Penang’s list of attractions includes beaches, nature parks, temples, mosques and forts. Many of the interesting historical sights are found in a relatively small urban area, while natural features such as beaches, reserves and hills are located in various parts of the island.

Beaches
The beaches of Penang are undoubtedly the main attraction. The best known of all the island beaches is Batu Ferringhi. This long stretch of sandy beach with its tranquil waters is a great spot for relaxing, sun bathing and water sports. Other beaches along the same shoreline include Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang, where you’ll find upscale resorts offering the best in accommodation, meals and facilities. In more secluded areas of the island you’ll encounter smaller, more private beaches if you’re willing to make your way through trails in the jungle to reach them. Among the more secluded spots are Monkey Beach, Pantai Mas and Teluk Duyung.

Fort Cornwallis
The fort was constructed at the site of Captain Francis Light’s landing at Penang in 1786. Originally built as a wooden stockade, it was replaced with a concrete structure in 1804. Today visitors to this attraction will find an open-air amphitheatre, a gallery of historic displays, and a handicraft and souvenir centre on site. An important feature is the famous Dutch cannons that have been associated with every shift in power on the peninsula since the early 1600s: the cannons were a gift from the Dutch to the Sultan of Johor in 1606.

Khoo Kongsi
When the Chinese arrived in the immigration surge during the 19^th century, they formed clans, or kongsi. These clans provided a support system and substitute for the family, friends and business associates left behind. The Khoo Kongsi is the most well-known example of a hall built by an immigrant association, and was designed with the grandeur to rival a palace of a Chinese emperor.

Kuan Yin Temple
This temple was built in honour of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, and is the oldest standing temple in Penang. Hokkien and Cantonese settlers built the Kuan Yin Temple in 1800, reflecting ancient Chinese styles. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and dragons sculpted from stone, which are said to guard the temple site.

Snake Temple
This is likely the only temple of its kind that you’ll find anywhere in the world. The mass of pit vipers that are coiled around the altar’s pillars are said to be rendered harmless by the incense that perennially burns here. To make sure of this, however, all the snakes have had their venom removed. Even with this precaution, only the brave enter this temple.

Sri Mariamman Temple
Penang’s oldest Hindu temple was built in 1883, and features elaborate sculptures of gods and goddesses on its façade and over its main entrance. The interior of the temple is richly decorated, and houses a priceless gold and silver statue of Lord Subramaniam, which is embellished with diamonds and emeralds. During the annual Thaipusam Festival, this statue is carried through the city streets on a silver chariot.

Bukit Mertajam Recreational Park. This popular park covering a wide expanse of hilly terrain is located approximately 11 miles (18kms) from the ferry terminal at Butterworth. The hills are high enough to enjoy cooler temperatures, and you’ll see wildflowers and ferns that are not present at lower elevations as well as exotic birds and butterflies. For those interested in hiking, numerous tracks take you into the heart of the jungle.

Penang Hill. On Penang Hill you’ll have a respite from the heat in Georgetown. The hill rises over 88 metres above the sea, and can be climbed in a moderately-strenuous four-hour hike. Alternatively, a funicular railway makes the ascent in a much shorter time. However you reach the summit you’ll have a spectacular view of the city and the coastal areas once you’re there.

See one of the largest Buddha images in the world. This ornate Buddhist temple built in the Thai architectural style is known as Wat Chayamangkalaram. It houses a wonderful gold-plated image of the Buddha in a reclining position, reputed to be the world’s third-largest image of its type.

Shop at night at Batu Ferringhi. Every evening along Batu Ferringhi’s coast markets are set up, opening around 19:00 or 20:00 and closing between 23:00 and 01:00. You can find all sorts of merchandise on offer at very good value - providing you’re willing to haggle over the prices. Clothing, cushion covers, DVDs, handbags, jewellery, luggage, sarongs, sunglasses and souvenirs are among the items you’ll find on sale.

Take an outing to the Orchid and Hibiscus Garden. The park at Bukit Jambul features a reptile farm in addition to hibiscus and orchid gardens. Attractions of note here also include a cactus garden, deer park, ornamental Japanese pond and several waterfalls. There’s a pottery corner on site as well, with interesting locally-crafted items for sale.

Visit the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. Kek Lok Si is also widely-known for its architectural style that incorporates elements of Burmese, Chinese and Thai styles. The temple complex is dominated by the seven-tiered pagoda known as Ban Po Thar, constructed in honour of the Boddhisattva Tsi Tsuang Wang. The Boddhisattva chose to not enter Nirvana upon enlightenment so that he might assist others on their path.