Anastasia Smith
The capital of Penang, Georgetown, has a diverse array of attractions to suit all travellers. From Chinese shophouses to street art to heritage buildings, there’s a lot to explore.
An important Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Loki Temple is a must-visit to witness the harmonious coexistence of different Buddhist sects. Its significance extends beyond the Malaysian borders, which is evident from the diverse tourist groups visiting the temples. It’s one of the most important religious sites for Buddhists from Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, and other Southeast Asian regions. The temple features a blend of architectural styles of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese origins. The Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, a seven-story pagoda, is a noteworthy feature of the temple. Inside the pagoda is a vast collection of alabaster and bronze Buddhas. The pagoda is also a viewpoint that brings panoramic views from across the island. Liberation Pond is another highlight. There are hundreds of turtles living in the pond, which are considered symbols of longevity. The temple also hosts various religious festivals; the temple is particularly lovely during the Chinese New Year.
Georgetown is home to an array of historical tokens that speak of its colonial past. One such token is the Fort Cornwallis. It was built by the British in the 19th century. The fort was built for protection against pirates and foreign armies. It was also an important administrative centre during the British rule. Even though the fort was built to protect the island against enemies, it never had occasion to engage in battle. It has the typical star shape, which was common for European forts built at the time. Today, the fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Penang, visited by hundreds to discover its significance as a historical site and appreciate its architectural value. The fort is located only 6 minutes from Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang, a provider of serviced apartments in Penang.
Georgetown’s street art scene is one of the biggest draws for tourists. It attracts art lovers from around the world. Th art scene gained worldwide attention during George Town Festival in 2012. Ernest Zacharevic's murals stand out among the rest. His works like Little Children on a Bicycle and Boy on a Motorbike are particularly famous. If you’re interested in exploring the street art scene further, consider joining a guided street art tour. There are several on offer with varying durations.
Its striking Indigo blue colour is hard to miss. The Blue Mansion, also known as Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, is one of well-preserved heritage buildings in Penang today. Its architecture is the coming together of Eastern and Western design elements. The mansion was built in the 19th century by Cheong Fatt Tze, a wealthy Chinese businessman and a community leader. In the 1990s, the building was restored to preserve its former glory. It has won accolades and awards for its cultural and historical significance. You can visit the blue mansion, and there are guided tours on offer. The mansion also serves as a boutique hotel.
These are prominent landmarks that offer you a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Chinese diaspora in Malaysia. These clan houses were built by the Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia in the 18th and 19th centuries. They were not only communal residence but also hubs of social, economic, and spiritual activities. The architecture of these houses is noteworthy, with their embellished roofs, colourful facades, and intricate carvings. Step inside these clan houses, and you’ll discover courtyards, meeting rooms, altars, and communal halls. Each clan house is typically associated with a particular Chinese group or family. These places were originally established to provide support for new Chinese immigrants and create a sense of community in a foreign land.
