Top Attractions in Penang Hill
Penang Hill or Bukit Bendera in Malay, is a hill resort and one of the most visited attractions in Penang. It is the highest hill in Penang and stands at 833 metres (2,733 feet) above sea level. During the British colonial period, it is used as their base for retreat. With fabulous panoramic views of Penang, lush greenery and an abundance of heritage sites, Penang Hill is one of the places not to be missed on your trip to Penang. If this is your first trip to the Penang Hill, you may find out more information about purchasing tickets, operation hours, ticket prices and general information from Penang Hill’s website. Here are some of the major attractions in Penang Hill you must visit.
1. The Habitat Penang Hill
Closer to us, the Penang Hill virgin jungle reserve area, on the fringe of which The Habitat sits, is believed to be part of Malaysia’s treasure trove of prehistoric rainforests dating back 130-million years old. Besides its rich biodiversity, it plays an important role as primary water catchment area for Penang island.
The Habitat Penang Hill provides the most authentic, diverse and educational Malaysian rainforest experience. Reconnect with nature in its purest form as you immerse yourself in our 130-million year old rainforest. Starting at the forest floor, their Naturalists will take you on a journey along our Nature Trail to explore the myriad of flora and fauna – plants, trees, insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals that call The Habitat home. Explore the biodiversity of the rainforest canopy on our 230m Langur Way Canopy Walk. Visit Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk at the top of Penang Hill, and embrace the 360-degree panoramic views of Penang Island from the highest viewing point of Penang. End your day spectacularly with the most amazing sunset view overlooking the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk.
Website: thehabitat.my
2. Breathtaking Panoramic Views of Penang
You’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the best panoramic view of Penang while you are there. With a total of 6 peaks and the highest standing impressively at 833 meters (2733 ft) above sea level, Penang Hill features the best lookouts in Penang, offering panoramic views of the island and mainland.
Rise early and catch the first train up the Hill and you will be rewarded with a magnificent glimpse of the sunrise on clear days or feel the cotton-like mist floating in the air on colder days. The Sky Walk and Viewing Decks offer a spectacular 180 degrees view of George Town with senior citizen and physically-impaired friendly features in fulfilling their accessibility needs
3. Heritage Buildings
With the oldest building (Convalescent Bungalow) dated to 1803 , Penang Hill is a good repository of bungalows featuring a fusion of architecture from British colonial to Asian and modern architecture.
Bel Retiro is a government bungalow on Penang Hill. It was built in 1789 for the Governor of Penang, and remains within the exclusive use of the government. It is the most prestigious property on Penang Hill, built in the 1800s as a resort for high govenment officials and visiting dignitaries. Bel Retiro Bungalow was the favourite retreat of the first Yang di-Pertuan Agung (King) and Tunku Abdul Rahman (Prime Minister) whenever they visit Penang. Senior government officers built their bungalows close to Bel Retiro, on the principle of closeness is next to greatness. Although the bungalow itself is out-of-bounds to the general public, one can hike up to its gate, a beautiful brick structure with an arch entranceway called the Gate House, for a nice photo opportunity.
4. Food & Beverages
After taking in all the spectacular views and working up a sweat, you will want to take a break and refresh. Fret not, you will be spoilt for choices here with plenty of food and beverages on offer from fancy restaurant dining to Penang street food.
David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace
Tucked away in the corner of Penang’s iconic Penang Hill lies David Brown’s at Strawberry Hill, a quintessential British colonial Restaurant and Tea Terrace which also happens to be the highest restaurant in Penang. Hidden between lush greenery, this hidden gem sitting on a ‘hill upon a hill’ atop Strawberry Hill is the perfect setting to create meaningful memories with your loved ones – be it a wedding between lovebirds, a party to showcase your lifestyle or just to hang out with loved ones, friends and family.
David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terraces, Strawberry Hill, Penang Hill, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +604-828 8337 / 018-409 6277
Email: st.penanghill@gmail.com
Website: www.penanghillco.com.my
David Brown’s Sky Terrace
While you are at Penang Hill, why not take this opportunity to sample some cocktail at the highest bar in Penang. With its raised cantilevered deck and beautiful wooden patio, David Brown’s Sky Terrace provides the perfect space for you to enjoy Happy Hours in the company of good friends overlooking breathtaking views of Penang.
Cliff Cafe / Astaka Bukit Bendera
Cliff Cafe or Astaka Bukit Bendera is a three-storey food and beverage centre in Penang Hill. The view is particularly beautiful at night, when the city lights up.Cliff Cafe became operational January 2012. The two higher levels houses the food court, with food stalls on the upper level and souvenir stalls and drinks stalls on the lower level. Stop by to sample some of the famous Penang street food such as Penang Asam Laksa, Chendol, Ice Kacang and more.
Kopi Hutan
Kopi Hutan is the highest cafe in Penang. Tucked away in Penang famous tourist spot, Monkey Cup Garden at Penang Hill. Kopi Hutan is managed by Monkey Cup Garden. Kopi Hutan is about 730 meters above sea level, according to the owner, which so happens to be the highest cafe in Penang. Kopi refers to coffee and Hutan refers to the forest in malay. Now that’s what we call bringing our coffee to another level.
