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ENCHANTING
Penang Hill
Malaysia’s oldest hill resort, situated on the island of Penang, beckons with a nostalgic charm. Set amidst a backdrop of history, heritage and cultural legacy, this hill resort offers a memorable experience with a funicular train ride, astounding natural fauna and buildings reminiscent of an era gone by. Situated facing the Straits of Malacca, Penang Hill is an enchanting getaway with lofty trees and sweeping views of the land and sea. Penang Hill is also known as Bukit Bendera in the local language, referring to the most developed peak in the group of hills. It stands at 735m above sea level.
Contact Info
Perbadanan Bukit Bendera Pulau Pinang, Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera 11500 Air Itam, Penang
- Tel: 604 828 8880
- E-Mail: penanghill.gov.my
The Habitat Penang Hill Bukit Bendera 11300 Penang
- Tel: 6019 645 7741
At the foot of the hill is the Penang Hill Railway, one of the world’s oldest funicular systems. It is also the only one-of-its-kind in the country. The original funicular system was officiated in 1924 by Sir LN Guillemard, the then Governor of the Straits Settlement. The current fourth generation system (commissioned in 2011) is the fastest, steepest and longest funicular in the region, spanning 2km. Complete with air-conditioning, the new coaches take visitors to the top in just about 4.5 minutes. Enjoy the lovely views of lush vegetation and small animals along the way. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of Penang Island. On a clear sunny day, the entire eastern half of the island and the mainland as well as the Straits of Malacca can be seen. Spend some time enjoying the view, have a cuppa at the food court and don’t miss the chance to take a look at the original first generation funicular train which is on exhibit here.
Lovers of architecture will have an interesting time observing the bungalows on Penang Hill. Featuring a fusion of styles from British colonial to Asian and modern design, these buildings are a sight to behold. Most of the original Victorian-style buildings too have stood the test of time because of the hardy materials used in their construction. Among these, is the Convalescent Bungalow (dated to 1803), touted to be the oldest building on Penang Hill.
Built in 1789, Bel Retiro is another noteworthy building. Originally built for the Governor of Penang, this is the most prestigious property on Penang Hill and served as a retreat for high-ranking government officials and visiting dignitaries. Although it is not accessible to the public, visitors can hike up to the main gate for selfies and Insta-worthy photographs.
The Bellevue Hotel, the only remaining hotel on the hill, offers magnificent views of the island. About 100m away, the Dinosaur and Aviary Garden is a fun place that stirs the imagination with its prehistoric setting. The Hillside Retreat is a century-old bungalow that offers accommodation facilities.
Penang Hill is an environmentally rich site with numerous plant and animal species. The most common forest type found on Penang Hill is the hill dipterocarp forest. At the higher altitudes, submontane oak-laurels as well as coniferous trees and tree ferns can be found.
A unique feature here is that Penang Hill has a number of endemic species, including rare and endangered varieties of herbs and plants. These include the parasitic plant Exorhopalia ruficeps, the Penang Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum barbatum) and the endangered witch hazel Maingaya malayana.
The lush greenery is also home to small and medium-sized animals such as squirrels, monkeys, wild boars and nocturnal species including civets, flying lemurs, flying civets and bats. There are no large mammals on the hill. Lucky visitors can expect to catch sight of the Dusky Leaf Monkey, Black Giant Squirrel and Greater Racked-Tailed Drongo in the tropical rainforest. Penang Hill also has a rich variety of birdlife. Over 100 species or about 80% of the birds found on Penang Island have been recorded here. To view a great collection of pitcher plants, visit the Monkey Cup Garden which has a collection of species from Malaysia, Indonesia, Madagascar and Brazil.
Staying true to Penang’s reputation as a food paradise, Penang Hill serves an interesting platter of all the state’s favourites. If you fancy a cup of tea amid the hilly surroundings, try the David Brown’s at Strawberry Hill, a quintessential British colonial Restaurant and Tea Terrace which has the distinction of being the highest restaurant in Penang. Here, you can savour delectable English cuisine in an old-world ambience. The charming restaurant is located about 30m from the upper station.
To soak up the jungle setting, stop by at the much-loved Kopi Hutan café. Tucked away at the Monkey Cup Garden, this hidden gem dishes out delicious cakes and drinks to keep you refreshed. Astaka Bukit Bendera or Cliff Café is the place to try out various local items. But that is not all, there is a wide variety of food and snacks to try out before you leave!
The Habitat Penang Hill is a must-visit new eco-tourism site on Penang Hill. The first-of-its-kind in Malaysia, The Habitat Penang Hill boasts magical views and superb attractions and has the ideal setting for a comprehensive understanding of the Malaysian rainforest. Enjoy a thrilling time at the 13m Curtin Crest Tree Top Walk – the highest public viewing point on the island. For an unobstructed view of the virgin jungle canopy, stroll along the Langur Way Canopy Walk which spans three headlands and two valleys. There are also nature trails that take you across themed gardens for an insight into various plant species. Take a deep breath and get ready for some rainforest adventure at the Flight of the Colugo zip, which comprises five ziplines, an abseil and a rope bridge.
Penang is about four hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North South Expressway. Penang Hill is located in Ayer Itam, about 6km from George Town city centre. The easiest way to get to the hilltop is by hopping on the iconic Funicular Train. Visitors can drive up, or take the Hop On Hop Off bus, or a taxi/e-hailing ride to the Penang Hill Lower Station.
Tips
For safety reasons, you are advised to inform the Forestry Department if you plan to go jungle trekking . You may also want to carry a light jacket or an umbrella as there may be sudden showers at the top of the hill.
