Penang: Hilltop Views, Temples & George Town by Trishaw | Malaysia

If you want to understand Penang in a limited amount of time, DIscova's newest Penang Tour offers a balanced overview: from hilltop viewpoints and active places of worship to everyday local life and the lively neighbourhoods of George Town.

Your day begins with hotel pick-up and a ride on the Penang Hill funicular, with Fast Lane tickets included for smoother access during peak periods. At the top, enjoy free time to explore and take in panoramic views over the island and mainland. Continue to Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complexes, where a licensed local guide introduces its pagodas, statues, and hillside gardens before allowing time to explore independently.

Next, sample Penang’s famous assam laksa at a trusted local eatery. Ranked No. 7 on CNN’s World’s Best Foods list, this iconic dish is a bold, sour fish-based noodle soup flavoured with tamarindnand fresh herbs. After lunch, sit back for a scenic drive along the Gurney Drive waterfront and into George Town’s colonial quarter. Along the way, pass key reminders of Penang’s British past, including the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, St. George’s Church, the Padang, and Fort Cornwallis, before continuing toward the historic waterfront communities.

Discova's heritage walk begins at the Chew Jetty area, one of Penang’s remaining clan jetties where families still live in stilted homes built over the water. From here, step into the historic core of George Town, walking through heritage streets and visiting landmarks such as the beautifully ornate Khoo Kongsi clan temple. Free time along Chulia Street allows you to walk the lanes in search of George Town’s best-known street art, tucked into shopfronts and side alleys.

Later, enjoy a relaxing trishaw ride through George Town’s old quarters, passing the Street of Harmony, Little India, once associated with brothels, and opium dens. The ride ends at the Peranakan Mansion, an elegant former residence showcasing the lifestyle and craftsmanship of the ultra-rich Straits Chinese community. Discova's Penang Island Tour concludes at the mansion where you may choose to visit the museum independently or continue exploring George Town at your own pace.

Dietary Notice: Assam Laksa is a non-vegetarian dish and is prepared according to its traditional recipe. Ingredient substitutions or replacements are not available.