Penang Countryside Tour

Itinerary

We start the tour with a drive through the northern part of Penang island taking in scenic views of the sea and the surrounding hills. The first stop is at the fishing village of Teluk Bahang where fishing boats, big and small, unload their catch. Wander about this idyllic setting, framed by the hills and greenery of Penang National Park and the seascape. Next, a visit to a Batik factory to witness how a piece of white cloth can be transformed using prints of different designs and motifs into a work of art. The more intricate designs are drawn free hand with the result that no two pieces are the same or duplicated.

The drive continues through the forest covered hills containing local orchards of exotic tropical fruits and products. These include nutmeg and cloves as well as seasonal fruits such as durian, rambutan, mangosteen and cempedak (jackfruit). A stop at one of the fruit and spice stalls provides a chance to get a closer look at some of the spices and sample some of the in-season fruit. Continue on to a Malay village to experience the relaxed pace of life in a traditional community. Find out why their houses are built above the ground and sample the savoury offerings of the local markets. A final stop on the tour will be at the Snake Temple, famous for providing refuge to snakes. Before ending the tour, a view of the two iconic bridges in Penang.