George Town Heritage Tour
Peninsular Malaysia

George Town Heritage Tour

Price from MYR 210 per person
Duration 5 hours
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Itinerary

Discover Penang’s colourful history and the origins of its ethnic diversity on this tour of the key heritage sites. Penang was established by Francis Light in 1786 as a base for the British East India Company. Fort Cornwallis was the original capital of the settlements until later when the city inland. The fort’s commanding position with cannon pointing seaward provides a photo-stop. To assist with the establishment of Penang, Light brought in many labourers from India and they were soon followed by shopkeepers – resulting in present-day Little India. At the same time, due to unrest in their country, Chinese seaman and traders set up trade with Penang establishing Clan Jetties. These became the early entry points for the newly arrived Chinese and the Khoo Kongsi is an example. A Kongsi is an ancestral temple built by a particular clan and the newly arrived migrants were required to register themselves at their respective clan Kongsi’s. Today, these kongsis are used for different purposes, while providing a glimpse of the past. The richness of Penang can also be seen in the elaborate buildings that have been preserved until today. The Peranakan Museum provides and excellent example of one such place, formerly the home of a wealthy Chinese merchant. These business men were mainly involved in business and trade with the British companies in the early 19th century.

Prior establishing Penang, Francis Light lived in Thailand and the links between Penang and this country are still evident today. There has long been active movement and trade between the two countries and many from Thailand have settled on Penang. Within the vicinity of the Thai community dwellings can be found the temple of Watchayamangkalaram, which one of the longest Reclining Buddhas in the world.

Trip Notes

Includes

Entrance fee to Peranakan Museum, Khoo Kongsi and English speaking guide

Minimum

2 adults per order

Note

Pick up from your hotel at 9.00 am.

If you have a group or family please contact us for reduced prices.

These tours operate on the principle that you may be in a small group of other people.

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