The western coast islands, less popular than the those on the oriental coast, will delight the visitors who venture there. Easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur, they present a diversity of landscapes and auras as well as a rich cultural heritage.

In search of the west coast islands

Malaysia is a surprising country in every way. And the cluster of lakes linked to one another that go by the name of Tasik Chini will definitely live up to expectations! If this is not the case, then maybe the lake's monster will leave you speechless; rumour has it that it haunts the depths!

Tasik Chini legends

Asia

Malaysia is composed of two islands, located 700 km from each other: a peninsular island, which shares its northern border with Thailand, and an eastern island, which neighbours Indonesia. On one side, the energetic and structured capital of Kuala Lumpur boasts skyscrapers as far as the eye can see, at its head the impressive Petronas towers, a typical Chinese quarter and an upturn in economic activity. On the other hand, the country is overflowing with heavenly islands, tropical beaches, and villages full of fish, exotic flora and fauna. Malaysia is also a joyful melting pot of origins and religions. Muslims, Buddhists, Taoists, Hindus and Christians share the country and offer an enchanting diversity of temples and cultural sites. This also makes for an extremely rich culinary culture, which is unanimously praised by visitors.

Malaysia

Frasers hill

Trek and hiking fans will love Cameron Highlands' blend of sport and nature. The smell of tea impregnates the countryside and the forests are full of surprises.

Cameron Highlands

The Belum forest reserve is a fabulous place in Malaysia.

Belum

 As well as being the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is one of Asia's hubs. It is a modern town surrounded by oil palms where you should spend several days.

Kuala Lumpur

A little island off the northeastern Malaysian peninsula, Penang will feast your eyes as well as your stomach.

Penang

Kazakhstan

Taiwan

Tajikistan

Turkmenistan

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

Penang, a little island that's reached by a bridge, will appeal to all travellers on <a href="/malaysia/">holiday in Malaysia</a>! Even though it's accessible by train, bus and car, arriving by plane offers spectacular views of the island and its surrounds. The island's small, so you can easily explore it by car or public transport. A trip to the beaches at Batu Ferringhi, as well as the night market, will give you a wonderful taste of Malaysian life and makes the island perfect for a romantic getaway. Close by is Georgetown, the island's capital. You'll love strolling through its old town, where brightly coloured, colonial houses line the streets! I set out to find the numerous murals that are dotted around town; it's a great way to explore the area whilst have fun at the same time. Finally, no trip to Penang would be complete without sampling some local dishes! Malasia's renowned for its electic character, which is reflected in its cuisine. There are lots of street stalls where you can pick up oriental dishes that blend Indian, Thai and Malaysian flavours. It's a mouthwatering delight! Make sure you try some Cendol when you're in Georgetown. This traditional favourite is a creamy dessert of red beans and brown sugar on a bed of crushed ice. The best place to find some is on Penang Road - you'll easily spot the stand, thanks to the permanent queues!

Of course when coming to Penang, you must not miss out a visit to <a href="/malaysia/"> Georgetown </a>, my favourite Malaysian city. It has one of the most beautiful colonial architecture heritages in Southeast Asia and its old centre is listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. I also suggest you visit Kek Lok Si temple, one of the biggest in Southeast Asia and a symbol of the country. The rest of Penang island is hardly visited, at least by European tourists, but reserves some good surprises like many near-deserted beaches and numerous fishing villages. Several ecotourist initiatives exist on the island that make it possible to stay with the inhabitants and take part in local life. Penang guarantees a journey off the beaten track.

Ancient spice route trading post, Penang has long fascinated travellers. This little island located in the Strait of Malacca is really a place apart in Malaysia.

I spent several days on Penang Island when I was in Malaysia. The capital, <a href="/malaysia/holidays/places/17041-george-town/">George Town</a>, has many cultural sites to visit, such as <a href="/malaysia/">the Kek Lok Si Temple</a> and the Kapitan Keling Mosque, and there are interesting places to eat to be found in the island's Little India and Chinatown districts. There are also beaches on Penang (e.g. Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang), though I didn't find them to be amongst the most beautiful in Malaysia. Due to the effects of local industries on the natural environment here, the water is quite dark and dirty. It's a real shame. In fact, it's for this reason that I actually preferred both Pangkor Island and the Perhentian Islands to Penang.

Penang is an island located off the northwest coast of Malaysia.

Penang Vacations

Penang: How to get there?

Penang: See when to go ?

Penang: For how long?

Penang: What to see nearby?

Malaysia: our articles for your vacations