Print this article if you're a tour operator, accommodation provider or touristLocation & History
Georgetown lies on the west coast of the Malaysian peninsular and is the capital of the state and island of Penang. Listed by UNESCO in 2008 as a World Heritage Site, it boasts some of the most prominent monuments and interesting venues in Penang, as well as being one of the largest and most populated cities in Malaysia.
Georgetown was once one of the trading posts for the East India Company and part of the three Straits Settlements, which included Singapore and Malacca. This status attracted many settlers from various nations and religions causing the population to increase dramatically during the 18th century. This historical past paved the way to the architectural sites that can be seen throughout the city nowadays, offering diverse styles and origins. The tight-knitted city centre of alley ways and narrow streets depict a past of peaceful religious co-habitation and cultural exchanges, which has left impressive vestiges for tourists to visit and admire.
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A stunning yet tranquil view from one of Georgetown's most esteemed hotels and MalaysiaExplorer.net's recommended top-pick - the Evergreen Laurel (pictured) |
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Getting there & Transport
The best way to get to Georgetown is by air, arriving at the newly modernized Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport only 30 minutes from Georgetown. There is always a wide range of both domestic and international flight deals for journeys to-and-from various destinations in South-East Asia, as this is one of the better-equipped airports in Malaysia. Travelers can get to the center of Georgetown either by bus, which leaves the airport every thirty minutes, or by taxi, taking into account that the taxi fares can be rather doubtful, especially in peak tourism seasons. The airport is also home to a good range of rental car choices for those who wish to traverse the island with greater freedom.
Things to see & do: Fort Cornwallis and more
There is plenty of sightseeing for those visiting Georgetown with monuments reflecting the passage of the colonial period and others that are testimonials of religious zeal. One of the most renowned monuments is the Fort Cornwallis and the Sri Rambai Cannon, first built in 1786 by Captain Francis Light and reconstructed twenty years later to form an impressive fort. Within the fort there are now art and history exhibitions as well as a handicraft and a souvenir shop.
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An interesting site to visit is the Victoria Memorial Clock Tower, donated to Queen Victoria in 1897 by a rich Penang citizen to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. A curious trait of the clock tower is that it tilts slightly due to the bombs that landed on the King Edward Place during World War II.
The Khoo Kongsi Clan House is another impressive example of Chinese architecture, boasting fine craftsmanship and decorative traits. Built in 1906 this masterpiece of architecture is definitely one of the most artfully sculptured examples of Chinese art you can find in Malaysia.
Mosques, Temples & Museums
The religious monuments Georgetown offers are key to its tourism appeal: attracting inquisitive travelers in quest of culture and history abroad. Amongst the most striking are the Muslim Kapitan Kling Mosque, the Hindu Maha Mariamman Temple and the Taoist Goddess of Mercy Temple. Although these religious monuments were not built by the same people, they were all constructed at the beginning of the 19th century, and today, still stand in all their glory. All three sites are not to be missed for their majestic architectural design, impressive statues and pieces of art.
Visitors will soon realize that Georgetown is in fact an open air museum, with its impressive colonial style buildings, maze of narrow streets bordered by tumbledown shops still selling ancient trade wares, such as joss-sticks, rattan and wood carved objects. A stroll through the town center will take the traveler back a few centuries and then into modern times again looking towards the backdrop of Georgetown's gleaming skyscrapers.
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Shopping
Shopping sprees are fun in Georgetown as the city offers an abundance of shopping centers and commerce-lined streets. Those keen on some retail therapy will find all they need in the city's shops as well as the bustling market.
Beaches
There are also some beautiful beaches nearby namely the popular Batu Ferringhi or Teluk Bahang, a quieter beach to the west of the city.
Dining
Being a melting pot of different cultures, Georgetown boasts restaurants that are famous for their delicious and diverse menus. One of the city's specialties is the Asam Laksa, a plate of sour noodles with mixed spices. Penang Cha Kuay, a Penang style fried rice noodle, Prawn Noodle and other fresh seafood dishes are also popular with the locals and the practiced travelers.
Accommodation varies from low budget hotels to deluxe resorts and one can find good priced lodgings just steps from the major city sights and venues. You can search the widest range of accommodation options and resorts in Georgetown with MalaysiaExplorer.net's booking partner - also find verified guest reviews™ and image galleries.
Complete your trip with our travel essentials checklist: Tours, Flights and Car Rental
- Tailor all aspects of your holiday or visit to Georgetown with comprehensive tour and package choices.
- Read our top tips on car rental to ensure you choose a suitable vehicle at a good price.
- Our guide to Malaysia flights is packed with advice and pointers on finding the best routes and super deals.
Double click the map below to zoom in on Georgetown, and double right-click to zoom out!
Photo Credits: krismartis, jeeheon and schristia.
