Get your rocks off at Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang
Pearl of the Orient cultured by colonial and Chinese heritage.
Penang's sprawling main centre, Georgetown, boasts impressive colonial architecture, temples, lively Chinese culture, great shopping and even better food. Steeped in history, with an appealing old-fashioned character that's fast disappearing, it attracts most of the island's tourists.
A circuit of Penang will take you through a landscape of jungle, farmland and fishing villages. The north coast beaches are easily accessible and the new national park is on the northwest headland. Don't miss charming Penang Hill or the Kek Lok Si Temple - the largest Buddhist shrine in the country.
Local key maker makes the most of a quiet moment, Georgetown
Penang's many old colonial buildings are characteristic of its 1786 British settlement
Forget cornflakes, laksa is the breakfast of choice for this Georgetown woman
Happy Buddha enjoys a good belly rub - Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang
