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Places & Descriptions
Kek Lok Si Temple
This seven-storey pagoda is situated at Air Itam.
It is the most stunning and largest Buddhist temple
complex in the South East Asia region. Built with
Chinese, Thai and Burmese influenced architecture;
the pagoda is 30 meters tall. Right behind the pagoda,
there is a gigantic statue of the goddess Kuan Yin
that is made out of bronze.
Penang Hill
The summit of Penang Hill is situated at 821 meters
above the sea. One way to reach to the top is by the
only cable railway in South East Asia. The ride up
the hill takes about 30 minutes but one may be rewarded
with a grand panoramic view at the top. There, luxuriate
yourself in the nice cool breeze and fresh air while
you grab yourself a meal at the cafeteria.
Penang Museum and Art
Gallery
Situated at Lebuh Farquhar, the Penang Museum holds
the key to Penang’s past. Amaze yourselves with its
collection of maps, charts, old photographs and other
historical relics. The few most noticeable artifacts
are definitely the old Penang Hill train and the statue
of Captain Francis Light.
St. George’s Church
Built in 1818 by convict labour, this Anglican Church
is located at Lebuh Farquhar. It is also one of the
oldest landmarks in the country. Look out for the
memorial canopy in memory of Captain Francis Light
at the entrance.
Sri Mariamman Temple
This magnificently built Indian temple is situated
at Lebuh Queen. Built in 1883, it is filled with statues
of deities and houses a priceless statue of Lord Subramaniam.
The statue itself is richly adorned with gold, silver
and emeralds. It is mainly used to lead a chariot
procession during the Thaipusam festival.
Bukit Jambul Orchid, Hibiscus
& Reptile Garden
Witness for yourself some of the most rarest reptiles
in the world. A tortoise of the world’s largest species,
which is over 100 years old. A deadly 15 feet King
Cobra. A very rare albino python. Not to forget, do
take a walk among the green gardens. Among the exotic
orchids and wild flowers, do not be surprised to see
swooping colorful Macaws and majestic Hornbills.
Snake Temple
Built in 1850 in memory of Chor Soo Kong, a Buddhist
priest who was believed to have possessed magical
healing powers. The temple is most famous for it’s
dwellers, the pit vipers. You can find them coiled
around the altar and other parts of the temple.
Khoo Kongsi
The Khoo Kongsi, a magnificent building modeled with
intricate carvings on its walls, pillars and roof.
The roof itself is a marvel on its own. The richly
decorated beam made from the finest wood and delicate
carvings by itself weighs 25 tonnes.
Kapitan Keling Mosque
Located at Jalan Kapitan Keling, the mosque is one
of the oldest in Penang. Built in the early 19th century
by an Indian Muslim merchant, Cauder Mohudeen, it
is a piece of Islamic architecture based on Moorish
influence.
Kuan Yin Teng Temple
The Temple of the Goddess of Mercy was built in 1800.
It is also the oldest temple in Penang. Everyday,
devotees burn joss sticks and offer prayers for health,
wealth, longevity and fertility. It is at its busiest
during the birthday of the Goddess, which is celebrated
on the 19th day of the second, sixth and ninth month
in the Chinese calendar.
Fort Cornwallis
This was the spot that Captain Francis Light first
landed on the island back in 1786. It was originally
a wooden stockade but was later constructed in bricks
in 1805. The major attraction is definitely the “Seri
Rambai” cannon. Do also look into the history gallery
and handicraft centre that is handsomely built inside
the fort as well.
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