10 Things to Do at Penang Hill: A Travellers' Guide

Penang Hill, known locally as Bukit Bendera, is a renowned landmark on Penang Island, Malaysia. Rising 833 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramas of George Town, lush landscapes, and even the mainland, seamlessly blending natural beauty with historical charm and modern attractions.

A Glimpse into Penang Hill History

Initially a retreat for British colonial officers seeking respite from the tropical heat, Penang Hill boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Sir Francis Light, the founder of Penang, recognized its potential as a cool hill station. Over time, it evolved into a haven for both the British and affluent locals, with numerous historical bungalows and guesthouses still gracing the landscape.

In 2021, Penang Hill achieved the prestigious status of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, acknowledging its exceptional biodiversity and commitment to environmental conservation.

The Funicular Railway: A Scenic Journey

The iconic Penang Hill Funicular Railway, dating back to the early 20th century, provides convenient access to the summit. While the original system required a mid-journey transfer, a modern, single-section funicular system now ensures a smooth and efficient ascent. This train takes you 800m up/down to/from Penang Hill and offers great views looking down on George Town and across to the mainland.

The views from the top were absolutely stunning, with the whole island and beautiful skyline all around.

Funicular Train Operation Details

• Funicular Service Hours: Daily, from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
• Ticket Counters Opening: 6:16 AM to 9:45 PM
• Frequency: Trains depart every 15-30 minutes, adjusting based on demand.
• Ticket Prices: Funicular Train Two-way ticket access vary based on nationality, age, and travel lane (normal or fast)
  • Malaysia Citizen (MyKad/MyKid/MM2H/i-Kad)
    • Adult (Normal Lane): RM8 (One-way ticket), RM16 (Return ticket) 
    • Adult (Express Lane): RM25 (One-way ticket), RM40 (Return ticket)
    • Children: Normal Lane RM8, Express Lane RM20
    • Senior Citizen: Normal Lane and Express Lane, RM8
    • People with Disability: FREE
  • Standard Ticket
    • Adult (Normal Lane): RM15 (One-way ticket), RM30 (Return ticket)
    • Adult (Express Lane): RM40 (One-way ticket), RM80 (Return ticket)
    • Children: Normal Lane RM15, Express Lane RM40
    • Senior Citizen: Normal Lane RM30, Express Lane RM60
  • For latest tickets pricing, refer here. 
• Fast Lane Tickets offer priority boarding, ideal for avoiding long queues during peak hours.
• Last trip from the Lower Station to the Upper Station (Penang Hill Station) is at 10.00pm.
• Last trip from the Upper Station (Penang Hill Station) to the lower station is at 11.00pm.
• The funicular runs on a half-hourly basis, and additional trips will be run if necessary.

Address:  Penang Hill Lower Station 11500 Bukit Bendera, Penang

Penang Funicular Train FAQs

How long is the waiting time after purchasing the funicular train ticket? 

The waiting time can be around 30 minutes to 1 hour depends on the number of visitors, and the funicular ride takes about 3 minutes to reach the top of Penang Hill. The station itself has a few restaurants in case you want to grab a snack while waiting — just remember, no eating is allowed inside the cabin.

Can you buy Penang funicular train ticket online?

Yes, you can buy the ticket online at Penang Hill website. Online purchase must be made at least one day before your day of visit. 

Top Attractions on Penang Hill

Visiting Penang Hill and take up the funicular train to the attractions at the top is Highly recommended activity during a family trip to Penang. Here are some of the top attraction on Penang Hill you should know. 

1. The Habitat Penang Hill

Image source: Klook

A world-class eco-tourism site, The Habitat features a rainforest canopy walk and offers stunning views of the island's natural landscape and forested mountain. It’s a great spot for nature lovers, with its diversity of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and plants.The Habitat Penang Hill is an award-winning B Corp Certified rainforest discovery park nestled atop the storied Penang Hill, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy amazing views of Penang Island on the Curtis Crest Top Walk abd stroll along the longest canopy bridge, the Langur Way Canopy Walk.

You'll be able to spot nature of flora and fauna. The Habitat Penang Hill is famous nearing sunset hours as visitors would be able to spectate stunning sunset views form the Curtis Crest Top Walk.

Book The Habitat Penang Hill tickets with Penangbook today.

2. Penang Hill Mosque and Sri Aruloli Murugan Temple

Image Source: penanghill

Penang Hill is home to two significant religious sites. The Penang Hill Mosqu (Masjid Bukit Bendera), built in 1966, serves the Muslim community on the hill, while the Sri Aruloli Murugan Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Penang, caters to the Hindu devotees. Both offer serene environments and picturesque views.

3. David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terraces

Image Source: Penang Hill David Brown Restaurant

This colonial-era restaurant on top of Penang Hill offers a fine dining experience with stunning views. It’s named after David Brown, one of Penang’s early pioneers in agriculture, and serves traditional British cuisine along with local favorites. The atmosphere was charming-breezy, with a gentle wind that enhanced the relaxed, open-air dining experience. As you enjoy your meal, you can take in a stunning view of Penang city.

4. Bel Retiro Bungalow

Image Source: destimap

This is one of the oldest colonial bungalows on the hill, built by the British East India Company in the early 19th century as a retreat for British officers. Bel Retiro on Penang Hill is a historic mansion that once served as the residence of the Governor of Penang during the colonial era.

While not open to the public, it remains an important historical site and can be seen from a distance.

5. Monkey Cup Garden & Kopi Hutan

 Photo by Karli Connors at Kopi Hutan

Image Source: petitgo

Monkey Cup Garden

Located within the lush surroundings of Penang Hill, Monkey Cup Garden is a hidden cafe on the hill featuring carnivorous plants, particularly pitcher plants known locally as monkey cups. The garden blends botanical interest with nature, hosting a variety of pitcher plant species alongside tropical orchids. The cafe offers a peaceful, jungle-like retreat that appeals to plant enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. The garden has a small attached cafe where visitors can relax and enjoy light refreshments including local snacks, tea, and coffee amid scenic tropical forest views. It is accessible via the Penang Hill funicular train, and then a short walk and also popular among hikers in Penang Hill.

Kopi Hutan Cafe

Kopi Hutan, meaning "Forest Coffee," is the highest cafe in Penang, situated at about 833 meters above sea level on Penang Hill, nestled in a cool, shaded rainforest environment that gives guests a comfortable, natural dining experience.The cafe features rustic stone furniture and minimalist shelter areas, emphasizing immersion in nature with open-air seating surrounded by trees and forest sounds. Its menu highlights distinctive coffee blends including a special Forest Coffee made from roasted beans sourced from five countries, alongside Arabica and Saudi Arabian coffees. They also serve a variety of teas, fizzy fruit sodas, hot chocolate for kids, and light snacks such as sandwiches and cakes. Kopi Hutan is favored for its peaceful atmosphere, natural setting, and a place to relax away from urban crowds while enjoying quality coffee with forest ambiance.

6. Love Lock at Penang Hill

Image Source: iamsinyee

Inspired by similar installations around the world, the Love Lock area at Penang Hill invites couples to attach personalized padlocks to symbolize their unbreakable bond. It’s a romantic spot for visitors and offers scenic views.

Activities on Penang Hill 

1. Penang Hill Heritage Trails

For those who enjoy hiking, Penang Hill offers several trails that wind through the lush rainforest. These trails are rich with biodiversity and allow hikers to explore the island’s natural beauty up close. You can take the buggy car to avoid hiking RM30 per car then they will bring you go through the hiking road.  While hiking you can enjoy coffee and pastries at the Monkey Cup Garden and Kopi Hutan.

2. Astro Tourism and Stargazing 

Due to its elevation and relatively low light pollution, Penang Hill is an excellent spot for stargazing. The Penang Hill Corporation organizes periodic events where visitors can use telescopes to view celestial bodies. Penang Island looks amazing at night with its night breeze and city lightings. Enjoying the city views on top of Penang Hill is one of the best things to do in Penang at night.

3. Bird Watching 

Penang Hill is home to over 100 species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The cooler climate and preserved natural environment allow many endemic and migratory birds to thrive here.

4. Penang Hill Food Court

Enjoy eating at Penang Hill Food Alley at the upper station where you can find affordable food under RM20 with delicious desert and beverages like ais kacang, mango ice cream, smoothies and more! 

Conclusion

Penang Hill presents a captivating combination of history, nature, and modern attractions. Its colonial past and contemporary appeal as a tourist hotspot contribute to its enduring charm while introducing new experiences for visitors. Riding the historic funicular train, exploring the lush landscapes at The Habitat, or enjoying the panoramic views from the Skywalk all make Penang Hill a must-visit destination for those in search of both adventure and tranquility.

As one of Penang’s most unique attractions, Penang Hill offers valuable insights into the island’s history while also embracing its status as a modern tourist destination. Make the most of your destination to Penang Hill by renting car in Penang with Penangbook for a scenic drive around the island!