Penang - Pearl of the Orient

The Pearl of the Orient comprises of the island of Penang, which lies off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, and Seberang Perai on the mainland. They are linked by the Penang Bridge and a cross-channel ferry service.

The places and things of interest which I've experienced are:-

(Left) Kek Lok Si Temple ~ Reputed to be the biggest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, the temple stands majestically on a hill in Air Itam. It boasts the beautiful "Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas" which blends Chinese, Myanmarese and Thai architecture.

(Right) Snake Temple ~ Built in 1850 and dedicated to the deity, Chor Soo Kong. It is a sanctuary for pit vipers said to be 'servants' of the deity. These venomous snakes, seen coiled around the pillars, beams and potted plants within the temples are believed to be rendered harmless by the smoke of the burning incense. By paying an amount, visitors can take photo with the snakes crawling on their body.

Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram ~ A unique Buddhist temple with Thai, Myanmarese and Chinese architecture, it houses a 33-metre gold-plated reclining Buddha said to be one of the longest in the world. The niches behind the statue house urns contain the ashes of devotees.

(Left) Dharmikarama Burmese Temple ~ A pair of elephants guards the entrance to this Burmese temple. Within the pagoda grounds are a Bodhi tree and wishing pond. It is a venue for many celebrations held during the water festival in April.

(Right) Trishaws Ride ~ A one hour Trishaw ride in Penang. As I took this picture, so I don't have a 'Trishaw Ride picture' ...... oh..... so sad!!

For those who loves night shopping, well..... Batu Ferringhi Sidewalk Bazaar is the place for you! After sunset, the Batu Ferringhi sidewalk transforms into a bazaar where traders from all over the island set up their stalls. Like the night market, everything from food, clothing, batik, watches, pens and fashion accessories are sold here and bargaining is the order of the day.

For food enthusiasts, Gurney Drive is famous for hawker foodstalls and restaurants offering a mouth-watering selection of Penang specialities such as Asam Laksa, Hokkien Mee, Chee Cheong Fun, Pasembor, Rojak and various other delicious local delicacies.

Penang is a beautiful & unique place, so make it your next holiday destination (if you haven't been there).......