Overview
This itinerary will inform and reinforce the reason to travel.
The magic of Malaysia cannot be described, only witnessed.
A fascinating fusion of the East and the West elevates Penang above other places. Modernity is ever present, yet it still retains its traditions and charm of the past. It is a multiracial population that blend beautifully--a lesson for all. Tehspot, where Sir Francis Light first stepped ashore in 1786, became Fort Cornwallis. It is the colonial core of Georgetown, now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the beginning of your tour. Here, you will have a view of the city and shoreline, and will hear some of the history that has supported the growth of this area.
Chew Jetty, an interesting name in itself, began as a wooden passageway and slowly developed into a cluster of houses perched above the sea on stilts above the ever-changing tides. It is a communal town locked into a time zone by itself, and the locals disregard the urban development that is taking place around it. It is an amazing walk through a living culture that refuses to change. The walk through this "village" unto itself is amazing, offering fabulous photo opportunities. as well as cultural interactions.
As you reboard and continue your drive along the south coast, you will view the Penang Bridge, the longest bridge in Southeast Asia. You are on your way to the Snake Temple, which is really the Ban Kah Lan Temple. Plenty of background here will bring you to the story of the pious monk who allowed snakes from the surrounding jungle to take shelter at the temple upon its completion. These Wagler's pit vipers still inhabit the temple and are the main attraction. Dulled by incense, the snakes are sluggish and cause no harm today and are worth a visit.
Though you might feel that the Snake Temple is your highlight, you will reevaluate after visiting the Kek Lok Si Temple, a majestic Buddhist Taoist Temple with its imposing 10,000 Buddha pagodas and its incredible tortoise pond. The Pond of Longevity, also called the Sacred Turtle Pond, is the location where the devout release captive turtles as an act of spiritual liberation. The scene is dominated by a statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. Before returning to the pier we will have the opportunity to experience the typical local Peraranakan Nyonya set lunch.
So much in Malaysia is about the spirit of life and it is a very uplifting feeling as you travel through the culture.
- All entrance fees mentioned in the tour are included.
- Tour is part driving and part walking. Please dress comfortably.
- Lunch is included in the tour.
- If you have more than 14 people in your party, please contact ShoreTrips
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:30 AM, duration: 3.5 hours
- 01:00 PM, duration: 3.5 hours
