The 8 Best Hiking Trails in Penang
Penang is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its lush rainforests, breathtaking hills, and serene beaches, this vibrant island offers an array of hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers.
Not sure which trail to pick? In this article we’ll give you a guide on some of the best hiking trails in Penang to make your life easier so you can start trekking!
Penang Hill Heritage Trail
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Distance: 5.1 km
Hike Duration: 3 hours 21 minutes
Highlights: View of the railway
Known as Bukid Bendera in Malay, the Penang Hill Heritage Hall was once a colonial station built by the British during their occupation in Malaysia. And it is now one of the most famous hiking trails in Penang.
There are over 26 stations to start your hike in Penang Hill, depending on how much time and energy you have.
With the gorgeous panoramic view of the city from the summit, the hike from the starting point, Temple Road parking lot, is definitely worth the sweat.
Along the way you’ll pass by Middle Station, Claremont Station, and Viaduct Station where you’ll have a view of the railway.
Local Tips:
- Don’t want to take the uphill climb and just want to enjoy the view? No worries! A cable car can take you up to the summit for a small fee.
- Be careful not to approach birds and monkeys you’ll encounter along the way for safety.
- Follow the white, red, or pink arrows to see the trail locations!
Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 5.5 km
Hike Duration: 90 minutes
Highlights: Rainbow steps
Known as the Rainbow Stairway comprising 328 steps, the Bukit Mertajam trail is where you’ll be met with colorful steps painted along the way.
It’s also perfect for bird enthusiasts as you’ll be greeted by different species of birds along the way. Time to take that perfect-picture shot you’ve always wanted for the ‘gram!
Local Tip:
- Exhausted from taking the 328 steps? Don’t worry! There are small stalls that sell nutmeg fruits and nutmeg juice to keep you quenched during your hike.
Penang National Park – Teluk Duyung (Monkey Beach) Trail
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 10 km
Hike Duration: 30-40 minutes
Highlights: Monkey Beach
Starting from Penang National Park, this forest trail can get a bit narrow and challenging. But it’s all worth it as you will be met with a gorgeous beach with white sand right after!
The hike itself is around 10 kilometers and can take people less than an hour to finish. All that sweat will be worth it!
Kerachut Beach
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.6 km
Hike Duration: 2 hours 27 minutes
Highlights: Penang Turtle Sanctuary
This one-of-a-kind hiking trails offers you a chance to visit a meromictic lake and visit the turtle sanctuary. You’ll get a chance to breathe in the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes and camp out under the stars at night.
With a distance of 7.6 kilometers out-and-back, it will take people less than under three hours to complete. To reach Pantai Kerachut, you’ll need to cross over onto the bridge over a river.
Local Tip:
- Make sure you put on insect-repellent because there will be lots of mosquitos and other insects during your trail!
Bukit Kukus
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.7 km
Hike Duration: 1 hour 53 minutes
Highlights: Beautiful view of sunrise or sunset
The Bukit Kukus hiking trail is famous for not only hiking but for running and camping for tourists and locals alike.
The mountain is covered in thick greenery and vegetation, and hikers will see a lot of flora and fauna along the way.
Although this trail is 3.7 kilometers long (out and back), you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Penang and the surrounding landscapes.
Local Tip:
- Try this hiking trail during sunrise or sunset, it’s definitely worth a glimpse!
Titi Kerawang Waterfall
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 0.5 km
Hike Duration: 1 hour 39 minutes
Highlights: Titi Kerawang Waterfall
After that long walk, take a dip into the beautiful Titi Kerawang Waterfalls!
The cold, refreshing waters will definitely replenish you after that long 3.2 kilometer hike. This small waterfall is a popular weekend destination. You can even go on a picnic right there!
Local Tip:
- As this has not been fully developed yet, make sure to keep an eye on your kids if you plan to bring them along!
Bukit Jambul
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.4 km
Hike Duration: 50 minutes
Highlights: Gazebos
Near Beyan Lepas, Penang, this beautiful 1.4 kilometers (out and back) hiking trail takes less than an hour to complete.
The short hike will reward you with the experience of going through a gorgeous jungle filled with rest spots along the way. It’s surely a nice way to appreciate the beauty of nature!
Local Tip:
- This is also another perfect place to catch the sunrise or sunset! Try adjusting your time so you’ll be met with the perfect view!
Sungai Ara – Emperor Villa
Directions
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.1 km
Hike Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Highlights: Emperor Villa
Following the Sungai Ara trail will lead you to the Emperor Villa – a Chinese villa turned restaurant tucked away in the hills.
Pass through the elegant archway decorated with red lanterns that will seemingly teleport you to China with its beautiful and serene ambiance.
Local Tip:
- Don’t forget to try their specialties, roti bakar and hor fun. Now you can refuel and be rewarded with amazing food as you’re surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
For more information on hiking in Malaysia, check out the following resources: