Everything You Need to Know about The Habitat Penang Hill in Pulau Pinang
As someone who’s always been drawn to lush rainforests, I was thrilled when I discovered The Habitat Penang Hill was on our itinerary in Penang. It’s one of the most perfect ways a tourist spot is incorporated into a natural ecosystem, so it’s a win for all parties!
However, there are some things that I wish we had done differently during our first trip, like our time of visit and the place we stayed at—but, hey, that’s part of the fun. Well, if you don’t want to experience any drawbacks and want smooth sailing throughout, you’re in the right place!
Since our first visit, we’ ve learned tons of new info you won’t typically find in travel guides, so consider us your personal guide! From restaurants to check out, places to stay in, tips and more we’ve got everything you need to below!
Where is The Habitat Penang Hill?
The Habitat can be found at the summit of Penang Hill. The Tunnel Road can be found on its East while the Jalan Tuanku Yahya is on its south.
How to Get to The Habitat Penang Hill
By funicular Train: Taking the funicular train is the easiest, fastest and most scenic way to climb Penang Hill. You can purchase your ticket from the Lower Station at Air Itam or online in advance and depart at the Upper Station (5 – 10 minutes).
By bus: If you’re coming from the George Town Jetty, you can take the RapidPenang Bus #204. The trip will take around an hour or so and will take you directly to the Lower Station of the funicular train.
By Grab: Grab is also readily available in George Town and it’s a great option if you’re looking for a more comfortable and private ride. The average cost from here to the Lower Station is around RM11 depending on the time of day.
By rental car: You can also rent a car and drive your way to the Lower Station of the funicular train in Penang Hill. There are more than ample parking spaces in the multi-storey car park located by the bottom and rates start at RM2 per hour.
By hiking: If you prefer a bit more challenge, there are also several hiking trails leading up to Penang Hill from the Lower Station.
What to See and Do in The Habitat Penang Hill
Stroll on the Languar Way Canopy Walk
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
The Languar Way Canopy Walk is one of the two main attractions in The Habitat Penang Hill you must not miss. It sits 800 metres above sea level and spans 100 metres in length, making it the longest double-span stressed ribbon bridge in the world—be sure to wear comfy shoes!
Strolling along this walkway will provide you with unobstructed and spectacular views of the lush rainforest of the UNESCO site as well as glimpses of Langkawi. Even with its height, you won’t feel unsafe here thanks to the tall but see-through fences.
If you’re lucky enough, you can also spot some interesting animals along the way! For instance, one of the most common species you can bump into is the long-tailed macaque, which is a species of monkey that’s known to be intelligent and sociable.
Enjoy the views at Curtis Crest Treetop Walk
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
The Curtis Crest Treetop Walk is arguably the main star of the show here and it’s no coincidence that it offers the best views in Penang! It’s the highest viewing point in the entire state, so much so that you’ll catch glimpses of the Malacca Strait towards Thailand.
It also features this unique looping structure, so if you’re one to admire beautiful sceneries during your jogs, this is the place for you! Furthermore, this design allows you to see different types of views, whether you want to admire the sea, the rainforest or anything in between.
Participate in guided walks
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
Price: RM200 per guide (can accommodate up to 15 pax)
Book here
Since you’ve got a lot of ground to cover at The Habitat Penang Hill, one of the best things you can do is to book a guided walk tour. This way, you can make sure that you can explore every crevice and know bits and pieces of information along the way from an expert guide.
These walks will take place on well-maintained paths so you won’t have to be equipped with any hiking skills to enjoy them. All you have to do is follow your guide, stop and smell the flowers, and discover interesting flora and fauna.
One of the standouts from the flora species you’ll find here is the Penang Slipper Orchid, which is a rare orchid that features this beautiful purple hue. As for animals, keep an eye out for the cute red giant flying squirrel going from tree to tree.
Zipline at the Flight of the Colugo
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
Price (inclusive of the standard entrance pass):
- Adults: RM210
- Children: RM190
If you want a more exciting way to admire the UNESCO Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve, then the Flight of the Colugo should be on your itinerary. It’s a thrilling zipline experience that will give you that rush of adrenaline all while providing you with beautiful panoramic views.
As you’re making your way up the starting point, you’ll be guided by the Sky Ranger team to ensure everything’s in order for your Colugo re-enactment. Moreover, they’ll provide you with unique and intriguing tales of the forest during your long walk, so be sure to listen up!
At the time of writing, it’s temporarily closed due to maintenance according to their official WhatsApp. Rest assured, though, that they’ll get it back and running, as it’s one of their most famous attractions.
Find your zen while forest bathing
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
Price (inclusive of the standard entrance pass: RM100 per pax
Duration: 2 and a half hours
Forest Bathing is one of the best activities to try if you need to hit that much-needed refresh button from your daily hustle and bustle. It’s a guided nature-based therapy that will fully immerse your senses, from the smell of crisp air to the sound of rustling leaves, etc.
It’s also a great way to tap into your inner zen, as the therapy consists of various breathing and meditation techniques. To top it all off, your sense of taste will be treated to an assortment of fresh tea in your own tea-tasting session.
Just a tip: make sure to wear comfortable clothes that are suitable for outdoors as well as durable footwear. We also recommend wearing long-sleeved items to save yourself from mosquito bites!
Try sound healing
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
Sound Healing offers a different therapeutic experience wherein your body will feel positive vibrations. This is all thanks to the Tibetan singing bowls, masterfully played by the park’s experts, creating soothing vibrations that help calm the body.
What’s even better is the sounds coming from these bowls are blended with the sounds of natural breeze and rustling leaves from the rainforest. This pairing creates the ultimate tension-easing experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
Spend the night at Starlight Camping
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
Price (inclusive of Penang Hill Fast Lane Funicular Train tickets and The Habitat’s Standard Entrance Passes):
- Adults: RM380
- Children: RM330
If one day isn’t enough for you to fully take in the wonders of The Habitat Penang Hill, then Starlight Camping should be right up your alley! As you may have gleaned from its name, this activity will let you sleep underneath the stars amidst the lush rainforest.
This 2D/1N package offers more than just a wonderful night’s sleep too, as it comes with fun activities that will keep you entertained throughout the day. From guided tours to games and more, these inclusions will give you a bang for your buck.
Lastly, you’ll also be provided with 2 tea breaks and a lunch set to help you regain your energy after doing countless fun activities. Most importantly, a facilitator and a supporting team will be assigned to you.
Participate in sunrise yoga
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill, mypenanghill, byuan_
Price: Around RM80 per pax
Just when you think yoga couldn’t be better, The Habitat Penang Hill offers sunrise yoga, where you can find peace in nature. It’s a great way to start the day as well, as you’ll get to breathe in the crispest air and you can loosen up those joints!
The yoga instructors they feature here are no joke either! For instance, Yuan has been doing this profession for over 10 years, specialising in breath awareness, holistic wellness and mindful movements.
Where to Eat and Drink in Wet World Water Park
The Habitat Cafe & Retail by Kommune
Media credit: thehabitatpenanghill
Address: C7G9+69, Bukit Bendera
Phone: +60 19-868 1176
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website
Menu
The Habitat Cafe & Retail by Kommune is one of the best spots to unwind after a day full of adventures and explorations. It welcomes all its guests with its cosy ambience and fills their tummies with delicious plant-based delights.
They mostly serve Malaysian dishes and what we love about them is that all their ingredients are locally sourced. Farmers get their payment for their hard work while customers get the freshest ingredients for their dishes—win-win!
You can’t go wrong with any of their dishes but if you want our advice, we recommend their rendang. Instead of beef, they use fried zucchini as the main meat while retaining the iconic coconut curry flavour of the iconic dish.
David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace
Media credit: davidbrownsrestaurant.penang
Address: Strawberry Hill, Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera
Phone: +60 4-828 8337
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Website
Menu
David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace is a great spot to dine in with your family if you’re looking for someplace classy. It’s an English restaurant that offers artisan dishes in a fine dining setting, so it may be best to come here before taking a hike at The Habitat.
They offer different menus throughout the day so you can expect fresh choices regardless of what time you plan to visit. For instance, their lunch set menu features a special salad, a pasta of your choice and a delicious slice of their signature pistachio cake.
Our favourite thing about dining here is the generous serving. This is perfectly showcased in their afternoon tea sets that come with a variety of pastries, scones and tea.
Cliff Cafe (Astaka Bukit Bendera)
Media credit: dapurmanis_
Address: Astaka Bukit Bendera, Jalan Tunku Yahaya Petra
Phone: +60 4-828 8880
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Website
Cliff Cafe pairs light bites and delicious drinks with beautiful panoramic views. This is thanks to the cafe’s strategic location in Penang Hill that overlooks the lush rainforests as well as colourful flowers.
The real highlight here, however, is the food (and how cheap they are!). For instance, you can treat yourself to an authentic bowl of laksa, complete with its tasty broth, hand-pulled noodles, boiled egg and more without spending more than RM10!
We also recommend this cafe for sweet tooths because it features one of the most impressive dessert selections we’ve seen! Whether you’re craving some Western delights like banana split or traditional Malaysian sweets like ais kacang, they have them here!
Kota Penang Hill
Media credit: kotadine_coffee
Address: Lot 250 Town of Bukit Bendera
Phone: +60 16-465 1888
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Wednesday to Monday: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Website
Kota Penang Hill should be on your radar if you’re looking to be immersed in high-quality local delicacies. Their menu consists of classics like nasi lemak, otak-otak and more but with modern twists.
For starters, their nasi lemak is neatly presented but it still comes with all the fix-ins you’d expect like sambal, fried chicken, nuts, cucumber and of course, fragrant rice. We must say though, that their most creative dish is the curry stuffed inside a puff pastry.
They also offer satay but not the regular ones you’ll find in the streets of Malaysia. Here, they’re more meatier and they can come in a set meal alongside iced coffee—perfect for an afternoon quick bite!
Where to Stay in The Habitat Penang Hill
Bellevue The Penang Hill Hotel
Address: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Jalan Stesen
Phone: +60 4-829 9500
Pricing: $$
Website
If location is at the top of your priority then Bellevue The Penang Hill Hotel should be at the top of your list! It’s only 5 minutes away from the Habitat and it’s the only hotel you’ll find in Penang Hill.
Since it’s located near The Habitat, you can expect the same beautiful panoramic views to be present here! Whether you’re inside your room or outside in the common area, you can catch glimpses of Penang Hill.
However, it offers far more than just location convenience and views! It’s equipped with spacious and well-maintained rooms complete with basic amenities to make sure you’re comfortable throughout your stay.
Hickory On Penang Hill
Media credit: hickory.on.penang.hill
Address: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Lower Tunnel Road
Phone: +60 12-206 6422
Pricing: $$
Website
Hickory Penang Hill is a great affordable option that’s still relatively close to The Habitat. Don’t be fooled though, as its rooms are anything but cheap!
For starters, we love the overall homey vibe of the place, as it’s essentially a bungalow house that’s been converted into a 15-room guesthouse. Each room comes with its own charming design, massive plush beds and basic amenities.
The best part about staying here, however, is the viewing deck, as it offers unmatched views of Penang Hill as well as Pulau Pinang. It also features various chairs and tables so you can chill here while eating your home-cooked meals!
Royale Chulan Penang
Media credit: royalchulanpenang
Address: No 1 & 2, Pengkalan Weld
Phone: +60 4-259 8888
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Website
Royale Chulan Penang is one of the premier places to stay if you’re planning on returning to George Town after a day trip to Penang Hill. It’s a 4-star hotel located right by the bay so you can enjoy calming views from the comfort of your own rooms!
Speaking of rooms, they’re modern, massive, elegant and best of all, affixed with all the amenities you need for a comfy stay. From flat-screen TVs, fast Wi-Fi connections, en-suite bathrooms and more, you can expect to find them in your room!
The hotel also boasts an impressive selection of facilities that will make your stay all the more worthwhile. These include a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a bar and lounge and a fully-fledged gym complete with cardio machines and weights!
Areca Hotel Penang
Media credit: arecahotelpenang
Address: 5, Jalan Khoo Sian Ewe
Phone: +60 4-261 0050
Pricing: $$
Website
Areca Hotel Penang is a great option if you want to stay in the heart of George Town without paying too much for your rooms. It’s an old-timey hotel that features equally charming rooms but with modern amenities.
It also features a cafe where you can enjoy delicious coffee and light snacks at affordable prices. They offer a wide variety of local delicacies but you MUST try their nasi lemak for its perfectly-cooked fried chicken and distinctly fragrant rice.