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Malaysia Malaysia

George Town

George Town is the capital of Penang state in Malaysia, named after King George III of Britain. Covering about 150 km², it serves as the base for exploring Penang.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

George Town
Gateway airport
Penang International Airport (PEN)
Best season
Jan–Feb
Time zone
Asia/Kuala_Lumpur
Sights covered
45 places

Sights worth seeing

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Penang Island

Nature

Penang Island

An island off the west coast of the Malay Peninsula that forms the heart of Penang state. Its capital, George Town, takes its name from the British colonial era.

Kek Lok Si

Temples & religious sites

Kek Lok Si

The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, located in Air Itam, George Town, and known as a pilgrimage site for Buddhists across Southeast Asia. It's fascinating to explore the countless Buddha and Guanyin statues housed in its seven-tiered pagoda.

Roman Catholic Diocese of Penang

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Penang

A Catholic diocese overseeing the northern and east-coast states of Peninsular Malaysia. Established in 1955, it falls under the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur.

Kapitan Keling Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Kapitan Keling Mosque

A mosque in the UNESCO World Heritage zone of George Town, Malaysia, at the junction of Buckingham Street and Pitt Street. Built by Indian Muslim traders in the 19th century, it was the area's first permanent Islamic institution and the heart of the Chulia community.

Penang State Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Penang State Mosque

A state mosque located on Masjid Negara Road in George Town, Malaysia. As one of Penang's leading Islamic landmarks, it's a great spot to admire from the outside.

KOMTAR

Views & landmarks

KOMTAR

A landmark in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. It makes a handy reference point for orienting yourself while exploring the city.

Penang Floating Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Penang Floating Mosque

A mosque built along the George Town waterfront to appear as if floating on water, offering a striking view set against the sea. It's a great stop to combine with a stroll along the coast.

Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang

Temples & religious sites

Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang

A Hindu temple in George Town, Malaysia, built in 1833 and considered Penang's oldest Hindu temple. The deity carvings adorning its entrance and facade are a highlight.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

27° Jan
27° Feb
28° Mar
28° Apr
28° May
28° Jun
28° Jul
27° Aug
27° Sep
27° Oct
27° Nov
27° Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

George Town Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Where to stay

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