Hiking not only has many health benefits, but it also provides a physical challenge that can be both rewarding and stimulating. Hiking will help individuals stay in shape and push themselves to their limits, strengthening their stamina and endurance.
If you are up for a challenge, try out one of these 10 best places for hiking in Penang. You will feel a sense of accomplishment and achievement, especially when reaching the summit of a rugged trail or completing a long-distance hike.
How Do You Avoid Getting Lost When Hiking?
To avoid getting lost when hiking, stay on designated trails, stick to marked trails, and follow trail signs to ensure you stay on the right path. Also, pay attention to landmarks such as trees, rocks, and rivers to help you navigate and remember your route.
What Should You Wear For Hiking in Cold Weather?
When hiking in cold weather, dress in layers to trap heat close to your body. Wear a base layer of moisture-wicking fabric such as wool or synthetic fibres, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer to protect against wind and water. You can also wear a hat and gloves to help you keep warm.
Are There Ways To Deal with Altitude Sickness While Hiking At High Elevations?
Yes, there are. Slowly get used to the altitude and allow your body time to adjust by gradually approaching your hike. Spend a few days at a lower elevation before ascending to higher elevations. You can take your time and go slower than you usually would. Take frequent breaks to rest and allow your body to adjust.
Also Read More:
- Places For Hiking in Sabah
- Places For Hiking in Sarawak
- Places For Hiking Near PJ
- Places For Hiking Near Cheras
10 Best Places For Hiking in Penang 2025
1. Bukit Jambul Hiking Trail
Bukit Jambul Hiking Trail is a beautiful hiking trail with lush greenery throughout the entire trail. You would have to climb up multiple steps and over rocks and boulders along the way. Overall, it is a moderately challenging trail that most hikers can quickly complete. The peak of Bukit Jambul Hiking Trail faces the mainland, and you can catch some magnificent views, especially during sunset.
Operating Hours: All-day
Address: Bukit Jambul Hiking Trail Entrance, Lintang Bukit Jambul 1, Bj Cove, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
2. Bukit Hijau, Cangkat Tembaga Hiking Trail
Bukit Hijau, Cangkat Tembaga Hiking Trail is also known as Fish Head Hill; along your hike, you will pass by a big rock shaped like a fish head. This trail stands out from the usual trails as there is flat ground in the midst of the hike where you can play a game of badminton with friends. At the peak, you will be treated with a view of Penang, mainly the Greenlane and Air Itam areas.
Address: Bukit Hijau, Cangkat Tembaga Hiking Trail, Cangkat Tembaga, Taman Greenview, Jelutong, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
3. Muka Head Lighthouse
Muka Head Lighthouse offers one of the most exciting trails in Penang. The hike takes around an hour to reach the lighthouse, and along the way, you will pass through the lush greenery of the Penang National Park rainforest. When you arrive at the lighthouse, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view from high above and take memorable Instagrammable pictures there.
Operating Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm daily
Address: Muka Head Lighthouse, Penang National Park, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
4. Penang Hill
Penang Hill is Penang’s most famous hiking spot, as the Penang government heavily promotes it. It is challenging when you start hiking as the first section consists of steep stairs up to the mid-station. After that, it is a relatively relaxing walk to the peak, where you can enjoy the shade of the occasional fruit and flower trees. The fresh and cool air at the peak of Penang Hill is well worth it, and you can choose a few different routes there. It would take around two hours to reach the peak, depending on your stamina and hiking speed.
Address: Penang Hill, 11500 Air Itam, Penang
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View website5. Gertak Sanggul Trekking Start Point
Gertak Sanggul Trekking Start Point suits those looking for a relaxing climb. Starting your hike in the morning is recommended as the weather would be cooler and more comfortable. Before embarking on your hike, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and some light breakfast at the cafe at the entrance. The peak offers a magnificent view of the vast ocean, and if you time your hike in time for the sunset, you can witness golden rays reflecting on the surface of glistening waters.
Address: Gertak Sanggul Trekking Start Point, Penghujung Teluk Kumbar, Jalan Gertak Sanggul, Gertak Sanggul, 11000, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
6. Zi Zai Mountain First Entrance
Zi Zai Mountain First Entrance is an easy hike that is suitable for beginners and it is also child friendly. The hike is around 2 km and will take you less than an hour to reach the peak. At the peak, there is an abandoned bungalow under the state government’s care. Here, you can camp overnight or sit, relax, and chat with friends while you enjoy your packed lunches.
Address: Zi Zai Mountain First Entrance, 52, Lintang Lembah Permai 4, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
7. Bukit Batu Kawan
Bukit Batu Kawan has a paved pathway and a mountain trail too. You can choose between two trails; one will lead you to a signal tower, and another will lead you to a vast open space with a magnificent view of a hill area. Furthermore, Bukit Batu Kawan is popular with mountain bikers and joggers as well, so start your hike early if you want to avoid the crowd.
Address: Bukit Batu Kawan, Batu Kawan, Simpang Ampat, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
8. Astro Rock
Astro Rock has one of the best viewpoints in Penang. The trail is relatively easy, with several minimally steep climbs. There are a few routes to the peak; the closest is from Youth Park. On the way up, you will pass a small garden full of pretty flowers, which would also serve as an excellent backdrop for some pictures. Lastly, you can reach the peak in under 40 minutes, and be greeted by a panoramic view of Penang City, Penang Turf Club, and Gunung Jerai.
Address: Astro Rock, George Town, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
9. Freedom Hill Trailhead
Freedom Hill Trailhead is a safe, well-maintained, less-travelled hiking spot. The trail has some steps and uneven terrain, making it somewhat challenging for first-time hikers. There are knotted ropes to help hikers along their climb, and volunteer hikers have been doing their best to make the trail more manageable for hiking throughout the years. They have done a great job and provided other hikers with an excellent hiking experience.
Operating Hours: All-day
Address: Freedom Hill Trailhead, 47, Jalan Sungai Emas 3, Kawasan Perumahan Sungai Emas, 11100 Air Itam, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
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10. Mount Cendana
Mount Cendana offers a pleasant hiking experience for hikers of different hiking skill levels. This hiking route has windy and comfortable rest stops along the way and a scenic view at the peak where hikers can take Instagramable pictures with the famous colourful rainbow rock. The trail starts at Moongate, and hikers will pass by Penang Botanical Garden, several stairs, a lush, overgrown forest, and some exotic flora and fauna before they reach the top.
Address: Bukit Cendana, George Town, Penang
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Google Reviews: Here
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Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.com.my. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
