Poor Butterworth. Whenever anyone says they’re visiting Penang, what they’re really saying is that they’re visiting Georgetown. The city and the island in general tend to hog the spotlight compared to mainland Penang.
It is a shame as Butterworth has quite a few things to see and to do if you know where you are looking. More importantly, it is far less congested and less crowded than Georgetown. Hence, maybe the next time you pass through, check out these ten places in Butterworth.
Places of Worship
- Butterworth Floating Mosque
Image Credit: Tabin Asubi on Google Review
A work of art in its own right, this mosque sits right on the sea. Whenever the tide rises, it looks like the mosque is floating on water. It is a peaceful place of worship, with Middle Eastern and Malay architecture you can admire.
Visitors are welcomed, but be sure to dress modestly and avoid showing up during prayer times when the mosque will be in use.
Address: Penang Port Sdn Bhd, Bagan Luar, 12100 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang
- Sri Sithi Vinagayar Temple
Image Credit: Rejean Beauchamp on Google Review (Left), DRF “Blucrz” Hall on Google Review (Right)
This Hindu temple has been around for over a century now and is still used by worshippers to this day. It was initially founded as a shrine by Ponusammy Pillai, a devotee of the elephant-headed god Ganesha.
The temple has gone through many reconsecration ceremonies, with the last one being in 2014. If you plan on visiting, you should check out the gorgeous structures and amazing Hindu architecture of this religious landmark.
Address: 61, Jalan Bagan Luar, Bagan Luar, 12000 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang
- St. Anne’s Church
Image Credit: Sebastien Robert on Google Review (Left), Chris on Google Review (Right)
In addition to being an active church, St. Anne’s is actually an important Catholic pilgrimage site. It looks the part, with its impressive steeple and a scenic hillside path with Stations of the Cross.
If you visit in July, you will get the chance to witness pilgrims gathering here for St. Anne’s Feast, which involves candlelight processions and special masses.
Address: Jln Kulim, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang
- Nine Emperor Gods Temple
Image Credit: Iosh D on Google Review (Left), Clonix Chan on Google Review (Right)
This Taoist temple is famous for its beautiful rooftop decorations. Dragons and phoenixes, both sacred animals in Chinese mythology, can be seen perched atop the temple. The temple is at its liveliest during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, with fire-walking and large processions.
Address: 27, Medan Melur Selatan, 4392, Jalan Raja Uda, Kampung Tengah, 12300 Butterworth, Penang
Art & Culture
- Butterworth Art Walk
Image Credit: Sim Ai Gim on Google Review (Left), Chaw on Google Review (Right)
Like in Georgetown, Butterworth has many murals worth keeping an eye out for. This particular area in town is a goldmine for street art lovers. Many of these paintings depict Butterworth’s history and culture.
There are even some cool 3D pieces that you should capture for your Instagram feed. The best time to do this? The late afternoon, when the lighting makes the colours pop out more.
Address: 1, Lorong Bagan Luar 1, Bagan Luar, 12000 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang
Nature & Scenic Spots
- Pantai Bersih Beach
Image Credit: Akhmal A. on Google Review (Left), Vincent Lim on Google Review (Right)
Just want to listen to the sounds of the sea lapping at the sand? Head over to this quiet beach, which offers a great view of Penang Island on the other side of the strait. And if you tire of your stroll, just head on over to any of the seaside restaurants here.
The best to head here is in the evening, when you can experience a magnificent sunset. That said, many locals suggest bringing bug spray with you when visiting in the evening. Best listen to them!
Address: Bagan Ajam, 13000 Butterworth, Penang
- Penang Bird Park
Image Credit: Liew Ann-Phang on Google Review (Left), Alpha Tam on Google Review (Right)
If you love learning about birds, no trip to Butterworth can be complete without a stop here. The bird park is home to over 300 avian species, from flamingoes to hornbills. If you’re lucky, you might even get to feed a handful of them.
Perfect for families with kids, this park provides everyone with a fun learning experience. And is there anything more peaceful than strolling through a lush garden with birds singing in the trees?
Address: Jalan Todak Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai, Penang
- Bukit Mertajam Forest Park
Image Credit: Helme Athrah Jaafar on Google Review (Left), Norin Daud on Google Review (Right)
Want to stay fit while on holiday? A hike through this national park should do the trick. Bukit Mertajam is a great spot to stretch your legs, providing some challenge without being overly tough.
In addition to the exercise, you will get to see all sorts of flora and fauna along the trails. Monkeys, bugs, birds, and monitor lizards are just some of the creatures you might spot. Be sure to bring good shoes and enough water if you plan on visiting!
Address: Jalan Seri Bukit, Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang, 14000
- Mengkuang Dam
Image Credit: Chai TY on Google Review (Left), Yan Nizar on Google Review (Right)
The biggest dam in Penang also offers visitors some of the best views you can get in the state. Peaceful and gorgeous, the dam is a great place to jog, cycle or chill. If you come at the right time, you might just catch the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival in full swing here!
Address: P133, 14000, Pulau Pinang
Local Markets
- Apollo Market
Image Credit: KC on Google Review (Left), Seow Beng Ang on Google Review (Right)
Why go shopping in a mall when you can have the authentic experience of shopping in a wet market? This famous market is a go-to for fresh produce and seafood. Street food stalls are also abundant here, with kuih sellers aplenty.
The best time to go here is in the early morning when the traders have plenty of stock and everything is fresh to eat.
Address: 13000, 1-13, Lorong Bunga Raya 12, Taman Bunga Raya, 13000 Butterworth, Penang
You should also check out: This uncle & auntie team run a 63y.o. pancake stall in Butterworth that’s recognised by Michelin
Feature Image Credit: Naila Tan on Google Review (Left), ZheYu Lai on Google Review (Right)