Penang Hill
Penang Hill
4
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
About
Penang Hill is the oldest British hill station in Southeast Asia, dated late 1700’s. The highest peak of Penang Hill stand at 833 metres (2,732ft) above sea level. Penang Hill funicular train service started on October 1923 The current funicular trains is the 4th generation system which started its operation on 24th April 2011. The funicular track stretches a distance of 1,996 metres (1.99KM) from lower to Upper Station which is the longest in Asia. Penang Hill funicular tunnel, at 79 metres (258ft) long and 10feet (3.0m) wide with a steepness of 27.9degree, is the steepest tunnel track in the world. There are a total of 52 hill bungalows located on Penang Hill (42 of them are private-owned and 10 bungalows are state-owned). Most of them are more than 100 years old and Bel Retiro (Governors Bungalows) built in1789 is the oldest. Number of visitor to Penang Hill in 2016 exceed 1.6million.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- jec000Melbourne, Australia74 contributionsGreat views - get an express ticketThere was lots of walks and a few things to do at top. The few was really good and likely we went on a fairly clear day. The ride up and down is fairly quick. I would recommend an express lane ticket. We got there at about 11am and we queued for an hour. The queue back was so much longer. Luckily you can upgrade to express at the top. We did this and it made the experience so much better.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 25 October 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 October 2023
- CynfullySingapore, Singapore49 contributionsGreat Attraction to visit with Top Staff DulasiyThis is a great Penang Attraction that no one should miss, we were travelling in a big group with young children. One of the staff Dulasiy Subramaniam was very attentive and took great care of our young children's safety. Thank you for making our Penang Hill visit a very lovely one, it was crowded on a Saturday but the staff made the difference. Even the buggy rides we took that showed us around the hill has very lovely staff who explained and took photos our group. Spot the monkeys here they are very uniqueDear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 5 November 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 30 October 2023
- Fredric JohnDubai, United Arab Emirates848 contributionsThe Penang Hill experiencePlease check the weather when you decide to come to Penang Hill because I didn’t. I went in the morning knowing that there’s less people to avoid other tourists and locals. But I think, as the main tourist attraction in Penang, it is inevitable to avoid people. Everything inside Penang Hill’s attraction has a separate entrance fee which is frustrating. I opted to visit The Habitat since I don’t have anything to see due to the fog and the weather. The great thing about my whole visit is the gondola ride going to the Hill. I spend around 3-4 hours just waiting for the weather to cool down so I can see the view in the Upper Hill Side but still there is nothing.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. You may refer to the visitors’ guide, which is available online at our official website at https://penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/attractions, to check out all the attractions on the hill. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 27 November 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled soloWritten 18 November 2023
- Sia65Singapore, Singapore736 contributionsCloudy at summitProbably because the December monsoon is coming hence it was cloudy almost everyday. No view at summit so we went to The Habitat. Also no view but it’s nice to look at the plants that are endemic to Penang and the region. No luck with seeing fauna except some monkeys. Habitat is also a lot less crowded than other parts of Penang Hill. Stop by the cafe before you go to take in the fresh air and pause before you continue the rest of your day.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 26 November 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 23 November 2023
- LaraBton85 contributionsA little like Disney-land at the top of the funicular but once away from the crowds fabulousVery busy - school parties as well as tourists. Best to go fast track. Very busy at the top of the funicular but once we were on the sky walk trail no crowds at all. Stunning views. Peaceful. Unfortunately bird life disappointing.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 1 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited November 2023Written 2 December 2023
- Peter T77 contributionsPENANG HILL. PENANG. MALAYSIA1)This is one of the TOP Tourist spots in Penang. 2)Many renovations have been done improving the site. The Train is much spacious and comfortable then the OLD one. However, ALWAYS Long waiting time !! 3)The hill top accord Some views of Penang Island; BUT not too impressive Many commercial outlets set up on hill top, But offer ordinary wares !! 4)Visit it for the sake of " Had BEEN" !!Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. For your kind information, like any popular tourist destinations in Malaysia, queues at Penang Hill will inevitably be long during school holidays, popular weekends and public holidays. Penang Hill Corporation always advises visitors to come early to avoid long queues and plan their trips in advance to maximise their experience at this must-visit destination in Penang. We will continue to explore ways to improve further. We hope you will visit Penang Hill again in the future. Thank you.Written 2 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 4 December 2023
- Raintree_ThailandBangkok, Thailand4,282 contributionsFunicular train ride to the top is a must in Penang!You can't really say you've been to Penang if you haven't made the trip up to the top of Penang Hill. But, it really only makes sense to go up if the weather is reasonably clear; otherwise, you're spending money for a short train ride only. The trip to the top is via Southeast Asia's longest funicular train system. The trip takes a mere 4 1/2 minutes, but it's steep and fun. For foreigners, the cost is 30 ringgit for adults and seniors for the standard fare (meaning you wait in line while all the people who paid for the "fast lane" zip past you. The cost for the fast lane is about double, but it is probably worth it for most people on busy days. The price for Malaysians is less than half that for foreigners. We found the management of the funicular was not so good as they informed us the wait for the standard line was only 30 minutes, but it turned out to be more than one hour. The views at the top were very nice and the air was refreshingly cool.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 1 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 6 December 2023
- srimanoneJoshua Tree, California1,031 contributionsWE DID THE CAR UP TO TOPThe lines for funicular were very very long. We decided ahead of time to go directly to the botanical Gardens where there is a smaller line for suv trucks to take you to top. The ride to top was exciting like being in a race course with excellent driver. Once on top it’s a stroll around for photos and selfies . Highest point on town and worth the visit. Problems only when coming down and waiting for transport and juggling line.be aware of that partDear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 1 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 20 December 2023
- McflySingapore, Singapore106 contributionsFresh air and Excellent ViewBeautiful scenery and the air up there is fresh. Try to go early in the morning to avoid the crowd. Bring along you your camera. For the ticket, there are normal and express . My recommendation is buy the express tickets to avoid the long queues. Highly recommend.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 1 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 24 December 2023
- iitravelBrisbane, Australia681 contributionsPenang views and wildlifeThe trip up and back on the funicular may be lengthy depending on the day and time when you visit. If possible avoid weekends and local holidays. After the funicular ride you will have the option to walk around areas of Penang Hill or hire a buggy driver. If you have a reasonable fitness level most areas at the top are walkable although some include walking up hills. The area I walked were all bitumen sealed and you will just have to be mindful of buggy drivers and occasionally move of the bitumen. You will see some monkeys and occasional squirrel and some other native animals when walking in some areas of the hill. The monkeys near the monkey cup garden and cafe area were very photogenic and it was good to see no one was feeding them or offering them drinks as they happily fed on the native vegetation. The outer areas of Penang Hill generally do not have a lot of walkers or buggy traffic and be mindful some areas are off limits as indicated by signage. I spent about 3.5 hours including stops for refreshments walking around and enjoying the views from the main vantage points, I did not walk any of the trails up or down Penang Hill. It is a good idea to carry some water and snacks if you are inclined to go away from the main area and possibly an umbrella or rain coat. You can buy food including ice creams , soft drinks and water and there are a few activities that require an entry fee to be paid including Habitat.Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation! Thank you for visiting Penang Hill. We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your visit. We hope you have the opportunity to visit the latest attraction on the hill -- Penang Hill Gallery@Edgecliff -- a must-stop to know Penang Hill during your next visit. You might as well want to join our free guided nature and heritage walks to explore Penang Hill's nature and heritage at their best next time. Hope to see you again. Thank you.Written 14 January 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited November 2023Travelled soloWritten 13 January 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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tan tribe
3 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
On Jan 14th 2020, i went to Penang Hill with my wife. We were driven to the location to use the jeep to go up to the mountain. Unbeknown to us Penang Hill was closed for maintenance from 6th Jan to 14th Jan 2020 (find this out later searching on website). So we approached the people who were there and asked about going up and they very happily said please pay $160RM to go up. I paid and went in the jeep and proceeded up the hill. Halfway there the driver informs us that some of the facilities may not be open like the restaurant. Ok so no food not a problem. We went up and unloaded and the driver went off down the hill. We talked to some other people and paid another $30RM to just drive around to look at the houses in the area - so far nothing really exciting. Along the way they mentioned that the HABITAT, the primary viewing objective was closed along with everything else. I excaimed and questioned and confirmed that nothing was open and that it was a total waste of our time to have gone up the hill and wasted a total of $190RM. I called the driver to go back down and spoke with him and the driver said it is not their responsibility to inform visitors that Penang Hill is closed for renovation and maintenance. I spoke to the person selling tickets and the guy said to me "I am sorry but i did not sell you the tickets. I cannot give you a refund. Again we are not responsbile to inform you. Your taxi driver should know and tell you." Passing the responsibility to someone else.
This is total bs and irresponsible of the people working as the ticket sellers and drivers. It appears that they are there just to make money for themselves and no customer service is involved. I am a Malaysian and totally digusted with the treatment that i was given and no refund. I would not recommend seeing Penang Hill if there are people who work to take your money but do not provide advice that an environment is closed and not suitable for viewig.
This is total bs and irresponsible of the people working as the ticket sellers and drivers. It appears that they are there just to make money for themselves and no customer service is involved. I am a Malaysian and totally digusted with the treatment that i was given and no refund. I would not recommend seeing Penang Hill if there are people who work to take your money but do not provide advice that an environment is closed and not suitable for viewig.
Written 17 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shenad18
Sydney, Australia956 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
We went to Bukit Bendera on a Monday afternoon thinking there would be less crowds by then for a quicker look around and return to hotel.
Took us 3.5 hours of queueing, including 45 minutes for tickets, for the tram. Though this is a modern tram, it was still limited in its passenger capacity. We were packed in like sardines, breathing in BO, sweat, heat and tears. 😓😣
Fortunately, the ride up was pretty quick. We actually passed the 2nd tram, which was going down m, part way as ours headed upwards. We walked around the summit to take photos just as the sun set. It was very sad. We tried to look around further but with dusk falling, every shop was closing or closed. In the end, we took a motorised rickshaw to take us around which was mainly sightseeing
We were exhausted with the standing around in the queues, and tired from the Penang heat. I refused to queue again for another 3 hours to go down. We found out there 4x4s we could pay for rm80 per car and took that downwards. Hairy, adventurous ride downhill ending at the Botanical Gardens. We called for a Grab from there to our hotel.
I doubt I will ever visit Penang Hill again. 😢
Took us 3.5 hours of queueing, including 45 minutes for tickets, for the tram. Though this is a modern tram, it was still limited in its passenger capacity. We were packed in like sardines, breathing in BO, sweat, heat and tears. 😓😣
Fortunately, the ride up was pretty quick. We actually passed the 2nd tram, which was going down m, part way as ours headed upwards. We walked around the summit to take photos just as the sun set. It was very sad. We tried to look around further but with dusk falling, every shop was closing or closed. In the end, we took a motorised rickshaw to take us around which was mainly sightseeing
We were exhausted with the standing around in the queues, and tired from the Penang heat. I refused to queue again for another 3 hours to go down. We found out there 4x4s we could pay for rm80 per car and took that downwards. Hairy, adventurous ride downhill ending at the Botanical Gardens. We called for a Grab from there to our hotel.
I doubt I will ever visit Penang Hill again. 😢
Written 3 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear sir/madam,
Greetings from Penang Hill!
Thank you for visiting Penang Hill during your stay in Penang.
For your kind information, Penang Hill is a popular tourist destination that receives many visitors from near and far. Many of the local visitors also took this opportunity to visit Penang Hill during this school/long weekend/public holiday.
Like any popular tourist destination in the world, queues at Penang Hill will inevitably be long during school holiday, popular weekends and public holidays. PHC always advise visitors to come early to avoid long queues and plan their trip in advance to maximise their experience on this must-visit destination in Penang.
Alternatively, if you are in a hurry or have limited time, you may opt to upgrade your funicular tickets to Fast Lane tickets which allow you to have priority boarding on the next available funicular. Please visit our website at www.penanghill.gov.my for further information and better planning.
We hope this clarification gives you a better understanding of our funicular service. Once again, thank you for your feedback. We look forward to welcoming you back to the beautiful Penang Hill again in future.
Written 4 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Janine
Ripon, UK11 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We had heard the funicular was out of action so asked our hotel the best way to get to the top. After reading a review on TA we checked to make sure everything else was open, and took a taxi to the Botanical gardens to get a jeep to the top. We were early so walked around the beautiful peaceful gardens, watching families enjoying time together and others doing exercise classes or just meditating in the open spaces. Everyone was cheerful and polite to one another. Shortly the jeep station opened and we were driven to the top by John, who amazed us with his skilled driving up the 5k of continuous tight bends.
At the top we had a drink at the Bellevue hotel before walking to the skywalk to view Georgetown and the bridges. We then went on a walk around the road looking at views on the way and ending up at The Habitat. We didn’t realise we’d come in at the exit but it didn’t matter we just did it backwards! Because the funicular wasn’t working there were very few people there at this time , so much so we didn’t pass a single other person as we walked through the beautiful rainforest. There is a skywalk high above the trees which is normally heaving with people but it was deserted and so again we had it to ourselves. Our jeep driver was waiting for us when we got back and the trip down was easier than the journey up.
If you want to avoid all the queues go via the Botanical gardens and take the jeep 160Ringgit return per jeep. Also visit the Habitat, a lovely walk with plenty of wildlife to be seen. You can just pay to walk through or for the more adventurous there are zip lining offers to be had. For fun do the walk starting at the exit, you may get lucky like us and have the place to yourselves.
At the top we had a drink at the Bellevue hotel before walking to the skywalk to view Georgetown and the bridges. We then went on a walk around the road looking at views on the way and ending up at The Habitat. We didn’t realise we’d come in at the exit but it didn’t matter we just did it backwards! Because the funicular wasn’t working there were very few people there at this time , so much so we didn’t pass a single other person as we walked through the beautiful rainforest. There is a skywalk high above the trees which is normally heaving with people but it was deserted and so again we had it to ourselves. Our jeep driver was waiting for us when we got back and the trip down was easier than the journey up.
If you want to avoid all the queues go via the Botanical gardens and take the jeep 160Ringgit return per jeep. Also visit the Habitat, a lovely walk with plenty of wildlife to be seen. You can just pay to walk through or for the more adventurous there are zip lining offers to be had. For fun do the walk starting at the exit, you may get lucky like us and have the place to yourselves.
Written 19 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear sir/madam,
Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation!
Thank you for visiting Penang Hill.
We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your recent visit. We also hope you have the opportunity to join free guide nature walk and explore nature at Penang Hill at its best.
Hope to see you again.
Thank you.
Written 21 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
fiz S
77 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Enjoyed most part of the trip there.
We grab D Grab from Georgetown that cost us RM12.
We hit the place on a weekday not much of a queue
Price for Funicular Train: Rm12
Yes senior citizen prize available
Best place to sit: Front rows
I personally did not find the place cold at all, so you do not need to bring along your cold winter jackets. Sandals,T shirt and Bermuda pants you are set to go.
Once you have reached the top, spectacular clear view of George Town, Penang Bridge.
Other attractions:
All about money up here.
1. Skywalk
2. Harmony centre? Mosque temple etc
3. Habitat
4. Owl museum
Others.
Now you would probably spend about 1-2 hours walking around the place.
Owl Museum?
I think its rather expensive for Rm10 per person for such a small place?
Old cameras with statues of owls.
Yes thats about it.
Furthermore, staff is not friendly at all.
Those 0800-1700 kinda of mentality.
What makes it worst, indirectly not honest about it. We were asking What do we get with RM10?
"Ticket to owl museum food court and view"
Basically the RM 10 only for owl museum rest are all free.
Shame. And the person in charge is as cold as ice.
The service provided by staff at Penang Hill: 0800-1700 mentality again. They see local and they will treat you like you are 10cents worth of their time. Shame. We have gained independency from colonial system and yet our mentality remained being colonized.
We grab D Grab from Georgetown that cost us RM12.
We hit the place on a weekday not much of a queue
Price for Funicular Train: Rm12
Yes senior citizen prize available
Best place to sit: Front rows
I personally did not find the place cold at all, so you do not need to bring along your cold winter jackets. Sandals,T shirt and Bermuda pants you are set to go.
Once you have reached the top, spectacular clear view of George Town, Penang Bridge.
Other attractions:
All about money up here.
1. Skywalk
2. Harmony centre? Mosque temple etc
3. Habitat
4. Owl museum
Others.
Now you would probably spend about 1-2 hours walking around the place.
Owl Museum?
I think its rather expensive for Rm10 per person for such a small place?
Old cameras with statues of owls.
Yes thats about it.
Furthermore, staff is not friendly at all.
Those 0800-1700 kinda of mentality.
What makes it worst, indirectly not honest about it. We were asking What do we get with RM10?
"Ticket to owl museum food court and view"
Basically the RM 10 only for owl museum rest are all free.
Shame. And the person in charge is as cold as ice.
The service provided by staff at Penang Hill: 0800-1700 mentality again. They see local and they will treat you like you are 10cents worth of their time. Shame. We have gained independency from colonial system and yet our mentality remained being colonized.
Written 8 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrayBray1990
6 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
For the price, Penang Hill is worth it. We travelled via Grab from Georgetown which cost 11k and jumped straight onto the Funicular before the crowds.
I would highly recommend getting to the base of the Funicular before 10.30am to beat the larger tour buses. When we returned to the base at around 1pm, the lines were incredibly long.
At the top, pending a clear day, you have an excellent view. There are some monkeys around, and even some short 1k, 2k and 5k walks. We did the 2k walk and we were the only people on the track through the forest: quite plesant.
I would highly recommend getting to the base of the Funicular before 10.30am to beat the larger tour buses. When we returned to the base at around 1pm, the lines were incredibly long.
At the top, pending a clear day, you have an excellent view. There are some monkeys around, and even some short 1k, 2k and 5k walks. We did the 2k walk and we were the only people on the track through the forest: quite plesant.
Written 14 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear sir/madam,
Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation!
Thank you for visiting Penang Hill.
We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your recent visit. We also hope you have the opportunity to join free guide nature walk and explore nature at Penang Hill at its best.
Hope to see you again.
Thank you.
Written 16 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LindaJensen
Napa Valley, CA66 contributions
Dec 2019
In 10 years since my last visit it was shockingly changed. Funicular lines because of cruise ship passengers could be 2 hours long so we took the jeep from the botanical garden, which was a bit scary but maybe 20 min wait. The Habitat rain forest walk was beautiful but the hill top area itself is not crowded with cheap touristy souvenir shops, snack stalls, loud music. We had lunch at David Brown's which was crowded, poor service and the food not above average. We had to wait for people to move to see the views. And we went early on a weekday to supposedly avoid crowds. I would not go back.
Written 1 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
69Ted
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia12 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
I have to completely agree with a recent review remarking on how poor their post covid reopening protocols are here.
The management response to that review also reinforced my impression that all they're doing is the absolute bare minimum so as to avoid getting into trouble with government regulations.
There's the usual QR code scan and temperature check on entry but this is poorly staffed. When we entered there was one woman only doing this and several people got in without either scanning the QR code, manually giving contact details or even having their temperature checked.
When queuing up there are distancing markings on the floor but no encouragement to abide by them. The highly observant might notice there's a video titled covid19.mp4 on continuous loop on a small screen but the sound track is inaudible and most people didn't notice it was on.
Many people queuing were either not wearing masks or just had them under their chin - any staff visible seemed totally uninterested in this. In fact, on our crowded cable car we were just behind the driver; he had a mask on but pulled it down under his chin as we were leaving to chat to some passengers next to him.
This was my 3rd visit to Penang Hill and the first since the cars have been upgraded and the whole operation made a lot more geared to mass tourism. It's a major money making venture now and I'm sure they could do better than this mere lip service to covid procedures. I've been to other Malaysian tourist attractions recently which made a much better job of this and had staff who were obviously well trained to make sure rules were followed and people kept safe in a friendly way.
As a non-Malaysian living here I've been hugely impressed with how the country has handled the covid crisis and that made this poor showing all the more a shock.
The management response to that review also reinforced my impression that all they're doing is the absolute bare minimum so as to avoid getting into trouble with government regulations.
There's the usual QR code scan and temperature check on entry but this is poorly staffed. When we entered there was one woman only doing this and several people got in without either scanning the QR code, manually giving contact details or even having their temperature checked.
When queuing up there are distancing markings on the floor but no encouragement to abide by them. The highly observant might notice there's a video titled covid19.mp4 on continuous loop on a small screen but the sound track is inaudible and most people didn't notice it was on.
Many people queuing were either not wearing masks or just had them under their chin - any staff visible seemed totally uninterested in this. In fact, on our crowded cable car we were just behind the driver; he had a mask on but pulled it down under his chin as we were leaving to chat to some passengers next to him.
This was my 3rd visit to Penang Hill and the first since the cars have been upgraded and the whole operation made a lot more geared to mass tourism. It's a major money making venture now and I'm sure they could do better than this mere lip service to covid procedures. I've been to other Malaysian tourist attractions recently which made a much better job of this and had staff who were obviously well trained to make sure rules were followed and people kept safe in a friendly way.
As a non-Malaysian living here I've been hugely impressed with how the country has handled the covid crisis and that made this poor showing all the more a shock.
Written 22 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear sir/madam,
Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation!
Thank you for choosing Penang Hill as your choice of destination to visit.
We would like to thank you for bringing forward to our attention about this matter.
We are truly sorry that you had an unpleasant experience during your visit.
For your information, the Federal Government on 11 June announced that all public transportation allowed to operate at full capacity with safety measures such as temperature checks and the wearing of face masks.
As such, PHC has also implemented the New Normal Standard Operating Procedures by constantly reminding visitors to wear face masks at all times throughout the visit via signages and announcement to public.
As a public funicular operator, PHC always wishes to bring pleasant experience to visitors and not by intensifying/heightening the pandemic fear among them.
Like many popular tourist destinations in the country, Penang Hill is also experiencing unusual crowd during July prior to the full re-opening of schools. Queues at Penang Hill will inevitably be longer during holiday seasons.
PHC always welcomes feedback and will continue to look for ways to improve. We look forward to welcoming you back to the beautiful Penang Hill.
Thank you.
Written 29 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CHIKA N
1 contribution
Mar 2021 • Friends
The train timing sucks, the clock for the train is 2 minutes earlier and all the staff seems like dont care, while on the actual timing is not even 8am,.. When we asked, why is the train always depart 2 minutes earlier, he said its the train clock.. Why can you change it? Some people are rushing to go up and some workers who are like few minutes late, which can still make it to the train, but was refused to let them in, if the train's doors aldy closed we understand but like today, the door is not even closed yet but he aldy closed the steel gate which is nonsense and he is not so friendly.. The way he answered us... ( you go see the clock there) whats with that attitude? Come on, you can be polite. Understood that got ppl booked in advanced he said for 10 pax, but the current pax in was not even 40, u hv so many coaches. For the record please change the timing, it confuses people.. And if the train's doors are not closed yet, meaning you can still let people in.. Unless u have 100 ppl like before mco.. Thats another story which involves the capacity. Today.. No.. Not even 60 pax. Ive seen they stuff ppl in there more than 60 during the mco, or cmco last year.. Not even followed the SOP.. So now? Wanna follow..who are you trying to fool? Even during weekends, they stuff ppl like sardine.Sitting close to each other.. Wheres the SOP? I love Penang Hill, always come here to hike but always give us troubles.
Written 25 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Litenin
Red Deer, Canada81 contributions
Nov 2019
We enjoyed out visit to Penang Hill. It is a beautiful view that provides a perspective and better understanding of the layout of the city below. It also gives more insight into the grandeur of the British colonialism and its part in the development of Georgetown and Penang. The Habitat was also worthwhile although its cost was prohibitive for many of the visitors. Also, if possible buy the express ticket as it shortened our lines and times significantly. We actually felt a bit guilty being able to jump so many spaces just because we had a bit more money.
Written 31 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear sir/madam,
Greetings from Penang Hill Corporation!
Thank you for visiting Penang Hill.
We are delighted to hear that you have enjoyed your recent visit. We also hope you have the opportunity to join free guide nature walk and explore nature at Penang Hill at its best.
Hope to see you again.
Thank you.
Written 1 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Adrian H
Houston, TX478 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
The funicular railway was great. We bought fast track tickets online but changed our plans to go in the evening as rain was forecasted, we went early and not busy so wasted money on fast track.
Disappointed At the top, all overly commercial.
This could be much better.
Disappointed At the top, all overly commercial.
This could be much better.
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Saw on website that theres PHC maintenance. Is the railway/train still open for visitors at start of Jan?
Written 3 January 2024
How much is it cost to go up on the cable train and return for a non resident, tourist, Adult and Senior ??
Written 5 February 2023
Adult Ticket
(13 - 59 Years Old)
Two-way ticket access
Normal Lane @ RM 30
Fast Lane @ RM 80
Senior Citizen Ticket
(60 Years Old & Above)
Two-way ticket access
Normal Lane @ RM 30
Fast Lane @ RM 60
Written 6 February 2023
Is it hot if we visit after lunch hour, ie 2pm? And is it Habitat Penang Hill on this hill also?
Written 5 April 2022
Hi we went early morning as we were flying out late that day, but reading other peoples comments it looks like the last train down is supposed to be 2200. Hope that helps
Written 11 March 2020
Will the train up Penang Hill be running this November please ?
Written 4 September 2019
Yes. But do check their website for any schedules of maintenance activities.
Written 5 September 2019
hi
how much does it cost for the jeep, 2 way? Must book in advance? Thanks
Written 14 July 2019
Is it ok if we visit around 4pm evening?
Written 24 June 2019
The last train is about 11 pm
Written 25 September 2019
Hallo
Is the canopy walk open? Do we need to make reservation?
Regards
Natasha
Written 10 June 2019
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