Five Hiking Trails in Penang

Bored of roaming the hospital hallways or burdened by the endless onslaught of tutorials and lectures med school proffers? Cheer up, for just a stone’s throw away hide abundant hiking trails for the intrepid explorer – a gateway into a world of maze-like jungle ventures – your one-stop solution for the monotony of life.

1) Youth Park ( Laman Flora – Taman Jesselton – 45 – 39 )

As with almost all Penang trails, the starting point is somewhat hidden but look out for Laman Flora and head upwards. The trail begins gently, cutting across a well-kept garden of blossoms and a creek, before heading into denser foliage. Bonus points if you can spot the Taman Jesselton side-track which offers a wide-angle view of Penang Race Club Turf area from atop huge rock outcrops. Continue to rest stations number 45 and 39 for more viewing points, Instagram opportunities and a cup of Chinese tea.

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate Duration: 1.25 – 3 hours return

2) Moon Gate ( Poh Yau Sua – Poh Yau Mak – Pua Liap – 5)

This is a regular exercise route for groups of avid hikers, providing steep gradients at intervals for a good 45 minute workout if done at high intensity. Start at a slightly obscured route 3 minutes from Moon Gate past a pond with cascading streams. A water pipe will guide your way initially, take the first left and clamber up tree roots, minding orderly lines of ants and a myriad of arthropods along the way. Conserve enough energy for a final steep ascent of about 70 degrees gradient to rest station number 5, which is normally buzzing with the everyday Penangite exchanging life events over a cup of coffee – the best in Penang, so it is said.

Difficulty: Moderate Duration: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours one way

3) Moon Gate ( Poh Yau Sua – Rocket – 84 – Moniot Road East – Penang Hill Top)

Similar to the previous starting point but take a right at the first fork, and you will quickly understand why it is called the Rocket (another version affiliates it with a political party, take your pick). The route is lung-bursting if done non-stop but persevere; it levels out after one quarter of the way. Spot shy langurs and flying squirrels along the way, and enjoy the stroll up Moniot Road East, an early bridle path laid out in 1825. Reward yourself with some shaved ice dessert at the top. Ps: Certain stalls may offer discount to hikers/ penniless students.

Difficulty: Moderate – High Duration: 1.5 – 3 hours one way

4) Taman Negara (Bukit Batu Hitam – Teluk Kampi – Pantai Kerachut)

Unbeknownst to many, Penang is home to the smallest national park in Malaysia and boy is it full of accessible hiking trails. The ubiquitous Monkey Beach stroll is an all-time favourite, with contrasting jungle and seascapes for a unique experience. For those looking for a bit more challenge, try the tough hike up Bukit Batu Hitam with at least 3 hills to traverse amidst thickets of green foliage brimming with life. It takes about 5 hours to reach the peak of Bukit Batu Hitam and you would then have to make your way down to Teluk Kampi or Pantai Kerachut for a boat ride back, so this is one that requires good preparation. If venturing in the months of April to July, don’t miss the meromictic lake at Pantai Kerachut – one of its kind in South East Asia where freshwater meets the sea.

Difficulty: High Duration: 6 – 8 hours one way

5) Taman Rimba Teluk Bahang to Penang Hill

This is the ‘graduation’ hike for the dedicated Penang hiker – the longest trail Penang offers of 11km one way. Complete it with a buddy or more, unless you prefer hours of solitude and mindless tramping. Despite its length, this is a pleasant natural rainforest trail – undulating terrain, shady coverage, and a sea of green fabric which comes spectacularly alive when sunlight reaches through thick branches to expose brilliant hues of ferns and moss.

Difficulty: High Duration: 6 – 8 hours one way