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Penang International Airport is the most significant airport in Penang, serving both domestic and international travel. As one of the busiest airports in Malaysia, it plays a vital role in the region’s connectivity. The airport is located at the southeastern tip of the beautiful Penang Island, close to Georgetown. Despite its size, navigating the airport is straightforward, thanks to its high-quality facilities and amenities. These include VIP lounges, a tourist information centre, baby care rooms, and charging stations. You can also find several food outlets here, from fast to fine dining.
Quick Details:
Location: Penang Island, Malaysia
Where To Stay: Penang Island, Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang
Where To Eat: Laksalicious, Orinea Restaurant
Best Time To Visit: December to February
Location
Photo: Cmglee / Wikimedia Commons
Penang International Airport’s Address is Penang Island, Malaysia. Nestled in the Bayan Lepas area, it lies 16 km south of George Town, the vibrant capital city of Penang. This airport serves as a key transit point for travellers.
How To Reach
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Taxi: You can easily find kiosks to book a cab at all domestic and international exits. At these counters, the fixed rates for taxis are displayed. A trip to George Town typically costs approximately MYR 44.70 for a sedan and MYR 89.40 for a larger vehicle. However, you might have to pay an additional 50% surge charge from midnight to 6 AM.
Bus: Buses offer a convenient alternative to taxis, as they are more cost-effective and well-connected throughout the city. The main bus station in George Town is located on Victoria Street. Buses run every 30 minutes, and you can purchase a ticket from the airport for around 2 – 3 RM.
Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles at Penang International Airport provide a convenient and economical way to travel to various locations in Penang. These are generally more economical as compared to the other two. They also operate to popular destinations such as George Town, Batu Ferringhi, and other areas around Penang Island.
Personal Car: There are facilities that allow you to park your car at the airport for more than a day. If you wish to park a car and travel around the city, you can easily do so, by paying a nominal fee based on the rate chart.
Things To Do At Penang International Airport
To pass the time during layovers, and while waiting at the airport, you may engage in various activities at the airport. Here are some things you can do while waiting for your flight:
1. Indulge In local cuisines
Photo: Jonathan Lin / Wikimedia Commons
While waiting at the airport, nothing is better than indulging in a savoury scrumptious treat. If you wish to try the local cuisine, dishes like Nasi Kandar, Char Kway Teow, and Penang Laksa are a must-try.
However, if you are in the mood for something more familiar, you can find some of the best international food chains including Starbucks and McDonalds.
2. Experience The Entertainment Zones
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The airport also features some amazing entertainment zones to keep you from boredom. You can check out the art displays that showcase the fantastic works of some local artists. They display a rich cultural heritage and provide a detailed history of the island’s history and traditions. There are also dedicated play areas, where your children can enjoy while you relax.
3. Shop For souvenirs
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The Penang International Airport shops highlight Penang’s artisan crafts, from traditional batik textiles to beautifully crafted handmade jewellery. Be sure to explore these unique local creations, which serve as excellent souvenirs to cherish your trip. By purchasing these items, you’ll be supporting local artisans and bringing home a tangible piece of Penang to remember your trip by.
Places To Visit Near Penang International Airport
1. Snake Temple
Photo: Ltbdl / Wikimedia Commons
As the name suggests, this intriguing destination in Penang, Malaysia, is a place of residence of gracefully crawling snakes on the sacred grounds where a revered Buddhist monk’s legacy was recognised and established in 1805. The official name of this temple is Hock Kin Keong, also known as Cheng Hoon Giam or the Temple of Azure Clouds. Wagler’s Pit Vipers were found to have crawled into the temple as soon as the construction was over. As it became a globally popular destination for tourists, the snakes were de-venomed for the safety of visitors.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
2. Penang National Park
Photo: Syed Abdul Khaliq / Wikimedia Commons
At the Northwest corner of Penang Island, you will find this beautiful National Park, busting with biodiversity. It is the smallest National Park in Malaysia, covering approximately 1,213 hectares of land and water bodies. The park was established in 2003, and it has a wide variety of ecosystems, including mangrove forests, sandy beaches, and a seasonal meromictic lake. You can explore among the 417 flora and 143 species of fauna.
While strolling around this beautiful National Park, do not miss the long-tailed macaques, dusky leaf monkeys, hawksbill turtles, and olive ridley sea turtles.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: April to August
3. Queensbay Mall
Photo: Bindydad123 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated in Bayan Lepas, Penang, Queensbay Mall is a key shopping hub that spans approximately 2.5 million square feet and features over 400 shops across five floors. The mall offers a mix of international brands, including Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Guess, and Levi’s, catering to diverse shopping preferences.
Originally the site of the abandoned Bayan Bay Mall Project, Queensbay Mall was revitalised by CP Group and opened to the public in 2006. Today, it is a vibrant destination for locals and tourists, making it a must-visit spot in Penang for shopping and leisure.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM
4. Penang War Museum
Photo: Gula Kapas / Wikimedia Commons
The Penang War Museum in Bukit Batu Maung, Penang, is the largest in Southeast Asia. The museum showcases a variety of historical items and features unique attractions like underground tunnels and ammunition bunkers. These elements provide visitors with a look into Penang’s challenging history during the war. The museum was restored and opened to the public in 2002 by its founder, Jahari Shafie. You can see old cannons, military tunnels, living quarters, cooking areas, and places where soldiers were stationed.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: December to February
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of the Trip:
The cost of a trip to Penang International Airport varies based on factors like departure location, booking time, season, and airline choice. On average, one-way airfare from major international hubs ranges between $100 to $450 (₹8,000 to ₹35,000). Prices may be lower with budget airlines or promotional fares and higher during peak seasons. It’s advisable to book in advance and compare fares on travel platforms for the best deals. Additional costs like baggage fees and layovers may apply.
Tips For Travellers:
- Flight prices fluctuate, so booking in advance helps secure lower fares.
- Ensure you have the necessary visa or travel authorization before departure.
- Follow baggage rules and pack essentials like travel adapters and local currency.
- Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, but public transport is a cost-effective option.
- Get a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for hassle-free communication.
- Penang is a food paradise, so don’t miss out on its famous street food.
- Penang has a tropical climate, so pack light clothing and an umbrella.
- Arrange transport in advance, especially for late-night or early-morning flights.
In conclusion, Penang International Airport serves as a vital hub for both domestic and international travel, providing essential connectivity to the region. Its modern facilities and range of transport options, make it convenient for travellers. Beyond the airport, visitors can explore an array of attractions that showcase Penang’s rich culture and natural beauty. Now that you know all about the Penang International Airport, plan a trip to Malaysia with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Aman Uttam / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
