Getting to Penang and Getting Around, Malaysia

Penang's public transport system is efficient and getting around by taxis, buses or trishaws may be a fun and inexpensive way of catching the sights.

By Air
Penang is easily accessible by air with daily flights from major capitals of the region. It has direct links whit Singapore, Bangkok, Nagoyra, Medan, Xiamen (China) and Madras, operated by Malaysia Airlines, The airline also operates more than 20 flights daily between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The Penang International Airport is about 20 km from the city center. Taxis plying the route follow the coupon system by which fares between the airport and various destinations in Penang are fixed. Air-conditioned taxis and limousines charge higher fared. The Penang yellow Bus Co. operates and hourly service between the Airport and Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay|) in the city between 6.00 am to 10.00 pm daily (Bus No.83).

By Road
The opening of the Penang Bridge linking the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia to Penang Island has facilitated driving to Penang. A charge of RM 7.00 is levied on all classes of cars at the tool plaza in Perai on the mainland. No payment is required for traveling from the island to the mainland.

By Ferry
From Butterworth, it is necessary to take the ferry to Penang Island. The ferry service is available around the clock for both passengers and vehicles, Tickets are purchased at the Butterworth terminal and the rates are applicable for a return journey.

A flat rate of RM7.00 is charged for vehicles while passengers are charged RM0.60 per person.

By Rail
The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth takes approximately 6 hours, First and second class passengers travel in comfort in the air-conditioned coaches. Taking the train is a comfortable way to travel within the country and if affords one the opportunity to see a lot of the countryside. Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhand (KTM Bhd), (Malayan Railway) also operates regular services to Alor Setar, Padang Besar, Haadyai and Bangkok from Butterworth.

Getting Around

Penang's public transport system is efficient and moving around by taxis, buses or trishaws may be a fun and inexpensive way of catching the sights.

City Taxis
Most city taxis do not use the meter. You may either insist on the meter being turned on or agree on the price before you move off. Taxis normally charge between RM3.00 - RM6.00 for short distances within the city.

City Buses
Most of buses use coin machine to collect fares. The main bus terminals are Pengkalan Weld (ferry terminal) and KOMTAR (ground floor).

Transit Link (white and red)
Bus No:- 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 18. 28. 130. 202. 212. 353. 325. 361.	Air Itam Bagan Jermal Jelutong Jalan Yeap Chor Ee via Jalan Perak Jalan Masjid Negeri via Dhoby Ghaut Jalan Masjid Negeri via Jalan Patani Jalan Kebun Bunga (Botanical Garden) Penang Hill Railway (from Air Itam) Jalan Masjid Negeri via Jalan Penang/Jalan Dato' Keramat Kampung Melayu Taman Tun Saardon via Jalan Masjid Negeri Jelutong/Air Itam Village Bukit Mertajam (via Penang Bridge from Port Weld) Bukit Mertajam (via Penang Bridge from KOMTAR) Air Itam/Farlim Tanjung Bungah/Batu Ferringhi/Teluk Bahang Tanjung Bungah/Hillside (via Fettes Park) Balik Pulau Bukit Gedung Balik Pulau (via Air Itam)
Sri Negara Transport Services Co. (blue and yellow)
Bus No:- 131. 136 . 137.	Tanjung Tokong/Tanjung Bungah Port Weld to Pepper Estate Port Weld to Tanjong Tokong
Hin Bus (white and blue)
Bus No:- 93.	Batu Ferringhi/Teluk Bahang
Penang Yellow Bus (yellow)
Bus No:- 66. 67. 69. 77. 78. 83. 84. 86.	Port Weld to Balik Pulau (via Snake Temple) Port Weld to Gertak Sanggul Port Weld to Batu Maung Port Weld to Minden Heights Port Weld to Sungai Ara Port Weld to Penang International Airport Port Weld to Bayan Baru Port Weld to Mayang Pasir
Mini buses also ply various routes in the city, charging a flat rate of RM0.80

Trishaws
Besides the novelty of traveling in this three-wheeled vehicle, trishaws allow visitors the opportunity to enjoy the sights in Penang at a leisurely pace. You can also stop at any point to snap pictures or buy souvenirs. There is no standard fare and it would be wise to agree on the price before you get on the trishaw. For extended sightseeing, it is advisable to hire them by the hour.

Car Rental
If you wish to venture further afield at your own leisure, it might be a good idea to drive around yourself. Most major international and local car rental companies offer a good choice of vehicles and packages. So, arm yourself with a valid international driving license and a reliable road map and set forth for the adventure of your life. Remember that traffic travels on the left side of the road and that the speed limit varies on all roads.

Rent-a-Motorbike/Bicycle
Motorcycles and bicycles also offer inexpensive and fun ways of exploring the island. Stores along the hotel stretch of Batu Ferringhi and in the city offer them for hire.

Tours/Cruises
For those who wish to cover a bit of everything on limited time, there are many fascinating tours by air-conditioned coaches to famous landmarks around the island. Check with your hotel reception/tour desk for details on times and prices.

Round Island Tour
Includes visits to batik factories and fishing villages along Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang. It also covers Balik Pulau, the Snake Temple and Fort Cornwallis.

Hill and Temple Tour
The tour includes a ride up Penang Hill's funicular railway and visits to Kek Lok Si Temple which houses the pagoda of ten thousand Buddhas.

City Tour
Includes visit to the Botanical Gardens, Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram, the Kapitan Keling Mosque, the Waterfront, the Penang Museum and the Khoo Kongsi.

Sea Cruises
Most beach hotel also offer cruises to the uninhabited islands off Batu Ferringhi. Round island cruise are also available.