Explore The Hidden Gem of Penang at Balik Pulau

Discover the hidden gems of rural Penang in Balik Pulau. Experience the lush greenery of endless paddy fields while sipping nutmeg juice and savoring tasty banana cakes in the LoveUU cafe. Tantalize your taste buds with the unique aroma of Penang Assam Laksa in the heart of Balik Pulau. Admire the works of arts of Julia Volchkova and other artists around Balik Pulau. Catch a spectacular sunset at Malindo Beach during our evening tour.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   20 min

   In 1854, a small but growing Catholic community in Balik Pulau, Penang, were finally able to celebrate mass in a proper church building after almost a decade when the first Eucharist was celebrated by French missionary, Rev. Fr. Ducotey in an attap hut. Today, with a much larger and still growing Catholic community, the church building, while retaining its original form, has been enhanced and supplemented by a parish house, a grotto, a funeral parlour and a formation centre, all within a natural garden-like setting. In 2014, the Church of the Holy Name of Jesus (HNJ) Balik Pulau celebrated its 160th parish anniversary and continues to serve the parishioners of both Balik Pulau and Penang Island.

2. 2

   Balik Pulau

   30 min

   Balik Pulau is a quaint town in the southwestern part of Penang Island lost half way between the airport and fishing villages. Better known for fruit farms, it is an unlikely place to look for street art. Perhaps unfairly, but one would think that younger generation would be looking somewhere else to hang out and, subsequently, leave a visual footprint of their presence. Julia Volchkova, a talented Russian artist, left her distinct mark there too. Balik Pulau Container Art is an art installation in Balik Pulau, Penang. It comprises disused containers that are painted with mural on one side. The art installation is at Kampung Terang, off Jalan Pulau Betong. It was installed as part of the Penang International Container Art Festival 2020. The artists involved were Leonard Show, Aries Kong and Marat Danilyan. The artwork celebrates the farming community of Balik Pulau.

3. 3

   Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory

   30 min

   This Ghee Hup Nutmeg Factory is run by Mr. Chang Kun Mim. It is located at Balik Pulau (of the Teluk Bahang area) in Penang. Mr. Chang has revolved in this business since he was 15 in 1953. His factory processes pickled nutmeg, pickled papaya and banana chips (the banana chips is very delicious!).

4. 4

   Stop 4

   20 min

   Sungai Pinang is a Chinese village in Balik Pulau, Penang. Not to be confused with Kuala Sungai Pinang, a separate village, it is located at the junction of Jalan Sungai Rusa, Jalan Pantai Acheh and Jalan Teluk Bahang. The village has a Chinese primary school and a Malay primary school. There are pre-war shophouses lining the streets in the village. The name Sungai Pinang also refers to the river that gives the place its name. It flows westward from the central hills of Penang Island to the Straits of Malacca. This is a different river from the Sungai Pinang that flows eastwards through Jelutong.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   10 min

   View art drawn on containers (Container Art) in the middle of green paddy fields

6. 6

   Stop 6

   15 min

   Take wefies, selfies and group photos of the Stairway to Heaven at this scenic spot where the river meets the sea

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.