Balik Pulau offers a captivating escape from the bustling city life, presenting a blend of untouched natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and genuine rustic charm. This enchanting locale, whose name translates to "back of the island," is a treasure trove of scenic countryside views, traditional villages, and verdant agricultural lands.
As you meander through winding roads lined with lush greenery, you will encounter sprawling orchards, organic farms, and the warmth of local communities preserving age-old traditions and crafts.
Balik Pulau is a haven for those seeking a more laid-back and authentic experience. Here, the air carries the fragrance of fruit orchards and the sounds of nature replace the noise of city traffic. Each visit offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the townsfolk and an opportunity to partake in a variety of activities.
From engaging in nature adventures to exploring local farms, let’s explore 15 fun things to do in Balik Pulau, specially curated by Traveloka for you!
Step into the vibrant world of Tropical Fruit Farm Penang, where you can explore an extensive plantation that cultivates over 250 types of tropical and subtropical fruit trees. Join a guided tour to learn about the different fruits from knowledgeable guides, taste freshly picked produce, and enjoy a refreshing fruit juice at the end of your visit. The farm also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and sea, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Audi Dream Farm is a delightful destination for families and eco-tourists. This integrated farm allows visitors to interact with a variety of animals, such as goats, rabbits, and birds. You can feed the animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and relax in the cafe that serves organic dishes prepared with ingredients sourced directly from the farm. Don’t miss the chance to buy some organic products from the on-site store to take a piece of your experience home.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Balik Pulau by joining a countryside cycling tour. These guided tours offer a unique opportunity to pedal through rustic villages, lush paddy fields, and past traditional Malay houses. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and landscape at a leisurely pace. The tours are suitable for all ages and provide a refreshing perspective on the rural side of Penang.
Penang Balik Pulau Countryside Cycling Tour
8.0/10
Balik Pulau
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Discover the serene beauty of Pantai Pasir Panjang, a hidden beach known for its soft white sands and clear waters. This secluded spot is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite book, or just soak up the sun and sounds of the gentle waves.
No visit to Balik Pulau is complete without trying the local cuisine at the town market. Famous for its Laksa, a spicy noodle soup, the market also offers a variety of traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian dishes. Explore the stalls, interact with local vendors, and taste some of the freshest seafood, fruits, and spices that the region has to offer.
For the adventurers, hiking up Bukit Pulau Betong promises rewarding views and a good workout. The trail leads you through a dense jungle before opening up to spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. It’s a moderately challenging hike, suitable for those with some hiking experience.
Join a local batik workshop where you can learn the art of Malaysian batik painting. These workshops offer a hands-on experience in dyeing and decorating your own batik fabric, guided by skilled artisans. It’s a wonderful way to bring back a personalized souvenir and appreciate an important part of Malaysian cultural heritage.
Balik Pulau is renowned for its durian orchards. Depending on the season, you can join a durian tasting tour to sample various types of this unique fruit, known as the "King of Fruits." Learn about the cultivation techniques and discover the distinct flavors and textures that make durian a beloved delicacy in Malaysia.
For art enthusiasts, the Balik Pulau Art Gallery offers a glimpse into the local art scene. The gallery features works from local artists, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and crafts that reflect the cultural diversity and natural beauty of the area. It's a quiet spot to enjoy some creative inspiration and perhaps purchase a piece to remember your trip.
Experience a peaceful day of fishing at Sungai Burung Dam. This area is known for its calm waters and abundant fish, making it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and the thrill of catching your own dinner, surrounded by nature.
Delve into the heart of local life at Gertak Sanggul, a traditional fishing village located on the southwestern coast of Penang. Here, you can observe fishermen returning with their daily catch, explore the rustic wooden piers, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood at local restaurants overlooking the sea. The village is also a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts, offering picturesque scenes of boats against the backdrop of stunning sunsets.
The Saanen Dairy Goat Farm offers a unique agricultural experience where visitors can learn about goat farming in Malaysia. This farm specializes in breeding Saanen goats, a breed known for their high-quality milk. Visitors can tour the facilities, milk a goat, and even sample some of the delicious goat milk ice cream made on-site. It's an educational and fun visit for families, especially those with young children.
Immerse yourself in Malaysian cuisine by taking a cooking class right in the heart of Balik Pulau. Local chefs will teach you how to prepare traditional dishes using ingredients sourced from nearby markets and farms. You'll learn about the spices and techniques that make Malay, Chinese, and Indian food uniquely delicious. At the end of the class, enjoy a meal you've helped prepare, a tasty reward for your culinary efforts.
Just a short drive from Balik Pulau, Teluk Bahang is an excellent spot for bird watching. The area is rich in biodiversity, hosting a variety of migratory and local bird species throughout the year. Bring your binoculars and look out for exotic birds like the Black-naped Oriole, the White-throated Kingfisher, and various species of sunbirds. The peaceful surroundings and the sound of bird calls create a soothing nature experience.
While primarily known for its durians, Bao Sheng Durian Farm also offers a fascinating insight into the cultivation of nutmeg, a spice that has been grown in the region for centuries. Take a guided tour to see how nutmeg trees are cultivated and learn about the process from flowering to harvest. You can also try various nutmeg products such as preserves, syrups, and candies. It’s an aromatic adventure that highlights the diverse agricultural heritage of Balik Pulau.
Balik Pulau offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxing activities that make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Penang. So, what are you waiting for? Book your flight now to Malaysia with Traveloka and explore more exciting activities that might be your best memorable experience! Don’t forget to also book your hotel with the best deals and promotions in Traveloka that you might not find anywhere else.
Also read: Exploring the Armenian Street in Penang
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