The Habitat, Penang

The Habitat is a fairly new but welcomed attraction in Penang. Soft-launched in 2016, the Habitat is located on top of Penang Hill and is designed to give nature lovers an appreciation of the rainforest and the biodiversity that lives there. It also has phenomenal views of the island!

Besides upgrading the existing nature trail in the rainforest, the Habitat has also created new attractions that complement nature. One of the primary attractions is the Canopy Walkway, which they call the Langur Way, so named after the Dusky Leafed Langurs, that reside amongst the treetops. Besides walking at the same level as the treetops, you also get spectacular views of the forested valleys and the sea beyond.

The other main attraction is the Curtis Crest. Located on top of the plateau, this metal structure is the highest viewing point on the island. Named after the botanist Charles Curtis, this oval shaped walkway offers unparalleled 360 degree views of the whole island, including George Town.

Then there is of course the nature trail that connects all of the above to each other. As you walk along the trail, you can see the various endemic plants and if you are lucky some of the fauna that live here. Various gardens punctuate the nature trail, to give points of interest and there are places to stop like the Giant Swings.

Besides this, it is also possible to do adventure activities such as the Flight of the Colugo, which is basically a zip-lining experience through the jungle. However this requires prior booking. Similarly it is also possible to do a Sunset Walk.

To get to the Habitat, once you get off the Funicular Railway at the Upper Station, walk towards the Penang Hill Square. At the square, there should be a manned desk for the Habitat. Talk to the guy and he will arrange for the buggy to send you to the Habitat. Alternatively, you can also chose to walk along Summit Road until you get to the entrance of the Habitat. Should only take you about 10 minutes walk.

Once at the entrance gate to the Habitat, walk along the pathway.

You will eventually reach the Habitat Shop and Cafe. Buy your tickets here and enter.

Walk along the nature trail and enjoy the rainforest.

You will come across a few of these giant swings. Sit and enjoy the views.

View of the island.

The Langur Way Canopy Walk brings you up amongst the treetops.

Some of the trees must be pretty old.

The walkway is high off the ground.

Some of the endemic flora.

Walking towards the climax.

The Curtis Crest.

Map of the Habitat shows you where you are.

 Climb up the Curtis Crest.

Panoramic views, Jerejak island in the distance.

You can complete a 360 degree view of the island up here.

The steel structure of the Crest is an attraction in itself.

Looking at the staircase down.

View of Bel Retiro, The Governer's House built in 1789.

Orchids.

Some of the fauna you might see in the Habitat, if you are lucky.

View of George Town and Butterworth.

The Habitat is a welcome new addition to the attractions on Penang Hill, and will give you an appreciation of the rainforest.


The Habitat Penang Hill

Address: The Habitat Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, 11300 Penang, Malaysia.
Telephone: +604 826 7677
Opening Hours: 9am to 5:30pm (standard) 5:30pm to 8pm (sunset walk)