Summary
Set among green rice paddies and fruit plantations in a peaceful valley on Penang Island, Balik Pulau is a great place to escape the maddening traffic of Georgetown for an afternoon or longer. Although Georgetown and its famous food may steal much of the spotlight, Balik Pulau rarely fails to charm visitors looking for a little local culture in Penang.
Balik Pulau literally translates to “the back of the island.” While Georgetown’s sprawl dominates the northeast of Penang, Balik Pulau rests peacefully in the interior of the island. Identifying a single feature that gives Balik Pulau its enjoyable vibe is difficult. The charm may lie in the scattering of colonial-era buildings mingled with traditional houses on stilts or the enticing aroma of spices thriving in clean air. Regardless, tourism meshes flawlessly with daily life in this sleepy agricultural district.
Unique Balik Pulau Foods
Anyone arriving from Georgetown will surely have one thing in mind: food. Freshly grown fruits and spices create interesting twists on traditional dishes. Locally-fermented belacan—a potent shrimp paste—adds a distinct flavor to otherwise ordinary offerings.
- Durian: Balik Pulau is renowned for its durian fruit. If you have any interest in trying this aromatic yet intriguing fruit, Balik Pulau is the ideal place for such an experience. Many species of durians are cultivated here, ranging from sweet to a strong bitter taste—do not settle for sampling just one!
- Laksa: Different from typical laksa, Balik Pulau’s laksa is a rice noodle dish prepared in a savory, fish-based broth. For a sweeter taste, try laksa lemak made with coconut cream.
- Laksa Janggus: This unique dish is made from cashew nuts and is found in a restaurant of the same name on Jalan Bharu. Visitors can enjoy the scenery of cashew trees around this open-air dining spot.
- Other Food: If you desire a break from unusual flavors, local Malaysian Indian food restaurants offer delicious selections of Malaysian noodle dishes and other favorites.
Things to Do in Balik Pulau
Aside from indulging in local delicacies, Balik Pulau boasts enough interesting sites to occupy you for at least an afternoon. Most attractions are spread out over a six-mile area, making bicycle rentals a preferred option for exploring. If cycling isn’t your choice, plan at least two hours to stroll the main streets. Some noteworthy sites in Balik Pulau include:
- Belacan Factory: Visitors can witness how belacan shrimp paste is made at this small factory located on the eastern end of Jalan Pulau Betong.
- Sustainable Organic Farm: This eco-friendly fruit and vegetable farm run by Mr. Lui, a former engineer, offers insights into sustainable farming methods. An appointment is necessary.
- Fishing Village: Located just one kilometer east of Balik Pulau, Pulau Betong is a charming fishing village with colorful boats and local fishermen tending their nets.
- Rice Paddies: The picturesque green rice fields west of town are well worth a visit. Access the paddies by heading west on Jalan Sungai Nipah.
- Xuan Wu Chinese Temple: This historic bright-red Chinese temple, built in the 1800s, hosts traditional Chinese operas in March and July.
Shopping in Balik Pulau
The Stepping Stone Centre on Jalan Bharu operates as an NGO that supports local villagers with special needs. This venue features handicrafts, bags, and textiles all produced by local residents. Purchasing souvenirs here ensures that funds go back into the community.
Homestay in Balik Pulau
The best way to experience an overnight stay in Balik Pulau is to participate in a homestay in Kampung Sungai Korok. Tourists are welcomed into families’ traditional longhouses along the river, providing an opportunity to learn local cooking techniques.
Getting to Balik Pulau
The Rapid Penang buses offer a budget-friendly means of reaching attractions outside of Georgetown, including Balik Pulau. Fares typically cost under two dollars. Bus #401 or #401E travels from the Jetty terminal in Georgetown to Balik Pulau.
A day trip to Balik Pulau can be seamlessly combined with a visit to Kek Lok Si Temple and other popular sites in Bayan Lepas. Utilize bus #502 to reach Balik Pulau from Air Itam near the temple. Adventurous travelers may opt to hike into Balik Pulau from Air Itam reservoir—a two-hour trek mostly on hilly terrain with clearly marked trails.
When to Visit
The most visited months in Balik Pulau coincide with the fruit harvest—November and January—as well as the peak durian harvest from May to July. Additionally, Sundays are noteworthy for their special market days.
