Balik Pulau
A rural town in the southwest of Penang Island, known for its durian orchards, nutmeg and assam laksa. It is a popular spot to eat Musang King durian during durian season.
Balik Pulau lies in the southwest of Penang Island, surrounded by hills and rice fields, and retains the character of a traditional Malay kampung and a Chinese market town. This is Penang's durian-growing region, with dozens of family orchards scattered across the hillsides. During durian season, roughly June to August, you can visit an orchard and eat the fruit fresh from the tree. Musang King, Black Thorn, Red Prawn and other varieties are priced according to the market, and some orchards offer all-you-can-eat durian packages. The rest of the year, you can still sample nutmeg juice and dried nutmeg. The town's assam laksa is a local favourite. It takes about 40 minutes to drive from George Town. You can take the winding mountain road over the hills, with lookout points along the way. Buses 401 and 502 serve the town, but a hired car or taxi is best for reaching the orchards.
Opening hours
Orchard approx. 09:00–18:00 (durian season)
Nearby sights
- Kek Lok Si Temple
- Snake Temple (Temple of the Azure Cloud)
- The Habitat Penang Hill
- Penang Hill
- Penang War Museum
- Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
- ESCAPE Penang
- Penang Botanic Gardens