Things To Do
in Bukit Mertajam
Bukit Mertajam is a bustling suburban town in Central Seberang Perai on Penang’s mainland, known for its lively markets, humble shophouses and a strong local community. The town is anchored by the well-known St. Anne’s Church, which draws pilgrims each year, and the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest, a popular green escape with a small summit and jungle trails. Local life blends Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, reflected in its street food, temples, mosques and markets.
Bukit Mertajam is an affordable, convenient base for exploring mainland Penang and for quick trips across the Penang Bridge to George Town and the island’s attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic St. Anne's Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. After exploring the church, stroll through the quaint streets of Bukit Mertajam, taking in the charming colonial buildings and local shops. Stop by a traditional kopitiam for a breakfast of kaya toast and local coffee to fuel your adventures.
In the afternoon, head to the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Park for a leisurely walk or a picnic under the shade of lush trees. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the sound of nature, perhaps even spotting some local wildlife. Afterward, visit the nearby Bukit Mertajam Hill for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
As the sun sets, make your way to the vibrant night market where you can taste a variety of delicious street foods. Try local delicacies like char kway teow and satay while soaking in the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter. End your evening with a stroll, savoring the flavors and sights of Bukit Mertajam under the night sky.
Begin your day by visiting the famous Mengkuang Dam, a tranquil spot ideal for a morning walk and enjoying the fresh air. Afterward, head to the nearby Tow Boo Keong Temple, known for its stunning architecture and intricate statues that reflect the local culture. Take your time to explore the temple grounds and learn about the significance of the rituals conducted here.
In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Buddhist temple of Kuan Yin Temple where you can admire the beautiful statues and serene environment. Participate in a local prayer session or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. After your visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling Hokkien noodles and other local specialties.
As night falls, attend a local cultural performance or festival if available, where you can witness traditional dance and music. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where you can feast on freshly caught fish and prawns. Conclude your evening with a walk around the temple grounds, illuminated by soft lights that create a magical ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short Grab/taxi ride (within town) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel / guesthouse (per night) | $25-45 |
| 🛒Market groceries (basic weekly) | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, affordable local food and markets
- Convenient base for exploring Penang island and mainland attractions
- Green spaces and accessible short hikes (Bukit Mertajam Hill)
- Warm, welcoming multicultural community
- Limited nightlife and boutique accommodations compared with George Town
- Hot, humid weather year-round with frequent rain during monsoon season
- Public transport options are more limited—best explored with a car or Grab
- Some attractions close on weekdays or have limited opening hours
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does this cost?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya tidak faham" - I don't understand
- "Boleh tolong?" - Can you help (please)?
Places to Visit in Bukit Mertajam
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking church complex with colonial-era architecture and lively events during the annual feast—good for architectural and event photography.
Jungle trails and a viewpoint near the summit offer panoramic shots of the town and surrounding paddy fields—great at sunrise or late afternoon.
Bustling markets are ideal for candid street photography: vendors, colorful produce and food preparation scenes.
Rows of heritage shophouses, neon shopfronts and everyday street scenes provide atmospheric urban frames, especially in the early morning light.
Food in Bukit Mertajam
Bukit Mertajam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A wok-fried flat rice noodle dish with soy, prawns, cockles and Chinese sausage—found at many hawker stalls and early-morning kopitiams.
Must-Try!
A rich, aromatic prawn broth noodle soup topped with prawns, pork slices and bean sprouts—seek out specialty stalls in the market area.
Rice served with a choice of curries and side dishes—available at local open-front eateries and small restaurants for a hearty meal.
Seasoned minced pork rolls, deep-fried or braised, often served with dipping sauce—common at weekend markets and hawker centres.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A typical Malaysian wet market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks and nearby food stalls that serve breakfast and lunch; great for candid street photography and tasting local fare.
Rotating night markets in different neighbourhoods offer a wide range of street food, grilled seafood, desserts and local crafts—perfect for sampling multiple dishes at a low cost.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes where required, dress modestly in mosques and temples, and ask before photographing worshippers. During St. Anne’s festival, be mindful of pilgrim activities.
A simple 'salam' (handshake/hello) or slight nod works; always use the right hand for giving/receiving items. Politeness and soft-spoken conversation are valued.
Take off shoes in some shops or houses when requested; public displays of anger are frowned upon. Queuing etiquette is informal but orderly behaviour is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Bukit Mertajam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected in Malaysia; small tips or rounding up the bill are appreciated for exceptional service. Restaurants sometimes include a service charge (10%), so check the bill before tipping extra.
Cash (Malaysian ringgit) remains common at markets and small stalls. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted at malls, restaurants and hotels. E-wallets like GrabPay, Boost and Touch ‘n Go eWallet are popular and convenient for taxis and local shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This brings more frequent heavy rain and occasional localized flooding; expect humid and wet days with cooler evenings compared to the rest of the year. Carry a waterproof jacket and plan outdoor activities for mornings when rain is lighter.
Short, unpredictable storms and variable weather; mornings can be calm with strong midday thunderstorms. Good for fewer crowds but be prepared for sudden showers.
Generally drier than the northeast monsoon but still humid and warm; afternoons may see isolated showers. This is a convenient time for outdoor activities and day trips across the Penang Bridge.
Temperatures are tropical year-round (hot and humid); lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection are always recommended.
Bukit Mertajam at Night
Hiking in Bukit Mertajam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A local, accessible trail network with a short ascent to a viewpoint—suitable for morning hikes, birdwatching and light trail running.
A taller peak in nearby Kedah (about 1–1.5 hours’ drive) with more challenging trails, waterfalls and panoramic views—good for a day trip for experienced hikers.
Located on Penang island (drive across the bridge), the park offers coastal and jungle treks to secluded beaches and a canopy walk—combine with a day trip to the island for varied terrain.
Trails near Sungai Petani (a short drive away) provide additional options for trekking, rural scenery and local villages.
Airports
How to reach Bukit Mertajam by plane.
The main airport serving Penang island, about a 30–50 minute drive from Bukit Mertajam depending on traffic; accessible via the Penang Bridge and offers domestic and regional international flights.
Smaller regional airport in Kedah (Alor Setar), roughly 60–90 minutes’ drive north depending on traffic; useful for some domestic connections.
Malaysia’s main international gateway 4–5 hours by road or a quick flight to Penang; an option if arriving from long-haul international flights with many carrier choices.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Malay (Bumiputera) communities form a substantial portion of the population, with strong cultural presence in mosques, Malay eateries and community life.
Ethnic Chinese communities are prominent in commerce, temples and food culture—contributing to the town’s many kopitiams and hawker traditions.
Indian communities add to the town’s cultural mix through restaurants, temples and festivals; Indian Muslim (mamak) eateries are popular evening spots.
There are also migrant worker communities from neighboring countries who contribute to the local labour force and cultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A hugely popular recreational and competitive sport across Malaysia with local courts and community centres offering casual and club play.
Widely played at schools and community fields; small-sided futsal courts are common for casual evening games.
A traditional Southeast Asian court sport (kick volleyball) seen in schools and community groups—often played in open courts or during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bukit Mertajam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are less prominent; order vegetable fried rice, tofu dishes, roti canai without curry meat or Chinese vegetable noodle dishes. Inform vendors using the phrase 'saya vegetarian' and expect to ask about fish sauce/stock.
Many Malay and Muslim-run stalls provide halal food. Look for halal signs or ask; nasi kandar outlets are sometimes non-halal so check first.
Street-food vendors may not be able to accommodate complex allergies—communicate clearly, avoid cross-contact where possible, and carry medication if you have severe allergies.