Things To Do
in Bukit Mertajam

Bukit Mertajam is a vibrant town located in the Penang state of Malaysia, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Nestled at the foothills of Bukit Mertajam Hill, it offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences. The town is famous for its local food scene, historical sites, and friendly community.

With a growing number of attractions, Bukit Mertajam is becoming a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Bukit Mertajam
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bukit Mertajam Hill for a morning hike and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby St. Anne's Church, a significant pilgrimage site, followed by lunch at a local hawker center where you can sample various dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town center, visiting local shops and markets, and have dinner at a recommended restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Bukit Mertajam Museum to learn about the town’s history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to one of the local parks for a picnic lunch and some relaxation, followed by a visit to a nearby art gallery.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife with a visit to a local café or bar, enjoying live music or cultural performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$3 - $5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🛏️Hotel Night Stay$20 - $40
Coffee$1 - $2
🍺Beer at Bar$2 - $4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and diverse food options.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Malay speakers.
  • "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
  • "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
  • "Apa Khabar?" - How Are You?
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Bukit Mertajam

Visit one of these nice places.

Bukit Mertajam Hill

A scenic location for capturing breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding landscapes.

St. Anne's Church

A beautiful church with stunning architecture, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

The Old Town Area

Quaint streets filled with historical buildings and colorful murals, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bukit Mertajam

Bukit Mertajam is a culinary paradise that offers a variety of local dishes that reflect the diverse culture of Malaysia.

Bukit Mertajam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Kandar

A delicious rice dish served with a variety of curries and side dishes, originating from Penang.

Must-Try!

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried flat rice noodles with shrimp, bloody cockles, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts, known for its smoky flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Night Market (Pasar Malam)

A vibrant night market where you can find an array of street food stalls offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bukit Mertajam experiences a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) year-round. The wet season typically lasts from May to October, bringing heavy rain and thunderstorms, while the dry season from December to February sees less rain and more sunshine. It is advisable to carry an umbrella during the rainy season and dress appropriately for the heat during the dry months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders and authority figures by greeting them first and using polite language.

Dress Modestly

When visiting places of worship, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bukit Mertajam is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, safeguarding personal belongings, and being cautious with street food. Emergency numbers for police, fire, and medical services are easily accessible.

Tipping in Bukit Mertajam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - February)

Expect sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Monsoon Season (May - October)

Frequent rain showers are common; it's advisable to carry an umbrella and to plan indoor activities.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

Experience vibrant festivities and cultural celebrations, with plenty of food and events in the town.

Festive Season (Hari Raya, Deepavali)

Witness beautiful decorations and local celebrations that showcase the town's multicultural heritage.

Nightlife Guide

Bukit Mertajam at Night

The nightlife in Bukit Mertajam is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of local bars, cafes, and night markets. Many places offer live music and cultural performances, creating a lively atmosphere for socializing. The town is not overly crowded, making it a comfortable environment for both locals and visitors to enjoy their evenings.

Hiking in Bukit Mertajam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Mertajam Hill Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Bukit Mertajam Hill, offering scenic views and a chance to explore the local ecosystem.

Kampung Selamat Trail

This trail offers a moderate hike through lush greenery and is ideal for those looking to explore nature without venturing too far from town.

Airports

How to reach Bukit Mertajam by plane.

Penang International Airport (PEN)

Located approximately 30 km from Bukit Mertajam, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bukit Mertajam is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where many attractions, shops, and eateries are located close to each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available at major intersections. However, when exploring areas outside the central district, visitors may need to rely on public transportation or taxis for convenience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chinese Community

The Chinese community plays a significant role in the cultural and economic landscape of Bukit Mertajam, contributing to local businesses and festivals.

Malay Community

The Malay community is integral to the region's cultural identity, with many traditions and customs rooted in their heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Bukit Mertajam, with many local teams and community matches taking place throughout the year.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played and enjoyed in the region, with numerous courts available for public use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bukit Mertajam can be moderate, especially during peak hours, as it is a growing town with increasing numbers of vehicles. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are readily available. For a more local experience, many residents use motorcycles or bicycles to navigate the streets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bukit Mertajam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly.

Halal

Most food establishments in Bukit Mertajam are halal-friendly, but always check for certification.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Bukit Mertajam are accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for both locals and visitors. The town has both public and private healthcare facilities, providing a range of medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to know the location of the nearest hospital in case of emergencies.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide