Introduction

Penang Hill is interesting for its historical and ecological significance and makes a pleasant hill getaway .The Hill stands on the northern part of the island, and at approximately 800m above sea level, it is the island's highest point. The air is cleaner here, and though most visitors are day trippers, there are a few bungalows for those wishing to spend the night. The local population totals about 1000.

History
This is Malaysia's oldest hill resort dating to 1800. When the British established Penang as a trading post in 1786, a hill station was sought as a retreat from the balmy lowlands for the gentry. The highest point was chosen and in 1922, a funicular railway designed by A.R. Johnson of F.M.S Railway, provided the means of transport. The first railway car now grounded, rests on display at the top of the hill. In the olden days Penang Hill was known as Bukit Bendera (Flag Hill) because the hill was used for signalling flags.

Today, Swiss-built funicular railway cars transport visitors to the top of the hill where legacies of the past are reflected in roads, bungalows and hillocks named after the early residents.