Explore the Historic Charm of Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse
Discover the historic Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse in George Town, a must-visit destination that blends maritime history with breathtaking coastal views.
Nestled in the heart of George Town, Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse stands as a sentinel of history, beckoning travelers with its commanding presence and captivating stories. Originally built in the late 18th century, this historic lighthouse is part of Fort Cornwallis, the largest fort in Malaysia, which played a crucial role in the British colonial era. As visitors approach the lighthouse, they are greeted by lush greenery and stunning views of the sea, creating a picturesque setting perfect for photography and relaxation. The lighthouse itself is an architectural marvel, with its whitewashed walls and distinctive design, making it a prominent feature along the coastline. Visitors can climb to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding area, where the azure waters meet the horizon. The fort's historical significance is showcased through informative plaques and exhibits that share intriguing tales of maritime adventures and the fort's strategic importance during its operational years. Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse is easily accessible and offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. It is not only a great spot for history enthusiasts but also for those seeking a tranquil environment to unwind. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this iconic landmark, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience in Penang.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning views from the top of the lighthouse.
- Check for any special events or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort grounds and climbing the lighthouse.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area, including the historical exhibits nearby.
A brief summary to Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse (Rumah Api Fort Cornwallis/ஃபோர்ட் கார்ன்வாலிஸ் கலங்கரை விளக்கம்)
- 4, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, Georgetown, Penang, 10200, MY
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, you can easily reach Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse by navigating to George Town. Use your GPS or a map app, and enter '4, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang' as your destination. Once in George Town, look for parking spots in the vicinity as street parking may be limited. The lighthouse is located within the Fort Cornwallis complex, and you can walk to the lighthouse once you park.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To get to Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse via public transport, take Rapid Penang Bus No. 101, 102, or 103 from various locations on the island. These buses will take you to the bus terminal near George Town. Once you arrive at the bus terminal, it is a short 10-minute walk to Fort Cornwallis. Head towards Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, and follow the signs or use a map app to guide you to the entrance of the fort.
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Walking from Nearby Attractions
If you are visiting nearby attractions such as the City Hall or the Esplanade, you can easily walk to Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse. From City Hall, head towards the Esplanade, and then follow the coastal path to the fort. It's about a 15-minute walk, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Look for the entrance to Fort Cornwallis, and once inside, the lighthouse is located towards the waterfront.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services
You can also opt for a taxi or ride-hailing service like Grab. Simply request a ride to 'Fort Cornwallis, 4, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200'. The driver will take you directly to the entrance of the fort, making it a convenient option if you're traveling with luggage or prefer not to walk. The fare will depend on your starting location, so make sure to check the app for an estimate.
Attractions Nearby to Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse (Rumah Api Fort Cornwallis/ஃபோர்ட் கார்ன்வாலிஸ் கலங்கரை விளக்கம்)
- Fort Cornwallis
- Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower
- Georgetown Cruise Terminal
- Padang Kota Lama (Esplanade)
- Penang Esplanade
- Esplanade Walkway
- The House of Yeap Chor Ee
- Esplanade Sea Wall Heritage Trail
- Penang 3D Trick Art Museum
- Swettenham Pier Penang
- Penang Tourist Information and Interaction Center - MWTGA
- Penang Town Hall
- The Whiteaways Arcade
- Esplanade Viewspot
- Penang Heritage Trust
Landmarks nearby to Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse (Rumah Api Fort Cornwallis/ஃபோர்ட் கார்ன்வாலிஸ் கலங்கரை விளக்கம்)
- Jubilee Clock Tower (Menara Jam Jubli/ ஜூபிலி கடிகார கோபுரம்/ 银禧钟楼)
- DUN Penang Heritage Building
- Syed Putra Heritage Building
- The Cenotaph War Memorial (Tugu Cenotaph/வெறுங்கல்லறை,பினாங்கு)
- Downing Street (Lebuh Downing/ டவுனிங் சாலை)
- King Street (Heritage Building Area)
- George town world heritage site
- Chung Keng Kwee Heritage Building
- Logan Memorial
- Farquhar Street
- Penang Harbour
- Queen Street (Lebuh Queen /குயின் தெரு)
- Harmony Street Heritage Hindu Temple
- Year 1908, The Oldest Fire Station
- Malaysian Man In A Flag Shirt Mural