Balik Pulau

 

Overview

You've not been to durian heaven if you've not visited Balik Pulau, located on the Penang island, some 26km away from the Georgetown City centre, especially between May and July.

Retaining the quiet life and set in one of the most scenic spots of the island, it is quite apt that the towns name is literally translated to "back of the island".

Despite its idyllic tranquil settings, Balik Pulau still has a number of tourist attractions which include its durian orchards that is said to encompass a land area of some 1,868 hectares, and other fruit farms, shrimp paste making factories, and homestay offers.

The town, like the rest of the island, offers its fair share of food galore, views of paddy fields, and fishing villages including Kampung Sungai Burung, Gertak Sanggul and Teluk Kumbar.

In 2010, the state government said it had marked a 200-acre land within the town to become an education hub with the establishments of higher learning institutions.

Amenities and Facilities

Balik Pulau now houses the Prince of Wales Island International School, besides a religious school, kindergartens, national schools include SMJK Sacred Heart, and vernacular schools. The town also hosts many clinics and hotels aplenty for its visitors.

Accessibility and Transportation

Rapid Penang buses that ply around the island route provide a cheap mode of transportation into the town of Balik Pulau. Taxis are also available for hire to get there.