Butterworth Travel Guide
Butterworth is found on mainland Malaysia, opposite Penang. It is a relatively small town and much more industrial than other towns within close proximity, but it also received a lot tourists on their way to or from Penang.
- Worth It?
- Despite its local charm and undeveloped appeal, many people prefer to pass through on their way to Penang.
- What to Do
- sightseeing, enjoying the local cuisine, shopping at the cheap markets and local shops, sampling local brew at the street side bars, visiting the bird park.
- Best Time to Go
- June, July and August see the weather at its best.
- How Long?
- Two days is more than enough for most people. The majority of visitors rarely stay overnight.
- Trivia
- while it may not be a major tourist destination, Butterworth boasts the largest bird park in the country.
It is the main ferry hub for journeys across the Penang Straits and the last stop for all bus and train passengers wanting to cross to Penang. This in itself ensures that the town is prosperous and does not have to work very hard to keep visitors.
The main downside to the city is that it is not very welcoming. People arrive here whether they like it or not if they want to get to Penang. This knowledge has all but halted the need for a highly developed tourist infrastructure. However, there is enough to keep people entertained for a couple of days.
Most people simply pass through Butterworth without taking the time to have a look around the town. There might not be as many attractions as in other towns across Malaysia, but there are still sights worth seeing such as the bird park and the Temple of the Ninth Emperor God.
Restaurants and bars abound and while there are many catering to Western tastes, there are also many local establishments which are worth trying; if for nothing other than the experience. Locals are usually very welcoming and friendly, especially if you are frequenting their establishment. Do not be surprised if you have food thrust your way for free and if many of the locals stare at you.
Travel to Butterworth - Getting There
Most visitors arrive at Butterworth's bus and train stations as daily trains and buses arrive from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. The routes are straightforward and very cheap, taking just over five hours to reach Kuala Lumpur. There is an overnight train to and from Bangkok. Journeys are long, taking approximately 20 hours, but the trains are comfortable and have beds and air-conditioning.
Butterworth Things to Do
Butterworth Attractions
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