The Penang Upper Beach Street area is a great district for visitors to explore in George Town. This area has many beautiful buildings, each with their own individual architectural style, plus a number of other interesting spots. Check out all the best sights of the district with our walking tour.
1) State Assembly Building
The Penang State Assembly Building, also known as Dewan Undangan Negeri Pulau Pinang, was founded in the 19th Century, with further works in 1874. It is designed in the Anglo-Indian classical style, with an eye-catching orange roof and a well-groomed appearance overall. The building is where all the most important political decisions for the island are taken.
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2) Immigration Department
Founded in 1890, the two-story Immigration Department Building is situated near the Central Police Station. It’s decorated with key-stoning at the arcs, and is flanked by small columns with a balcony on the roof. Inside, people come for consultations and different meetings regarding immigration issues.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and kenttan84
3) Islamic Council Building
The Islamic Council Building was completed in 1907 in a neo-classical style with rich ornamentation. There are a lot of British administrative suites remained in the building, as it was once home to British administrative offices and suffered extensive damage during World War II. Nowadays, it houses the State Islamic Council. The building has a roof balcony, pretty round windows and a pleasant light blue exterior.
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4) Standard Chartered Building
Standing four stories high, the Standard Chartered Bank building was constructed in British Palladian style in 1875. By the time of Penang branch establishment, the bank already had branches in India, China and Australia. Recently renovated with elements of Classic and Art Deco style, the building remains Malaysia’s oldest bank.
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5) ABN-Amro Bank Building
The ABN-Amro Bank is a neo-classical style edifice from 1905. It was designed by Wilson & Neubronner. This Dutch bank has been involved with many financial operations central to the life and business of Penang.
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6) India House
The Art Deco style India House dates from 1937. Although somewhat rundown nowadays, in its heyday it was one of the city’s prettiest buildings. It continues to serve an important financial role in the lives of the people of Penang.
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7) Old OCBC Building
The Old OCBC Building is a clear example of the Art Deco style that was prevalent at the time of its construction in 1938. This three-story building’s façade is decorated with Shanghai plaster that gives the walls an unusual grey hue. The bank’s logo, which has remained unchanged since the 1930s, is recognized all over the world.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Abhijit Tembhekar
8) George Town Dispensary
The George Town Dispensary was built in 1923, and originally had only two stories before another floor was later added. The building grabs the eye with its round small windows. Medical practices and laboratories are located here.
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9) Wisma Kastam
Wisma Kastam, also called the Malayan Railway Building, is one of the most famous buildings in George Town and is considered a key part of Penang’s architectural heritage. On the top of the building is situated the clock tower. The building was controversial from the start because the British and Chinese differed sharply over its design. Look out for the interesting clock tower on its roof.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Marufish
10) Church Street Pier
The Church Street Pier, which was established in 1897, is a beautiful and romantic spot for visitors to come and walk along, while admiring the ships and cruise vessels. You'll have plenty of chances to take beautiful photos here of the pier and its picturesque surroundings. There’s also a nice dining area on site where you can have a snack after your walk. Swimming and fishing are not allowed.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Marufish