Cool Down at the Top 10 Waterfalls in Penang – a Splash of Nature and Serenity Awaits!
It all began on a scorching afternoon when my hiking boots hit the forest trail in search of a little shade and some breeze. What I didn’t expect was the sound of rushing water ahead, guiding me straight to a waterfall that looked like something out of a dream!
That moment, standing ankle-deep in crystal-clear, cold pools with sunlight glinting off the falls, I felt peace and promised myself to explore all waterfalls in Malaysia.
Fast forward to now, and Penang has become one of my favorite spots for waterfall hiking. Penang’s waterfalls each come with their own magic because some are perfect for a quick dip, while others are worth the long trek.
So whether you’re chasing tranquillity, adventure, or just a place to cool off, this guide has you covered. Here’s my curated list of the top waterfalls in Penang that will give different experiences and will show you how amazing Mother Nature is!
Penang Waterfall Hill Temple
– Media credit: cznevill
Website: https://hebpenang.gov.my/waterfall-road-temple/
Phone: +601110032054
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM | 4:30 to 9:15 PM
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Beginner
Tucked above the Penang Botanic Gardens, the Waterfall Hill Temple isn’t just about its spiritual roots—it’s a spot where nature amplifies the experience. You’ll hear the gentle splash of the nearby waterfall before you even start the 513-step climb.
Please note that swimming is not allowed in the waterfall pools since they’re part of a religious site. Once you reach the top, the view opens up with a mix of greenery, colourful temple towers, and distant cityscapes.
The temple itself is rich with beauty, with its South Indian influence—vivid carvings, sacred turtles, and a calm presence that invites you to pause. While it gets busy during festivals like Thaipusam, on most days you’ll find it to be a serene escape perfect for quiet reflection or cultural detour.
| Pro tip: Try going early in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded—you’ll catch the morning mist over the hills and the soft glow of the temple, plus it’s the best time to hear the waterfall at its purest without the city sounds creeping in. |
Chin Farm Waterfall
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Intermediate
Chin Farm Waterfall feels like one of Penang’s better-kept secrets—hidden behind a nondescript side of a road near a car wash in Batu Ferringhi. You’ll need to walk a short 5-minute trail past some rugged terrain before you spot the cascading falls and take a dip in its refreshing pool.
This area is not a polished attraction, but if you’re the kind of person who finds beauty in raw, untouched landscapes, you’ll enjoy the tranquil vibe here. Despite its slightly messy approach, the waterfall itself is calming and photogenic.
You’ll likely have it to yourself or be sharing it with a few nature-loving locals and a troop of curious monkeys. Bring insect repellent and sturdy footwear, because the trail can get slippery and muddy, especially after rainfall.
| Pro tip: Look for the unmarked gravel road near the Bayview Beach Resort and take the turn next to the Indian restaurant. Once you spot the hidden lane, you’re already halfway to discovering one of Penang’s most peaceful waterfall hideouts. |
Batu Ferringhi Iron Waterfall
– Media credit: maipavel
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Intermediate to Difficult
Just a short 15-minute stroll from the busy streets of Batu Ferringhi, the Iron Waterfall is the kind of spot that reminds you how close nature is even in a tourist hotspot. Though the initial trail may seem unimpressive and a bit littered, you’ll enjoy it as you progress.
The real magic begins once you pass the old bridge and hear the sound of water echoing through the trees. The falls cascade gently over reddish rocks, thanks to the iron-rich water, giving the whole area a unique burnt-orange glow.
However, you can’t swim in because the waterfall and pools aren’t deep enough, but you can take off your shoes and enjoy the cooling waters. You might not see another soul during your visit, making it the perfect escape when you need a break from beach crowds.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye out for smooth, sun-warmed stones near the waterfall—they’re perfect for stretching out with a book or just soaking in the sounds of the jungle. It’s also a solid picnic spot if you pack light. |
Air Terjun Teruna Dara
– Media credit: being_harith
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Difficult
Located behind village homes and durian orchards, Air Terjun Teruna Dara rewards your effort with a refreshing curtain of cool water and the kind of peace you won’t get at the more well-trodden falls as you swim in.
The hike takes about 30 to 45 minutes uphill on a steady slope, but don’t worry—it’s not extreme, just enough to get your heart going. Once you spot the iron gate and start heading through the fruit trees, you’re on the right path.
The waterfall isn’t massive, but that’s exactly what makes it feel like a secret. You can access this spot through private land, and it’s the kind of place you want to claim for your group and spend an hour or two lounging in the stream.
| Pro tip: Bring a lightweight hiking stick or trekking pole. It’ll help you navigate the slippery sections, and it’s handy for gently warding off curious dogs along the way. |
Air Terjun Titi Kerawang
– Media credit: _lihuie_
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Beginner
Just a quick detour off the main road between Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang, Titi Kerawang is that easy-access spot.
It’s only a 5-minute walk from the car park, which means you don’t need to gear up for a hike. Just pack your slippers and maybe a change of clothes—and take the moment to love your surroundings because it can also be a form of meditation.
As of the moment, the pool had dried out and might be revived depending on the numbers and strength of the upcoming rains.
| Pro tip: Swing by early on a weekday morning for a rare chance to have the place to yourself. Stick around for a natural foot spa from the tiny fish that gather near the shallow when the crowd clears out. |
Air Terjun Sungai Ara
– Media credit: jpzul30
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Intermediate
Nestled into the backroads of a durian orchard, Air Terjun Sungai Ara gives you a little slice of wild Penang without needing a full-day trek. You’ll hear the water before you see and swim in it—just a short hike or bike ride from the entrance.
The walk itself feels like a retreat, especially in the evenings when the sun dips and the jungle starts to come alive. This waterfall spot isn’t as well-known as some others, so you’ve got a good shot at some peace and quiet.
On weekends, though, you might meet families setting up picnics or kids splashing in the stream. When you visit here, please bring your trash with you since many visitors used to leave their trash on site, so expect garbage as you explore this spot.
| Pro tip: For the best experience, hop on a motorbike if you’ve got one—the road is tight and winding, and it’s way less stressful than trying to squeeze a car through. Bring a small trash bag too, just in case—you’ll be doing nature a big favour. |
Carla’s Waterfall
– Media credit: raynechew
Fee: RM30.00
Difficulty: Intermediate
Carla’s Waterfall might not be on your radar as its entrance is also not visible unless you studied the area prior to your visit. The waterfall is like a thin, misty ribbon of water flowing over a massive 40-metre cliff into a small pond, surrounded by mossy boulders.
Even though it looks like something out of a nature painting, getting there is surprisingly easy if you’re already exploring Penang’s lesser-known trails.
What makes Carla’s stand out is its peaceful energy. The pools here are clear and clean—so don’t forget to bring your smartphone or camera with you so you can keep a souvenir of your visit here.
| Pro tip: Carla’s Waterfall makes a great stopover during a longer hike, so bring light gear you don’t mind carrying. And since the pond can get shallow during dry spells, it’s best visited a day or two after rainfall—just watch your step as the rocks can be super slick. |
Air Terjun Bayan Lepas
– Media credit: bernamaofficial
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Beginner
Air Terjun Bayan Lepas, also known by locals as Pak Lah Waterfall, holds a special place in Penang’s natural history. It was once a favourite weekend retreat for families—picnic mats sprawled under shady trees and kids playing in the cool pools.
This waterfall spot even welcomed a visit from Malaysia’s former Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, which speaks volumes about how treasured this waterfall once was.
Though it’s faded from the spotlight in recent years and abandoned already, you can still see the remnants of what made it magical. It’s all about the gentle cascades, leafy trails, and quiet natural corners that feel miles away from city life.
| Pro tip: If you’re a nature-lover or part of a local community group, this is a place worth revisiting not just for leisure, but to reconnect and maybe even contribute to its revival. Bring a trash bag with you, clean up a little, and imagine how stunning this spot could be with just a bit of collective care. |
Mount Elvira Waterfall
– Media credit: aidillhafez
Fee: Free
Difficulty: Difficult
Mount Elvira Waterfall is one of those quiet triumphs you earn after a solid hike through Penang’s greener hills. Starting near the Air Itam Dam, the trail takes you through a mixture of peaceful streams and views that make your effort feel worthwhile.
It’s not a casual stroll—expect steep gradients, rocky terrain, and a good dose of sweat before you complete the more than 3-hour hike. Once you reach the waterfall, tucked deep into the Bukit Elvira trail, you’ll find a surprisingly serene little oasis.
The cool stream flows over worn rocks, making it a refreshing spot to catch your breath and splash around after the climb. While the waterfall isn’t massive, it’s the remoteness and natural charm that make it special.
| Pro tip: The full trail is popular among mountain bikers too, so you’ll want to stay alert on the shared path. Try going early in the morning for cooler temps and a better chance of having the waterfall all to yourself. |
Bukit Hijau Waterfall
– Media credit: muhdbilal__
Fee: RM5.00
Difficulty: Intermediate
Bukit Hijau Waterfall used to be one of the most talked-about nature escapes in northern Malaysia. Known for its seven-tiered flow and emerald pools along Sungai Mempelam, it still whispers its magic through the trees.
Despite its current neglected state, there’s something undeniably serene about the cascading water, the cool forest air, and the buzz of jungle life. Hike up into the upper tiers and you’ll find clear, swimmable pools with fewer people around.
This waterfall is still visited by locals and adventurers because of its cool water and peaceful surroundings. Take note that swimming and taking a refreshing bath in the pools are safe and allowed.
| Pro tip: Bring a trash bag and some gloves—not just for your own use, but as a little help to the forest. You’ll feel twice as connected to the place knowing you helped keep it clean for the next waterfall chaser. |