Tan Li AnnLet’s be honest, Penang Hill has had its time in the spotlight. Cable cars, crowds, overpriced coffee at the top… we get it. It’s the go-to, the default, the “been there, done that” of trails in George Town. But if you’re craving something offbeat, a little less touristy, and a lot more character, Bukit Hijau is where you should hike.
Also read: 32 Fun And New Things to Do in Penang in 2025
Where is Bukit Hijau, and how do you get there?
A quick Google search will inform you that the Bukit Hijau, Cangkat Tembaga Hiking Trail is temporarily closed, but don’t be too quick to dismiss it. We found our way up just fine, not by defying signs or jumping fences, but by taking an alternative route that starts quietly and unassumingly at 4A Lorong Semarak Api 1. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery
It’s an unexpected start to a hike, with high-rise flats and laundry fluttering in the breeze, reminiscent of a 90s Hong Kong neighbourhood. But just minutes in, the concrete path melts into jungle, and you’ll feel miles away from city life.
Our Bukit Hijau hiking experience
We began our hike at around 8 am, which I highly recommend. The morning air was still slightly cool, and the sun hadn’t gone full roast-chicken yet, so we could still take in the flowers and the lush surroundings without regretting our life choices.
The trail eased us in gently, winding past durian trees and some other fruit we couldn’t name (but definitely pointed at enthusiastically like true urban explorers).
Just as we were getting into our stride, three stray dogs appeared and decided, without hesitation, that they would be joining us on our hike. Were they intimidating at first? A little. But once we got over the initial are-we-about-to-die moment, they turned out to be the best trail buddies you could ask for.
They’d run ahead to scout the path, then double back to check on us — the loyal little marshals we never knew we needed. It felt like we’d been adopted by a trio of retired hiking instructors who were slightly disappointed with our pace but too polite to say anything.
The trail itself was fairly manageable, not exactly a Sunday stroll, but you won’t need to train for it either. Some parts were steep enough that ropes had been set up to help with the ascent/descent. We took it slow, gripping the ropes like lifelines and wondering how our dog guides were handling it without thumbs (the answer: gracefully, of course).
You’ll also pass a landmark known as Romania Hill, a mini-peak along the way that serves as a good rest point. After that, it’s a short push to the peak.
At the summit, we were greeted by… a badminton court and a random collection of outdoor gym equipment. It was equal parts impressive and baffling. I mean, who comes up here and thinks, “Yeah, a few squats and pull-ups would really round this off.”
Don’t expect dramatic cliffs or a sky-high observation deck, but the view from the top of Bukit Hijau is still quietly impressive. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic glimpses of George Town framed by treetops. With a cool breeze and open space to rest, it’s the kind of summit that invites you to pause, breathe, and just enjoy the moment.
The descent was mostly uneventful, at least at first. We took a slightly different route down, just enough of a detour to keep things interesting. The steeper sections still required careful footing, but nothing too dramatic. The dogs were still with us, darting ahead and occasionally brushing past our legs, as if nudging us to pick up the pace.
Now, here’s the part no one prepared us for: chickens. Not one or two, not even a polite flock, we’re talking dozens. Free-roaming, proudly strutting, occasionally startled chickens pecking their way through the undergrowth like they owned the place. Honestly? They kind of did.
As we neared the end of the trail, the terrain evened out and the descent became gentler. Our pace relaxed, and we started chatting (or, more accurately, yapping) again. It was a peaceful end to the trail, one that made the whole hike feel like a local secret. We finally met some local aunties, the first people we’d seen all hike, and they were genuinely impressed to learn we were Singaporeans who knew about this hidden gem.
So, should you hike Bukit Hijau?
Absolutely. Bukit Hijau may not have the fame or polish of more popular trails, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s not packed with tourists. It doesn’t have a gift shop at the top. It probably won’t make your Top 10 Penang attractions list. But Bukit Hijau has heart, character, and a kind of quiet magic that makes it unforgettable.
