Jetty to be must visited in Penang: Chew Jetty
When you are on an island surrounded by water on all sides, you expect jetties or socks where boats and ships would get anchored to. The island of Penang has many, (of course) but the one that is visited by the tourists is the Chew Jetty.
The way to the jetty is from Weld Quay in Georgetown. It starts from a Chinese temple and then a narrow wooden creaky lane leads to the jetty. The Chew Jetty is one of the largest waterfront settlements of Penang, also known as Clan Jetties, because of the various communities settled there.
The name was decided on the various surnames of the Chinese population like Lim, Lee, etc and finally was zeroed down to Chew. This place is well known for all the wooden row houses that are on stilts. Also, it's one of the most important centres of Chinese New Year celebration in GeorgeTown.
Walking through the jetty gives an insight into the lifestyle of the people living in those stilt houses, in the Penang Strait. Like I have said earlier, the houses are beautifully decorated frim the outside, and their religious inclination is well perceivable given the amount of incense sticks burning. You literally walk outside their doors and windows, and can easily see what the residents are upto, if their curtains are not drawn. There are a few temples too, in the rows and quite a lot of souvenir shops and eateries.
I stopped by at few, and wanted coffee, but was unable to communicate. They understood the word "coffee" but we couldn't decide whether it would be with milk or not. Finally we had to walk out as they were too busy in attending the local people's orders.
Like every other part of GeorgeTown, this place too has interesting murals. And the breeze once you reach the jetty is unmatched. One can spot the long Penang bridge from there and a great view of the Penang Strait.
There are no entry fees to have this experience yet it is one of the most culturally enriching things to remember! Have you ever had a peek into another culture like this?
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
24 comments
Chew Jetty comes alive so vibrantly in your pictures and narrative. It seems a great place to spend some quality time. I was draw to the beautiful street art which seems to be a mirror to the lifestyle of the place.
ReplyDeleteLoved the part about the Chew Jetty’s old wooden houses on stilts. It’s amazing how they’ve preserved the heritage so beautifully. I could almost feel the calm breeze and hear the water beneath the planks.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely blog post, Mandira! The island of Penang is dotted with numerous traditional jetties, each with its own unique charm and history, but you're so right about the one that draws the most attention from tourists—the Chew Jetty—an iconic waterfront settlement known for its vibrant wooden houses built on stilts, lively atmosphere, and deep-rooted cultural heritage.
ReplyDeleteYou have shared amazing photos .. i wish you could have enjoyed that much needed coffee too...
ReplyDeleteI think places like this are the real charm of travel ...quietly fascinating, full of local flavour, and always camera-ready. Penang just jumped up on my wishlist
ReplyDeleteThis was a true treat to go through. I loved the lamps and could imagine the fragrance of coffee, incense and offerings. I would certainly like to see this someday. Majuli in Assam has similar vibes.
ReplyDeleteThis post beautifully showcases Chew Jetty’s charm. I love intentional moments, I’m drawn to its peaceful wooden walkways and living history. Exploring there feels like a mindful escape—steeped in culture and calm. Thank you for the inspiring glimpse!
ReplyDeleteThose wooden jetties aren’t just any scenic Instagram backdrops, they’re living stories of the Clans.
ReplyDeleteChew Jetty..interesting name. And your vibrant pictures make it come alive. These wooden jetties are few nowadays, and I admire the way they are preserved.
ReplyDeleteLove your travelogues and how you introduce us to new and unheard of places through your gorgeous pictures and beautiful writeups. Mayuri/Sirimiri
ReplyDeleteThe murals are absolutely stunning and give the place a dreamy charm. The photos are gorgeous and make you feel like you're right there.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a unique and enriching experience! Loved how you described the walk through the creaky lane and stilt houses. It felt like I was right there.
ReplyDeleteThis is surreal. While reading your blog I felt like I was following the scenes and your experiences along with you
ReplyDeleteI could almost feel the sea breeze on my face while looking at the striking visuals of the Chew Jetty , Penang . It makes me wonder how lovely the place must look at night or during the Chinese New year celebrations.
ReplyDeleteYour incredible posts on Penang are literally calling me there. Your pictures are always so cheerful.
ReplyDeleteAj Banglai Likhbo... Tomar lekha and your picturique presentation... ei dutor mel bandhon tomar pratita post ka anobaddho kore tole. Khub e bhalo lage tomar lekha porte. Bhalo Theko are khub ghure berao.
ReplyDeleteAmazing photos accompanied by bite-sized information. Quite liked the name of the jetty.
ReplyDeleteChew Jetty looks like such a charming slice of Penang life—the creaky wooden walkways, waterfront temples, and breezy views are #travelgoals for sure
ReplyDeleteWhat a delightful take on a hidden gem! I appreciated your insights into the stilt houses' heritage and your recommendations for the best time to visit. The personal anecdotes added a lovely, immersive touch. I wish to travel there someday.
ReplyDeleteThose houses gave me Venice feels although I'm sure they must be different. A beautiful place with heritage value, definitely a must-visit for tourists.
ReplyDeleteI love the way you share such unique experiences. It is places like these that show more about the culture of the place than the ones full of tourists. Lovely photos.
ReplyDeleteI am also exploring the places with your travel blogs!! They are so vivid
ReplyDeleteSuch a vibrant place and pictures. Thank you for sharing this and the information builds the perfect picture!
ReplyDeleteInteresting. I haven't heard of it, though got to see it through your eyes. Beautiful pics, as always!
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