History

Discover Fort Cornwallis : 17 Best Attractions in Penang

lacamisa.my | November 5, 2023

Fort Cornwallis, Penang is one of the must visit destinations in Malaysia. Located within the captivating embrace of Penang, the historic Fort Cornwallis beckons travelers to embark on a journey through time. As the star-shaped sentinel of the past, this iconic landmark stands as a testament to Penang’s rich history, offering a variety of attractions that resonate with stories of conquest, trade, and resilience.

The opening hours and price ticket of Fort Cornwallis, Penang are as follows.

Opening hour : Daily, 9.00 am to 10.00 pm.

Entrances Fees :

CategoriesTicket Price
AdultRM10
ChildrenRM 5
The ticket price to visit the Fort Cornwallis

Swettenham Pier Entrance

Stepping through the Swettenham Pier Entrance, travelers are transported to an era when Penang was a strategic trading post. This entrance, conveniently located near the clock tower and pier, sets the tone for an immersive historical experience. As you pass through this portal, you’ll sense the echoes of Captain Francis Light’s footsteps, resonating through the centuries.

Swettenham-Pier-Entrance-Main-Entrance-to-Fort-Cornwallis-Penang
Swettenham Pier Entrance (Main Entrance) to Fort Cornwallis Penang

Captain Francis Light Statue

A prominent figure in Penang’s history, Captain Francis Light statue is one of the top attractions in Penang that stands tall within the fort’s premises. This tribute pays homage to the man whose vision and determination laid the foundation for Penang’s transformation. As you stand before the statue, you’ll be reminded of the pivotal role Light played in shaping the destiny of the island.

Francis-Light-Statue-in-Fort-Cornwallis-Penang
Francis Light Statue in Fort Cornwallis, Penang

Visiting this statue is a must for tourist whom seek for a historical adventure in Fort Cornwallis, Penang.

Gunpowder Room

Built in 1814, the Gunpowder Room stands as a testament to the fort’s military significance. This storeroom once held 650 barrels of gunpowder, underlining the strategic importance of Fort Cornwallis during its heyday. The room’s history intertwines with tales of explosive cargoes and military hardware, giving visitors a tangible connection to the fort’s past.

Gunpowder-Room-in-Fort-Cornwallis-Penang
Gunpowder Room in Fort Cornwallis, Penang

Storerooms

Stepping into the storerooms of Fort Cornwallis is akin to entering a time capsule. Built around 1800, these chambers offer a glimpse into the multifaceted history of the fort. Here, artifacts, exhibits, and displays come together to narrate stories of trade, governance, and the people who once walked these hallowed halls.

The storerooms in Fort Cornwallis, Penang
The storerooms in Fort Cornwallis, Penang
Inside one of the storerooms in Fort Cornwallis, Penang
Inside one of the storerooms

Penang Harbour Lighthouse and Flagstaff

A beacon of hope and direction, the Penang Harbour Lighthouse and Flagstaff have guided countless ships through the bustling waters. With the flagstaff erected in 1884, this communication hub connected Penang Hill and incoming vessels, becoming an integral part of Penang’s maritime infrastructure.

Penang Harbour Lighthouse and Flagstaff can be seen ahead from the cannons
Penang Harbour Lighthouse and Flagstaff can be seen ahead from the cannons

Street of Cannons

As you traverse the fort’s northern ramparts, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Street of Cannons. These formidable cannons, facing the sea, stand as silent sentinels that once guarded Penang’s shores. Each cannon holds within its metal a piece of history, an artifact that has witnessed the ebb and flow of centuries.

The Tunnel

Venture beneath the fort’s surface to uncover the secrets hidden within the tunnel. This subterranean passage offers a glimpse into the intricate architecture that fortified Fort Cornwallis. As you walk through its cool confines, you’ll feel a connection to the labor that went into constructing this historical marvel.

Seri Rambai Cannon

One of the most renowned attractions within Fort Cornwallis, the Seri Rambai Cannon, stands as a symbol of mystique and power. With a history that spans continents and cultures, this cannon has transcended time and garnered worldwide attention. Legends of its magical properties have woven themselves into local folklore, adding an air of enchantment to this iconic artifact.

The legendary Seri Rambai Cannon in Fort Cornwallis, Penang
The legendary Seri Rambai Cannon in Fort Cornwallis, Penang

Amphitheatre

Built in the 1970s, the amphitheatre within Fort Cornwallis offers a space where history and culture collide. Amidst the historical surroundings, this modern addition becomes a platform for live performances that showcase Penang’s artistic heritage. Visitors can take a seat and enjoy the blend of tradition and innovation that fills the air.

3 Soldiers Photo Booth

For those seeking to immortalize their visit, the 3 Soldiers Photo Booth stands as a charming opportunity. Pose with family or friends against the backdrop of the fort, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s not just a photograph; it’s a tangible link to the stories that unfolded within these walls.

The 3 soldiers photo booth in Fort Cornwallis, Penang
The 3 soldiers photo booth in Fort Cornwallis, Penang

Kota Dine and Coffee

Amidst the historical marvels of Fort Cornwallis, Kota Dine and Coffee presents a culinary journey that marries contemporary flavors with Malaysia’s heritage cuisine. As a Michelin Selected 2023 Halal Restaurant, it invites you to savor the taste of Penang while surrounded by the fort’s timeless ambiance. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary voyage through history.

Breakfast in the Fort

Imagine starting your day with a touch of history and nature, surrounded by the ancient walls of Malaysia’s largest standing fort. The outdoor breakfast experience within Fort Cornwallis offers an unparalleled setting to savor your morning meal, basking in the embrace of the past while welcoming the promise of a new day.

Ngopi

In the heart of Fort Cornwallis, Ngopi beckons with its promise of handcrafted flavors and a vibrant ambience. With its in-house sauces and specialty sandwiches, this eatery offers a taste of contemporary Penang, infused with the island’s rich culinary traditions. It’s not just a meal; it’s an exploration of flavors that resonate with Penang’s diverse identity.

Ngopi1 in Fort Cornwallis, Penang, offers food such as 
delicious croissants, ciabatta, panini and few others 
French pastries.
Ngopi1 in Fort Cornwallis, Penang, offers food such as
delicious croissants, ciabatta, panini and few others
French pastries.
This Ngopi stall in Fort Cornwallis, Penang also sells drinks such as coffee and non-coffee drinks
This Ngopi stall also sells drinks such as coffee and non-coffee drinks.

Hussain Pasembur King

Hussain Pasembur in Fort Cornwallis, Penang
Hussain Pasembur in Fort Cornwallis, Penang

As you traverse the attractions of Fort Cornwallis, the tantalizing aroma of Penang’s renowned Hussain Pasembur King lures you in. This flavorful creation, combining a medley of ingredients, is a reflection of Penang’s culinary fusion. It’s not just a dish; it’s a taste of Penang’s multicultural tapestry. With the entrance fee voucher of RM10, visitors can claim any foods or drinks available in Hussain Pasembur King worth RM10! So, ensure to keep your entrance fee voucher safely and use it accordingly!

Chateau Beer Garden

Amidst the historical splendor of Fort Cornwallis, the Chateau Beer Garden offers a refreshing space to relax and unwind. Raise a glass to the past, celebrating the stories that have shaped Penang, as you savor a moment of respite within the fort’s storied embrace.

Fort Cornwallis Beauty at Night

As the sun sets, Fort Cornwallis dons a different mantle. The night sky becomes a canvas, painting the fort in soft hues as it basks in the glow of history and modernity. An evening visit unveils the fort’s allure in a different light, creating an enchanting atmosphere that resonates with the whispers of the past.

Fort Cornwallis, Penang at night
Fort Cornwallis, Penang at night

Capturing Memories in Fort Cornwallis, Penang

Every corner of Fort Cornwallis is a photograph waiting to be captured as it displays many historical attractions. It provides countless opportunities for shutterbugs to document their journey. As you walk through history, let your lens immortalize the stories that unfold before you.

Fort Cornwallis isn’t just a collection of attractions; it’s a journey through time that unites the past, present, and future. As you walk through its corridors, stand before its cannons, and savor its flavors, you’ll be part of a legacy that transcends generations. Hopefully this article has managed to guide the readers through the best things to do in Penang thus assisting them in planning a complete Penang travel itinerary to get the best out of Penang.


About the Author

Misa @Lacamisa.my

As a local living in Malaysia, my passion lies in traversing this wonderful country, uncovering one destination after another. Traveling is more than a hobby for me; it's a journey into new cultures, traditions, and undiscovered corners. Another key part of my travels includes enjoying the culinary delights, ranging from simple street food to delicious dishes in upscale restaurants. My ultimate goal is to share these experiences with you by providing a comprehensive guide, complete resources and exclusive discounts for traveling in Malaysia. Stay tuned for more insights and stories as I continue to explore and share the wonders of Malaysia.

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