3 Hills

Gazing up at these emerald slopes, can you sense the stories 3 Hills holds? Penang Hill, as it’s commonly known, isn’t just one hill, but a collection of peaks. The highest, Western Hill, reaches 833 meters above sea level. Another notable peak is Flagstaff Hill, called Bukit Bendera in Malay, meaning “Flag Hill.” This name comes from the flagstaff placed outside Bel Retiro, the former residence of the Governor of Penang. Built by Captain Francis Light, the founder of the British colony in 1789, Bel Retiro was a symbol of British power and a luxurious retreat. Imagine the lavish parties held within its walls, the clinking of glasses as the elite toasted their success while overlooking the sprawling landscape. But 3 Hills isn’t just about colonial history. Long before the British arrived, these slopes were covered in dense rainforest, a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Did you know that 3 Hills is home to over 100 bird species, 80% of those found on Penang Island? Keep an eye out, you might spot a Dusky Leaf monkey or a Black Giant squirrel. Even a rare, endangered parasitic plant, Exorhopalia ruficeps, finds refuge in the shady undergrowth. One of 3 Hills’ peaks, Strawberry Hill, also holds a special story. Captain Light cultivated strawberries here, giving the hill its charming name. He even built a house on Strawberry Hill which later became a restaurant. Over the years, 3 Hills has seen various transformations. From a simple horse track carved by Light in 1788 to the construction of the Penang Hill Funicular Railway in 1923, accessibility has greatly shaped the hill’s destiny. Today, the railway carries millions of visitors annually, eager to explore its beauty and history. The journey to the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, the Andaman Sea, and the Strait of Malacca. 3 Hills continues to evolve. The construction of a cable car system linking the peak to the Penang Botanic Gardens promises to further enhance the experience, reducing congestion and offering a new perspective on this natural wonder. As you descend from 3 Hills, carry with you not just the stunning vistas, but also the rich tapestry of stories woven into its very slopes.