Rexy Prakash Chacko - Penang Monthly

Exploring Bukit Batu Itam: Penang National Park’s Highest Peak

6 min read

While most visitors opt for the trails leading to Pantai Kerachut and Teluk Kampi, one path excites hikers seeking a challenge— the Bukit Batu Itam trail. Rising to 460m above sea level, Bukit Batu Itam is the tallest peak within PNP.

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Bukit Papan: A Little Paradise Overlooking Penang’s South

6 min read

The hills in the southern part of Penang Island may have a lower elevation than the peaks in the north, but they are just as fascinating. While the allure of Penang Hill and the peaks in the north lie in their biodiverse rainforests, the experience in the south is pretty different.

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Collectibles in The Hills

9 min read

THERE IS SOMETHING deeply satisfying about crossing off an item that has lingered far too long on your to-do list.…

by Eugene Quah & Rexy Prakash Chacko

Walking Through Penang’s Lesser Hill Range—The Trans Nine Peaks

7 min read

MENTION HILLS ON Penang Island, and Penang Hill and its greater range comes to mind; this starts at the southwest…

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

When The Waters Recede: Walking to Batu Ferringhi Isle

6 min read

Often called Lover’s Isle by locals, Batu Ferringhi—or Foreigner’s Rock—is the very isle that lent its name to the long stretch of coastline beside it, now one of Penang’s tourist attractions.

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Exploring Penang’s Frontier in Bukit Panchor State Park

6 min read

ALONG THE SOUTHEAST border of mainland Penang is the 446ha Bukit Panchor State Park, a natural paradise characterised by towering…

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Mount Elvira: In Search of a Lost Bungalow

6 min read

ANY AVID HIKER in Penang with a keen interest in conquering the many peaks of the state would spend time…

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Penang Slipper Orchid: The Crowning Jewel of Penang's Floral Diversity

5 min read

The lush and verdant hills of Penang are home to a plethora of flora and fauna, which have enthused many naturalists over the generations. Much like some local fauna which have inspired awe and popular appeal, certain species of flora too have aroused fascination and intrigue.

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Bukit Langkap: A Modest Hill With a Splendid View

5 min read

SLIGHTLY NORTH OF Bukit Mertajam is a low cluster of peaks, including Bukit Gua Gempas and Bukit Langkap, with the…

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

Bukit Susu: A Hike through Penang’s History and Agricultural Heritage

6 min read

THE NARROW AND densely populated Paya Terubong valley is characterised by steep hills to its east and west. The eastern flank rises to the peaks of Bukit Kukus...

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

A Perfect Hike on Pulau Rimau

5 min read

JUST OFF THE southern tip of Penang Island sits the lush tree-covered isle of Pulau Rimau. Having ticked off all the other large isles around Penang, Pulau Rima...

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

The Crowning Jewels of Penang's Biodiversity: Wild Orchids of Penang Hill

7 min read

PENANG HILL, with its cooler climes and dense forest coverage, is a renowned tourist destination and a favourite hiking spot. It harbours rich biodiversity, key...

by Rexy Prakash Chacko