Moongate 5 Penang

Unclaimed

Took the stairs instead of the trail. Cool in the morning despite the heatwave throughout the country presently. Not difficult but fairly short. Took a slow leisurely 45mins going up. It is a bit steep at a few places. The trail is well maintained with lots of friendly local hikers. Easy to find a Grab car to and from Georgetown.

Enjoyed the hike to Penang gil very much , difficulty is 8/10 , not good for families , elderly or kids , requires good shape. Did it in 1h30 mins without break but I reckon at a normal pace is a 2h30 mins hike . Make sure to bring at least 1ltr of water and towels , is hot and hydration is important ✌️

Moon gate situated near (200m before) the entrance to Penang botanical garden, locals (mostly hikers) tend to make this the assembly point before deciding which hiking route to follow. Plenty of street parking is available but weekends and holidays will attract large visitors (super peak season during the Indian celebrating Thaipusam week) this place is also accessible via public transport No. 10 "Jetty - Penang Botanic Garden" which takes you approx. 20-30mins depending on traffic congestion. worth visit!

Comprehensive guide to Penang hill via Moongate and Moniot trail From Moongate entrance along main road, go onto the steps on left. It is a 30 to 60 mins hike up to No.5 (rainbow steps gym etc…) where you can do a water refill. This section is all steps. From No.5, single track trail to No.84 through the forest. Once you crossed the metal bridge, you will see 2 paths. The more clearly path on the left leads to dead end while the path that requires some climbing will lead you to the road where you will see the funicular. No.5 to main road about 30 to 60 mins all trails. Take the bypaths up to the top, about 30 mins. All in slightly more than 6km and 800m d+. Fairly runnable for trail runners. This trail is not well marked but fairly straightforward.

Hike up to the Penang hill upper station starting from here. About 6km+. The trail is quite clear, pass through a few stopover spots, keep going up the hill, at the end go by the Paths before reaching the upper station.