As my stay in Penang comes to a close, I could no longer put off my visit to this hideaway.
I was determined but it was a good thing I did not read about the specifics of the hike. I arrived at the trailhead right next to the Sri Subramaniar Munisvaran Temple in Sungai Ara, around 6:15am.
It was already 78˚F/25˚C.
The map below should give you an idea of where you might want to park and how to get to the trailhead.
I walked perhaps 3 miles to the trailhead from my brother’s place.
Pitch dark
I had forgotten to bring a flash light for this 3.9 mile (6.3km) 646 ft (197m)gain hike but there was no turning back now. What to do but soldier on?
At that hour there were surprisingly a few people already on the path and many were carrying flash lights. Thankfully, my old eyes adjusted to the darkness or else it was getting light out.
The path though not lit, was paved. Here and there, some parts were just dirt.
Along the way, we were greeted by many dogs of various colors and sizes. None were aggressive, but they did alert whoever they belonged to, that strangers were about by their loud barks.
Long Path but not steep
As we got closer, I could hear the sound of running water next to the path. Still, I couldn’t see anything on the way up as the sun had not risen. It took me an hour to make the trek without stopping or taking a break.
Just be aware that as you walk this path, every so often, a motorcyclists or a car may come up in front or behind you. So expect to move aside and give way.
It is not a difficult hike providing you take your time. The path is mostly in the shade and the incline isn’t steep.
It is just long and continuous. I suppose if you had company, the time would pass faster. Be sure to bring a towel because it gets “so hot even your underwear will be soaked” just like how a chef described working in a kitchen to me recently.
The restaurant at the villa opens daily between 7:30a and 4:30p. The interior decor is actually quite interesting with a mesh of various old things but most of it is Chinese in origin.
As soon as I arrived, I ordered my breakfast of soft cooked eggs with Kaya Toast and a cup of Milo which I wolfed down quickly.
I apologize but I can’t bring myself to photograph my meal like most folks. It’s as if their phone needs to ‘eat’ or ‘see’ what they are about to consume.
Is this how folks say ‘grace’ these days?
GOOD LIGHT
Good light waits for no photographer. The manager Ember came over and introduced herself when she saw that I was taking pictures.
We exchanged Instagram handles. Then she was so kind to offer to buy me a meal. I politely declined but was be more than happy to let her have my pictures without a charge since I was a visitor, not working for a client and I am now retired.
Have you been to the Emperor’s Villa? Did you enjoy the hike? Please let me know in the comments.