Hickory is a century-old Heritage bungalow converted into a 15-room Guesthouse, perched on the eastern slope of Penang Hill at an elevation of 650m (2100ft). It provides panoramic views of Georgetown and the mainland. Sunrises are spectacular. Hickory sits on half an acre of secluded woodland and manicured lawns. The surroundings are lush and green, with the occasional sounds of birds, monkeys, squirrels and rushing water to disturb the peace. The days are cool, and the evenings are cooler and breezy. Temperatures are typically 6°C (11°F) lower than at the foothills. Get away from the pace and pressure of city life. Enjoy the tranquillity and solitude of Penang Hill. Welcome to Hickory. We look forward to seeing you here. You can reach Hickory by the Funicular at Air Itam (the stropping service is every hour on the hour); or by Jeep at the Botanical Gdns directly to our doorstep. For details please refer to the DIRECTIONS file (and other informative files) sent by the Host on booking, or earlier on request.

We are the 5th generation descendants of arrivals to Penang from Ceylon in the late 1880's, a part of a larger influx who arrived at the behest of the British colonial administration to assist in the development and administration of the land. Some worked for the Government's Administration. Others opened up the hinterland for growing Rubber. Our origins were in plantations and in education. I am Raj, the current owner of Hickory, and a member of the 4th generation; and has been in my possession since 2014. Hickory has been renovated into a 15-room bed and breakfast lodge, whilst preserving the historical significance of the building and of the lineage that has led to this moment. Hickory replicates the atmosphere of a bygone era where the pace was slower and life more tranquil. It is also a focus for the diaspora to call Home. We hope to provide you with a back-to-nature experience with long walks in the woods; and an atmosphere that encourages reading and writing, in a carefree, cooler and meditative setting. We invite you to Hickory to savour the solitude of nightfall and the splendour of daybreak atop Penang Hill.

Hickory organises Guided Walks in advance which can be half-day or full-day. There are also numerous attractions at the Top of Penang Hill, as described in the ACTIVITIES file sent by the Host upon booking or earlier, on request