Butterfly Farm, Batu Ferringhi, Penang Malaysia

Opened in 1986, the Penang Butterfly Farm – located in Teluk Bahang – is one of Penang’s best known and most popular tourist attractions. The eight-hectare butterfly sanctuary houses an impressively varied collection of butterfly species as well as an assortment of other insects. The farm sits at the foot of the Teluk Bahang hills – between the Taman Rimba Park and Teluk Bahang village. It features more than 4,000 butterflies from more than 120 groups as well as other insects and reptiles.David Goh, the owner, founded the farm to introduce and promote entomology – the study of insects – to the Malaysian public. In order to safeguard the various species of butterflies on the island, this conservation centre is dedicated to protecting them and their habitat. Though most people know the Penang Butterfly Farm to be a tourist attraction, this butterfly ‘safe haven’ has gained an international reputation within the industry. Its other functions include increasing awareness on conservation issues pertaining to the rainforest and butterfly habitats.

The ‘living museum’ houses various exotic butterfly species including the Rajah Brooke and the endangered Yellow Bird wing butterfly and it also plays host to over 300 plant species. Additionally, it is involved in breeding programs thus resulting in its function as an education, entertainment and research centre. Meanwhile, located within the park, is the Tropical Fruit Farm – a 25-acre organic orchard with more than 250 types of fruit including durians and West Indian cherries. Along with a tour around the orchard, you should also take the opportunity to sample the delicious fruits as well as freshly squeezed fruit juices.