Chowrasta Market Penang

Step into the heart of Penang’s heritage at Chowrasta Market, a bustling local market that’s been serving the community since 1890. From lightning-fast hawker stalls to second-hand bookshops stacked to the ceiling, this market is a living museum of multicultural Malaysia. Whether you’re hunting for tau sar piah, preserved nutmegs, or a taste of authentic char siu, Chowrasta delivers a sensory experience that blends history, flavor, and local life.

Ready to explore Penang’s greenest and most historic market? Let’s dive into Chowrasta Market.

Why Visit

A Market Rooted in History

• Built in 1890 by South Indian immigrants
• Name “Chowrasta” means “four cross roads” in Urdu
• Located in George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Recently renovated to become Penang’s greenest market

Key Highlights

Lightning-Fast Hawker Stalls

Watch plates prepared at lightning speed with fillings like shrimp and char siu, paired with light soy sauce and house-made chili paste.

Local Produce and Souvenirs

• Fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood
• Tau sar piah (bean-paste biscuits)
• Preserved nutmegs and dried goods
• Affordable household items and clothing

Second-Hand Bookshop

• Located upstairs
• Towering stacks of used books
• A hidden gem for book lovers and collectors

Best Stays

Sunway Hotel Georgetown

• 4-star hotel with 250 rooms
• Located in the UNESCO George Town enclave
• Close to Penang Bridge, PIA, Ferry Terminal
• Ideal for leisure and business travelers

Courtyard Penang

• Located on Macalister Road
• 199 rooms with 360-degree views of George Town
• Penang Kitchen restaurant, infinity pool, fitness center
• Meeting rooms and ballroom for events
• Distance from airport: 25 KM
• Phone: 04 252 0252
• Airport transfer: RM100 one-way, RM200 round trip (reservation required)

Georgetown Heritage Hotels

• Boutique stays in restored colonial buildings
• Seven Terraces: Anglo-Chinese townhouses with Peranakan decor
• Jawi Peranakan Mansion: Cultural sanctuary with antique furnishings
• Perfect for travelers seeking heritage and charm

Quick Info

User Reviews and Testimonials

Chowrasta Market is a treasure trove of local flavors and culture. I bought tau sar piah and preserved nutmegs for half the price compared to tourist shops. — Noor, Kuala Lumpur

The second-hand bookshop upstairs is magical. Books stacked to the ceiling, and I found a vintage cookbook from the 70s. — Singh, Singapore

Loved the hawker stall with shrimp dumplings and char siu. Chowrasta Market is fast-paced, flavorful, and full of character. — Michelle, New Zealand

Came early and watched locals shop for fresh produce. Chowrasta Market is the real Penang — no frills, just heart. — Sridev, India

Contact and Booking Information

Final Thoughts

Chowrasta Market is more than just a place to shop — it’s a living, breathing piece of Penang’s cultural heritage. From its South Indian immigrant roots to its modern-day role as a green market hub, Chowrasta offers a unique blend of history, flavor, and community. Whether you’re sampling shrimp dumplings at a hawker stall, browsing vintage books upstairs, or picking up local souvenirs, every corner of this market tells a story.

So, bring your appetite, your curiosity, and your camera — Chowrasta Market is waiting to be explored.