Penang Butterfly Farm
The Penang Butterfly Farm, reputedly the world's first tropical live butterfly sanctuary is just 15 minutes away from the Batu Ferringhi tourist belt. Established in 1986, the farm features some 4,000 live butterflies of 150 different species, a nature park with small reptiles in their natural habitats as well as the Museum of Asian Artefacts. Expansion plans are underway to include a night zoo, which will feature nocturnal creatures and tropical insects. The farm is a not-to-be-missed for many and it attracts some 250 to 300 visitors daily.
This odd green space, of around 30 acres was originally used for the cremation of members of the royal family. Today it is used for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony , when the King opens the rice-growing season each May as well as for the ritual bathing of monks during Songkran.The rest of the year, the plain field is used for strolling, picnicking, football playing, the occasional concert and political rally and flying kites.
