Trishaws in George Town: What to Know Before You Ride
Penang's trishaws (beca): how many licensed riders there are, how they're licensed, why there's no official fare card, and how to agree a ride in George Town's heritage zone.
The trishaw, or beca, is one of the most recognisable sights in George Town: a bicycle with a passenger seat in front, pedalled slowly through the heritage zone. It's a heritage experience more than a way of getting anywhere, and it's worth doing once.
Agree the route, the time and the price with the rider before you sit down. There is no official fare card, so the price is whatever you both agree.
Visitors with older relatives or children, anyone who wants a slow, narrated look at the heritage zone, and photographers
Penang's trishaws today
According to the Penang state government, 92 registered trishaw riders work in Penang. The state describes them as mobile tourism ambassadors. The trishaw was introduced in George Town in 1941, and riders register through the Penang Island City Council's uLesen licensing system. The state pays each registered rider a monthly allowance of RM 200 to help keep the trade alive. Trishaws were also due to appear in the 2026 National Day Parade, and the state has said trishaw culture could be recognised as state heritage.
The riders themselves are part of the experience. In a July 2026 interview with the state's news outlet, one of the best known, Low Kim Chuan ("Chiko"), said he has ridden for more than 40 years, speaks 16 languages, and is usually found on Armenian Street. Another rider said you need to approach visitors to get business, and that rain can mean no customers at all.
Old trishaws parked at the Cheong Fatt Tze (Blue) Mansion. Photo: Graystravels, CC BY-SA 4.0.
What does a trishaw ride cost?
We couldn't find an official trishaw fare schedule from the council or the state, so we won't print one. Fares are agreed between you and the rider. To avoid a surprise at the end:
- Agree the price before you get in, and whether it's per ride or per person.
- Agree the route or the time. "Armenian Street and the clan jetties, 30 minutes" is clearer than "around town".
- Ask what's included, for example whether the rider will stop for photos along the way.
- Carry small notes. Don't assume a rider takes cards or e-wallets.
Where to find a trishaw
Riders gather where visitors are, especially around Armenian Street and the heritage zone. In practice, they'll usually find you. If you don't see one, walk the heritage streets. Our George Town heritage walk passes most of the spots they work.
Who a trishaw ride suits
A trishaw ride is slow and low. It's a good way for older travellers or young children to see the heritage zone without walking it all in the heat. For travelling with older relatives, see our guide to Penang with elderly parents. If you need to get somewhere quickly, or in the rain, use Grab instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Penang trishaws licensed?
Yes. The state says Penang has 92 registered trishaw riders, who register through the Penang Island City Council's uLesen licensing system.
How much is a trishaw ride in George Town?
There's no official published fare. Agree the price, route and duration with the rider before you get in.
When were trishaws introduced in Penang?
The Penang state government says the trishaw was introduced in George Town in 1941.
Where can I find a trishaw in Penang?
Around George Town's heritage zone. The state's news outlet found one of the best-known riders on Armenian Street.
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