Lorong Che Em
Che Em Lane is one of the narrowest lanes in George Town. It is located off Lebuh Pantai, and connect it with Lebuh Penang. It is one of those quaint alleyways that make the inner city of George Town - a Unesco World Heritage Site - such a charming destination to explore.
Che Em Lane was named after Che Em Chinaman, one of the early Chinese settlers when Francis Light established George Town. Che Em became one of the biggest Chinese real estate owner on the island.
Che Em Lane holds the distinction of being the first road in Penang to be named after a non-European. It is close to Market Street, where Penang's first wet market used to be. It was not surprising therefore that the market spreads into Che Em Lane. During the late 19th century, it was where poultry vendors of the wet market were stationed. Today, of course, the wet market of George Town has moved elsewhere, chiefly to the Campbell Street Market and Chowrasta Market. Over time, as more Indians settled within the vicinity, Che Em Lane becomes one of the sideroads leading into Little India.
Getting there
From the Weld Quay Bus Terminal, cross Pengkalan Weld using the pedestrian bridge, and then turn right, walk along Pengkalan Weld till the junction of Gat Lebuh China. Turn left, walk along Gat Lebuh China until junction of Lebuh Pantai. Cross Lebuh Pantai, turn left, walk along it until you reach Che Em Lane on your right.
Nearby Sights
Ban Hin Lee Bang Building
George Town Dispensary
Old OCBC Building
Kongsoon House
TTS Building
Ghee Hiang
Budget Accommodation in Penang
If you're coming to Penang on a budget, you'd be pleased to know that there's quite a number of places in George Town as well as in Batu Ferringhi that offers good clean accommodation without costing you an arm and a let. If I am allowed to be biased, I would recommend Hotel Mingood, which happens to belong to a friend of mine. If it is occupied, there are plenty of other places that cost less than US$12.00 per night. Here are some suggestions:
Hutton Lodge, from US$8.25
Baba Guesthouse, from US$7.57
E.T. Budget Guesthouse, from US$6.05
YMCA Penang, from US$6.53
Sri Sayang Resort, from US$7.43
Ali's Ferringhi Guest House, from US$9.63
Despite the best intentions to provide you information that is as accurate as possible, do be aware that prices may have changed and exchange rates fluctuated since I wrote this. So please personally and carefully screen through the available accommodation before making your booking, to avoid any disappointments.
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In Other Words ...
In Malay: Lorong Ayam (Chicken Alley)
In Hokkien: Beh Kay Hang'a (Chicken Vending Alley)
In Tamil: Koli Kadai Sandhu (Poultry Market)
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Che Em Lane (8 August 2006)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
Che Em Lane Location Map
Che Em Lane (16 July 2008)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
Che Em Lane sign (12 November 2008)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
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