Just like Shillong has Khyndailad, meaning ‘a meeting of nine lanes’ housing a variety of hotels, businesses, cafes, and restaurants, well known for its lively atmosphere, colourful shops, and delicious street food, George Town within the Malaysian state of Penang has the Armenian Street, a narrow street within a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named after the country of Armenia, the Street was originally part of a Malay settlement. The subsequent influx of Armenians and Chinese shaped the street’s multicultural character making it a vibrant hub for artists and their murals, turning Armenian Street into an open-air gallery, attracting tourists and art enthusiasts! An iconic symbol of Georgetown’s street art scene is the famous mural of the ‘Children on a Bicycle’, created by a Lithuanian artist. This and other artwork, scattered throughout the street, makes for a perfect backdrop for photographs. I couldn’t resist taking several pictures either.
Named Armenian Street due to the influx of Armenian traders who resided along the road, the Chinese gradually took over most of Armenian Street building clan houses. Nestled within the vibrant heart of George Town, Penang, Armenian Street stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that defines this historic city. With its unique blend of heritage, architecture, and culinary delights, Armenian Street is not just a street but a living museum spelling out tales of the Armenian community’s influence in Malaysia.
Not just a thoroughfare, the street was a vibrant celebration of history, culture, and creativity. From historical landmarks and architectural marvels to thriving art scenes and culinary delights, I felt as if I was experiencing a piece of history and participating in the ongoing narrative of the Armenian community. The buildings along Armenian Street 
showcasing a blend of architectural styles, including colonial and traditional designs, principally the St. Gregory, an Armenian Church known for its unique architecture and historical importance.
I found the street touristy and busy with a cool atmosphere and amazing energy. Only I needed to walk in the heat and to drink plenty of water! I found the street lined with beautifully restored shop-houses, a feast for the senses, the aroma of spices drifting everywhere while colorful facades and intricate architectural designs provided an eye full. Tourists were exploring quaint boutiques and art galleries while family-run eateries served up delicious Peranakan cuisine. The sensuous murals on the walls made for a sense of timelessness and authenticity that seemed to envelope the entire neighborhood. I felt as if I had stepped back in time, even as I immersed myself in Penang’s rich cultural blend.
Walking down the street, I was captivated by the architectural diversity that lines its pathways. Several buildings showcased a blend of colonial and traditional styles, with colourful facades, ornate carvings, and charming shutters. Many of these structures had been well preserved, allowing me to experience the ambiance of a bygone era. Uniquely shaped cycle rickshaws, fully painted red all over, were attracting tourists in droves, most of them taking rides while waving to passers-by. Home to various eateries and cafes offering local delicacies, my visit would have been incomplete without exploring the culinary offerings, the range of flavors varying from savory street snacks to hearty meals. I gorged on the Armenian-style kebabs, showcasing the influence of Armenian cuisine on the local palate followed by a cup of aromatic coffee at a charming cafe, the ambiance enhanced by the sounds of chatter romantically engulfed with the aroma of freshly brewed beverages.
Not very different from vibrant Khyndailad, offering a mix of shops, street vendors, and eateries where tourists enjoy the local cuisine, with numerous stalls serving delicious snacks, a cultural melting pot, reflecting the rich heritage of Shillong, a must-visit destination for anyone visiting this picturesque hill station.
(Priyan R Naik is a regular contributor at The Shillong Times)