Stretching for approximately 3.5 kilometres (2.2 miles), the river cuts through the city centre, passing under the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway before emptying into the Penang Strait.

[2] It is believed that the first riverine villages had been established in the late 18th century, prior to the arrival of Captain Francis Light, the founder of modern Penang.

In the 18th century, prior to the founding of Penang Island by Captain Francis Light, Malay fishermen had already established fishing villages along the Pinang River.

[2] The fishermen, who originated from Kedah and Aceh, chose the river for its constant supply of fresh water, as well as a route to the interior of Penang Island.

[1][3][5][6][8] Due to the ongoing clean-up efforts that included the installation of rubbish traps and desilting works, it was reported that, as of 2016, the water quality of nearly 60% of the Pinang River was at Class II.