The following places of outdoor adventure are within Kedah state, some compilation of my years of scouting, which is useful info for scouts and nature challenger to explore and have fun. Please be note that the contacts number. are old 7 digits number, call Telekom Malaysia at 103 to acquire updated numbers.
For scout troops who which to organize activities on any outdoor places, you are adviced to prepare your letter of district commissioner approval, police acknowledgement letter or school authority letter, to ensure your scouts will be safe and protected while enjoying the outdoor fun.
Yours in scouting (YIS),
ASM Alex Tan Wei Yen
Kedah is also known as (a.k.a.) "MALAYSIAN RICE-BOWL"
Geographical info:
Kedah is one of the border states of the north of peninsula, with access to its neighbour Thailand via the road to Sadao which crosses the frontier at Bukit Kayu Hitam, near Changlun. This Sungai Sanglang marks the boundary with Perlis to the north, and the Sungai Muda with province Wellesley (Seberang Prai) to the south. The Sungai Krian forms its boundary with Perak.
The Langkawi group of islands forms part of the state. The greater part of the state is taken up by the broad Kedah-Perlis rice plain which produces over half the nation's home-grown rice supplies and whose exploitation has been intensified with the contruction of the Muda irrigation scheme. There are industrial estates at Alor Setar, Kuala Kedah and Sungai Petani. The university of the north (University Utara) is temporarily situated near Jitra, but before long will move to its permanent site at Sintok, near the Thai border. Gunung Jerai (Kedah Peak) forms a prominent landmark on the coast, overlooking the Muda Estuary, and is a tourist attraction.
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1. Batu Hampar
A favourite weekend retread located in the district of Yan, 31 km south of Alor Setar. Picnickers revel in the cool depths of rocky pools amidst the thundering roar of the waterfalls. There are several others such waterfalls around the state :
. Puncak Janing-In the district of Padang Terap, about 25 km north-east of Alor Setar.
. Seri Perigi-A waterfall set within a park. The stream that runs through this park has its begining in Gunung Jerai.
. Peranginan Bukit Hijau-112 km south-east of Alor Setar, in the district of Baling, offers yet another park featuring a waterfall amidst lush greenery.
. Peranginan Sik & Lata Mengkuang-Surrounded by the hills and mountains of Sik, 72 km south-east of Alor Setar offer the adventurous spirit a blissful retreat from the everyday world. This area is ideal for hiking and camping amidst natural surroundings.
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2. Bujang Valley
Lying between Gunung Jerai in the north and Sungai Muda in the south, is regarded as Malaysia's richest archaeological area. Archaeological findings indicate that this is one of the earliest centres of civilised settlement and development of Malay Peninsula-rending it significant to the history of Southeast Asia as a whole. The ruins, like Candi Batu Pahat, believed to have been built in the 17th Century were mainly remains of temples and statues of Indian Gods and Goddesses, similar to those uncovered of historical sites in India. Obviously there has been some form of cultural exchange between the two countries through their trading conducts. The Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum in Pengkalan Bujang houses the numerous artificial caskets, gem stones, beads, etc. 50 Candis or temples were found along Sungai Bujang and to date, 8 of them has been restored to their original form using the same original materials.
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3. Bukit Pinang
Bukit Pinang is an orchard which becomes a haven for fruit lovers during the fruit season, especially those who cannot resist the 'durian'. Another interesting feature of Bukit Pinang is the fact that 'tuntong', a breed of river turtle, is found here. Folklore has it that eggs laid by these turtles were conducive to curing several diseases, hence in those days only the Royalty had access to these eggs.
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4. Gunung Jerai
Formerly known as Kedah Peak. Gunung Jerai is a massive limestone outcrop rising 1200m above sea level. The cool fresh mountain air is matched by the quiet serenity of it's natural surroundings. On clear days, different vantage points on the mountain offers spectaculars views of the rolling rice field of Kedah stretching up to Perlis in the north; the emerald seas surrounding Penang in the south-west and the legendary islands of Langkawi in the North-West.
A forestry museum is also located in the vicinity of this resort, displaying various species of wood available within the Gunung Jerai forest complex. This magnificent mountains has it's own share of history and fascinating legends.
Peranginan Gunung Jerai
Jalan Kaki Bukit, Lebuhraya Gurun, 08300 Gurun,
Kedah Darul Aman.
Tel: 04-422 3345 /422 3346
Fax: 04-729 788
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5. Gunung Keriang
In the vicinity of Alor Setar is a unique limestone outcrop that will surely appeal to those who are adventurous at heart. The mountainous features surrounded by padi fields is most suitable for outdoor excursions. Most notable of these is Gunung Keriang which has its own share of tales to tell.
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6. Menara Alor Setar
Menara Alor Setar, a prominent and modern landmark in the heart of town signifies the rapid state of development in Kedah. Apart from functioning as a telecommunication tower, it has also become a tourist attraction. From the top of the tower one can enjoy a spectacular view of Alor Setar by day or night.
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7. Muzium Diraja
Muzium Diraja or the State Museum is another fine exampleof local architecture hinting strongly of Thai influence in its majestic design. Built in 1936, it houses a veritable collection of Kedah's royal and cutural heritage.
Opening times are : Fridays : 9.00am - 12.00pm
3.00pm - 6.00pm
Other days : 10.00am - 6.00pm
Admission is free.
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8. Peranginan Bukit Hijau
112km south-east of Alor Setar, in the district of Baling, offers yet another park featuring a waterfall amidst lush greenery.
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9. Peranginan Sik and Lata Mengkuang
Peranginan Sik and Lata Mengkuang, surrounded by the hills and mountains of Sik, 72km south-east of Alor Setar offer the adventurous spirit a blissful retreat from the everyday world. This area is ideal for hiking and camping amidst natural surroundings.
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10. Puncak Janing (Janing Peak)
About 25km north-east of Alor Setar, in the district of Padang Terap, is another waterfall at Puncak Janing. This is also a favourite spot for those who wish to retreat to the great outdoors.
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11. Rumah Kelahiran Mahathir
Rumah Kelahiran Mahathir which provides an insight into the younger days of the present Prime Minister of Malaysia, from his school days to his success as a doctor. Photographs, furniture, household items and even his bicycle make an interesting visit.
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12. Seri Perigi
Seri Perigi at Yan, a waterfall set within a Park. The stream that runs has its beginning in Gunung Jerai.
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13. The Royal Boat House
The Royal Boat House is a 'museum' in itself. Situated near the banks of Sg. Anak Bukit facing Stadium Darulaman, the boat house contains several boats that were used by the former rulers of Kedah to visit their subjects. The boats are being kept in very good condition and one can find descriptions as to their origins and usage.
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14. Pedu Lake
Pedu Lake, about 80km from Alor Setar and only about five km from the border with Thailand, offers a back-to-basics vacation with international-class resort accommodation. Secluded within the greenery of the thick tropical rainforest are traditional kampung style chalets complete with modern facilities. Golfing is also offered here at its 18-hole turf. The lake's crystal clear waters are ideal for watersports like jet-skiing, canoeing, windsurfing and fishing. Bird watching is also a favourite activity here. Deeper in the near by jungle, bears, elephants, deers and wild boars can occasionally be spotted.
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15. Pantai Merdeka
Pantai Merdeka is a 1km stretch of white sandy beach approximately 60km south of Alor Setar. This enchanting beach is shaded by tall saying palms, under which one may spend leisurely hours - picnicking or just lazing the hours away. Water skiing and sailing are also popular along this stretch of coastal water.
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16. Pantai Kok, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Datai and Burau Bay
Idyllic beaches such as Pantai Kok, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Datai and Burau Bay, offer carefree sun-filled days and quiet evening strolls. First class accommodation in modern hotels or captiviting chalets is available. A wide range of exciting water-sports provides fun and thrills for the outdoor enthusiasts. Restaurant outlets in the hotels and outdoors serve a variety of appetizing cuisine.
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17. Pantai Pasir Hitam
About 19 km north of Kuah is Pantai Pasir Hitam (Black Sandy Beach). The black pigmentation of the sand is the result of the mineral content - thought to be tin or oxide of tin, which have come from the seabed orfrom the earth's crust. The mystery remains unsolved. Nevertheless, it is an unusual beach to visit as the black sand glittering inthe sun provides an unusual sight.
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18. Pulau Beras Basah (Isle of Wet Rice)
To swim in its clear water is really enjoyable. The beach with its tiny and soft clean sand - you have to experience the joy of having a dip in the sea around Pulau Beras Basah.
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19. Pulau Singa Besar (Wildlife Sanctuary)
The animals roaming in the open on this wildlife samctuary such as peacocks, deer, monkeys, squirrels and quails will endear themselves to the visitor.
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20. Pulau Payar Marine Park
Pulau Payar is a beautiful, protected marine park which houses schools of tropical fish, coral and marine life. However, those intending to explore the area will first have obtain permission from the fisheries department of Kedah or Perlis. As the coral are fragile, divers are not allowedto anchor their boats as they please. Instead, look out for buoys with red markers.
Langkawi Coral, Lot 1-21, Jetty Point Complex,
Langkawi, Kedah Darul Aman.
Tel: 04-966 7318
Fax: 04-966 7308
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21. Langkawi Island
A group of 104 islands, Langkawi offers natural attractions unsurpassed by any other region. Visitors looking for a tropical islands holiday and a place far away from the maddening crowd can find their haven in Langkawi.
Langkawi's spotlights:
a. Crocodile Farm
Taman Buaya Langkawi or Langkawi Crocodile Farm is situated at Datai Bay, about 32 km north of Kuah Town. Registered with the Convention on International Trade and Endangered Species (CITES), the farm covers 20 acres, housing more than 1.000 crocodiles. The farm has many attractions for tourists.
Amongst them are :
i) Feeding Pond
ii) Species Pond - You will be able to see crocodiles and alligator species from all over the world
iii) Breeding Pond - Crocodiles male and nest here
iv) Show Pond - You watch man and crocodile 'wrestle'
v) Bridge-Over-Pond - Enables you to get closer look at crocodiles
You would also be able to watch an audio visual on life-cycle of a crocodile at the exibition centre. The farm is equipped with a fast food shop, souvenir shop, toilets and car park.
Open daily : 9.00am - 6.00pm
Admission : Adult - RM5.00, Child - RM3.00
Show Time : 11.15am and 2.45pm daily
Jalan Datai, Kubang Bedak
Mukim Air Hangat, P O Box 50,
07000 Langkawi,
Kedah Darul Aman.
Tel : 04-955 2559
Fax : 04-955 2519
b. Dataran Lang
Dataran Lang or 'Eagle Square' , is Langkawi's famous landmark. Situated near the Kuah Jetty, it features scenic ponds, bridges, covered terraces, two restaurants, two jetties and barrel vaults made of bricks. Its close proximity to the sea and the soft breezes makes it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and a tranquil setting for dining in the cool evenings. Spectacular cultural shows provide the perfect finishing touch.
c. Galeria Perdana
The Galeria Perdana at Kilim, about 10km from Kuah, houses an impression collection of over 2,500 state gift and awards presented to the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and his wife, Ybhg Datin Seri Dr. Siti Hasmah bt. Mohd Ali. The exhibits include fine crystal ware and gifts fashioned out of wood, leather, silver, copper, pewter, ceramics and glass. There are also musical instruments, Islamic art and craft, textiles and weapons. A part of the display includes various cars and four-wheel drive vehicles. The gallery comprises of 2 double-storey buildings set within a beautifully landscaped garden. Photography is not allowed inside the gallery. Pictures of exhibits are available for sale at the souvenir shop.
Visiting hours
Tuesday-Sunday : 10.00am - 5.00pm
Friday : 10.00am - 12.15pm
3.00pm - 5.00pm
Closed on Mondays (except during school holidays)
Entrance fee : Adult - RM3.00
Child - RM1.00
For further information, please contact tel no : 04-959 1498
Kilim, Mukim Air Hangat,
07000 Langkawi,
Kedah Darul Aman.
Tel : 959 1498
d. Gua Langsir
Gua Langsir or Cave of the Banshee is located near Tasik Dayang Bunting. It is 91m high and is home of thousands of bats, hence it is reputedly haunted.
e. Gunung Matcincang & Gunung Raya
Jungle trekking into the hilly terrain of Gunung Matcincang or Gunung Raya is rewarded along the way by glimpses of exotic birds, wild orchids and other tropical flora and fauna with beautifully coloured butterflies catching your attention amongst the lush greenery.
f. Kampung Buku Malaysia
Kampung Buku Malaysia in Langkawi is the first and only book village in South-east Asia. It is part of the International Book Villages and Book Towns Movement. It is located just 10 minutes from the Langkawi International Airport and 15 minutes from the Ferry Terminal. Situated amidst a lush green forest at the foot of Gunung Raya, the highest peak on the island, the book village provides book lovers a tranquil setting to indulge in their hobby.
The various hoses in the village are stocked with a great variety of new books on numerous topics and languages as well as second-hand, rare and antiquarian books.
Visiting hours : 9.00am - 6.00pm daily
For further information, please contact tel no: 04-955 5568
g. Kuah Town
Kuah, the main town, is located on the south-eastern tip of Pulau Langkawi. It is the take-off point to the neighbouring island by ferry. The name 'Kuah' is a Malay word meaning 'gravy' and is associated with an old legend of two battling giants who overturned a gigantic pot of curry at the spot where the town now stands. Once a rustic town with a few streets, present day Kuah is a thriving centre of modern hotels and shopping-cum-business complexes, but without the over-crowding and bustle of modern cities. Kuah is a duty free shopping haven with a wide variety of goods sold at attractive prices and its restaurants offer excellent culinary delights, especially fresh seafood.
h. Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman (On the park)
This scenic park with its beautiful gardens of vivid local blooms, plants and fruits trees provide a picturesque and fitting backdrop for buildings showcasing Malaysia's rich cultural heritage. Within the park, there are some fine examples of traditional Malaysian handicraft and cultural objects.
Visiting hours : 8.00am - 11.00pm daily
Entrance fee : Adult - RM5.00
Child - RM2.50
For further information, please contact tel no : 04-966 4223
i. Laman Padi Langkawi
Padi cultivation is the oldest agriculture industry in this country. The history, heritage and development of this industry are now displayed at the Laman Padi Langkawi, which also function as the industry's information and knowledge dissemination centre.
Pantai Cenang,
Mukim Kedawang,
07000 Langkawi,
Kedah Darul Aman.
Tel : 04-955 4312
Fax : 04-955 1819
j. Mahsuri Tomb
The Mahsuri Mausoleum is located about 12 km north west of the main town of Kuah. A trip to Langkawi would not be completed without visiting the tomb Mahsuri the island's most famous legendary figure. Mahsuri was a beautiful lady who was unjustly accused of adultery. The story goes that she proved her innocence when white blood streamed from her.body at her execution. As she lay dying cried out in anguish and placed a curse on Langkawi that the island would barren for seven generations.
Seven generations have passes, and today, Langkawi blossoms with development projects. The Mahsuri Mausoleum Complex marks the spot where Mahsuri lies buried. Within the ground of mausoleum are souvenir shops and stalls. There are also displays of the life styles of 'old Langkawi ' such as method of milling of rice, lulling baby to sleep and traditional music.
k. Padang Mahsirat
Padang Masirat (The field of burnt rice) or Mat Sirat as it is called was once the site of Kampung Raja, the ancient capital of Langkawi. It is believed that the village used to be the residence of Datuk Kerma Jaya, the headman who sentenced Mahsuri to death. During Langkawi's heyday, the rice's granary was located in this village.
It was here that hot surplus rice stock and those that were deducted as taxes were kept. When the Siamese invaded Langkawi in 1821, Datuk Kerma Jaya, upon defeat, ordered the burning of the granary to starve the enemy. The burnt rice is said to have buried below ground and that till today, signs of their existence can still be seen after a downpour. The spot where the rice is found is called Beras Terbakar (Burnt Rice) and many have claimed to have come across these burnt rice.
l. Sangkar Ikan Langkawi
Located in a sheltered beach at Penarak, 3km from Kuah town, the Sangkar Ikan Langkawi (Langkawi Fish Farm) is a novel attraction for tourists as they can view first hand how fish are bred in their natural environment. Popular table fish such as seabass, seabrem, garoupa, red snapper as well as shellfish and squid are bred commercially. The farm offers visitors the opportunity to try their hand at fishing for a small fee. Visitors can have their catch cooked by the restaurant located at the farm if they wish or sample its wide range of seafood delights.
m. Tanjung Rhu
About 20 km from Kuah, the beautiful beach of Pantai Rhu has a coastline rich with coral and marine life. Named after the shady casuarina trees which was found in abundance in the area, one can walk across the sandy spread that joins the beach to the neighbouring island at low tide. This is a favourite picnic spot.
n. Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of Pregnant Maiden)
The Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden) is situated on Langkawi's second largest island, Pulau Dayang Bunting. Measuring 800 by 350 m, the fresh water lake is protected from all sides by steep forested cliffs and is separated from the sea by a narrow wall of limestones. It derived its name from a legend that tells of a couple married for 19 years but remained childless. Subsequently the wife became pregnant after having drunk from the lake. Thereafter, this plave has been frequented by many childless couple.
o. Telaga Air Hangat (Hot Springs)
Telaga Air Hangat has its own fascinating legend. The Hot Springs is said to be the result of a bitter quarrel between two families because of a rejected offer of marriage. A battle ensued between them and everything was shattered including all the pots, plates and saucers. A jugful of hot water was flung to the ground and where it spilt, is the Hot Springs.
p. Telaga Tujuh Waterfall (Seven Wells)
The Telaga Tujuh are found on the slopes of Gunung Mat Cincang about 23 km from Kuah on the northeastern part of Langkawi. All seven wells appear as if they have been arranged on top of each other, with each being on a slightly higher ground from the next, and the highest well being 91 meters high. The water accumulated in the wells comes from the mountain stream which flows into one well only to reemerge in the second, third, forth, fifth and sixth until they cascade out of the seventh well in a gushing waterfall into a stream.
Legend has it that the spot is favourite haunt for the mountain fairies who frequent the place to bathe in the cool waters when there are no human around. However, those intending to visit the place will have to hire a guide and be prepared to do some trekking through the hilly forest.
q. Underwater World Langkawi
The Underwater World Langkawi, a marine showcase featuring both fresh and seawater fish and other forms of marine life, is a must-see attraction. Located at Pantai Cenang, a popular beach on the island, this aquarium features more than 5,000 types of marine life, exhibited in more than 100 tanks of different sizes. The highlight is a giant tank housing large marine species such as sharks, stingrays, groupers and green turtles, within a 15-metre tunnel for visitors to walk through and enjoy a spectacular view of the exhibits. Underwater gardens of weeds and sea plants together with exotic fishes and exhibits of fossils and shells add to the range of interesting sights.
Visiting hours : 10.00am - 6.00pm daily
Entrance fee : Adult - RM15.00
Child - RM10.00
For further information, please contact tel no : 04-955 6100
r. Langkawi Cable Car
Take an exhilarating ride on the Langkawi Cable Car up the escarpment on Mount Mat Cincang and over ancient rainforests. Sit back in awe as you ride one of the world’s steepest incline on a cable car at 42°. yet, be enthralled by the spectacular scenery as it unfolds on this unique L-shaped route. The Langkawi cable Car also has the world’s longest free span for a single rope cable car at 950-metres long.
The Langkawi Cable Car's entrance is located in the Oriental Village of Burau Bay near Pantai Kok, just 30 minutes drive from Kuah Town and only 15 minutes from Langkawi International Airport.
PRICE (Booking of entrance ticket only) :
Entrance fee is RM15.00 for adults and RM5.00 for children.
Internationals pay RM25.00 for adults and RM18.00 for children
*NOTE: Ticket charges are subject to change without notice.
Operating Hour :
10:00 to 19:00 hours (Thurs - Mon and public holidays)
11:00 to 19:00 hours (Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
