The following places of outdoor adventure are within Terengganu 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
Terengganu is also known as (a.k.a.) "ABODE OF FAITH"
Geographical info:
The state lies between Kelantan to the north and northwest and Pahang to the south and southwest, and has a long coastline of over 240 km facing the South China Sea. The discovery and exploitation of off-shore mineral oil deposits over the past decade is effecting an economic and social revolution in the state.
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1. Kenyir Lake
Located approximately 55 km from Kuala Terengganu, the Kenyir Lake is reputed to be one of the largest and most facinating man-made lake in the world with over 340 islands and covering an area of 369 sq km, it is also Malaysia's largest rock-filled hydroelectric dam. Surrounded by a lush tropical jungle, the Kenyir Lake is a popular and ideal retreat for nature lovers, anglers, photo, enthusiasts and fun seekers. Some of the activities which could be carried out here are fishing, swimming, canoeing, boating and jungle trekking. A wide variety of fresh water fish such as Baung, Toman, Kelisa and Lampam triving aboundantly in the lake.
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2. Bewah and Taat Caves
Located in the National Park, Bewah and Taat Caves are two towering limestone hills that abound with mysteries and legends. The mountains, occassionally shrouded in mists, provide some of the spectacular sights of Lake Kenyir that will surely captivate your imagination.
Before the inundation, Mount Bewah has three entrances and the lowest, the Tok Bidan Cave,now submerged, is the site where archaeologists and historians discovered artifacts such as kitchen utensils, axes and tools that dated back to the Neolithic era (4000 B.C.). You can now visit the Mount Bewah Caves through the two visible entrances while Mount Taat nearby has only one main entrance.lnside these caves you can see various shapes of stalactites and stalagmites and it is advisable to bring along a torch light when you explore these caves especially in Bewah where it is darker. Thought to be important ancient routes used by the previous people inhabiting the surrounding areas, Mount Bewah and Taat still hold many secrets of the past.
Further excavations are now being planned by the authorities to unravel its mysteries. Ketengah, with the cooperation from the State Museum and othergovernment agencies, has planned to provide proper access stairs to the two caves, apart trom basic amenities.
Among the other proposed development projects are a mini museum, a jetty, adesignated fishing area, lighting in the caves and picnic and resting sites. For the more adventurous, hiking trails within the vicinity will be provided. The caves are expected to become a top tourist atVaction once the basic facilities proposed are completed. Safe exploration of the caves by visitors would be the main priority in the proposed development strategies. Bewah and Taat Caves beckon anyone to uncover its mystenes, and definitely is worth a visit ! It takes approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours by boat to reach these caves from Pengkalan Gawi.
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3. Lasir Waterfall
Lasir Waterfall is one of the many spectacular waterfalls within Lake Kenyir. A majestic fall about 500 feet high, Lasir drops gracefully into multi-tiered levels of boulders forming cascading showers of white foaming sprays of water.
Ponds of water are available at each of the 5 levels of Lasir and one can enjoy a cold refreshing bath here. The fall, as at all falls in Kenyir, is well shaded by the canopy of the surrounding forest. You cannot actually tell which is colder, to stay in the water or out of it ! As with other falls within Kenyir, the area is proposed to be an activity-oriented or nondevelopment area whereby no large structure or heavy physical developmentwill be allowed. This is to ensure that the natural environment will not be hurt and spoilt.
Man-made structures will be built to coexist and blend with the natural surrounding. Lasir is located about 16 km to the south of Pengkalan Gawi and it takes about 30 to 45 minutes by boat to reach here. From Gawi, Lasir is the perfect choice for a family to have a splendid day at the waterfall! A flat area at the highest level would be an excellent camping site upon the completion of an access trail or pathway. Plans are on the way to label all the trees within the vicinity with scientific and local names, and this will definitely add interesting information to visitors.
Lasir will soon have more facilities such as a jetty, a rest hut and a suspended bridge. Apan from these, facilities such as toilets, changing rooms and stairways will soon be available. To make it more interesting, camping sites and jungle trekking trails will also be provided. Visitors to Lasir will probably have to consider spending a few days more than initially planned !
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4. Other Waterfalls Around Tasik Kenyir
Snok waterfall is a favourite spot for picnickers and nature lovers, the fall is beautiful sight of cascading water over rock terraces and boulders. A flat sandy ground found at the base of the falls is ideal for picnics.
Tembat waterfall is a beautiful gradual series of flowing water on boulders and ridges. It is composed of 5 rapids with fast flowing streams that form a cascading waterfall. Camping side and hiking trail are available by the waterfall. Other beautiful waterfalls in the vicinity of Tasik Kenyir are Petang, Lebam-Terengganu, Lata Terap and Pertung.
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5. Saok Waterfall
Located on the eastern shore of Besar Island, it is a 15 to 20 - minute boatride from Gawi. A favourite spot for picnickers and nature lovers, the fall is a beautiful sight of cascading wateroverrock terraces and boulders. To feel the cool, rejuvenating water of Saok is simply an experience not to be missed. At the ground level, there is a flat sandy area perfectly sized for a whole family to have a picnic and for children to have a fun-frolic time ! The authorities have several development plans for the area. With the visitors' convenience in mind, structures such as walkways orfootpaths will soon be constructed. A new jetty is also planned to provide easier berthing for boats coming to and fro. Activities will also be carried out to beautify the surrounding landscape, apan from the basic amenities and facilities which will be constructed soon. Saok is a unique waterfall at Lake Kenyir, and a must - visit !
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6. Tembat Waterfall
Located on the Tembat River, the waterfall is a beautiful gradual series of flowing water on boulders and edges. Unlike Lasir and Saok, Tembat is actually composed of five rapids with fast Nowing streams to form a cascading waterfall. It is a very popular spot for visitors and campers as there is a camping site by the fall which can accommodate a fairly large group easily. In addition, there is also a hiking trail which will enable you to reach the top and from that vantage point you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the waterfall. From Gawi to Tembat you only need a 45 to 60-minute boatride.
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7. Bukit Puteri
Bukit Puteri is a 200m high historical hill, situated next to Istana Maziah. It was used as a fortress between the years of 1831 to 1876 to defend the state from enemy attacks and many relics from that era remain. Today, the hill serves as a historical remainder and also as a scenic lookout over magnificent view of Kuala Terengganu.
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8. Cultural Centre
A visit to Pengkalan Budaya or the Cultural Centre, a venue for cultural performances, is a must on the itinerary for all visitors to Kuala Terengganu. Ideally located along Pantai Batu Buruk (Batu Buruk Beach), it offers visitors an opportunity to see for themselves, the performance of Silat which is the Malay art of self defence, traditional dances such as Ulek Mayang and Joget and a wide selection of games and pastime. The performances are held every Friday and Saturday, between 5.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. and 9.00 p.m. to 11.00 p.m. So, do not miss the opportunity to witness the fascinating diversity of Terengganu's culture.
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9. Kampung Cina
Kampung Cina was the home of first Chinese Traders during the mid-18th century in Kuala Terengganu. The famed one-street China Town run parallel to the Terengganu River. The houses of Kampung Cina have architecture designs that are peculiar to Kuala Terengganu. Built of wood and stone with slanted roofs, the two storey houses are built on stilts and extend into the river which flows behind them. A great variety of handcrafts, souvenirs and antiques shops lined the street.
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10. Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah
The Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah, also known as The Floating Mosque was built on the estuary of Sungai Ibai and its intricate design gives viewers the impression that the mosque is actually floating on water. This place of worship is beautifully lit at night and provides a holy landmark for the city.
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11. State Museum
The Terengganu State Museum Complex is the largest museum in SouthEast Asia. The complex consists of a main Museum, a Maritime Museum, a Fisheries Museum, 4 traditional houses and a botanic and herbs gardens. The Main Museum is built on 16 stilts, in accordance with the traditional architecture of Terengganu. Its 4 blocks are adjoined, to represent a big family. There are 10 galleries showcasing textiles, crafts, historical, royal, new generation and contemporary arts.
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12. Terengganu Planetarium
The Terengganu Planetarium Complex is located at Padang Hiliran at the foothill of Bukit Besar, the highest hill in Kuala Terengganu. The permanent exhibitions on astronomy, science and technology is open to the public. At the 30 space theater, a state of art universal projector simulates an image of stars and planets of the sky onto a large doomed roof. both Terengganu Enterprenues Development Foundation and State Science Centre offices are also situted in the complex.
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13. The Abidin Mosque
The Abidin Mosque situated at Kampung Masjid was originally know as the White Mosque or the Big Mosque. The timber structure building was built by Sultan Zainal Abidin II between the year1793 - 1808. During the reign of Sultan Umar, it was replace by a stone structure building. A unique Islamic architecture feature of the mosque is the caligraphy of the verses from the Holy Quran prayers and arabesques which were carved onto the entrance door and the grilles of the mosque.
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14. Waterfront
Visitors to the WaterFront of Kuala Terengganu will be in awe of and fascinated by the hustle and bustle of activities taking place there. Stroll down the waterfront and watch fishmongers haggling for the price of fish and other seafood, or take a boat ride to one of the many beautiful surrounding islands. Another appealing alternative is to take a passenger boat to Seberang Takir, where the most incredible view of the South China Sea can be seen.
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15. Cendering
Cendering located 6 km south of Kuala Terengganu, is the site for a national deep sea fishing project. The long jetty and extensive structure of waterbreakers at the fishing complex make it an excellent site for fishing. Pantai Cendering is hauntingly beautiful beach with tall coconut palms and fine white sand which inspired the composition of an equally beautiful song singing praises of its capvivating chasms.
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16. Sutra Semai Centre
Approximately 6 km south of Kuala Terengganu is Sutera Semai Centre at Chendering. It is Malaysia's pioneer silk weaving centre, where visitors can witness different stages of silk manufacturing. There, witness the painting of batik designs onto the fabrics, resulting in beautiful batik shirts, kaftans, scarves, handkerchiefs, etc.
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17. Ceralak Waterfalls
These are actually two waterfalls, collectively called the Sungai Ceralak Waterfalls. The first know as Jeram Solo in about 12m high with a pool at about 250 sq. m in area while the second, at 24m with a 190 sq. m pool is called Jeram Padang. The area has some attractive trees and plants, including various species of pretty wild flowers. Getting to the site including a boat site from Kuala Jengal to Kuala Sungai Ceratak, a jungle hike and river crossing. alternative route is via logging trails and jungle tracks.
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18. Sekayu Waterfalls
Sekayu Waterfall is located within the Sekayu Recreational Forest, which is 56 km away from Kuala Terengganu. The drive through unspoiled country scenery takes about 45 minutes. A favourite retreat for visitors, the Sekayu Waterfall with its seven cascades are surrounded by its natural landscape of lush jungle-clad hills, a fruit orchard, a mini zoo, a bird park, a garden and countless species of flora and fauna, various facilities such as shelters, changing rooms, chalets, resthouse, camping site, car parks, food stalls and exhibition hall have been provided.
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19. Merang
Merang is a very peaceful village with beautiful wooden houses amongst swaying coconut trees. A spectacular curve of golden sandy beach stretches all the way to the estuary of the Sungai Merang where the shallow river waters finally meet South Chine Sea. A long causeway of golden sand has been formed, reaching out from the casuarina fringed shore and under contant threat of being swept away by the waves.
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20. Penarik
The idyllic Penarik fishing village has the ideal ambience of gently sloping sandy beach and fairly shallow sparkling water. Penarik has the perfect setting for sunbathers and fun seekers who enjoy a quiet, serene vocation spot to while away the hours in uninterupted bliss.
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21. Bukit Belatan Waterfall
Being located in the Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve. Bukit Belatan Waterfall is surrounded by lush scenery and dense tropical forest. It has a delightful scenery of water tumbles over sharp shelves of rock into a natural pool bordered by almost rectangular rock walls. The waterfall is located about 18 km from Jerteh Town is easily accessible.
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22. Pasir Raja
A highly exciting destination for nature lovers and the adventurous, Pasir Raja is blessed with clean, fresh air, countless wildlife, magnificent flora and fauna, numerous winding streams, rapids and a waterfall. It is a perfect setting for jungle trekking, swimming and relaxing.
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23. Lata Temakoh
Lata Temakoh is located upstream of Sungai Tenang within the Pelagat Forest Reserve about 20 km from Jerteh Town. Lata Temakoh cannot be appreciated in its entirely because it consists of seven-ties falls, of which the fourth ties alone reaches 75 metres in a grand display of water power and natural beauty. Several natural pools created by rapids can be found at the lower reaches of the falls.
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24. Cenderong Waterfalls & Kuala Benum Rapids
Cenderong waterfall is located at 100m above sea level. The sight of waterfall in full spate as it thunders down a 200m slope is majestic however journey to the site is an arduous 2 hours trek along jungle trail.
Kuala Benum Rapids are actually a stretch of Sungai Kemaman that travesses a rocky series of steps. These rocky outcrops have also resulted in several natural pools ideal for wading and swimming.
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25. Kijal
Kijal is a small, quiet and quaint fishing village to the north of Chukai Town. the atmosphere is full of peace and tranquility where one can laze around watching the activities of fishing village life unfold or just enjoy the caress of the cool palmy breeze. The fanciful rock formation is found in Tanjung Penunjuk which is a curiosity along the usually sandy beaches of the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
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26. Marang
Marang is one of the most pictureque fishing village in the country. Coconut palms swaying in a balmy breeze, an incredibly serene lagoon with fishing boats rest stranded on the sand at low tide is the exotic image of Marang. At the mouth of the river where in coming wavws and forever shifting sands require experience and constant vigilance by the boatmen to avoid running around.
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27. LA Hot Springs
There is a hot spring in Besut which is known as the LA Hot Springs with its water temperature ranging from 45 - 49 degrees Celcius. The water contains natural sulphur which is said to have healing properties. Visitors flock to this spring especially so, when afflicted with skin ailments.
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28. Lata Tembakah Waterfalls
Another area which offers similar nature activities for a healthy mind and body is the Lata Tembakah Waterfalls. It is located in the Pelagat Forest Reserve in Besut . The sprawling 300 sq hectares is blessed with a beautiful seven-tiered cascading waterfall with its highest point reaching 50 metres. The park is a haven for those who are health conscious and love adventure retreats such as swimming, camping, jungle-trekking and nature walks. The park provides basic amenities such as changing rooms and rest areas.
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29. Setiu Recreational Park
Seven kilometres from Bandar Permaisuri is the popular Setiu Recreation Park which has been conceived with the noble agrotourism concept in mind. This is the state government's efforts to preserve the environment and at the same time offer healthy recreational activities while providing camping facilities and basic amenities for visitors. The park is a natural laboratory for the study of nature with the names of trees and plants labeled accordingly. It promotes the importance of care and concern for the environment and enhances civic consciousness among the state's populace and visitors.
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30. Bidong Island
Pulau Bidong lying 35 km off the main land is another stopover point for the fisherman. It was famous for being a Vietnamese Refugees Camp until 1991. Pulau Bidong is a paradise for game fishing as its water team with variety of game fishes. Pulau Lang Tengah is an idyllic gateway with uncrowded beaches and variety of diving and snorkelling sites. These unspoiled islands are a short boat ride from the main land. They offer day trippers the change to live out their deserted island fantasies, exploring the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters of the South China Sea.
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31. Duyung Island
Boat-building has grown from the traditional art form to commercial enterprise. However, the beauty of it all is that, the boats are built by the skillful hands of Terengganu's craftsmen with every little use of modern equipment or process system. The boat-builders' methods are unique, in that they work entirely from memory and experience and without set plans. Pulau Duyung, an island sandwiched in the water enclave of the Terengganu River is a well known boat-building ground. It is easily accessible by a short ferry-ride across the Terengganu waterfront.
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32. Kapas Island
Pulau Kapas is renowned for its pure emerald waters, white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, caves with swallows nest, dazzing marine life and superb coral formation. Home to a famous Murai Batu - a song bird which has the enviable reputation of having 23 different melodies at its command. Pulau Kapas is 6 km off the coast or a 30 minutes boat ride from Marang and is a favourite for day trippers.
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33. Perhentian Island
Situated 21 km of the coast of Terengganu, Pulau Perhentian consists of two islands which are Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Pulau Perhentian Besar. These lush and exotic tropical islands boast some of the most pictureque beaches revered by sunbathers. Blessed with an abundant supply of fresh water, these islands have been a stopover point for fishermen as well as migratory birds. The journey to Pulau Perhentian takes about 1 1/2 hours by boat from Kuala Besut.
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34. Redang Island
Pulau Redang is the largest island of Redang archipelago off the coast of Terengganu and the centre of marine park. The park is arguable amongst the best diving sports in the world where marine life is protected and souvenir hunters are liable for prosecution.The crystal clear waters makes it ideal for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving. Other sports such as boating, wind surfing, sailing, jungle trekking and golfing are also available. Pulau Redang is located 50 km from the coast and takes about 2 hours boat ride from the village of Merang. Other islands in the group are Pulau Pinang, Pulau Ekor Tebu, Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Kerengga Kecil, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kecil and Pulau Lima.
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35. Tenggol Island
The small rocky island of Pulau Tenggol is famous for its sunken cliffs and also offers drivers the delights of the underwater world. The abundance and variety of reptile makes it interesting for naturalists. The western side of the island is breathtakingly beautiful, with clear glassy aquamarine waters and a secluded beach of fine white sand against a backdrop of luxuriant forest clinging on steep slopes the island is situated 17 km off the coast which is an hour boat from Kuala Dungun.
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36. Batu Buruk Beach
Pantai Batu Buruk is located within the town of Kuala Terengganu and is a lovely stretch of golden sandy beach amidst rows of casuarina grove. It is the favourite evening outing sport for local. Ideally located along the beautiful beach is the cultural centre where regular cultural performances are held. Other sporting and recreational facilities are also available. They include swimming pools, hockey stadium, lawn-bowling field, football field, children playground, jogging tracks and garden.
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37. Bukit Keluang Beach
Bukit Keluang is approximately 140 km north of Kuala Terengganu a few kilometres from Kuala Besut. It has one of most breath talking and magnificent view in Malaysia. The distinctive features are caves which are easily reached by walkways. Bukit Keluang is also an ideal site for swimming, snorkelling and wind surfing.
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38. Rantau Abang Beach
Rantau Abang, 60 km south of Kuala Terengganu, is one of the six beaches in the world where giant Letherback Turtles come ashore to lay their eggs from the month of May to September. These giant turtles, up to 2.5m in length and sometimes weighing more than 375 kg is indeed a phenomenal sight to behold.
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39. Tanjung Jara Beach
Timeless beauty and serenity you often dream of can all be found in this enchanting beach resort 60 km, south of Kuala Terengganu. The Tanjung Jara Beach Resort's alluring attractions is its specially architectured and landscaped hotel, designed after an old Malay palace. Built entirely of wood, the resort has won the prestigious Aga Khan award for outstanding architecture. And there's plenty to do too. Sea sports, turtle watching and an exciting organised river safari up the Dungun River for the rugged and adventurous at heart.
