Travel Bucket List: Malaysia Part 43: Perlis Part 2

Posted on April 26, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Kuala Perlis
A suburb of Kangar, Kuala Perlis is the second-largest town and the main port of Perlis. It is in extreme northwest Peninsular Malaysia, near the border with Thailand. The older part of town has houses and mosques built on stilts over mangrove swamps. Along with its Kedahan counterpart, Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis is a transit point for tourists to embark on a ferry ride to the resort island of Langkawi. One of the popular activities here is fishing. There are also many restaurants that offer fresh seafood that is relatively cheaper than in the capital city.

Surrounded by the Kayang, Lambing Panah, Wai, Minera and Jahat Hutang limestone hills in the Kayang region, the Kota Kayang Museum, or the Muzium Kota Kayang sits on a 2-hectare of land. Initially, the land was granted from King Syed Alwi to his younger brother Syed Salim bin Syed Muhammad Al-Jafri, at the time a senior minister to the King. At the end of the 19th century, Syed Salim constructed a residence for his family to stay until 1909 when the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 was signed. Afterwards, the building became the residence for British Malaya government officers. Between 1941 and 1943, the building was taken over by the Imperial Japanese Army administration. The Royal Thai Armed Forces took over the building between 1943 and 1945, and after Malaya’s independence in 1957, the building became the official residence of the Perlis Chief Minister. In 1991, the building was demolished to make the Kota Kayang Museum. A new building was reconstructed with an exactly similar design to the former building. During the soil excavation work, artefacts from the Neolithic period were discovered in the site. The museum is divided into three galleries, including the General Gallery, the Archaeological Gallery and the Kedah and Perlis Gallery.

The single-storied three-building structure depicts the Perlis-Malay architecture style with a touch of modernisation. The wickerwork walls, along with the beams and carvings on the doors, resemble traditional existing Malay homes. The tomb of the 15th Sultan of Kedah still lies on the grounds of the museum. Besides the galleries, the outside recreational garden is refreshing, offering a magnificent view for tourists to stop by. The museum is closed on Mondays and is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesdays to Sundays. It has no entry fees.

The Al Hussain Mosque is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in Kuala Perlis. This mosque is also referred to as the Floating Mosque since it is built on water. The 50-metre bridge that connects to the main prayer hall is the main feature of the Al Hussain Mosque. The mosque rises to a height of about 31.3m while its twin peaks breathe at a height of about 7.1m. The minarets radiate various colours at night, which is a true sight to behold. The various colours of the minaret signify a different prayer time. It is interesting to note that the walls of this breathtaking mosque are not painted but are adorned with granite, marble, corals, quartz, and pebbles. The golden-yellow-and-blue dome is made out of aluminium with a layer of Polyvinylidene Difluoride or PVDF used to protect the dome. The mosque is open daily between 4:30 am to 10 pm.

The Bukit Kubu Amenity Forest is a little more than a kilometre from Kuala Perlis. The forest is home to numerous caves and limestone formations that make for great photos. Visitors to the park can run or jog along the two pathways, one of which is an asphalt track and the other is a paved path. There are a few lookout points built throughout the forest that offer great views, and near the entrance to the cave within the forest is the natural lake of Tasik Puteri Kayangan. This forest is also home to the Dusky Leaf Monkey.

The Nipah Kipli Farm has over 2000 Nipah palm trees. Visitors can enjoy laksa and ricefield crab under palm trees in the farm and unwind at the numerous huts and swings dotted throughout it. Coconut meat and juices are also available, as is sweet Nipah juice from the trees on the farm.

Arau
Arau is the royal capital of Perlis, with a population of around 20,000. The red-roofed Istana or Royal Palace is a mixture of colonial and pseudo-Moorish architectural styles. This town is the disembarkation point for visitors travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi by train.

The Perlis State Mosque or Masjid Negeri Perlis is the state and royal mosque of Perlis. The mosque was built in 1972 on the site where the Old Arau Mosque used to stand. The mosque has a modern architectural style with Moorish influence. The floor is made of marble and covered with carpet. It is capable of accommodating 7,000 worshipers with its upper floor dedicated to a female prayer hall.

The Arau Royal Gallery is located right next to the Perlis Royal Palace and contains a history of Perlis’ rulers. At the gallery, there are artefacts like royal uniforms, glassware and bronze utensils belonging to Almarhum Raja Syed Alwi Ibni Almarhum Raja Syed Saffi, a former ruler of Perlis. The gallery offers a glimpse into the lives of the Perlis royals. While the entry is free, the gallery is not open to the public and requires a written request.

Taman Bunga Kertas Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen, or Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen’s Paper Flower Garden, is a great place to visit for all flower enthusiasts, specifically bougainvillaea enthusiasts. Dozens of colourful bougainvillaea, also known as paper flowers because they look like coloured paper, bloom in this four-hectare garden named after the Queen of Perlis. Inside the garden is a hut where visitors can rest and a running trail. There also is a pond of lilies within the premises.

Padang Besar
Padang Besar, often abbreviated as Padang or PB is a border town located in the northern part of Perlis and is also the northmost town in Malaysia. It is situated on the border with Songkhla province, Thailand, 35 km northeast of Kangar, and about 57 km southwest of Hat Yai. The town opposite Padang Besar in Thailand is also known as Padang Besar, although the locals here usually refer to the town as Pekan Siam or Siamese town. The town is a shopping heaven and a popular destination for Malaysians because of the duty-free shopping complex in between the border checkpoints of the two countries. The town attracts several thousand visitors from Peninsular Malaysia and southern Thailand every weekend and during public holidays. The Malaysian checkpoint is located to the northeast of town, about 300 m from the actual border where the Thai checkpoint is located. Both the Malaysian and Thai checkpoints have drive-through lanes.

The Padang Besar railway station has Malaysia’s only co-located or juxtaposed customs, immigration, and quarantine facility for both Malaysia and Thailand, and rail passengers are processed for exiting Malaysia and entering Thailand, or vice versa if traveling in the other direction, in the station. The Padang Besar station in Thailand only serves as a domestic station. Tourism, international trading, and the logistics sector are the most important profit sources for local citizens if compared to agriculture. Padang Besar’s industry area is one of the most important industry areas in Perlis.

The Perlis Ostrich Farm is owned and run by the State Veterinary Association of Perlis. Visitors to the Farm can interact with the ostriches by patting and feeding them. They can even buy ostrich eggs to take back home. Along with ostriches, the Farm also houses peacocks, geese, buffaloes, horses and the like. It is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.

Kaki Bukit
Kaki Bukit is a small town with an estimated population of 3,000. It is located 26 km north of the state capital, Kangar and a few miles away from Padang Besar, the boundary between Thailand and Malaysia. Kaki Bukit is famous for its local food such as Kaya Puff, Kaya Pao, and various types of Baozi, Lo mai gai, a mixture of chicken meat and pork with glutinous rice and many local desserts.

Situated on Malaysia’s longest continuous range of limestone hills, the Nakawan Range, Perlis State Park sprawls across an area of about 5,000 hectares. It consists of the Mata Ayer and Wang Mu Forest Reserves. The park houses 600 species of flora, 70 mammal species, 35 reptile species and 200 bird species. The 500-year-old Setul limestone formation is the main attraction of the Perlis State Park. This limestone formation houses two extensive caves namely the Gua Kelam Cave and the Gua Wang Burma Cave. One can find stalactites, bats, centipedes and scorpions inside the Gua Wang Burma cave. The Perlis State Park is the only semi-deciduous forest in Malaysia. During the visit to the park, one can also indulge in activities like hiking, night trekking, caving, and bird-watching. Hotel accommodations and guided tours are also available inside the park.

Located 33 km north of Perlis in Kangar, Gua Kelam Caves is one of the most unique limestone caves in Malaysia. Also known as the Cave of Darkness, adorned by stalagmites and stalactites, is maintained by the Perlis Forestry Department. The prime highlight of Kelam Caves is the 8-foot wide wooden suspension bridge leading through the illuminated limestone path, carved inside the cavern by an Englishman in the 1930s, for transporting tin from the nearby mine.

The Gua Kelam Gallery has artefacts and collectibles from past tin-ore mining operations, giving you a glimpse of the glorious past. The enticing Gua Kelam mini-train ride from the visitor’s centre into the man-made tunnel inside the cave, exploring the upper levels of the cave is a worthwhile experience. Also, one can rest in the resting hut, indoor hall, or cafeteria, or explore the campsite in Gua Kelam.

The Gua Kelam Mini Train Ride, accommodating 20 people at a time in its 10 coaches, is an elaborative ride through the nooks and corners of the 400 m in 30 minutes. Moving forward from the Visitor’s Centre and Mining Museum Display to the man-made tunnel, one can explore the upper levels of the cave, along with the stationed runway trolleys from the past. The voluminous upper levels exhibit proof of the old mining livelihood like wooden joists, walkways, anchor points, and metal wires. Also, the existing graffiti, writing, and drawings on the cave walls by the miners, especially in the Chinese language, tell stories of the untold. Spiders, snakes, and bats hovering around the cave region, will also accompany one in the journey.

An adventurous steep decline to the Gua Kelam river passage opens a new sight of the primitive cave. Moving through the 7 m long vertical pitch and a vertical ladder to reach the walkway is intriguing for travellers. Subject to the uneven cave floor, old pipes, and wooden joists, care should be taken while one excavates the lower-level river cave. Due to heavy floods in the monsoon, travellers cannot visit the Gua Kelam Lower Level River Cave Adventure in the monsoon time, owing to risks.

During World War I, this dark cave, as the name suggests, was the prime location for tin mining by the Chinese miners. It was in 1935, that an Englishman saw possibilities in transporting the tin ore mines from the stream entrance to Kaki Bukit, the nearest town to Gua Kelam, through an underground cavern. From there on, Gua Kelam earned rapid prominence. Also, the name of the cave was given by the workers due to the extreme inherent darkness the cave possessed. In those days, carbide lamps were used to light up the caves. However, now the well-lit cave still possesses few remnants of the past operations and cave-wall graffiti by the miners of the past. The cave is open from Monday to Friday between 9 am to 5:30 pm while it is open from 9 am to 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Entry fees are RM 1 for adults and RM 0.5 for children aged 4 to 12.

Located within Perlis State Park, Wang Burma Cave is known for the variety of fungi and insects found inside it. There are numerous streams inside the cave as well. The Wang Burma Cave is divided into two, one of which features stalagmites, stalactites, columns and other rock formations and is the easier one to walk through. The other cave has narrow passages, muddy tunnels, and dark hooks and turns, beyond which are some beautiful rock formations worn out by water.

Hikers will love the 2.9-kilometre-long trek up Wang Gurung, on the border between Malaysia and Thailand. The trek starts along a stretch of dirt road lined with fruit orchards and some short, steep parts, eventually passing through a forest. Rock formations follow this, with challenging near-vertical climbs. Following this is a path over rocks and boulders. Finally, a ridge near the summit offers stunning views of the Malaysian landscape on one side and Thailand and the Strait of Malacca on the other.

Located along the northern part of the Malaysia-Thailand border, the Wang Kelian View Point lets you experience the most gorgeous sunrises. The sunrises are accompanied by a carpet cloud phenomenon and cool breezes. 304 metres above sea level, the viewpoint offers panoramic views of the state of Perlis. The viewpoint is also known locally as Menara Pandang Wang Kelian.

Situated in the Wang Kelian village of Perlis, at the Malaysian-Thai border, this weekend market is dotted with about 80 stalls. The Wang Kelian Weekend Market mainly has traders from Thailand who offer a huge variety of items to visitors. The market is quite famous since the products here are quite cheap compared to other Malaysian markets. Some of the items that are available at the Wang Kelian Weekend Market include jewellery, handicrafts, toys, clothing items, fresh fruits and other food items. Malaysian as well as Thai citizens can cross the border up to 1 km on either side of the Wang Kelian Weekend Market.

This brings us to the end of the states on Peninsular Malaysia. Next week, let’s start to explore East Malaysia.

Travel Bucket List: Malaysia Part 42: Perlis Part 1

Posted on April 19, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Also known by its honorific title, Perlis Indera Kayangan, Malaysia’s smallest state by area and population, Perlis lies on the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is also the northernmost state in the country. The state borders the Thai provinces of Satun and Songkhla to the north and the Malaysian state of Kedah to the south. Perlis is the only Malaysian state that is not divided into any districts, due to its small size, but it is still divided into several communes. It was called Palit by the Siamese when it was under their influence.

Much of the state’s highlands are part of the Nakawan Range, a subrange of the Tenasserim Hills system that spans through southern Myanmar, Southern Thailand, and Peninsular Malaysia, with Mount Perlis as the highest point at 733 m. The Nakawan also forms a natural frontier between the state and Thailand.

The capital of Perlis is Kangar, and the royal capital is Arau. Another important town is Padang Besar, at the Malaysia-Thailand border and Kuala Perlis, the ferry town to Langkawi. The main port and ferry terminal is at the small village of Kuala Perlis, which links mostly to Langkawi Island. Perlis has a famous snake sanctuary and research centre at Sungai Batu Pahat. Perlis State Park and Gua Kelam are among the popular tourist attractions.

The origin of the toponym Perlis is vague. However, there are several theories. According to a Malaysian historian, Mohd Yusuf bin Adil, the name comes from the Thai phrase “phrao loi,” which means a coconut washed ashore, since there were many coconuts found on the shores of Kuala Perlis. The phrase has been shortened by locals until it sounded like “pereleh” or Perlis. It has also been suggested that Perlis may be a shortened form of a Malay word “peroleh,” meaning to obtain, as the state was a gift from Kedah since it was a part of Kedah before becoming a state on its own. According to Negeri Perlis Indera Kayangan: Sejarah Pembentukan Sebuah Negeri Berdaulat by Ahmad Ismail, the name comes from a tree of the same name, which may have gone extinct. Some researchers suggest the name is derived from a Northern Malay dialect word “perelus” which roughly translates as “foot falling into a crack”, since Perlis is said to have a wide land filled with mud, and the people’s feet may sink into the mud. Additional suggestions include being named after someone or derived from the French word “perlite,” which means “rock,” due to a huge rock near Sungai Perlis. The honorific Indera Kayangan was given by Tuanku Raja Syed Hussin Jamalullail, who ruled Perlis from 1843 to 1873, after the royal town of Indera Kayangan, where he was raised.

Perlis was originally part of Kedah, although it occasionally came under rule by Siam or Aceh. Sultan Dhiauddin II of Kedah was honorifically titled Raja Muda of Perlis and Kedah, akin to the title Prince of Wales in the United Kingdom. This fact depicts Perlis as a special realm within the Kedah sultanate. Sultan Dhiauddin then made Syed Harun Jamalullail, father of the future first Raja of Perlis, chieftain of Arau as a wedding gift for his marriage with his daughter, Tengku Sofiah.

After the Siamese conquered Kedah in 1821, the British felt their interests in Perak were threatened. This resulted in the 1826 Burney and Low Treaties formalising relations between the two Malay states and Siam, their nominal overlord. In the Burney Treaty, the exiled Sultan of Kedah, Ahmad Tajuddin, was not restored to his throne. Sultan Ahmad and his armed supporters then fought in a series of wars known as Perang Musuh Bisik for his restoration over twelve years between 1830 and 1842. Towards the end of the conflict and the death of Siam’s Ligor governor, the main authority on behalf of Siam over Kedah, in 1839, Perlis was separated from Kedah.

In 1842, the Sultan finally agreed to accept Siamese terms and was restored to his throne of Kedah. However, Siam separated Perlis into a separate principality directly vassal to Bangkok. The Siamese made Raja Long Krok the Governor of Siam in Perlis. Finally, on May 20, 1843, the Siamese made Sayyid Hussain Jamalulail, the paternal grandson of a Hadhrami Arab Sayyid immigrant and maternal grandson of the Sultan of Kedah, the first Raja of Perlis, making Perlis a sovereign state. His descendants still rule Perlis, but as rajas, instead of sultans. In 1897, Kedah, led by its Prime Minister, Wan Mat Saman, began efforts to end the sovereignty of Perlis. After several tense occasions and disputes, the Siamese King Chulalongkorn sided with Perlis. Perlis also had several disputes with the state of Setul before the 1900s.

As with Kedah, the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 forced Siam to relinquish its southern Malay vassal states of Kelantan, Trengganu, and Monthon Syburi, comprising Kedah, Perlis, and Satun, which remained with Thailand and Great Britain. The British installed a resident in the Perlis royal capital of Arau. Perlis was returned to Siam in World War II as a reward for Siam’s alliance with Japan, but this brief annexation ended with the Japanese surrender. After World War II, Perlis returned to British rule until it became part of the Malayan Union, then the Federation of Malaya in 1957, and lastly, Malaysia in 1963.

Perlis is Malaysia’s smallest state and like other west coast states, it has a coastline facing the Strait of Malacca from Kuala Sanglang near the border with Kedah’s Kubang Pasu District up north towards the Malaysia-Thailand border near Pos Batu Putih, in the vicinity of Kuala Perlis. Unlike other Malaysian monarchical states, in which the ruler is a Sultan, the Perlis ruler is called the Raja. The Pesta Air Kuala Perlis or Perlis Water Festival and the Perlis East Wind Festival are the main festivals of the state.

Kangar
The state capital of Perlis as well as its largest town, Kangar is located next to the Thailand border, in the northernmost point of Peninsular Malaysia by the Perlis River. The town is also a gathering centre for the paddy rice production of the surrounding district. The town is the smallest state capital in Malaysia and its inhabitants are mostly farmers and civil servants. Its industries include cement, saw milling, rubber, paper, and processing of sugar and prawns.

Kangar existed from about1653 when Kota Sena was built as the administrative centre for the 14th Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Muhyiddin Mansor Shah. Kangar was then a land port or pengkalan where boats and tongkangs anchor at the confluence of Perlis River, which runs through Kangar town to Kuala Perlis. The name Kangar was derived from a type of tree. It was here at the port that trading was done, under a big tree that gave shade and respite to the traders. This tree that became a witness to many business deals was called Pohon Kangar. Every trader and merchant who came and went to this place began calling it the Pohon Kangar Port, in honour of the tree. Downtown Kangar is a mixture of old and new shophouses and has an elegant colonial State Secretariat Building and clocktower from the 1930s.

Situated in Kangar, the Tasik Melati Recreational Park is a beautiful natural wetland which is famous for its crystal clear lake surrounded by lush green trees and beautiful mountains. Over 150 sandbars or islands can be spotted amidst the lake. The Tasik Melati Recreational Park features Chinese architectural elements and the park is adorned with pavilions, floating footbridges, benches, lotuses and other tropical vegetation. The footway bridge that has been constructed over Melati Lake provides a splendid view of the park. The recreational park is a great spot for picnics as well. Here, one can also indulge in activities like jogging, trekking, fishing and boating. The park also houses a playground for children. If you are interested in bird watching, you must carry a pair of binoculars.

Taman Herba is a herb garden located near the Bukit Ayer Recreational Forest. Sprawling across an area of about 12 hectares, this garden houses about 1000 species of wild herbs or medicinal plants. While some of the wild herbs are grown inside the garden, some are exported from other places. If one wishes to gain an insight into the various plant species, one can opt for a guided tour or interpretation trail of the garden. One can also take herbal treatments, herbal massages or taste herbal drinks at Taman Herba as well as bag home herbal products from the souvenir kiosks of the garden. The herb garden is open daily between 8 am and 5 pm and has entry fees of RM 2 for adults and RM 1 for children.

Situated in Sungai Batu Pahat, the Perlis Snake and Reptile Farm houses about 300 snakes belonging to 30 different species. One can also find crocodiles, lizards, horses, turtles, otters, monitor lizards, iguanas, deer, monkeys, ostriches, poultry and macaques inside the farm. The spitting cobra is the most poisonous snake on the farm, while the heaviest python weighs about 80 kg. Some of these creatures are kept inside enclosed exhibits, while others are in open-air enclosures for visitors to admire. The snake and reptile farm is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and Thursdays, while on Fridays, it is open from 9 am to 12:15 pm and then from 2:45 to 5:30 pm. Entry fees are RM 4 for adults and RM 1 for children, while RM 1 is charged as a camera fee.

Taman Anggur Perlis, also known as the Perlis Vineyard, is located on the outskirts of Kangar. Visitors can sample the nine different kinds of grapes available in this 0.2-hectare vineyard and buy some to take them back as well. The grapes here are of a seedless variety. The vineyard is surrounded by places like the Snake Farm and Herbs Farm, and the location can make for a fun day out.

Located in the heart of Kangar, Masjid Alwi or Alwi Mosque, is named after the Raja of Perlis at that time, Raja Syed Alwi Ibni Almarhum Tuan Syed Saffi Jamalullail. The mosque was built in a unique style, including an onion-shaped dome seated on an octagonal drum. The mosque has a Mughal-style minaret and a balcony, with multiple onion-shaped domes along the entrances at the front and sides. Inside the mosque is a prayer hall with eight pointed arches and another onion-shaped mini dome, with a mihrab to its right. Efforts to collect funds to construct the mosque began in the 1920s. Construction began in 1931 and was completed in 1933. It was then officially opened by Raja Syed Alwi. The mosque was declared a national heritage site in 1988 under the National Heritage Act 2005.

Chuping
Chuping is Malaysia’s largest sugar cane growing area and one of the Malaysia Rally Championship circuit. A suburb of Kangar and a small town, it is located to the northeast of Kangar. The town has 22,000 hectares of plantations, which consist of rubber estates and the largest sugar cane plantation in Malaysia. Chuping’s name may be taken from a limestone hill in the area called Bukit Chuping. There are many limestone hills in the area, and several caves containing bats. The guano used to be collected for use as a fertiliser for crops such as rice, as it contains nitrates and iron phosphate. Chuping is considered one of the driest areas in Malaysia.

The man-made Timah Tasoh Lake is located 17 km from Kangar and 15 km from Chuping. Serving as a water catchment to surrounding areas, this 1300-hectare lake offers great views of the hills and the greenery surrounding it. During winter, over 100 species of migratory birds flock to this lake, and the lake also is a site for fish breeding and aquaculture projects.

Built as an area for research into Malaysian flora and fauna, the canopy walk at the Ayer Reserve in Perlis is open to the public all weekdays. Visitors can walk along the 100-metre route through the canopy of teak trees and enjoy the richness of nature Malaysia offers. It is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm.

Travel Bucket List: Malaysia Part 41 – Kedah Part 5

Posted on April 12, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a mangrove forest park that consists of limestone caves and interconnected three river estuaries that stretch from Kisap village approximately 10 km to Tanjung Rhu. Bats, crocodiles, eagles, kingfishers, monitor lizards, macaques, otters, snakes, and tree crabs are some of the wildlife in the park. A stunning landscape around three interconnected estuaries, Kilim Geoforest Park is best explored by riverboat or mangrove tour. Kilim Karst is home to Gua Kelwar, a popular well-maintained bat cave. The mangrove tour starts off with pick-up from the hotel and heading off to the northern part of the mangroves island in a long-tailed covered boat. While in the boat, one can view a rich variety of wildlife like the monitor lizard, monkeys, and mud-crab as well as an amazing variety of birds. The first stop in the tour is the Floating Fish Farm where feeding the stingrays is altogether a different experience. Next is the Eagle Feeding Spot which is the highlight of the tour. Further is Fossil Island which is a tiny island housing 480 million years old fossils on the rocks. Next is the Gua Langsir cave. The cave is hidden under the mangrove roots, and hence, is also known as the Hidden Cave. Climbing a flight of stairs here and crossing a footbridge takes one to a beautiful lake called the hidden lake. Next, the high-speed boat takes one to the open sea to view the Shoe Island, named so because of its resemblance to the shape of a shoe. The next part of the tour is a visit to the soft white sands of the Tanjung Rhu Beach. Lunch at the Hole in the Wall floating restaurant also forms a part of the tour. After lunch, one is taken to the Crocodile Cave followed by the Bat Cave which is the final stop. Apart from the spectacular sight of bats and unique limestone formations, the Living Fossil, a centuries-old plant, is the highlight of the cave. Although Kilim Geoforest is open throughout the year, the best time to visit it is during the migratory season from September to March. The Geoforest is open fro 9 am to 5 pm every day and has fees between RM 200 to RM 500 which includes a boat and tour guide.

Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise is an alluring wildlife and bird sanctuary situated in Jalan Ayer Hangat. Established in 2002, this beautiful garden and spacious arena is home to various exotic wildlife animals and 2500 bird species. Visitors can catch a glimpse of canaries, owls, eagles, toucans, hornbills, macaws, flamingos, peacocks, mandarin ducks, ostrich, and cranes, among many others. Apart from this, explore some fascinating animals like alligators, turtles, lizards, porcupines, monkeys, meerkat, mouse deer, Iguana, deer, etc. inside the wildlife section of the park. A one-way path is made around the sanctuary with caged boundaries for a comfortable sprawl. Feed the animals with the assistance of the guides or shop a souvenir or gift from a crystal shop having some fine crafted Chinese and Brazilian jewellery, duty-free outlets, and souvenirs outlet located inside. Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise is also extremely famous for a 15 feet human-made waterfall that let the visitors capture some mesmerizing and picturesque sights. Tickets are sold till 6 pm and Malaysians pay RM 30 for adults and RM 22 for children and senior citizens while foreigners pay RM 45 for adults and RM 28 for children and senior citizens. The bird park is open daily from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm.

A sunset cruise is one of the best experiences for tourists visiting Langkawi. Cruises also offer a saltwater jacuzzi, where you can float on a seat protected by a net and enjoy being massaged by the yacht’s trail. In addition, the cruises provide seafood barbecues for dinner, as well as unlimited drinks, included with the ticket price.

The Langkawi Cable Car takes visitors up to the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang, where the Langkawi Sky Bridge is located. An inclined lift called SkyGlide that would take visitors from the top station to the Sky Bridge was completed in late 2015. The start of the cable car ride is located in the Oriental Village where there are several attractions, including a 3-Dimensional art museum known as Art in Paradise.

Located at The Oriental Village in the upper northwest of Langkawi Island, the Langkawi Cable Car takes the riders to the top of Mount Mat Cincang. Also referred to as Langkawi SkyCab, it is popular for the panoramic view of the surrounding islands and the Andaman Sea. Officially opened on November 1, 2002, Langkawi Cable Car is the world’s steepest SkyCab and has the longest free span for a monocable. The cable comprises three stations: the base station, the middle station, and the top station. The total length of the cable is 4400 metres from the base station to the top station, which is covered in approximately 15 minutes and a round trip takes about 28 minutes. The viewing points at the stations offer a fascinating view of the mountains, caves, cliffs, blue waters, beautiful skyline and the tiny islands scattered in the Andaman Sea. At the base station and the top station, there are a plethora of activities and facilities.

Base Station is located at the foothills of the Machincang Mountain in the Oriental Village and offers different facilities for shopping and eating. From here, the visitors are taken to MachincangRangee, Middle Station via the Langkawi Cable Car. The visitors can either alight at the station and walk up to the viewing platforms or continue travelling to the Top Station. The journey from the base station to the middle station covers 1700 metres and provides access to the eastern ridges. The Middle Station is at an elevation of 650 metres above sea level, where you can get a 360-degree view of the main island and the surrounding islands.

On the journey to the Top Station, visitors can spot the flora and fauna that surrounds the area at a close range. The Top Station is at an elevation of 708 metres from the sea and has at its disposal two circular viewing platforms at the top of Machincang Mountain which are both a short walk up the stairs. This sight beholds an awe-inspiring view of Southern Thailand, Langkawi, isolated pinnacles, and cliff walls. There is a 2.5-km walking trail referred to as the Sky Trail through the forest that goes down to the Middle Station and Seven Wells Waterfalls.

A normal gondola can accommodate six people and takes 15 minutes to reach the top station. It’s priced at RM 40 for an adult and RM 30 for a child who is Malaysian. For non Malaysians, adults pay RM 55 for an adult and RM 40 for a child. For express lane privileges, it can cost between RM 90 and RM 105 per person, reducing the waiting time to not more than 10 minutes. The Bottom Glass Gondola has a transparent glass bottom and provides dazzling views of the mountains and forests underneath. It costs RM 105 per person and takes 15 minutes to reach the top station. The price is inclusive of Express Lane privileges. A private gondola can accommodate up to 6 people and uses the Glass Bottom Gondola. The price is RM 550 per gondola, inclusive of express lane privileges. To experience a private ride, one should opt for a VIP Gondola, which can accommodate up to 3 people in a VIP Gondola for RM 550 per gondola, inclusive of the Express Lane privilege and a complimentary meal. The cable car is open from 9:30 am to 7 pm daily.

The Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125-metre curved suspension bridge, located at the end of the Langkawi Cable Car ride. Touted to be one of the world’s longest curve suspension bridges, it overlooks Mount Mat Cinchang and offers mind-stirring panoramic views. Suspended at an altitude of 100 meters from sea level, the view from the Langkawi Sky Bridge includes the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and a rainforest, both of which make the walk worthwhile. The sky bridge is accessible from the Top Station of Langkawi Cable Car.

The Sky Bridge is supported by 8 cables from a single pylon of 82 meters, which is the only supporting structure of the Sky Bridge. The bridge is supported by double steel railings and has an enclosed steel wire mesh below, which makes it safe to travel. The bridge also has two triangular platforms where people can rest their feet while admiring the view. Since the stunning Langkawi Sky Bridge is a curved walkway, it allows visitors to maximize their viewing experience. The maximum capacity of the bridge is 250 visitors at a time and is spread over an area of 500 square meters. The bridge is considered an architectural marvel and rightly so, as it was constructed with precise details and planning. In fact, a helicopter lifted the entire bridge on top of the mountain and was then attached to the pylon.

The Sky Glide is a cabin type of transport that takes passengers to the Sky Bridge located below the Top Station of the Langkawi Cable Car. The sky glide is essentially like an elevator that can drop visitors to the foot of the sky bridge. With a track length of 94 meters, it reaches the sky bridge in two minutes. However, visitors must pay extra for the Sky Glide and tickets must be purchased at the counter in the top station. The price for the Sky Glide is RM 10 for an adult and RM 7 for a child. For a cheaper and more adventurous visit to the Sky Bridge, one can take a 10-minute-walk through a small jungle trail to arrive at the foot of the bridge.

The fare for the sky bridge is not inclusive of the cost of the cable ride. The cable ride has its own set of charges. It is recommended to visit the Sky Bridge after 2:00 PM, as it is crowded in the morning. It is also recommended to visit the bridge when the sky is clear, as cloud formations may prevent visitors from enjoying the view. Entry fees are RM 6 for an adult and RM 4 for a child. Tickets can be purchased at the Sky Bridge Ticketing Counter at Top Station

A helicopter ride is the best way to see all the sights of Langkawi from 10,000 feet above the ground. Tourists can experience panoramic views of the island and the surrounding Andaman Sea, as well as the charming harbours across Langkawi. The tour also takes passengers above Cenang Beach, Tengah Beach, and Dayang Bunting Lake.

The MAHA Tower in Kuah, part of the Langkawi City project, is the latest addition to the attractions on the island. The tower is approximately 1.40 km from Dataran Lang. Formerly known as Langkawi City Tower, the MAHA Tower is a 2-story, 138-meter-tall tower, and Malaysia’s second-tallest tower. It serves as the landmark of the Langkawi City development, which is set to be completed in 2024/2025.

Mahsuri’s Tomb, located 12 km from Kuah, is the tomb of the legendary Princess Mahsuri. Also called Makam Mahsuri, it is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens. The legend of Mahsuri is from about 200 years ago, when a beautiful and charming village maiden named Mahsuri, who lived in Langkawi, was wrongfully executed to death on grounds of adultery. Mahsuri’s Tomb entails a crypt of Princess Mahsuri, along with an outmoded Malay house with a diorama museum, a theatre and a handicraft shop at the monument compound.

It is to be believed that Mahsuri, who was a delightful young woman craved by many suitors, married the chief minister of the village. When her husband went away to defend the village from attackers, she was accused of adultery by a jealous member of the royal family for her alleged affair with a trader from another town whom she allowed to stay at her house. Despite her vehement pleas of innocence, Mahsuri was convicted and stabbed to death by her own family’s keris, the traditional Malay sword. It is to be believed that Mahsuri bled white blood, symbolising her purity and innocence and with her dying breath, laid a curse on the inhabitants of Langkawi to have no peace or prosperity on the island for the next seven generations. Soon after her execution, Langkawi Island was attacked by Siamese.

To protest, the inhabitants of Langkawi burst the rice fields and poisoned the wells of the village to impede the attackers, but all these attempts fell in vain. Langkawi remained a barren piece of land for a long period of time, until the 20th century. It is believed that the curse ended in 2000, when the Kedah government located the descendants of Mahsuri on the island of Phuket and invited them to Langkawi to make it their new home.

The structure of the Mahsuri Tomb is established as a cultural and historical compound consisting of the crypt of Mahsuri. The entrance is marked by a small lobby that leads to a ticket counter, followed by an indoor passage leading to a musical room that consists of a theatre and a diorama museum. The museum keeps various pieces of jewellery from Mahsuri and the weapons used to execute her to death, along with a section of souvenirs and gifts to take home. The theatre is an audio-visual room that narrates the story of Mahsuri in the form of a video presentation, along with written narratives of the folklore of Mahsuri’s legend. The famous tomb of Mahsuri is secluded in a traditional Malay house, laid down in Muslim style on a flat, plain white marble slab, fenced by a lawn. It is surrounded by a tomb garden, with trees and benches scattered around the complex. The tomb is open from 8 am to 6 pm every day and costs for Malaysians are RM 5 for adults and RM 2.5 for children between 3 and 12. Non-Malaysians pay RM 10 for an adult and RM 5 for children.

The Relic of Mahsuri in Wings by Croske Resort Langkawi at Padang Matsirat, which recorded the ancient history and story of Langkawi, is part of the State Government of Kedah’s Safe Langkawi project. The hand-crafted stone wall is 200 meters from Langkawi International Airport.

The main highlight of Dataran Lang, Malay for Eagle Square, is a 12-meter-high sculpture in the shape of a sea-eagle perched on rocks in pre-flight pose. It is located on the waterfront of Kuah, near the jetty. The eagle is the emblem of Langkawi Island, as its name is thought by some to have been derived from the Malay word for eagle. The square is a landscaped area with ponds, terraces, and bridges. A favourite photo spot, the square is beautifully bordered with picturesque ponds, bridges and fountains. This giant eagle statue is positioned in such a way that it overlooks the Kuah Jetty. There are some stalls at Dataran Lang, selling local traditional pottery and handicrafts. The sunset point nearby offers a glorious, warm view of the sun sinking.

The Al-Hana Mosque is one of Langkawi’s oldest, largest, and most popular mosques. Located in Kuah, the whitewashed peach and gold mosque incorporates Moorish architecture and motifs and carvings from Uzbekistan, along with traditional Malay elements. The mosque was opened by the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman, in 1959. This whitewashed peach and gold structure exquisitely features Moorish architecture by amalgamating the Islamic motifs and carvings from Uzbekistan into the Malaysian style of architecture. Visitors are required to maintain silence and remove their shoes outside the mosque. Female congregants are expected to be dressed modestly.

The Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam is one of the biggest Hindu temples in Langkawi. The temple houses several statues and sculptures of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The temple is categorised into several sections where devotees can offer prayers and offerings to the deities. The temple is adorned with vibrant colours and accentuated with a grand and elaborate style of architecture. A long fence has also been built around the premises, and is an ideal place for meditation.

The Ayer Hangat market is a must-visit Friday night market which is set up close to the Tanjung Rhu Beach, on Jalan Tanjung Rhu. A local landmark, the market starts in the afternoon or early evening and is replete with Malaysian and Thai fast food. The market is open from 5 to 10 pm every Friday.

Langkawi Legend Park is a recreational area opened on 27 April 1996 dedicated to Langkawi’s heritage of myths and fables. The park covers an area of 50 hectares of reclaimed land and is more of an open-air garden museum featuring sculptures, scenic gardens, ponds and fountains, and fruit trees growing around pathways and along the ponds. Along with the flowering vegetation, the park has 17 sculptures that depict the many legends found in Langkawi, such as the duel between two giants that led to the formation of Mounts Mat Cincang and Raya, mythical birds, and fairy tales of princesses. In addition, there are 4 artificial lakes and a man-made beach to complement the picturesque scenery. The park is open from morning till late at night and is within walking distance from the jetty.

Adjoining Taman Lagenda is the CHOGM Park, built to commemorate the 1989 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting or CHOGM, in Langkawi. Until recently, the park carried the flags of all the Commonwealth nations that participated. The park has a man-made beach next to it and a children’s play area.

Oriental Village is an open-air lifestyle complex at the base of Mount Mat Cincang. The open-air attraction is famed for the marvellous Sky Cab and the Sky Bridge. The signature attraction of Oriental Village is the exhilarating cable-car ride to the top of Mount Chinchang. It is Malaysia’s longest cable car ride. During the 15-minute ride, one gets dramatic views of Seven Wells Waterfall, the slopes of the magnificent mountain and Langkawi Island. The ticket price is inclusive of return fare and passes to the SkyRex, SkyDome and 3D museums. Tickets can be purchased either from the ticket kiosk or online. The Sky Cab takes one to the 125-metre-long Sky-Bridge. Standing at a height of 700 metres, the curved suspended bridge is a great point to click some amazing pictures. Spread over an area of 21,000 square feet, the 3D Art Museum has over 100 interactive artworks, making it a favourite among kids. Set in the lap of nature, the Animal Farm houses small animals and costs RM1 to enter.

The biggest aquarium in Malaysia, Underwater World Langkawi, is home to more than 4000 marine life forms, spanning over 60,000 square feet. Located at the southern end of Pantai Cenang, the main attraction of the huge, white-washed structure is the Jurassic Arapaima, the biggest freshwater fish in the world. The Underwater World Complex is divided into three separate sections: Sub Antarctic, Tropical and Temperate. The major highlight of these three is the Sub Antarctic section, which is home to the popular penguinarium featuring rockhopper penguins. In the tropical sections, visitors will find themselves in a tropical rainforest with birds and animals endemic to this region. The highlight of this section is the Marmoset, the smallest monkey in the world. The temperate section features fur seals from South America and Africa, with a daily show at 2:30 pm where a trainer feeds them in front of an audience. The world’s biggest freshwater fish, Arapaima, sits at the entrance of the aquarium and is a prominent attraction in the building. The River Ecosystem features fish species from various parts of the world and houses unique marine life creatures. Visitors can walk through a 15-meter tunnel while being surrounded by fish and other marine creatures. The Coral Reef Section, which is the last section of the aquarium, shows the relationship between coral reefs and other marine life forms. Other highlights of Underwater World include a 3D theatre, an educational resource center, and a cafeteria. The 3D Theatre is where one can watch the story of a prehistoric fish and how it became a fossil. Underwater World is open from 10 am to 6 pm during the week and on weekends and public holidays, it is open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. Entry fees for Malaysians are RM 33 for adults and RM 23 for children, while for non-Malaysians, it is RM 43 for adults and RM 33 for children.

The Pulau Payar Marine Park, located about 30 km from the main island of Langkawi, is a popular scuba diving and snorkelling destination. Here, one can observe the natural habitat of various species of fish and baby sharks and feed them. This island comprises four smaller islands, all of which are uninhabited and are highly monitored to prevent any degradation of the virginal marine life. The stunning island also has jade green rainforests forming a natural border around it, which is not open to all tourists but can be accessed only with special permission from the authorities. The marine park can be accessed only as part of some tour packages affiliated with the Fisheries Department of Kedah to promote the conservation of marine life and raise awareness against coral bleaching and degradation. There are about 15 diving sites located at different points around the island, with separate provisions for beginners and more experienced drivers.

The Coral Garden is the most popular diving and snorkelling point on this island, as this region absolutely teems with coral reefs and newly formed corals. The special snorkelling points allow one to immerse themselves amongst the friendly aquatic creatures and easily spot a school of eels, pufferfish, snappers or even batfish and the Titan triggerfish. There is a special coral park that has a huge variety of rare, colourful corals that are highly monitored and protected from visitors. Special permission from the authorities has to be obtained to visit the coral park. Admission to Coral Park is RM 180 for an adult, RM 150 for a child between 3 and 11 and RM 100 for an infant. There are certain marked areas located in the offshore areas of the Coral Gardens where one can feed the school of fish. Also, there is a special point where one can feed baby sharks, either from the jetty itself or in the shallow water, once the shark caller calls them for their next meal. Entry fees for the feeding area is RM !50 for an adult and EM 130 for a child.

And with this, we end our visit to the state of Kedah. Our next state, the state of Perlis, is one of the smallest and the last of the states on Peninsular Malaysia. That will come to you next week, so watch this space!

Travel Bucket List: Malaysia Part 40 – Kedah Part 4

Posted on April 5, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Located on the western part of Langkawi, the pristine Pulau Beras Basah Island is just 25 km southwest of Kuah, offering a crystal-clear sea and an amazing sea-diving experience. One of Langkawi’s most popular tourist spots, Pulau Beras Basah, is covered by lush greenery, giving a panoramic view of the island amidst the sparkling water. It can be reached by speedboats, boats, or cars. Washroom facilities and small food carts are available in the island.

It is believed that a ship sailing towards the Straits of Makassar carrying food and rice toppled in the sea, spilling off all the food carried. In the shallow water, the food, especially the rice, did not sink into the water but stayed afloat, forming a large rice mound. It is said that, with time, this white mound got transferred into the white sand of the island. In Malay, the word beras means rice and basah implies wet. Hence the name of the island.

Rebak Island is a beautiful and isolated island that houses a luxury resort. Sprawling across 390 acres, this island is one of the most secluded islands of Langkawi which makes it the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. One can relax and rejuvenate on the golden sandbanks.

Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach on the island, with operators offering visitors watersport opportunities like jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, water skiing, and speed boat rides. Located on the western shoreline of Langkawi, Pantai Cenang offers a vibrant nightlife with its splendid beachfront bars and classy lounges. Pantai Cenang is a popular family tourist destination offering various children – friendly attractions such as Underwater World and Kiki Club. With duty-free outlets and souvenir shops offering a wide range of imported goods, one can also enjoy strolling along the Pantai Cenang road.

Located at the southern end of Pantai Cenang is Malaysia’s biggest aquarium and one of the island’s best-known attractions. The Underwater World houses more than 200 species of marine and freshwater fish and is built to create awareness about the need to conserve aquatic life forms. Visitors walk through a 15-meter-long tunnel that is full of different fish and look at the different marine creatures.

Laman Padi, which means a rice field, is a vast complex that explains the process and evolution of rice cultivation and harvesting and consists of rice fields, herb gardens and galleries. The museum showcases different tools used in rice farming. The other attractions include a floating rice garden and cottages built in the traditional themes.

The Temoyong Night Market is a weekly market that takes place every Thursday in Pantai Cenang. The market offers a variety of clothes, accessories, and bags, as well as street food, at decent prices. One can also experience go-karting at the Morac Adventure Park.

Situated along Pantai Pasir Hatim at the northern end of Langkawi, Tanjung Rhu is one of Malaysia’s best beaches. Secluded from the heavy crowd and buzz of the city, the 50-metre-wide beach is popular for its cleanliness, calming atmosphere and bewitching sunset views. In Malay, Tanjung means Cape and Rhu is from the species of evergreen trees, known as Sea Pine Tree. So, on the way to the beach, one can spot jungles of evergreen trees with green cliffs and a small lake with campers and few cafes. The public beach is separated from the privately-owned beach of Tanjung Rhu Resort by a fence.

Boating is one of the most popular activities at this pristine beach, with mangrove boats being the most preferred. Behind the stalls at the beach is a small river jetty from where boats can be rented for the Kilim Geopark and Mangroves boat tour. The sea at Tanjung Rhu is not too deep, making it ideal for swimming. In cases of low tides, a walk to the nearest island is very easily manageable and snorkelling close to the island can help one get a mind-blowing view of vibrant marine life. Along with the boating tours, there are jet ski tours mostly provided by the resorts, along with a tour to explore the beautiful limestone caves, mangroves, and catamaran sailing. The calm and clear water of the sea, fine and pure white sand, mini-islands, limestone rocks and wide area with no crowds create the perfect environment to shoot and get clicked. There are many couples and solo travellers enjoying the air and waiting for the sun to go down for the magical view of the sky.

Located 4 km away from Datai Bay, the secluded Pasir Tengkorak Beach is a hidden spot for locals. The white sandy beach is covered by shady rainforest and 500-million-year-old rock formations found on the ends of the beach. While the blue water is good for swimming, travellers can also trek down to the woods of Pantai Pasir Tengkorak and explore the three-tier Temurun waterfalls. Apart from camping, trekking, and sunbathing, the Pasir Tengkorak beach has its own picnic tables, prayer halls, toilets, and an adjacent small snack cart, too. Also known as Sandy Skulls Beach, this beach is home to troops of monkeys and thousands of jellyfish.

Some believed that after a destructive hailstorm in the Strait of Malacca, the washed-off bodies of sailors crowded up on the coastline of the beach. From there, signifying the dead sailors or the dead skulls, the name has been derived. Some believed that the dead skulls belonged to the escaping prisoners from the Ku Taruto Island prison, in the far north of Langku Islands. Many still believe that the sandy skulls were the consequences of some sea-monster.

The Black Sand Beach, which is fully covered with black sand and clear water, is a popular leisure spot during the weekends. The black colour of the sand comes due to the mineral content of the Mount Raya granites deposited on the golden sand. Also known as Pantai Pasir Hitam because of the black sand, the beach is famous for an ancient wooden jetty and a fishing village. Though the beach is not suitable for swimming, it is still one of the most prominent beaches in the southwest area of Tanjung Rhu. The beach houses many small huts, which can be used as picnic spots. Kids can enjoy the playground filled with ample thrilling swings and slides. For a shopping spree, visitors can explore the souvenir shop and handicraft emporiums situated just 3 minutes away from the beach. You may also enjoy some delicacies and street food dishes from the stalls set up on the beachside.

The black sand beach is a mystical beach that is extremely popular. Locals believe that the black sand is the residue of the fight that happened between Garuda and a Roman prince. The Garuda, a crossbreed between an eagle and a human, kidnapped a beautiful princess whose fiancée was a Roman prince. To rescue the princess, the prince fought with Garuda on this beach, which resulted in the beach’s black colour, the residue from the battle. Another myth attached to the black sand is of a mermaid princess who came to the land to marry a prince. Due to this, sea creatures and the kingdom got furious and came to the land for a fight with the land kingdom. The land ruler then lit a fire on the land of Langkawi to take revenge on the sea creatures. The fire turned the sand into ash, giving it its black colour. The best time to visit the black sand beach is in January and March. The beach sees heavy rainfall and high tides during other months of the year, making it unsuitable in terms of safety and weather conditions.

Datai Bay is a calm and secluded beach in the foothills of north-west Langkawi. Home to various exclusive resorts, the beach is surrounded by tropical rainforest and rich flora fauna habitat. Apart from enjoying the clear Andaman Seawater and relaxing amidst the graceful beaches, Datai Bay also offers ample of adventurous activities. One can hike towards the Mat mountainside area, play a round of golf in the Datai Bay Golf Course or plan a tour in the tropical jungle and explore exquisite animal habitats like peacocks, hornbills, monkeys, and iguanas.

Also known as Teluk Yu, Shark Bay Beach is a small and beautiful beach in Langkawi. The beach is quite popular for its tranquility and clear sea and it gets its name from the stone sharks engraved on the beachside. Spread over an area of 200 meters, the beach is an extension of the Black Sand Beach; however, it is filled with golden and white sand. No actual sharks can be spotted in the nearby sea that surrounds the island. The beautiful landscape and clear water, along with some rock formations, make the place perfect for a photoshoot.

Situated on Langkawi’s western headlands, the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, also referred to as Seven Wells Waterfalls, are the island’s most appealing natural attraction. The name signifies a series of seven intertwined natural pools that are fed by seven distinct waterfalls on Mount Mat Cincang. The Seven Wells Waterfalls are famed for the adventurous hike to the top, through a series of steps. The view from the top is awe-inspiring and full of flora like unique lime plants and Sintuk, which is used in traditional Malay ceremonies. A wide range of fauna can also be found here, including long-tailed macaque monkeys, hornbills, and giant cream-colored squirrels. The lower section of the pool can be reached with a little effort and extends swimming facilities. For a more intrepid experience, one can go higher up to the upper section of the waterfall, which rewards with the breathtaking view and the natural wonder. From the top of the Seven Waterfalls, a hiking trail leads to Mount Mat Cincang, which is perfect for those who wish to trek. Water flow at the Seven Wells Waterfalls is variable and can be close to empty during dry times. The best time to visit Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls is during the monsoon season, which is generally between September and October. The waterfalls are at their roaring best and the weather is cooler then.

According to legend, the Seven Wells Waterfall was home to the fairies, whom they transformed into in their bathing place. One day, a mountain prince tried to capture one of them and all the fairies left the waterfall forever, leaving behind only their healing properties. It is, therefore, believed that the waterfall has some medicinal value and healing powers.

Located in the Mat Cincang Nature Park at Datai, the Temurun Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Langkawi. Also referred to as Air Terjun Temurun, the three-tier waterfall provides a refreshing calm in the humid tropical weather. The breathtaking Temurun Waterfall originates from a black rock. The first tier is a short walk from the car park, which forms a shallow pool for children to play, swim and do family activities. After climbing 10 meters of steps to reach the topmost tier with a drop of 30 meters and a pool with a 100-foot waterfall, the visitors can be rewarded with a splendid view of the waterfall, which forms a natural pool at the base. The gazebos at the site also make it a notable picnic spot for the locals and a chilling venue for visitors. It is recommended to visit the Temurun Waterfall during the monsoon season, which falls between September and October, to be able to enjoy an adequate gush of water as the waterfall is seasonal. During July and August, there is heavy rainfall, and it can get very slippery. The rest of the dry months reduce the waterfall to a thin stream.

The Durian Perangin Waterfall is a 14-tier topographical magnificence set in a tropical rainforest in northeast Langkawi. The waterfall descends from the northern slope of the highest mountain on the island – Gunung Raya. The waterfall gets its name from the durian trees, sprawling in the area, that bear thorny fruits. It is a popular spot for canyoning. Access to the Durian Perangin Waterfall is free, making it a popular getaway for the locals from the scorching heat of Langkawi. Being a 14-tier waterfall, it offers views from different levels. A 200-meter climb from the entrance takes one to the top section of the waterfall. Along the steps, there are several small waterfalls and pools, which are different sections of the Durian Perangin Waterfall itself. This is a local favourite picnic spot, with many picnics happening in the hut-like structures called gazebos that surround the steps towards the waterfall. The landscaped pool on the grounds of the waterfall is perfect to cool off the heat. The waterfall is also a much-loved destination for adrenaline-seekers for it offers amazing canyoning tours. There are professional tourist outfits that offer these guided tours. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon season, i.e., September and October, as it is not a promising destination during the summer season.

Located at Jalan Air Hangat, Gunung Raya is the highest mountain in Langkawi, with an altitude of 881 metres. The mountain peak is a granite formation and is located at the centre of Langkawi, which provides an amazing panoramic view of the island and the surrounding seas. Gunung Raya is believed to be a cursed form of Mat Raya, a giant who once lived on the island. The D’Coconut Hill Resort at the top of the mountain houses an observation tower with the best of the views of the Andaman Sea, the mainland of Thailand and Langkawi at a cost of RM 10. A total of 4287 steps must be climbed to reach the top.

It is believed by the locals that there were two giants, Mat Cincang and Mat Raya, who were great friends, and their children were deeply in love. During the wedding ceremony, Mat Raya observed Mat Cincang’s son looking at another woman and a fight was initiated between the two giants. They threw pans and pots at each other. The place where the broken pot fell came to be known as the village of Belanga Pecah, which means broken pot in Malay, the place where the hot water fell came to be known as Air Hangat, which means hot water, the place where the wedding ring was dropped came to be known as Tanjung Cincin, or the cape of the ring; and the place where the gravy fell came to be known as Kuah or gravy. While the two giants were fighting, a third peaceful giant, Mat Sawar, tried to control them and settle the matter when a thunderbolt struck and froze all three giants as mountains. Mat Gunung and Mat Cincang are the two mountains and Bakit Sawar stands between the two as if trying to separate them. The peak also has a MEASAT Satellite Control Tower, a park and a museum.

Mount Machinchang is the oldest mountain range in Southeast Asia that was formed 550 million years ago, and provides a panoramic view of Burau Bay and Pantai Kok from the top. Covered by dense rainforest, Gunung Mat Cinang, as it is also named, is the second-highest peak of Langkawi, with a steep trail path guided by ropes. As high as 850 m, travellers can witness the Seven Wells waterfall at the beginning of their hike to the peak after climbing a few hundred staircases. Being one of the three UNESCO World Heritage Geoparks in Langkawi, Mount Machinchang exhibits a wide change in the flora structure from downwards to the peak, possessing dense giant trees at the base and small bushier trees and orchids at the top. Also known as Mount Mat Cincang, snack carts are available for trekkers at the base of Cincang. Visitors also crowd up on Mount Mat Cincang to experience the famous cable car ride, which moves passengers up to 709 m above sea level to the apex for a clear and astounding 360-degree unhindered view. Try to visit Mount Mat Cincang between November and March, as that is the best time to experience an adventurous trek. While the rainy season makes the entire trail slippery and dangerous, the hot summer sun makes it difficult for trekkers due to the temperature rise inside the dense rainforest. The cable car is open from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday to Thursday, from noon to 7 pm on Wednesday and from 9:30 am to 7 pm on the weekend.

Travel Bucket List: Malaysia Part 39 – Kedah Part 3

Posted on March 29, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Anak Bukit
Anak Bukit is the royal town of Kedah because the Sultan of Kedah’s royal palace and official residence, Istana Anak Bukit, is located here. It is also known to be the birthplace of the late Sultan of Kedah and the former Yang Di Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, Tuanku Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah, who reigned from 1958 until his death in September 2017.

In February 2009, the palace underwent a RM70 million facelift in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the reign of the sultan in 2008. This involved the construction of a new building that houses a new audience and dining halls that could accommodate 1,400 people at any one time. It replaced the existing audience and dining halls, which could only hold fewer than 1,000 people. The building was completed in October 2007.

Behind the royal palace there is a river stream called Sungai Anak Bukit and it flows through Alor Setar, connected by Sungai Kedah to the estuary of Kuala Kedah. There is also a mini zoo amidst the colourful flora of the royal gardens. Visitors are allowed into the royal gardens.

Anak Bukit is planned to be the new administrative capital of Kedah, replacing Alor Setar, which will continue to be the capital city and commercial centre of the state. Because of this, Anak Bukit is seeing massive growth in infrastructure and development.

Sungai Petani
Sungai Petani is Kedah’s largest city and is located about 55 km south of Alor Setar. It’s name comes the name of a river, Sungai Petani or Petani River, a tributary of the Merbok River. The word Petani might be related to the province of Pattani in Thailand and is said to derive from the Sanskrit word pathini, meaning a virgin nymph. Pathini was the name of a daughter of Merong Mahawangsa, the founder of the preceding Langkasuka Empire. When Kedah was known under the name of Langkasuka, traders always travelled between Merbok Valley and Pattani, and the eastern parts of Peninsular Malaysia through land routes. Thus, it is not impossible that the word Petani is borrowed from the name of the princess. Petani also means farmer in Malay, but it is unlikely that this is the origin of the city name as there are no sources pointing it to be the case.

The Sungai Petani Clock Tower is located on the main street, Jalan Ibrahim and was built in 1936. It is topped by a dome-shaped and gold coloured structure. The tower was a present from Lim Lean Teng to George V to commemorate his Silver Jubilee.

In the northern part of the town, about 30 km away, is Gunung Jerai, located 1,217 m above sea level. This is the tallest mountain in the northern region and is surrounded by a vast jungle. It is a navigational point for ships entering the Straits of Malacca from the north because it is visible from afar. There is an 18 km trekking route to the top of the mountain through a winding road. Atop the Jerai is a resort and the mountain boasts some tall and cooling waterfalls. Historically, the Jerai mountain served as the navigational point for traders from the east and west. There was a Hindu temple on top of the mountain that was built nearly a thousand years ago during the Bujang Valley Hindu Civilization.

Bujang Valley
Bujang Valley, or Lembah Bujang, sometimes referred to as the Ancient Wonder of Kedah, is a rich historical site covering about 224 sq km in Merbok, about 17 km from Sungai Petani. The valley lies between Gunung Jerai in the north and the Muda River in the south and is the richest archaeological area in Malaysia.

In Sanskrit, the term bhujanga refer to serpent, thus the name itself is roughly translated into Serpent Valley. The area consists of ruins that may date more than 2,535 years old. More than 50 ancient pagoda temples, called candi, have also been unearthed. The most impressive and well-preserved of these is in Candi Pengkalan Bujang which is more than 2535 years old.

The Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum is also located in Sungai Batu, where excavations have revealed jetty remains, iron-smelting sites, and a clay brick monument dating back to 110 AD, making it the oldest man-made structure to be recorded in Southeast Asia. Relics found in the Bujang Valley are now on display at the archaeological museum. Items include inscribed stone caskets and tablets, metal tools and ornaments, ceramics, pottery, and Hindu icons.

This archaeological area was the site of an ancient Hindu-Buddhist kingdom that ruled the region from the 4th century AD. There is also an archaeological museum here which is known as The Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum. This museum displays more than 2,500 artifacts from Malaysia’s earliest civilisation that have been unearthed from the surrounding excavation sites. Gold, gems, ceramics, Hindu gods, and Buddha stone statues dating from the third to 14th centuries are all on display, though its main feature is Candi Bukit Batu Pahat, a reconstructed temple built to worship the Hindu god, Lord Shiva.

In 2013, it was reported that, a 1,200-year-old Hindu Temple at the site, identified as Candi No. 11, had been demolished by a land developer. Candi 11 was one of the most ancient of the Old Kedah kingdom and was amongst 17 registered candi. After the controversy, the Tourism and Heritage Ministry has agreed to consider gazetting the Bujang Valley as heritage site.

The Bujang Valley is currently in the process of being nominated by Malaysia into the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2013. In 2017, the government announced that they will make more research and conservation efforts in the valley to preserve its outstanding universal value. The site’s inclusion to the world heritage list is backed by diplomats from India, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, Bangladesh, Japan, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Laos, Brunei, Papua New Guinea, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

A short distance away lies the enigmatic Dataran Zero Kilometre. Located in Sungai Petani, this is where the site marks the starting point for measuring distances across the peninsula. As you stand here, contemplate the journeys that began from this very spot—a convergence of history, trade, and culture.

The Gua Teluk Kelawar, or Bat Cave and the Bukit Tengkorak, or Skull Hill, beckon the explorer. One can explore the limestone caves, which have ancient inscriptions and artefacts. The panoramic views from Bukit Tengkorak offer a breathtaking panorama of the valley below.

Langkawi
Officially known by its sobriquet Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah or Langkawi Permata Kedah in Malay, Langkawi is a duty-free island and an archipelago of 99 islands plus five small islands visible only at low tide in the Strait of Malacca located some 30 km off the coast of northwestern Malaysia and a few kilometres south of Ko Tarutao, adjacent to the Thai border. Politically, it is an administrative district of Kedah, with Kuah as its largest town. Pantai Cenang is the island’s most popular beach and tourist area.

The name Langkawi is thought to have existed by the early 15th century, although in the 16th century the island of Langkawi was also marked on maps variously as Langa, Langka, Lansura, and Langapura. There are many suggestions for the origin of the name of Langkawi. According to one interpretation, Langkawi means island of the reddish-brown eagle, a Brahminy kite in colloquial Malay. The Malay word for eagle is helang which is colloquially shortened to lang, and kawi is a red stone used as a chalk to mark goods. This interpretation was used to create the landmark sculpture of an eagle as the symbol of Langkawi at Dataran Helang or Eagle Square in Kuah. Some believed that Langkawi is the same as, or related to, the Lanka or Langkapuri mentioned in Indian sources. The ancient name Lanka or Lankapura and Lankapuri, is found in Indian literature from an early period and is named in Ramayana as the city of the king Ravana, although the identification of the original Lanka is not certain. Puri or puram in Sanskrit means a town or city. The name Langkawi is also thought to be related to Langkasuka; an old kingdom believed to have links with Kedah. Some also thought that Langkawi means many beautiful islands, with langka being a Sanskrit word meaning beautiful and wi meaning many.

In 2008, the then-sultan of Kedah, Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, conferred the title of Langkawi Permata Kedah or Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah upon the island as part of his golden jubilee as an affirmation of Kedah’s ownership over the island.

Langkawi had long been at the periphery of, but closely associated with, the domain of the Kedah Sultanate. Legend tells of a great snake ular besar, the custodian of the Langkawi Islands, to which a new king of Kedah must sacrifice a virgin daughter whenever he ascended the throne, or when war was declared with another state.

The island of Langkawi was recorded in history by various travellers to the region. It was called Lóngyápútí in the 14th century by the Yuan dynasty traveller Wang Dayuan. When the Ming dynasty admiral Zheng He visited the region, the island was marked as Lóngyájiāoyǐ, on his map. In the 15th century, it was known to the Acehnese as Pulau Lada or Pepper Island.

Langkawi was historically home to Austronesian peoples, such as the orang laut or sea people originally from the southern part of the Malay Peninsula and Malay people. It had been thought to be cursed for a couple of centuries. According to local legend, in the late 18th century, a woman named Mahsuri was wrongfully accused of adultery and put to death. Before she died, she placed a curse on the island that would last for seven generations. Not long after Mahsuri’s death, in 1821, the Siamese army invaded Kedah and attacked Langkawi. In the first attack, the locals burned down the granary at Padang Matsirat to starve the Siamese army. The Siamese nevertheless captured the island in May 1822, killed its leaders, and took many islanders as slaves, while others fled.

The island was recaptured by the Siamese in 1837. In 1840–1841, the Sultan of Kedah, who went into exile after the Siamese attacks, was allowed to return by the Siamese. However, the Orang Laut, who fled after the Siamese attacks, did not return. In 1909, the islands came under British rule following the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909. The middle of the channel between Tarutao National Park and Langkawi became the Siamese border, with Tarutao to the north forming part of Siam, while the Langkawi islands to the south came under British rule. During the World War II, Siam took control briefly as British Malaya fell to the Japanese.

Langkawi was a haven for pirates who attacked junks in the northern part of the Strait of Malacca. In a series of operations, between December 1945 and March 1946, the British cleared the pirates’ land bases on Langkawi and Tarutao and continued to rule the island until Malaya gained its independence in 1957.

Langkawi remained a quiet backwater until 1986, when Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad transformed it into a major tourist resort, helping to plan many of the islands’ buildings himself. Mahsuri’s seven-generation curse was said to have lifted as a seventh-generation descendant of Mahsuri was born in the Thai province of Phuket. The island rapidly grew as a tourist destination, and by 2012, it received over three million tourists a year.

The main island is about 25 km from north to south and slightly more from east to west. Two-thirds of the island is dominated by forest-covered mountains, hills, and natural vegetation. The island’s oldest geological formation, the Machinchang Formation, was the first part of Southeast Asia to rise from the seabed in the Cambrian more than half a billion years ago. The oldest part of the formation is observable at Teluk Datai to the northwest of the island, where the exposed outcrop consists of mainly sandstone or quartzite in the upper parts and shale and mudstone in the lower parts of the sequence. On 1 June 2007, Langkawi Island was given a World Geopark status by UNESCO. Three of its main conservation areas in Langkawi Geopark are Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest park in the Island of the Pregnant Maiden Lake. These three parks are the most popular tourism area within Langkawi Geopark. In 2014, UNESCO issued a yellow card warning threatening the status of the Geopark.

Kuah, Kuah Town or Bandar Kuah is a resort town, and capital of Langkawi. It is the entry point for those coming by ferry from either the mainland or Penang Island. The town is centred on its jetty, which is a point of arrival for tourists from the mainland. Kuah has become a major town due to the growth of visitors after Langkawi developed into a tourist centre since 1986. There are a number of hotels in Kuah but it has no resorts, as the town has no proper beach despite being located by the sea. Kuah has many attractions and serves as a focal point for tourists wishing to visit other parts of Langkawi. Today, Kuah is a commercial centre with shopping complexes, restaurants, fast food outlets, hotels, and handicraft shops.

The name Kuah comes from the Malay word for gravy, and legend has it that the town arose from a cup of gravy spilled on the land by two giants, Mat Raya, and Mat Cincang, today the names of the two highest mountains in Langkawi, while they were fighting.

Island hopping on boats is one of the best things to do at Langkawi. Boats take tourists to two islands south of Langkawi’s main island and an eagle feeding spot near Singa Besar. In addition, one can visit the island of Dayang, where one can trek to the Lake of the Pregnant Woman, surrounded by mountains and dense forests. Boats also stop at Beras Basah, which is great for swimming, parasailing, and snorkeling.

A jet ski island hopping tour lets travelers take control of their journey exploring the islands around Langkawi. Led by a local guide, jet ski tours explore the Singa Besar island, the Beras Basah island, and the secluded Intan Kecil Island. The four-hour jet ski tour allows tourists to trek through the islands and explore the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.

Pulau Singa Besar is a lush green island in the southwest of Kuah. It is an unexplored and secluded island with almost no amenities, hence keeping the natural treasures intact in the lap of a tropical rainforest. Since there are no resorts or constructed buildings, the island is most visited for a camping tour. Also known as Singa Besar Island, meaning Big Lion Island, this gorgeous place is home to many exclusive birds and animal species. Tranquil beaches and mangrove forests around the island will make the visitors witness ample mouse deer, hornbills, snakes, peacocks, eagles, monkeys, and other flora fauna habitat. Eagle feeding sessions on the tour to Pulau Singa Besar gives some extraordinary captures. On the boat tour towards Pulau Singa Besar, one can feed some food bites and take a glimpse of white-bellied fish eagles and kite eagles in a flock grabbing the food. The island can also be explored by a jungle trekking session or swimming apart from lazing around the peaceful environment of the island.

Located just 15 mins from the Kuah Jetty, the second largest and uninhabited island of Malaysia, the Pulau Dayang Bunting island welcomes one to the quietness of the place amidst the wildlife. Also known as the Isle of Pregnant Maiden due to the shape of the Dayang Bunting island from afar, the jungle trekking experience is a must while visiting the island. Surrounded by the Guillemard freshwater lake, this Lake of the Pregnant Maiden is separated from the sea by a thin rock lining, making it a must-watch to its visitors. The adjacent Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park exhibits excellent limestone formation and several limestone caves. Dayang Bunting Island is filled with dense rain forest, resonating the vivid chirps of kingfishers along with 90 more species of birds wandering around. Dayang Bunting is an excellent place to enjoy swimming, cave exploring, and getting lost in the dense mangroves. Paddle Boats along with Kayaks are available to add to the fun. A small store for souvenirs and snacks is available in the island area to add to your travelling experience.

Legends and stories about the island are an important part of Malaysian folklore. It is believed that the princess of the Lake, Mambang Sari fell in love with Met Teja. Soon after, they got married and gave birth to their son. Unfortunately, the early demise of their son left them in dismay and princess Mambang Sari decided to rest their son in the water of the lake. She also blessed women who were having difficulty in giving birth. It is believed from then that any woman will become fertile once they take a dip in the water of this lake. Locals of Langkawi still believe this. Adding to the legend, if the lake is looked at from a distance, it is said that the curves of the hill behind make a silhouette of a pregnant lady lying down with her belly on the top, making the legend more affirmative.

The 15-minute walk from the jetty to the lake region is a jungle trekking amidst the mangroves, monkeys, and sudden bends. To make the walk easier and more convenient, a concrete stairway is used. A swim in Tasik Dayang Bunting is a mesmerizing experience for any swimmer. The average depth of water is 10 m and it is advisable that beginners not swim here. Life jackets are available on rentals and changing rooms are also available. The island is also an enchanting place for bird watchers, with hornbills, kites, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and many more birds easily sighted.

The Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park is an absolute must to see the amazing limestone formations of the region. It houses many caves and distinguished geological features. The lake of Pulau Dayang Bunting is a result of breaking down of the surface of one of the caves, which later got filled with water and gave rise to this freshwater lake.

Memories and Such

Memories of a very ordinary life

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