Saturday, February 28, 2009

Pulau Perhentian (Terengganu)



After less than an hour on a boat from the east coast of Malaysia, the laid-back atmosphere and the natural beauty of the Perhentian islands immediately transport you to a different world. The white sand is dotted with sun-worshipping holiday makers, some retreating to the shade for a glass of freshly squeezed juice. A group of scuba divers are boarding a boat to venture out into the turquoise waters and submerge themselves in the underwater wonderland. Later, as the sun sets, a quiet buzz of music and chatter fills the air, together with the thin wisp of smoke from the barbeque fire.

The Perhentian Islands are two islands named Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island) and Pulau Perhentian Besar (Large Perhentian Island). The Malay name Perhentian is translated as “place to stop” and this is exactly what these two islands were for traders travelling between Malaysia and Bangkok in years gone by. These islands are still a gorgeous place to stop and rest today, albeit for tourists disconnecting from the stress and routine of everyday life and not for weary seafaring traders.

The islands remain relatively untouched and the only permanent inhabitants live in a small fishing village on Perhentian Kecil. Apart from footpaths that cut through the jungle, there are no roads on the islands. The only way to get around is by walking through the jungle or taking a sea taxi. If you tread carefully, you may even encounter some of the islands’ shy wildlife on the way, such as monitor lizards, fruit bats, squirrels or even the elusive mouse deer. Simple chalets and some moderately luxurious resorts line the picturesque beaches along with restaurants, dive centres and boat operators advertising their services with hand-painted signs.

Perhaps it is the stretches of white beach or the crystal clear water and the superior scuba diving. Perhaps it is the untouched forests or the relaxed atmosphere and unspoiled charm. We like to think that is a little bit of all of this that makes the Perhentian Islands the perfect place to stop and take some time out.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Gua Kelam (Perlis)


Gua Kelam, Kaki Bukit refers to the 370-metre long limestone cave at the small town of Kaki Bukit. Its name literally means "at a foothill (Kaki Bukit) lies a dark cave (Gua Kelam)". Access to the cave is by way of a suspension bridge. The uniqueness of approach, as well as the experience of walking along the bridge, make a visit to this place an intriguing and adventurous experience.

A subterranean stream flows in the limestone range near Kaki Bukit for about a quarter of a mile long. As in other limestone areas, the stream has built a long cavern over the centuries. This physiographic phenomenon was enlarged throughout the length of the underground stream in 1935 by a resident Englishman who saw it as a marvellous way of transporting tin ore from a mine located near the stream entrance through the underground cavern.

A wooden walkway hangs suspended throughout the length of the underground cavern providing a wondrous means of communication from Kaki Bukit to a valley on the opposite end - the Wan Tangga Valley.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Gunung Jerai

Gunung Jerai (Kedah Peak)



Formerly known as "Kedah Peak", this forest-clad Gunung Jerai is a massive limestone outcrop that rises 1200m above sea level. As the highest peak in the state, it adds a touch of variety to the scenic flat plains seen throughout the area. It's located near Sungei Petani, not far from the island of Penang. When you've been on Penang you must have seen the Gunung Jerai (across the sea) on the mainland. From the historical viewpoint, Gunung Jerai plays an important part in the history of Kedah. Even before the Malacca Sultanate became famous, Indian and Arab merchants were already making a beeline for the Merbok estuary at the foothills. After travelling from the Bay of Bengal, the first glimpse of this strategically located mountain was a welcoming beacon to the sea farers. As a result, they traded and even settled down at the foothills. Considering this place to be sacred, traders built a complex of temples that have now been excavated and preserved at the Lembah Bujang Archeological Museum site. Like all other mountains, Gunung Jerai has its fair share of history and fascinating tales. Legend has it that Raja Bersiong, the 'king of fangs', once had his ancient kingdom within the Bujang Valley, at the foot of the mountain. Recent archeological findings revealed the existence of the "Temple of the Ninth Water Pool"; many believe that it was Raja Bersiong's private pool.
Relics uncovered in the area provide evidence of a Hindu-Buddhist civilisation dating back to the fourth century A. D. Isolated from the other mountain ranges of Peninsular Malaysia, Gunung Jerai has a unique range of medicinal plants and herbs not found in other mountains. Today, Gunung Jerai is Kedah's premier hill resort and recreational park. On a clear day atop the peak, the cool, refreshing mountain offers spectacular views of the rolling paddy fields of Kedah stretching up to Perlis, and the islands of Penang in the south and Langkawi in the north-west.

Langkawi Island

Langkawi Beaches

Langkawi’s beaches are simply some of Malaysia’s best. From the sandy bays to the sweeping coastlines, the island’s beaches are renowned among locals, beach-bummers and revellers from across the world. Here are some of the more popular ones.


Pantai Cenang


The most popular beach in Langkawi is carpeted by fine, white grains of sand that doesn’t stick to you – this is the hallmark of a good beach. Delightful coconut trees and elegant casuarinas line the 2 km (1.2 miles) stretch of sand with resorts and chalets mushrooming in between.

Pantai Tengah



Pantai Tengah is located contiguously with Pantai Cenang, and is the shorter of the two at 1-km long in contrast with Pantai Cenang’s 2-km stretch of sand. However, Pantai Tengah, which means ‘Middle Beach’, is actually a peaceful and tranquil alternative to t he hustle and bustle of Pantai Cenang, making this beach very suitable for families or romantic couples. Pantai Tengah also has its fair share of nice dining spots, beach activities and comfortable resorts, though the nightlife is not near as exciting as Pantai Cenang.


Pantai Kok


Pantai Kok is a beautiful and isolated stretch of beach in the northeast section of Langkawi Island. This beach has a marina which is popularly known as Telaga Harbour as well several recreational attractions including a cable-car ride to the peak of Mat Cincang Mountain and the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls. The Pantai Kok area is a relatively undisturbed location and much of the natural scenery is still intact, making this an ideal place to visit for those who love nature or want a quieter holiday destination.

Pantai Pasir Hitam


As the name means ‘Black Sand’, this is an unusual beach with a strange colouration. The sand is mixed in white and black shades, giving the illusion of pollution. On the contrary, the rich tin and mineral deposits (iron ore) in the area wash up on the shore constantly, creating that false notion.


Tanjung Rhu

Tanjung Rhu, located in the north, is also known as the ‘Casuarina Beach’ for its abundance of Casuarina trees rather than the usual palms and coconuts. Tanjung Rhu is sheltered by the curve of the bay while its waters are shallow and warm. Life here is low, relaxed and soothing, perfect for a therapeutic getaway. During the low tide, it is also possible to walk across a sandbank to some nearby islands; Pulau Pasir and Pulau Gasing.



Datai Bay

Hidden by a tropical rainforest, the Datai Bay offers an exclusive retreat for the rich and famous. Some of the country’s most expensive resorts are located here. The secluded beach in the bay offers gorgeous sights, including a view of Thailand’s coast-line on a clear day. Besides beaching yourself, you can also explore the surrounding tropical rainforest and admire the gems of Malaysia’s natural heritage.



Burau Bay

This stunning beach lined with rocky outcrops is located at the West Coast of Langkawi. Several world-class hotels operate in this area which offers a peaceful and tranquil environment for relaxation and quiet meditation. The near-by Burau island is also a roosting place for migratory birds – a treasure trove for bird-watchers.



Pantai Teluk Yu

It may mean ‘Bay of Sharks’ but the area is peaceful and seemingly devoid of triangular-finned creatures. The wide, sandy beach continues where the stretch from Pantai Pasir Hitam breaks off but lacks the black pigmentation. The Teluk Ewa Jetty is located here.

Best Place In Malaysia


There are a lot of wonderful place in Mlaysia for vacation. All state in Malaysia have their own unique place. We have Gua Kelam at Perlis. Then we also have Pulau Langkawi which situated at Negeri Kedah. There are many more wonderful place in Malaysia that is really good for family vacation or honeymoon. In this blog i will give some tips and share some picture anout wonderful place in Malaysia. May be this blog can give some idea for you to choose where you want to spend your holiday.