Attraction Places At Terengganu

List Of Interesting Places In Terengganu, Malaysia

Kenyir Lake / Tasik Kenyir

Tasik Kenyir is the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, spanning 260,000 hectares.  It is also Malaysia's largest rock filled hydroelectric dam. When the area was flooded, most of the hills were above the water level, thus creating about 340 man-made islands. The rainforest that cradles the area furnishes the lake with an incredible assortment of flora and fauna. 

These include rare ferns, exotic orchids, hornbills, elephants, and panthers. It is also home to more than 8,000 species of flowers, 2,500 species of plants and trees, 800 species of orchids, and 300 species of fungus. It is a popular retreat for nature lovers as it is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.  It is also an anglers haven as the lake is home to hundreds of species of freshwater fish like Baung, Toman, Kelisa, Lampam and Kelah. 

Surounded by a vast tropical jungle, the lake area is a popular spot for angling, boating, canoeing, jungle- trekking, 4WD driving and golfing. Accommodation varies from a 3 star resort, chalets on the islands, floating resort or houseboats where rooms and meals are provided. The houseboat travels to waterfalls and fishing sites providing an exhilarating adventure for nature lovers. Tasik Kenyir is also a gateway to Taman Negara through Tanjung Mentong.

Pulau Redang / Redang Islands

Pulau Redang, located 45km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu, is the largest of a group of nine protected islands dotting the South China Sea off the Terengganu coast. The island offers crystal clear waters and numerous dive sites for enthusiasts. Sheltered within the Pulau Redang Marine Park, the waters here are rich in marine life. At midday when sun rays penetrate the sea, brilliant hues of coral, anemones and fish can be seen. 

The waters around Pulau Redang also contain two historic shipwrecks: The H.M.S. Prince of Wales and H.M.S. Repulse, which sank here at the start of World War II, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya. This paradise island is perfect for snorkelling, swimming, scuba- diving, jungle trekking, boating and canoeing. No fishing is allowed within a 3.2km radius of the island as Pulau Redang is gazetted as a marine park. The collection of corals and other aquatic life is also strictly prohibited. Berjaya Resort offers a golf course in an idyllic setting.

Pulau Perhentian / Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are two islands named Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island) andPulau 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.

Lang Tengah Island / Pulau Lang Tengah

Pulau Lang Tengah is a very small island located between Perhentian Island and Redang Island. This little island is accessible by a 30-minute boat ride from the Merang jetty. According to locals, Lang Tengah takes its name from 'Lang' which comes from helang which means 'eagle' in the Malay language, and tengah, meaning 'middle'. Thus, Lang Tengah means eagles resting on the middle island. 

The island is very small indeed. A round-island trip by speed boat takes only 10 minutes. The beach is narrow and land is limited. However, its small size gives it its best advantage - Lang Tengah Island holds only 4 resort operators, ensuring a peaceful visit. And the winning attraction of this tiny and peaceful island? Some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in Malaysia!

Pulau Kapas / Kapas Islands

About 6km off the coast of Marang is Pulau Kapas, an island renowned for its clear waters, sandy white beaches and swaying palms. Kapas Island is situated offshore about 30 minutes by slow boat or 10 minutes by fast boat from Marang jetty, 20 minutes south of Kuala Terengganu. Relatively isolated from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, this island is the perfect getaway for those looking for some blissful relaxation. It is a lovely small island with beautiful, quiet, unspoiled sandy beaches; cool and clear blue waters, swaying coconut trees and caves with swallows nests. Its waters are home to beautiful marine life such as fish, turtles, corals and others. 

Making it a must-visit destination, especially for discerning divers and snorkellers, is the incredible variety of hard and soft corals, seashells, fish and turtles. The laidback atmosphere gives a perfect excuse to do nothing. Still, if you are feeling restless, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied. Take your pick: diving, swimming, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and even fishing.  Accommodation varies from deluxe and budget chalets offering air conditioned or fan.

Pulau Duyong / Duyong Island

Pulau Duyong is an island in the mouth of Terengganu River in the state of Terengganu, Malaysia. Previously, it was divided into Pulau Duyong Besar and the smaller Pulau Duyong Kecil, but sedimentation and reclamation have united it as well as changed its coastline substantially. A seaward extension has been developed into the Heritage Bay Resort which hosts the annual Monsoon Cup yacht race.

Just 2km off shore from Kuala Terengganu, lay Pulau Duyung, an island where the art of boat building runs in the blood of some of its inhabitants. Pulau Duyung is perhaps the most well known boat-building centres in Terengganu. Most of the boats built here are regular fishing boats, but there are a few exceptions. But even so, the craftsmanship of every boat built here is immaculate.

The Islamic Heritage Park / Taman Tamadun Islam

The Islamic Heritage Park or Taman Tamadun Islam is a famous attraction in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia. This park is located at the island of Wan Man.I slamic Civilisation Park (TTI) is a theme park that highlights the benefits of heritage and Islamic architecture from all over the world that is situated on the island of Wan Man, Kuala Terengganu previously considered vacant and filled with palm forest. This theme park is one of the economic development project of the East Coast Economic Region. 

The theme park was built in March 2005 not only surrounded by replicas of mosques from around the world and even a mosque also a new landmark of Kuala Terengganu which stands proudly Crystal Mosque.

Terengganu State Museum / Muzium Terengganu

Acclaimed as the largest museum in South East Asia, the Terengganu State Museum Complex houses century old artefacts and artworks of rich and colourful heritage. Located on 27 hectares of land in Bukit Losong, Kuala Terengganu, the complexes itself are an impressive architectural feat, based on the designs of Terengganu's old palace. It comprises a Main Museum, a Maritime Museum, a Fisheries Museum, four traditional houses and botanic and herb gardens. The Main Museum is built on 16 concrete stilts with galleries showcasing textiles and weaving techniques, traditional weapons, crafts, historical, royal regalias, nature, petroleum development, Islamic arts, new generation and contemporary arts. The other four blocks are adjoined, to represent a large family. At the main entrance of the main complex, lays the famous original Batu Bersurat of Terengganu. 

Visitors from hotels may contact any of the local travel agencies to arrange for a fun Kuala Terengganu Town Tour which includes a visit to the State Museum. Or take the traditional boat cruise along the Terengganu River that also stops at the State Museum. For those wishing to drive to the Museum, they have to take the route to Kampung Losong which is famous for its keropok lekor, a famous local delicacy. From there one can see the majestic looking museum, on top of Bukit Losong.

Hutan Lipur Lata Tembakah

Hutan Lipur Lata Tembakah or Recreational Forest of Lata Tembakah which was develops in the years 1986 are located in the Forest Reserve of Simpan Pelagat in Besut. Which is about 25km fromPekan Seri Langkap or 130km from Kuala Terengganu. Lata Tembakah is one of the most famous recreational forests in Terengganu as it is the home of the famous Lata Tembakah Waterfall and are the only forest which are majority and concentrate by the Meranti and Keruing tree.

The Lata Tembakah waterfall is an 50 m high waterfall which formed seven beautiful -tiered cascading level of waterfall. Which created an unique landmark to Hutan Lipur Lata Tembakah. With a beautiful pool on each of the seven – tiered waterfall. Beside the waterfall, there are also many rapids and small pond which are suitable for swimming, bathing and playing in the water. Every visitor including nature and adventure lovers will enjoy the jungle trekking activities along the trek and the overhang bridge. The trek and trail are well organise by the Forestry Department, to educated the many layman of the many flora and fauna that can be found in the forest and its benefit and the important of conservation of the forest and its effect to human kind. 

Being blessed with many natural vegetation and beautiful waterfall, rapid and stream, the area is a great place to have a picnic with family and friends over the weekend .The waterfall here are beautiful and alluring that you will cannot resist to enjoy a dip in its cold and refreshing river and waterfall that are crystal clear. The small pool and stream will also entertain the many children here as they will enjoy looking and trying to catch the many little fish and little shrimp that swim along they leg and feet.

There are many conveniences that are prepare here like chalet, rest house, camping ground for traveler who want to stay overnight. With many changing room and toilet along the river and park that can be found here. Beside that they are also Information both,resting hut and many souvenir shop can be found here .From morning to late afternoon 5.30 pm you can find many food stall that can be find at the gate of Hutan Lipur Lata Tembakah. The Recreational Forest in Malaysia are created to let human be close with nature which in the end will create and awareness and mutual respect among us toward the forest and to lead a healthy mindand body to the many visitor that came here.

Hutan Lipur Sungai Cemerung

Hutan Lipur Sungai Cemerung is one of the most famous Recreational Forest in Malaysia as uniquely, it is the home of The Highest Waterfall in Malaysia : the Cemerung Waterfall and the world two largest and oldest Cengal tree in the world and the most beautiful and scenic Recreational Forest in the whole peninsular Malaysia. As you are approaching the recreational forest from far a way you will see along strict of white colour in the middle of the green valley.The closer you get to it you will see a towering white water gushing down from the valley like a stairway to heaven. 

The Cemerung Waterfall is an 305m high beautiful and magnificent waterfall which lay at the wall of East Coast Mountain Range, The 305 meters of gushing white water streaked down to the many beautiful steep rock faces before smashing into a cloud of spray all around the waterfall as is the whole place are still in the early morning mist.

Pasar Payang

Pasar Payang is a must-visit especially for the first-time visitors to this Sea turtle state (Negeri Penyu). Located just a few minutes walk north along the pier from the inter-city bus station and Located just by the Sungai Terengganu (Terengganu River).

Pasar Besar Kedai Payang (Payang ‘s Big Market Shop) or Pasar Payang in short (also known as Central Market) is the lifeline of KT. Located by the Terengganu River, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in KT, not only for shopping but also to have a taste of life in KT. It is also close to the Shabandar jetty, making it ideal for a short stop en route to the islands off the coast Pasar Payang serves as both a wet market as well as a trade centre for the local community. There is a festive air as you approach the entrance of the market, with makeshift stalls lining the path, displaying trinkets of all kinds. In their loudest voice, these peddlers will impress you with the alleged magical powers of the amulets, the potency of their traditional medicines, or the quality of their precious stones.

Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque / Masjid Terapung

Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque (Masjid Terapung) is built on a floating platform, giving it a unique perspective from all facets. It sits snuggly on the estuary of Terengganu River and its modern architecture is due to the ingenuity of one of the princes in Terengganu. The glistening white mosque combines modern and Moorish architecture, symbolizing a new modernisation in the state, making it an Islamic icon in the country. The design of the mosque reflects a subtle Islamic influence combined with local features, incorporating the use of marble, ceramics, mosaic works and bomanite paving. 

The mosque, was built by an idea inspired from the late Sultan of Terengganu, Al- Marhum Sultan Mahmud Al- Muktafi Billah Shah ibni al- Marhum Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah.  This beautiful mosque was named after his mother, Tuanku Intan Zaharah binti Almarhum Tengku Seri Setia Raja. The architectural beauty of the mosque is surrounded by a lake, looking enchantingly inspirational much like a place in the tale of 1,001 Arabian Nights. The calmness of the mosque is enhanced with the roaring of the South China Sea, making it an alluring and unique tourist attraction in Terengganu.

Chinatown Kuala Terengganu

KT's Chinatown / kuala terenggabu chinatown is located along Jalan Bandar. It is small but charming with colorful shophouses and still has the traditional feel with small stores, cafes and restaurant.KT's Chinatown is located along Jalan Bandar (formerly known as Jalan Kampung Cina) at the river mouth of Terengganu River that empties into the South China Sea. If you overnight at the hotel / hostel in town and wish to pay the islands a visit, it is convenient and easy as the boats depart from the jetty next to Chinatown to the islands. The town is small but charming with colorful shophouses along both sides of the road that carries traditional flavor. Small grocery shops, a morning market, butcher shops, hardware shops, kopitiams (literally means coffee shops), cafes, restaurants and so on can be found in this humble little town. The kopitiams, cafes and restaurants offer local delicacies from mostly Chinese, but also Malay and Indian food. Start your day in town with an empty stomach and you will be sure to be satisfied with the food at the end of the day.

• The above list is just a small part of a must-visit if you are visiting the state of Terengganu, so for those of you who have info / additional information on other interesting areas that are not listed in the Terengganu state may share in the comment section as a reference and information together.
• Most of the info and pictures are taken from google, website Terengganu state tourism & tourism website Malaysia & if there is any mistake or error information e-Tourism bloggers Malaysia irresponsible.