Terengganu, Malaysia

Terengganu, Malaysia

Despite the discovery of offshore oilfields, Terengganu with its fine beaches remains a holiday maker’s dream. Terengganu is one of the Malaysian states, which is endowed with a wealth of charming and refreshing natural landscapes. She has beaches, exotic islands, lush virgin tropical jungles, quaint fishing villages, and dazzling waterfalls. Her islands are among the most picturesque and fascinating.

Terengganu’s history goes back to as far as the 1st Century and has long been an important area of Malay settlement. Throughout that time up to the present day, Terengganu has been ruled by 16 Sultans.

Kuala Terengganu

These days, the capital is a hive of activity. Changes have been brought about and is showing marked changes in the skyline. New buildings are replacing the old ones; the general upliftment of the state’s economy brought about by oil and gas has provided an acceleration into industrialization. Yet, the charm of the old world is neither lost nor forgotten. Fishmongers can still be seen haggling over prices of various seafood. It is as if nothing has changed. It was the way of the old days and is still the way of the present day. This can be seen daily on the waterfront.

Terengganu State Mosque

The mosque was built on the estuary of Terengganu river and its intricate design gives viewers the impression that the mosque is actually floating on water. This place of worship is beautifully lit at night and provides a holy landmark for the city.

Marang

A picturesque fishing village that is furnished with tall swaying coconut trees, cool fresh air, an incredible beautiful lagoon, and a fleet of fish trawlers. Any visitor to Marang will be easily captivated by its natural beauty and simple ambience.

Chendering

About 6km south of Kuala Terengganu is “Sutera Semai Centre”. It is Malaysia’s pioneer silk weaving center where visitors can witness different stages of silk manufacturing. Here, visitors can witness the painting of batik designs onto the fabric, thus resulting in beautiful batik shirts, scarves, handkerchiefs, and more.

Kenyir Lake

Located in the interior part of Terengganu, Kenyir Lake is the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia. Covering an area of 369 sq. km, it is also Malaysia’s largest rock-filled hydroelectric dam. Sharing its border with Kelantan in the west and Pahang in the south, this immense lake also servers as another gateway to Malaysia’s National Park.

Sekayu Waterfalls, Kuala Berang

A favorite retreat for visitors and locals alike, it has seven cascades surrounded by its natural landscape of lush jungle-clad hills, a fruit orchard, a mini zoo, a bird park, a flower garden, and countless species of flora and fauna. Various facilities such as shelters, changing rooms, chalets, and rest-houses have also been provided for visitors’ convenience.

Rantau Abang

About 60km south of Kuala Terengganu, the beach at Rantau Abang is the venue for the annual migration of huge leatherback turtles. Visitors have to lay in wait quietly from midnight to dawn to watch giant leatherback turtles laying eggs. These giant turtles, up to 2.5m in length and sometimes weighing more than 375kg, is indeed a phenomenal sight to behold. From the months of May to September, Rantau Abang is one of only six places in the world visited by these turtles.

On the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia are some of the most beautiful underwater spots in the country. And they are located off Terengganu’s coastline. Among the numerous beaches in Terengganu, visitors should at least visit Redang Island, the Perhentian Islands, and Kapas Island.

Redang Island

Redang Island is a scuba diver’s paradise, which is located 50km from Terengganu. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, pearly white shores, a colorful Array of spectacular marine life, a breathtaking sunset, and what could be the world’s most mature coral garden.

Perhentian Islands

Situated 21km off the coast of Terengganu, Perhentian Islands consist of two islands: Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, which are both tropical paradises.

Kapas Island

A long kept secret by lovers of the underwater world, this island offers many secluded areas, which are unspoiled and quiet.