image credit: Nirian/Getty ImagesWhether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, conservationist or simply a seeker of comfort, an uninterrupted getaway at a luxury island resort is something that everyone craves. Malaysia is undoubtedly one of the best and most affordable options for nature-friendly luxury resorts, especially those located on its many mesmerising islands.
Some of these island and beach resorts in Malaysia have gone the extra mile to provide the utmost luxury without disturbing the ecological balance. Additionally, they offer activities that educate and make you more aware of the environment. After all, what is better than a luxury getaway where you bring home more knowledge?
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While some island resorts in Malaysia are perfect for couples, others are kid-friendly. Confused about which one to pick for a tranquil holiday over the next long weekend? We’ve got you covered.
12 best island resorts in Malaysia for your next luxury vacation
The Danna, Langkawi
Image credit: The Danna
Sitting pretty at the doorstep of some of Langkawi’s major attractions — the SkyBridge, Seven Wells Waterfall, and the Oriental Village, the Danna is a majestic addition to the city’s prime beachfront. Blending colonial architecture with contemporary minimalism, the 125-room luxury property works its whimsical magic, on a canvas of creams, beiges, and other neutral palettes. The vast central courtyard is embellished with landscaped greenery and fish ponds, thus contributing to a feeling of tranquillity. The soaring ceilings add to the ambience while its three-tier pool — the largest infinity pool on the island — keeps you happily cocooned in vacation mode. Relaxing cabanas, slouchy chairs, and beanbags line the sea-facing al-fresco space.
The Danna’s main restaurant, Planter’s, serves excellent Mediterranean, European-inspired, and local cuisine which can be enjoyed both indoors or on the terrace. The rooms come with dark wood interiors and a largely natural colour scheme. There’s also an outdoor hot tub and a children’s pool. Inside, you’ll also find a spa with nine treatment rooms, a fitness room, a games room with billiards, snooker, and board games, as well as a library.
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysian Borneo
Image credit: The Shangri-La
An embodiment of the brand’s signature aesthetic with its white marble, heavy wooden furniture and contemporary art, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort finds itself rebelliously jutting out into its own peninsula in the Borneo region of Malaysia. The resort is divided into two sections for guests to enjoy: Rooms in the Kinabalu Wing face either the sea or mountains; while those in the Tanjung Wing face only the sea. The facilities at this Shangri-La property extend beyond the regular secluded beach and manorial central block. Think sunrise yoga, kayaking lessons, and the extremely fun, coconut bowling.
Attendees can choose from a variety of gastronomic experiences available within the premise. Shang Palace, the resort’s Chinese eatery, and Peppino’s, the Italian alternative, offer formal dining, while the lively cooking stations of Café TATU are more casual. The most enjoyable, however, is Coco Joe’s: a zany, al fresco restaurant serving grills, huge mains, cocktails, and unhindered sea views.
Image credit: The Marriott
Unparalleled luxury takes a new form with the St. Regis’s Langkawi property. Nestled on the beachside island town of Kuah, the massive architectural marvel impresses with its Middle Eastern-inspired white walls and wooden arches. Inside, the decor of The Mansion feels reminiscent of a cool European city hotel with high ceilings, white lounges, and local art. The main highlight, however, is the Kayu Puti: a wooden beach house built over the ocean, and designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. International antiques, seashells, and throne-like chairs with peacock feathers are found inside, with the structure serving as a prime spot for sunset cocktails.
The resort’s Pantai Grill offers wood-fired cooking on the sand, offering delicacies like steaks and snapper, ceviche, and tacos. Kayu Puti’s innovative Asian-inspired cuisine, especially signature seafood dishes such as the parmesan-crusted grouper are audience favourites. Breakfast at L’Orangerie has everything from croissants and champagne to Chinese dumplings, with Moroccan and Middle Eastern dishes on the menu, such as shakshuka.
Image credit: The Four Seasons
Cleverly tucked away within a UNESCO World Geopark — Southeast Asia’s first, Langkawi’s Four Seasons Resort is an enigmatic space sandwiched between lush thickets of landscaped greenery, limestone rock formations, and powder-white sands of their own private beach. Spread amidst 48 acres of land, the luxury property is lined with mangroves, winding rivers, and ancient limestone caves for guests to discover. Be it the beachfront or forest-facing rooms, the resort is an eclectic mix of Moorish-inspired architecture and traditional Malay-style pavilions. The expansive wood-beamed ceilings and revived teak floors with bold accents of blues and teals enliven the space, creating an island-side oasis for luxury lovers.
The sprawling Geo Spa is perhaps the most innovative facility on the property, allowing guests to indulge in a range of treatments, such as the Marine Flora Immersion ritual, which is said to revitalise the lymphatic and immune systems. After concluding a relaxing spa session, one can enjoy tropical cocktails and fusion snacks by the Rhu Bar, a Middle Eastern-inspired lounge and home to the best sunset-viewing spot at the Four Seasons.
Dreaming about a luxury stay surrounded by islands while in a rainforest? Ambong-Ambong Rainforest Retreat is your place to be. Its exotic villas are based around a sustainable and tropical-chic theme, complete with private pools and endless sunrise and sunset views.
You can spend a relaxing session at its spa, which provides healing based on the seven chakras by using “traditions of the Malaysian indigenous tribes,” or indulge in the heritage-filled cooking and dining experiences by savouring delectable Malay dishes.
Taking things to another level is their UNESCO Geopark Experiences, wherein you can go on an informative and interesting tour through the mangrove forests.
Known as Permata Kedah by locals, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands and can be reached in many ways from Singapore. The fastest option to reach the tranquil island is by direct flight, which takes around 1.5 hours. However, other methods such as train, bus or ferry can also take you there.
Batu-Batu Resort – located on Tengah Island – is well known for blending nature conservation with luxury.
Described as “an unspoilt island retreat with an ecological ethos and conviction that tourism can support biodiversity and local communities,” Batu-Batu Resort has 20 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom villas that are designed to showcase traditional Malaysian architecture. These luxurious abodes come with balconies overlooking the tranquil sea or the jungles and are fitted with glass doors so you’ll enjoy infinite views of nature from the comfort of your plush, cosy bed. If you’re bringing children, some rooms come with little enclosures that house bunk beds too.
Apart from relaxing in the lap of nature, you can partake in their conservation activities and contribute to the environment as well. The main restaurant offers a 270-degree view of the natural surroundings and scrumptious seafood options, which are all made fresh with locally sourced ingredients. Their fresh grilled snapper in banana leaf is especially popular and is prepared using authentic Malaysian-style chilli paste. A bakery is also on hand to provide an array of desserts for those with an insatiable sweet tooth.
Johor can be reached by road from Singapore in under two hours if traffic conditions are favourable, so expect to get there in no time at all.
Besides offering mesmerising views of the sea and rainforests to guests staying in its villas, Gaya Island Resort has a special property called the Spa Village. Here, the ethos is “It’s not just a place, it’s a philosophy,” so expect healing therapies that involve authentic local ingredients. Its unique scrubs and practices bring ancient traditions alive while establishing a balance between the body and soul.
Other than the spa, there is an array of experiences to choose from; set out on an intriguing marine expedition or go on nature trails amid the exquisite flora and fauna through mangroves, or spot the red giant flying squirrels. You can also visit their Marine Centre to know more about endangered marine life, turtle rescue, and coral reef restoration.
After an informative day out, you can choose to dine at either Fisherman’s Cove for seafood-themed dishes, or Omakase, a two-storey Japanese restaurant that’s perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu. Arrange a special private dinner for your special someone by the sea if you’re celebrating a special occasion too.
To reach this haven located at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Kota Kinabalu, you can take a direct flight that’s approximately two hours and 35 minutes.
Image: Courtesy Japamala Resort by Samadhi, Tioman Island
Based on rustic-luxe design philosophy, their villas — or ‘Sarangs’, as called by them — speak of the wilderness, amidst which they are built. As they have been cautious enough to not disrupt the ecological balance by preserving the surrounding trees or rocks, each villa is uniquely different.
Their various ‘chalets’ and ‘Sarangs’ include Treetop Chalets, Seacliff Chalets, Beach Sarang, Luxe Treetop Sarang, Jungle Luxe Sarang, Hillside Sarang, Seaview Sarang and Penghulu’s House, each with its own charm and view.
If you wish to explore the marine wilderness, you can try scuba diving, especially at night for a thrilling adventure. Boat excursions and jungle trekking options are also available. Want to soak in the romance while you’re here? Head to the romantic sunset viewpoint with your special someone for some alone time.
The resort arranges personal transfers between Mersing Jetty, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. It takes around two hours from Mersing Jetty via a public ferry and nearly four hours by flight from Kuala Lumpur. However, buses take longer — around eight to nine hours.
Located within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park is this breathtaking island resort, wherein you can get one of the best marine life experiences. The island gets its name ‘Rawa’ from the informal Malay word for white dove.
You can stay in the spacious rooms categorised as Hillside Deluxe, Beachview/Beachfront Chalet, Waterfront Bungalow and Frangipani Villa, depending on your choice of aesthetics. Each has a gorgeous view of lush jungles, turquoise waters, or silver sand.
Their spa is also not just about a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating plunge. Here, infinite views of the South China Sea and a living tree inside the spa area bring the outdoors within, immersing you in a wave of tranquillity.
To explore the local marine life, choose from one of their many diving options. A scuba diving course is also on hand should you wish to pick up the sport, and you can do so at their PADI Five-Star Scuba Diving Instructor Development Center.
When it comes time to eat and drink, enjoy a lavish spread from the various international and local cuisines and fresh tropical fruit that are offered at their buffet restaurant.
Set around 5km from the west coast of Malaysia on a private island is the Pangkor Laut Resort, along the Malacca Straits.
The stunning property has seven villa and suite categories to choose from — Garden Villa, Hill Villa, Beach Villa, Sea Villa, Spa Villa, Suria and Purnama Suite and Pavarotti Suite.
Named after the famous tenor Luciano Pavarotti, the latter was named after it was rumoured that the artist fell in love with Pangkor Laut. This two-bedroom suite has everything you’ll need for a comfortable and luxurious vacation, and besides majestic rooms and views of the sea and rainforests, also promises a huge open-air bathing space.
With seven different dining options, this island resort takes the gastronomic experience to another level. One of its restaurants, Uncle Lim’s Kitchen, is recommended for Nyonya and Hock Chew Chinese-style home cooking. It is named after the chef who has been associated with the resort since the day it was established. Don’t miss dining at their Royal Bay Beach Club on the terrace either, which offers infinity pool views and exotic Asian dishes to feast upon.
Pangkor Laut can be reached by Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and the resort provides car transfers to their office on Marina Island, Pangkor and a speedboat ride from there to the resort. From Singapore, fly either via Firefly or Malindo Air to the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, and then hop on a 90-minute private car or taxi transfer to Pangkor Laut Resort’s office at Marina Island Pangkor, followed by a speedboat transfer to Pangkor Laut Resort.
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Gem Island Resort & Spa, Terengganu
Image: Courtesy Gem Island Resort, Terengganu
Whether you are travelling solo, with your family, a special someone, or a group of friends, you can customise your package with the various offers provided by this beautiful island resort. For those who are fond of a perfectly organised trip, the Uniquely Tailored Experience option will help you tailor your stay sightseeing options, and meals according to your preference.
Besides Premiere Villas and Water Villas, Gem Island Resort & Spa’s two-storey Hideaway Suites and Hideaway Villas can prove to be one of the cosiest options, especially since they’re swathed by local fauna.
Their restaurant, which sits along the coastline, offers delectable Asian and Western cuisines and some of the finest wines.
Located at the Pulau Gemia islands in the town of Marang, the resort can be reached from Marang Jetty, which is accessible from Singapore by bus via a 10-hour drive. If you opt for a flight, it takes around 30 minutes from the Kuala Terengganu Airport.
Image: Courtesy Rebak Island Resort & Marina, Langkawi
Nestled amid rich greens on a private island is this resort by Vivanta, where each of its suites exudes rich Malaysian culture and architecture with timber finishing and spacious balconies overlooking the sea or the forests.
Here, the island resort offers various activities and entertainment options, including archery classes, cooking classes, darts, karaoke, water sports, kids’ club, themed dinners and temporary art galleries, making it a beautiful place to tickle the artist or the adventure seeker in you? Additionally, while you unwind, your little ones are taken care of as they provide babysitting services on request.
The island resort in Malaysia also features exotic restaurants and bars serving delicious Asian and continental dishes, with the Strait’s Grill providing some freshly caught seafood for discerning gourmands. With three bars on the site, you can decide whether to try their selected wines or refreshing cocktails.
To get to Langkawi Airport from Singapore, take a direct flight via AirAsia or Scoot. Langkawi Airport is around 8km from the Cenang Port Jetty, which is nearly seven minutes by boat from the resort.
This story first appeared here.
(Main and featured image credit: Nirian/Getty Images)
And in today’s post, I’m going to share all about Pulau Tioman as state below:
How To Go To Pulau Tioman
From Mersing jetty, Bluewater Express Tioman & CataFerry offers ferry services to
Kg. Salang
Kg. Genting
Kg. Tekek
Kg. Juara
kg. Mukut
Kg. Paya
in Pulau Tioman. Visitors can seek local boat transfer if they plan to go to other villages.
Public bus and private car services can bring you to Mersing Jetty directly from Singapore. Taking the bus is cheaper and there are only 2 to 3 bus operators offer this route services.
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10 Best Things To Do In Pulau Tioman
Immerse yourself in this tropical wonderland once you step onto Pulau Tioman. Join any of the scuba diving courses around to explore the ocean.
You can also get a diving license after joining the training courses. Go snorkelling near the shore or a deeper water area. Alternatively, participate in the fishing trips available.
Visit Turtle Hatchery in Juara Village to gain insights into our environment. Go jungle trekking and head off to the Asah Waterfall to get closer to nature.
If possible, bring a telescope for stargazing at night. Once you feel tired, just relax and watch the sunset at any of the beaches.
Beaches in Pulau Tioman are elegant and peaceful. The soothing atmosphere in Paya Beach Tioman is ideal for complete relaxation. You may take pleasure in their spas for massages and treatments to refresh your minds.
Food enthusiasts should go to Salang Beach Tioman as restaurants around offer exquisite taste of local and international cuisines as well as wonderful sea views.
Juara Beach Tioman is a peaceful and quiet beach where exhilarating water sports can be enjoyed to the fullest. For nature lovers, spend the time to visit the turtle sanctuary around.
As one of the must-go beaches in Pulau Tioman, Monkey Beach Tioman offers various activities and delicious food where you can find lots of tourists around.
The tropical rainforest nearby adds magical charm to Melina Beach Tioman. It welcomes everyone to explore the diversity of wildlife and marine life here.
Best Restaurants On Pulau Tioman
Restaurants in Pulau Tioman are proud of serving diversity of delightful cuisine. Raise your expectations at the Hijau Restaurant that presents Indian food in a unique way.
If you wish to drink beers, enjoy your meals at Santai Bistro where Malay and western cuisines are served. The island boasts an ABCD Restaurant offering barbecued meals including seafood BBQ.
At Riverside Café, they serve extremely cheap Thai and Malay food that suits budget travellers. Also, dine in Delima Restaurant for finger-licking food with outstanding services.
3 Best Diving Courses In Tioman For Scuba Diving Lovers
1. Tioman Dive Center
Either you’re first-timers or experienced divers, Tioman Dive Center caters to your need by offering courses ranging from beginners to professional one. Guided by PADI certified instructors, safety of students is always their main priority.
The center is situated in Salang village of the island. They charge their diving packages according to a number of dives. Prices increase with increasing number of dives.
Tioman Dive Buddy is located a great distance from Genting Jetty. Nevertheless, its serene environment attracts those who prefer a quiet yet private place.
With their professional instructors, they pride themselves in offering the safest diving courses and some leisure dives. Besides diving courses, the dive centre provides a comprehensive service. They arrange accommodations, meals and even transport for their customers.
There are two diving schools under the management of B&J Diving Centre. One is them is Salang Bay School located in Salang Village and near to the main diving spots.
For those who prefer quiet places, head off to southern part of Tioman Island for another dive centre. Both of the diving schools offer all available PADI courses and they provide the best diving equipment.
Best Chalets In Pulau Tioman For A Relaxing Vacation
1. Beach Shack Chalet
Beach Shack Chalet is easily accessible and near to Turtle Sanctuary located in Juara Village. Budget travellers can consider here as they offer simple yet elegant chalet at extremely low room rates.
Offering taxi services and airport transfer, the staff aim at making guests feel themselves at home. They also provide a laundry service with additional charges.
Enjoy your meals at the restaurant or coffee shop around the chalet. Guests can also enjoy BBQ dinner as comprehensive BBQ facilities are provided.
2. Juara Mutiara Resort Chalet
Strategically located right in the center of Juara Village, Juara Mutiara Resort Chalet requires only 20 minutes to arrive at the airport.
Featuring comfortable rooms ranging from twin rooms to quad rooms, all of them come with modern facilities and amenities. Cleaning services such as daily housekeeping and dry cleaning are offered here.
Besides participating in water sports, guests can also enjoy playing dart board and singing karaoke during their stay. Or, watch the latest movie at their TV area (shared lounge) with your dear ones.
3. Swiss Cottage Chalet Tioman
This is the leading cottage chalet in Pulau Tioman located near Tekek Village. The charm of Swiss Cottage Chalet is that they offer beachfront accommodations with fabulous sea views and this building blends perfectly into the nature of Tioman Island.
They offer different low-cost chalets that include terrace rooms, beachfront chalets, and beachfront bungalows. All these accommodations have beautiful furnishings to ensure a pleasant stay.
4. Bayu Tioman Beach
Nestled privately in Genting Village, Bayu Tioman Beach requires a 10-minute walk from jetty and you can take in the picturesque surrounding along the journey. All the chalets are made from timber so that it merges with nature.
The resort features a private beach where guests can enjoy sunbathing, fishing and water sports without disturbing by other visitors. After all day long activities, enjoy delicious meals at their restaurant that serves Malay, Chinese and Western cuisines.
5. Bamboo Hill Tioman
All the Bamboo Hill Tioman is built in traditional Malay style by using varnished wood. The chalets offer a private veranda to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Inside, it comes with private bathroom, tea making facilities and attached mosquito net.
Featuring a library, guests can prefer reading books when the weather is bad for water sports. When you’re tired of reading and hungry, simply head off to their ABC’s and Nazri’s restaurant for delightful meals in a cosy ambiance.
Tioman Island Resort
Tioman Island boasts many elegant resorts that provide utmost comfort in nature. The most recommended resort with the most positive feedback is Berjaya Tioman Resort that offers outstanding customer services.
Located at the hilltop, Island Reef Resort offers wonderful views over the sea and the bay. For budget travelers, you can consider staying in Tioman Paya Resort, Juara Beach Resort, and Tioman Dive Resort.
For a cosy and warm environment, opt for Sun Beach Resort that offers rooms at reasonable prices. Melina Beach Resort and Japamala Resort offer private beach that suitable for those who seek for privacy and tranquillity.
Pulau Tioman is influenced by monsoon season that causes high tides. The season falls from October to February so avoid visiting Pulau Tioman these few months.
Pulau Tioman welcomes visitors from March to September and the best weather falls in June and July.
2 Routes For Ferry To Pulau Tioman
Option 1: Mersing To Pulau Tioman
Mersing offers cheap ferry ride to Pulau Tioman with the fare ranges from as low as RM50.
CataFerry and Bluewater Express Ferry offer the most reliable ferry to Tioman services.
The trip takes about 1.5 hours to 2 hours. There are at least three round trips per day but the schedules are all dependent on the tidal conditions.
Are you looking for a break away from all the monotony of everyday life?
Perhaps you want to have a little adventure in the process?
It’s time to grab your hiking boots and head straight to Johor.
Johor region, which is located on the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, is home to one of the most treacherous mountains in the whole of Malaysia and is in close proximity to Singapore.
It is a mountainous region and as such has a series of mountains which are different in every aspect except that they are all found in Johor.
In this article, you will discover the 7 most captivating mountains or ‘Gunung’ as they are called in the local Malaysian language.
We will also give you directions on how to get to each one of them.
Captivating Hills in Johor
1. Gunung Pulai, Johor
When driving to Gunung Pulai you cannot fail to notice the most obvious landmark that tells you have arrived. It is the teacup landmark which bears the name Anggun Café and the road that leads to the starting trailhead of Gunung Pulai.
The 654m high mountain covers about 80 square kilometers of forest reserve and it is the closest area between Johor Bahru and Singapore.
Gunung Pulai also is known as Mount Pulai is one the most popular hiking spots in Johor. The flora and fauna found in Mount Pulai attract a lot of hikers in this part of the world.
Many Singaporeans and other visitors are attracted to Gunung Pulai because they believe that there is a historic connection between Mt Pulai and Singapore. The forest reserve is a water catchment area that feeds the Johor River which in turn supplies water to many Singaporeans.
Gunung Pulai is also an exciting feature to many Singaporeans because it stands out in terms of coverage and height as compared to Singapore’s highest hill which stands at 164m above sea level.
The diversity in wildlife here is also appealing to most hikers. There is also a wide array of tantalizing local food which is purely irresistible to most visitors.
Contacts: +60 14-988 1988
How To Get To Gunung Pulai, Johor
After clearing with customs head directly to NS Highway and look out for exit 252, that is Kulaijaya /Kota Tinggi. After clearing Kulaiijaya toll look out for Hutan Liput Gunung Pulai sign on your right. Then drive along Jalan Sawahto JIn TM Gn Pulai, you will see lots of sand quarries and oil plantation along the way. After 11 km about 10 minutes of driving, you will come to the entrance of Kg Sri Gunung Pulai on your left.
2. Gunung Panti in Kota Tinggi, Johor
Gunung Panti is a Malay word which means Mount Panti. It is a treacherous but beautiful mountain which can be seen from as far as Kota Tinggi Waterfalls.
Its imposing outlines stand out as it challenges any adventure seeker to try it out.
Travelling along the road, one immediately notices that its left edge has an almost vertical face that stares menacingly at every passerby or motorist as if giving out an open challenge.
It is 485 meters high and its peak appears as if it is capped with a huge bolder which gives it an unmistakable identity. This is the perfect set up for any hiker who wishes to take up the daunting task of reaching its peak and discover what is in store.
Once at the peak, the mountain offers you a full circle view of the surrounding area not to mention beautiful scenery that awaits you at the top in form of flora and fauna. It will take any hiker about 2.5hrs to ascend and 2hrs to descend and climbing this mountain is not very taxing. Make sure you are dressed for the occasion as sometimes it can really get wet and you don’t want to be caught in the mess.
How To Get To Gunung Panti In Kota Tinggi
To reach its foothills, drive from Kota Tinggi town towards Air Terjun passing Kampong Batu Ampat, Air Terjun or Kota Rainforest Resort is about 8km from Kampong Batu Ampat. The road you should look out for should be on your right and about 50 meters before reaching Kota Rainforest Resort. Take the dirt road and you will find yourself at the foot of Mount Panti in no time.
3. Gunung Lambak in Kluang, Johor
Gunung Lambak is a twin peaked mountain with a higher peak reaching about 510 meters. Lambak, which is translated as Flea Mountain, is a little bit steeper than Gunung Panti and needs a lot of effort to hike.
The trail that leads to Lamback Mountain is ever rising and rough. Most parts of the trail have ropes which have been set up to help in the climbing.
On the outskirts of Kluang town, there is the Gunung Lambak Eco Resort where the trail starts. The steep trail is well known by hikers who have climbed the mountain before.
Photo credits: travelledpaths.com
It can offer a very good challenge to any hiker who wishes to conquer the Gunung Lambak. It takes about 2-3 hours to scale the mountain and back. Climbing the mountain is free as there are no permits or admission charges.
As a visitor, you can choose where to stay depending on your budget. You can choose the Eco Resort or Rail Hotel. The Eco Resort is a bit expensive because it has the necessary resources like camping facilities, swimming pool, kids playing ground and others. Food is also cheaper at the Green Home Wealthy Vegetarian Cafe and the Kluang coffee rail which has very odd operating hours.
How To Get To Gunung Lambak In Kluang
If you want to reach Gunung Lambak in Kluang and you are using the North-South Expressway, you should take the Air Hitam exit (interchange 244) and then take Highway 50 to Kluang town. When you are near Kluang you will see signposts for Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest which is on the southeast edge of the town.
4. Gunung Belumut, Johor
Gunung Belumut is about 1010 meters high and is located about 18km east of Kluang. This mountain is higher and steeper as compared to Lambak and Panti Mountains and takes an individual the whole day to trek up and down.
For a small group, it will take about 2days and one night to make the entire trek. There is a resort at the base of the mountain which offers some semblance of security to verify the trekker’s identities and permission.
There are charges for mountain climbing and using of the chalet for an overnight stay.
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Photo credits: meetup.com
The trekking route has three campsites along the way to the summit. The first campsite is located just a small distance from the base of the mountain. The second one is found on your way to the summit while the last one is found is just about 30 meters further up the second one.
The best campsite is the one at the base of the mountain with a flowing stream nearby. Both sides of the bank can be used as campsites with a capacity of about 20 people. The second campsite, a 30-minute walk from the summit, is relatively small with a holding capacity of about 12.
It is sheltered by trees and has an inadequate water supply. The last campsite is further up the mountain and much bigger with space for about 20 people. It is exposed and may pose lighting strikes danger. A sleeping bag must be carried as it is quite cold up here. It is also good to have some mosquito coil, salt and vinegar just in case of anything.
How To Get To Gunung Belumut, Johor
Take a bus from Singapore to Larkin terminal in Johor Bahru where you take another express bus to Kluang. The journey will last slightly over one and a half hours at an estimated cost of about RM 6.40 per person. Take a Taxi from Kluang Bus Interchange to Grunung Belumut Park at a cost of RM 30 for a one-way ticket or RM 60 for a two-way ticket. It may take 30 minutes to reach Belumut Park. Alternatively, you can arrange with the resort manager to bring you from either the train station or the bus station to the resort.
5. Gunung Arong in Mersing, Johor
Gunung Arong Recreational Forest is a forest reserve located in the Mersing District in Johor.
A stream runs through the entire length and breadth of the forest.
The stream offers maximum enjoyment to many hikers and adventure seekers, whose cooling and refreshing effects are an unforgettable experience.
Photo credits: gaiaadventurers.com
The Gunung Arong peak rewards hikers and trekkers alike with a panoramic view of the South China Sea and its neighbouring islands. In good weather, you can also be able to see the magnificent splendor of Pulau Tioman unfolding before your eyes. To reach the peak, which is about 255 meters high, one has to trek for about 2 hours.
After the trek, one can always relax at the Tanjung Resang Beach. This is a popular destination for many hikers. Its rough waves and wind creates the perfect situation to be in harmony with the wild nature.
How To Get To Gunung Arong In Mersing
Little is known if there is any public transportation to the area. Getting here is best done by personal vehicle or by private taxi. The area is in between Mersing and Endau. You will see a single small shop selling snacks serving as a registration counter.
6. Gunung Ledang, Johor
This is perhaps one of the most trekked mountains in Peninsular Malaysia. Gunung Ledang, which is also commonly known as Mount Ophir, can be accessed via two routes.
The Sagil Path is the most commonly used path and is much longer than the Asahan route. The Asahan route is less known because it is less accessible as compared Sagil. A few trekkers have used the route up the Ophir Mountain.
Photo credits: iwannatravel.com.sg
The start of the trek from Asahan is easily accessible by vehicles where you will see a signboard notice that warns trekkers to only use the Asahan route for both the descend and the ascend.
Transport arrangements should therefore be made to pick you up after descending from the mountain. The Asahan trail is also relatively cleaner than the Sagil one and there is no entrance charge or climbing permit. This path is wilder than Sagil and leads you to a campsite located about 1.5 hours away from the summit.
The campsite is large enough and can hold up to 10 tents in different locations. There is also a stream nearby which brings a lot of relief to any trekker.
How To Get To Gunung Ledang, Johor
Take a bus 170 from Singapore to Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. From there, take an Express bus from Larkin to Segamat at a cost of about RM 10 per person and takes about 3hours 15 minutes. From the Segamat Interchange to Asahan, you can take a Taxi at about RM 80 per cab. It takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach Asahan from here.
7. Gunung Muntahak, Johor
Gunung Muntahak is a 634m hill that is the main water source for the Kota Tinggi Waterfall. It is a largely undisturbed rainforest with little or no human intrusion.
The hill is hidden by other hills and it is hard to see from the main road leading to Kota Tinggi Waterfall.
Photo credits: timeoff2outdoors.com
It has the perfect condition for the growth of beautiful palm which is widespread in this rainforest. The trail to the summit is gentle and narrow, and has many obstructions as one makes his way towards the summit.
The ascent becomes more steeper and tiring as one gets close to the summit which does not offer any rewarding view as the area has thick and tall vegetation that obstruct any meaningful view.
How To Get To Gunung Muntahak, Johor
Take SBS bus 170 from Singapore to Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru. Then take G.P. Express bus at Platform 33 from Johor Bahru Bus Interchange to Kota Tinggi Bus Interchange at a cost of RM 3.50 per person. At Kota Tinggi take a Causeway Link Bus no.66 to Gunung Muntahak at a cost of about RM 2.00. The ride will last about 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a Taxi from Kota Tinggi Interchange to Wet World resort entrance (The trek starting point) at a cost of RM 10-12.
