While Malaysia is known for its beaches, its hill stations are some of the most beautiful locations of the country. From the adventure parks of Genting Highlands to the verdant locales of Kelabit Highlands, and from the endless hiking trails of Bukit Tinggi to the birdwatching opportunities at Fraser Hill, hill stations in Malaysia offer travellers unforgettable adventures. Join us on a voyage across some of Malaysia’s finest hill stations as we explore their pleasant climates and natural attractions.
Best hill stations in Malaysia
Genting Highlands
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Genting Highlands offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it one of the most popular hill stations in Malaysia. Located on Mount Ulu Kali’s summit at an elevation of 1800 metres, it is home to Resorts World Genting, a popular integrated resort featuring casinos and theme parks.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Ride the Genting SkyWay cable system, and visit Sky Casino Restaurants to try: Burger & Lobster Genting, Tavern in the Sky, and Spice Garden Hotels to stay: Resorts World Genting, Genting SkyWorlds Hotel, and Grand Ion Delemen Hotel
How to reach
By air: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 42 km away By train: Batang Kali KTM Station is approximately 78 km away
Cameron Highlands
Image credit: Ravin Rau/Unsplash
Known for its lush rolling hills and valleys, Cameron Highlands is one of the top hill stations in Malaysia. Home to picturesque walking trails, butterfly farms, verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming strawberry farms, it is one of the most visited hill stations in Malaysia by locals and tourists alike.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: February to July Things to do: Hike across Mossy Forest, visit Lavender Garden, and shop at the local markets Restaurants to try: Scott’s Cafe, Singh Chapati, and Sri Brinchang Hotels to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort, Strawberry Park Resort, and Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
How to reach
By air: Ipoh Airport is approximately 33 km away By train: Tapah Road Railway Station is approximately 68 km away
Penang Hill
Image credit: Jakub Specjalski/Shutterstock
Located in the heart of Penang Island, Penang Hill is a popular hill resort. Also known as Bukit Bendera, it is considered the oldest colonial hill station in Southeast Asia. Several lookout points across its multiple peaks offer breathtaking views of lush forests, the azure blue sea, sandy beaches, and magnificent sunsets.
Location: Air Itam suburb Best time to visit: December to February Things to do: Visit Penang Botanic Gardens and Penang Butterfly Farm, ride the iconic Penang Hill funicular, and spend a day at the Wonder Food Museum Restaurants to try: David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace, Hillview Cafe, and Marrybrown Hotels to stay: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, DeView Hotel, and Berjaya Penang Hotel
How to reach
By air: Penang International Airport is approximately 16 km away By train: Butterworth Railway Station is approximately 26 km away
Bukit Tinggi
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Home to the popular Colmar Tropicale, a beautiful French-themed village resort and theme park, Bukit Tinggi is a quaint hill station in Pahang. One of the best hill stations in Malaysia, it is also home to the Berjaya Hills Resort, a major attraction for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, which is less than 60 km away. Located on the scenic Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway connecting it to Genting Highlands, Bukit Tinggi is a popular stopover for locals and tourists.
Location: Bentong, Pahang Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple, explore the Japanese Tea House, and spend a day at the Rabbit Farm. Restaurants to try: La Flamme, La Blason, and Fantasy Valley Restaurant Hotels to stay: Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills Resort, and The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resort
How to reach
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By air: Minangkabau Airport is approximately 54 km away By train: Batang Kali Railway Station is approximately 75 km away
Fraser Hill
Image credit: Neoh Chee Kong/Shutterstock
Fraser Hill, known as Bukit Fraser in Malay, is popular for its verdant forests, walking trails, and diverse birdlife. Still relatively unexplored, it offers plenty of hiking opportunities that lead to waterfalls, lakes, dams, and rolling meadows. The forested areas are home to Malay tigers, harbour panthers, and sun bears.
Location: Pahang Best time to visit: April to September Things to do: Visit the Jeriau Waterfall, go for a walk on the Pine Tree Trail or the Bishop Trail, and go on a paddle boat ride across Allan’s Water Lake Restaurants to try: Aida Daniya Restaurant & English Teahouse, Ye Olde Smokehouse, and Restoran Ratha Raub Hotels to stay: The Pines @ Fraser Hills, Puncak Inn, and Fraser’s Silverpark Resort
How to reach
By air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 155 km away By train: Kuala Kubu Bharu Railway Station is approximately 41 km away
Bukit Larut
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A quaint little hill station in Malaysia, Bukit Larut, formerly known as Maxwell Hill, is famous for its rolling hills and meadows adorned with a variety of flowers, including petunias, roses, tulips, marigolds, dahlias, daisies, and pansies. Located on the Bintang Mountain Range, Bukit Larut is one of the most biodiverse regions in Malaysia, hosting more than 20% of the country’s plant species.
Location: Perak Best time to visit: March to October Things to do: Enjoy the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, spend an evening at Taiping Lake Gardens, and enjoy a short hike at Kaki Bukit Larut Restaurants to try: Taiping Seven Village Noodle House, Carson Grill, and The Mask Cafe Hotels to stay: Novotel Taiping Perak, Flemington Hotel, and Hotel Casuarina
How to reach
By air: Taiping (Tekah) Airport is approximately 8 km away By train: Taiping Railway Station is approximately 9 km away
One of the most unexplored hill stations of Malaysia, Kelabit Highlands boasts magnificent mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages. With its pleasant weather and diverse flora, it offers options through forests and rice fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Location: Sarawak Best time to visit: March to September Things to do: Attend the annual three-day Bario Food Festival in July, visit the natural salt springs of Pa Umor, trek through jungles and villages Restaurants to try: Boon Kee Restaurant, Cloude Town Cafe, and Chan’s Restaurant Hotels to stay: The Ngimat Ayu House and Bulan and Daud Homestay
How to reach
By air: Marudi Airport is approximately 6 km away By train: Bandar Tasik Selatan Railway Station is approximately 2,949 km away
-What is the best time to visit Malaysia’s hill stations? It is best to avoid the monsoon seasons when visiting Malaysia’s hill stations. Visit the east coast from March to October, and the south coast from November to March.
-What are the things to do at Malaysian hill stations? You can enjoy trekking, adventure activities, spa therapies, birdwatching, and more at Malaysia’s hill stations.
-Are there any unique attractions in Cameron Highlands? The Time Tunnel Museum is one of the most unique attractions in Cameron Highlands. This museum showcases historical memorabilia and artefacts of the country.
-Can I experience a cool climate at Malaysia’s hill stations? Yes, Malaysia’s hill stations experience cool and pleasant weather almost all through the year.
-Is Genting Highlands suitable for family vacations? Yes, Genting Highlands is a popular destination for family vacations.
-Are there hiking trails in Malaysian hill stations? Most hill stations in Malaysia are home to verdant hiking trails suitable for people of all age groups.
-Are there cultural experiences in the hill stations of Malaysia? From temples to food festivals, museums to historical sites, hill stations in Malaysia are home to several cultural experiences.
Calling out ALL Shopaholics who just couldn’t resist that particular favorite item beckoning you to purchase it.
Well, other than so many things to do in Johor Bahru, resist no more as now you have more reason and choice to go on a shopping spree in Johor Bahru!
Internationally known as Johor Bahru (JB), is the capital state of Johor, Malaysia, which can be accessed directly via Johor-Singapore Causeway.
Known as a shopper’s haven, it is home to collections of unique and comprehensive shopping malls.
These market-leading malls are remarkably huge and they managed to cater to a wide range of needs for shopping lovers.
Here is a list of 12 shopping malls situated around Legoland Malaysia. Go dish out your credit cards and indulge yourself!
12 Shopping Mall In Johor Bahru (JB) Near Legoland Malaysia
Except for finding a restaurant near Legoland Malaysia, or wondering what is the best things to do near Legoland Malaysia, you can always go shopping near Legoland Malaysia. That actually can save your day. While your kids are madly in love with Legoland Water & Theme Park, you can enjoy shopping!
Here is JB shopping mall list near Legoland Malaysia:
1. Johor Premium Outlets
As you can see, this perfect outlet is just 27.7km away from Legoland Malaysia (approximately 15 minutes by car). You can find 130 outlet stores there, including such brands, as:
Address: Jalan Premium Outlets, Indahpura, 81000 Kulaijaya, Johor Darul Takzim Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00am – 10:00pm Contact: +607-661 8888
There are always plenty of sales, center activities and in-store promotions in Johor Premium Outlet. Plus the possibility to become a VIP member or book a group tour, where you will receive free VIP Coupon Books upon arrival (if there is a group of 15 people and more).
If you are planning to stay more then one day there, you can stay one of these hotels or resort near JPO:
KSL Shopping Mall is an integrated shopping mall with the hotel in Johor Bahru with 500 retail outlets, 868 hotel rooms, 602 condominium and 2800 car parks.
eat good food (KFC, Subway, Old Town White Coffee are there);
stay in perfectly accommodated rooms;
actually shopping
Just take a bus from City Square and you be there in about 20 mins. The place is best famous for big variety of delicious food, a lot of famous brands and the fact, that it is a good place for Singaporean to buy the same items that are in Singapore, but cheaper.
Address: 33, Jalan Seladang | Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00am – 10:00pm Contact: +607-288 2888
3. AEON Mall Bukit Indah
AEON Bukit Indah Shopping Centre is a shopping mall in the fast-expanding township of Bukit Indah in Johor, Malaysia. It was opened in December 2008.
AEON supermarket and the department store has a very good selection;
parking is very cheap and affordable;
many restaurants;
an easy ~10km drive after crossing the Malaysian custom at the 2nd link;
the mall has 188 shops over three levels and an area of 950,000 sq ft.;
very clean area and good maintained toilets;
moreover, is the closest shopping place to Legoland Malaysia.
Address: Grand Mezzanine, 8, Jalan Indah 15/2, Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10.00am – 10.00pm Friday to Saturday: 10.00am – 10.30pm Contact: 1-300-80-AEON(2366)
4. AEON Mall Bandar Dato’ Onn
Run in the concept of “Maximum value”, Aeon Mall Bandar Dato’ Onn is a large-scale new shopping mall in Johor Bahru with 3 retail floors and 2 floors of car park.
It sets over 20.93 acres and is operated by Aeon Co (M) Bhd (Malaysia’s largest department store/supermarket). There is a network of links that connect directly to the township, making it highly accessible to customers.
Elegantly designed with wide selections of retailers, the mall has turned Bandar Dato’ Onn into a modern and vivid township in Johor. Lots of products such as daily necessities, fashion products, food and drinks are sold at affordable prices to sustain the lives of residents here.
The mall emphasizes on the concept of Go Green to complement the fast and busy lifestyles in town. It tries it best to create a nature area in town to provide tranquillity and relaxation.
As green areas in town are expanding, the pollution in town will be reduced. Therefore, quality of lives of residents will be increased gradually.
Why is Aeon Mall Bandar Dato’ Onn worth visiting?
Provides nature-like relaxation
Highly connected to other township
Great deals are offered
Bandar Dato’ Onn is considered to be a jewel of Malaysia and it will spread over 1,514 acres of freehold land. Bandar is located only a few kilometers from the Johor city center.
This development has been thoroughly planned as a self-contained city where a total population in excess of 90,000 can be comfortably accommodated and a place where they can call home. Among its notable features include:
Its location that is highly accessible because it has a network of interchanges which provide direct and continuous access to the township.
About 19 neighborhoods which will be extensively planned for in order to provide the best aspects of communal living.
A 118-acre area that will be reserved for a commercial center which will act as a hub spot to the local community.
Emphasis is also placed on the concept of green areas and recreational parks. These are areas that will complement the busy city kind of life with the tranquility provided by nature as a form of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Apart from this, the green areas and parks will transform Bandar Dato Onn into one of the most beautiful and attractive modern township to be found in southern Malaysia and a place where one can call home.
Address: 3, Jalan Dato Onn 3, Bandar Dato Onn, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia Contact: +607-350 8432
5. AEON Mall Tebrau City
When you see a long beige building with a big AEON sign, you’re at the right place. AEON Tebrau City can be accessed from JB Sentral. It’s a great place to fill your weekend and you’ll find yourself fully immersed in the relaxing ambience here.
The ground floor features AEON grocery store which is the consumers’ favourite grocery store in JB. Besides, wide array of retail selections are offered such as G2000, Esprit, Giordano, to name a few. Tired of shopping?
Enjoy a movie at TGV Cinema with their delightful popcorns. You’ll totally be indulged in the movie as the seats are too comfortable.
Photo credits: loveanqila.blogspot.my
The mall has what you’re craving. Sushi, western cuisines, local cuisines, Korean food and many more can be savoured under the roof. You’ll never go hungry and thirsty while shopping here. Bookworms tend to visit Harris’ more often than anyone else.
Why is Aeon Tebrau City worth visiting?
Great deals during festival occasions.
AEON supermarket offers fine selection of vegetables and fruits.
Many restaurants that serve delicious food.
Address: Aeon Tebrau City Shopping Centre, 1, Jalan Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Malaysia Contact: +607 – 352 2220 Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10.00am – 10.00pm Friday to Saturday: 10.00am – 11.00pm
6. City Square Johor
Near to the causeway link, City Square Johor in town is a popular haunt for people from northern Singapore. It’s accessed directly to JB Sentral via a pedestrian bridge. With a total of 150 stores and brands outlets and over 50 food outlets, it guarantees a satisfying shopping experience for shopping goers.
Good news for Singaporeans is that the prices of goodies here are far cheaper than Singapore. Even the Cathay cinema here offers cheap tickets. Every month, different stores come with many exclusive promotions to give thanks to their customers. Cheap, comfortable and clean has made this mall worth shopping.
Enjoy exceptional services such as car wash, restorative service, money changer, photo processing and ATM in City Square Johor. Shops for beauty and wellness such as hair salon, health care, beauty center and pharmacy are available. There is also karaoke and games arcade for entertainment.
Why is JB City Square shopping mall worth visiting?
Located in the heart of Johor, easy access to nearby tourist destination
Things are cheap and affordable
Three-floors basement car park
Connected to Johor CIQ complex and just few minutes walk from Johor Custom
Address: Johdaya Karya Sdn Bhd, Lot J3-12A, Level 3, Johor Bahru City Square Shopping Mall, 106 – 108 Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Contact: +607 – 226 3668 Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00am – 10:00pm
7. Plaza Angsana
The weekend is going to be huge for families! Strategically located along Jalan Tampoi, Plaza Angsana requires only 15 minutes’ drive from Johor Bahru City Centre. It features 5 levels with over 238 outlets to serve a large customer base.
Whether you’re looking for leisure, gourmet center, shopping or entertainment, Plaza Angsana has all of it. For shopping, the mall offers international brands as well as local brands. Latest closet, jewellery and bags can be found all over the malls.
Wide array of food and beverage are well-served here. It comes with two food courts serving dishes ranging from local cuisines to international cuisines.
Apart from that, the mall provides wheelchairs for disabled and amusement center for children. Bowling and karaoke can also be enjoyed here. Gift wrapping service is available at UO super store service counter.
Johor Bahru, one of the busiest city in Malaysia, boasts a regional shopping mall, AEON Mall Kulaijaya. Approximately 10km from Senai International Airport, it draws customer base from airport and nearby residential area. It’s also one of the favourite destinations for families and groups of friends.
Anchored by Summit, Heatwave, The Face Shop, Daiso, De’ Touch Beauty Care, the mall offers variety of retail services and products. Women who like grocery shopping shouldn’t miss out Aeon Supermarket located at ground floor. Here you can find whatever ingredients and food you want and the prices are cheap and affordable.
The excitement keeps on going with restaurants and food courts serving delightful dishes ranging from noodles, dim sum, fried rice to many other western dishes.
TGV Cinema is the feature of the mall. Book the cheap cinema tickets online and you get to enjoy all the latest releases in Aeon Kulaijaya.
Why is Aeon Kulajijaya mall worth visiting?
Free Wi-Fi available at the entire mall
Short queue in supermarket as compared to other AEON mall
Less crowded if compare with other shopping malls
Address: PTD 106273, Persiaran Indahpura Utama, Bandar Indahpura, 81000 Kulaijaya, Johor AEON Careline: 1-300-80-AEON(2366) Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10.00am – 10.00pm Friday to Saturday: 10.00am – 10.30pm
9. Sutera Mall
Spread over 677,000 square ft, Sutera Mall continues to be a popular destination for the fast growing residential communities of Taman Sutera Utama. Renovation completed in November 2011 has brought fresher look to the mall, creating an ambience that suits different festivals.
Open 365 days of the year, Sutera Mall features retailers like RSH, Fabiano Ricco, C&Y, Whoosh, Playboy, Yamaha and many popular brands. For customers interested in latest fashion trends, visit Trendy Zone located at level 2. You’ll find unlimited fashion products here.
Photo credits: suteramall.com
After shopping for the whole day, take a rest in any of the food and beverage outlets offered. Over 57 outlets options are available to cater to different customers need.
Take pleasure in the My Library in Sutera Mall. Aimed to improve the quality of lives of people, it is dedicated to serve and provide information and services for all.
Why is Sutera Mall worth visiting?
Boasts a unique setting, Sutera Walk equipped with colourful LED lightning.
Get to enjoy wonderful performances at Open Air Amphitheatre.
Full-stocked supermarket at all time.
Entertainment city is offered to provide complete shopping experience.
Very near to Legoland Malaysia
Address: 1, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia. Contact: +607 – 558 9009 Opening Hours: 10:30am – 10:30pm
10. Komtar JBCC Mall
This is the youngest and the most fashionable place for shopping in Johor. JBCC Mall was officially launched only in November, 2014. The Johor Bahru City Centre [JBCC] is set to become the premiere destination for shopping, entertainment, and imaginative development not only in Southeast Asia, but in the whole world.
The new mall replaced a 35-year old complex and fully open to public less than for a year now. But nevertheless, many Popular Retailers Have Already Committed To Komtar JBCC and there you can find such brand stores, as:
Chanel Cosmetic;
Victoria’s Secret;
Sephora;
Swarovski;
Tumi;
Dr Martens;
Bath&Body Works and many others.
With the latest trends on display and entertainment, Komtar JBCC aims to inspire everyone by providing a new way to engage people every day. Smart, savvy, and delightful, this location is perfect for Sunday shopping, holidays and family trips.
There are diverse needs that must be met in the modern shopping experience. It must be entertaining, affordable, and yet still provide a comfortable experience.
For that reason, an emphasis on providing international luxury brands the opportunity to reinvigorate Johor Bahru has been Komtar JBCC’s primary focus.
The Komtar JBCC, a luxury shopping mall that will be compromised by two office towers, hotel and its retail, dining and entertainment area, is the big hit in the Johor market and a long-expected travel destination for many people. The RM1.5 billion project not only aims to rejuvenate business flow in the Johor Bahru district but also it is the great landmark of the heart of the city center.
Address: Johor Bahru City Centre, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00am – 10:00pm Contact: +607-267 9900
11. Paradigm Mall JB
Paradigm Mall JB is a well-established regional shopping mall featuring over 600 shops spreading over 6 floors. It comes with a very modern and exquisite with a 4-star hotel and an ultra-modern 263 unit service apartment. Besides that, it is also JB new shopping mall.
It is located in a 13-acre portion of land and the latest city landmark in Johor. Benefits from JB city center, it offers easy access for residents from Johor. With only 20 minutes’ drive from Singapore, you’ll arrive at this splendid mall. It’s believed that the development of Paradigm Mall is able to boost Malaysia’s tourism internationally.
The mall features a high quality gourmet supermarket offering only excellent gourmet food and daily necessities. Renowned restaurants and food outlets are offered to serve the best local and international delicacies to customers. Besides, varieties of market retailers are offered to provide a comprehensive shopping experience.
The largest ice-skating rink in Johor, with over 20,000 sq ft is now made available in Paradigm Mall JB. It also features the biggest indoor rocknasium which is also the first one in Johor. The mall has made a great effort to provide as much entertainments as they could offer under the sole roof.
The setup applies a very unique retail concept that offers an opportunity for one to experience localized shopping at its best. That is not all because customers are also treated to a variety of feature including:
1.) A variety of family entertainment activities that are found in the one stop shop concept. This is a feature which is meant to benefit everyone including visitors and locals alike.
2.) A mixture of fashion lifestyles which are international in nature, specialty stores, popular restaurants, department stores, the largest indoors ice skating rink, family karaoke, a gourmet supermarket including the largest multiplex and much more.
3.) Offers different and original retail platform for all and is located in an ideal location in their need to expand and establish their footprints in the finest mall that this southern cosmopolitan has yet to experience.
This particular shopping mall is big with many retail possibilities and is easily accessible as it is about 10 minutes drive from Johor city centre and about 20 minutes from Legoland Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri (Nusajaya) and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town which are prime locations in Johor Bahru.
Why is Paradigm Mall JB worth visiting?
First and largest regional shopping mall in JB
First indoor rocknasium in Johor
Largest infoor ice-skating ring in Johor
Near to major tourist destination such as Legoland
Largest cinema in Johor Bahru
Address: 76, Jalan Mewah Ria 2/2, Taman Bukit Mewah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia. Contact: +603–7728 4773 / +603–7728 5773 Email:[email protected]
12. IKEA Tebrau Johor Bahru
IKEA is opened a new store in Johor Bahru (called IKEA Tebrau) on 16 November 2017 which will be located near Jalan Desa Tebrau and will be the first store in the southern region of Malaysia. It’s the largest IKEA store in South-East Asia.
The recruitment process for staff is ongoing. This is part of IKEA’s ambitious program to expand into Southeast Asia and the provision of affordable, functional and well designed Swedish home furnishings.
IKEA is well renowned for offering well-designed home furnishing and functional solutions at prices which are fair and are easily affordable.
It has well-focused customer oriented policies which incorporate services and activities that benefit the society. IKEA is fully owned and operated by Ikano Private limited. Its product variety is wide in a number of ways.
First, is its functionality where you’ll find everything you need for your home, be they plants and living-room furnishings or toys and whole kitchens.
Second is its vastness in style. And finally, is the combination of the two. Their range of products is wide in function and style at all times.
IKEA is an international company with many years of experience and will bring their experience to Johor to improve the lifestyles of the locals who will be exposed to international standards of products at a price that is affordable to a majority of the population.
The company will also create more job opportunities in the local area and thus contribute to the general development of the area.
How To Get To Shopping Mall Near Legoland Malaysia
Shopping malls in JB are interconnected by roads. Thus, car will be the best option to take you to the malls.
SGMYTAXI is now offering the most convenient and comfortable way to get to shopping malls in JB from Singapore. The private car services provided are excellent and highly rated in Singapore.
Experienced local drivers who are familiar with all the routes in Johor will bring you to and fro from the place you have quoted.
Reserve the car online and enjoy yourself throughout the ride.
“Middle Island” is the literal meaning of Pulau Tengah.
The nature beauty and its unique history add to the charm of this island.
With approximately 16km from Mersing, this personally owned island is well-known for its white sandy beach and crystal clear water.
Nestling among the coconut trees, the only resort on the island, Batu-batu resort blends into the island perfectly.
With the serenity and tranquillity offered, Pulau Tengah is definitely an ideal tropical getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city lives.
Why stay in Pulau Tengah?
Pulau Tengah was once a popular refugee camp for Vietnamese. Due to the abundance of unique marine life and coral reefs all around the islands, Pulau Tengah and other small islands was nominated as Marine Park in 1985 after the camp was closed.
Western countries had recognized the beauty of Pulau Tengah. In 1997, a famous Swedish reality television programme, Expedition Robinson, shot its scenes in Pulau Tengah. This makes the island well-known even among international tourists.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Visitors get to see three different types of turtles living and breeding at the southern shore of Pulau Tengah. Those who visit the island between June and August have higher chances of watching turtles laying their eggs.
The resort on the island is ideal for perfect weekend getaways from Singapore for family vacations. By providing baby and children facilities, the resort aims at lessen the burdens of parents travelling with children. With well-trained and friendly staff, parents can leave their children at the play house and enjoy the life of two.
What to Do in Pulau Tengah
As there are lots of exciting activities offered by the island, you’ll never get bored while staying here. The activities include:
1. Scuba Diving at Pulau Tengah
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Dive season on the island falls from 15th March to 15th November. The dive team is currently running many diving programmes for youth at different ages. Experienced dive instructors will teach and guide them at close hand.
Join a snorkel trip to discover the underwater world at Pulau Tengah. It’s an attracting experience to get up close with the reefs and sea creatures. Diving mask and fins can be rent from the resort.
Kindly speak to the staff to plan a visit to the beautiful neighbouring islands. The resort offers 2 boats for island hopping, one is 24 foot boat and the other is 32 foot boat.
4. Jungle trekking at Tengah Island
There are two treks offered to hikers, one is 3km that trek around the island (1 hour journey) and the other one is 1.5km that trek through the interior of island (30 minutes journey).
5. Canoeing at Tengah Island
Ride on a kayak and enjoy paddling against the current. It can be enjoyed alone or with a group of people. The kayak can be rent from the resort.
Time spent with your loved one is always worthy. Beach volleyball enables you to enjoy quality bonding times with them. Besides sharing the fun of game, the families can enhance their relationship among themselves.
Where to Stay in Pulau Tengah
1. Batu-Batu Resort
Batu Batu Resort is the only resort in Pulau Tengah. Set admist the coconut trees and white sandy beach, it is a family-friendly resort suitable for a fantastic family holiday.
The rustic furnishings offer a nature and warm ambience to guests. All the villas are built by local carpenters.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
With a spacious pavilion overlooking the sea, the on-site restaurant offers a finest dining experience. It has a menu that change daily during lunch and dinner.
Normally, dishes served would be fresh seafood and delightful local dishes. To cater for little ones, children’s menu is available everyday.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Snorkelling, diving, kayaking, swimming and hiking are the activities offered by resort. Take pleasure at their attap-roofed beach bar. It offers fresh juices as well as cocktails and wines. Otherwise, go to the spa. Their therapists will provide different treatments and massages to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Pulau Tengah is not always available. There are a few months that are not suitable to travel. When planning a getaway to Pulau Tengah, avoid the annual monsoon season which falls from October to March especially during December to February.
Monsoon season leads to rough sea, high tides and strong winds. Hence, it is dangerous to go for water sports and even some beach activities.
To ensure your safety, travel in between April and September. Thanks to the calm water and sunny days within these months, you can fill your days with different interesting activities and you get to enjoy the island living to the fullest.
Travel Tips to Pulau Tengah
Need not to buy ferry tickets beforehand as resort will arrange boat transfer for you.
Bring your own bite creams and mosquito repellents even though the resort will provide.
Need not to bring the equipment for water sports as the resort will provide.
Seek for map and advice from staff at front desk beforehand if you wish to go for jungle trekking.