by An-Nur Nasir

Created on: July 14, 2009

Malaysia has a lot of interesting places but Lake Kenyir is definitely the most outstanding place of all. Situated in the Terengganu State, east of peninsular Malaysia, Kenyir is more than 260 kilometers square of area and reach the depth of 150 meters. There are 340 lush islands of varying shapes and sizes. To get more than a bird's eye of view, if you are flying in to Kuala Terengganu International Airport, just make sure you keep an eye out northward. If possible, try to take a seat on the left window when flying as it will be easier for you to see the majestic lake and the islands.

Tasik Kenyir is not a natural lake, as it was formed by the damming of the Kenyir River to create a hydroelectric powerplant. Kenyir Lake is blessed with various plants and wildlife. There are eagles, hornbills including the rarest, Rhinoceros Hornbills. Jungle trekking is a popular activity here especially along the southern edge which extends into protected confines of the National Park. The lake also is famous among anglers nationwide as it has more than 300 species of fresh water fishes. Recently the Terengganu State Authority has announced MYR10000 for anglers who manage to catch the dragon fish of Kenyir Lake or also known as Arapaima Gigas. This species is not a native of Kenyir Lake and is considered a threat to the native fishes.

Caving is another activity at Kenyir, there are two main caves, Bewah and Taat. They are located in the limestone hills within the National Park border on the lake southern perimeter. Bewah has a display of pre-historic artifacts like kitchen utensils and weapons unearthed there and in another cave, Tok Bidan.

For accommodation, Lake Kenyir Resort and Spa is definitely a great place to stay in. Built on a peninsula that juts out into the waters of the lake, the resort offers guests the choice of 136 stilt-mounted timber chalets and eight suites. The resort also equipped with the best facilities such as freeform swimming pool, restaurants, open-air lounge with 'live' band, karaoke, tennis and squash courts, gymnasium and wireless internet facilities.

To get there, Malaysia airlines flies daily from KLIA to the Sultan Mahmud International Airport in Kuala Terengganu, from where it is 45 minutes drive to Pengkalan Gawi of Lake Kenyir. By road it takes between six to seven hours to get to Kenyir from Kuala Lumpur using the Karak Highway and connecting to the Jerangau Jabor Highway. If you opt for public transportation, Kenyir Lake Express is a bus service that departs daily at 8 pm from Putra Terminal, Kuala Lumpur and reach Kenyir in the morning.

.

Learn more about this author, An-Nur Nasir.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.