Pulau Pangkor is an island off the coast of Perak in north-west peninsular Malaysia, reached by ferry from Lumut (a small coastal town that links to Ipoh, or from Sitiawan). It has a land area of only 8 square kilometers, and a population of approximately 25,000 islanders. It is heavily promoted as a low-key tourist destination by the Malaysian government, but fishing and fish products remain major industries.
Historically, Pangkor was a refuge for local fishermen, merchants and pirates. In the 17th century, the Dutch built a fort in an effort to control the Perak tin trade. In 1874, it was the location of a historic treaty between the British government and a contender for the Perak throne (The Pangkor Treaty), which began the British colonial domination of the Malay Peninsula.
Pangkor is famous for its fine beaches and a mix of low budget to 5 star accommodations. Teluk Nipah and Coral Bay on the north west of the island is extremely popular with travellers from Europe. The quality of sand in the Pasir Bogak Beach is far superior to that elsewhere on the island. The sand is golden brown, quite similar to most leading prime beaches. There are a few resorts in Teluk Nipah or Nipah Bay.
Tourist attractions
The main attractions in Pangkor Island are the beaches. Other attractions include:
· Pangkor Town
· Fishing Villages
· Fu Lin Kong Temple
· Kali Amman Temple
· Batu Bersurat and Tiger Rock
· Dutch Fort (Kota Belanda)
· The Tombs
· Tortoise Hill
Beaches
Of all the Malaysian Islands, Pangkor Island has still some beautiful and quiet beaches. Here you can still find the peace and tranquillity many other beaches in Malaysia have lost. Teluk Nipah and Pantai Pasir Bogak have attractions as the banana boats, kayaks and jet ski's available. Also it's possible to rent a boat to go around the island and do some snorkeling at Giam Island in front of Teluk Nipah.
Pantai Pasir Bogak (Pasir Bogak Beach)
Pantai Pasir Bogak is a few kilometers away from Pangkor Town on the West side of the island. This beach is probably the most popular of the Pangkor beaches. Maybe it is because it is so close to Pangkor Town. It has been described as 'the biggest swimming pool in the world'. The water is shallow and crystal clear. You will be able to arrange water-sport-facilities as jet-skiing, snorkeling or rent a canoe. All along the beach there are open-air food-stalls offering specialties such as barbecued squids, satay and fish crisps. Accommodation is easily available, ranging from luxury hotels, chalets to the more Spartan comforts of 'attap' huts and camping sites.
Teluk Nipah (Nipah Bay)
Of all the Pangkor beaches, Teluk Nipah or Nipah Bay is the most beautiful. This beach is located a few kilometers north Pantai Pasir Bogak. The beach is secluded and is able to maintain its natural beauty. Unlike other beaches, it has corals, sea cucumber and bird lovers can find the hornbill (Burung Enggang) on this beach. Conveniently people forget that Teluk Nipah is in fact 2 beaches: Nipah Beach and Coral Bay. Nipah Bay has a beautiful view on two small islands called Pulau Giam and Pulau Mentagor. Both of these islands are not inhabited although you might find locals willing to bring you there. It is said that when the tide is out you can even walk to Giam Island.
Giam Island is mostly interesting for snorkeling. The waters are shallow. There are lots of corals and fishes to see.
No comments:
Post a Comment