Pulau Pangkor

Forty minutes by ferry from Lumut is the popular island resort of Pulau Pangkor. Located about 90 km southwest of Ipoh, it is largely inhabited by fisherfolk who live in scattered settlements along the eastern coast, fishing for cuttle fish and anchovies.

The real attraction here, however are its enchanting beaches along the western coastline.

Pantai Puteri Dewi (Golden Sands) literally, 'Beach of the Lovely Princess' with its white sand, tropical surroundings and sparkling bay is one particular spot. Site of the Pan Pacific Resort, this stretch of beach offers guests elegant accommodation, convention rooms, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a golf course and facilities for snorkelling and windsurfing.

For a bit of history, there's the old Dutch Fort at Teluk Gedung. Built in 1670, it was a Dutch stronghold against pirates and local Malays, until a ferocious attack by Panglima Kulub and his followers forced its abandonment. Rebuilt in 1743, it served as a garrison for Dutch soldiers. Today, only the stone foundations and carvings on a large rock left by the soldiers remain.

If solitude amid quiet coves and untrodden bays is what you seek, then Tortoise Bay, Teluk Nipah, Teluk Dalam and Teluk Cempedak are the places to stay. Marvellous for swimming or just basking in the sun, they offer complete privacy amid lush green surroundings. Teluk Nipah is particularly ideal for snorkelling and diving. As one of Pulau Pangkor's sea parks, it is blessed with spectacular marine life and a vast coral reef.

Another snorkelling site with an extensive coral reef and shallow, crystal clear waters is Pantai Pasir Bogak. The largest and most popular destination on Pulau Pangkor, its large crescent-shaped beach and numerous shade trees also make it the idyllic spot for picnicking. Here you can find ample accommodation ranging from hotels, a government rest house to A-frame huts, to facilities for boating and fishing.

How To Get There
Ferry services operate at half-hourly intervals from Lumut to the island.