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The small and tranquil island of Pangkor lies off Perak on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, just forty minutes by ferry from Lumut. This quaint fishing village possesses pristine white sandy beaches set against a backdrop of untainted forests surrounded by rolling verdant hills. For those who prefer a car journey, the beach resort can also be reached by road.
Setting off by car from Kuala Lumpur one can arrive in Lumut inside 3 hours on the North-South Highway, before continuing on to Pangkor. The road trip itself is enjoyable and also a good way for travelers who like the freedom to roam to soak up more of the country en-route. Lumut is the gateway to Pangkor and is located approximately 80 kilometers from Ipoh, the state's capital. From here, one can catch the ferry to Pangkor Island (which leaves every 30 minutes in the high season) and arrive at the beach resort in less than 15 minutes. There are even domestic flights to Pangkor Island from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport not far from Kuala Lumpur as well as from Subang Airport in KL.
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A view across MalaysiaExplorer.net's top-pick resort: the idyllic, old-world charm of Pangkor Laut Beach Resort (pictured) |
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History
This off-beat island is only 8 square kilometers in size and was once mainly a fishing village with a small dried fish industry. The island has now developed into a calm retreat for tourists, who have come to appreciate its heavenly setting and quaint charm.
In the past Pangkor was a hideout and retreat for pirates, fishermen, sailors and merchants and its name derives from the Thai word Pang Ko, which means 'beautiful island'. However it is also said that the island was a memorial for the legendary Chinese adventurer Pang Kui who led the pirates to shelter in Pangkor. The Dutch took possession of the island during the 17th century, where they built a fort to control the Perak tin trade but were eventually run off the island. In 1874 the Pangkor Treaty was signed with the British under the representative James WW Birch, who came to live in Perak and installed the British colony.
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Things to see & do: Beaches
The main attractions on the island are definitely its pristine white sandy beaches, which are amongst the most splendid and untouched along the western coast. Located in the northwest part of the island is Pantai Puteri Dewi, known as the Golden Sands Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island. Here visitors can sunbathe on a long stretch of sandy beach and bathe in warm turquoise waters with a backdrop of tall coconut palm trees. This site also offers excellent bird watching recreational activities, where hornbills can be often be sighted.
On Teluk Nipah beach, peace and calm are guaranteed. Here the lush vegetation and pristine sands offer an ideal place to lay back and relax, while open air stalls are available for any immediate refreshments. Adventurous escapades can also be enjoyed by walking across to Giam Island during low tide; here the waters are teeming with marine life.
Diving & Snorkelling
For those who love snorkeling and water activities, Pasir Bogak Beach is the place to head for. This snorkeling site with shallow waters and extensive reed areas is the ideal place to spot marine life. The beach lies on the channel facing Pangkor and Pangkor Laut and is situated near Pangkor town. Here one may take advantage of other water activities such as kayak excursions or simply enjoy a picnic under the shade of the tree-lined beach.
Pulau Semblian is an idyllic group of islands south of Pangkor where one can experience some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling around. These nine diminutive islands are part of a nature reserve and are uninhabited; however the waters are brimming with colorful marine life.
Wildlife
For nature lovers Pangkor has a breathtaking panoply of exotic flora and fauna, and patient onlookers can spot hornbills roosting on the treetops and monkeys swinging from branches. When venturing along the nature trails rare orchids can also be admired as well as multicolored butterflies.
Dining
For a genuine eating experience try the local stalls in Pankgor Town that serve delicious local dishes, notably fresh seafood. However, if you are looking for a restaurant, head for the one opposite the Kheng Hai Chuan Fishery, well known for its Kien noodles and breakfast menus.
Where to stay
Pangkor is renowned for its exclusive range of luxurious resorts offering first class service and accommodation. Nevertheless, one can find budget lodging around Nipah Bay, the cheaper places being the Camps where beach huts can be rented.
Search the widest range of accommodation options and resorts on Pangkor with MalaysiaExplorer.net's booking partner - also find verified guest reviews™ and image galleries.
Complete your trip with our travel essentials checklist: Tours, Flights and Car Rental
- Tailor all aspects of your holiday or visit to Redang Island with comprehensive tour and package choices.
- Read our top tips on car rental to ensure you choose a suitable vehicle at a good price.
- Our guide to Malaysia flights is packed with advice and pointers on finding the best routes and super deals.
Double click the map below to zoom in on Pangkor, and double right-click to zoom out!
Photo Credits: Jason Cartwright and Bare Dreamer
