The Rafflesia - World Biggest & Smellieast flower

It's the world's biggest flower, and maybe the stinkiest too. Now scientists have used genetic analysis to solve the longoutstanding mystery of the lineage of the rafflesia flower, known for its blood-red bloom measuring 1m wide and its nauseating stench of rotting flesh.

Writing in the journal Science, a team of researchers said rafflesia - discovered in an 1818 scientific expedition to a Sumatran rainforest - comes from an ancient family of plants known not for big flowers, but for tiny ones.

In fact, many of its botanical cousins boast flowers just a few millimeters wide. This family, called Euphorbiaceae, also includes the poinsettia, Irish bells and crops such as the rubber tree, castor oil plant and cassava shrub, the researchers said.
Rafflesia's many odd characteristics long had tripped up scientists trying to figure out where it fit on the botanical tree of life. It is sort of a botanical outlaw - a parasitic plant that steals nutrients from another plant while deceiving insects into pollinating it.
Rafflesia (pronounced rah-FLEZZ-ee-ah) lives inside the tissue of a tropical vine related to the gravevine, with only its flower visible. It is devoid of leaves, shoots and roots, and does not engage in photosynthesis, the process plants use to exploit the energy from sunlight.
Its flower can weight 7kg. They are blotchy blood red. They smell like decaying flesh and can emit heat, perhaps mimicking a newly killed animal in order to entice the carrion flies that pollinate it.
There are various species of rafflesia growing on the floor of rainforests in parts of South-East Asia. It is said its lineage dates back roughly 100million years to the Cretaceous period, the last act of the age of dinasours when flowering plants are believed to have first appeared. The researchers determined that over a span of 46 million years, rafflesia's flowers evolved a 79-fold increase in size before assuming a slower evolutionary pace.

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Charm of Kuala Selangor

A trip to Kuala Selangor should not be dictated purely by the obvious tourist attractions; rather, one should savour the hidden experiences. The district - the second largest in Selangor state - is home to several must-sees, including the famed fireflies of kampung Kuantan. But, equally exhilarating adventures await in the form of canoeing, catching eels or observing silvered leaf-monkeys.
Sungai Sireh Homestay is a warm and amiable village folk that have been hosting foreign visitors in its 25 homestay since 1995. Repeat visitors include a group of Koreans who simply cannot get enough of experiences such as river canoeing, jungle trekking, catching and cooking eels and learning about padi and fruit farming. Enjoying Nasi Ambeng is a unique form of socialising whereby as many as eight people eat from one tray - a practice owing to the predominantly Javanese villagers of Sungai Sireh.
A sanctuary of a different kind exists in the Kuala Selangor Nature Park. Managed by the Malaysian Nature Society, the park is home to small mammals, smooth otters, leopard cats, macaques, migratory birds and reptiles.
Glimpses of a degenerating mangrove forest can be viewed in the park where priority is placed on conservation. Bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts form the bulk of visitors. Park officers will draw your attention to the Brackish Lake System where salt water from the Straits of Malacca mixes with fresh water to create a safe nesting haven for birds. Birds that can be spotted at the park include the Barred-Eagle Owl and Black Baza.
The Kuala Selangor Nature Park is also the only place in Malaysia where the silvered leaf-monkey is found. Opportunity to feed these approachable creatures, many clutching orange infants, exist atop Malawati Hill near the park.
The hill which is of historical significance, affords a marvellous view of the Straits of Malacca. Sultan Ibrahim wrested Malawati Hill back from the Dutch in 1785 in one bloody night.
As you enter the Kampung Kuantan, you will encounter a large sighting of fireflies. It is the largest colony of fireflies in the world.

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Proboscis monkey in Labuk Bay Sandakan, Sabah

Probably one of the ugliest and most bizarre-looking primates this side of the equator, the proboscis monkey is a rather interesting creature found only on the island of Borneo, with Sabah hosting the highest population.
With a penchant for devouring poisonous leaves and swinging reckelessly from tree to tree, this clumsy-looking arboreal monkey sporting a signature bulbous nose, rotund pot-belly and peculiar brown coat that gives an impression of a portly Freanchman, definitely warrants attention.
Like many other primates in the animal kingdom, the social structure here favours male dominance with a male proboscis leading a harem of up to 20 females along with his off-spring. Once his male progeny come of age in their fifth year, they quickly become competition. Not permitting them an opportunity to challenge and usurp his authority, he chases them away. These exiled primates usually travel in bachelor groups till they are able to establish their own harem, hijack another's or simply steal a wife or two.
Though it may seem that this chauvinistic system bequeaths power to the male, after learning how a leader may fall from grace perhaps, power isn't all it's cut out to be. easy come, easy go! it just takes a few flirtatious flares of a brazen female nostril, straight and enticing to let another male know of her availability as well as desire to male, and a challenge is issued.
Now, the alpha male must defend his harem or risk losing everything; children, wives and status. He will trash about, embellishing his power by straightening his own pendulous nose and crashing through trees to demonstrate his strength. Choosing dry branches that crack easily, his might is established. Now, it's up to his opponent to either back down or show his mettle. In a dance as old as time, mating rituals and exhibitions of prowess are played out in the buzzing mangrove.
Should his adversary prove to be the more impressive branch-cracker and nose-flarer of the two, the alpha male's reign is over. His harem will not abide his impotence and ego-bruised he will retreat into the jungle, isolated from his family to re-join bachelorhood.
It really is a jungle out there. Territory and property are not to be taken for granted. The perks of bigamy pale in comparison to the continual struggle to defend one's own. And even the legendary 24-hour erection (often dubbed the red chili for obvious reasons) that permits a male proboscis to mate several times a day with an interval of just a few minutes seems a plague.
But life for the proboscis is a lot tougher than this, its internal power struggles are minor when faced with the threat of extinctions. Driven from their mangrove habitat by illegal clearing, logging of bakau wood and overdevelopment of agriculture, they wrestle with their greatest nemesis yet: man. Inhabiting coastal swamps, peat swamps and riverine forests, the proborcis has no where to go. Boarded by the sea on one side and land on the other, their home is rapidly diminishing. Violated and pushed to the brink, they will disappear.
Though not officially elevated to the respected status of 'endangered' species conferred upon their fellow almost-extinct friends such as the Sumatran Rhino, they're plight is no less significant. With a population of a mere 2000 in Sabah, this number is alarming.
Getting there
Labuk Bay is situated 38km from the Sandakan International Airport. Due to uneven gravel roads, the journey into this sanctuary located within a mangrove forest takes approximately an hour. For more information, contact Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary at (+6)089-672133/177

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Sea Turtles in Selingan Island Sandakan, Sabah

Sea turtles have roamed tropical waters for over 135 million years. These ancient creatures can live to be older than 100 years. Reflecting on these traits which clearly establish an extraordinaryily long history and propensity for surviving most other creatures, it is wonder that there are still many unanswered questions surrounding them.
Though we know that they migrate thousands of miles across oceans, we still have no conclusive evidence as to why they return faithfully to their own natal beach to nest and where they migrate to after nesting. Also, there are those lost years unaccounted for between hatching and their emergence as adults.
The only thing we know for sure is where we can find them when they return to nest. Selingan Turtle Islands just an hour by speedboat from sandakan town is protected as a santuary for these gentle turtles. Though peak nesting season is observed from May through to September, nesting occurs throughout the year, and Selingan offers tourist and marine enthusiasts a wonderful opportunity to observe this miraculous event up-close.
Activities on the beach are prohibited from 6pm till 6am the nest day for fear of scaring off turtles making their way up. Even the slightest noise or light will send a turtle scurrying back to the sea. But if left undisturbed, she will burrow her nest in the dry sand above the high tide mark and lay up to 120 eggs in a single nesting.
She may return another five to seven times in a season to lay more eggs, each clutch with an interval of two weeks. Though it may seem that turtles produce bounteous eggs ensuring the endurance of the species, in reality one out of 1,000 hatchlings survive the pilgrimage to adulthood out in the open seas. In fact, turtles only begin their three-hour mating ritual when they reach sexual maturity at the ripe age of 30. This long wait coupled with the threat of predators make for an arduous survival.
Fossil evidence proves that more than 30 species of turtle have gone extinct. Today, only seven are left: the leatherback of the dermochelyidae family and the hawksbill, olive ridley, loggerhead, kemp's ridley, flatback and green turtle of the cheloniidae family.
At Selingan, rangers patrol the 1,200 metre sandy coast waiting for the first sign that a turtle is afoot. Tourists are only allowed near when the turtle has finished digging her body pit and egg chamber; using her hind flipper, this process can take up to two to three hours. Only when she is satisfied with the depth of the chamber will she begin expelling her eggs.
These sticky sperm-covered eggs which are only fertilized in the nest are havested from their original resting place and relocated to the hatchery for safekeeping and incubation. According to the rangers, they have recorded a decline in male offspring. To counter this problem, eggs are incubated according to temperature; cooler temperatures between 25 and 29 degrees celcius offer a higher probability of females, where else warmer temperatures of 30 to 34 degree celcious yield a higher likelihood of males. Thus, the hatchery located in a cool area whre trees provide ample shade.

This article is courtesy of Crystal Quest, whihc organizes transport to Pulau Selingan and operates the only resort on the island.

To Get There; Sandakan is accesible via a 2 hour 45 minute flight from LCC, KLIA. Airasia flies to Sandakan daily from KL.

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Going to Perhentian Island

Thread 1 - 9 Sept 2006

We are planning to travel to Malaysia February 07 (4-5 weeks). Our childrens age: 3and half years and 15 months old. As the children are this small we think the best way is to fly from KL to Kota Baru. Stay there for about 2 days for acclimasation and then head to the Island. Who is experienced to travel with small kids? Where did you stay? What is important to think about? Any good place to stay for small children? Cooking facility? Safe around Bungaloos, shallow water,....ect....We will not make big steps, means we will not travel around much as we don't know how the kids will manage the change of everything.Thanks for any information!

Reply from others..

Reply 1 - I dont think there will be a big difference between Kota Bahru/KL/Perhentians. Perhaps Perhentians is more similar to KL than Kota Bahru.If u are going to redang instead, u can actually fly! redang

Reply 2 - The main consideration about the Perhentian and small kids is that if you are still using a buggy, the terrain is not conducive.For instance Long Beach, Kecil, is literally a long beach with jungle behind and accomodation and restaurants between thus making buggy use all but impossible. However there are some resorts which are more accomodating. The other issue is that the boat ride from Kuala Besut is over an hour long and I must admit I personally found it a little harrowing in places (probably because I'm a big whimp!).Also I was unaware of any cooking facilities, however I could be wrong. The water is quite shallow (between knee and thigh height) to quite far out and South China Sea is extremely bouyant.The mosqito situation on the Perhentians is extreme, I got bitten there more than Thailand, Penisula Malaysia or Indonesia.

Reply 3 - Hi there, be aware that you may find yourself in the midst the rainy season on the east coast. It can sometimes stretch to March and at its worst you are likely to find many bungalow places closed, and no ferry service. We travelled to Malaysia, including Sabah, with a 6 year old and it was great fun. The Perhentians are wonderful, but as i say you may have to rethink/avoid the east coast at this time. Contact me for more info if you wish. Paul

Reply 4 - agreed with #3. look out for the rainy season from nov-feb. march is usually a better month (if the weather is good) and this is when the islands start to become lively again cos of the better weather.

Reply 5 - Yeap.. it's still rainy season and the monsoon is not over yet... so, all the resorts in those island are practically off.... the better month to these islands is from April onwards.. which May is the best season and peak seson due to school holiday..Well, for children, i think it's a bit of problem cause from the jetty to those island, it takes min 45 minutes (depends on what kind of boat you are taking...) speed boat, as you can imagine, it's uncover and you really have to sit still otherwise, you will be fly out from the boat.. :)In Kota Baru, there is no interesting places to visit and it is a Muslim state which they are kind of conservative in all means, this is including clothing.... and they will give you a funny look if you are wearing a short with spagetthi... so, i think to put a night in Kota Baru is not necessary... probably you may want to stay over in KL and from KL take domestic (cheap... you may book now, having promotional price) flight, check : www.airasia.com.my .... Or you may go through some local agent for the package as it is a very common package and the price is quite reasonable... the package will normally inclusive of return flights, accomodation, foods and snorkelling trip..... There will be no cooking utilities in the island... basically, it is some sort of chelats or resorts which they will provide food (inclusive in your package)...

Reply 6 - Kota Bharu is not a good place for kids. The traffic can be chaotic, the streets and markets are not very clean, there's not much to do for kids, and because it's not a major tourist spot e.g. the restaurants serving western food are scarce, as are e.g. shopping malls. I think it's more interesting than KL, but if I was travelling with kids, I'd probably spend a few days in the capital (where you can get all the western-style services/goods/food you might want) rather than in Kota Bharu. If you decide to go to the Perhentians despite the rainy season, the big island (Besar) is probably more family-friendly with more upmarket resorts that have good services, paved path etc. I saw lots of families there, although not many with very small children. Check Perhentian Island Resort - it's the most expensive and probably the best, with a great location.

Reply 7 - Thanks all for your replies!Who has really be there with own children at this age? Remark: We all are used to aisan food. We carry our chidren on our body (We are not a bugy-travelling family) We know how to travel (clothing) in muslim and asian regions. Used to live in a asian country. We don't want to find the european lifestile there....of course with children it must be little more confortable/clean as we are used when traveling without kids. That is why now I ask again: Who has stayed there with their children? Tank you for your reply. Bye

Reply 8 - Hi, I haven't travelled with young kids, but lived on Perhentian for 6 months, it was a while ago and some things have changed.Firstly though if you can organsie to gt yourself out to the islands straight away rather than stay in Kota Bahru I would do that, it is far more humid and hot in Kota Bahru than on the islands.Long beach on Kecil has the better beach for the kids, it is shallow and last time i was there it had a net on it, mostly for the boats - not any other reason.As far as I know there are no self-cater facilities on either of the islands, although food is quite cheap. There is also a couple of shops and you can get a taxi/boat around to the villiage (Kampung) to stock up on bottled water etc.Moonlight, Matahari and chempacca (sp) were the best places to stay but again things can change, all have rooms with or without private facilities. Moonlight is close to the rocks though so could be a problem.February will be very quiet on the island as most people are only just returning after Monsoon and cleaning up, The crossing may be a little bi rougher than normal, you may want to look at going a bit later. Take heaps of RID for the mossquito's and maybe some antiseptic soap and wipes as the fishing boats clean there catch in the waters not far from the island and the water (ocean) has a fair bit of bacteria due to the temperature enabling things to grow.

Reply 9 - You can stopover in Kota Bharu Town to see the beautiful temples ( one of the largest reclining buddha in south east asia at Wat Pothivihan .,the largest sitting Buddha in Malaysia Guiness Book of Record at Wat Pothivihan, the standing Buddha and the dragon Boat Temples at Wat SuwanKhiri..You can also visit the cottage industries to see the skilled workers drawing a beautiful designed clothing at the Batik factory or your kid can alos visit the kite making shops.others historical place to visits are the war memorial Museum ( to see the collections and history of the Japanese Invasion during the scond world war,Istana Jahar ( Royal Museum),Istana Batu ,Market place to seee the curtural of the Malaysia waman traders doing their businsess in the central market Siti Khadijah. If you need the comfortable place to stay in Kota Bharu Town:Lee Guesthouse is highly recommended.please check the following link: http://www.leeguesthouse.8m.com/ the guesthouse is very suitable for a family travellers:please read the comment by other travellers in trip advisor:-http://www.leeguesthouse.8m.com/whats_new.htmlN.B.I have no relationship with the owner of Lee Guesthouse,I got to know the place from surfing the internet Trip Advisor.My family has stayed there for 2 nights and it is clean ,friendly ,comfortable and enjoyable.

Reply 10 - I have not travelled to Perhentian with small children, but since I am planning a trip with quite a few of the kind (age 7 mnd to 6 years), I have done some research. Here is what I found after staying twice on Perhentian Besar, talking to families with children basicly the same age as yours;- Food is bougth, not cooked. Cheap and most of the resturants even make special food (even for you this would not be a requirement) for the children. As always in south-east Asia, children are treated like a treat, not a nuicance. - Water is shallow, and some of the families we talked with, were staying at Mama's place (haven't stayed there myself, but think it it is basic, clean and with some rooms with A/C, some with a fan. They do have familiy bungalows and a nice resturante. Paradise Island resort next door is sligthly more expencive, caters mostly to divers but has a truly exellent dinner-resturant), because the beach here is very shallow and you have to walk a LONG ways before it gets any deeper. This beach is not that nice, but only 200 m away there are a much better beach that made wonderful "familiy outings" when the parents wanted to. There are also nice corals out from this other beach, and I watched children down to about 2 years of age "snorkel" with just a mask, screaming "Mama, look at the little Nemos!" The water here is only about 30-50 cm deep when you can see tropical fish.- the trip out there is not always a pleasure, but as long as you have some travelling-experience, I can not see this as a big problem. Children react as their parents, and non of the parents I talked with(think I had longer conversations with three couples with smaller children, chatted briefly with two more) mentioned the trip as a problem. This was in late March, but WE as grown-ups found the trip out a little bit on the rougth side. ;->- All the parents mentioned the degree of safety they felt on the island, with few really dangerouse stuff their children could get into. There are no trafic, few animales (yes, there are snakes, there are scorpions living in little holes under stones and stuff in the jungel, but I gess you are not thinking of sending your children there unattended :-) ) Only real danger is some of the sea-animales, but they are in the sea in the whole region.-I intend to take "my" children to live at Coral View Resort, but that is just because for a lot of these people this will be their first trip to south-east Asia, and I want them to have a good time. And I have choosen Besar because I have absoloutly not desire to end up with people partying all around me (have done my share, and seem to vagely recall that taking parents with children into consideration late at nigth was NOT something I wanted to do), and even if it is not that bad, I think Besar would be best for the familiy scene. If going to Kecil, I would choose one of the more remote places. But that is ME, and not anything near the only thruth. I would have gone, but done the stop in Kota Bharu on the way in from the island. Always more fun with towns when you already are acclamatised...

Threads 2 - 25 November 2006

Hey, I was thinking of heading down to Malaysia in early December. Does anyone know if the Perhentian Islands have closed yet? I know they close for monsoon season, but I'm not sure when that begins...

Reply from others..

Reply 1 - I don't think the islands 'close'! But they will be very quiet. Some (if not all) diving operations do close, however, usually October.

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Climbing Kinabalu - All you wanted to know

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Thread 1 - 3 August 2006
Mt. Kinabalu in Sabah, Borneo, 4095 m of granite. Tallest mt in SEA. Two trails, Timpohon and Melisau, the former being the usual trail that most people take and Melisau being about two clicks longer if I'm not mistaken. You can ascend via one and descend by the other if you want. Most people start the climb in the morning (I started at around 10 a.m.) and get to Laban Rata in the afternoon. After dindins and an early sleep we wake up around 2 a.m. and start the second leg by 2.45 to make it to the peak for sunrise. After that it all goes downhill. :p
Getting to the park:Bus from KK - Kinabalu Park: RM 15 one way (1 1/2 hour trip)Bus from Sandakan - Kinabalu Park - not sure, but probably around RM 25-30
Entrance fee to Kinabalu park:Malaysian adult - RM 3, Below 18 - RM 1Non-Malaysian adult - RM 15, Below 18 - RM 10
Climbing Permit:Malaysian adult - RM 30, below 18 - RM 12Non-Malaysian adult - RM 100, below 18 - RM 40
Insurance: RM 7
Shuttle to Timpohon gate: Less than 5 ppl: RM 30/van (return trip)More than 5: RM 8/person
Guide Fee:Timpohon-Peak-Timpohon: 1-3 pax [RM 70] 4-6 pax [RM 74] 7-8 pax [RM 80]Timpohon-Peak-Melisau: 1-3 pax RM 80, 4-6 pax RM 86, 7-8 pax RM 92Melisau-Peak-Melisau: 1-3 pax RM 84, 4-6 pax RM 90, 7-8 pax RM 100
Porter (optional) for 10 kg max: Timpohon-Timpohon: RM 66 to Laban Rata, RM 80 to Sayat-Sayat, RM 88 to SummitTimpohon-Melisau: RM 76 to Laban Rata, RM 88 to Sayat-Sayat, RM 100 to SummitMelisau-Melisau: RM 88 to Laban Rata, RM 100 to Sayat-Sayat, RM 110 to Summit
Certificate (optional): RM 10Accommodation at Laban Rata:All monopololized by Sutera Sanctuary: www.suterasanctuarylodges.comUnheated huts/dorm: RM 30/nightHeated: RM 46
Food:Laban Rata ranges from RM 13/plate of fried noodles - RM 30 or 35? not sure for dinner buffet.
Fitness (from info sheet):
"It is recommended that all climbers should have themselves medically checked before attempting any mountain climb. If you have a history of suffering from the following ailments, it is highly recommended that you should refrain from climbing: Hypertension, Diabetes, Palpitations, Arthritis, Heart Disease, Severe Anemia, Peptic Ulcers, Epileptic Fits, Obesity, Chronic Asthma, Muscular Cramps, Hepatitis, etc.
"It's said that anyone can climb Kinabalu, but I'd recommend that you be at least somewhat fit or it'll probably be a little strenuous. :p It *is* hauling your butt up 13500 feet. I did it without any form of training.
Climbing time:Climbathon people do base-summit-base in just under three hours. Don't expect to do anything near that. If you're crazy like a Canadian dude I once knew, he ran down from Laban Rata in two hours which is impressive enough. Don't feel too ashamed as porters jog by you with baskets of rice and gas tanks on their backs!
For an averagely unfit bum like me I took 5 hours to Laban Rata, 3 hours from Laban Rata to the peak, 1 and a half hours from the Peak to Laban Rata, and 4 and a half hours from Laban Rata to the bottom. Coming down was harder than going up. If you have knee problems, watchout. If you're like me and started out without knee problems, I definitely had problems halfway down. :p I hobbled around for a few days after and had a vendetta against stairs of any sort and really did not like the four flights of stairs up to my hostel room.
Things to bring:-walking shoes, warm clothes, windbreaker, change of clothes, raincoat-water (there are tanks of untreated mountain water (no problems with the water), rest huts and toilets along the way up to Laban Rata. No refills from Laban Rata to summit)-high energy food/chocolate, etc-headache tablets, sunblock, lip gloss, deep heat lotion (for cramps), band aids, repellent-torchlight/headlamp-regular stuff. toiletries, towel, camera, etc.
Good shoes are important. Hiking sandals for the way down unless you want to kill your toenails like me from slamming into the front of your hiking shoes - I was most definitely in pain from that on the way down and right now I have a black toenail as a souvenier. Bring something to keep you warm at the peak unless you're crazy and feel at home in near-freezing temps. It was about 8 degrees Celcius at Laban Rata when we left in the early a.m. and colder at the peak.
Chocolate tasted amazing at the peak. I was glad I'd brought it. Haha. Pack light though, I was definitely feeling the 5 kg on my back. And bring a raincoat! It rained while I was going up and coming down (poured, I was miserable).
Altitude Sickness:Watch out for altitude sickness, I got away with being very out of breath (pacing yourself is key) and a mild headache. I popped an aspirin before starting the second leg so I was fine, but one of my cabin mates puked up on the floor at some point in the night, and some friends of mine failed to make it to the summit because of dizziness.
Booking rooms:Often the hardest part of climbing independently is getting a room at Laban Rata. You MUST have accommodation at Laban Rata to get a climbing permit. I booked (and paid for) my room about three months in advance BUT even then the first two times I called they had no vacancies. Most of the time tour operators book up the rooms so that you have to go through them, but being a budget traveller I wasn't going to pay a jacked up price. I guess perseverance paid off in this case.
Check with the HQ in KK for vacancies when you get in, and prepare to be flexible. The couple I climbed with was staying at the Park, on a wait-list and got room last minute (they shared a bed though), so that's an option too - so just keep trying and hope to get lucky!
I waited around at the Park HQ for about 20 minutes and bumped into the couple that I split the cost of a guide with, so if you're traveling solo and want to share a guide get there early enough so that you have time to spare waiting around while still managing to start the climb with good time to get to Laban Rata

Reply info by others:
Reply 1 - It is Mesilau....not melisau

Reply 2 - if you go by taxi from kinabalu airport directly to the park, it costs 150 RM (feb 06).from the park, if you charter a car directly to KK, it costs 135 RM.

Reply 3 - Plenty of express buses that goes east from Kk to sandakan, lahad datu and tawau passed the kinabalu park on at least hourly bases in the morning just hop on one at the Inanam bus terminal at Jalan Tuaran. On the return back to kota kinabalu it is unpredictable but there will be lots in the afternoon or into evening.If you book through agent it may not be cheap at all. i got one who quote me up to RM400.00 per person excluding meals.

Reply 4 - To get to Inanam, catch the shuttle from downtown KK. It costs RM 1.50 for the 10-min bus ride to the long-distance bus terminal. Shuttles are supposed to run every 15 mins starting from about 6 a.m. The first time I took it it was smooth as could be, the second time, I waited half an hour for the shuttle and when it arrived, the driver dwadled around for another half hour before he actually left. Needless to say I almost missed the bus to Sandakan - I managed to jump on the last 9.30 a.m. bus out of KK.Plenty of providers, just tell them you want to go to Kinabalu Park.

Reply 5 - There a beef stew shop in Inanam that sells on every sunday, absolutely good. It is located at the corner lot near a hardware store, if i remembered it correctly. I can't remember the street name though...

Reply 6 - Looking at the http://www.suterasanctuarylodges.com/ website, are all the dorm huts in Laban Rata pretty much the same? - any preferences between Panar Laban Hut, Waras Hut and Gunting Lagadan Hut???

Reply 7 - didn't really get to see the other huts but I'm guessing they're all about the same...my room at Waras Hut was roomier than the room my climbing buds had at Gunting Lagadan though. The thing is that I reserved a room at Panar Laban but when I got there they gave me a room in Waras Hut instead..so you might end up with something other than what you booked. Just remember you have to check in and check out at Laban Rata. I was too lazy to climb down to Waras before dinner so I sneaked my shower at Laban Rata and hung around till dinner before climbing back down...and the next day I took my stuff up to Gunting Lagadan and left it at my friend's room before heading up to the peak so I wouldn't have to climb down to Waras and back up to Laban Rata to check out. Yes I am a lazy bum. :pHave fun, and DON'T trust the online booking! Didn't work for me...better to call in, I say.

Reply 8 - From Mesilau you start at 2000m but you have to climb up, then down into a valley, then back up again. If you come down from the mountain then you'll have to climb back up out of the valley (just as your legs are giving out) about 400m before going down to the Mesilau trailhead. This is why most people prefer to leave from Mesilau for the ascent. You can book transport to Mesilau or you can take a bus to the turnoff and hitch a ride. From Mesilau (a dead end) you'll probably find someone to give you a lift to the main road. From there you can hail a bus. Don't miss the largest pitcher plant (you have to take a guided tour) while you're there.If you don't get a room, don't worry. Show up and wait for a cancellation. Even at the last minute something usually turns up. If you don't have a confirmed room they might let you go up anyhow (provided you "promise" to come down if nothing is available). Given the amount of rooms and the number of unprepared climbers, there is a very high chance that someone will turn back and you'll get a room. You can climb without a guide. Ask for the "waiver form". Be persistent. Guide is useless.Bring warm clothes for the top. Expect rain. Go for a heated room to dry your stuff.You forgot the best part - soaking your bones at Poring Hot Springs after the climb. The private rooms with the "rafflesia" hot tubs are simply the best! (Those who have been will know what I mean!)

Reply 9 - Here are some notes I posted on LP from a climb 6 mths ago. Budget travellers DIY climb of Mt KinabaluSutera Sanctuary Lodges have a monopoly on the compulsory accommodation halfway up the mt, so you must have a confirmed booking in one of those huts before you can do the trek.
I recommend one of the unheated huts M$46/night dorm bed, rather than the heated Laban Rata M$69/night dorm bed. You can wrap up well (a couple of blankets provided) and you’re only sleeping say from 7pm to 2am. The unheated huts now all have hot showers, and good self catering facilities (take some tea or coffee sachets – as many brews as you like for free).
Food at Laban Rata (no self catering facilities) e.g.M$30 for evening smorgasbord, cup of coffee M$4.60 Fees that all non Malaysians must pay:
Park Entrance M$15 (valid 3 days incl Poring Hot Springs also)
Climbing Permit M$100 (a plastic necklace tag – don’t lose it; gets checked a several places up the mt)
Climbing Insurance M$7Return transport to Timpohon Gate start of actual trek M$6. Don’t be too much of a cheap charlie –you’ll appreciate the lift at the end of your walk back down the mt.
Guide fee 1-3 in group M$84 (shared cost)
Guide fee 4-6 in group M$90 (shared cost)
Guide fee 7-8 in group M$100 (shared cost)
I heard rumour of a guide waiver form, but I don’t know how you obtain one or prove that you don’t need a guide.
Option 1 (for group 4-8) Kota Kinabalu> Mt Kinabalu> Kota Kinabalu (2 or 3 days)
Option 2 (for solo traveller or couple) Kota Kinabalu> Mt Kinabalu> Kota Kinabalu (2 or 3 days)Option 3 Kota Kinabalu> Mt Kinabalu> Poring,Sandakan,Sepilok etc
Option 1.Organise a group of friends beforehand in KK (as many as possible 4-8? to cut down on guide fees and transport costs). The track up to Laban Rata is quite obvious and well maintained, so the guide walks just behind the last person in the group - the faster walkers can proceed at their own pace and simply report back to guide at Laban Rata so that he can cross you safely off his list for the first day.
Arrange a taxi/minibus (Inquire at v good tourist info office for shuttle service companies or try Suniland Ph: 088 702 188/198 M$50 rtn KK>MtK>KK) for as early as possible in the morning for pickup in KK (5:30-6am) to get you to Park HQ (journey 2 hrs) in early morning to start walking before midday rainfall (afternoon rain and mist quite common).
Park rules: must proceed from Timpohon Gate no later than midday.
Public bus is cheaper, but remember that firstly you have to get yourself out to the bus station 4km out of KK centre, and I think first bus doesn’t leave till 7:30 am. You’ll only save a few M$ doing that, and may have hassles flagging down a bus on the main road outside Park HQ for your return to KK after the trek.
Day 1: It’s 6 kms from Timpohon Gate to Laban Rata. Mainly an uphill slog, but just walk at your own pace. Stop to rest if you’re tired. Every kilometre there are rest shelters and untreated (but I had no problems with it) clear mt water tanks.
Day2: Start at 2-3am depending on your walking speed to reach the summit for dawn. It’s very cold on top (near freezing), so you don’t want to be hanging around up there too long. Ask your guide for estimate of your walking time. 2.7 kms to summit from Laban Rata. Occasionally steeper than Day 1, thinner air and colder. Some ropes to hold onto, but there’s no risk of falling to your death as long as you stick to the clearly marked path. Anyone who is reasonably fit can do it. Some people are susceptible to altitude sickness. (one person amongst approx 100 climbers on the day I did it felt ill and turned back).
After summiting, return to your hut to collect stored luggage, have a brew and a bite to eat. Then descend to Timpohon Gate and Park HQ for arranged return transport to KK. Advantage: you can be back in a budget guest house in KK within 2 hours from park entrance with a huge choice of eating places to relax in.Disadvantage if you’re travelling through the rest of Sabah, it’s backtracking the 2 hours past Park HQ again.
Option 2 (for solo traveller or couples, or folks who simply want to acclimatize an extra day in the park)Stay an extra day at Park HQ “before” commencing walk next day so that you can join someone else’s group.
Either,stay at Park HQ Sutera Sanctuary Lodge’s v clean dorm hostel the night before the trek M$46/night. Only a kettle and a few cups to make your own brew or perhaps a pot noodle. There is a café within the Park – evening meal M$12?? There’s a superb restaurant too with wines… the works, if money is no object. Across the road from the entrance to Park HQ there is a very good reasonably priced private restaurant and shop. Some nice walks and gardens nr Park HQ, and a chance to acclimatize.
Or,Investigate staying at one of the places just outside Park HQ or even 6 kms away in Kundasang (visit Sandakan Death March Memorial Park there).
Advantage for solo traveller and even couples is that you can add your name to a list of others wanting to join a group to cut down on guide fees. But you must be at Park HQ by 7:30-8 am to hook other with others in this ad hoc group. You may be lucky coming up from KK later in the morning to join an another group, but chances are slimmer.Tip: when you’re paying your park entrance and climbing fees etc “ask” if you can join another group’s guide. They won’t tell you. You walk at your own pace and not as a group anyway.
Transport – arrange with a shuttle service company as above, or since you have a day to spare, save money by taking the public bus up to the park. You still have the problem of getting back to KK by flagging down a Ranau/Sandakan>KK bus. If you’re wet, tired and bedraggled at the end of the trek, this may not be so appealing.
Option 3 Kota Kinabalu> Mt Kinabalu> Poring,Sandakan,Sepilok etc i.e those who want to continue their journey through Sabah without backtracking to KK.Left luggage at Park HQ M$10 for 2 days.As above in Option 1 or 2, but only arrange o/w transport to Park HQ.When I finished the walk, I enjoyed soaking in the hot springs at Poring.
To get there:Either, prearrange with one of the shuttle service companies such as Suniland to be waiting at say 1:30-2pm to take you to PoringOr, try to share the Sutera Lodge taxi to Poring (a hefty M$75)
Or, haggle with a private taxi hanging around the Park HQ. A friend negotiated one taxi for M$20 for herself alone, but had to wait while the driver picked up his racing winnings from a betting shop in Ranau
Or, flag down a passing express bus going to Ranau or Sandakan. Alight at Ranau and try to get transport from Ranau to Poring.You could possibly get to Sandakan or Uncle Tan’s or Sepilok just outside Sandakan the same day after finishing your trek. But hassles and uncertainty of flagging down buses in the rain for a 4 hour plus journey was not very appealing, when all I wanted was a hot bath and a chance to rest my weary bones.
Tips:If flexible choose your trek day after googling the 7 day weather forecast for Ranau. Mt Kinabalu has its own mini climate, but it may give you a better chance of a good view from the summit.Agencies block book some of the accommodation, but if you turn up at Sutera’s KK office, they can probably fit you in somehow.Keep some warm “dry” gloves for summit. Headlamp torch handy.
At Park HQ you can hire/buy a walking stick M$10.At Laban Rata you can hire a torch,blanket,towel for M$5, sleeping bag, jacket for M$10.Total cost incl transfer but excluding meals
Option1 KK>MtK>KK(2 days,1 night) – M$239
Option2 KK>MtK>KK(3 days,2 nights) – M$285 (poss cheaper if stay outside Park one night )Option3 KK>MtK>Poring(4 days,3 nights) – M$331 (Incl shared transport and accomm at Poring - poss cheaper if stay outside Park first night )
You can of course pay much more than this, if money is no object like staying in the Rajah Lodge at Park HQ for M$1500/night and dining in the best restaurant with choicest wines. But if you’re a long term budget traveller, a few $$ saved here and there without depriving yourself too much will keep you on the road for weeks longer.Happy Trekking.PS. Budget travellers DIY Gunung Mulu Caves and Pinnacles climb coming soon

Reply 10 - We got caught out because we didn't have enough cash and some options on the mountain are cash only. Someone else may be able to be a bit more specific on this. We ended up catching a taxi to the nearest town but couldn't get money out using our Australian credit cards becuase they only had a magnetic strip and not the smart thingy that they use in most countries now. We couldn't get money out over the counter there either - we ended up getting it out at the bank in the next town on (sorry i can't remember the town names now).
Also the LP listed the hike as 'suitable for all ages and fitness ranges'. I would suggest if you're really really unfit it may be slow going and a bit of a struggle. Both of us are not overly fit and did it in around the same time as freespiritz but we thought we'd motor up there! There are hardly any flat bits to give the muscles a rest so the trick is slow and steady, take breaks when you need them and eat small snacks along the way. Drink lots of water too - the water in the tanks is fine to drink. Start early to avoid the rain.It's a fantastic experience and a big achievement for non-mountain climbers like me.

Reply 11 - I'm flying into Brunei - BSB. Planning to spend a day or two there, then head to that park with the wildlife & lookout tower thing. How long does it take to get from eastern Brunei up to KK (I assume by speedboat?). Oh guess I'll need to stop at a border control somewhere....I'll probably stay in KK a day or two, heard it's quite interesting. Then off to Mt K, my main goal of the 2 week stopover!So it's best to ring them to book?This number here http://www.suterasanctuarylodges.com.my/contact.htm ? Will I get someone who speaks english. And do I need to pay in advance

Reply 12 - >>How long does it take to get from eastern Brunei up to KK (I assume by speedboat?)... not sure I went to Brunei from KK via Labuan island where I spent a couple of days.KK>Labuan 2-3hrs?? can't rememberLabuan>Brunei 1.5 hrs then bus into BSB 20-30 mins.Yes, they speak English at Sutera. I had to pay in advance.

Thread 2 - 22 Oct 2006

Can anyone recommend a good tour operator for climbing Mt. Kinabalu? Will most likely be on my own (26f) so a good, reliable tour operator would be good.

Answer from others

Reply 1- u can try this .last year , this agent help me arrange everything from KK town to Mt.Kinabalu..they charge us Rm360 per person for 2 day 1 nite packages include 4 meals , transport return from KK to entrance and room with attach bathroom in laban rata.if u are non- malaysian , they will charge extra may be more than Rm50...http://www.exotic-adventure.com

Reply 2 - Just do it yourself, it ain't that difficult to do it on your own. The main thing that you need to have is a bed to spend the night in Laban Rata

Reply 3 - Thanks for the info.No. 1 - Hey wow that's pretty cheap. KK - is that Kota Kinabalu? Anyways, if it is, it's still pretty cheap compared to everything else I've been looking at. No. 2 - Well if I do end up going to SEA, it'll be my first time backpacking on my own, Thailand seems fine, but a mountain on my own is pretty intimidating just coz I've not done a "big" climb yet. Kili's supposed to be my first one next year.Anyways, since you guys have already climbed could you give me more info about gear and stuff? I'm also trying to buy gear for my Kili climb so will need things like thermal underwear - do you need that for Mt. Kinabalu? And what are summit rates like? Was suprised to hear it can be done overnight or in a day.

Reply 4 - yup, what i meant was mt. kinabalu :), you dont need thermal underwear for this climb but a head lamp would be useful, a cheap one would do the trick. i cant really remember the rates already but i remember paying less than myr200 for the whole trip in 2003.

Reply 5 - I have clilmbed both Kili and Kinabalu and unfortunately they dont really compare gear wise. you might as well get a decent head lamp as you could use that on both climbs and possibly a day pack as well. As written above, you dont really need thermals on kinabalu. It is cold but nothing like Kili. You wll also need warmer shoes on Kili as on Kinabalu you can just wear anytyhing with some decent grip. The first time I climbed Kinabalu I just had on jogging shoes, the next time, cross country running shoes. Also as written above, you dont need a travel agency, unless things have changed, u have to have a guide anyway and you can hire someone at the gate. The trickiest part of the organisation part is getting a berth at the Labun Rata Hut If you can arrange that, everything else will be fine.

Reply 6 - Absolutely no need for a tour operator.Just go to the gate and pay for a guide -- it's mandatory. You can get one for yourself, or share with someone else.You might want to book your lodging at the top where you can rest before going to the summit. I recommend Laban Rata; it's the best built of all huts up there, and some rooms even have heaters. In other huts, there is a mad scramble for blankets and mattresses. Get to the gate no later than 10 a.m. unless you're a fast walker. Starting the climb at 10 a.m. can get you to the hut at 3 or 4 p.m. which gives you just enough time to rest and get 6 hours of sleep.Your guide (they have their own sleeping area) will wake you up at 12 midnight for the climb to the summit, in order to get a good view of the sunrise. Nothing stops you, though, from doing it at a later time. (Except, perhaps, transport considerations -- buses out of Kinabalu National Park to anywhere do not come frequently.) I don't know when you're climbing, but layers are always good -- undershirt, shirt, thick fleece and windbreaker should be good. Bring an extra shirt if you like. Normal hiking pants are okay, but bring light termals just in case.There will be some steep parts that have fixed ropes -- if you like, bring thin gloves to prevent rope burn.Bring a headlamp so that if the skies are dark, you don't have to rely on other's lights. A headlamp (as opposed to a flashlight) also frees up your hands for when you need to hold on to the rope.Bring lots of water and some snacks. No need to worry about food, as there is a restaurant at Laban Rata that's open for early dinner and the midnight climb.

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Langkawi, Kedah - 99 Islands

Langkawi island is an archipelago of 99 islands lying in the north western coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The exact location of these tropical islands is at the site where the Straits of Malacca meets the waters of the Andaman Seas.The largest of these islands is called Langkawi Island and is bigger than the Penang Island.The other islands in this group are Island of Pregnant Maiden (Pulau Dayang Bunting), Lion Island (Pulau Singa Besar) and Beras Basah Island.The smallest of these islands are atolls roughly the size of an ordinary house!
Langkawi is coined from the Malay words Lang and Kawi. Lang is a brown eagle and Kawi is a local manganese stone.The ancient fishermen must have seen eagles flying clutching the manganese stones! A giant monument of a brown eagle clutching the manganese stone greets all visitors to Langkawi near the Kuah Jetty.The main tourist attractions of Langkawi Island is its virgin white sandy beaches.The beaches have very gentle continental slope and the water is crystal clear.
This island is unique in the sense that it has so many legendsand myths associated with it.Langkawi Island is therefore also called Pulau Lagenda or Legendary Island.The most talked about legend is that of Mahsuri who is said to have laid a curse on this island for seven generations.Luckily the period of this curse is over now and Langkawi Island is fast becoming an internationally recognised tourist destination. The government of Malaysia has declared the entire Langkawi Island as a duty free zone. Hence this island is also termed Duty Free Island.All goods sold in this island are exempted from government tax.Therefore this Legendary Island is a haven for the shoppers.You only need to stay in Langkawi for a minimum of 48 hours to take back home a reasonable amount of tax free goods.

Telaga Tujuh

Located in the north-western corner of Pulau Langkawi, Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) is a geological marvel. The waterfall is so named because its cascading water is broken by a series of seven natural pools. The lush green forest that surrounds the waterfall adds a mystical touch to the natural splendor. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to the waterfall to bathe and frolic.

Tanjung Rhu

Tanjung Rhu lies on the northern cape of Pulau Langkawi. Aptly named for its abundance of casuarinas, its enchanting beach affords magnificent views of nearby islands which can be reached at low tide on foot, an experience that is not to be missed.A short journey by boat from Tanjung Rhu brings you to the doorstep of Gua Cherita (Cave of Legends). As its name implies, the cave is steeped in a fabled tale of mystery and romance. On the walls of the cave can be seen ancient writing which has yet to be deciphered.

Beaches

Pantai Kok, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Datai and Burau BayIdyllic beaches such as Pantai Kok, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Datai and Burau Bay offer carefree sun-filled days and quiet evening strolls. First-class accommodation in modern hotels or captivating chalets is available. A wide range of exciting water-sports provides fun and thrills for the energetic. Restaurant outlets in the hotels and outdoors serve a variety of appetizing cuisine.

Tasik Dayang Bunting

Nestled amidst lush forested hill on an island south of Pulau Langkawi is Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), the largest lake in Langkawi. The outline of hills and rocky outcrops on one side of the lake resembles the shape of a pregnant maiden lying on her back. However, the name of both the island and lake is attributed to the legend of a lovely fairy princess who married an earthly prince. Her first child died shortly after birth. She was so sad and depressed that she buried the child in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Before she returned to her celestial abode, she blessed the waters so that any childless maiden who bathed in the lake would conceive thereafter.Legend of Tasik Dayang Bunting - The favorite bathing pool of a celestial princess named Mambang Sari was said to be Tasik Dayang Bunting (lake of the pregnant maiden). A prince, Mat Teja, fell madly in love with her and tricked her into marrying him. It did not take her long to reciprocate his love and so could not bear to return to her celestial home. Sadly, their child died from a mysterious illness at the age of seven days. Distraught, the grieving Mambang Sari left the child's body in the lake and returned to her heavenly abode. Today, some believe barren women who bathe in this lake will be endowed with a child. Many have claimed to be successful.

Pulau Payar Marine Park

The Pulau Payar Marine Park is situated in the northern part of the Straits of Melaka, 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi and encompasses the islands of Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca which are surrounded by coral reefs. The marine park teems with a fascinating diversity of marine life and vegetation.Many endangered species of fishes and marine organisms live within the sanctuary. Measuring 2 km long and ? km wide, Pulau Payar is the most popular of the islands as its sheltered waters are ideal for snorkeling, diving and swimming. Among the enchanting dive spots is the "Coral Garden", an area covered with bright, multi-hued soft corals.There are several sandy beaches on Pulau Payar Island for picnics as well as hiking trails for those who wish to explore the island. Just off the beach, one can indulge in the thrilling experience of feeding baby sharks. Facilities include gazebos, picnic tables, barbeque pits and restrooms at selected areas. There is also a Visitor's Center that provides information about the marine park. Visitors can get to Pulau Payar from the Kuah jetty point by catamaran or speed boat. The catamaran takes about 45 minutes to get to Pulau Payar while the speed boat takes an hour. It is advisable to book the catamaran service a day before trip.

Kuah

Kuah is the main town located on the south-eastern tip of Pulau Langkawi. It is the take-off point to the neighboring islands. The name "Kuah" is a Malay word meaning "gravy" and is associated with an ancient legend of two battling giants who overturned a gigantic pot of curry at the spot where the town now stands. Once was a rustic town with a few streets, present day, Kuah is a thriving center of modern hotels and shopping-cum-business complexes, but without the overcrowding and bustle of modern cities. Kuah is a duty free shopping haven with a wide variety of goods sold at attractive prices and its restaurants offer excellent culinary delights, especially fresh seafood.

Makam Mahsuri

With its fabled and historical past, Langkawi is a treasure trove for visitors. Among many significant sites on the island that have been preserved for posterity is Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri's Mausoleum) about 12 kilometers from Kuah. This shine was erected in honor of Mahsuri, a beautiful maiden who was unjustly accused of adultery. According to legend, she bled white blood at her execution as a sign of her innocence. In her dying breath, she laid a curse on the island that it would remain barren for seven generations. Fact or fiction, seven generations have since passed and today, Langkawi is a flourishing tourist destination.Opening hours: Daily, 7.30 am - 6 pm go.

Air Hangat Village

The Air Hangat Village is sited on four acres of land about 14 kilometers northwest of Kuah. This modern complex includes a 3-tier hot spring fountain, an 18-meter long hand-carved river stone mural depicting the legends that enshroud this location and souvenir shops. Visitors can witness the making of local handicrafts and cultural performances.Opening hours: Daily, 9 am - 6 pm.

Anna & The King Gallery

Situated amidst lush tropical greenery at Oriental Village the Anna and The King Gallery is one of the island's latest attractions. In 1999, 20th Century Fox commissioned the construction of this magnificent and expensive movie set for the making of the film "Anna and the King".

Oriental Village

Overlooking beautiful Burau Bay in Langkawi, the Oriental Village is one of the region's most unique shopping, cultural and culinary destinations. Specially designed to provide a new concept in resort duty free shopping, the Oriental Village also houses fine themed restaurants, reflecting Asia's culinary delights. The village offers shopping buffs a bewildering range of international designer labels and local products. Bold displays of culture and fashion and fascinating handicraft demonstrations by skilled craftsmen add to the enjoyment of shopping here. A delightful Inn completes the village concept while cultural and theatre performances enhance the Oriental theme that encompasses the village. Indeed, a blend of the traditional and modern intertwine with the local culture will provide a unique experience for the visitor. Apart from excellent restaurants, a specially designed food court offers a variety of local fare. The Inn and the Club Bar provide an excellent rest stop for refreshments.Opening hours: Daily, 10 am - 10 pm.

Underwater World Langkawi

The underwater World Langkawi, a marine showcase featuring both fresh and salt water fish and other forms of marine life, is a must-see attraction. Located at Pantai Cenang, a popular beach on the island, this aquarium features more than 5,000 types of marine life, exhibited in more than 100 tanks of different sizes. The highlight is a giant tank housing large marine species such as sharks, stingrays, groupers and green turtles, with a 15-metre tunnel for visitors to walk through and enjoy a spectacular view of the exhibits. Underwater gardens of weeds and sea plants together with exotic fishes and exhibits of fossils and shells add to the range of interesting sights. Latest actraction is their penguins. Opening hours: Daily, 10 am - 6 pm.

Island Cruises

Going on island cruises is a great way to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery of Langkawi as your boat weaves through the watery passageways between the islands. A round trip, which takes about four hours, includes Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Beras Basah and Pulau Singa Besar. Boats can be taken from Marble Beach and Pantai Cenang.

Dataran Lang

Dataran Lang (Eagle Square) is Langkawi's most prominent landmark for visitors arriving by sea.Situated near the Kuah jetty, the main attraction of the square is the magnificent statue of the reddish brown eagle majestically poised for flight. According to local folklore, Langkawi derived its name from the eagle or "helang". In old Malay, "kawi" denotes reddish brown, hence, Langkawi means reddish brown eagle! The square is beautifully landscaped and features scenic ponds, bridges, covered terraces, restaurants and barrel vaults made of bricks. Its close proximity to the sea and the soft breezes make it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and a tranquil setting for dining in the cool evenings.The square is beautifully illuminated at night and presents a dramatic scene as you approach the island by sea. Indeed, the majestic eagle is strategically positioned to welcome visitors to Langkawi.

Galeria Perdana

The Galeria Perdana at Kilim, about 11 km from Kuah, houses an impressive collection of over 2,500 state gifts and awards presented to the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and his wife, YBhg. Datin Seri Dr. Siti Hasmah bt. Mohd. Ali. The exhibits include fine crystal ware and gifts fashioned out of wood, leather, silver, copper, pewter, ceramics and glass. There are also musical instruments, Islamic art and craft, textiles and weapons. A part of the display includes various prototype cars and 4-wheel drive vehicles. The Galeria Perdana comprises of two-story buildings set within a beautifully landscaped garden. Photography is not allowed inside the gallery. Pictures of exhibits are available for sale at the souvenir shop. Opening hours: Daily, 10 am - 5 pm; Public/school holiday, 9 am - 6 pm; Friday, 10 am - 2:15 pm & 3 pm - 5 pm.

Laman Padi Langkawi

Laman Padi Langkawi is Langkawi's latest attraction that should not be missed for the agro-tourism lovers. Located at Pantai Cenang, in the vicinity of the island's popular beach resorts and just 10 minutes from the airport, Laman Padi Langkawi showcases the history, heritage and development of the nation's rice growing industry. Among the attractions is a rice museum displaying artifacts, charts and photographs showing the significance of Padi cultivation to the country. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a bird's eye view of the fields from a roof-top garden. For the uninitiated, try your hand at Padi planting using both traditional as well as modern methods of cultivation. There is also restaurant offering popular traditional Malay recipes and local delicacies which are prepared using rice as the main ingredient.Opening hours: Daily, 10 am - 6 pm.

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Gua Kelam in Perlis - Cave of Darkness

One of the most distinctive caves in Malaysia is a 370-metre long limestone cave near the small town of Kaki Bukit (literally 'foot hill') called Gua Kelam. Located about 33km north of Kangar, the state capital, Gua Kelam Recreational Park is popular for its enchanting 'cave walk' where you can enter from one end of the cave and come out a different end. Gua Kelam is located within the Perlis State Park which borders with the Nakawan Range of Thailand.
The only path in is via a suspension wooden bridge made of an eight-feet wide wooden walkway. This bridge links Kaki Bukit to the Wan Tangga Valley, a valley on the opposite end of Gua Kelam. Back in 1935, an Englishman saw the water pathway as a brilliant method of transporting tin ore from a mine located near the stream entrance through the underground cavern to Kaki Bukit.
Now, only locals and tourists make their way through the cave via a brightly illuminated wooden walkway inside the cave. You can still find remnants of the tin mine operation inside. As you make your way through the cave, the sound of a swirling dark subterranean stream below reverberates forming a concerto with the squeaking bats and dripping water from the stalactites. It may sound a bit spooky, after all this was once the home of Stone Age men.
How to get there?

By Bus
You can get to Kangar using several interstate, air-conditioned bus services such as Transnasional departing from the Puduraya bus station in Kuala Lumpur. These buses will stop at the Express Bus Station on Jalan Bukit Lagi in Kangar. From there, you can take a taxi or the HBR Express Bus to Kaki Bukit.
By Plane
There is no direct air service to Perlis. Visitors have to fly into Alor Setar (in Kedah) and then take a 45-minute taxi ride to Kangar. From Kangar, you can take a taxi or the HBR Express Bus to Kaki Bukit.
By Boat
You can also get to Kuala Perlis from Kuah jetty in Langkawi via ferry boats. The ride costs between RM12 to RM15 per person, one way and takes about 45 minutes.
Located at the northern-most edge of Peninsula Malaysia, the state of Perlis is easily accessible via the North-South Highway, which links Kangar, the state capital of Perlis, to Kuala Lumpur. From Kangar, you’ll need to drive north for another 36km to the small town of Kaki Bukit where Gua Kelam is located.

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