HOME UNDERWATER WORLD TAMAN NEGARA TIOMAN GENTING
On the southeastern
side of the Peninsular Malaysia there is a group of 64 islands, of which Tioman
Island is the biggest one (+/- 350 km2) . Other known islands in this region
are : Seri Bulat, Sembilang, Tulai, Sibu, Chebeh, Labas and Renggis. Tioman
lies about 56 kilometers of the coast in the federal state of Pahang , together with Perhentian Island and
Redang Island .
Tioman is the most popular island on the eastern side of the peninsular . The
island is especially known for its wonderful diving and snorkeling
possibilities .
The
island of Tioman is covered in thick jungle ; the edges of the island are
populated . Because Tioman is part of a Marine Park, all visitors have to pay a
marine park entrance fee of RM5 upon arrival.
Diving
Tioman
is well known as a diving and snorkeling paradise , just like Redang
and Perhentian in the north of Peninsular Malaysia . Usually you pay
around RM90 for each dive (this includes use of equipment and such) .
Snorkeling
One
of the most famous - places to go snorkel in Tioman is at Coral Island
(also known as Pulau Tulai). The attraction on this island is
definitely the white sandy beach with soft powdery texture and crystal
blue water that is mesmerizing to the eyes. Although there are many
corals in this island, but there are many types of fishes in this area
that you can swim with and explore. The island
is uninhabited and is being well kept by the management.
Non-divers
can enjoy a bit of snorkeling at one of the many snorkeling sites
around the island. Most resorts have a house reef ; where you can
snorkel right infront of your cabana.
Snorkeling equipment can be rented at most of the
dive shops and also at many resorts. It is not that common anymore to
get fins as too many tourists decided to stand on the precious corals.
Also, some required you to wear a life vest which forces you to stay
above water at all times (again to conserve the corals reefs). Some
great places to snorkel around Tioman are Paya , Tekek and Ayer Batang .
Attractions and activites at Tioman Island
Though
main activities around Tioman Island are diving and snorkeling, there
are many other nice things to do during stay at the island. Below a
list with attractions on the island :
- Tioman is popular among those that like fishing. Deep-sea fisihing trips can be arranged at many places on the island.
- There
are almost no roads on Tioman; but there are quite a few jungle tracks.
These are perfect for light jungle treks. Two popular treks are from
Tekek to Juara (2 hours) and from Tekek all the way to Monkey Bay.
- Great
beaches are: Genting Beach, Tekek Beach and Salang Beach. At these
beaches there are aquatic sports operators (kayaking, surfing,
wakeboarding and jet skiing).
- Tioman
have many waterfalls that you can visit. Some are easily accessible,
others al light trek or a short boat ride. One of the most popular
waterfalls on Tioman Island is the Mukut Waterfall , expecially during
weekends locals hang out here to relax with their friends or families.