Terengganu may not ring a bell for many outside of Malaysia. But this state of Malaysia overlooking the South China Sea is bestowed with some of the finest island getaways that have grown popular among tourists in the recent years. The islands have the softest white sand beaches, azure blue water and breathtaking underwater coral gardens that help create an indelible holiday experience. Whether you are a person looking for a laid back beach vacation or an adventure seeker, the islands of Terengganu have something for all.

It is not only the islands that make Terengganu a sought after destination. It also has some beautiful mosques, colourful little towns and the nicest of locals that altogether make the whole experience memorable.

Itinerary

This is our itinerary to explore the best of Terengganu in 5 days including Pulau Redang and Pulau Perhentian islands. We decided to spend 2 nights at Pulau Redang and 1 night at Pulau Perhentian. But you could do the opposite or even add 1 more night to make it 2 nights at each of the islands. They are totally worth.

Day 1: Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Sultan Mahmud airport in Kuala Terengganu. Take a cab to the Shahbandar Jetty and catch the ferry to Pulau Redang Island. Join a snorkelling trip and rest of the day relax at the beach. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Visit two snorkelling spots around Pulau Redang and rest of the day relax at the beach. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Return back to Kuala Terengganu. Check out the local attractions and overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Drive to Kuala Besut and take the speedboat to Pulau Perhentian. Short hike to windmills and rest of the day at beach. Overnight at resort.

Day 5: Return back to Kuala Besut jetty. Drive to Kota Bahru airport and fly back to Kuala Lumpur.

How to reach

You can fly either to Sultan Mahmud Airport or Kota Bahru airport of Terengganu from Kuala Lumpur. Sultan Mahmud airport is closest to Kuala Terengganu and Pulau Redang whereas Kota Bahru airport is nearest for visiting Perhentian Islands. There are regular flights from Air Asia and Malaysian Airlines that ply between Kuala Lumpur and these two airports. Flying time is around one hour.

Places of Interest in Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu and is a fairly small city. It is not a typical tourist destination and is mostly used as transit to get in to the islands. But as we explored this little town adorned with colourful buildings, beautiful mosques and slender lanes full of artwork, we realised it is much more than just a transit point. Here are a few things you can do in Kuala Terengganu.

Explore China Town: China Town in Kuala Terengganu is located along the river and has a beautiful old world charm. You can spot heritage buildings, narrow lantern covered streets and Chinese food stalls everywhere. This area also has many small yet beautifully painted lanes to walk through.

Visit Crystal Mosque: This Mosque comes in the top places to see in Kuala Terengganu with its grand architecture and crystal like exterior. The mosque is built on water and has a beautiful park around it. Go here just before the sunset and you can see the domes of the mosque glittering with the last rays of the sun. The mosque stays open till 6pm in the evening. Remember to dress conservatively for your visit.

If time permits, you can also visit the following places.

Floating Mosque (Masjid Terapung)
Terengganu state museum
Islamic Civilisation Park (Taman Tamadun Islam)

Transport

Grab is the most convenient mode of transport and is easily available. You can also avail the tour bus service called Bas Kite (colourful buses with traditional Malay house facade) that start at regular intervals from the Kuala Terengganu bus terminal. You can alight at any attraction on the way and then take the next bus later. Read More…..