The name Pangkor may have originated from the Thai word Pang Ko which means ‘beautiful island’. However others believe it may have been a memorial to Pang Kui, a legendary Chinese adventurer said to have lent his skills in seamanship to the bands of pirates this island once sheltered.
Pangkor Island’s main attractions are undoubtedly the wonderful offerings of its pristine beaches on the western coastline. Named after a legendary lovely princess, Golden Sands Beach or Puteri Dewi is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Located on the northwest of Pangkor, this 1.2km stretch boasts warm turquoise waters fringed with tall swaying coconut palms. The beach here is ideal for sunbathing and recreational activities such as bird watching. Look out for hornbills said to roam the area.
Pasir Bogak Beach, a snorkeling site with an extensive reef and shallow waters, faces the channel between Pangkor and Pangkor Laut. Located nearby Pangkor town, this popular destination is a favorite haunt for picnickers due to its shady trees. Here, visitors can enjoy a kayak run or the simple pleasure of beachcombing.
Teluk Nipah is where tourists can enjoy both solitude and excitement by the beach. Take in the soothing lush greenery or browse the open-air stalls by the beach. A walk across to Giam Island at low tide will reward you with treasure trove of marine life.
Head to the Pulau Sembilan group of islands, 27km south of Pangkor Island for a superb diving experience. The nine islands (Sembilan means nine in Malay) are uninhabited with an abundance of colorful marine life.
Eating out in Pangkor is a delight as there are restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Alternatively, head to Pangkor town to enjoy fresh seafood.
Pangkor Laut Pangkor Laut is a world-renowned tropical island destination. A 20-minute boat ride from Pangkor Island, it boasts one of the finest beaches in the Straits of Malacca. Sunset cruises can be specially arranged upon request. Couples can choose to have dinner by Emerald Bay which affords scenic views for a truly romantic experience.
Pangkor Laut houses an exclusive resort named after the island. For those seeking complete rejuvenation, pamper yourself at the luxurious Spa Village.
Lumut Lumut is the staging point to Pangkor Island if you arrive by road or rail. Located 83km from Ipoh, the state capital, it is home to the country’s principal naval base and a port which services the hinterland. Teluk Batik, south of Lumut is popular for another fine beach with a golf course. The Lumut International Yacht Club is a stopover while sailing the Straits of Malacca.
Lumut is a 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Highway. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth.
Getting to Pangkor Island
By Sea – Pangkor Island is a 15-minute ferry ride from Lumut. There are departures every half hour.
By Air – The private carrier, Berjaya Air operates direct flights from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport nearby Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor.
For more pictures of Pangkor Island, please visit the following flickr photostream.
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Subject: Pulau Pangkor 
Wed Sep 16, 2009 1:10 pm
