Pulau Kapas

A little island not more than 20 minutes away by boat from the sleepy village of Marang, Pulau Kapas(Cotton Island) basks idyllically as it has for over 270 million years. This little haven in the South China Sea and just off the Terengganu coast is a pleasant getaway for the locals during weekends. During the weekdays, it can be surprisingly quiet as throngs of visitors depart home to their 9-to-5 jobs and businesses.

Pulau Kapas is a small island, just over 2km long and 1km at its widest point. Since it is so close - only 6km from the mainland, visitors seldom stay overnight. For those who prefer to spend a longer time on the island, there are a variety of accommodations available on the island best suited to most travellers although non rivalling exclusive resorts establishments. Most resorts are clustered together on two strips of white sandy beaches facing the mainland, whereas the rest of the island is largely forested harbouring lots of small mammals, birds, insects and reptiles.

Pulau Perhentian

No island could have been given a better name than Pulau Perhentian. Far away from the urban sprawl of civilisation lie these two gems, off Peninsular Malaysia's east coast. No five-star resort to call home. No motorbikes and tuk-tuks in sight. Just tranquillity in every nook and cranny. If you ever wanted to get away from it all, this is the place. Pulau Perhentian consists of two islands 21km from Terengganu. Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Pulau Perhentian Besar.

Gunung Ledang, Mt. Ophir

Formerly known as Mt. Ophir, Gunung Ledang is shrouded in mystery and legend. Besides being a favourite hill retreat for mountaineers and holidaymakers, Gunung Ledang Recreational Forest is also said to be the home of the legendary Puteri Gunung Ledang, a woman who captured the heart of the Sultan of Malacca.

Legends aside, there is also the Sagil waterfall at the base of the mountain, which is a favourite picnic spot. Here, the waters are refreshing and clean, while the environment is tranquil and peaceful.

There are also facilities for visitors like campgrounds, food stalls, changing rooms and so on. There are also tracks for those looking to hike up Gunung Ledang.