Tasik Kenyir, Trengganu (Lake)

Kenyir Lake

Tasik Kenyir is the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, spanning 260,000 hectares. It is also Malaysia's largest rock filled hydroelectric dam. When the area was flooded, most of the hills were above the water level, thus creating about 340 man-made islands.The rainforest that cradles the area furnishes the lake with an incredible assortment of flora and fauna. These include rare ferns, exotic orchids, hornbills, elephants, and panthers. It is also home to more than 8,000 species of flowers, 2,500 species of plants and trees, 800 species of orchids, and 300 species of fungus. 

It is a popular retreat for nature lovers as it is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. It is also an anglers haven as the lake is home to hundreds of species of freshwater fish like Baung,Toman,Kelisa,Lampam and Kelah. Surrounded by a vast tropical jungle, the lake area is a popular spot for angling, boating, canoeing, jungle- trekking, 4WD driving and golfing. 

Accommodation varies from a 3 star resort, chalets on the islands, floating resort or houseboats where rooms and meals are provided. The houseboat travels to waterfalls and fishing sites providing an exhilarating adventure for nature lovers. Tasik Kenyir is also a gateway to Taman Negara through Tanjung Mentong. 

How to get there

By Car

There are several alternative routes to go to Kenyir Lake. If you travel by car from Kuala Lumpur, head to Ajil through Karak Highway to Jerengau-Jabor Highway then onwards to Kenyir. Another alternative route is to take the coastal road through Kemaman, Dungun, Kuala Terengganu and then on to Kenyir Lake.

By Air

Fly with either Malaysian Airlines or Air Asia. They operate regular flights to the Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). From the Sultan Mahmud Airport, you could take a taxi straight to TasikKenyir. The fare is about RM 60.00, or if you are heading to Kuala Berang the fare is about RM30.00.

By Boat

There are a number of boat operators at the Gawi Jetty, who can take you using their fibre glass or double decked houseboats, across Tasik Kenyir. It is advisable to make prior bookings. Some travel agencies offer tour packages.