Week 19 - 9th  May '99

Exploring Pangkor Island: A Tranquil Escape

 

This week, we found ourselves meandering along the southern Perak coastline, with Pangkor Island as our focal point. While it’s not a hub for thrill-seekers, the island offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, making it the perfect retreat from our usual focus on nature and adventure.

Sometimes, it’s essential to slow down and embrace a change of pace. A regular ferry ride whisked us to Pangkor Island, and immediately, the peaceful atmosphere enveloped us. Instead of scanning every corner for intriguing sights, we found ourselves leisurely deciding on a hotel for the night and contemplating how to make the most of our abundant free time.

Our traveling companions, Joyce and Khoo, took charge of the planning, ensuring we balanced relaxation and exploration. On the island’s busier eastern coast, the lively fishermen’s villages buzzed with commercial activity. On the other hand, the windward western coast boasted quiet, pristine beaches—an irresistible contrast.

We set our sights on Emerald Bay, an idyllic spot also known as Coral Bay. Its secluded charm and crystal-clear waters called to us. Another must-visit location was the iconic Pasir Bogak beach, a lively gathering point for visitors. These were three of the highlights prominently featured in tourist guides, and while it meant sharing the experience with other travelers, we didn’t mind.

Upon arrival, the serene beauty of the surroundings reaffirmed our decision to take this break. The tranquil setting seemed to demand relaxation, and we wholeheartedly obliged. I must apologize for the repetitive nature of the photos on this page—each picture was captured in quick succession, reflecting how much we cherished the views.

1 On the way to Pangkor  

There are 3 points the ferry stops Sungei Pinang Kechil and then for the locals Sungei Pinang Besar and lastly for the visitors Pangkor Jetty

2 This is the first Sungei Pinang kechil

3 Northern most edge of Bay

The "No name Beach"

4 Fantastic landscape

In the background that's Pangkor Laut Island

5 Mesmerised by the Rock Formations

6 Looking back, the background is Pasir Bogak

From left to right Coral beach and next to it Pantai Nipah   [I called it Emerald Bay}

7 One frame - our favourite boulders and the island

8 Looking back north to the area of the boulders where we were mooching

9 Beautiful bay and sand

10 In the compound of the Lin Je temple

11 On the Temple ground

12 Our Boulder 0Like a sail

13 This is Pasir Bogak

The couth-western corner where all commercial activities regard Island tours are transacted

14 The famous Pamgkor Laut Resort

These were the early times when the resort was relatively unknown. Scuttle boats were taking visitors across for isual tours. Later this place would be Out-of-bound for causal visitors. Entry was via the Pangkor arrival point on Booking basis

15 Getting ready for the evening

A much earned rest after having done the days' walking

16 Cannot miss out on the sunset scene This day not very dramatic.

 

18 Back to the eastern edge of Island the commercial and living area

19 Cottage industry

Drying fish fillets on platform hung out in front of the house

20 Sungei Pinang Besar

The ferry terminal for arrival and departure

21 The wet market

For this small settlement, they do not need a wet market for retail. This is more or less a wholesales market where catches were transacted

17 On the way out of  Pangkor

The last landing pier for visitors

In conclusion, the trip to Pangkor Island was a resounding success. Though we confined ourselves to Emerald Bay and a few nearby spots, the experience was deeply satisfying and met the purpose of our visit. It was a chance to pause, recharge, and appreciate the beauty around us.

For me, the highlight was the value of the memories we captured in our photographs. It was a great escape—refreshing, fulfilling, and free from the usual hustle of packed itineraries.

 

                      Khong's Travel Guide