Top 5 things to do in Terengganu, Malaysia

Travelling Malaysia: Top 5 things to do in Terengganu

Sarah Khan

01 Nov 2016

updated the Tuesday, November 1, 2016

1/5
Kenyir Lake
Lake Kenyir is the biggest lake within Malaysia and a popular attraction in Terengganu among the locals, golfers, anglers and as a spot for company team-building activities.
This lake is actually a man-made lake (and the biggest manufactured lake in Southeast Asia) and was constructed between 1978 and 1985 to provide water for a dam. The lake borders the popular National Park Taman Negara and you can find around 340 small, largely uninhabited islands, waterfalls, caves and wildlife to be explored.
2/5
Terengganu State Museum
The Terengganu State Museum, spanning 27 hectares, is not only the largest museum in Malaysia but also the largest in Southeast Asia. It was established in 1976 and was built in the quaint, traditional Terengganu Malay architectural design known as rumah tele.
The history of the museum began with the discovery of the Terengganu inscription stone in Kampung Buloh in 1902. The stone was said to be the earliest to be found in the the Jawi scripture (Malay language written in Arabic Script, instead of alphabets). Today, the galleries and exhibitions in the museum are heavily focused on Malay and Terengganu culture, although they do also feature non-culturally related exhibits too.
3/5
Redang Island
Redang is an island that lies off the coast of Terengganu. It is famous for its beautiful, crystal clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and the tropical fish that inhabit its reefs.
Most of the accomodation on the island are largely resorts, and it has a more upmarket image compared to the neighbouring Perhentian Islands that caters more to the backpacking crowd. The largest beach on the island is Pasir Panjang, which has a few resorts and great snorkeling options, although the waters here are choppier.
4/5
Crystal Mosque
Located on a man-made island in Terengganu called Pulau Wan Man, the Crystal Mosque is located within the grounds of the Islamic Heritage Park. It was officially opened in 2008 by the current Sultan of Terengganu and is widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful mosques.

The mosque's stunning architecture is made of steel and glass, which results in its glistening, crystal-like appearance particularly when contrasting against the evening sky. Unlike the other more traditionally designed mosques in the country, this mosque bears a more distinctly contemporary style injected with both Moorish and Gothic elements. In the evenings, the mosque comes alive with an enthralling display of lights that switches the colour of its domes and minarets to various colours like pink, green, yellow and blue - a truly unique mosque experience and a visual spectacle for the eyes.
5/5
Lang Tengah Island
Pulau Lang Tengah (translates to 'Eagle resting on the middle island') is situated between Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang. As it has a more limited accommodation option, the island offers a tranquil getaway where you can snorkel and dive in the protected east coast marine park sanctuary.

Visit the pristine, beautiful beaches of Redang Island or marvel at the glittering Crystal Mosque in Terengganu.

Located in north-eastern Peninsular Malaysia, Terengganu is slightly off the usual tourist track and may not be as famous as the states of Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Langkawi. However, don’t underestimate what this state can offer your travel-hungry soul: it’s definitely not short of breathtakingly beautiful beaches and landscapes, or cultural heritage sites to visit.

If you love exploring cultural sites as much as we do, the glittering Crystal Mosque in Terengganu is definitely worth a visit, promising a visual spectacle for your eyes, particularly in the evenings against the night sky. Or, if island-hopping is more up your alley, expand your list of stunning Malaysian islands to visit and head to the glistening turquoise waters and pristine beaches of Redang Island.

If you’re planning a trip to Terengganu soon, or simply want to discover what else there is to see in Malaysia besides the usual tourist-y spots, head up to the gallery above and get inspired for your next trip!

Sarah Khan

Photos: Getty Images

Eat, Pray, Love: Southeast Asia’s 5 most blissful retreats

8 Most scenic towns in Malaysia you simply need to visit

Braids & Ponytails: 25 Easy hairstyles for women with...