PULAU PAYAR
Skin diving on Pulau Payar |
South of Pulau Langkawi, the scenic island of Pulau Payar is a must-go for snorkelling buffs. The island, as well as the adjacent Pulau Segantang, Pulau Kaca and Pulau Lembu have been gazetted a marine park since 1985. South of Pulau Langkawi, the scenic island of Pulau Payar is a must-go for snorkelling buffs. The island, as well as the adjacent Pulau Segantang, Pulau Kaca and Pulau Lembu have been gazetted a marine park since 1985.
The stunning beauty of corals off Pulau Payar |
Corals of all shapes and sizes abound in the waters surrounding Pulau Payar. The idyllic island makes a perfect destination for swimming, snorkelling and underwater photograhing. The southwestern coast of the island is littered with rocks. The shallower water here is a breathtaking spot for snorkelling aptly called the Coral Garden where one can find rocks clad in a film of brightly coloured soft corals. The deeper water boasts dark green arborescent corals, seashells and a rich variety of aquatic lives.
Pulau Payar offers comprehensive facilities for family outings. Although the island does not have a hotel, tourists can camp here if prior permission from the Fisheries Department has been obtained.
The speedboat trip from Langkawi or Kuala Kedah to Pulau Payar takes about one hour. Arrangements to go to the marine park on adjacent islands can be made with local travel agencies.
