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Tioman
Island, Pahang
About 56km
off the coast of Pahang lies Tioman Island, an alluring holiday paradise in
the South China Sea. Acclaimed as one of the best island getaways in the
world, Tioman was the location of the Hollywood musical, 'South Pacific' in
1959.
According to legend, this island is the final resting place of a mythical
dragon princess. The warm waters and good visibility make Tioman a paradise
for divers. Discover astounding sights such as colourful Gorgonian sea fans,
Staghorn corals, nudibranchs and beautifully sculptured sea sponges.
Snorkellers can delight in swimming alongside huge Napoleon Wrasse, Golden
Striped Trevally, Bumphead Parrotfish and shoals of Fusiliers.
This island is an idyllic spot for leisurely days under the sun. Swim in its
emerald waters, enjoy a stroll by the beach or be lulled to sleep by the
sound of the waves. There are several villages scattered around the
coastline, the larger ones being Salang, Tekek, Genting, Paya and Juara.
Each village offers a different and unique atmosphere. Tioman's verdant
greenery is home to a splendid variety of plants and small animals,
including butterflies, monitor lizards, deer and monkeys. Its flora and
fauna have been featured in National Geographic's documentaries.
The island's granite formations make for excellent rock-climbing
expeditions. The more adventurous can attempt to scale the sheer cliff face
of the legendary Gunung Nenek Semukut or Dragons Horns. Berjaya Tioman
Beach, Golf & Spa Resort offers a luxurious stay amidst a backdrop of
rolling hills and scenic views.
Key Tips
If you like hiking, you should try the beautiful cross-island hike from the
village of Tekek on the west to Juara on the east. It can be done in an easy
day and takes in both jungle and beach views of both sides of Tioman.
How to get there
By Road
Access the Tebrau Highway from Johor Bahru and go to Mersing via Kota Tinggi.
Access the Karak Highway from Kuala Lumpur through Temerloh, Kuantan, Pekan,
Kuala Rompin,Tanjung Gemuk to Mersing. Alternatively take the PLUS Highway
from Kuala Lumpur via Seremban, Bahau, Muadzam Shah, Kuala Rompin, Tanjung
Gemuk to Mersing.
By Public Transport
Express buses are available from Singapore at Newton Circus Court and Jalan
Sultan Bus Station. From Kuala Lumpur, buses and taxis are available at
Puduraya Bus Station. Buses leave at noon and 11.30 pm while taxis leave at
any time. Estimated travel time 5-6 hours.
By Sea
Tioman is accessible by boat from Tanjung Gemok in Pahang and Mersing in
Johor. Journey time is approximately 1.5 hours. It can also be reached by a
4-hour ferry ride from the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore.
By Air
Berjaya Air operates daily direct 45-minute flights to Tioman from Kuala
Lumpur and Singapore.
Accommodation Overview
A wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels
to 5-star hotels. Most of these can be found on the island's west coast.
SOURCE: TOURISM MALAYSIA
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