Water usually has a calming effect on people - whether it's a babbling brook, a calm lake or a cascading waterfall - and these spots make ideal places for rest and relaxation. Those who like calm lakes can visit Pahang where Tasik Bera, the largest natural freshwater lake in Peninsular Malaysia, and Tasik Chini are located.
Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu, however, holds the record as being the largest manmade lake in South-east Asia. The lake also acts as Malaysia's largest rock-filled hydroelectric dam! The Paya Indah Wetland (Selangor) is also a lovely getaway where you can explore the wonders of nature. Once a barren land from years of tin mining and logging, this rehabilitated ecosystem is currently a habitat to lush vegetation and thriving wildlife.
Where to go
Batang Ai National Park, Sarawak
You can travel by boat up the rivers that flow into the lake or trek on the jungle trails looking for the wildlife. On your travels you can stay at Iban longhouses and sample their traditional way of life.
Kenyir Lake, Terengganu
Tasik Kenyir is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. With over 40 species of fish, it draws anglers from as far as Singapore.
Kundang Lake, Selangor
It's hard to believe that this was an abandoned tin mine, but Kundang Lake has been transformed into a recreational playground especially for watersports, 4WD and angling enthusiasts. It's a good picnic spot too.
Melati Lake, Perlis
Elevated concrete walkways over the lake provide vantage viewpoint of the clear water, floating lotus and massive limestone hills at the background.
Pulau Dayang Bunting (Dayang Bunting Island), Kedah
This island is famous for its large and beautiful lake, Tasik Dayang Bunting. Legend has it that any woman who couldn't conceived a child will be rewarded and blessed with one if she drank the water from this lake.
Ulu Muda Eco Park, Kedah
It remains one of the few places left where Tapirs are often sighted. If you want an alternative to Taman Negara, Ulu Muda is well worth exploring.
Bera Lake, Pahang
Tasik Bera is a sprawling mosaic of unique wetland ecosystems and diverse natural habitats, which lies camouflaged in a remote pocket of south-western Pahang.
Semenyih Dam, Selangor
The dam provides one of the most breathtaking sights in the country and is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Chini Lake, Pahang
Riddled with facts and fiction of a sunken ancient Khmer City with a mythical ‘naga’ (dragon), lurking deep below, Lake Chini remains an attraction for the nature lovers with a spirit of adventure.
