Top 7 Things to Do in Pangkor
Get ready to discover the best of Pangkor Island! Known for having the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia as well as world-class resorts and hotels, this island will make you feel like you’re in paradise.
These amazing natural landscapes and world-class establishments will allow you to engage in various fun activities. From swimming in pristine beaches to sampling tasty food and going on exciting adventures, here are the top things you can do in Pangkor:
Visit the Ruins of the Dutch Colonial Fort from the 17th Century
Location: Teluk Gedung, Pulau Pangkor, 32300 Perak, Perak Malaysia
Operating Hours
- Daily 8AM-6PM
The Dutch Colonial Fort is an ancient bastion on Pangkor Island, Malaysia, and it links the island to Dutch efforts to control trade in the area.
Constructed in 1670, the fort, initially named Fort Dindingh, safeguarded valuable tin from the Sultanate of Perak. It’s positioned near the ocean, and the Dutch Fort’s three brick walls stand testament to history.
What stands today is a reconstruction of the 17th-century fort, meticulously restored using original stone remnants. The site now hosts a serene park and souvenir shops, welcoming visitors to its enduring story.
It’s truly a cherished attraction on Pangkor Island, a living record of trade, conflict, and resilience.
As you explore its walls, you’ll uncover the layers of history that have shaped Pangkor’s identity, all set against a backdrop of a beautifully manicured garden and the serene waves on a nearby beach.
It’s definitely worth including in your Pangkor itinerary, as this spot won’t demand much of your time!
It’s an experience that combines cultural enrichment with picturesque surroundings, making the Dutch Fort a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Explore the ancient Sacred Rock
Location: Batu Bersurat, Kampung Teluk Gedung, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Batu Bersurat, also known as Sacred Rock or Tiger Rock, is a big stone on Pangkor Island with writing made by Dutch soldiers in the 1700s.
These soldiers were from the Dutch Fort, located about 200 meters away, during the years 1743-1748. The year 1743 is carved on the rock five times.
This rock is seen as a historic symbol, and a modern roof has been built over it to protect it from the weather. The protective modern roof added a touch of preservation to the site, ensuring that the weather wouldn’t erode the testament to history
It’s called Sacred Rock, Inscribed Rock, or Tiger Rock because many people think that the main drawing shows a tiger hurting a boy.
This idea has led to different stories and legends about a tiger that supposedly harmed the son of an important Dutch officer from the nearby Dutch Fort.
The blend of history and mystery at Batu Bersurat is an experience you won’t soon forget as the connection to the past will truly come to life before your eyes.
Unwind by the Beach
Pasir Bogak Beach
Location: Pasir Bagok Beach, Jalan Pasir Bagok, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
The famous Pasir Bogak beach is a mesmerizing gem that holds its own charm on Pangkor Island.
The moment you set foot on its 1.5 km stretch of soft, white sand and gaze out at the clear waters, you’re greeted by a breathtaking panorama that sets the scene for relaxation and enjoyment.
The crescent-shaped shoreline, surrounded by swaying coconut palm trees, is truly a naturalistic spot where you can relax. The water itself is remarkably calm, making it an inviting haven for those seeking solace in the gentle embrace of the sea breeze.
Due to the gradual slope of the seabed and the lack of strong currents. It’s also notably shallow, making it a perfect getaway for families with young ones.
Sitting at the edge of the beach, you’re treated to an enchanting view of the Pangkor Laut Resort. It’s an exclusive hideaway that seems like a world of its own, miles away from Pangkor Island.
The beach isn’t just about relaxation; it’s a playground for adventure enthusiasts too.
The shoreline is dotted with various water sports facilities, offering an array of options such as snorkeling, windsurfing, fishing, sailing, canoeing, and jet skiing.
Whether you’re a local seeking weekend excitement or a tourist eager to immerse yourself in the local scene, Pasir Bogak Beach caters to all.
Local Tip:
- Try the fish crips, barbecued fish and squid, and of course, satay, which you can buy in the many open-air food stalls that line the beach!
Teluk Nipah Beach
Location: Teluk Nipah, Jalan Pasir Bagok,32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Teluk Nipah Beach holds a special place in the hearts of the island’s residents and is where the vibrancy of Pangkor truly comes alive. This beach is on the west side and it faces the sparkling waters of the Strait of Malacca and is a hub of activity for us locals.
The white sandy beach and clear blue water aren’t just pretty; they’re where you can do many activities too! This includes snorkeling, diving, water skiing, and picnics with friends and family.
What makes Teluk Nipah Beach special is that it’s still natural and wild. It’s a place where you’ll get to see animals like rhinoceros birds, monkeys, and big lizards just living their lives.
Meanwhile, if you look out to the sea, you’ll see two islands, Mentagor and Giam! There, you can paddle out on kayaks to explore the empty beaches and see the cool marine life underwater.
Coral Beach
Location: Coral Beach, Jalan Pasir Bogak, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Spanning just 500 meters in length, Coral Beach is a small beach that holds the coveted title of Pangkor Island’s prime snorkeling spot. This is because beneath the surface of the water lies a vibrant underwater world.
From luminescent mollusks to exotic algae varieties, and even curious holothurians, Coral Beach’s underwater ecosystem is a great way to explore the ocean’s wonders!
As you take a leisurely stroll along the northern end of the beach, you will find an unexpected treasure – the exquisite Lin Je Kong Temple, a testament to the island’s diverse cultural heritage.
As day fades into evening, the beach becomes a canvas for mesmerizing sunsets! The allure of Coral Beach is so strong that overnight picnics have become a beloved tradition among island residents and visitors alike.
Giam Island
Location: Giam Island, Coral Beach, Jalan Pasir Bagok, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Giam Island rests a mere 500-700 meters from Nipah Bay and a short 500 meters from Coral Beach. It isn’t just a geographical neighbor, it’s a treasure trove waiting to be discovered!
It’s one of the two prized smaller islands that grace the front of Teluk Nipah, renowned as an ideal snorkeling destination. The other companion in this underwater adventure is Mentangor Island.
Families find solace in Giam Island’s inviting waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking against the stunning backdrop of the sea.
Walking across the island, it’s common to spot fellow tourists eagerly searching for the vibrant corals and aquatic life that live in its surrounding waters.
The allure of colorful seaweeds, healing sea cucumbers sold in town, and the occasional starfish encounter makes Giam Island a haven for nature enthusiasts.
If you’re up for it, scuba diving near the island unveils a magical realm filled with marine life, from playful clownfish to graceful turtles and intricate coral reefs.
Local Tip:
- Timing is key! Try capturing close-up shots of the sea creatures in Giam Island when the tide is low so you have a better chance of snapping the perfect pic!
- Wearing protective footwear like dive shoes is a must for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- It’s wise to consult boat operators for the best snorkeling spots and to identify areas with many sea urchins, which can be a potential hazard.
Teluk Segadas Beach
Also affectionately referred to as the “virgin beach,” Teluk Segadas Beach is a secluded gem waiting to be explored! It’s an elusive paradise, shielded by the challenge of access.
The absence of a direct road means that reaching this untouched haven requires a 20 to 25-minute jungle trek through rolling hills.
The journey, though slightly demanding, is part of the adventure, and is arguably the best part of the whole experience. Once you reach the bay, you’ll be greeted by serene, shallow and inviting waters.
Among the local community, this beach is renowned as a campsite, a place where you can immerse yourself in nature’s embrace for a couple of days.
Exploring Teluk Segadas Beach is definitely a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the simplicity of the land and sea.
Local Tip:
- Teluk Segadas Beach doesn’t offer the convenience of water and food stalls, so it’s wise to come prepared with your own supplies.
- While the journey is immensely rewarding, please explore the Teluk Segadas beach with caution. Going to this beach without a local guide is not advised.
Feed the Hornbills at Sunset View Chalet
Location: Lot 4461, Teluk Nipah, perak, P.Pangkor, Malaysia
Contact Details: +60 5-685 5448
Hornbills find their jungle haven on Pangkor Island. You can see this for yourself when at the Sunset View Chalet, where dozens of these captivating creatures gracefully descend around 6:30pm.
These hornbills and the guesthouse owners have been sharing a ritual for several years and you can take part in it!
First, you must wait when the clock nears 6:00pm, as this is when the Oriental Pied Hornbills and Lesser Hornbills will perch nearby! Then, you can offer banana chunks to these charming creatures to complete the ritual.
Get a Slice of Local Culture at Pangkor Town
Location: East coas of Pulao, Pangkor
Nestled along the east coast of Pulau Pangkor, Pangkor Town holds a special place in the heart of the island. It’s a bustling hub that serves as the island’s business center, where local life shines bright.
Walking through the town’s narrow streets, you can’t help but be struck by its charming simplicity, as if it’s frozen in time! Here you can shop for unique souvenirs and dried seafood, and enjoy delicious food from stalls.
The town’s markets offer interesting things like shirts and items made from sea shells, which are fun to find.
As for food, you’ll discover a mix of flavors because of different cultures coming together. It’s not just about Chinese, Indian, or Malay food – there’s something new to try.
You should also check out the dried fish factory in the main town. This is where they dry and prepare seafood.
The most famous one is dried anchovies, called ikan bilis in the local language.
Local Tip:
- Try the satay fish, dried squid, and jellyfish! Although the smell isn’t the best, the taste definitely makes up for it!
Ride a Pangkor Pink Taxi Around the Island
If you’re thinking about a Pangkor day trip or just exploring the island for a few hours, the pink taxis are a convenient choice.
When you need a ride, you’ll spot the iconic pink taxis waiting to take you around.
You can hire one for a tour that lasts 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much you want to see. The cost starts at RM80, and you can find the prices in the taxi board photo below.
In just a couple of hours, you can visit many of the places listed here. It’s a smart way to see more of the island. Plus, these taxis have 12 seats, so they’re great for families or groups too.
Discover Pangkor’s Temples
Fu Lin Kong Temple
Location: Lot 3851, Sungai Pinang Besar, 32 300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Operating Hours
- Daily 6:30AM-10AM
The Fu Lin Kong Temple sits on Pangkor Island’s east coast. It’s the island’s biggest Taoist temple and holds significance for the local Chinese population who follow Taoist beliefs.
This temple is the heart of Taoist worship in Pangkor, making it a key spiritual center and a top tourist spot.
You’ll find this Taoist temple nestled at the base of Pangkor hill in the village of Sungai Pinang Besar, a Chinese settlement known as Kampung Cina.
With over a century of history, Fu Lin Kong Temple is adorned with large rocks and stones. It features a welcoming arch, a grand temple wall, and even a mini version of the Great Wall of China in its garden. Inside, you’ll also find Buddhist statues.
Aside from offering praise, people also come here for photos against the picturesque Pangkor backdrop.
Kali Amman Temple
Location:48, Jalan Besar, Sungai Pinang Besar, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Operating Hours
- Daily 6AM-9PM
Sri Pathirakaliamman Temple stands on the waterfront in Sungai Pinang Besar, Pangkor and is the only Hindu temple and the only Indian shrine in Malaysia facing the sea, so don’t miss out on paying it a visit!
The best part is, the entrance to this temple is free!
The best time to visit is during the month of Massi (usually between January and February) when devotees gather to celebrate Kali’s birthday.
It’s a special occasion for Malaysian Hindus from all around the country to come together and celebrate.
Lin Je Kong Temple
Location: Lin Je Kong Temple, Coral Beach, Jalan Pasir Bagok, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Lin Je Kong Temple is a Chinese temple on Pangkor Island, Perak and is one of the oldest temples there.
Built to honor the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, Lin Je Kong Temple started as a small shrine on the rock. But over time, it has grown into something like a religious park, with statues on the cliff.
From Lin Je Kong Temple, you get a wide view of this part of Pangkor Island. Plus the sight of Coral Beach below is stunning, especially when the weather is clear.
Standing there, you can even see Pulau Giam and Pulau Mentagor in the distance.
Masjid Sungai Pinang Kecil
Location: Masjid Al-Khairiah, Sungai Pinang Kecil, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Perak, Malaysia
Masjid Al-Ittifaq (also known as Masjid Sungai Nibong Kecil) is an old mosque located in Kampung Seberang Paya. It was originally a small surau but it got bigger over the years and turned into a proper mosque.
This place is often thought of as part of Bukit Jambul because it’s right near the Bukit Jambul Golf Course,
In the beginning, Masjid Al-Ittifaq was a small surau but it got bigger over the years and turned into a proper mosque.
Visiting this temple is a great way to end your exploration of Pangkor’s many temples!