Top 10 Things to See and Do on Tioman Island

When I traveled alone to Malaysia last year, I fell in love with an island: Tioman. Rober got quite jealous, and to prove him that my feelings for this little piece of Malaysian paradise were purely platonic, I took him back to meet my beloved island. But aside from falling in love, what is there to do and see on Tioman Island? Here are some suggestions...

Discovering the Legend of Tioman Island

According to local lore, a dragon princess was flying from China to Singapore to visit her beloved. While soaring over Malaysia, she decided to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. The swim felt so refreshing that she decided to stay forever and transformed into the island we now know as Tioman. As for the prince of Singapore? Well, he was left waiting!

Relaxation at Its Best

On Tioman Island, relaxation is effortless. Picture yourself surrounded by swaying palm trees, listening to the gentle waves, and sipping on fresh fruit smoothies. This is paradise, so take your time and savor every moment.

Snorkeling Adventures Await

One of the top activities to indulge in on Tioman Island is snorkeling. The underwater life here is phenomenal. If you've ever wanted to meet Nemo in person, this is your chance! The vibrant coral reefs are home to a rich variety of marine life, making snorkeling an unforgettable experience.

Chasing Waterfalls

Tioman Island is home to several breathtaking waterfalls, with the most famous being the Asah and the spectacular Mukut falls. Hiking to these beautiful cascades is not only refreshing but also an excellent way to immerse yourself in the island's lush nature.

A Culinary Delight

No trip to Tioman would be complete without indulging in its delicious cuisine. From the flavorful Nasi lemak to mee goreng, roti, rojak, chicken rice, and sate, the Malaysian gastronomy is one of the most diverse and exciting in Asia. You’re bound to fall in love with the flavors!

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles

Make sure you don’t miss the stunning sunrises and sunsets that Tioman has to offer. The sun rises around 7:00 AM, perfect for even the laziest travelers. As for sunsets? They are some of the most breathtaking you will ever witness, with hues of orange, pink, and purple painting the sky.

Ice Kakang: A Sweet Treat

Ah, the nostalgia! An Ice Kakang is a must-try dessert while in Malaysia. Imagine a mound of ice topped with flavored syrups, fruit jellies, and even sweet corn and beans! This delightful dessert is a refreshing way to cool off after a day in the sun.

Embarking on Jungle Treks

For adventure enthusiasts, Tioman offers incredible trekking opportunities. With few roads on the island, the trails are filled with natural beauty. One of the most popular treks is from Tekek to Juara (about two hours) or from Tekek to Monkey Bay. Don’t forget your camera; the views are breathtaking!

Contributing to Conservation: The Turtle Project

If you’re passionate about nature and want to make a difference, consider joining the Turtle Project. Here, you can help protect and learn about sea turtles, a beautiful sight around Tioman. For more information, visit www.juaraturtleproject.com. And keep an eye out for the local monitor lizards (some nearly a meter long); they are harmless vegetarians, so there's no need to panic if you spot one!

Admiring the Twin Peaks

One of the most iconic views on Tioman Island is the ‘Nenek Semukut’, the Twin Peaks. Locals say that the architect of the Petronas Towers took inspiration from these majestic formations. Whether or not that's true, the panorama is sure to take your breath away!

Essential Information for Visiting Tioman Island

• How to Get There: This post explains how to reach Tioman Island.
• Entry Fee: The entry fee to the island is 5 MYR, plus an additional 20 MYR for the marine park entrance (we paid 15 MYR as students).
• Where to Stay: Depending on your budget, you have various options. On my first trip, I stayed in Genting Village, a local area with limited accommodations and some eateries offering rice, noodles, and burgers at reasonable prices. I fondly remember my stay at the Aguna Resort. If you're looking for something more luxurious, consider the Tunamaya Resort, which offers a romantic setting perfect for couples.
• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from March to October, as many accommodations close during the monsoon season.

To make the most of your trip, consider these options to save on your travel expenses:

For a visual taste of what Tioman Island has to offer, check out this informative travel guide video:

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