Kenyir Lake

Tasik Kenyir or Kenyir Lake is an artificial lake located in Hulu Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia created in 1985 by the damming of the Kenyir River. The lake provides water to the Sultan Mahmud Power Station. It is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia with an area of 260,000 hectares.

Geography

The lake borders Kelantan in the west and Pahang in the south. This immense lake also serves as another gateway to Taman Negara. The lake has a surface area of 260 km² and contains 340 small islands, which were previously hilltops prior to the creation of the lake, more than 14 waterfalls and numerous rivers and rapids. Because the lake is a reservoir, the water level can vary depending on the month. The water level is highest (and the lake consequently the most beautiful) in March and April.

History

This area had been listed as a centre of civilization in the era of Neolithic. Some artifacts had been uncovered by a group of archeologists in 1956 and 1970’s. Such artifacts were kitchen utensil, axes and tools dating back in Neolithic era. Seashells known as Siput Cengkerang were also found, these cengkerang shells were the source of food to the prehistoric man of the Neolithic age. This seashell was found in Gua Gunung Bewah, Kenyir. This sample has been sent for its date inspection and was dated between 8920 + 120 B.P to 2630 + 80 B.P

Flora and fauna

Kenyir Lake is also home to numerous species of freshwater fishes and exotic wildlife. With a water catchment area of 38,000 hectares, the lake is naturally a haven for freshwater fish. A recent study revealed that there are some 300 species of freshwater fish dwelling in the lake. The presence of dead trees around the lake serves as a perfect breeding ground for these fishes. Algae growing on dead trees and branches serve as the main form of sustenance for the fishes. From studies and observations conducted by the Department of Fisheries, species such as the big Lampam Sungai (barboides), Kelah (Malayan mahseer or Tor tambroides), Toman (snakehead), Kawan (Friendly Barb), Kalui (Giant Gouramy) and Kelisa (green arowana) are found in waters and around dead trees.

The jungles surrounding Kenyir Lake are home to some endangered species, such as Asian elephants and Malaysian tigers.

Kenyir Dam

Even though the original survey for the project was in1972 the construction was started in 1978 and was completed in 1985. In 1987 the whole project was officially opened by his Royal Highness the Sultan of Terengganu Darul Iman and was named after the Baginda Sultan "Sultan Mahmud Hydro Electric Power Station". The main project site is located at Kuala Kenyir (about 55km from Kuala Terengganu).

Tourism

Although an artificial lake, the area has been successfully developed for eco-tourism, and there are many resorts on its shores. Fishing is popular, as are jungle treks, waterfalls and caves. According to the locals, the best season for fishing is August when the water level is lower. Popular spots for jungle trekking are Pengkalan Gawi, Bewah at National Park, along the rivers of Saok, Lasir, Tembat and Lawit. Kayaking, canoeing, boating, rafting and rapids shooting are among the many water sport activities available here.

Things to do:

• Cruise to Lasir Waterfall (the largest waterfall in Kenyir Lake).
• Boating, canoeing and rafting
• Jungle trekking, exploring wild plants, birds…
• Swimming at Saok Waterfall, swimming at Lasir Waterfall

Bewah Cave - one of the prehistoric caves among the magnificent limestone mountain range, trek up to Bewah Cave, you will be award by a fine view over the lake. Remnants of archaeological artefacts dated 10,000-15,000 years. Formation of limestone creating unique stalactites and stalagmites. Natural habitat for nocturnal insects and animals. Walkways for easy access.

Orchid Island : Contains almost 3,000 species of orchids bred under their natural environment and colourful landscape. There are zones for hybrid orchids, orchids from the ASEAN countries and wild orchids found in abundance in Lake Kenyir. Developed as an orchid’s garden, conservation and research hub as well as an attraction for tourists and orchid enthusiasts.

Herbal Park : Located in Pulau Sah Kecil, it contains more than 200 species of herbs used in traditional Malay medicinal ingredients. Herb information at the Intepretative Centre. Visit to herb arboretum. Free herbal drinks for visitors to taste : Tongkat Ali, (Eurycoma longifolia), Mahkota Dewa (Phaleria macrocarpa) and Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila Benth).

Butterfly Park: just five minutes away from the Gawi Jetty on Lubuk Geras is the Kenyir Butterfly Park. The park serves as a sanctuary to thousands of species of preserved and live butterflies. Surrounded with lush flowers and greens, the Butterfly Park provides ideal photography opportunities. Some of the rarest species are found here such as the Rajah Brooke and Golden Birdwings. There is also an informative and interactive insect museum which is a replica of the Bewah Cave to enthrall the young ones.

Kenyir Elephant village: this is located at Temelong River and allows visitors to observe wildlife and befriend the rainforest’s largest and most magnificent creature at the Kenyir Elephant Village.

Places to stay:

All these accommodations run tours to the local attractions

Kenyir Lake houseboat: very basic accommodation but they run good tours around the area.

Bahtera Petang houseboat: also basic but does have 2 private rooms.

Tanjung Mentong Resort

Kenyir Lake Land resort: Lodge

Kenyir Sanctuary Resort: Resort surrounding by nature jungle with fresh air & floating pool is one of the facilities available other than campsite, Hall and restaurant.

Lake kenyir Resort & Spa: Gawi Jetty, Swimming Pool, 12 Standard rooms, 130 Deluxe, 7 Executive and 1 Presidential Villa.  All rooms with air-cond, ceiling fan, bathroom attached, hot shower, hairdryer, IDD telephone, TV and mini bar | FACILITY; Swimming pool, jungle trekking, children camp, gymnasium, and many more. This is a well run and well equipped Resort.

Kenyir 4WD Safari & Camping Inclusive: Tent with camp bed (Twin Sharing), Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner / Free flow of coffee & tea, 4WD vehicles with professional team leader, Lighting, and a guide. 

Petang Island Resort: Standard rooms

source https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenyir_Lake

http://kenyirtravel.com/kenyir-elephant-conservation-village/