The state of Terengganu is located in the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, bounded by Kelantan and Pahang, and is home to more than 320 km of coastline along the South China Sea. 

The region is known for its diverse range of cultural heritage and mix of both Chinese and Malay cultures, providing many historical sites, beautiful islands and white sand beaches. It’s a must for any traveller visiting Malaysia. 

Find our Terengganu picks below: 

Mainland Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu, the state capital city proudly showcases its local rich culture that one can experience by visiting local markets or its new and sophisticated architectural landmarks like the majestic Crystal Mosque and the Terengganu Drawbridge.

The Central Market, locally known as Pasar Payang, is located by the Terengganu River and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Kuala Terengganu. Here, travellers will have a delightful experience mingling with locals and shopping for local products at reasonable prices for traditional handicrafts such as batik, silk, songket, brocade and brassware, as well as fresh produce.

For history lovers, one must visit the Muzium Negeri Terengganu, a place where one can immerse for hours in a historical gathering journey for the day on Terengganu.

For those who love architectural marvels, why not visit the Crystal Mosque and the Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge.

The Crystal Mosque, is one of the most unique mosques in the country which has made it the most popular tourist attraction in Malaysia. The grand structure made of steel, glass and crystal gets its name from the way its glass and steel cladding construction reflects in the sun and never ceases to amaze visitors.

Terengganu’s Crystal Mosque. (Supplied)

Taking a tour of the Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge is a must.  The 76 metre bascule is the longest ever built on a tower bridge and the first in Southeast Asia. We recommend a guided tour of the bridge to experience the outlook of the city and river from the 15th floor gallery. Step onto the glass floor of the Sky Terrace and be amazed by the view beneath or step into the Engine Room and witness firsthand how the pistons work to operate the bridge. Finally, indulge in exquisite Malaysian cuisine at its restaurant, but make sure to make a reservation.

Another major drawcard to the area is the abundance of fishing options for keen anglers to make the most of whilst travelling, especially squid!

Every year, between April and June, the Terengganu Squid Jigging Festival takes place as scores of boats head to the seas in the hope of the biggest catch. 

Learning about the traditional approach to boat building is also a popular activity as Terengganu is well known for skills that have been passed down over centuries. Known as perahu payang, or payang for short, these traditional fishing boats are handcrafted without the use of modern technology and equipment, such as nails and blueprints, although over time the skill has begun to be underused. 

To combat this, the government has undertaken new steps to help train young builders in the traditional style and attract visitors to learn about traditional boat making and the history of the craft.

The best way for travellers to witness the boat building masters at work is a visit to Pulau Duyong, situated between the Sultan Mahmud Bridge and Kuala Sungai, easily accessible by river or road, where they can stroll from workshop to workshop to see boats being built.

Picture Perfect Island Escapes 

Beach dwellers and sunseekers alike will love the many options the Terengganu region provides. Whether your clients are looking to wander along quiet, picturesque beaches, or enjoy the comforts of five-star accommodation at offerings like the Taraas Beach & Spa Resort, you’re tropical escape will be magical.

Aeeial view snorkelling group activity at Perhentian Island Terengganu, Malaysia. (Supplied)

Just a short ferry ride from Kuala Terengganu, travellers will find the Perhentian Islands, a sun drenched paradise split into two islands (Besar – big, Kecil – small). Besar is a popular holiday spot for families with a range of resorts offering cabana options, while Kecil, the smaller of the Perhentian islands, is popular among budget travellers. Both islands are great for snorkelling and scuba diving, with over 20 dive sites easily accessible by boat and a great range of sea life to see. Read more about diving in the whole of Malaysia HERE.

Sunny day on the idyllic beach. Perhentian Islands in Malaysia. (Supplied)

Like the Perhentians, Redang is also an amazing diving destination for water lovers, but is also great for the entire family with safe swimming options, like the Redang Marine Park Centre which has nets to create a hazard free environment.

Terrapuri Heritage Hotel (The Land Of Palaces)

Terrapuri Heritage Hotel – Pool. (Supplied) 

If you’re looking for the best hotel option in Terengganu, it’s hard to go past the Terrapuri Heritage Hotel, a conservation project of the Terengganu Malay Classic house and palace, and home to 29 antique rooms that are over 100 years old. Just an hour north of Kuala Terengganu, and flanked by the South China Sea on one side, and the Setiu Wetlands on the other, the Terrapuri is a tranquil retreat by day, with stunning views and swaying coconut trees. By night, fireflies dart through the air, and at the right time of the year, guests can see green turtles on the beach laying eggs.

Terrapuri Heritage Hotel  – Sun Deck. (Supplied).

Villas at Terrapuri are between 100 and 250 years old and have been refurbished into luxurious residential accommodation options with air conditioning, ceiling fans and feature unique traditional décor. Meals at the property are served from a Malay style palace/courtyard garden, ‘Sesayap’, which overlooks the sea. There is also a range of activities and day tours available from the Terrapuri Heritage Village such as; Fireflies Sanctuary, Setiu Wetlands Cruise, Bird Watching, Rainforest Trail, and Kuala Terengganu Heritage Trail.