10 May 2009

Perlis - the northernmost tip of Malaysia!

At the northern end of the country that borders Malaysia and Thailand is the small state called Perlis.
Like its sister state, Kedah, most people don't come to Perlis because it's too far and with the assumption there's nothing to do there.
Perlis is a perfect getaway from the citylife, and it's not as boring as you think it is.
Here are some places you can visit:
(picture courtesy of www.cuti.com.my)
Arau
A small little town from the main city, Arau is a small town where you can get to by bus. There're some shophouses along the area,
but walk a little further and you will see Istana Arau, the Royal Palace. Of course, if you must know, Arau is the royal capital of Perlis so
don't be fooled by its small size. If you've think you've seen it all, walk a little further on and you will find the Royal Mosque, which is
very close to the Palace. You can enjoy the morning market in Arau, and there's public transportation at Arau to get around Alor Star,
to Langkawi and to Kuala Perlis with ease. Before you hit town, you will see tons of paddy fields and beautiful greenery. The architecture
from long ago still remains in the shophouses so if you're planning to sightsee, this little quiet town is one stop.

Snake and Reptile Farm
Being the only snake farm in Malaysia, one must at least drop by Perlis to see this place. North of Kangar, situated within the Bukit
Bintang Forest Reserve near Batu Pahat River, this research facility is designed to develop serums for snakebites, while researching
the habits of the creatures as well as letting people appreciate the beauty of this creatures. More than 20 species of snakes can
be found there, as well as crocodiles, monitor lizards, spiders, tortoises and much more. If you have interest in the cold-blooded
creatures, go ahead and take a peek at the farms. If you're lucky, you can have a photo taken with the main attractions themselves.
(picture courtesy of www.cuti.com.my)

Melati Lake
Located north of Kangar lies the recreational man-made park called Melati Lake. It's a huge park that encircles a large lake, with natural
wetlands and forestry. There's tons of activities to be done here. If you like family activities, you can have a picnic or try the water sports
in the lakes. Have a stroll down its lovely greenery. If you feel like doing some quiet fishing, here's also a great place to do so. Observing
wildlife is also a big attraction here. Children can have fun at the playground that's provided within the park.
(picture courtesy of www.cuti.com.my)

Gua Kelam
Located at Kaki Bukit lies a 370-metre long limestone cave which happens to be one of the main attractions in Perlis. There's a
famous saying around there that goes "Di Kaki Bukit, Ada Gua Kelam" which literally translates as "At a foothill, there's a dark cave".
You walk along a suspension bridge the whole journey through the caves, as you learn more about the cave and its unique features.
There's a stream that flows through the cave which you can later have a dip when you reach the end of it. This cave was discovered
by a resident Englishman who thought that this was a wonderful route for tin ore transportation, and thus Gua Kelam became what it is.
If you're feeling adventurous and want to know what it's like to be a miner from those days, then take a walk in Gua Kelam and
discover the mysteries within that dark route.
(picture courtesy of prince photography, www.flickr.com)