Redang lies bang in the middle of a marine park in Malaysia making it a beautiful destination to visit and one that should feature on your bucket list! Redang is more of a luxurious spot to visit and rightly so. It’s mostly secluded from the rest of Malaysia and is filled with beautiful private villas and resorts. Family time, a solo trip or a bachelorette – Redang is one destination that suits every place.
Also read: The 5 Hottest and Affordable Bachelorette Party Places
If that picture doesn’t convince you to pack your bags and set out on a trip to Redang right now, then maybe these 5 reasons will.
1. Snorkelling
What’s so different about going snorkeling in Redang, you ask? Pulau Redang is located in the protected marine waters of the Terengganu Marine Park. Visitors to the island have to pay a fare of RM 5 (INR 75) to enter the island. That’s about the cost of visiting Tarapore Aquarium in Mumbai but the sight is a thousand times better. You’ll be enamoured by the droves of fish that swim around you even as you step into the water. Clear blue waters, white sands and a feisty breeze makes it all worthwhile. The beaches at Penang are the kinds that make you introspect (in a nice way) and just be thankful.
Most resorts offer snorkeling gear which you can rent out for just RM 30 (INR 445) per day. You can even choose to go with a tour where a boat takes you in deeper to some secluded snorkeling spots. Most of these excursions are monitored. If you do choose to go out on your own, remember that most beaches do not have lifeguards so make sure you take the necessary precautions.
Please Note: To protect the corals, fins are not allowed in Redang while snorkeling
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2. Trekking
This one’s for the adrenaline junkies. Did you know that you can actually trek across the entire island? There’s something different about just walking through lush green mountains and have beautiful birds sing to you. The Redang Island is home to a range of animal diversity. There are different levels of treks that can be done. If you’re looking for something that’s not too strenuous, I suggest the village road and Pasir Panjang. These routes are simple enough to even walk through in your flip-flops. For something more challenging, we suggest you try the 2 km long Pasir Panjang to Teluk Dalam trek.
3. Karaoke
It’s time to exercise those vocal chords because if there’s one thing Redang loves to do, its sing! The locals here love their karaoke and so do the guests. It does help (quite a bit) that there’s plenty of alcohol available on the island. Not all bars serve alcohol but it’s freely available at wine stores and supermarkets. They’re also really cheap. A can of beer costs RM 10 (INR 150) or less. So maybe some liquid courage is the perfect way to get started!
Also read: 6 Best Karaoke Scenes In Mumbai
4. Sunrises And Sunsets
I like to think of myself as a traveller and I’ve seen my fair share of sunrises and sunsets but believe me when I say that Redang knows how to put on a light show! Every day is a miracle and every day is sky visual prettier than the day before. The sunsets were my favourite (mostly because I never woke in time for the sunrise, thanks to the great karaoke bars). The sky explodes in deep shades of purple and crimson as a giant red ball simple sets into the sea.
5. The Local Cuisine
You can’t possibly come to Redang and NOT eat the local food. I love Malay cuisine and Redang sure knows its seafood. Head over to the Redang Laguna Food Court for authentic local food. The meals are delicious and affordable – although the place only offers dinner. Another fun thing to try I the Spicy Thai salad which we have to admit is quite delicious. In just RM 10, you get an amazing fish head curry. The portions are enormous and can easily serve two people. The cost? Merely RM 10 (INR 150).
Don’t forget to try the Ais Kacang – which is the Malay version of gola. It’s absolutely delicious and perfect after a trek across the island. Sandfly café serves meals that cater to both Malay and Western palates. It’s quite delicious and we loved the vibe.
Also Read: Your Chance to Try the Authentic Malaysian Food in Mumbai
How do I get there?
The simplest way to travel to Redang is to travel from India to either Singapore or Malaysia. You can then take Berjaya Air which offers direct flights to the island from Singapore’s Changi Airport Budget Terminal and Kuala Lumpur’s Subang Airport.
Best time to visit:
Mid-March to late September Redang ususally shuts down from the start of November and reopens at the start of March
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