Nestled in the Southern tip of Malaysia lies a typical but mesmerizing Chinese fishing village called Kukup. Being the place to go to for amazing visits in Pontian, Kukup does not only offer Kukup Laut and Ayer Masin. A very much undiscover gem lies in this area, and it is call Kukup island or Pulau Kukup. Captivating views brought to you by mother nature, fresh and crisp air awaits you at Pulau Kukup, owing much thanks to the Malaysian government for its never wavering support in ecological and nature preservation and protection.
A series of campaigns led by the Malaysian government has transformed Kukup island or Pulau Kukup into a protected nature park in the state of Johor, Malaysia. It has also been demarcated as a protected wetlands area. Spanning around 800 hectares, Pulau Kukup boasts 647 mangroves, giving it the title of second in place for biggest mangrove area in the world.
Thousands of different biological species flourish in the mangroves because of the abundance of living habitat. Species like fishes, crabs, shellfish insects, are some of the species coupled with wild animals like wild boars and monkeys. It is also home to 41 varieties of birds. With the natural habitat sponsored by the vast mangroves, it is truly a paradise for these animals.
These “forests on waters” flanks the place along its coastal lines, giving it protection from the strong winds and waves. Serving as a natural barrier against these environmental forces to give coastal residents a safe place to live and a safe haven for businesses. Furthermore, the plants in these mangroves have a special way of breathing, which helps them filter air and sea water naturally by functioning as a system of natural filtration that mother nature created.
When visiting Kukup island or Pulau Kukup, these are the 6 places that you must never miss.
In the mangroves, there is a canopy walk and a 5 levels high observation tower built for all nature lovers. Scale the observation tower or take a stroll across the canopy walk to take in the awe -inspiring views of the magnificent mangroves. Not only does this offers a breath of fresh, clear air from high up, and chances of photo moments that will put your windows desktop wallpaper to shame, it is a very good natural healing process of the heart and soul for folks who are fighting the battles in the corporate world, or taking you on a an amazing trip away from the stress, hustle and bustle of city life.
After spending some time above the mangroves, it is time to delve deep into the mangroves. Take a eight hundred meters long walk on the boardwalk into the mangroves to experience Arboretum, the natural botanical gardens. Be awed and inspired by the shades of sunlight trickling into the mangroves through the vegetation.
The natural light show brought to you by none other than nature, proves to be a very scenic spot for photo-taking sessions. Other than soaking in the natural wonders, you get to see and learn at first-hand, how the unique breathing capabilities of the mangroves allows them to grow on mud. If you are lucky, you might even get to spot mud crabs, otters and fishes living in their natural habitat.
Be sure to not miss the biggest mangrove tree in Malaysia while you are in Kukup island or Pulau Kukup. Having been around for hundreds of years, this mangrove tree is famous for being the biggest in Malaysia, with it's diameter stretching more than 60 centimeters.
In Pulau Kukup, a total of 6 rivers provides the natural habitat with its flow of water and linking Kukup island or Pulau Kukup and its habitats up. The longest river, Sungai Ular (Ular River), or Snake River, spans 1.7 kilometers long. You can choose to take a canoeing trip along Sungai Ular, to soak in the amazing habitat of the second largest mangroves in the world, while feeling the excitement of adrenaline rush. Do note that the canoeing experience is dependent on the tides. When the tides are low, you will not be able to experience the canoeing fun, as the rental services will not be available.
Being home to many varieties of birds, bird-watching experiences on guided boat trips are available here. The trip will take you on boats to spectacular spots to watch the birds live and thrive in their natural habitats. These trips are also guided by experienced and knowledgeable guides to explain and impart in-depth information.
Being a protected natural mangrove habitat, you can also play your part in helping preserve and protect the mangroves. If you would like to participate in this, let the park authorities know what you would like. The park authorities will arrange for guides to teach and allow you to plant these mangrove trees. Do your part for nature now!
Address: Lot 1319, Mukim Air Masin, 82030 Kukup, Pontian, Johor
Contact: +6016969355
SGMYTravel enriches your Kukup island or Pulau Kukup adventure! We offer essential travel services, connecting you seamlessly from Singapore to Johor Bahru, Singapore to Malaysia, and convenient airport transfer. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Pulau Kukup, where nature thrives. Explore the botanical treasures of the Arboretum, take amazing views from the observation tower and be amazed by the largest mangrove tree in Malaysia. Take a canoeing trip on Sungai Ular, embark on bird-watching boat tours, and contribute to nature by planting mangrove trees. Let SGMYTravel elevate your journey, ensuring a smooth and memorable exploration of Pulau Kukup's paradise.