Tasik Kenyir, Southeast Asia’s largest man-made lake, lies quietly tucked within Terengganu’s lush rainforest. Reaching this tranquil expanse from Kuala Lumpur or within Terengganu doesn’t require guesswork—just a solid plan. Here’s how to get there efficiently, whether you’re chasing waterfalls, boarding a houseboat, or arriving for a fishing trip.
From Kuala Lumpur to Tasik Kenyir
The journey from Malaysia’s capital to Tasik Kenyir spans around 450 km and takes approximately 6–7 hours by road. Here’s how you can make it:
By Car (Most Direct Route)
Self-driving offers the most flexibility and is often preferred for group travel. Follow this route:
- Start on the East Coast Expressway (E8) heading towards Kuantan.
- Continue past Gambang, exit at Ajil Interchange.
- Head towards Kuala Berang via Route 106.
- Follow signage to Pengkalan Gawi, the main gateway to Tasik Kenyir.
Estimated cost: RM50–70 in tolls
Fuel usage: Approx. RM100 (depending on vehicle type)
By Bus
If you don’t want to drive:
- Step 1: Take a direct bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu (8–9 hours).
- Step 2: From there, board a local bus or taxi to Kuala Berang, and then onward to Pengkalan Gawi.
Tip: Some buses stop at Kuala Berang directly—opt for these to save transfer time.
From Terengganu to Tasik Kenyir
Starting within the state makes it far easier.
From Kuala Terengganu (State Capital)
- Distance: About 80 km
- Travel Time: Approx. 1.5 hours
- Route: Use Route 14 to Ajil, then switch to Route 106 to Kuala Berang. From there, follow local signs to Pengkalan Gawi.
From Other Districts
If you’re traveling from places like Dungun or Kemaman, route through Ajil and head north-west toward Kuala Berang.
Alternative Transport Options
Private Transfers
Several operators in Kuala Lumpur and Terengganu offer private van or MPV transfers, especially suited for larger groups with luggage. This adds convenience but at a higher price point—usually around RM600–RM800 one-way.
Flight + Road Combo
- Fly from KLIA or Subang to Sultan Mahmud Airport (Kuala Terengganu).
- Drive or Taxi from the airport to Tasik Kenyir—approximately 90 minutes.
This combo is useful for those short on time and not keen on long drives.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nearest town: Kuala Berang has basic amenities and serves as a last-minute stop before entering the lake area.
- Mobile coverage: Limited inside forested zones. Inform contacts ahead of time.
- Weather impact: Heavy rain can make some routes slower due to landslides or minor flooding.
Postal Codes and GPS Planning
Travelers often rely on GPS apps and delivery services for supplies or navigation. It helps to know the Malaysia postal code for key starting points:
- Kuala Lumpur central area: 50000
- Kuala Terengganu: 20000
- Kuala Berang (near Tasik Kenyir): 21700
These details can streamline logistics, especially when sending equipment or scheduling meetups en route.
Final Route Tips
- Start early to avoid driving through remote roads at night.
- Fill up on petrol before leaving main towns.
- Download offline maps in case of patchy service near the lake.
Tasik Kenyir is rewarding not just for its calm waters and dense forest surrounds—but also for the sense of arriving somewhere truly removed from city life. Getting there is part of the journey’s charm.