Located just 15 minutes from the Kuah Jetty of Langkawi, the second largest and uninhabited island of Malaysia, the Pulau Dayang Bunting island welcomes you to the quietness of the place amidst the wildlife. Also known as the Isle of Pregnant Maiden due to the shape of the Dayang Bunting island from afar, the jungle trekking experience is a must while visiting the island.

Surrounded by the Guillemard freshwater lake, this Lake of the Pregnant Maiden is separated from the sea by a thin rock lining, making it a must-watch for its visitors. The adjacent Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park exhibits excellent limestone formation and several limestone caves. Dayang Bunting Island is filled with dense rainforest, resonating the vivid chirps of kingfishers along with 90 more species of birds wandering around. Dayang Bunting is an excellent place to enjoy swimming, cave exploring, and getting lost in the dense mangroves. Paddle Boats along with Kayaks are available to add to the fun. A small store for souvenirs and snacks is available in the island area to add to your travelling experience.

Pulau Dayang Bunting Highlights

1. Jungle Trekking

The 15 minutes walk from the jetty to the lake region is no less than a jungle trekking amidst the mangroves, monkeys, and sudden bends. To make the walk easier and convenient a concrete stairway is used. Enjoy nature’s beauty while exploring the bushy jungles of Pulau Dayang Bunting

2. Swimming

Enjoying a swim in Tasik Dayang Bunting is a mesmerizing experience for any swimmer. The average depth of water is 10 Metres and it is advisable that no beginner should try their luck in this lake abruptly. Life jackets are available on rentals. Changing rooms for convenience are available, too.

3. Birdwatching

Whether you are kayaking or you are walking down the wooden alleys or just relaxing in the breeze of Pulau Dayang Bunting – the only common thing is catching sight of dozens of varied birds. An enchanting place for bird watchers, any traveller can easily witness hornbill, kites, woodpecker, kingfisher, and many more.

4. Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park

Visiting the Geoforest Park of Pulau Dayang Bunting is an absolute must to see the amazing limestone formations of the region. It houses many caves and distinguished geological features. Also, the famous lake of Pulau Dayang Bunting is a result of breaking down of the surface of one of the caves, which later got filled with water and gave rise to this freshwater lake.

5. Miracle Border

Ever seen a lake and a sea waving hands together? This glance is possible in Pulau Dayang Bunting’s Lake of Pregnant Maiden. A small line of rocks separating the sea from the lake can be seen. The miracle lies that even just 30 Metres away from the sea, the lake water still is not at all salty.

6. Kayaking

Solar operated paddle boats or kayaks are available in Tasik Dayang Bunting to witness the surrounding of the lake region. Moving inside the mysterious mangrove swamps and watching the magnificent limestone hills will be a memorable experience.

Legends of Pulau Dayang Bunting

Legends and stories about the famous Dayang Bunting island are an important part of Malaysian folklore and invite the attention of travellers even now. It is believed that the princess of the Lake, Mambang Sari fell in love with Met Teja. Soon after, they got married and gave birth to their son. Unfortunately, the early demise of their son left them in dismay and princess Mambang Sari decided to rest their son in the water of the lake. She also blessed women who were having difficulty in giving birth.

It is believed from then that any woman will become fertile once they take a dip in the water of this lake. Locals of Langkawi still believe this. Adding to the legend, if the lake is looked at from a distance, it is said that the curves of the hill behind make a silhouette of a pregnant lady lying down with her belly on the top, making the legend more affirmative.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pulau Dayang Bunting is from January to April. Rainfall is scarce during this time which helps is not disrupting the tour. Also if you wish to bypass the crowded time, try visiting from April to August for a calmer Pulau Dayang Bunting.

Tips

• To experience a hassle-free tour to Pulau Dayang Bunting, try to make your transportation and tour reservations ready one day prior.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes to avoid slippery paths.
• The island is filled with monkeys. Beware of your belongings and food all the time.