Gunung Raya
No plans to actually climb to the mountain top, just a random drive through according to the map in hand. A finding that was worth every moment. At 890 meters Gunung Raya is Langkawi’s highest peak where you are able to see some of the most panoramic and spectacular views of the island. It is part of Gunung Raya Forest Reserve, with a total area of over 5000 hectares of pristine rainforest making this the largest nature reserve on Langkawi.
far end is Tanjung Rhu which can be clearly seen during a clear day. I can see the entire island from here, giving me a better bearing of what is where!
It is home to most of our wildlife including the largest birds in Langkawi the Great Hornbills, Wreathed Hornbills, many eagles like the magnificent Mountain Hawk Eagles, the very secretive Orange Breasted Trogon, Dusky Leaf Monkeys, Macaque Monkeys, Eurasian Wild Pigs, Giant squirrels, and many others. I didn’t get to see any, one because I was driving… long and winded, taking my eyes of the road is really not advisable eh! Focus! Focus!
It is easy to drive up Gunung Raya. You should plan at least one hour. There is a restaurant and a small resort up there and you can take a lift to go to the peak. The view is breathtaking, one should not miss. A good alternative to the Cable Car for those who need to ‘touch ground’ to reach the top.
When I was at the top, I could hardly see anything, not even five metres ahead of me. The fog was so heavy because it rained earlier. However, with a little bit of wind, I was lucky to see it change within few minutes. I was told on a clear day, even mainland can be seen.
bottom: one in the cluster of islands visible is Tasik Dayang Bunting. I can see the entire island and the figure of the resting pregnant woman very clearly from here.
there’s a resort up there! used to be only for the high rank government officials when they have meetings… now open to public. Wanna sleep where the PMs used to?? Try the resort then!
At the peak of Gunung Raya, beside the resort towers the MEASAT Satellite Control Centre.
facing west, the sunset was stunning!
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