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Santuari Kelah
Hidden deep within Terengganu’s rainforest lies an experience unlike any other. At Santuari Kelah, you don’t just watch fish—you swim with thousands of them. Touch them, feed them, feel them gently nibbling your feet. Set in pristine Sungai Petang and accessible by boat, this aquatic sanctuary invites you to connect with nature through conservation, not consumption.
Dreaming of a wild getaway that brings you face-to-fin with Malaysia’s rare Golden Mahseer? Dive into Santuari Kelah. It’s not a vacation—it’s a conservation journey. Read on to explore everything you need to plan your trip.
Why Visit
Nestled within Tasik Kenyir’s vast ecosystem, Santuari Kelah is a protected breeding ground for the prized ikan kelah (Malaysian Mahseer). Fishing is strictly prohibited, ensuring survival and reproduction in its natural habitat. But that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits to adventure.
Conservation Meets Experience
Visitors can:
- Swim with thousands of fish in crystal clear waters
- Hand-feed the mahseer and feel them swirl around you
- Watch them nibble your feet in a surprisingly soothing massage
- Trek upstream to secluded rivers where wild kelah populations roam
How to Get There
Travel Directions
From Kuala Lumpur, use:
- Karak Expressway
- Transition to Jerangau-Jabor Highway
- Continue to Ajil, then Kuala Berang
From Kuala Terengganu, the sanctuary is about 80 km away.
River Access
To reach Santuari Kelah itself:
- Depart by boat from Pengkalan Gawi Jetty
- Enjoy a 45-minute scenic cruise to Sungai Petang, where 91 tributaries, mostly from Gunung Padang, feed life into this river sanctuary
Activities You Can Enjoy
No Fishing Allowed—But There’s Plenty Else!
Fishing is prohibited to protect breeding grounds, but visitors can still:
- Feed the kelah safely
- Observe their natural behavior up close
- Bathe and interact with thousands of friendly fish
- Hike to more remote streams upstream for golden mahseer sightings
RPP Tasik Kenyir Adventures
Santuari Kelah is just one part of the greater Kenyir experience. Other nearby activities include:
- Elephant Sanctuary
- Orchid and Butterfly Gardens
- Kayaking, jungle trekking
- Lodging on forested islands
Where to Stay
Located far from city noise on a tranquil island, RPP Tasik Kenyir offers:
- Comfortable rooms from RM80–RM350/night
- Cooking equipment, Astro TV, dining spaces
- PA system and public Wi-Fi
- Strict policies: No smoking, pets, or non-halal food
Booking hotline: 012-3152284: Secure online booking available
Quick Info
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Santuari Kelah |
| Location | Sungai Petang, Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu |
| GPS Coordinates | Approximate via river map (Gunung Padang tributaries) |
| Date Range Open | March to October annually |
| Main Attraction | Swimming and feeding ikan kelah |
| Prohibited | Fishing inside sanctuary grounds |
| River System | 91 tributaries from Gunung Padang |
| Access Method | Boat ride (45 mins) from Pengkalan Gawi Jetty |
| Nearby Lodging | RPP Tasik Kenyir (RM80–RM350/night) |
| Accommodation Features | Wi-Fi, PA System, Astro TV, Cooking gear, Dining area |
| Guest Policies | No smoking, pets, or non-halal food |
| Booking Contact | Tel: 012-3152284 |
| Transport Option | 4WD from Sungai Relau to Kuala Juram (RM24–RM100) |
| Sanctuary Variants | Santuari Sg. Relau & Kuala Juram |
| Additional Activities | Jungle trekking, kayak, butterfly garden |
| Conservation Type | Mahseer breeding and preservation site |
User Reviews & Testimonials
“One of the most magical outdoor experiences I’ve ever had. Swimming with the kelah fish felt surreal—they’re curious, gentle, and the setting is breathtaking.” — Mardiana B., Kuala Lumpur
“Loved the eco message and the hands-on fun. Seeing the fish up close, especially feeding them, made the conservation story come alive.” — Hafiz S., Kota Bharu
Contact & Booking Information
| Agency | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| Lembaga Kemajuan Terengganu Tengah (KETENGAH) |
|
| Bahagian Konservasi & Perlindungan Perikanan – Jabatan Perikanan Malaysia |
|
| Section for Resort Management – Department of Property Management, Prime Minister’s Department |
|
| Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) |
|
Final Thoughts
Santuari Kelah isn’t just a destination—it’s a movement. A living, breathing commitment to preserving one of Malaysia’s most prized freshwater treasures. Whether you’re knee-deep in the river surrounded by hundreds of curious fish, or standing at the banks watching nature unfold in perfect rhythm, you’ll leave changed. Calm. Connected.
This is conservation you can feel. So go ahead—trade city traffic for forest mist, screens for fins, and everyday stress for extraordinary encounters. Terengganu is calling, and its rivers are alive with magic.
🌿 Ready to plan your aquatic adventure? Let’s make your next trip meaningful—and memorable. I can help format this blog post for WordPress, optimize for social media previews, or build structured metadata. Just say the word!
Summary
- Attraction: Santuari Kelah
- Location: #Terengganu
- Attraction Type: #ConservationCenter
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