Besar Island (Pulau Besar), Malacca: Travel Guide (2024)

Are you looking for a great place to spend a weekend in Malaysia? If so, you should consider visiting Besar Island. The name of this island is inspired by how large it is (168 hectares). This island is in the state of Malacca and is known for its beautiful beaches and impressive wildlife.

It enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 21 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. You will have a great time swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island’s natural wonders.

What to Expect in Besar Island (Pulau Besar)

What to Do on Besar Island (Pulau Besar)

1. Visit Besar Island Museum

Besar Island is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. Still, it also has a rich history and cultural heritage. In recent years, the island has become a popular tourist destination. One of the main attractions is the Besar Island Museum.

The museum was built at the cost of RM1.9 million. It housed a collection of historical artefacts from the Malay Sultanate of Malacca. The exhibits illustrate the island’s culture, history, and spiritual significance, particularly its role as a rest point for sailors travelling between China and Europe. Visitors to the museum can learn about the island’s past and see some of the unique artefacts found on the island.

This museum is a great way to learn about the island’s history and culture. It is located on the island, just a short walk from the jetty. Admission to the museum is free, so check it out when you are on the island!

2. Visit historical tombs

Besar Island is home to many ancient Islamic graves and tombs. The tomb of Sultanul Al-Arifin, a scholar who travelled to this island and dedicated his life to deepening his religious knowledge, is on this island. The tomb is near a mosque, making it a perfect place to stop and pray while travelling.

Another historical tomb, and one of the most intriguing, is the blue tomb of Syarifah Rodziah. Also known as Syarifah Habsah, she was the daughter of Sultanul Al-Arifin. Her tomb is near her father’s tomb, and its striking blue colour makes it a standout among the other more traditional-looking graves on the island. It is also said that Syarifah Habsah was a very pious woman, and her prayers were known to be particularly powerful.

In addition, legend has it that her tomb is blessed with healing powers, and many people visit the site hoping to be cured of their ailments. Whether or not this is true, the tomb of Syarifah Rodziah is undoubtedly an essential part of Besar Island’s history and culture.

You can check out other tombs on this island such as Nenek Kebayan Tomb, Tok Janggut Tomb, and Seven Siblings Tomb.

When to Visit Besar Island (Pulau Besar)

This island is a great place to visit any time of year – it’s always hot and humid! The island is perfect for a day trip, with plenty of things to see and do.

How to Get to Besar Island (Pulau Besar)

You can get to Besar Island in two ways: by speedboat or ferry.

Speedboat from Umbai Jetty: For only RM5, you can park your car here. To get to the island by speedboat, you must pay another RM100 (return trip). This mode of transportation is suitable for those who come in large groups because it can fit about 15 people.

Ferry from Anjung Batu Jetty: The car park here costs only RM3. Suppose you come alone, in a small group, or want to save money. In that case, it is advisable to take the ferry as the return trip ticket costs RM14 for adults, RM10 for children aged 5-12, and RM3 for children below 5.