Sungai Merbok

Spread across 4,000 hectares, the mangrove forest around Sungai Merbok is an ecological haven for nature enthusiasts, photographers and just anyone looking for a tranquil outing to enjoy nature. This is the place where epic natural performances take place, from flocks of Little Egrets to kingfishers and waders stealing the show.  

For the uninitiated, mangrove forests are incredibly important ecosystems. They provide habitats for numerous species while sheltering the coastal areas from strong winds, tidal waves and tsunamis. Fortunately for us, Sungai Merbok in Kedah has the distinction of having one of the world’s richest concentration of mangrove species.  It is said to have 40 out of 60 of the world’s mangrove species. 

Visitors will arrive at Semeling Jetty Complex which is the site of the Mangrove Forest Reserve Museum, an auditorium and a Tourist Information Centre. To view the mangrove forest, visitors can stroll along the boardwalk built across the mangrove swamps.  

Sungai Merbok Mangrove is located about 8 km from the Sungai Petani exit along South North Expressway.

What to do 

• Explore the numerous varieties of plants and mangrove inhabitants from the long boardwalk 
• Learn about the enormous importance of mangrove forests at the Mangrove Forest Reserve Museum
• Go on a mangrove tour to know more about the varieties of plants, birds and aquatic life 
• Cruise along Sungai Merbok right up to Pulau Tiga, Teluk Bayu, Tanjung Dawai 
• Go island-hopping to smaller islands that are situated off the coast of mainland Kedah, such as Pulau Telur, Pulau Song Song and Pulau Bidan. Boat rides can be arranged at the jetty complex.