RAMMANG-RAMMANG : THE 3RD LARGEST KARST AREA

IN THE WORLD MAROS SOUTH SULAWESI

BASIC INFORMATION
Stone Forest Park Rammang-Rammang Limestone is the only
one in Indonesia and its the third largest
stone forest area in the world, after the Stone Forest Park
Tsingy in Madagascar and the second Shilin
Stone Forest Park in China.
Maros karst-Pangkep is also included in the UNESCO World
Heritage Convention.
Based on the source of a number of geological and
archaeological research nationally and
internationally who have studied in the karst region, said there
are about 400 caves located in the
karst region. And as many as 89 of them, is a prehistoric cave
which is the former residence of early
humans thousands of years ago.
According to data from the environmental agency of South
Sulawesi South Sulawesi Karst park area
lacks an area of approximately 43,700 hectares
There are several natural attractions that can be found in this
place.
Taman Hutan Batu Kapur, Telaga Bidadari, Gua Bulu' Barakka,
Gua Telapak Tangan, Gua Pasaung, dan
wisata Sungai Pute with Kampung Berua
Rammang-Rammang is located in Limestone Mountains cluster
(karst) Maros-Pangkep, precisely
located in the village of Salenrang, District Bontoa, Maros. This
place is also often known as Butta
Salewangang, South Sulawesi province.
Located about 40 kilometers north of Makassar

Taman Hutan Batu Kapur Rammang-Rammang

Telaga atau Taman Bidadari

Gua Telapak Tangan

This cave is one of a prehistoric sites in rammang-
rammang area.
In the cave, there are lot of images of human
handprints.

Gua Bulu Barakka

The cave inside the hill is a prehistoric sites.
 In the cave there are images of animals such as
buffalo, fish, deer.
images of early human activity in ancient times on
cave walls.

Sungai Pute Dan

Kampung Berua
Berua Village consist of 15 houses only
This small village not use any electricity.
electrical energy obtained from solar panels
(government assistance), and only used as
needed to charge the battery for
communication, radio or flashlight (some
residents have generators to obtain power
source)
Accommodation :
There is no any permanent accommodation,
but the visitors or tourist can stay in the
homes of residents in the Berua Village
there are no fixed rates if we want to stay in
this village, lodging rates in homes only by
agreement between tourists and villagers of
rammang-rammang
The house is still lack of facilities specially
for the toilet
But, Disbudpar Maros have a plan to
develope an accommodation project in
kamung Berua.

Kampung Berua
BUDGET
Angkutan Umum - Daya (Makassar) ke daerah Sudiang
* Rp. 4000,-
Angkutan Umum Pangkep (antar sampai desa rammang
rammang)
* Rp. 15.000,-
Sewa Perahu Jolloro (085 396 356 325 / Perahu Cinta Sejati)
* Rp. 250.000,- PP (+tour guide)
Angkutan Umum- maros ke pasar maros
* Rp. 5.000,-
Ongkos pete-pete Makassar (Antar sampai makassar "Nusa
Tamalanrea Indah")
* Rp. 8.000,-

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Boat Tour Route

Visitors can enjoy views of the various geosites by staying comfortably on board. In fact,
boat tours without allowing visitors onshore help to minimise human impact on sensitive
geosites and ensure visitor safety at the same time.

Route Theme Time (hour)

Boat Tour of Sai Kung Hexagonal rock columnswave 4

Islands abrasion landform
 Boat Tour of Northeast Bay scenery, island scenery 4
New Territories

Remarks: In view of prevailing wind and strong waves in winter, visitors are advised to
undertake boat tours on fine days with stable weather (summer will be more appropriate).
For safety reason, visitors are advised to stay on board and avoid going on shore the
remote islands.

Geo Tours

Boat Tour of Sai Kung Islands

Spectacular hexagonal volcanic columns are the highlight of this boat tour. As most offshore
islands in Sai Kung are remote, boat tour provides the best way for visitors to appreciate
their scenic beauty. In addition, one can see the diverse morphology of sea caves, sea
stacks and sea arches, as well as depositional landforms such as beaches and tombolos.
Visitors can undertake the boat tours by hiring ferries at Sai Kung Pier.

How to get there

Hire a boat and sail from Sai Kung pier or join local tour.

Boat Enquiries:
Sai Kung Yacht Association: 9167 4941 / 9083 1355
Geographic overview

A region in the southernmost corner of China, Hong Kong is part of

the southeastern Pearl River estuary, neighbouring on Mount
Nanling in the north and South China Sea in the south. Local
topography is hilly with scattered coastal plains. The Hong Kong
SAR comprises Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, the New
Territories which is connected to Mainland China, Lantau Island and
more than 200 outlying islands. Approximate total land area is
1,104 square kilometres.

Hong Kong has a myriad of landforms. The long, sinuous coastline

is indeed a natural geological gallery, featuring spectacular
landforms and rock formations shaped by waves and weathering.
Here, one finds wave-cut sea cliffs, sea caves, sea arches, geos, sea
stacks, notches and blowholes. Lying alongside are beaches, alluvial
plains and mudflats which have come about thanks to millions of
years of sedimentation. Inland areas showcase a variety of
weathering characteristics. Terrain features arising from physical,
chemical or biological weathering effects are prominent across
peaks and valleys, ravines and escarpments.

For further details, please refer to the publication of CEDD: Hong

Kong Geology - A 400-Million Year Journey

History

Years ago(Million)
Over billions of years, the Earth went through many
glacial ages of prolonged low temperature. The last
ice age advanced the evolution of Hong Kong's
landscape. In the last 2 million years, sea level saw a
series of rises and falls. Correspondingly the land
surface of Hong Kong was submerged and exposed
by turns. There were significant temperature
variations during this glacial period. When it was
cold, ice glaciers around the world gained size and
water was solidified into ice on land, Sea level
dropped as the ice melted and land was submerged.
During this time seawater of Hong Kong had dropped
to 120 metres below the modern day level, while the
coastline was 120 kilometres farther to the south.

At the end of the last glacial age, rising sea level

flooded land areas which were once river valleys.
Previous valleys and mid-slopes turned into sinuous
coasts and some peaks became islands the jagged
coastline of Double Haven (Yan Chau Tong) and Sai
Kung and the islands scattered offshore. Indeed,
geological vicissitudes have created the most
stunning masterpieces.
The local climate got warmer and more humid in the
last 60 million years. This change led to chemical
decomposition of surface rocks and a soft loose layer
vulnerable to erosion was established. Erosion
persisted. Terrain features continued to evolve. As a
result Hong Kong is bestowed with enchanting
landforms.

The local climate became extremely dry bout 100

million years ago. Conditions were similar to some
areas of the Middle East today. Storms activated
great and sudden floods. Sharp rocks that came off
the peaks settled below the precipitous slopes,
forming fan-shaped lithic shards between which
intermittent streams coursed down to the lowlands.
Along meandering river channels that flowed only in
the wet season, pebbles settled while in other places
wind carved out striking red sand dunes. Aided by
river sediments these alluvial plains gave rise to the
magenta sedimentary rocks seen today in Hung Shek
Mun and Port Island(Chek Chau) of the Northeastern
New Territories.

Slowly, arid land moistened between 80 million and

50 million years ago. Rainfall was merely sufficient to
form salt lakes nonetheless. In the rainy season when
streams flowed, they washed mud, sand and clay into
these water bodies. At other times the lakes were so
dry the bottom mud cracked open. With the moisture
evaporated, salt crystals appeared. In humid times,
plants could survive and in turn supported the
growth of insects. Remains of dead insects became
fossils in the mud. In low-lying areas around Tung
Ping Chau in the Northeastern New Territories, huge
lakes once existed. As seasons and environments
changed, mud and sand settled orderly in layers of
different grain sizes. They formed range upon range
of sedimentary rocks. These strata, extremely rich in
fossils of plants, spore powder, archaeostraca and
insects, are the youngest rocks in Hong Kong.
Between 165 million and 140 million years ago,
volcanic activities rocked the entire region known as
the southeastern China coast today. With the magma
chamber lying merely 1 to 2 kilometres below
surface, eruptions were violent and produced huge
clouds of volcanic ash. Falling ash and lava spread
across the land, covering small bays and lake beds.
These events changed the original landscape. When
pyroclastic substances cooled down, they became
volcanic rocks that we now see in Sai Kung, Lantau
Island and Tai Mo Shan. In some instances where
eruption-derived substances were so great in volume
that the volcanoes collapsed. Huge round cavities
appeared calderas. When volcanoes were less active,
the calderas may get waterlogged.

According to data for determining the absolute age

of rocks, volcanic eruptions and magma intrusion
activities took a cyclical pulse pattern. There were
great magma intrusions during large eruptions in
every cycle. The intrusive rocks so formed are the
exposed granite distributed across the territory
today, such as the granite strata of Hong Kong Island
and the Kowloon Hills.
Rainfall sometimes led to cyclical saturation of
ground ash cover. For this reason rainfall had been
an important factor in the formation of Hong Kong's
ancient landscape. Water-saturated substances
travelled down the slopes to reach lowlands. These
volcanic mudflows were dense mixtures of water and
ash.

140 million years ago, volcanic eruptions came to an

end. There are no traces of volcanic cones in modern
day Hong Kong because subsequently the mountains
were seriously eroded.
In a later age, sea level dropped considerably. Land
around the edges was exposed and coastal marshes
emerged. Later when these were submerged yet
again their places were taken over by river deltas.
During this time the sea level continued to rise, until
280 million years ago the whole territory became the
bottom of a deep sea with rich deposits of silt and
mud. Following a subsequent period of rising sea
level and erosion, the ocean settled and became a
medium depth environment between 210 million and
190 million years ago. A cover of silt and mud
reappeared and ammonites throve in these waters.
Their remains were buried in the mud for long ages
and formed the fossils now found within mudstone.
In the Early Carboniferous some 360 million years
ago, a transgression induced profound changes to
Hong Kong's landscape. The sea level rose
progressively. Later, between 360 million and 320
million years ago, coastal floodplains were
submerged by the tropical ocean. As there were only
a handful of major rivers going out to sea, freshwater
inflow was lucid and free of sediments. Warm and
relatively silt-free ocean water made favourable
habitats for diverse marine organisms, in particular
those with skeleton and calcium carbonate shells.
These species flourished in abundance. Their debris
and shells settled on the seabed and formed a thick
layer limestone. Covered by sediments, limestone
was exposed to increasing pressure and heat. In time
it was transformed into subterraneous grained white
marble found under some areas of Hong Kong today.
Given the many changes over the ages, fossils in
these rocks are indistinguishable now. A good guess
is that corals and algae, amongst others, lived and
bred here.
The oldest rocks in Hong Kong, formed by
sediments, date back 400 million to 360 million
years. Outcropped stratum can only be seen on the
north coast of Tolo Channel in Northeastern Hong
Kong. In the remote antiquity, stream originating in
the southeastern uplands flowed down the hills,
bringing sediments to settle at the estuaries. As
multiple stream networks washed down sand and
pebbles, local sand dunes were erosion. Meanwhile
the uplands were reduced in elevation as a result of
erosion. Their remaining masses produced finer sand
and silt. The estuary floodplains covered by these
substances were intruded intermittently by seawater.
Local Participation

As a Global Geoparks Network requirement, Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark

welcomes any public or private partnership proposal from the community to
support the sustainable development of the geopark.

Genuine and sustainable local participation

Role of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark Geopark
Principles for partnership recommendations

Local commnity supports activities organized by Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geoparkk
Geo Gourmet

According to the objectives, geopark does not focus on geological and geomorphological
conservation alone; it should also enhance socio-economic development. To promote local
participation, the department has been working as a facilitator to assist local restaurants to
create some geological dishes for visitors, in a way to enrich tourists experience, as well as
enhancing local economy.

One example is the traditional Hakka dishes offered in Kat O Village. In another example, a
number of restaurants in Sai Kung Town, which have long supported the promotion of
geodelicious, participated in a new Hong Kong Global Geopark of China Gourmet
Competition in Sai Kung Town recently. A total of 11 restaurants and cafes joined the
Hong Kong Global Geopark of China Gourmet Competition. The dishes were exceptional,
and what made them even more enjoyable was their innovative geopark-themed
presentation.

(in no particular order)

Okapi Cafe: Surfing Geo-Area Hung Kee Seafood Restaurant:
Hot Magma Bun
Spiral Staircase x Quartz Vein

Tunk Kee Dessert: Chez Raymond De Paris:

Tung Ping Chau Guide Posts Lava-like Assorted Melting Cheese
 Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant:
Organ-like Shrimp (left, from Hoi Pong Street
Man Nin Wah Roasted Meat Restaurant:
Shop);
Layer by Layer
Rock with Fins (right, from Man Nin Street
Shop)

Let's Jam: Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant:

Erupting Lava with Scones Opening the Book of Shale
 Mocktail - Seaside Hexagon: Cocktail - Choco Rocks:
LHOTEL ISLAND SOUTH
LHOTEL ISLAND SOUTH

Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery:

Weathered Pineapple Bun with Butter
Supporting Restaurateurs (in no particular order)

Chez Raymond De Paris

Tel: 6484 1400
Address: G/F, 183D Po Tung Road, Sai Kung

Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant (Hoi Pong Street)

Tel: 2791 1195
Address: G/F, 53 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung

Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant (Man Nin Street)

Tel: 2792 6938
Address: 87-89 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung

Hung Kee Seafood Restaurant

Tel: 2792 1348
Address: 4-8, G/F & 1/F, Siu Yat Bldg, Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung

Lets Jam
Tel: 2791 9888
Address: G/F, 9 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung

LHOTEL ISLAND SOUTH

Tel: 3968 8888
Address: 55 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong

Man Nin Wah Roasted Meat Restaurant

Tel: 2791 7371
Address: G/F & M/F, 28 Wan King Path, Sai Kung

Okapi Cafe
Tel: 2791 5068
Address: G/F, 67 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung

Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery

Tel: 2792 3861
Address: G/F, 6-7 Kam Po Court, 2 Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung

Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant

Tel: 2791 9887
Address: G/F, 33-39, Sai Kung Tai Street, Sai Kung

Tunk Kee Dessert

Tel: 2741 9780
Address: G/F, 53 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung

Tung Kee Seafood Restaurant

Tel: 2791 9886
Address: 11-15, G/F, Siu Yat Bldg, Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung

Wo Kee Restaurant
Tel: 2791 2828
Shop 10, G/F, Kam Po Court, No.2 Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung

Yik Man Restaurant

Tel: 2679 9337
25-26, Kat O Main Street, Kat O Island, Sha Tau Kok, N.T.

Kilim Geo Park and Mangroves Tour

Also known as the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, this 100 square kilometer area in
Langkawi is a nature reserve and a collection of geo-sites full of amazing flora
& fauna, and stunning geological formations like mammoth limestone rocks, fossils,
caves, lagoons, beaches and seascapes.

The whole area is administered and protected by the Peninsular Malaysia Forestry
Department. It is part of the larger Langkawi Geopark and one of the biggest hot
spots of Eco tourism in the entire region.

The approach to the Kilim Geopark is through the Kilim river. You will need to take
a tour on a motor boat that starts from the Kilim Jetty or the Tanjung Rhu bay area
both located at the north eastern end of Langkawi. A guided boat tour would be
ideal to appreciate all the attractions in Kilim Geopark. The Kilim Geopark area
comprises of the river basins of Kilim, Kisap and Air Hangat along with several
islands including Langgun and Tanjung Dendang.

So what do you get to experience? The boat ride will initially take you along the
Kilim river with dense green mangroves (also known as wetland mangroves) on one
side and gigantic limestone rocks on the other rising from the river bed. Some of
these limestone rocks that look like mountains, have been formed some 500 million
years back. The mangroves serve to protect the shoreline from the sea and prevent
soil erosion by forming a barricade.

Kilim Geopark Langkawi, Limestone Cliffs

Keep a watch at the mangrove area and the muddy flats, you will see lots of
amazing animal life. Other than squirrels, mud crabs and monkeys, you will also
see Monitor Lizards that can easily dive and stay underwater for a long time. The
lizards are harmless though. Sometimes you will also see crocodiles. In the waters
there are many varieties of fish (some 40 species) and if you are lucky, you can
also spot a dolphin or even an otter.
There are several species of birds that you can see in the geo park including the
popular kingfishers and kite birds. But the most majestic of all are the reddish
brown eagles that hover around the sky in plenty. You are also likely to spot white
bellied sea eagle which is hard to find elsewhere.

White Bellied Sea Eagle at Kilim Geopark

In about 10 minutes you will reach the Floating Fish Farm. Here you can hand feed
a stingray or even the shooting archer fishes that jump a long way out of the water
to take away the bread piece from your fingers. And then you will be taken to a
calm water area surrounded by high rocks and forest where you will see a grand
spectacle - Eagle Feeding. The boatman stops the engine and the guide throws
some chicken skin pieces into the water. In no time the eagles start swooping in
from the sky, grab the food and take off.

Next you will be taken to the Fossil Island, also known as Pulau Anak Tikus (Pulau
in Malay means island). The boat is tied to a small jetty built to access the tiny
island. After you climb up the narrow stairs, the guide will show you several fossils
on the rocks some of which are 480 million years old. You will walk on a narrow
concrete footbridge that takes you to the other side of the island where there is
another staircase to get down to the water. The boat meanwhile circles around and
moors at this end of the island. This is where we spotted a white bellied sea eagle
flying at a distance over the water.

The next stop is Hidden cave or Gua Langsir. The boat is secured to a small
platform and you will hop out to a staircase that leads to a footbridge. After
climbing down several steep steps, you will reach the lower level where the
footbridge extends to a beautiful lake. The cave here is hidden by the mangrove
roots and therefore called the hidden lake. This is where you will also see
mangroves that are more than 100 years old, and the highest limestone cliffs of
Langkawi that are some 500 million years old.

Kilim Geopark Langkawi

Having spent some 15 minutes at the hidden cave, the boat driver usually takes
you on a fast ride towards the open sea. Some of these boats can really get to high
speed. On the way you will see a small island that looks like a shoe. The locals call
it the Shoe Island. As you boat zooms toward the open sea, on the other side you
will see "Kilim Geoforest Park" written on large white metallic letters on the cliffs.
Depending on your tour itinerary, the operator may then take you to the
lovely Tanjong Rhu beach full of soft white sands and fringed with casuarina trees.
This is where you will spend some 1 hour time swimming (if you so like) and take
some refreshments at the stalls. If you plan to swim, do carry a towel and
swimwear. At the beachside restaurant, chill down with some fresh coconut water
(you get them for RM5) or stroll along the coastal road. There are many stalls
selling clothes and local souvenirs on both sides of the road.

Usually a good tour operator will include lunch. Following your time at the beach,
they will take you to Hole In The Wall restaurant & fish farm for lunch. It's a
floating restaurant and you get lovely view of surrounding water and landscapes as
you dine. The simple lunch which comes as part of the tour package usually
includes fried rice, chicken fries and salad. They also serve lots of chilled pineapple
juice. If you are used to curry or gravy based dishes, you may find the lunch quite
dry. The quantity (portion) is okay, but may not be adequate for some. I thought
the rice used here is of medium quality and nowhere close to Basmati.

After lunch, you are taken to a calm water area on the river which is full of
mangrove swamps on both side. As the boatman brings the boat close to the shore,
large number of monkeys appear from nowhere expecting peanuts to be thrown to
them. The guide actually carries a bag full of peanuts and hands it over to the
passengers to feed the monkeys. Don't be surprised if some of the monkeys come
on board the boat in excitement. They reach no harm though.

Monkey Feeding, Kilim Geopark Langkawi

 Next you will be taken to the Crocodile Cave. You aren't likely to find any crocodiles
here. During the low tide, the boat can pass right through the cave. As you go
under it, you can see great limestone formations as well as many bats. But during
the high tide, you will only have to see the cave from outside.

The final stop is at the Bat Cave. which is located quite close to the Kilim Jetty.
Other than awesome sight of large colonies of bats hanging from the ceiling and
flying all over your head, Bat Cave showcases stunning formations of limestone. In
one such formation, the stalactites and stalagmites have joined to form a single
column. There are also many plants in the area that are centuries old and one of
them is called "Living Fossil".

How to visit the Kilim Geopark & Mangrove

There are many tour operators in Langkawi offering this tours. However many are only
mediators and will only take the group to the jetty and hand over to a boatman
who often double up as a guide. One of the best Kilim Geopark Tours is organized
by Malibest Resort located in Pantai Cenang. While their usual rate is RM120 per
 person, the hotel guests enjoy discounts. They specialize on this tour, provide a
knowledgeable guide speaking English, use air-conditioned vans for transfers
from/to the hotel and design the tour to give you a complete flavor of the Kilim
geopark along with opportunities to swim and spend time at the Tanjung Rhu beach.
Their tour starts at 9:15am, includes lunch at the floating fish farm, and returns
around 3:30pm. It is also a reasonably priced tour compared to many others.

Our boat, parked at a tiny island beach

If you like to be closer to the nature and like to focus more on nature activities like
exploring bird life, animal life, caves and mangroves, then the best option is to go
through either Dev's Adventure Tours or JungleWalla. They are eco tourism
companies and organize both boat and kayak tours to the geopark that are
environment friendly. While their tours are more expensive, they provide expert
guide and great insights into the individual geosites that you visit. The Kayak tour
gets you close to the narrow and smaller water channels, and you can experience
the mangroves and shore flora & fauna from a closer distance. The tours lasts for
4-5 hours. Visit Top Nature Tour Operators to get details of the offerings and
contact information for booking & inquiry.
 Alternatively you can go down to the Kilim Jetty and rent a full boat for yourself. If
you are in a family or small group, it works out to be quite cheaper. A boat costs
about RM250 for two hours and RM300 for 4 hours (the rate varies with the
demand though). For longer rides the hourly rate comes down. Depending on the
size of the boat, it can accommodate between 8 to 10 persons. However one
problem with private boat is that you won't have a guide. The boatman is unlikely
to speak English and would have no knowledge about the places. But you can still
enjoy if you don't care much about the information and history behind the places
you visit. You will need to take a taxi to come to Kilim jetty.

You can also rent a private boat from Tanjung Rhu bay area. Reach the coastal road
that leads to the public beach. You will see a row of stalls selling clothes, food and
souvenir items. Take the dirt road from the backside of the stalls and you will find
boats moored on the river which you can rent by the hour. But you should go there
by 9:30am when the tide is high. If the tide recedes, the boats can not leave.
Tanjung Rhu is about 22kms from Kuah town. You will need to take a taxi to come
here (fare: RM40 from Kuah).

Another great way to explore the Kilim Geopark is by taking a guided Jet Ski tour from
NAAM Sports. They are the only operator who offer such guided tour of the geopark
on jet ski. Their tour operates from Tanjung Rhu beach. Check out Jet Ski
Operators to get the details including contact information for booking and inquiry.

Tips

Carry enough sun lotion and drinking water. While most boats have plastic shades,
there is also some open space for seating. Try to avoid the open sun exposure.
Even while the boat moves and the breeze feels nice, on a sunny day you won't
know how your skin may take a battering from the sun.
 Wear comfortable walking shoes, contton T-shirts, a hat and shorts.

Carry swimwear and towel if your tour offers time at Tanjung Rhu beach.

If you plan for a short tour for an hour or two, then reach the Kilim Jetty, take a boat
and start around 4pm in the afternoon. By this time most of the tour boats would
have returned and you will get a free way of exploring the geopark.

Island Hopping Tour Langkawi

Island Hopping is probably the most popular boat tour in Langkawi and also one of
the cheapest ones. This is a standard tour that usually starts at 9.00 in the morning
and lasts for 3.5 to 4 hours including hotel transfers.

Because of its popularity, this tour is offered by virtually all tour operators, travel
stalls and hotels in the island. It covers three spots that includes wonderful scenic
islands to the south of the main island of Langkawi and eagle feeding where you
can watch the marvelous spectacle of many eagles swooping down from the sky to
catch their prey on the water.

The two islands offer plenty of activities including swimming in scenic fresh water
lake, paddle boating, snorkeling from soft sandy beach, lounging and sunbathing,
or just relaxing and enjoying the stunning scenery all around. The boat tours
usually start from Teluk Baru Jetty located at the southern part of Pantai Tengah
and before Resorts World or Star Cruise Jetty. So if you are staying at Pantai
Tengah or Pantain Cenang areas, the tours would be very convenient.
There are large and small boats. The larger ones can accommodate some 20
persons and the smaller ones 8-10. The tour operators choose the boats according
to the demand. During high tourist season, you may find hundreds of tourists
waiting at the jetty for their boats. All the Island Hopping tours mostly begin
around the same time. You should apply and carry enough sun block lotion to avoid
sun burns and also carry bottles of drinking water.

Here are the spots covered under the Island Hopping Boat Tour of Langkawi (the
sequence may be reversed by some operators)

Pulau Dayang Bunting

This is the first island you will be visiting. It takes about 20 minutes to reach this
fascinating island from Teluk Baru jetty. A total of 1 hour is given to you to spend
here. This includes 10 to 12 minutes one-way walk up the long flight of stairs to go
up the mountain and down from the other side to reach the wonderful Lake of the
Pregnant Woman, and same way back. So come prepared for this nice trek and
carry water bottles.

Lake of the Pregnant Woman, Dayang Bunting

This is a wonderful scenic fresh water lake surrounded by mountains that are
covered with dense forests. The lake was formed when a large underwater cave
collapsed many years back. You will also see large limestone formations.

Pulau Dayang Bunting is part of UNESCO World Heritage Geoparks. Here you can
indulge into several activities like swimming at the lake, solar paddle boating (at
extra charge), natural catfish spa at designated areas to clean up dead cells from
your feet, walk through the forest and see the Miracle Border where the lake is
separated from the sea by a thin rocky ridge, or just lounge on the wooden planks
next to the lake.

From the lake if you look at the mountains at the fringes, you can clearly see an
outline of a woman lying on her back who is 6-7 months pregnant, and thus the
name of the lake.

There are paddle boats available here. Each has a capacity of 2 to 3 persons. If you
do not plan to swim, then this is a good way of going around the lake and
sightseeing. Paddle boat ride costs extra.

Having enjoyed Dayang Bunting island and the lake for about 40 minutes, you will
walk back to the island jetty to get back to your boat. The next stop is the island
Pulau Singa Besar.

Pulau Singa Besar

You come to this island to watch a fantastic natural show - the Eagle Feeding. The
name of the island means "Island of Big Lions", although there are no lions here.
The name was probably given for its shape. The water area here is surrounded by
lush forests. You actually do not get off and remain seated at the boat while
watching this spectacle. If you can come in the morning, you can see some 300 to
350 golden brown eagles swooping down from the sky and feeding on fish from the
water area here.

When you come here as part of the Island Hopping tour, the boatman will stop the
engine and throw some chicken pieces out into the water to invite the eagles. And
in no time you will see eagles diving down just next to you and clawing up the
chicken pieces and eating them as they soar into the sky. We saw some 50 to 60
eagles hovering around and diving for food. You see the sight for about 20 minutes
before proceeding to the next stop - Pulau Beras Basah.

Eagle Feeding

Pulau Beras Basah

This island is the last stop in the tour. The name literally means "Island of wet rice".
This is a picture perfect island with far reaching views of the sea and wonderful soft
white sands. It's a great place for the beach lovers and swimmers. There is a stall
that offers banana boating, jet skis, Parasailing and also beer and some snacks.

Get your snorkel gears if you love snorkeling. This is an excellent snorkeling spot
and you will get to see lots of fish and colorful marine life. Sometimes due to the
passing boats the water gets murky and the water visibility could drop to a meter
or so. This is when snorkeling won't be ideal. The island is an excellent place to
relax. You will get about one hour here. So after a tiring day under scorching sun, if
you just want to lounge and relax, find one of the many shady trees and enjoy the
views as the gentle breeze flows. Otherwise take a stroll along the old pier at the
island.

I would suggest that you bring your own food and beach blanket if you plan to
make a picnic here. Note that there are plenty of monkeys around who will be
constantly targeting your food. So be careful and do not go near them or instigate
them in any way. The monkeys often pull the rubbish out of the beans and make
the area quite dirty. Due to heavy tourist flow, the island and the beach can get
quite crowded at times.

After about an hour at Pulau Beras Basah, you will head back to the Teluk Baru
Jetty and then back to your hotel.

Island Hopping Tour Packages and How to Book

The per person rate for the Island Hopping tour varies from RM35 to RM50
depending on the season and also the tour operator. If you book through your hotel,
the rates are likely to be higher. The travel stalls in Pantai Cenang area are the
cheapest. You will find plenty of them along the road Jalan Pantai Cenang. Usually
hotel transfers in a mini van are included as part of the rate, provided you are put
up in a nearby hotel like in Pantai Tengah or Cenang. But do verify this before
booking.

Or alternatively you can directly go down to Teluk Baru Jetty at the southern end of
Pantai Tengah and book the tour with a boat operator. If you are in a group of 8 or
more, you can book a full boat and the per person rate would turn out to be
cheaper.

Check out Langkawi's Top Tour Boat Operators to know about the best boat
operators in the island, their offerings, rates and how to book.

Rammang-Rammang village has been regconized as UNESCO world heritage site since 2001 and
become a new NATIONAL GEOPARK OF INDONESIA. The area not only presents a unique
landscape but also has archaeological sources of prehistoric caves and its heritage back to
thousand years ago. Were sure its a special place you must visit! Rammang-Rammang is the name
of the remote village in the middle of the karst area. We will take a boat to discover the village. While
crossing the river, we can enjoy the view of towering cliffs. The village offers a beautiful landscape
with green rice fields surrounded by karst mountains, which will keep you busy if you love
photography. You will also meet friendly local people who are working on the rice fields. You will be
meet with the locals by visiting one of the local people houses there to enjoy the warm welcome and
hospitality of the villagers of Rammang Rammang.
 DEFINATION
GEOPARK

Geopark is a territory of the idea of sustainable development with the emphasis on the balance between
heritage conservation and sustainable use of resources. Focus is given to the socio-economic development of
local communities whilst promoting the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. Sustainable tourism and
public education becomes the core strategy of the development of a geopark.

LANGKAWI GEOPARK CONCEPT

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The Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark concept is to develop Langkawi sustainably with the balance of
tourism development, economic activity and conservation of nature and geopark sites. Any development in
geopark areas are permitted as long as it is done in a controlled and planner manner.

Geopark Development concepts:

1. Heritage Conservation

Conservation of geological, biological and cultural heritage

Integrated conservation of natural and cultural heritage
Sustainable utilization of heritage resources without destruction

2. Economy Development

Balancing mass and specialized tourism

Geotourism as a part of knowledge-based tourism
Innovative tourism products

3. Community Development

Community as a key player

Capacity building of local community
Education on Heritage
Strengthening of Shared Values

Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark emphasis on local community involvement and economic development.
Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark plays multiple roles in the sustainable development to protect area for
special geoheritage value, to protect and conserve biological, historical, and archaeological heritage. In order
to achieve the objectives, awareness programs and environmental education are organized for the public.
Scientific research is encouraged with focusing to explore new information and finding on scientific matters
and to make tourism delivery and enriching the tourist experience. Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is
responsible to promote local socio-economic.

PROFILE
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Langkawi was endorsed as the 52nd Global Geopark on 1st June 2007 by UNESCO and it became the first
established Global Geopark in Malaysia and South East Asia. Langkawi is certified as the Global Geopark
because of the well-established management, significant richness of its geological diversity, biological
diversity, cultural heritage and community involvement.

The island covers an area of 478 km2 with stunning landscape and sceneries resulted by various geological
processes that have occurred around 500 million years ago.

POSITION
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Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands and situated between 6o 10 to 6o 30N and longitude of 99o 35 to
100oE. The land area of Langkawi is about 478km2 with about 60% of forest reserves. The rest of the land
area is used for economic activities, residential, town area and public amenities. Langkawi is located in the far
northwestern corner of Peninsular Malaysia and it is a district under Kedah State. It consists of six sub-districts,
which are Ayer Hangat, Kedawang, Padang Matsirat, Ulu Melaka, Bohor & Kuah. Langkawis main economic
activities are tourism, which consists of nature based and eco related tourism.

The whole 99 islands of Langkawi represent Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. Every rock structure that
emerges from the ocean floor, every corner of the lush tropical forest and every island in the archipelago, the
surrounding waters and marine ecosystems, villages and countryside.
COMPONENT
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Conservation
Geoheritage
Biological Diversity Conservation
Cultural Heritage

Tourism Infrastructure Development

Hotels/ Resorts
Education/Exhibition
Research/Recreation
Public Awareness

Socio-Economic Development
Economic Activities
Local Participation
New Opportunities

INTERPRETIVE CENTRE
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Langkawi Geopark Interpretive Centre is open since January 2007. The infocenter functions as one stop center
for tourist looking for more information on Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. This Interpretive Center
currently located at Oriental Village also as a gallery for rocks, fossils and minerals that is unique to Langkawi
Geopark. Among the display are rocks from four prominent formations in Langkawi namely, Machinchang
Formation, Setul Formation,Singa Formation and Chuping Formation and granite of Gunung Raya.
TAGS: CONTENT SLIDER

GALLERY LANGKAWI UNESCO

GLOBAL GEOPARK
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Langkawi Geopark Interpretive Centre is open since 2015 by Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)
currently located at Kompleks LADA. The gallery as one stop center for tourist looking for more information
about Langkawi development history and geopark itself in term of writing, photos and audio-video of
Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. Most of the research book have been published related to geology and
geopark.
CONCEPT GEOFOREST PARK
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The Langkawi Geopark concept is to develop Langkawi sustainably with the balance of tourism development,
economic activity and conservation of nature and geopark sites. Any development in geopark areas are
permitted as long as it is done in a controlled and planner manner.

There are three conservation areas called

geoforest park within Langkawi UNESCO
Global Geopark.
I. Machinchang Cambrian Geforest Park
II. Kilim Karst Geforest Park
III. Dayang Bunting Marble Geforest Park
These geoforest parks are special conservation area that sit within forest reserve. the parks show geological and
biological heritage that is outstanding in term if aesthetic, scientific, cultural and recreational values.

MACHINCANG CAMBRIAN
GEOFOREST PARK
Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park has the built up area of 4,274 hectares with the oldest rock formations,
namely the Machinchang Formation. Despite the ancient aged rocks, 550 million years old (Cambria-
Geologys age), the sandstone in this area has proven that it can withstand weathering and tectonics activities.
The peak of the Machinchang shows that the sand rocks have been chopped which relates to the legend of Mat
Cincang and Mat Raya. Among the important geosites in this area includes; Teluk Datai, Pantai Pasir
Tengkorak, Tanjung Buta and Tanjung Sabung. Other than those areas, the recent geological process have
been formed, among which are the Air Terjun Temurun, Air Terjun Telaga Tujuh, Pulau Anak Datai, Pulau
Anak Burau and Tanjung Chinnchin.

The Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park is the main attraction for visitors who are interested in getting on
the cable car ride. In supporting the tourist activities here, the Oriental Village, which is the business centre,
has been built around the foothills of Gunung Machinchang. Oriental Village has souvenir shops, restaurants,
spas, animal farm and Langkawi Geopark Information Centre. Around the premise, there are many activities
that can be explored, among which are horse riding, jungle trekking, camping and picnic.

Consists of the oldest rock formations in the South East Asia and Malaysia, aged 490 550 million
years, namely the Machinchang Formation (sandstone and siltstone).
The main geotrail to the peak of Gunung Machinchang is via the cable car which provides for the
steepness of 90 degrees which makes it the steepest cable car in the world. At the height of 709
metres above sea level, visitors can take in the 360 degrees breathtaking view
There are several protected geology sites in this area which are; Tanjung Chinchin, Air Terjun Telaga
Tujuh, Air Terjun Temurun, Pantai Teluk Datai and Pulau Anak Datai.
The plants surrounding the peak of Gunung Machinchang are unique and most of the plants here are
low almost like forest shrubs. Among the plants that can be found here are; Tongkat Ali (eEurycoma
longifolia), Kelat Bukit and Podo Bukit (Podocarpus neriifolius).
According to the local folklore, Machinchang refers to a giant named Mat Machinchang whom had a
fight with Mat Raya during the wedding ceremony of their children until Mat Sawar broke up the fight,
alas, to no avail.
FACTS
Machinchang Formation aged 490 550 million years old.
The built up area is 4,274 hectares
The built up area is 4,274 hectares

TELUK DATAI & PULAU ANAK DATAITANJUNG BURAU & PULAU ANAK BURAUCABLE CAR
TRAILPASIR TENGKORAK TRAILTANJUNG BUTAAIR TERJUN TELAGA TUJUHAIR TERJUN
TEMURUN
It is located in the lower part of Machinchang Formation and is considered as the most ancient rocks in Langkawi
and Malaysia. This island is formed in affect from the continuous erosion on the ancient cape. This island is joined
at times with the main land by a tombolo (mound) on a low tide.

EDUCATION

SCHOOL TO GEOPARK
The School Goes To Geopark Program are outdoor activities where the students are taken to the geosites. The
learning process is carried out with a variety of activities on the field.

The module for this program includes the history of Langkawi, the mangrove forests eco-system, flora and
fauna, geology and local cultures. This program is held twice a month on a regular basis, and each program
involves 45 students.

GEOPARK TO SCHOOL
This is a program for students which consist of introductory modules. It introduces the importance and roles of
students as the next generation to protect and preserve the nature heritage of Langkawi Global Geopark. The
program is conducted for 2 hours, towards the end of the program, the students will be evaluated on their
understanding of geopark knowledge through quizzes and presentation. This program is held twice a month on
a regular basis. Each program involves between 60 to100 students.

GEO TEACHER
The Geo-school program provides exposure to the concept and the role of teachers/schools towards Langkawi
Global Geopark.

This program will expose the teacher in the aspect of awareness environmental protection and nature
conservation. Modules for this program include the introduction to Langkawi Global Geopark, nature and
heritage preservation, and conservation awareness. The outcome of this program would be the schools active
involvement in implementing activities that promotes and supports the continuation of Langkawi Global
Geopark. This program is being conducted every month involving 45 teachers per session.
CULTURE
CONCEPT OF CULTURE
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The CONCEPT OF CULTURE is defined as the values, beliefs and languages that influence the manner in
which an individual or a group of people sees the environment and the world they live in. Cultural heritage is
an important component in a geopark in the context of conservation and heritage preservation. Langkawi
UNESCO Global Geopark is the best place to study the socio-economic development that occurs in a small
area with limited resources in an island community. The communities are rich in legends and folklores that
have been passed down from generations to generations. Many of the early history of Langkawi are related to
the history of the ancient kingdoms of Malaya that have economic relations, culture and politics. Economic
activities in Langkawi still persist with traditional practices and enhanced in value through elements of tourism.

The principles of cultural heritage:

1. Cultural heritage is an importance component and a major tourist attraction in Langkawi UNESCO
Global Geopark.
2. Cultural heritage encompasses cultural heritage that are tangible and intangible.
3. Cultural heritage symbolises the continuity of the history and identity of the local community, thus
local community should be engaged in the identification and conservation of the cultural heritage of
Langkawi.
4. The identification and conservation of cultural heritage are to benefit the residents of Langkawi.

Among the cultural heritage that are related to legends and folklores are as follows:

1. Gunung Machinchang.
2. Telaga Tujuh
3. Beras Terbakar
4. Makam Mahsuri
5. Pulau Dayang Bunting
6. Gua Langsir
7. Gua Cerita
Biosite
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Biosites of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark

There are four types of geoheritage conservation mechanism in Langkawi Global Geopark, namely geosites,
geological monuments, and geoforest park and landscape of scenic areas. These geoheritage conservation
mechanisms are being implemented at various stages from planning to establishment and monitoring. Under
Langkawi Geopark Management Plan, Biodiversity Group of Malaysia has identified nine potential bio sites
for biological conservation in Langkawi Global Geopark.

These bio sites are identified based on the presence of rare and endemic species where the original location of
the species was found and described. The nine bio sites are :-

i) Gunung Raya
ii) Wat Wanaram
iii) Lubuk Semilang
iv) Telaga Tujuh
v) Pulau Singa Besar
vi) Sungai Kilim
vii) Sungai Temurun
viii) Gua Kelawar
ix) Teluk Datai.

Although only nine bio sites are identified so far, this number is bound to increase in the future when more
sites for the biologically important flora, invertebrate fauna and marine flora fauna groups are included.
 Sustainable Development Geopark in Indonesia
Geo-parks are the areas which include natural geographic characteristics required to be protected due
to their significant scientific values and features. Sustainable regional development, which is one of
the main aims of geoparks, is based directly on geo-tourism. Just as some innovations, which geo-
parks have brought about in nature conservation concept, geo-tourism has caused new implications in
touristic activities. Furthermore, one of the main strategic objectives of a Sustainable development
Geopark is to stimulate economic activity within the framework of sustainable development. A
Geopark need to foster socio-economic development that is culturally and environmentally
sustainable. It hopes has a direct impact on the area involved by improving human living conditions
and the rural and urban environment.

In addition, Indonesia is a country rich with natural and cultural resources, which have the potential
to be developed further the tourism sector. Located in the ring of fire, Indonesia has unique
geological features, these geological areas that contained geodiversity and biodiversity. The
geological area is one of the important heritage, it contains the history of mankind in the area. There
are world heritages and 50 national parks in Indonesia that existed on geological bases and have
geological meanings. The Indonesian government have nominated 7 areas as the global geopark to
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The seven sites
nominated for international geopark from 2014 until 2017 are: Merangin-Jambi, Sewu, Lake Toba,
Rinjani, Raja Ampat, Parahyangan, Pangandaran dan Northern part of Bandung (West Java) and
Maros-Sulawesi Selatan. The geoparks are frequently visited by tourists and scientist.

Nevertheless, Geo-tourism located at Indonesia geopark scattered throughout the region, but has not
been developed. Until now, Indonesia has only two global geopark region. Indonesia is still less
competitive than China in 2012 already has about 140 national geopark and 28 of them including the
UNESCO global geopark network. China also have linked its geopark network with scholarly
research on this filed, while in Indonesia there has only been few research conducted in the
Indonesian geopark. In terms of sustainable tourism development, Indonesian Geopark is integrated
between geological potential and cultural heritage area, but they not used to promote the
development of local communities in a sustainable manner. Low environment sustainability to be one
of the factors that cause travelers less inclined to come back to geo destinations in Indonesia. There
are seven geoparks in Indonesia, only two with International recognition: Batur Global Geopark and
Sewu Global Geopark.

This study aims to explore the geo-tourism resources in geopark in Indonesia, and how it is linked to
sustainable development. Moreover, this study will identify the characteristic of local social-
economic community in geopark area, and explore their participation in sustainable development
geopark.
Kawasan karst maros-pangkep terbentang seluas 43.750 hektar yang terdiri dari areal penambangan seluas 20.000
hektar dan 23.000 hektar lainnya menjadi bagian dari 43.750 hektar kawasan konservasi Taman Nasional
Bantimurung. Pembagian tersebut dilakukan karna pada saat akan di usulkan menjadi taman nasional, dikawasan ini
sudah banyak perusahaan yang mendapat izin melakukan kegiatan penambangan, Diantaranya PT. Semen Bosowa ,
PT. Semen Tonasa dan puluhan perusahaan lainnya yang menambang batu marmer dan batu kapur.

Penambangan yang dilakukan di kawasan karst Maros-Pangkep ini merupakan ancaman terhadap ekosistem dan
keleatarian situs gua dan tinggalan budaya prasejarah yang tersimpan didalamnya.

Salah satu aspek ekosistem yang terancam adalah ketersediaan air tanah yang berada di sekitar kawasan karst.

Dari tinjauan hidrologis, daerah karst berpotensi sebagai wadah cadangan air, Hal ini terlihat pada beberapa gua
yang didalamnya terdapat sungai bawah tanah, disamping itu.

Dikawasan ini di jumpai sejumlah sumber air berupa sungai besar dan sebagian besar bermuara di air terjun
bantimurung.

Selain dikhawatirkan mengancam ketersediaan air, Aktivitas pertambangan juga di khawatirkan dapat
menghilangkan bukti-bukti sejarah karena gua-gua tersebut menyimpan sejumlah artefak sisa peradaban manusia
prasejarah.

Kawasan karst Maros-pangkep yang berada di areal Taman Nasional Bantimurung-Bulusaraung merupakan
kawasan karst terluas di indonesia dan terluas ke dua di dunia setelah cina. Kawasan ini sudah di tunjuk sebagai
kawasan Taman Nasional melalui surat Keputusan Mentri Kehutanan nomor 398/menhut/II/2004 tentang perubahan
fungsi cagar alam, taman wisata alam, hutan lindung, hutan produksi terbatas dan hutan produksi tetap.