Tasik Puteri - Bukit Besi

Tasik Puteri, Bukit Besi

Bukit Besi

town of Bukit Besi during its peak moments

Bukit Besi is a small town in the Dungun district of Terengganu. Its name means "Iron Hill". This name came about because Bukit Besi was the site of old tin mines which used to operate there. The mines of Bukit Besi are now filled with water to form Tasik Puteri.

picture of Bukit Besi iron mine

The iron ore mine which now forms Tasik Puteri once held the distinction of being the largest iron mine in the world. During the Japanese Occupation, iron mining was handled by the Nippon Mining Company. After the war was over, the British took over the mines between 1945 and 1947, when it was sold to the Eastern Mining Company.

the cave/tunnel in Bukit Besi iron mine

As the iron ore of Bukit Besi became depleted in the 1960's, continual operations was no longer profitable. It was eventually shut down in the early 1970's. Today visitors to Bukit Besi can still visit the tin plants, stockpile buildings and tunnels used during the tin-mining days. The rail tracks and rail carts can still be seen in Bukit Besi.

today, Bukit Besi has beautiful golf course

 

Tasik Puteri

While already at Bukit Besi, I would suggest you to go next door to the beautiful Tasik Puteri...the lake created by the abandoned iron ore mining operation by the Japanese during the World War II.

beautiful and peaceful scenery of the Lake

Do not be surprised by the existence of a small waterfall here. This small waterfall is populated during weekends.

visitors swim near the waterfall of Tasik Puteri

shallow portion of the waterfall, suitable for family

another splendid view of Tasik Puteri

Tasik Puteri once had been the host for canoeing event of SUKMA

Perhaps, one should drop by at this beautiful lake after driving from Kuantan to Kuala Terengganu by Jabor Highway. Park the car underneath of the shadow of the tree and take a rest here for few moments. You will feel fresh to continue your journey. I think you will come here again...perhaps with your family for an overnight stay...