Water usually has a calming effect on people – whether it’s a babbling brook, a calm lake or a cascading waterfall – and these spots make ideal places for rest and relaxation.

Children having fun at a stream in Bukit La Gong

Those who like calm lakes can visit Pahang where Tasik Bera, the largest natural freshwater lake in Peninsular Malaysia, and Tasik Chini are located. Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu, however, holds the record as being the largest manmade lake in South-east Asia. The lake also acts as Malaysia’s largest rock-filled hydroelectric dam!

The Paya Indah Wetland (Selangor) is also a lovely getaway where you can explore the wonders of nature. Once a barren land from years of tin mining and logging, this rehabilitated ecosystem is currently a habitat to lush vegetation and thriving wildlife.

It’s always fun to have a picnic at riverbanks and waterfalls. If cascading falls and running streams are your cup of tea, then you should visit places such as Kanching Falls (Kuala Lumpur), Ulu Bendol (Negeri Sembilan) or Lata Kijang (Perak). However, if you prefer rivers, you should note that Malaysia’s longest river can be found in Sarawak, and it’s called Sungei Rejang.