Mumbai : Every year kite enthusiasts across the world flock to PasirGudang, a place in Johor, Malaysia which is known worldwide as the Best Kite Festival organizer. This internationally acclaimed event has been hosted continuously since 1995. The 18th PasirGudang World Kite Festival 2013 will be held on 19th February until 23th February 2014.

From a  modest start with just 11 foreign participants coming from 5 countries, the world kite festival has grown significantly throughout time attracting hundreds of thousands visitors and kiting enthusiasts from all over the world. Last year over 180 international kite flyers from 25 countries came to PasirGudang to experience the best organized kite festival.

PasirGudang World Kite Festival is jointly organized by PasirGudang Municipal Council (MPPG) and Johor State of Government, Johor Tourism Department, Johor Art & Culture Department and Johor Kite Association with cooperation various governmental agencies.

 The festival includes many domestic and international contests, demonstrations, spectacular ground displays, and some of the most amazing kites you will ever see.

 “The festival is aimed at encouraging and celebrating the skills and creativity of the local and international kite enthusiasts. Also by conducting such recreational sport festivals we can strengthen and enhance our bond with other countries.” Says Mr. Manoharan Periasamy, Director-Tourism Malaysia, Mumbai.

PasirGudang Kite Museum

PasirGudang Kite Museum or MuziumLayang-LayangPasirGudang is the first of its kind in Malaysia. Built as an appreciation towards the contribution of Malaysian and International kite flyers. Opening its door for the first time in February 2002 during the 7th PasirGudang Kite Festival.

 Housing a collection of more than 200 kites which once roamed the skies of Bukit Layang-Layang as well as hundreds of the traditional kite heritage of Malaysia known as Wau, it also houses a collection of Ceramic Vases.

The PasirGudang Kite Museum is located about 20km east of Johor Bahru city, roughly a 35minutes drive from Johor Bahru.

Apart from the famous kite festival one can leisurely spend time exploring Johor, as it has a lot to offer to its visitors and is considered to be one of the popular tourists spot.  Johor has a myriad of treasures, from the lushes green forest, the scenic view from the mountain, cascading waterfalls, to the magnificent sky scrapers in the city. Explore the state of culture and heritage, and be mesmerised with its beauty and charms. To name a few must see attractions includes:

1. Istana Besar and Royal Abu Bakar Museum

The former palace of the Sultan of Johor, the Istana Besar, is in the esteem of many, the top attraction in the city. Built back in 1866, the Grand Palace is now a first-rate museum and cultural institution, with scores of precious relics.

 

2. Masjid Negeri Sultan Abu Bakar

The state mosque of Johor is the paragon religious landmark in Johor Bahru and a major attraction as well. Another eclectic piece of architecture, so typical of Malaysia, the mosque is mainly English Victorian, with strong hints of Moorish and Malay. Built in the late 19th century at the behest of Sultan Abu Bakar, the mosque is a definite must-see.

3. Istana Bukit Serene

The royal palace and official residence of the Sultan of Johor provides a stellar vantage point of Singapore and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Built in 1932, the landmark actually features many flourishes of the dominant style of the time – Art Deco. While not officially open to the public, visitors can get relatively close to the palace from the waterfront.

4. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Hindu Temple

Johor Bahru’s pre-eminent Hindu temple is a heritage place of worship for a vibrant community. Open to visitors, the “glass” temple contains many superlative interior features.

5. Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim

The primary bastion of Johor’s state government, the Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim demonstrates the many architectural styles that dot Malaysia’s urban landscape. Built in the years prior to the outbreak of World War II, the landmark combines Malay and colonial influences.

6. LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort

The LEGOLAND Hotel turns a day the family will always remember into a stay they will never forget. Designed to bring children’s imaginations to life, it boasts brightly coloured LEGO features throughout bedrooms, play areas and restaurants. The LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort brings together a LEGOLAND Theme Park, Water Park and Hotel in one LEGO® themed location. It is a family holiday destination with more than 70 hands-on rides, slides, shows and attractions. The LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort is designed for families with children aged 2-12. It is the first of its kind in Asia and offers adventure, education and fun for action-packed day trips or short break destination.

7. Hello Kitty town

Hello Kitty town located in Puteri harbor since its inception in 1978 has been the most popular character for kids and adults all over the world and now Malaysia gives the world a chance to experience and meet the most adorable and favorite cat, in person. Located in the vibrant city of Nusajaya, this resort is a combination of fun and games, not just limited for the kids, it’s a place where the kids celebrate their childhood and adults take a trip down memory lane to the good old days.

 

 

 

8. Johor Premium outlets

Located at the southern tip of peninsular Malaysia, Johor Bahru is sure to amuse one with the assortment of destinations and activities it can offer. One amongst which is the Premium shopping outlets where you will see shoppers flocked from around the world to find all the big signature names such as in one location and seeing them all on sale makes it a paradise for shopaholicsJohor Premium Outlets is a collection of 120 designer and name brand outlet stores featuring saving of 25% to 65% every day. Premium outlet is a portfolio of outlet shopping centers which brings together the finest brands in unique outdoor settings and offers impressive savings of 25 to 65 percent every day

9. Island Hopping Johor is surrounded by many small islands each with spectacular tourists attractions. One can opt for the island hopping tour in Johor in order to explore some of the most beautiful islands of Malaysia. To name a few are as follows:

·         PulauRawaRawa Island is located off the east coast of Johor, Malaysia. It is situated approximately 16km away from the town of Mersing. It is under the Johor Marine Park with other famous islands such as Dayang Island, Aur Island and etc. It is well known of its fascinating spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. Another interesting activity is windsurfing.

·         Sibu Island Tucked away in a private corner of the South China Sea, Sibu island is Johor’s idyllic island getaway located off the East Coast of Malaysia, which is just 30 mins journey by the boat and you can be assured of a sanctuary from the daily pressures with the holistic answer to refresh body and mind, and rejuvenation to the spirit. Four white, sandy beaches and seven dreamy islets around the island are just waiting to be explored.

·         Kukup Island Kukup Island is located at the southernmost part of Johor, Malaysia. It is 1km off shore of the state Johor. It is entirely covered by mangroves and mudflats. Kukup Island or PulauKukup is one of the biggest inhabited mangrove sites in the world. There are various species of wildlife there in the national park. They are monkeys, wild boar, mudskipper and much more.

So if you plan to visit this magnificent kite festival, you are sure to witness a bundle of other surprises in terms of destinations, food, culture historical monuments etc. that the city of Johor has to offer you.

Where to stay:

·         The Puteri Pacific Johor Bahru HotelThePuteri Pacific Hotel Johor Bahrustrategically located in the heart of Johor Bahru exudes sterling international standards blended with the quiet charm of traditional Malaysian hospitality in a rich tapestry of comfort and luxury.

Traders Hotel PuteriHarbouris the first international hospitality brand in Nusajaya, strategically positioned in the heart of a 688-acre waterfront precinct. Hotel guests will enjoy modern lifestyle components, world-class facilities and an excellent network of infrastructure.The hotel is also close to renowned theme parks (LEGOLAND® Malaysia and PuteriHarbour Family Theme Park) and Johor’s administration capital, Kota Iskandar.

Thistle Johor Bahru Hotelthe Thistle Johor Bahru hotel provides the very best of Malaysia, including our legendary hospitality. Thistle Johor Bahru has 382 fully refurbished bedrooms, including 125 executive luxury rooms with spectacular sea views over the Straits of Johor. This malaysian hotel also boasts three restaurants, two bars, an outdoor ‘resort-style’ swimming pool, and fitness centre with spa.

 Source : Sachin Murdeshwar