1. file pic: the chimney
One of Labuan’s famous landmarks is the Chimney Tower, located along Jalan Merdeka on the main island.
An icon and symbol of pride to the locals, the Chimney is a compulsory visit when you make a trip to this Federal Territory.
2. my travel mates and I pose at the Chimney
A fairly new tourism product in the area is the Chimney Walking Trail, which I encourage you to participate in, if you are already in the vicinity.
During my trip to Labuan in April, I visited the Chimney Museum. Read about my observation here.
3. file pic: Assistant Curator Pn. Nurlina explains about the Chimney Walking Trail
At the time, I was also taken on the Chimney Walking Trail, but we were unable to complete the trek as it was high tide. This time, the tide was low and we could complete the trek.
4. file pic: start of the walking trail
5. file pic: one of the views
Stretching a distance of 4km to 5km in total, the trail takes participants right up to Gedung Ubat (ammunition store), believed to be where the Imperial Japanese Army stored their armament and ammunition during World War II.
6. file pic: ammunition store (Gedung Ubat)
7. file pic: view to the South China Sea
From there, the panoramic view of South China Sea welcomed us, as we strolled 150 metres to Raffles Anchorage. This is where the excitement begins, but only if it’s low tide. Remember, during high tide, the trail ends here as this section is totally off limits.
8. file pic: a calm day
9. awesome spot for photography
During my initial trip, it was high tide and this was where we had to turn back. This time, we were able to proceed. The sight was mesmerising, I opine. Just look at my photos and tell me otherwise.
10. crystal clear waters below
11. file pic: this way to the Raffles Anchorage is 150 metres
Our walk to this spot was definitely worth the effort, not to say that it was a difficult trek but long walks may not be everyone’s idea of a fun vacation, I have to admit.
12. arriving at Raffles Anchorage
There are plenty of photo-taking opportunities here at the tip of Kubong, and I can see that it is an ideal model-shooting location, too, when the weather is fine.
A short walk from here is a mini tunnel, known as a “cave” by locals, that could pose a challenge for larger-sized people, but don’t worry, they can take the normal walking path to continue with the trail.
13. discovering the King & Queen of Raffles Anchorage, Eka & Lily
The more adventurous can proceed to the tomb of Alice Watson and her baby, Elizabeth. Alice was the wife of John Watson, an officer at a coal mining company in the area in the 1800s. She died from a tropical disease two days after childbirth. Elizabeth did not survive as well.
14. low tide
15. Adela strikes a pose
Our group did not enter the jungle in search of Alice Watson, even though we were informed that it’s just a dug ground now, without her remains. Certainly, it felt creepy, so let’s leave that for another day.
16. matching blue
17. Kenta sits atop the boulder to take the sight in
The return trip from this point onwards is along a sandy beach, then through a village, before reaching the Chimney Museum.
18. the beauty of low tide
19. at the tip of Kubong
As mentioned, I visited the Chimney Museum and its Tower as well as participated in the Chimney Walking Trail seven months ago.
Truth be told, I did not expect too much from this repeat visit. However, I have to say that I was surprised by this hidden gem. I think that low tide is the season to take in the best scenery of Labuan. Do you agree with me?
Chimney Walking Trail @ Chimney Museum (Muzium Chimney)
Add: Lot 2, Tingkat Bawah, Bangunan Tabung Haji, Jalan Kesuma, 87008 Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan, Malaysia.
Tel: +6087-463 603
Fax: +6087-414 462
Email: pr.mc@jmm.gov.my
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2 Comments
At November 21, 2018, thomas wrote:
Dangerous cliff here,there are some nice sea caves below
At November 22, 2018, Emily wrote:
Yup, Thomas! Scary, especially after reading about so many deaths from selfie.