Today, the road from Kuala Kangsar to Gerik is a modern 4-lane highway. This has delighted a lot of frequent travellers along that part of the country. However, the highway has by-passed several towns and villages which were once important ports of call from the weary travellers. But, somehow, these towns have survived and some people still stop at towns like Ayer Kala, Lenggong and Sauk for their breakfast, lunch or dinner before continuing their journey. Although these towns are off the highway, people are still willing to turn into the old road to these place to taste their famous freshwater delicacies.
At the main road in Lenggong town is this famous restaurant which sells the famous Lenggong fish-balls. These fish-balls are made from fish caught from the nearby river and lakes and are more springy or bouncy than those sold at other places.
On the main road too, is the Lenggong post office. It is still located in the same old building which was built years ago. In most other places, post office like this would have been replaced by some ugly modern one. This post office has a character of its own.
Not too far from the Post Office are two more restaurants which sell the famous Lenggong fish-balls and also a whole variety of fresh water fish dishes. On certain days, even fresh water frogs are available. It must be said that all three restaurants are good but each has its own style of preparing the dishes. So it is up to the individual to give the verdict as to which is actually the "best". Whatever fish you order, please remember to ask about the price first because some variety of fresh water fish can be quite expensive.
THE LENGGONG MUSEUM OF ARCHEOLOGY
This signpost is placed at the junction of the main road and the smaller road leading to the museum. It is just a few kilometers from Lenggong town.
The entrance to the museum is rather unique and is made to look like cave. Admission the museum is free.
The museum is proud to house the story of how the remains of the Perak Man was found and the discovery of the existence of a very early civilization. There are a lot of displays like the ones above and also ancient artifacts from archeological work done in the area.
This is a urinal pot - for people of the olden times who are just too lazy to go to the toilet at night. It is part of the exhibits displayed at the maritime exhibition section.
The museum has outdoor exhibits too. Here rocks and their characteristics and time of their formation are being displayed. It will give the geography teachers great happiness to bring their students here for a better understanding of rock formation.
LATA KEKABU
Nearby is a popular picnic spot by a beautiful waterfall - named Lata Kekabu. On weekends, the crowd will be there. This place is well kept and the surrounding is peaceful. However the road leading to this waterfall is quite narrow and one should drive slowly and carefully.
This is the entrance to the waterfall and there is ample parking space for cars. This place is very spacious and there is a lot of room for people to sit under the shade of trees. There are changing rooms too so one need not hide behind bushes to change clothes.
As we enter the place, we can see a wooden foot bridge across the steam of clean and clear water. There will be a signboard after the bridge to show directions. Just follow the directions and you will come to a "hanging bridge" where you can go on to see the waterfall. Do be careful because some of the other bridges further up are not in very good condition and are in need of repair.
TASIK RABAN RESORT
On the way back to Kuala Kangsar, we stopped at the Tasik Raban Resort. This place is located at the lake side and has numerous chalets for rent. It is a haven for anglers because the lake is full of freshwater fish.
Here we see a row of chalets which are suitable for small families and they all provide a good view of the lake. The rental rates are reasonable too. It is managed by the Lenggong District Council which can be contacted through 05-7512799 or through its website - www.mdlg.gov.my
This is the resort restaurant and it is located on the opposite side of the lake. It serves some good freshwater dishes and will also cook fish caught by its guests.
To move around the area, one could rent these bicycles. It will provide you with good exercise because the air at the countryside is fresh and clean. It also gives you a chance to have a closer look at the countryside, which you may not be able to do if you were to drive a car.
KAMPUNG BARU SAUK
For lunch, we stopped at Kampung Baru Sauk, a few kilometers away from Lenggong towards Kuala Kangsar. This small village is famous for its river fish dishes. On weekdays, at lunch time, this place looks rather quiet but at night, especially on weekends, the place is so crowded that one may have to wait for some time to get an empty table.
