Mengkuang Dam

Note - this place seems closed for upgrading works (as of 23 Feb 2014). If you happen to know why and when it will re-open please leave a comment. Tx...

Empangan Mengkuang or commonly known as Mengkuang Dam is one of Penang's water reservoir located in Mainland Penang. The other famous dams in Penang include the Air Itam Dam and the Teluk Bahang Dam.

You know what, I've seen dams, but never seen a Hydro-Electric Dam, those must be even more huge!

Few weekends ago we decided to go to Mengkuang Dam. The place offers a serene view, nice jogging track along the damn, benches for family and grass to just sit, loiter and enjoy the view and breeze. People come here to relax, jog and exercise, and take a break from the hectic life.

Last checked (26 Feb 2010), Alhamdulillah the dam still has lots of water during this drought

Empangan Mengkuang also offers some nice picturesque spots and views for those into photography.

Pretty nice sunset. I'd say the sunrise here would be spectacular

Parking itself if a lot, however it does get quite full during the weekends.

Notice the parking area behind me, yes, rather large

Getting to Mengkuang Dam is a little tricky to the non-locals of the area.

How to get to Mengkuang Dam / Getting there :

The best way to get there would probably be by getting on the Kulim Highway (BKE), if coming from Penang, means heading towards Kulim, and take exit Penanti / Berapit. Once you have exited, if memory serves me correct take the right, i.e towards Berapit and drive along. The drive would be around 10 minutes after the toll exit. If you're looking for a LARGE signboard written "Welcome to Mengkuang Dam / Selamat Datang ke Empangan Mengkuang", well just continue looking as I never found it. Instead look for a rather medium sized sign-board showing PBA (the water authority of Penang). Following the sign, i.e turning right on the long winded road brings you into Mengkuang Dam, just drive up and look for parking.

Ok enjoy nature.