Kusu Island, which means "Tortoise Island" in Chinese, is also known as Peak Island or Pulau Tembakul in Malay. From 2 tiny outcrops on a reef, the island was enlarged and transformed into an 8.5-hectare island holiday resort.
Legend has it that a magical tortoise turned itself into an island to save 2 shipwrecked sailors - a Malay & a Chinese. Each year during the ninth lunar month (falls around Sep to Nov according to the Lunar Calendar), thousands of devotees flock here for their annual Kusu Pilgrimage to pay homage for good health, peace, happiness, good luck and prosperity.
Kusu Island is well developed today, mainly to support the steady stream of worshippers to the shrines on the island. On the ninth month of lunar calendar, more than 100,000 people still throng the island's Da Ba Gong Temple (or Temple of the Merchant God). The island with its two swimming lagoons is also a popular destination for day-trippers to enjoy the sun and sand.
Ontop the rugged hillock stand three Kramats (holy shrines of Malay Saints) to commemorate a pious man (Syed Abdul Rahman), his mother (Nenek Ghalib) & sister (Puteri Fatimah) who lived in the 19th century. Many devotees will climb the 152 steps leading to the Kramats to pray for wealth, good marriage, good health and harmony. The shrines are also popular with childless couples who would pray for children.
Located just 5.6km away from Singapore, Kusu Island is also well loved for its blue lagoons, pristine beaches and tranquil settings. Visitors can pay a visit to the wishing well and Tortoise Sanctuary as well.
Overnight stay is not allowed on Kusu Island.
Ticket Information:
Sale of tickets at Marina South Pier, Singapore Island Cruise & Ferry Services Pte Ltd. (65) 6534 9339
Adult: S$15Child: S$12 (Child aged from 1 - 12 years old)
Website: http://www.islandcruise.com.sg/
Or
Private hired boats service from Marina South Pier.
