Lata Payung's Emerald Pools (Terengganu)

 By Batrisyia 

Discovering Paradise

A Natural Masterpiece

Lata Payung translates to "Umbrella Falls," though locals often call it simply "the green pool" for obvious reasons. The waterfall's main attraction is its series of natural granite pools filled with the most incredible turquoise and emerald waters you'll ever see. The unique coloration comes from the mineral content in the water and the way sunlight filters through the forest canopy, creating an almost ethereal glow that photographs can barely capture.

The granite bedrock has been sculpted by centuries of flowing water, creating smooth, natural slides and perfectly carved swimming holes of varying depths. Some pools are shallow enough for children to splash around safely, while others plunge deep enough for proper swimming and diving.

The Journey to Paradise

Getting to Lata Payung is half the adventure. Located in the Setiu district of Terengganu, the waterfall requires a moderately challenging trek through primary rainforest. The journey begins from the small village of Kampung Jerteh, where you'll need to arrange for a local guide—both for navigation and to respect the traditional knowledge of the area.

The trek takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the incredible biodiversity along the way. The path winds through dense jungle, crosses small streams, and occasionally requires scrambling over rocks and fallen logs. It's an adventure that makes reaching the falls feel like discovering a secret that few outsiders know.

Swimming in Liquid Emerald

The first glimpse of Lata Payung's main pool is absolutely breathtaking. The water is so clear you can see every detail of the granite bottom, and the emerald color is so vivid it seems almost artificial. The temperature is perfectly refreshing—cool enough to provide relief from the tropical heat but not so cold as to be shocking.

The natural granite formations create perfect spots for sitting and soaking, while the deeper sections invite you to dive in and explore. The current is generally gentle, making it safe for swimming, though visitors should always exercise caution around any natural water body.

Leave No Trace Guidelines:

• Pack out everything you bring in
• Use biodegradable soap if you must wash
• Don't disturb rocks or natural formations
• Respect the local wildlife and plant life
• Keep noise levels down to preserve the tranquil atmosphere