Kedah State
Lata Mengkuang and Sik Recreational Forest
Surrounded by the hills and mountains of Sik, 72 km southeast of Alor Setar offer the adventurous spirit a blissful retreat from the everyday world. This area is ideal for hiking and camping amidst surroundings.
Johor State
Gunung Pulai Recreational forest
This 8 hectares forest reserve is a catchment area, unique flora and fauna sanctuary and a fascinating recreational haven. There are several waterfalls with pools at its bottom. Apart from being an ideal picnic spot, the forest is a venue for seminars, workcamp and jungle trekking to the summit of Gunung Pulai.
Ledang Mountain Recreational Forest
It is a recreational forest, the site of Johor’s highest mountain, Gunung Ledang (Ledang Mountain). Trekkers can climb to the summit of the mountain and camp at the Sagil Waterfall. According to legend, Gunung Ledang was the homes of a Johor princess who was wooed by the Sultan of Melaka in 15th century.
Gunung Arong Recreational Forest
This forest of towering and shady trees and natural setting offer a refreshing retreat for visitors. There are popular picnic spots by the riverside, a garden and a well-equipped playground. Other facilities include rest shades, dressing room, and toilet and treetop huts. Jungle trails are also provided for the more adventurous visitors.
Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest
Located at the foothill of Gunung Lambak, this recreational forest is a favourite retreat for picnics, bathing and mountain climbing. The 510 m high Gunung Lambak is accessible by footpaths provided. Facilities including car park, benches, rest shade, dressing room, toilets and bridge leading to campsites are provided.
Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest
Lush greenery and ravishing wilderness await visitors. It is a haven for camping, picnics and mountain climbing. Gunung Belumut promises exotic vegetation and breathtaking waterfalls.
Gunung Panti Recreational Forest
This recreational forest is a haven for those who like to camp. Facilities including campsites and temporary accommodation are provided for visitors. Rare species of flora and fauna can be found here.
Perak State
Banding Resort
The Banding Resort, 35 km from Grik, is the ideal place for fishing enthusiast and those who really want to get away from it all. This remote resort covers 103.6 hectares next to the Temenggor lake at the mid-point of the East-West highway. The lake delivers fish of generous proportions and there is ample opportunity for trekking, camping and picnicking. At present, there is a modern restaurant and rest house, which provides comfortable accommodation. Plans are underway for expansion and improvement of the existing facilities. More information: 011-329027
For reservations: 03-2423697 (Kuala Lumpur), 05-6835495 (Lumut), 05-6991100 (Pulau Pangkor).
Pahang State
Taman Negara (National Park)
At Kuala Tahan. Taman Negara, or the National Park, boasts of jungles that date back millions of year, making them older than those of the Congo or Amazon. With 4,343 sq km of luxuriant tropical rain forest, the park is a heaven for adventurers. Picturesque trails, giant trees, limestone caves, excellent fishing spots, exciting river trips and ample jungle trekking trails offer a multitude of such adventure opportunities. The park’s canopy walk, which is 25 metres high and over 400 metres long, is the world’s longest. As it lies on the top layer of vegetation in a forest, you will have an extraordinary view of the plant and animal species found there. Wildlife observation can be done from observation hides built around the many salt licks. Mountain climbing buffs would enjoy scaling Gunung Tahan, which at 2,187 metres is the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia. River trips are an enjoyable activity within the park, especially those involving shooting the rapids. For the less stalwart, there are meandering cruises that let you enjoy the surrounding scenery at a leisurely pace. Fishing is best done in February, march, July and August, and it takes two days to reach the best fishing areas located along Sungai Tahan near Lata Berkoh and Sungai Kenyam. Camping grounds in verdant surroundings are to be found in the park. Accommodation at the park is available in the Rest House, chalets and a hostel, all fitted with basic utilities. Hotels here are:
Taman Negara Resort (Tel: 609-2663500/ Fax: 609-2661500)
Nusa Camp Holiday Village Sdn. Bhd. (Tel: 609-2662369/ Fax: 609-2664369)
Teresek View Village (Tel: 609-2663065)
Ekoton Chalet (Tel: 609-2669897)
Kenong Rimba Park
At Lipis. Kenong Rimba Park is situated in natural surroundings with cascading waterfalls, clear mountain stream and a variety of flora and fauna. The merry chirping of birds will create an atnosphere, which is really difficult to express in words. It offers great adventure, such as exploring limestone caves, swimming in the river and camping. Challenging hiking trails interspersed with protruding rocks and untouched natural surroundings is a haven for adventure lovers. Within the Kenong Rimba Park, these are several caves (gua) to explore. These are Gua Batu Telungkup, Gua Hijau and Gua Harimau. The caves, situated approximately 122-152 metres above sea level, are a natural habitat for a range of flora and nature’s other marvels. For nature lovers, a stop at Kenong Rimba Park is a must. It is a perfect hideout for bird watchers, campers, anglers, trekkers and swimmers. Hotels here are:
Persona Rimba Resort (Tel: 609-3125032/ Fax: 609-3121421)
Lipis Centre Point Hotel (Tel: 609-3122688/ Fax: 609-3122689)
Lipis Inn Hotel (Tel: 609-3125588/ Fax: 609-3125588)
Gunung Tapis Park
At Kuantan. About 16 km away from Sungai Lembing is Gunung Tapis (Tapis Mountain), a beautiful nature park. Excellent camping spots can be found in a number of areas. Although still in the early stages of development, Gunung Tapis offers a number of activities. You can shoot rapids on one of the several rivers, or fish for the delectable ‘Ikan Kelah’ (tortambroides duronesis). The park also abounds with hot springs and wildlife. If you plan to stay overnight, camping and survival equipment are recommended. Prior arrangements for a visit to the park can be made with the Persona Adventure Camp. Hotels here are:
Persona Adventure Camp (Tel: 609-5135566/ Fax: 609-5130510)
Sabah State
Tawau Hills Park
The lush forests of the Tawau Hills in the east coast of Sabah serves as an important water catchment area for Tawau and Semporna. The area was gazetted as a National Park to protect the natural environment with its unique flora and fauna and to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for the region. Rugged volcanic terrain covers the natural landscape, in sharp contrast to the neatly cultivated plantations of oil palm, cocoa and rubber on the flat coastal plains. It covers an area of 27,972 hectares.
Flora and fauna
Lush dipterocarp forest vegetation and lianas cover the lower regions giving way to thick damp mossy forests as the altitude gets higher and temperature get cooler. The variety of plant life found within the park include Agathis, Mountain ru, Tree ferns, different species of orchids and begonia. A particularly interesting species is the Mengaris tree whose smooth grey trunk makes it particularly difficult to climb. Wild bees protect their precious store of honey from the voracious honey bears, by making their honeycombs high up these trees. Macaques, creamy white leaf monkeys, giant tree squirrels, civet cats and leopard cats inhabit the park’s dense primary forests. Borneo’s largest wild cat-the clouded leopard, through rarely seen is not uncommon. It preys on smaller mammals such as rats and even bigger wild pigs. Other inhabitants of the harmless kind include hornbills and pheasants and the slow-moving forest tortoise.
Planning an itinerary
Cool strams meandering through a lush tropical forest setting and waterfalls cascading excitingly into frothing rocky pools down below, make it an ideal location for picnics and refreshing dips-away from the stress and strains of everyday life. There are also hotsprings-Mother Nature’s very own spa, where you can ease your tired muscles and weary bones while luxuriant in the the therapeutic warmth of the ‘geotermal’ pool.
Lata Mengkuang and Sik Recreational Forest
Surrounded by the hills and mountains of Sik, 72 km southeast of Alor Setar offer the adventurous spirit a blissful retreat from the everyday world. This area is ideal for hiking and camping amidst surroundings.
Johor State
Gunung Pulai Recreational forest
This 8 hectares forest reserve is a catchment area, unique flora and fauna sanctuary and a fascinating recreational haven. There are several waterfalls with pools at its bottom. Apart from being an ideal picnic spot, the forest is a venue for seminars, workcamp and jungle trekking to the summit of Gunung Pulai.
Ledang Mountain Recreational Forest
It is a recreational forest, the site of Johor’s highest mountain, Gunung Ledang (Ledang Mountain). Trekkers can climb to the summit of the mountain and camp at the Sagil Waterfall. According to legend, Gunung Ledang was the homes of a Johor princess who was wooed by the Sultan of Melaka in 15th century.
Gunung Arong Recreational Forest
This forest of towering and shady trees and natural setting offer a refreshing retreat for visitors. There are popular picnic spots by the riverside, a garden and a well-equipped playground. Other facilities include rest shades, dressing room, and toilet and treetop huts. Jungle trails are also provided for the more adventurous visitors.
Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest
Located at the foothill of Gunung Lambak, this recreational forest is a favourite retreat for picnics, bathing and mountain climbing. The 510 m high Gunung Lambak is accessible by footpaths provided. Facilities including car park, benches, rest shade, dressing room, toilets and bridge leading to campsites are provided.
Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest
Lush greenery and ravishing wilderness await visitors. It is a haven for camping, picnics and mountain climbing. Gunung Belumut promises exotic vegetation and breathtaking waterfalls.
Gunung Panti Recreational Forest
This recreational forest is a haven for those who like to camp. Facilities including campsites and temporary accommodation are provided for visitors. Rare species of flora and fauna can be found here.
Perak State
Banding Resort
The Banding Resort, 35 km from Grik, is the ideal place for fishing enthusiast and those who really want to get away from it all. This remote resort covers 103.6 hectares next to the Temenggor lake at the mid-point of the East-West highway. The lake delivers fish of generous proportions and there is ample opportunity for trekking, camping and picnicking. At present, there is a modern restaurant and rest house, which provides comfortable accommodation. Plans are underway for expansion and improvement of the existing facilities. More information: 011-329027
For reservations: 03-2423697 (Kuala Lumpur), 05-6835495 (Lumut), 05-6991100 (Pulau Pangkor).
Pahang State
Taman Negara (National Park)
At Kuala Tahan. Taman Negara, or the National Park, boasts of jungles that date back millions of year, making them older than those of the Congo or Amazon. With 4,343 sq km of luxuriant tropical rain forest, the park is a heaven for adventurers. Picturesque trails, giant trees, limestone caves, excellent fishing spots, exciting river trips and ample jungle trekking trails offer a multitude of such adventure opportunities. The park’s canopy walk, which is 25 metres high and over 400 metres long, is the world’s longest. As it lies on the top layer of vegetation in a forest, you will have an extraordinary view of the plant and animal species found there. Wildlife observation can be done from observation hides built around the many salt licks. Mountain climbing buffs would enjoy scaling Gunung Tahan, which at 2,187 metres is the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia. River trips are an enjoyable activity within the park, especially those involving shooting the rapids. For the less stalwart, there are meandering cruises that let you enjoy the surrounding scenery at a leisurely pace. Fishing is best done in February, march, July and August, and it takes two days to reach the best fishing areas located along Sungai Tahan near Lata Berkoh and Sungai Kenyam. Camping grounds in verdant surroundings are to be found in the park. Accommodation at the park is available in the Rest House, chalets and a hostel, all fitted with basic utilities. Hotels here are:
Taman Negara Resort (Tel: 609-2663500/ Fax: 609-2661500)
Nusa Camp Holiday Village Sdn. Bhd. (Tel: 609-2662369/ Fax: 609-2664369)
Teresek View Village (Tel: 609-2663065)
Ekoton Chalet (Tel: 609-2669897)
Kenong Rimba Park
At Lipis. Kenong Rimba Park is situated in natural surroundings with cascading waterfalls, clear mountain stream and a variety of flora and fauna. The merry chirping of birds will create an atnosphere, which is really difficult to express in words. It offers great adventure, such as exploring limestone caves, swimming in the river and camping. Challenging hiking trails interspersed with protruding rocks and untouched natural surroundings is a haven for adventure lovers. Within the Kenong Rimba Park, these are several caves (gua) to explore. These are Gua Batu Telungkup, Gua Hijau and Gua Harimau. The caves, situated approximately 122-152 metres above sea level, are a natural habitat for a range of flora and nature’s other marvels. For nature lovers, a stop at Kenong Rimba Park is a must. It is a perfect hideout for bird watchers, campers, anglers, trekkers and swimmers. Hotels here are:
Persona Rimba Resort (Tel: 609-3125032/ Fax: 609-3121421)
Lipis Centre Point Hotel (Tel: 609-3122688/ Fax: 609-3122689)
Lipis Inn Hotel (Tel: 609-3125588/ Fax: 609-3125588)
Gunung Tapis Park
At Kuantan. About 16 km away from Sungai Lembing is Gunung Tapis (Tapis Mountain), a beautiful nature park. Excellent camping spots can be found in a number of areas. Although still in the early stages of development, Gunung Tapis offers a number of activities. You can shoot rapids on one of the several rivers, or fish for the delectable ‘Ikan Kelah’ (tortambroides duronesis). The park also abounds with hot springs and wildlife. If you plan to stay overnight, camping and survival equipment are recommended. Prior arrangements for a visit to the park can be made with the Persona Adventure Camp. Hotels here are:
Persona Adventure Camp (Tel: 609-5135566/ Fax: 609-5130510)
Sabah State
Tawau Hills Park
The lush forests of the Tawau Hills in the east coast of Sabah serves as an important water catchment area for Tawau and Semporna. The area was gazetted as a National Park to protect the natural environment with its unique flora and fauna and to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for the region. Rugged volcanic terrain covers the natural landscape, in sharp contrast to the neatly cultivated plantations of oil palm, cocoa and rubber on the flat coastal plains. It covers an area of 27,972 hectares.
Flora and fauna
Lush dipterocarp forest vegetation and lianas cover the lower regions giving way to thick damp mossy forests as the altitude gets higher and temperature get cooler. The variety of plant life found within the park include Agathis, Mountain ru, Tree ferns, different species of orchids and begonia. A particularly interesting species is the Mengaris tree whose smooth grey trunk makes it particularly difficult to climb. Wild bees protect their precious store of honey from the voracious honey bears, by making their honeycombs high up these trees. Macaques, creamy white leaf monkeys, giant tree squirrels, civet cats and leopard cats inhabit the park’s dense primary forests. Borneo’s largest wild cat-the clouded leopard, through rarely seen is not uncommon. It preys on smaller mammals such as rats and even bigger wild pigs. Other inhabitants of the harmless kind include hornbills and pheasants and the slow-moving forest tortoise.
Planning an itinerary
Cool strams meandering through a lush tropical forest setting and waterfalls cascading excitingly into frothing rocky pools down below, make it an ideal location for picnics and refreshing dips-away from the stress and strains of everyday life. There are also hotsprings-Mother Nature’s very own spa, where you can ease your tired muscles and weary bones while luxuriant in the the therapeutic warmth of the ‘geotermal’ pool.
