The majestic Gunung Mulu, rising over a mass of sandstone and shale, 2376 metres above sea level, dominates the Gunung Mulu National Park in the Miri and Limbang Divisions (in
Sarawak). The park covers 52,866 hectares of shale and sandstone, flanked by limestone outcrops with virgin tropical forests at the lower slopes giving way to montane vegetation in the upper regions. It was gazetted as a National Park in 1974. The mix of natural habitats in all its diversity amidst such wild and rugged scenery makes it one of Sarawak's most popular destinations. Foremost among its attractions are the spectacular pinnacle rock formations tucked in the valley of Gunung Api and its cave complex which can only be described in superlatives. Despite its ruggedness, the park is easily accessible and there is a range of activities o keep everyone busy and happy.
This area was miraculously unaffected by the last Ice Age which left it to continue with evolution of its flora and fauna without any interruptions. This accounts for the extraordinary diversity of the plant life and wildlife to be found in its forests today. There are over 1,500 species of flowering plants, 170 species of orchids; and, 10 species of pitcher plants.The lush vegetation of the lower slopes consists of dipterocarp forest. An interesting feature of the peatswamp forest is the massive roots of the Strangling fig tree, a name derived from the fact that it had in fact "strangled" the original host tree to death in its bid to reach the top! In the upper regions, the vegetation is characterised by limestone and moss vegetation and the stunned montane vegetation of the summit.There are 67 types of mammals roaming the forests; 262 species of birds, the latest addition to this group is the newly discovered Borneon frog with the beatiful name - "Rana ingeri"! Also to be seen swinging nonchalantly from the branches are the small tree dwelling Borneon gibbons. All these plus 281 varieties of butterfly and hundreds of insects and fungi make up the inhabitants of the park.Lang's Cave, named after the man who first introduced speleologists to the cave in 1978, features a variety of intricately sculptured stalactites and stalagmites, delicate and transparent helictites and spectacular rock curtains. Footprints embedded in the rocks at the entrance to the caves indicate that it was once inhabited by wild boars.
Deer Cave as its name suggests, this cave was days long gone, a shelter for hordes of deer. It also served as a human burial ground. However, it has now been taken over by millions of bats which can be seen flying out in formation in search of food, as night approaches. You might get to witness this magnificent display of mass exodus on fine evenings. Other inhabitants include swiftlets usually seen circling the entrance; and the earwigs, centipedes and cicadas. Its 160 metre wide mouth resembles a 'colossal stone jaw' earning it the distinction of having the largest cave entrance. Another unique feature is the 'Adam & Eve's shower', a cascade of water falling down 120 metres from the cave roof.
Approached by way of Melinau river, steps lead from the river bank up to the cave entrance of Wind cave. A refreshing breeze greets you as you approach the cave which perhaps explains of its name. Within is the King's Chamber with its magnificent display of stalactites and stalagmites of all shapes and sizes. The chamber is said to be haunted! 
Clearwater caves measuring over 100 km, this is acknowledged to be the longest cave in South-East Asia and the 7th longest in the world.Moss covered stalactites greet you as you approach the entrance. Venture inside into Lady's Cave with the stalactite resembling the virgin Mary.50 steps lead down to underground rivers in a labyrinth of cavern and passages formed million of years ago. The crystal clear water is said to possess mysterious powers to restore youth!
For something more challenging than admiring the evidence of nature's intricate craftsmanship in show caves, don protective helmets and miners' lamps and follow a trail, away from the cements paths and electric lights, down into the depths of Clearwater and Wind caves, under Gunung Api! Crawl with the centipedes and earwigs and be prepared to come face to face with other inhabitants of the cave floor!
Take up the challenge to view the Pinnacles of Gunung Api, located in a shallow valley 1,200 metres above sea level. The adventure begins with an exciting 2 hour boat trip over rapids. On days when the water level gets low, be prepared to help shove the boats over the rock strewn rapids. A 3-4 hour trek through virgin forests brings you to a park hut on the bank of the Melinau river where you stop for the night. The next morning begins with a 4 hour climb, up 1000 metres via a steep path to a vieing point overlooking the pinnacles. The smooth razor edged pinnacles measure 20 metres wide at the base and 45 metres in height. Separated by deep fissures and low bushy mountain forest, they present a spectacular sight when viewed from above. The trail once taken by the legendary warriors on their headhunting spree in days long gone, goes through the lowland forests and down mighty fast flowing rivers. This is recommended for those with unquenchable thirst for adventure and excitement. Follow the headhunters trail and live out your fantasies in the rugged terrain of Sarawak wilderness.
This park encompasses the watershed of the rivers Endau in Johor and Rompin in Pahang and comprises some 488 sq. km of forest. Lush and relatively untouched, it is one of the few remaining lowland forests in the country. It is major conservation significance due to the diversity of the habitats and species found within. A scientific expedition carried out in 1985 and 1986 identified 25 new species of plants within the area and it rocks and hills have been estimated to be 248 million years old. Scientific interest aside, it is also a haven for adventure seekers. Part of its attraction is also intrinsically tied up with the numerous legends and myths handed down through years.
The forest abounds with the famous fan palm of the ' Livistona endauensis' variety whic is indigenous to the region. Other interesting plants include the 'Rhopa Coblaste', more commonly known as the climbing bamboo, and the walking stick palm or 'Phychorapis Singaporensis', identified by its slender stems and feather like leaf fronds, there are also many varieties of toadstools and orchids.
Tigers, elephants and wildboar are some of the animals to be found here. The largest surviving population of Sumatran Rhinoceros in Peninsular Malaysia is also found within the park. Others include the binturong or bear cat (Arctictis binturong) and the white handed gibbon, the only ape species in the region.Endau rompin also home to the Orang Asli of the Jakun Tribe. Drop by at Kampung Peta near the park entry point and gain valuable insights on Orang Asli culture. Find out how they survive in the wilderness and protect themselves from danger with their hunting and tracking skills. See their recreational activities and listen to their mesmerising yarns about the myths of the surrounding jungle.
Given the diverse variety of species and habitats in the area, this can be very absorbing activity indeed. Inhale the heady perfume of the 'Mussaendra mutabilis', a woody climbing plant with fragrant flowers, used in traditional scents for the hair and clothes. Observe how famous pitcher plant traps the unwary insect within its enticing water-filled sacs. See how millions of ants make their homes in tiny chambers within the 'ant plant'.
For truly memorable time you can't beat meeting the 'Orang Asli'
or aborigines who still live out their traditional lifestyle in the jungles of Endau-Rompin. Simple, shy people who are very friendly once they've warmed you. They can also act as useful guides whilst entertain you with interesting stories of the surrounding forest. A local favourite is the mythical creature of 'Hantu Jarang Gigi' a 'bigfoot' type denizen of the forest believed to watch you unnoticed.
Taman Negara, Malaysia's premier park and the largest in the country extends over some 434,300 hectares of primary forests, more than 130 million years old. Even early as 1939, conservation was of primary concern. The park was established for the sole purpose of protecting and preserving the flora and fauna indigenous to the area. Located within the park is Peninsulars Malaysia's highest mountain, Gunung Tahan, 2,187 metres above sea level.
Sungai Keniam is the most popular spot for fishing while the more placid waters of the pools at the lower reaches of Sungai Tahan are also known to be teeming with fish. The best fishing are February, March, July and August. The Kelah, known for its speed and weighing as much as 20lbs offer irresistable challenge to even experienced angler.
Fishing lodges at Lata Berkoh and Kuala Perkai calling all fishing enthusiasts! Fish to your heart's content in the wilds and retreat to this lodges when night descends.
Camp around the park for those who wish to live out their fantasy of sleeping under the stars in the wilds
Two notable caves within the park area are Gua Daun Menari at Kuala Keniam and Gua Telinga, less than an hour's walk from Kuala Tahan. The former attracts visitors with its interesting rock formation and unique wildlife.
Observing wild life as darkness descends is a nocturnal activity well worh the effort. There are 6 hides scattered around the park. Within the relative safety of these hides, overlooking the salt licks and clearings, visitors get a chance to observe the animals as they come to lick up the water and soil for essential salts for their body.
Orang asli settlement at Kampung Yong, home to the Batek tribe. Gain some insights into the life of the orang Asli and see how they hunt and survive in the wilds.
A leisurely 8 km trip up Sungai Tahan to the Lata Berkoh Cascades offers the invigorating experience of swimming in the cool waters of a deep pool below the falls.
The more adventurous would perhaps prefer shooting the seven powerful rapids of the Sungai Tembeling. The 9.1 km ride takes 45 minutes.
Try to travel in Malaysia in different way, visit our rainforest within our National Park for us to appreciate and learn about wonders of nature. Imagine the deep solitude of the primeval forest lulling you into blissful oblivion; where the only music you hear is the song of the birds at dawn and the orchestra at dusk is the crescendo of the chirping cicadas. Revel in the excitement of shooting the rapids or cast your bait in the cool, clear streams. So come spend that much needed break doing something other than the usual leisure pursuits. Do something more than just swimming, sightseeing, shopping or golfing!
Malaysia Nature Exploration
There's a chance to see and do something different-something beyond the normal tourist sight and pursuits. Experience the tranquility of being one with nature in all it's glory. The owesome splendour of virgin rainforest, beneath the cool shady canopy of trees hundred years old, one come realise the "conservation" is not a mere concept but a way of life-that " bio-diversity " is here to stay.
Malaysia's forest are indisputably the oldest in the world and its National Parks are treasure troves of its rich natural heritage. The various species of flora and fauna found within its realms can be describes in superlatives. It is with a view to preserving this invaluable natural heritage for posterity that the National Parks were established, some as early as the first half of this century.
The seas surrounding some of islands abound with a variety of fascinating marine treasure-rare, beautiful and extremely delicate. In order to prevent these extremely fragile marine ecosystems from destruction, areas supporting rich and exotic marine life have been gazetted as Marine Parks. The delicate corals, colorful fishes and turtles in danger of extinction are thus assured of safe haven within these parks.
Sarawak). The park covers 52,866 hectares of shale and sandstone, flanked by limestone outcrops with virgin tropical forests at the lower slopes giving way to montane vegetation in the upper regions. It was gazetted as a National Park in 1974. The mix of natural habitats in all its diversity amidst such wild and rugged scenery makes it one of Sarawak's most popular destinations. Foremost among its attractions are the spectacular pinnacle rock formations tucked in the valley of Gunung Api and its cave complex which can only be described in superlatives. Despite its ruggedness, the park is easily accessible and there is a range of activities o keep everyone busy and happy.
Deer Cave as its name suggests, this cave was days long gone, a shelter for hordes of deer. It also served as a human burial ground. However, it has now been taken over by millions of bats which can be seen flying out in formation in search of food, as night approaches. You might get to witness this magnificent display of mass exodus on fine evenings. Other inhabitants include swiftlets usually seen circling the entrance; and the earwigs, centipedes and cicadas. Its 160 metre wide mouth resembles a 'colossal stone jaw' earning it the distinction of having the largest cave entrance. Another unique feature is the 'Adam & Eve's shower', a cascade of water falling down 120 metres from the cave roof.
