Malaysia, with its breathtaking beaches, diverse cultures, delicious food and vibrant cities, is one of the most visited holiday destination in Southeast Asia. Apart from all these factors, what bring several people from around the world to Malaysia are its gorgeous national parks. The country has more than 30 national parks, each protecting the abundant of flora and fauna residing in its rainforests. If you want to spend your holiday in the lap of nature, with beauty all around you, here are some of the most stunning Malaysia national parks that you should visit during your holiday in the country.
1.Taman Negara National Park
Almost 130 million years old, the Taman Negara is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. The national park was opened in 1938 and has seen several visitors since then. One of the best things to do here is to walk on the narrow canopy that hangs above the park. If you are lucky, you would get to see tigers, elephants and even the Malayan gaur here. For the more adventurous, the park is open to jungle trekking (even night jungle trekking), fishing, boating and bird watching. The place also has four waterfalls that are worth hiking on the trails. Interested people can visit the village where you can learn about the culture of the local aboriginal tribe.
2.Bako National Park
Located in Kuching, the Bako National Park is both the oldest and the smallest national park in Sarawak. Although small, the national park has abundance of flora, which includes each and every tree and plant that you would find in Malaysian Borneo. The best part about visiting Bako National Park is that you have to take a boat, as there is no other way of reaching the place. As you arrive at the national park, you would be welcomed with the sights of pristine beaches, dense rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls. Hike along the various hiking or trekking trails to check out the beautiful landscapes and the unique bird and animal life.
3.Penang National Park
Considered as one of the best national parks in Malaysia, Penang National Park has something for everyone. Home to more than 9 beaches and a variety of flora and fauna that covers every inch of the rainforest, this national park has captured the love and admiration of all visitors. The trekking trails would take you right inside the forest, where you can admire the plants, tree and animal life. A great way of getting an aerial view of the forest is walking on the 250-meter canopy that hangs 15 meter above the ground. After a tiring hike, relax at one of the beaches; you can even camp overnight at the beaches, if you want. Boating is another activity you can enjoy here.
4.Kinabalu National Park
Named after the mountain that resides here (Mount Kinabalu), the Kinabalu National Park is Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even if climbing the 4000-meters tall mountain is not on your agenda, there are several other interesting things you can see and do at this national park. One of the highlights of the park is that it houses more than 5000 species of flora and fauna. Also, get ready to see more than 400 bird species and over 100 animal species at this park. The Kinabalu National Park is an epitome of beauty, and would definitely make for a memorable trip. Interested people can also visit the villages where they can get to know more about the history and culture of the Dusun people.
5.Lambir Hills National Park
Home to scenic trails that lead you to gorgeous waterfalls, the Lambir Hills National Park is a delight to visit. While not watching the beautiful waterfalls or swimming in the bathing pools, you would have a great time walking around the park and watching the array of big and small animals like deer, gibbons, flying squirrels, wild pigs, insects and different species of birds. The Lambir Hills National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and an amazing place to spend a quiet and peaceful time.
6.Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Not far from Kinabalu National Park, the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is one of the best and the most gorgeous national parks of Malaysia. The most unique thing about this place is that it is spread 5 islands that include Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sulug, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Manukan. While the lush green forests of the national park are beautiful, nothing would prepare you for the beauty of the white sand beaches and clear blue waters. Apart from trekking in the forest and lounging on the beaches, take the opportunity to go snorkelling or scuba diving to get a glimpse of the coral reef and the marine life.
7.Gunung Mulu National Park
The first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Gunung Mulu National Park is the incredible rock formations that can be seen everywhere. The presence of the rocky cliffs, canyons and caverns amidst all the greenery gives the whole a mystic look, which can be enjoyed if you visit the place by air (the only other way is a boat). Other than these, there are the numerous caves that dot the entire park. Declared as World Heritage Sites, the caves of Mulu National Park are huge and spectacular. Sarawak Chamber, with an area of 528.64 square km, is the largest in the world. Some other inspiring caves in the area include the Clearwater Cave, Deer Cave, etc. Hiking and visiting the caves at the national park is physically exhausting but well worth the effort. Also, you must take a dip at the Paku Waterfall before calling it a day.
8.KL Forest Eco Park
It is hard to imagine a forest nearby when you are staring at the huge skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur. However, it is true. Right in the heart of the city is KL Forest Eco Park, which houses the oldest protected jungle. While the park gives you the chance to enjoy the greenery, you would get to hear a cacophony of birds while hiking along its various trails. You must also walk on the canopy from where you can get a peek of the KL Tower. This is the perfect place for those who want to spend time amidst nature but do not want to travel far from the city.
The national parks in Malaysia are essential for the ecosystem and have been preserved beautifully. Hence, a trip to the country would not be complete without a visit to at least one of these amazing national parks.
