Everyone needs a break from the daily stresses of work or study life from time to time. And what better way to destress than by immersing ourselves in nature by jungle trekking? Sure, trekking may seem daunting for beginners, but it doesn’t have to be!
Whether you are a beginner or are simply looking for a leisurely trail, these 10 jungle treks are sure to be enjoyable and will re-energize you for the upcoming week.
1. Bukit Panorama Trailhead @ Sungai Lembing, Pahang
If you dream of watching the sun rise amidst a sea of clouds, Bukit Panorama is the trail for you. This trail is manageable for anyone who is reasonably fit, so don’t worry about needing any hiking or jungle trekking experience.
It’ll take you anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to reach the top of the hill, so if you don’t want to miss the sunrise, it is recommended to start your journey at 6am latest. This bulk of this trail consists of stairs, so it may not be suitable older individuals or those who have knee problems.
2. Taman Negara @ Kuala Tahan, Pahang
Taman Negara Kuala Tahan provides trekkers the perfect opportunity to get away from city life. This trail is well-known for its canopy walk, which spans over an impressive 530 metres, and is over 40 metres off the ground.
Nature lovers and avid birdwatchers will be delighted to spot many signs of life here, where lucky trekkers have come across elephants, wild boars, white-rumped shamas, straw-headed bulbuls, malkohas, woodpeckers, hornbills, and other wildlife.
3. KL Forest Eco Park @ Bukit Kewangan, Kuala Lumpur
Who says you have to travel to the outskirts to escape the hectic and busy concrete jungle? This beautiful and well-maintained forest reserve is the oldest in Malaysia, and is located in the heart of KL.
KL Forest Eco Park boasts a 200 metre high canopy walk, and at certain points, you can catch a glimpse of the gorgeous city skyline. Besides that, you can find a mini zoo, tower, and cafes scattered around. Entry fees are RM10 for locals and RM40 for foreigners, and RM1 for children under 12 and adults over 65. Trust us when we say a visit here is well worth the money!
4. Bukit Putus (Gunung Angsi Trailhead) @ Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
If you’re on a food trip to Seremban, why not take the time to burn off some extra calories at Bukit Putus, Gunung Ansi? This hill sits at 824 metres above sea level, so you know you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view when you reach the peak!
This trail is extremely clean and well-kept, and comes with clear signage so beginners will have no issues navigating. It may take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach the top, depending on individual pace. Overall, it is suitable for beginners looking for a fun day out in nature.
5. Bukit Batu Putih @ Tanjung Tuan, Negeri Sembilan
Jungle trekking, swimming, picnicking … anything is possible at Bukit Batu Putih, which sits between Negeri Sembilan and Malacca. A 10-15 minute walk in, and you’ll find yourself at the infamous Cape Rachado Lighthouse, and the official entrance to the trail is right beside it.
Make sure to pick the jungle rather than the beach trail for an easier route that can be completed within 40 minutes. When you reach the top, you will be able to enjoy the breath-taking view of the blue waters, which you can take a dip in when you head down. For maximum enjoyment, we suggest planning your trip so that you make it in time to watch the sunset.
6. Danum Valley Conservation Area @ Lahad Datu, Sabah
Danum Valley Conservation Area is a hotspot among locals and nature enthusiasts, and there is no mystery as to why. This one-of-a-kind national forest is primarily known as an education centre for rainforest and wildlife research due to its high biodiversity.
If you’re fortunate enough, you will encounter orangutans, slow lorises, red leaf monkeys, deer, rhinoceros hornbills, elephants, and other wild animals. Keep an ear out for gibbon calls, too!
7. Bako National Park @ Kuching, Sarawak
Established more than 6 decades ago, Bako National Park is Sarawak’s oldest national park. This national park is home to various forms of majestic wildlife and is the ideal place for a nature retreat. Here, you are likely to come across a few proboscis monkeys, snakes, and wild boars. There have even been crocodile sightings reported at the sea, so beware and refrain from swimming!
Bako National Park presents visitors with more than 10 jungle trekking trails, each varying in difficulty and with durations lasting from 1 hour to several days. There are also lodging options for those who wish to spend the night there.
8. Bukit Keluang @ Kampung Raja, Terengganu
Bukit Keluang gives beginner trekkers the best of both worlds – a short trek that can be completed under 30 minutes, and a glorious view at the top. Given its short duration, it is child-friendly and perfect for those who want to spend some quality time with their family.
Since it is located along the shore, you will be surrounded by tranquil, crystal clear waters. Additionally, you will have the chance to participate in water sports such as banana boat rides. What else could you ask for?
9. Gunung Arong @ Mersing, Johor
Gunung Arong is another trail that is suitable for newbies and children. Reaching the peak is a breeze, as it takes less than an hour. Besides that, your effort will be rewarded tenfold with the picturesque panoramic view at the top!
The easiest trail here begins up Kampung Tanjung Resang, and down Teluk Gorek beach. Don’t miss out on Lover’s Bridge during your journey, and remember to snap some pictures while you’re taking in the stunning view of the South China Sea and the surrounding islands!
10. Gunung Baling @ Baling, Kedah
Gunung Baling hits the spot for those looking for challenge and adventure, but consider themselves relatively inexperienced. However difficult you may find the journey up, the tension is guaranteed to melt away when you step onto the peak and are greeted with a view that will leave you speechless.
The hike up to the top takes anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on how fast you go. Some parts of the trek can be rather steep, so remember to wear proper hiking footwear and avoid visiting on rainy days.
That’s the end of our list! If your goal is to try something new this year, we definitely recommend jungle trekking, and starting with these trails! For more travel articles, visit LokaTaste.
