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A Guide to ‘The Natural Jewels of Peninsula Malaysia’

Document Code: NP/AG/1415

* Taman Negara * Lake Chini * Royal Belum State Park * Endau Rompin National Park * Kenyir Lake *

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Endau Rompin National Park

Table of Contents

A Guide to ‘The Natural Jewels of Peninsula Malaysia’ – NP/AG/1415

Contents Page Front Cover 1 Table of Contents 2

1. Taman Negara 3 – 5

2. Endau Rompin National Park 6 – 7

3. Royal Belum State Park 8 – 9

4. Lake Chini 10 – 11

5. Kenyir Lake 12 – 13

Back Cover – About MegaBorneo & Contact Details 14

Map of Peninsula Malaysia

Taman Negara


National Park is Malaysia’s premier national park and is the oldest rainforest in the world. Previously known as King George V National Park, it was renamed to Taman Negara after Malaysia gained its independence in 1957. Sprawling across 4343 square kilometres and spanning into three states (Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang), this wild and virgin National Park is meticulously conserved and closely guarded as it is among the last remaining frontiers of an ancient and pristine rainforest.

Taman Negara is a sanctuary to hundreds of exotic wildlife and home to ancient trees with giant roots, limestone caves, stunning waterfalls and jungle-clad mountains. The diversity of its flora and fauna is the result of undisturbed evolution over 130 million years. Over the years, Taman Negara has been developed as a famous eco-tourism destination in Malaysia. There are abundant of geological and biological attractions in the national park with more than 30 spectacular sites to explore.

Whether scaling the highest mountain (Gunung Tahan), exploring spectacular caves (Gua Telinga), trekking through ancient rainforest (Bukit Teresek Trail), visiting an aborigines village (Kampung Yong), swimming in the deep pool below the waterfall (Lata Berkoh Waterfall) or shooting rapids (Kuala Trenggan), Taman Negara offers endless exhilarating sights and exciting adventures.

Entry permits and licenses for fishing and camera are mandatory requirements before going into Taman Negara. You need to apply for one at any of the Department of Wildlife’s counter located at the Kuala Tembeling jetty or at Kuala Tahan.

National Park Attractions


Canopy Walkway – stretching 530 metres with a suspension bridge hanging 40 metres above the ground, this is the world’s longest canopy walkway. Equipped with nine stop-over platforms constructed on tree top, this is the best way to view the flora and fauna of the dipterocarp lowland rainforest.

Observation Hide - the myriad variety of wildlife at the national park can be seen and photographed from the specially constructed observation “hides”. Tahan Hide, a 20-minute walk from the park headquarters is the most popular.

Cave Exploration - explore the undisturbed hundred million years old limestone and caves. Be amazed with the rock formation at Gua Telinga, Gua Kepayang, Gua Daun Menari and Gua Luas. Look out for thousands of bat, cave snake, millipede, centipede and giant toad.

Rapids Shooting – be prepared to get wet with loads of adrenaline-pumping fun as you shoot against seven sets of rapids at Kuala Trenggan.

Jungle Trekking - explore the national park on foot via well-marked jungle trails such as Tahan Trail, Teranggan Trail, Neram Trail and Bukit Teresek. Each trail promises different adventure yet equally fascinating.

Lata Berkoh Waterfall – the rock formation of the cascade at Lata Berkoh creates a natural jacuzzi and offers an invigorating experience of swimming in the cool waters of deep pool below the fall. A rocky area overlooking the rapids is an ideal site for a picnic lunch.

Lubuk Tenor Fish Sanctuary – be part of Taman Negara’s eco conservation project by adopting a fresh water fish. You can also participate in fish feeding or snorkel with the fishes.

Orang Asli Settlement – visit the aborigines known as the Batek tribe at Kampung Yong. The Batek tribe have been living in Taman Negara for centuries and still practises the nomadic way of life. Known as great hunters, the Batek tribal youth will demonstrate their fire-making technique, blowpipe skills and the art of survival in the jungle.

Gunung Tahan – climb Peninsula Malaysia highest peak. Located 55 kilometres from the park headquarters, the summit is 2816 metres above sea level and requires seven days return journey. Recommended only for those with a high level of physical fitness and mental endurance.

Bukit Teresek – situated at 334 metres above sea level, the hill is 2 kilometre from the park headquarters. The trail is one of the best introductions to the tropical rainforest eco-system. The first 500 metres is an easy walk whilst the rest is a steep climb with two look-out points. One overlooking Tembeling River and the other overlooking Tahan River.

National Park Map


Taman Negara is located in the Pahang state of Malaysia. The most accessible gateway to the National Park is through Jerantut town in Pahang. The journey from Kuala Lumpur City to Pahang is approximately 3-hours via the Karak Highway. There are many Jerantut bound buses and taxis available at the Pudu Raya Bus Terminal in Kuala Lumpur. Upon reaching Jerantut town, take the local bus or taxi to the Kuala Tembeling jetty which is about 16 kilometres north of Jerantut. Another 3-hours boat ride upriver takes you to Kuala Tahan where the National Park is located. The boat departure time is fixed at 9.00am and 2.00pm daily.

Kuala Tembeling is also accessible from Kuala Lumpur City via the rail. Trains from Kuala Lumpur station stop at Tembeling Halt, about 30 minutes’ drive to the Kuala Tembeling jetty. From there, a longboat will take you to Kuala Tahan in about 3-hours (depending on the water level of the river).

Endau Rompin National Park


Endau Rompin National Park is located at the north of Johor state and south of Pahang state in Malaysia. Covering an area of 50,000 hectares, Endau Rompin’s lush and virtually untouched tropical rainforest has been in existence for more than one million years and is one of the few remaining lowland forests in Malaysia. There are 14,500 flowering plants and 600 species of flowers found in the park and one spectacular discovery is the fan palm, endemic to the Ulu Endau area. Endau Rompin centuries-old rainforest also provides sanctuary to the largest surviving population of the endangered Sumatran Rhino and primates such as leaf monkey, long-tail macaque and the white-handed gibbon.

Endau Rompin National Park is truly a nature paradise with stunning waterfalls, beautiful rivers and virgin forest filled with flora and fauna that have evolved into a unique eco-system of exotic species. As you trek along the 26 kilometres jungle trails in the park, you will be mesmerised with the 50-metres high Mahkota Waterfalls with a unique cave in the middle called Kelapa Gading Cave. Endau Rompin National Park is reputed to house some of the best waterfalls in the Malaysia such as Buaya Sangkut Waterfall, Upeh Guling Waterfall and Takah Tinggi Waterfall which have remained pristine and untouched.

To protect the pristine environment, only limited areas of the park are open for eco-tourism purposes. Entry to the park requires special permit to be obtained from the Johor National Park Corporation or District Office in Kuala Rompin. Upon entry to the park, trekkers will be guided by forest rangers to ensure safety at all. Endau Rompin National Park is closed from the month of November to March due to monsoon season.

Endau Rompin National Park Attractions


Mahkota Waterfall – a jewel in Endau Rompin National Park. This 50-metres high waterfall has a unique cave in the middle known as Kelapa Gading Cave. This waterfall is best for swimming and popular as a picnic spot.

Buaya Sangkut Waterfall – a 40-metres high waterfall with a fascinating rock formations.

Upeh Guling Waterfall – known for its series of whirlpools formed by ancient volcanic rocks. The landscape is littered with deep crevices and concaves resulting from years of erosion.

Takah Pandan Waterfall – has more than 50-metres straight fall and well-known for water abseiling activity.

Kuala Jasin River – a beautiful and picturesque river known for white water rafting activity. Be prepared to get wet with loads of adrenaline-pumping fun. Alternatively you can opt for a boat cruise.

Kinchin River – a popular spot among avid anglers. The best time for fishing is from Feb-Apr and June-Aug.

Tasik Air Biru – a freshwater lake with blue waters due to the sunlight reflection on the rounded rocks at the bed of the lake.

Kampong Peta – home of the indigenous people of Peninsula Malaysia known as Orang Asli. The tribe is called Jakun and they lead a simple life and pretty much self-sustained through farming and hunting.

Endau Rompin National Park has three main entry points, two located within the state of Johor (in the east and west) and one within the state of Pahang.

If you are heading towards Johor from Kuala Lumpur City, use the North-South Highway and exit at Air Hitam. Last minute supplies can be purchase from Kluang town, about an hour drive from the exit point. Continue driving for 40 kilometres towards Mersing until you reach Kahang. The national park is 3 kilometres from Kahang.

If you are heading towards Pahang from Kuala Lumpur City, use the Karak Highway. Go towards Kuala Rompin town and drive along a paved road to Seladang. Follow a 26 kilometres dirt track to the national park boundary at Kuala Kinchin.

Royal Belum State Park


Royal Belum State Park is part of the Belum-Temenggor Forest Reserve, the largest forest complex in Peninsula Malaysia. The Belum Rainforest is divided into upper Belum which stretches into Thailand-Malaysian border and the lower Belum covered by the Temenggor Lake. Belum-Temenggor Forest is believed to be in existence for over 130 million years and one of the oldest rainforest in the world. This primitive rainforest is abundant with extraordinary flora and fauna including some of world’s most endangered mammals such as the Malaysian Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Malaysian Sunbear and Malayan Tapir. Royal Belum State Park is reputed to be the only existing rainforest with ten different species of hornbill.

Royal Belum stands on the threshold of discovery to some of the world most important, unique and beautiful natural treasures such as the largest flower in the world known as Rafflesia. Royal Belum is a unique haven rich with waterfalls, streams, lagoons, limestone and island dotting the waterways that make up the Temenggor Lake located in the heart of lower Belum.

Royal Belum is under the Perak State Park Authority jurisdiction, responsible in regulating and monitoring all activities. Therefore an entry permit is mandatory for every visitor into the park. The Perak State Park Authority office is located in Gerik and permit is only issued within advanced time limit. Permit application for foreigners require 2-3 weeks in advance (with photocopy of passport).

Royal Belum State Park Attractions


Temenggor Lake – enjoys spectacular scenery and watch the stunning sunset at the second largest man-made lake in Peninsular Malaysia. The lake has variety of freshwater fish species which makes it the favourite destination for avid anglers. The lake is full with small islands open for visiting and most of the main resorts are located on these islands.

Banding Island – the main entry point to the natural heritage Belum-Temenggor Rainforest Complex. The island is linked to the mainland by the bridge over Temenggor Lake.

Salt Licks Area – an important source of waterholes for the park’s wildlife. There are 60 salt licks scattered in the Royal Belum Park and the best place to catch a glimpse of these fascinating and precious wildlife.

Jungle Trekking – discover three different species of Rafflesia, a unique parasitic-corpse smelling flowers reputed to be the largest in the world. Another interesting discovery is the Areca Tunku palm which has banana-like fruits.

Bird Watching – the only existing rainforest with ten different species of hornbill. Another unique wildlife is the Dayak Fruit Bat, the only male mammal producing milk.

Orang Asli Village – the aborigines of Peninsular Malaysia known as Jahai and Temiar tribe lived by river and some remote part inside the rainforest. Their main activities are fishing, hunting and agriculture. The Royal Belum Park has helped the Orang Asli community by creating jobs such as jungle guides, boat operator, kitchen helper, hotel staff and manning the retail shops at the jetty.

Royal Belum State Park is located in the state of Perak. If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur City, take the North-South Expressway towards Ipoh City. Once you have passed Ipoh, follow the highway sign towards Kuala Kangsar, Sauk, Lenggong and Gerik. After passing Gerik town, you are now on the East-West Highway that goes all the way to the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Gerik is also the last place to fill up your fuel tank as there are no petrol stations along the East-West Highway. Soon you will see the signs leading to Royal Belum State Park. The boats to the many resort on Royal Belum Park departs from Pulau Banding Jetty.

Lake Chini

‘A Guide to National Park in Peninsula Malaysia’ – NP/AG/1415

Lake Chini is the second largest natural freshwater lake in Malaysia. Covering an area of 12,565 acres, Lake Chini consisted of 13 interconnecting water bodies, each with its own unique characteristics. The locals believed Lake Chini is guarded by the mysterious Loch Ness type monster known as Naga Sri Gumum but historians believed the lake is the site of an ancient Khmer city.

Lake Chini is blessed with pristine tranquillity and diversity of aquatic plants rich in biological resources. Lake Chini provides a sanctuary for 130 species of territorial flora, 300 species of non-aquatic vertebrates and 144 species of freshwater fish. In the month of August through September, thousands of white and pink water lilies will emerge transforming Lake Chini into a beautiful floating flower garden mesmerising every visitors.

The aborigines of the Jakun tribe living on the fringe of the lake at Kampung Gumum are one of the Lake Chini main attractions. This tribe still preserved their traditional lifestyle and visitors will get to witness their fine art of wood craving and amazing blowpipe skills used for hunting.

Chini Lake Attractions

‘A Guide to National Park in Peninsula Malaysia’ – NP/AG/1415

Chini Mountain – enjoy panoramic view from the top of the mountain and stay a night to appreciate the wonders of nature. Be sure to pack some warm clothing.

Bebar Peat Swamp Forest – known as the Black Water Jewel, the swamp forest is home to 221 species of flora, 62 species of fauna, 233 species of birds, 8 species of reptiles and 56 species of fishes.

Kampung Salong Homestay – situated in the southern bank of Pahang River, you will get to experience living by the river like the Orang Asli (aborigines) of Lake Chini.

Lake Chini Research Centre – a one-stop centre dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the ecological site of the lake.

Jungle Trekking – explore the 12 lakes surrounding Lake Chini and discover Terapai Waterfall and Mentagan Waterfall or hike up to Chini Mountain. Experienced guides will show you the few exciting trekking routes

Fishing – the favourite and most popular sport in Lake Chini. The best time for fishing is during the monsoon season (November to January) because the rain will increase the volume of the lake.

Lake Chini is located in the state of Pahang. If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur City, use the Karak Highway and head towards Kuantan (capital of Pahang). Lake Chini is accessible by road from Kampung Belimbing, about 100 kilometres south west of Kuantan. The journey continues with a boat ride through the winding Chini River.

If travelling by bus from Kuala Lumpur, you will be passing through some small towns such as Felda Chini, Salong and Pekan. This is the best opportunity to view the village life of the Malays in Pahang state.

Kenyir Lake


Kenyir Lake is one of the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia with a wonderful assortment of 340 islands with stunning waterfalls, fascinating limestone hills, mysterious caves, rivers and rapids. The magnificent lake is surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest with extraordinary species of flora and fauna. Kenyir Lake is a nature haven to more than 8000 species of flowers, 2500 species of plants and trees, 370 species of birds and 300 species of fresh water fish living in harmony in their natural habitat.

Kenyir Lake provides an oasis of tranquillity for a total relaxation and enjoyment in a unique environment. The lake offers abundant of recreational activities such as cave exploration, fishing, kayaking, camping, jungle trekking and house boating experience. The houseboat travels to waterfalls, islands and fishing sites providing an exhilarating adventure for nature lovers.

Kenyir Lake is located approximately 55 kilometres from Kuala Terengganu with Pengkalan Gawi jetty as its gateway. Kenyir Lake is also the gateway to Malaysia National Park through Tanjong Mentong.

Kenyir Lake Attractions


Lasir Waterfall – this 500 feet high waterfall is the largest and most popular among visitors. The waterfall drops gracefully into the level of bounder ponds of water creating a natural five level of pond. It is the best place to enjoy a refreshing swim and ideal as a camping site.

Bewah Cave – this mysterious cave offers amazing sights of towering limestone hills. The tunnelling chamber of the cave is filled with thousands of bats resting upside down on the ceiling.

Taat Cave – the cave walls are lined with stunning white limestone and housed some of the most impressive and fascinating stalactites and stalagmites in the state of Terengganu.

Mount Lawit – the highest mountain in the state of Terengganu at 1519 metres high.

Mount Gagau – well known for its annual mountain challenge organised by the Terengganu state government

Kenyir Dam – the construction of the dam took 15 years to complete. The Kenyir Dam has helped to reduce the flood levels at the lower Terengganu River basin.

Kenyir Lake is located in the state of Terengganu. If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur City, use the Karak Highway and head towards Ajil, Kuala Berang and onwards to Kenyir. Another alternative journey is via the coastal road passing through Kemaman, Dungun, Kuala Terengganu, Kuala Berang and finally to Kenyir Lake.

There is one direct bus Kenyir Express that departs daily from Kuala Lumpur City to Gawi Jetty. Taxi services are available from any major towns in Terengganu direct to Gawi Jetty. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.

There are two jetties at Kenyir Lake. Gawi Jetty is the main gateway to Kenyir Lake while Jenagor Jetty is used mostly by the houseboats.

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