Tourist Attractions & Monuments Malaysia

On a limestone hill of 122 m height is hidden a vast cave containing 40 statues of Buddha of which the highest measures 13 m. This temple was founded in 1926 by Chon Seng Yee who discovered the cave. He was a lover of painting and had the various caves and galleries decorated, which are still being completed by pilgrim artists. After the main altar, steps lead you through the galleries until you reach an exit on the side of the cliff. A surprising view of the industrial area and the mountains awaits you a little higher up.

Small flat-bottomed barges sail up and down the Malacca River from two piers: Taman Rempah and Muara, next to the Maritime Museum. They cover a 9 km round trip, take around 40 minutes and are accompanied by very informative commentaries. You can book online to avoid the queues. This is a pleasant and relaxing way to learn about the city, its architecture and history, and especially to appreciate the murals that decorate the buildings along the river.

Built in 1781 on land donated by the Dutch, this temple is one of the first Hindu temples built in Malaysia. It is dedicated to the divinity Vinayagar, better known as Ganesh, the elephant-headed god. There is also an altar dedicated to Muruga, Ganesh's younger brother, much revered by the Tamil Nadu Indians. Note the Dutch influence in the architecture, including the entrance, walls and roof, which make this Hindu temple a unique example.

For theme park fans, Sunway Lagoon is a former tin mine transformed into a huge theme park. The complex features several themes: amusement park, water park, zoological park, "horror" park, park dedicated to young children and extreme activity park. Some activities, such as go-karting, bungee jumping and diving, require an extra charge. Everything you need for a day or weekend of fun and enjoyment is within easy reach: hotels, restaurants, cafés, bars, souvenir stores...

One of Langkawi's major attractions. This cable car takes you 708 m up to the summit of Mount Mat Cincang. The view of the archipelago, the Datai Peninsula and the Andaman Sea is breathtaking. The SkyBridge, an impressive suspension bridge inaugurated in 2004, offers a 100 m walk over the void. A footpath leads to the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls, which can also be seen from the cable car.

Standing on stilts, the magnificent Strait of Malacca Mosque is one of the few mosques in the world to have been built directly on water. It was inaugurated on November 24, 2006 by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the supreme ruler of Malaysia. At the time, he was Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, King of Perlis. The mosque's highly original design blends Middle Eastern and Malay architectural elements, modern and ancient. At high tide, it seems to float on the water, offering a superb spectacle.

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is world-renowned for its exemplary work in primate protection. He takes in orphans, captive monkeys and the wounded. After the necessary care and survival training for the youngest, they are released into the wild. Unfortunately, some of them cannot be reintegrated and remain in the centre. Monkeys are fed twice a day, bananas and milk. There are nearly 200 of them living on the reserve, and they only come if they are hungry. Thus, the guarantee of seeing them is not guaranteed and their number on the platforms varies according to the days. The centre attracts a large number of tourists, and almost all stop here at least one night before continuing on to Sipadan, Kinabatangan or Sukau. Nonchalant apes are fed at 10am and 3pm and it is better to arrive 30 minutes before in order to optimize the chances of observing them from the equipped platforms. Very shy in their natural environment, it is in Sepilok that you will have the best chance to see them and bring back unforgettable photos. The influx of tourists can make the experience somewhat unpleasant, but most of them only stay for about 20 minutes and leave with a smile on their face. Also, to enjoy a little more calm, try to stay until the doors close at 11am or 4pm. Be sure to visit the outdoor nursery before you leave.

At the foot of Mount Santubong, this cultural village offers visitors faithful reproductions of the habitat and lifestyle of seven ethnic groups and communities living in Sarawak. Visitors are invited to discover the lifestyles of the Bidayuh, Iban, Orang Ulu, Melanaus, Penan, Chinese and Malays. Inside each house, a representative of the community guides the visitor through the architecture, habitat, traditions and crafts: they practice their art, play music, shoot blowpipes or weave, cook and prepare sago. Although a re-enactment is always artificial, this one is worth the detour for its actors' willingness to share their customs with you in a living way. The only one of its kind in Malaysia, the project is run by the communities and their representatives, not by a profit-driven private company. What's more, the diversity of the tribes and communities also informs us about the history of Sarawak's settlement. In a half-day visit, you can get a broad overview of Sarawak's diversity, something almost impossible in a single trip to Borneo. The tour ends with a 45-minute folk dance show held in the late morning and afternoon. A stop at the restaurant, where you can sample local specialities at reasonable prices, is a must.

The fantastic Rainforest World Music Festival (www.rwmf.net) is held here every year in late June/early July.

With its red bricks, large white cross at the top and multitude of multicolored trishaws waiting for the tourist right in front, you can't miss this pretty Dutch-inspired church. The foundation stone was laid in 1741 to commemorate the centenary of the capture of Malacca by the Dutch and to replace the aging St. Paul's Church. Construction took 12 years and the church was consecrated in 1753, making it the first Reformed church in the city. In 1838, the church was rededicated according to the rites of the Anglican Church and renamed Christ Church. It is the oldest Protestant church in Malaysia, and Sunday services are still held here in three languages. Mass in English takes place at 8.30am, in Mandarin at 10.30am and a final mass in Malay at 4.30pm. Visits to the church are forbidden during services.

Access to the church is via the side and adjoining store. The bare interior can seem a little austere. The central aisle is lined with ancient tombstones, recounting a part of Malacca's history. Some tombs bear inscriptions in Armenian, Portuguese, English and Dutch. Modern stained glass adorns the windows. Note the lovely solid-wood benches with wicker seats.

The church bell predates construction and must have been salvaged from another building, as no one knows where it came from. But it is dated 1698. The treasure cannot be visited.

This beautiful 320-hectare park of mangrove and scrubland is a renowned bird reserve: 300,000 migratory birds of 30 different species stop off here every year on specially created artificial lakes. 130 species of birds live here permanently. You can also see monkeys and all the species of the mangrove. There are trails to explore the park. You can pick up a map at reception. You can also rent a cottage for the night.

Don't be put off by the steep steps to the top of Bukit St Paul. The view of the city from the peak is superb. The church was originally a chapel built in 1521 by a Portuguese captain. It was enlarged in 1556 and named Church of the Mother of God(Igreja de Madre de Deus). St. Francis Xavier was a regular visitor, and is said to have performed several miracles here. All that remains today are the walls, pierced by windows, and the tombstones that paved the nave are now leaning against the walls.

Gunung Kajang. Paya Beach is the classic starting point for the ascent of Gunung Kajang, the highest point on the island. It takes a full day of hiking to climb the 1,031 metres of altitude difference. The trail winds through the jungle, and sometimes you have to climb big rocks across the slippery path. You may have the chance to see buckshot or snakes during the 5 hours of ascent. The presence of a guide is mandatory.

Waterfall. The shortest and easiest path leads to several waterfalls where you can cool off. Allow 1 hour's walk to the last waterfall (cascade 7).

Gunung Gading. This hike requires a good level of fitness. Allow 3.5 hours' walk to the summit and at least 2 hours' descent.

Batu Berkubu. About 2 hours' walk from the summit of Gunung Gading is the former Communist guerrilla base camp. Bring water accordingly.

They are home to picturesque waterfalls. Most of them are located near Pasir Puteh, about 35 km from Kota Bharu. The most popular, Jeram Pasu, is on the road in Kampung Pak Amat. Jeram Lenang is another waterfall appreciated for its tranquility by the locals despite its small size (12 m). But one of the jewels of the region is undoubtedly Lata Beringi. From the top of its 120 m, it is also one of the largest waterfalls in Malaysia and its lush jungle setting makes it one of the most popular camping sites.

This is the lake's most spectacular waterfall, 150 m high. It's also a tranquil picnic spot and, if you're brave enough, you can walk up the waterfall to the natural pools that make superb swimming spots. The site is off the beaten track, amid orchids, tropical trees and lush green mosses. It takes half an hour by boat from the Pengkalan Gawi jetty.

Apart from Lasir, other waterfalls are well worth a visit: Saok is increasingly popular, with its sandbar (15-minute boat ride). Tembat, on the other hand, is a wild and tumultuous waterfall with several levels, ideal for campers and for the magnificent views from the path that runs alongside it (allow an hour by boat). Other waterfalls include Petang, Leban, Terenggan, Lata Terap and Petuang.

The hilly areas around the lake are covered in primeval forests. Mount Cherbau dominates the Bongsu, Tembat, Raung, Kachang, Gagau and Gajah Terom mountains. The Bewah and Taat hills are rich in legends handed down from generation to generation by the locals. Often shrouded in mist, these hills are so fascinating that research has been undertaken to unravel the mysteries surrounding these two caves, famous for their magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.

Call on Ping Anchorage to organize an excursion to discover these sites.

At the north-western end of the island, 1,126 hectares of tropical forest await you. It is very pleasant to walk along well marked trails. There are several hiking trails ranging from 1 to 6 hours of walking, which can be done alone or with a guide. Check with the park office for more information. Don't miss Monkey Beach and Turtle Beach, two beaches renowned for their beauty and their inhabitants, monkeys and turtles respectively. It will take you almost two hours to get there, and prepare water supplies.

Passed the ark on which its name is written, entering a red courtyard. The temple houses a beautiful altar with four statues of Killed Péh Kong, easily recognisable to its happy air and pilgrim's stick. Above the statues is a covered parchment parchment.

To go to the most famous Georgetown building, Dr Kongsi, you have to take Cannon Street, between the Yap Temple and the Chinese bistro, with, on the right, beautiful restored Chinese houses. We turn left under a vault named Cannon Square, which is the place where Dr Kongsi rises. On the left, facing the temple, a narrow lane overlooks Lebuh Armenian. The holes, visible in the walls, dates fighting between secret societies, around 1860. The windows were bouchées, because we were pulled from one window to the other, and, as the ruelle is not 2 m wide, you could not miss it! In order to restore order, the English were forced to bring the Singapore Sepoys to the barrel of the belligerents. Hence the name of Cannon Square.

In front of Butterfly Park, this ensemble is the only one of its kind in Malaysia. It may leave Western visitors indifferent: Its originality is to be constructed strictly following the principles of feng shui (fire and water, the art of Chinese géomancie). Each element has a precise place to be the most perfect in order to optimize the approval, the Qi (power) and the prosperity of the Resort occupants.

A pleasant place to take the air, with hiking trails or mountain biking trails. You can even camp it: contact Campground & (06) 232 8401 - Fax (06) 529 41 76.

200 species of butterflies, with rare species such as Raja de Borneo.

Endau Rompin National Park in Johor, Malaysia, is a true paradise for nature lovers. With its breathtaking scenery, rivers, waterfalls and hikes, it offers a unique experience in the middle of an unspoilt jungle. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of wild animals such as elephants and tigers. To make the most of this park, we recommend booking a guided tour with a local guide, who will take you through the various sites and show you the hidden treasures of the region. Tour prices can vary, so it's advisable to negotiate with local agencies. Lunch is usually included in the price.

Ping Anchorage Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd is a travel agency located in Kuala Terengganu. The agency offers a variety of tours and activities to discover Malaysia's nature, culture and heritage. They specialize in island tours, with packages specially designed to promote the conservation of coral reefs and marine life in the country's marine parks. They also offer ecological adventure tours, such as jungle trekking, birdwatching, river rafting and more. In the rainforests of Malaysia. In addition to predefined tours, Ping Anchorage also offers tailor-made itineraries. They have offices in Kuala Terengganu, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kota Bharu, and a fleet of mini-buses, tour buses and speedboats. The agency is recognized as one of Malaysia's top tour operators and has won several tourism awards.

You must contact this official office before entering the park. A guide is required for your trip. You can find one at Kampung Peta's headquarters. Furthermore, an entry permit is also required, plus other permits if you wish to fish in the park waters or prolong your stay.

Called the Cave of Legends, it displays verses from the Koran engraved on its walls. But the most famous legend tells that Garuda (the winged phoenix) prevented the marriage between the prince of Rome and the princess of China, so that the union of these two superpowers would not harm the small kingdoms of the world. So he kidnapped the princess to keep her in that cave. The proof is in the rock that looks like a sleeping princess. Accessible only by sea, the agencies that offer a tour in the mangroves of Langkawi stop here.

This 91-metre high waterfall is one of Langkawi's attractions. A large car park lined with shops testifies to this. From there, just go up the asphalt road and turn left into the forest following a prepared path to reach the foot of the waterfall. You can admire the stone wall and its seven natural pools filled with spring water from Mount Cincang. To reach the top of the waterfall, simply climb the 638 steps from the parking lot. Be careful, during the monsoon season, steps and rocks can be very slippery.

This is where the Alor Setar bazaar is held, in a huge hall with numerous stores. You'll find absolutely everything on several floors. On the first floor, you'll find edible goods, including spices, dried fruit and a few hawkers. As you climb the upper floors, you'll find bargains to be had in handicrafts (beautiful woven baskets) and textiles(batiks at attractive prices). As Alor Setar is not a very touristy town, prices are reasonable, but don't hesitate to negotiate.

This museum is a good introduction to the coutumes customs and culture. As clothing, musical instruments, descriptions of the rites of marriage or their religion animist, visitors can thus have an overview of the life of these Aboriginal people. To get there, take bus 174 of the terminus Lebuh Ampang.

When Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah made Shah Alam the capital of Selangor State in 1974, he wanted a large mosque and a state museum. The Museum of Futuristic Architecture opened its doors in 1989. He is responsible for promoting Selangor's culture and arts to the public. Different themes are presented in a succession of rooms: Prehistory, Arts and Culture, Environment, Sports and Islam are on the programme. Many objects are on display and slideshows can be used to reconstruct periods or environments.

We provide the address more for the consultation of the website than the information to be gleaned on the spot. It is actually the Ministry of Tourism, which is more concerned with managing tourism politically and economically than with welcoming tourists. You will find on their site all the actors of the tourism industry in Malaysia, in a rather dense and somewhat indigestible directory. Unfortunately, there are no filters to refine your search and you have access to local agencies, bus or plane companies, etc.

Tourism Branch Malaysia.

The «Seven Lagoons Beach» is also the Rendez-vous of the International Kites Festival (Pesta Wau), which is held in June. This beach is located on the border of Thailand and Kelantan. 

The "beach with the whispering breeze", shaded by casuarinas, is a relaxing spot. Although it's quite a distance from Kota Bharu, it's still possible to spend the day there. It lies on the border with the state of Terangganu. From the main terminal, take bus 3 to Pasir Puteh. Then take bus 96 to Kuala Besut. The long, sandy beach, fringed with coconut palms and pine trees, is renowned for its refreshing breeze. Deserted, especially on weekdays, it's easy to feel like Robinson Crusoe disembarking on his island.

Also called "the melodic beach", it is the most beautiful beach on the coast and is very much appreciated by picnics and campers. 

Its original name was Pantai Cinta Berahi, meaning "the beach of passionate love". This didn't please the Sultan, who renamed it Pantai Cahaya Bulan ("the moonlit beach"), so it's still PCB. It's a long beach where you can sunbathe and relax in good cottages, preferably during the week. One drawback, however, is that it can be dirty, especially where the bungalows are concentrated. It's advisable not to undress too much on the beach, or you risk attracting attention. Beware of the waves, which can be very strong.

Once the climb is over, hikers often decide to relax in these hot springs. Although these are not natural pools but artificial ones, it's good to pamper your muscles in the soothing sulphurous waters, surrounded by lush vegetation after hours of walking. The complex also includes a beautiful garden and a suspended walkway above the canopy, both of which are well worth a visit. A mini-waterpark is also available for the younger guests.

A little further away from the main diving spots, Paya Beach is ideal for beginners and snorkelers. There are fewer sites to explore, but they're still just as spectacular. It's also a good option for exploring the few sites to the south of the island, which are much less frequented. Aman Tioman Dive Centre and Divers Cove Asia (at Paya Beach Resort) are the most serious PADI-certified diving centers.

Tumuk. The islet can be easily swum to from the north of the bay, making it a snorkeler's paradise. You'll come across hawksbill turtles and barracudas.

Pulau Labas. A 20-minute boat ride northwest of Paya, the island's drop-off is packed with caves and passages to explore. The north of the island, with its shallow waters, is ideal for inexperienced divers looking for a thrill. With a little more experience, you can descend to 20 meters through narrow passages lined with fan-shaped coral. A great place for macro divers.

Golden Reef. This submerged reef of large boulders is another paradise for coral lovers. Located not far from the popular Tiger Reef (see diving at Tekek), you can enjoy the same wealth of pelagic life without the risk of getting hit by flippers.

Pulau Sepoi. This islet is the furthest west of Tioman. Its large rocks are among the most spectacular formations in the region. The shallow waters (15 meters max.) make it a very good spot for inexperienced divers.

Built in 1870, this beautiful Chinese temple is located on the banks of the river and is the oldest temple in Sibu. Icon of the city with its 7-storey pagoda, it is the building not to be missed. Partly destroyed during the Second World War, it was rebuilt in 1957 with decorative objects from China and modified several times in the decades that followed. It is dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, a sailor from Fujian, considered as the incarnation of the god Fu, symbol of prosperity. Tua Pek Kong is revered only in Malaysia and idolatry began in Penang.

On 24 ha, this protected park gives the possibility to observe typical animal and plant species in a very special mangrove environment. You won't miss the goby fish, fiddler crabs or the egrets and kingfishers, each crawling, swimming or flying among the mangroves. To do so, simply follow the 1.5 km stilted route and climb the observation tower to dominate the surroundings.

This company, located at Pontoon^No. 12 on the Waterfront, offers half-hour or hour-long excursions. We appreciate the small, low wooden boats, which are more intimate and relaxing than the usual cruisers. It's the perfect way to admire the city from the water, without getting exhausted, but beware of the mosquitoes at dusk! Don't hesitate to speak directly to the staff if you have any special requests, such as a private tour or outside the posted times.

A 6-hour drive from Sandakan, a 4x4 is needed to reach this beautiful, pristine valley. This is a research center that was recently opened to the public. A wide variety of impeccable and very comfortable accommodation for this remote corner of the jungle is available on site, from dormitories to private bungalows with terraces. Check-in with park staff is mandatory on arrival. This is where you'll get information on the various hikes available and be allocated a guide.

Imbak Waterfall. This large waterfall is the most accessible walking point. You can even drive the kilometer to the center. A few steps up a wooden staircase take you to the observation platform. You can then descend to the foot of the waterfall and bathe in the refreshing waters.

Imbak Forest. From the waterfall, a suspension bridge spans the river. A number of well-maintained trails allow you to explore the beautiful primary forest of Imbak. Allow 40 minutes' walk on easy to medium terrain.

Hiking. Hiking trails take you up into the surrounding mountains. A 2-6 hour hike is possible on steep, slippery trails that require good physical fitness.

Ornithology. A stroll around the center at sunrise will enable you to observe many colorful birds, such as the Asian fairy-bluebird and the rhinoceros hornbill.

Apart from the sporty Berjaya dive center, Tekek's most important dive centers are the Tioman Dive Centre and Moby Deck. Diving takes place between 2 m and 27 m, within a 20-minute boat ride. The best times to dive are from March to May and September to November; from June to August, visibility is considerably lower. The centers are closed from December to February. Tekek centers are PADI or NAUI certified.

House reef. Opposite Tekek beach, the shallow waters are ideal for novices and snorkelers alike. It's a good place to discover different varieties of coral and colorful tropical fish. A school of yellow-tailed barracuda.

Tomuk. Less than 10 minutes south of Tekek, the site drops to 20 meters. Large boulders form nooks and crannies to explore, lined with soft corals and home to nudibranchs. Perfect for macro enthusiasts. But a strong current can sometimes make diving difficult.

Tiger Point. This submerged pinnacle between the islets of Labas and Sepoi can be reached in around twenty minutes. The dive starts at 8 meters and descends to 22 meters. Powerful currents and rugged terrain require good control. This exceptional site is relatively uncrowded and therefore in very good condition. Slopes, canyons and rocks are carpeted with soft and hard corals and sponges. Large schools of mackerel, yellowtail bream, pike and trevally are seen on every dive.

For those who want to relax, the beaches are located on the north coast of the island, about kilometres from the ferry terminal.

Every night thousands of fireflies start flashing in search of a partner for the night. The ideal time to see this natural wonder is around 7:30 pm. It is easy to rent a sampan or a small boat at the park jetty to go up the canals through the mangroves. Excursions take place between 7pm and 10.30pm and last between 30 and 40 minutes. A piece of advice: take your mosquito repellent as these areas are very swampy. The use of flash is prohibited.

Opened in 1905, this school is one of the most prestigious elite institutions in ancient Malaya. Some of the leaders of contemporary Malaysia, including former Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak, were educated here. Anthony Burgess, author of The Malay Trilogy and Clockwork Orange, also taught here for a time. Sons of wealthy families receive a thoroughly British education at this school, which professes the precept of "a healthy mind in a healthy body". Studies in English and intensive sports are compulsory.

40 kilometres from Miri, this long beach of fine sand and rocks offers superb sunsets. Its rock formations are impressive, including the famous Horse Stone, a natural stone bridge that evokes a drinking horse. Around the car park, street caterers concoct appetizing local dishes. If it may not be worth a dedicated trip, check with your organizer or driver to see if the beach is on the road when returning from an expedition near Miri.

Main path. The path runs along the coast. It is well signposted by a colour code. 50 minutes are enough to reach a belvedere with a picnic area.

Selunsur rapids. To reach the Selunsur rapids, it takes about 2.5 hours to walk.

Turtle and Golden Beach. These two beaches are quite far from the entrance to the Park. It takes 3 hours of walking in the forest to reach them.

Boat rental. Renting a boat for an hour or a day is certainly one of the nicest options to discover the park.

Salang is the ideal location for diving in Tioman, as most of the sites are in the north of the island. You won't have to plan long boat transfers to reach the dive sites. The leading diving center is Salang Bay Divers (with a French-speaking instructor), which is PADI-certified. As on the rest of the island, dive centers are closed from December to February.

Salang Bay & Roger's wreck. Salang Bay is rich in small fish and therefore attracts the biggest fish. You'll see impressive schools of pelagic fish forming incredible ballets. Roger's wreck, a wooden fisherman's boat, lies on the seabed to the north of the bay. The wreck is intact, with the mast still present, and is the subject of interesting outings.

Pulau Soyak. This tiny, tree-covered rocky islet lies just opposite Salang. The underwater rocks are covered with a wide variety of soft and hard corals and sea anemones. Many fish and hawksbill turtles reside here: altums (angelfish), napoleons, zebrafish, parrotfish, blue-spotted stingrays, yellow-spotted snappers, eels, barracudas...

Fan Canyon. Off Salang Bay, this site is attached to Coral Island, renowned for its coral. A gentle slope descends to 30 meters. Along the way, a narrow canyon shelters sumptuous fan corals. However, crossing the canyon is prohibited to protect the fragile corals.

This reserve is on the tourist itinerary of wildlife enthusiasts thanks to agencies such as Adventure Alternative Borneo or Borneo Adventure. It's a 4-5 hour drive from Sandakan, first on a tarmac road, then by 4x4 on a gravel road and finally a dirt track. Accommodation is in the huts provided for visiting Forest Department officials. Comfort is simple, but rooms and sanitary facilities are very clean. A restaurant provides food and meals are normally included in the package. You should allow at least 2 nights on site, as transit times are particularly long. You will then be entitled to 3 safaris on the reserve's trails.

Safari. You'll explore the area from the back of a converted pick-up truck. It's not possible to leave the forest tracks, which reduces your chances of spotting wildlife. However, DERAMAKOT is considered one of Sabah's best wildlife spots. If you're very lucky, you may spot a clouded leopard. Occasionally, travelers spot a herd of Bornean elephants, which are numerous in this forest, despite the industrial exploitation. Your chances of seeing orangutans, wild cats and civets, red leaf monkeys, macaques and wild boar are also very high. The forest is a birdwatcher's paradise, with the possibility of spotting 7 species of hornbill.

Lambir Hills Park is 52 hectares in size and boasts numerous hiking trails, from the easiest to the most challenging. They are well-marked and color-coded and intersect one another, making it possible to undertake several treks in a single day. Over 157 species of bird have been recorded here, and botanists are still discovering plants. The park is also home to gibbons, clouded leopards and tarsiers. But the chances of spotting them remain slim, especially for inexperienced eyes. A guide is not compulsory, but recommended if you want to learn more about the natural world around you. Good walking shoes, plenty of water and anti-bleeding socks are essential... And of course a swimsuit, for those who wish to cool off en route in one of the magnificent waterfalls.

Main Trail. This 800 m trail takes 12 minutes to complete and leads to all the other trails. Easy.

Latak Waterfall. Bukit Lambir's most popular hike leads to a beautiful 25-meter-high waterfall. A natural pool with a sandy bottom makes it an ideal spot for a wild swim. For greater peace and quiet, come during the week, because at weekends, the place is very popular with picnickers from Miri. 20 minutes. Easy tour.

Pantu. The almost 2 km-long trail leads through the forest to a 40-meter-high observation tower where you can watch the canopy and the birds. 1h. Medium difficulty.

Bukit Pantu. The hill closest to headquarters offers a beautiful view of the park. You can cool off at the Nibong waterfall on the way. 1h35. Moderately priced.

Pantu Waterfall. This popular 2 km trail takes you to another waterfall, a little wilder and less frequented than Latak. 1h45. Moderate.

Bakam. After Pantu Waterfall, the trail continues through dense forest and climbs gradually. 2 hours 40 minutes. Difficult.

Tengkorong & Dinding Waterfalls. These crystal-clear waterfalls have to be earned, but the reward is that you should be alone. 2 hrs.

Bukit Labir. Climbing the park's highest peak (456 m) requires a good level of physical fitness to cope with some tough passages and a long walk in a very wet climate. Note the transition between dipterocarp forest (tall trees) and heather forest with stunted trees. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with some beautiful wild orchids. You can cool off at the Dinding waterfall on the way back. 3h30. Difficult.

Access to the park begins with a boat trip across the River Niah. Then follow the wooden walkways to the caves. Due to the humidity, these can be very slippery, so good footwear is recommended. You'll also need a flashlight to light your way through the caves. A wide-brimmed hat can be useful if you don't want to collect precious bird droppings on your head. The first cave is an hour's walk away. If you return after dark, you may spot some luminescent mushroom species on the way back.

Traders Cave. The Niah caves are home to tens of thousands of swallows and bats. Local villagers collect the swallows' nests, which are worth a fortune on the Chinese gourmet market. Guano is also collected for use as a natural fertilizer. The Grotte des Marchands was once a meeting place for the swallow's nest and guano trade.

Great Cave. The Great Cave measures 250 m wide at the entrance and 60 m high at the highest point, making it one of the largest cave mouths in Malaysia. But it's only once you've gone deep into the bowels of the cave that you discover its gigantism and the singular atmosphere that reigns there, reinforced by the play of light coming down from orifices in the vault and reflecting on the rock formations with their mineral relief, living like a spirit in the cave. It takes a good hour to explore the cave, during which time you must be careful not to slip on the guano-covered floor. It's not a good idea to hold on to the handrails either. The best time to come to the Grande Grotte is at sunset, to enjoy the incredible ballet of swallows returning to their nests while the bats emerge for their nightly stroll.

Painted Cave. The most famous of Niah's caves attracts visitors for its prehistoric cave paintings. The frescoes depict the journey of the dead to the afterlife. The floor is littered with the remains of boat-shaped coffins. The bones contained in these sarcophagi have been transferred to the Sarawak Museum in Kuching. Archaeological research has shown that this cave was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic era 40,000 years ago. The frescoes, on the other hand, date back to the Iron Age, around 800 BC. The Grotte Peinte is the only cave in Borneo to bear unmistakable witness to a very early human presence.