If you’re looking for some of the best nature experiences in Peninsular Malaysia, look no further than Taman Negara National Park. Sprawled across the states of Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu, this 130 million-year-old virgin rainforest promises nature lovers a wealth of unspoilt gems. From hiking to rapid shooting, there are lots of exciting ecotourism activities to experience at Taman Negara National Park.
Fishing
Taman Negara National Park is a brilliant place for fishing. The national park permits fishing at two fishing spots: Tembeling river for the amateurs and Keniam river for advanced anglers. Some of the famous catches here include Patin, Kelah, Tapah and Baung.
There are also other fishing spots such as Rincing, Kuala Perkai, Rawa and Said. However, reaching these places may take between two to five hours from Kuala Tahan jetty.
It is best to come fishing at Taman Negara National Park during the dry months, between February and September.
Visit Orang Asli Village
The Orang Asli (aborigines) of Malaysia are nomadic folks living in the forest interiors and having a very basic lifestyle. Traditionally, they stay in simple palm-thatched shelters along the riverbanks deep within the jungle.
The Orang Asli at Taman Negara National Park are divided into two ethnic groups: Batek and Semokberi. Watch how these Orang Asli carry out their day-to-day activities such as hunting with bamboo blowpipes when you visit their village.
Bird Watching
Home to over 380 bird species, Taman Negara National Park is the best place to go bird watching in Peninsular Malaysia. Bird watching is usually done along the paths of the park headquarters at Kuala Tahan. Here, the chances of you stumbling upon species like blue-winged leafbird, and the rhinoceros hornbill are great.
The best time to come for bird watching is from May to August, where lots of birds can be seen feasting on figs, which are in season around that time.
Climb Gunung Tahan
Rising to a towering height of 2,187 metres, Gunung Tahan is the tallest peak in Peninsular Malaysia. Hiking here is one of the most difficult and adventurous activities at Taman Negara National Park. Hikers would need to cross rivers, camp overnight in the jungle and go through phases of ascending and descending in the mountains for days. Usually, a hike at Gunung Tahan would take a week in total.
Climbing Gunung Tahan should only be attempted with the presence of a certified guide and for those who are extremely fit.
Go rapid shooting
Rapid shooting is one of the most exhilarating activities to try at Taman Negara National Park, especially on a scorching hot day. Hop on a wooden boat for a ride down Tembeling River. Disembarking from either Kuala Tahan jetty or Kuala Terengganu, the journey will be quite a ride as you will encounter seven different rocky rapids!
While experiencing the rapids is thrilling, the lush and calming scenery surrounding the river will make the entire experience much more memorable. So, be prepared to get splashed and to be awe-stricken by the beauty of nature.
So what are you waiting for? Add Taman Negara National Park to your #MalaysiaTrulyAsia bucket-list now so that you can plan your #TravelLater itinerary ahead.
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