Recently promoted to Mount Stong State Park, the Jelawang Jungle attracts nature lovers with its rivers, waterfalls, caves and diverse flora and fauna. Billed as a top Malaysian ecotourism destination, the park is a worthwhile stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
The dense jungle hides diverse wildlife species that patient and quiet hikers may encounter. The rarest species include tigers, sunbears, elephants and hornbills. Colonies of gibbons also hide in the forest. Much less elusive is the rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. A trekking guide is essential for anyone hoping to spot wildlife.
Hiring a guide also ensures that you’ll see all of the park’s highlights. There are seven onsite waterfalls, some of which are good for swimming and cooling off after a stiff climb. Mount Stong looms 4,730 feet above sea level and can be conquered on a day hike. The other major attraction is Fish Cave, named for a fish-like rock feature. Your trekking guide will undoubtedly relay a story about Japanese gold squirreled away somewhere in the depths of the cavern.
Accommodation is basic throughout the park, consisting mostly of campgrounds, simple bungalows and a few primitive huts. A favorite place to overnight is at the top of Stong Waterfalls, a seven-level cascade that drops hundreds of feet.
Getting There & Away
The last stop on the way to Jelawang Jungle Park is Dabong, a small town that sits opposite Sungai Galas. From here it is 2 hours, 30 minutes by train to Gua Musang, where mostly sealed road connects to Kuala Lumpur. The drive takes about an hour and brings visitors within reach of Malaysia’s largest international airport, with flights available to major cities across the world. You can also board the northbound train from Kuala Lumpur to Khota Bharu and disembark at Dabong.