Covering 47 square miles of Malaysia’s state of Pahang, Kenong Rimba State Park is situated in a picturesque valley. Beyond its natural appeal, this area is known for the unique culture of the indigenous Batek tribe.
The tropical rainforests are home to out-of-this-world creatures like flying lizards and carnivorous pitcher plants. Flying squirrels swoop from tree to tree while elephants may be spotted lumbering through the undergrowth. The world’s largest flower, the rafflesia, also blooms here.
Caving is a favorite activity. Tour guides lead two- to six-day treks through the rainforest, stopping by to explore a cave or two along the way. The most impressive cave is Gua Hijau, and it is home to colonies of horseshoe bats. Be warned that these creatures are smelly and messy so it is better to enjoy the cave from the outside. Gua Batu Tinggi is quieter and boasts several varieties of orchids.
Accommodation is basic and includes a few ‘chalets’ (more like dormitories) and campsites. Most visitors join a tour and enjoy picnic lunches in caves or by waterfalls while taking dinner back at the base camp.
Getting There & Away
Access is from Railway Station 9 at Kuala Lipis. From here you have to walk five minutes to the jetty and ride a boat for 20 minutes to the entrance of the park. Kuala Lipis is about 4 hours, 30 minutes (slightly longer by train), where you’ll find a comprehensive international airport.