Have you watched any of the Ice Age series? Then you must know that during the Ice Ages, a huge portion of the Earth was covered by enormous glaciers that kept the global climate cool. As a result, a lot of tropical rainforests only managed to evolve after those glaciers retreated.
However, Taman Negara’s rainforest was located far away from the glaciers and hence, it developed as early as 130 million years ago, far earlier than the rainforests in Africa and Latin America. Another fun fact that will blow you away is that Taman Negara’s rainforest is way older than the equatorial forests of the Amazon or the Congo, making it one of the most ancient forests on Earth.
Things to do in Taman Negara Pahang
Close to home and ripe with natural treasures, you must not miss the opportunity to explore the magnificent Mother Nature at Taman Negara Pahang. One of its main attractions is the canopy walk which is the world’s longest at 530 m long and 40 m above the ground level. Conquer your fear of height (and exercise!), and enjoy the breathtaking view of flora and fauna along the walkway.
Next, flex your muscles and put on your trekking shoes because the rainforest is one of the best places for trekking in the country. You may choose to explore trails from as short as 30 minutes walk, up to 7 days 6 nights trekking. The rainforest is your oyster!
Don’t sleep early while you’re at Taman Negara Pahang! Join the night walk at the park headquarters or the night safari at Kuala Tahan to experience the unique sights and sounds of nocturnal plants and insects. Look out for luminous mushrooms, luminous fungus, glowing worms, fireflies, bird-eating spiders, cicadas, and other insects. Wildlife such as Slow Loris, owl, Civet Cat, mouse deer, and wild boar are active at night to prey for food. At times, you may spot deadly snakes, scorpions, and spiders.
Have you ever wondered how life far from modernization would be? Head down to visit the Kampung Orang Asli (aborigine settlement). Two ethnics of Orang Asli in Taman Negara – Batek and Semokberi – live a nomadic lifestyle in the vicinity. You will discover how to use bamboo hunting blowpipes and make fire from scratch. Plus, they have their own language!
You must also not miss the rapid shooting where you are going to ride through seven rapids along Sungai Tembeling on a wooden boat. Don’t say we didn’t warn you about getting wet, though!
After your adventurous path, sit back and enjoy the scenic and relaxing boat ride on Lata Berkoh cruise where you may also feed the fishes.
If you’re into fishing, you’re definitely in for a treat at Taman Negara Pahang. Kelah, Patin, Baung, Gohok, Tenggalan, Lampam, Krai, and Tapah fishes are among the most popular catches at Sungai Tembeling and Sungai Keniam.
Apart from that, you may also explore the limestone caves such as Gua Kepayang Besar, Gua Kepayang Kecil, Gua Luas, and Gua Daun Menari. Witness the wondrous rock formation that took thousands of years to form, bats, cave racer snakes, millipedes, centipedes, and giant toads during your time there.
Accommodations at Taman Negara Pahang
Plan your back-to-nature journey at the spectacular rainforest at the following accommodation options: luxury, average, or budget.
For luxury in the breathtaking greenery, head on to Mutiara Taman Negara Resort which is the only resort situated in the park. With prices ranging from RM300+ up to more than RM900, the establishment offers bungalow, chalet, hostel, and dormitory.
If you’re aiming for middle range prices, head on to Xcape Resort @ Taman Negara or Rainforest Resort. Prices may range from RM100+ up to RM300+ for a satisfactory stay near the park.
Apart from that, hostel, motel, and guesthouse at the local villages are popular choices among budget travellers and backpackers. Look for Balai Serama Guesthouse, Nusa Holiday Village, TRV Motel, Holiday View Inn Taman Negara, and Teresek View Motel which offer basic amenities with Malaysian hospitality.
Alternatively, you may also camp out at numerous campsites in the National Park including in Mutiara Taman Negara Resort compound.
How to get to Taman Negara Pahang?
The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Taman Negara Pahang is approximately 242km and it is relatively easy to get there. One of the convenient ways to travel to Taman Negara is by bus. Han Travel and NKS Hotel & Travel are among the many that provides trips from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara Pahang (Kuala Tahan), from as low as RM95 for one-way. If you are travelling from Cameron Highlands, the fare starts from RM95 for one-way. The fare includes a boat transfer to Kuala Tembeling Jetty.
You can book bus tickets to with hassle-free by visiting CatchThatBus website or download its app on Google Play or App Store.
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