I Hiked A few of Malaysia’s Most Spectacular Waterfalls — Right here’s How You Can, Too

The verdant forests that encompass Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, really feel uncared for, and in a way, they’re. Early one morning final June, I walked alongside a path inside Templer Park with Kovin Siva, the founding father of Mowgli Enterprise, an adventure-travel firm. “We’ve got stunning waterfalls, however they’re not visited actually because the paths have grow to be overgrown,” Siva informed me.

Malaysia is likely one of the world’s most biodiverse nations, however preserving its nature websites has not been a nationwide precedence, leaving many mountain climbing trails in disrepair. Siva, who organizes day journeys and in a single day excursions all through the nation, in addition to in Indonesia, believes tourism will help: “Inviting the general public helps us shield our forests.” 

Whereas there are well-known falls just a few hours outdoors town (like Lata Iskandar, a multitiered cascade within the verdant Cameron Highlands), for a style of Kuala Lumpur’s wild facet, select from these trails, all a brief drive from the capital.

Lata Medang

This 6.6-mile hike begins close to a village that’s residence to the Orang Asli, Malaysia’s Indigenous neighborhood (Orang Asli means “first individuals” in Malay). Take the suspension bridge throughout the Pertak River, then comply with the banks of the Sungai Luit as you make your manner towards the tiered Higher Medang Falls.

Templer Park 

Wildlife-spotting alternatives abound on this forest reserve. Early-morning hikers are greeted by the sounds of gibbons and hornbills; in the event you’re fortunate, you would possibly spot the tracks of a black leopard. The shortest stroll, which takes lower than an hour, goes to the swimming pools on the foot of the falls, whereas an extended, extra strenuous route ends on the high, overlooking the jungle. 

Ulu Yam

This 2.7-mile route passes 4 falls, that means there are many locations for a refreshing dip, and is near the well-known Batu Caves — an essential pilgrimage web site for Hindus. 

Extra Journey Concepts: 15 Greatest Waterfall Hikes within the World

A model of this story first appeared within the April 2024 situation of Journey + Leisure below the headline “Into the Mist.”