The Best National Parks in Malaysia for Nature Enthusiasts

Scenic waterfalls. Rushing rivers. Millennia-old cave systems. Mighty mountains. Malaysia’s national parks spoil visitors with their natural splendors. They are also packed with adventures for those who seek them.

Whether you desire the challenge of a new hiking trail, wish to tackle a canopy walk, or prefer exploring the jungle under the cover of darkness, these beautiful protected areas offer a unique take on the country. Ready to embark on an adventure? Here are the best national parks in Malaysia.

Taman Negara National Park, Pahang

The largest national park in Malaysia stretches over three states: Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu. It is ideal for family trips. Taking the longboat along the Tembeling River or to the Lata Berkoh waterfall provides ample adventure for kids to disconnect from their devices. These boat rides also lead you to a village belonging to the nomadic Batek tribe where you can learn to hunt using a bamboo blowpipe and make fire using reed skin and roots.

If you’re not afraid of heights, the Canopy Walk gives a tree-high view of the enchanting lowland rainforest. Take your flashlights to the night jungle walk or night boat cruise, and see if you can spot the elusive Malay civet cat or flying lemurs in the dark.

Visiting Taman Negara National Park

• Entry fee: RM1 (US$0.25).
• Best time to visit: Between February and September.
• Travel options include driving from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Tahan in just over three hours or taking a bus to Jerantut and switching to a local bus to Kuala Tahan.
• Homestays are available, and Mutiara Taman Negara Resort is conveniently located within the national park.

Mt Kinabalu National Park, Sabah

Climbing Mt Kinabalu is not for the faint of heart; however, strolling around Kinabalu National Park in a cool climate is a good option for leisure travelers. You may be easily mesmerized by the highest point between the Himalayas and New Guinea, but remember this UNESCO World Heritage Site has plenty more to offer. Engage in daily guided walks to learn interesting facts and spot carnivorous pitcher plants, blooming orchids, and the world’s largest flower, Rafflesia, along its nature trail.

If you do wish to climb Mt Kinabalu, there are two summit trails: Ranau Trail (moderately easy with flights of stairs) or Kota Belud Trail (a challenging path with wooden steps and rope climbs). Only a limited number of climb permits are issued daily, with some hikers booking months in advance.

Visiting Mount Kinabalu National Park

• Entrance fees for Malaysians: RM3 ($0.72) for adults and RM1 ($4.20) for children.
• For non-Malaysians: RM15 ($3.60) for adults and RM10 ($2.40) for children.
• Travel options include driving from Kota Kinabalu in two hours or taking the bus from Kota Kinabalu North Bus Terminal.

Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak

As the gateway to Gunung Mulu, Sarawak’s second-highest mountain, thrill-seekers flock to Gunung Mulu National Park for its million-year-old cave systems, underground rivers, and fascinating limestone formations. You will not only get a workout from a good hike but also get the chance to explore Deer and Lang Caves, one of the world’s largest cave passages.

If your stamina allows, there is an extreme three-day hike to the Mulu Pinnacles, which promises an unparalleled view of the stunning limestone formation after navigating vertical steel ladders and rope sections.

Visiting Gunung Mulu National Park

• Entrance fees for Malaysians: RM15 ($3.60) for adults and RM5 ($1.20) for children.
• For non-Malaysians: RM30 ($7.20) for adults and RM10 ($2.40) for children.
• Park entrance fees are valid for five days.
• Travel options include a short flight from Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, or Miri to Mulu via MasWings.

Bako National Park, Sarawak

Bako National Park prides itself on bringing visitors closer to Sarawak’s lush rainforest. Unlike other national parks in Malaysia, you need to take a boat across the South China Sea to reach the park. Once you hop off, you can easily spot proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and Bornean bearded pigs roaming around. The best way to get up close to the mangrove forests and coastlines is by exploring any of its 16 nature trails.

For relaxing walks, the 30-minute Tanjung Sapi trail leads you to a breathtaking view of Telok Assam and the South China Sea. If you have a full day, the Tanjung Rhu trail takes you to the tranquil Rhu peninsula, complete with rock pools.

Visiting Bako National Park

• Entrance fees for Malaysians: RM5 ($1.20) for adults and RM2 ($0.50) for children.
• For non-Malaysians: RM10 ($2.40) for adults and RM5 ($1.20) for children.
• To get to Bako National Park, take the bus from Kuching (Rapid Kuching, No.1) to Bako Village boat jetty, and then charter a boat to the park.