One of best ways to keep fit is to start walking, hiking and exercising. Malaysia is a country in Asia that is not only famous for its innumerable tourist attractions but also offers the visitors as well as the local residents plenty of opportunities to return to nature with lots of outdoor activities. Here are our recommendations on some of the best hiking spots in Malaysia that you would love to explore and try out.
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1. Bukit Tabur
Though Bukit Tabur is not a well-explored Malaysian destination for hiking, it is a key attraction for hikers. The height of Bukit Tabur is less than five-hundred meters (1,640 feet) and it is situated at Teman Melawat. It enjoys close proximity to the National Zoo of Malaysia. You can get exposed to the skills of rock climbing here as there are various rock sizes. You will take about three hours to complete the hiking trip. There are certain places where the trails can be confusing and tricky. If new to the site, it is better to be accompanied by a guide. The months of September to February are the best times to visit here.
2. Cameron Highlands
When you want to explore some great natural scenery while hiking, then Cameron Highlands is the perfect hiking spot to choose. It is known for the lush greenery and a pleasant climate and has some of the best trekking trails in the world. However, the trailers are only appropriate for experienced trekkers. The entire trekking route takes about two hours to finish. The months of December and January are perfect for hiking here.
3. Mount Kinabalu
When one discusses Malaysia, the subject of hiking is never far off. It is a prominent adventure activity in the country. If you are a climbing enthusiast, Mount Kinabalu is an excellent destination for you and truly represents the charm of Borneo Island; you can complete the entire path to Panalaban in about five hours. A permit from Sabah Parks is a must for the hikers and they should book in advance for staying in Panabalan. February to April is the best time to climb since the climate is good during these months.
4. Penang Hill Loop
This is a renowned name in Malaysia for the hiking enthusiasts. One can complete the hike in Penang Hill Loop through a number of routes. The Botanical Gardens is a famous entrance to begin this trip. For people who are not interested in hiking but want to visit the site, you can travel via a train that will take you up to the hill. It is an extremely tough route in Malaysia. As you continue your hiking, enjoy the natural beauty around you. On your way, you can also see a mosque, temple, different food stalls that sell local delicacies and a bird park. You can complete your journey in about five hours and the months of December to February are the best times to do your hiking here.
5. Broga Hill
Broga Hill or simply Broga is also referred to by many as Bukit Lalang. It got its name from the grass that you can find in abundance in the locality. The site is popular for its scenic views. Since the trek is easily available on foot, both tourists and the locals love this place. The driving distance between Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia and Broga is about 40 minutes.
6. Bukit Keluang, Terengganu
The climb to the summit of Bukit Keluang is really worth the difficult trail you need to cover. It is also known as Bat Hill since the place was previously a home ground for innumerable bats. Though this hill is situated in Terengganu, it is nearer to Kota Bharu. As you reach the top, the views of the sunset or the sunrise are truly spectacular. In case you take breaks in between for drinking water or taking rest, the entire hike can be completed within an hour to around 80 minutes.
7. Bukit Chenuang
Breathtaking
Posted by Chairil Aiman on Sunday, 20 January 2019
This hiking spot is situated at a height of about 850 meters (2,788 ft) and is situated at Hulu Langat in Selangor. You can reach Bukit Chenuang from Kuala Lumpur within just 45 minutes. The trail could be a tough one for the beginners. The entire exercise takes around two and a half hours to complete but climbing down from the peak takes slightly less time.
8. Taman Negara Hiking Trails
Hiking to Gunung Tahan is undoubtedly one of the toughest and most adventurous activities in Malaysia. If you are one of those people who are physically as well as mentally fit, then this is just the right kind of hiking spot for you. In case you are an experienced hiker and game for climbing up and down this difficult trail, you should be prepared to camp for some nights in the forest, comfortable with long distance hiking and crossing the rivers on your way.
Hiking here will be an experience of a lifetime for you. The route has be accessed by the common public since 1999. In recent years, this hiking spot has become a hot favorite with adventure enthusiasts. The trail is situated about 53 km (33 mi) from KL, Malaysia. You can come here for hiking at any time of the year.
9. Gunung Semangkok
Gunung Semangkok is a relatively new hiking trail and the climb can be tough for beginners since a long distance needs to be completed. However, the initial part of this hike is relatively smoother as compared to the rest of it. It takes around twelve to sixteen hours for a fit hiker to complete the entire path. So, it makes sense that you start early for such a challenging hiking expedition. Reaching the summit is not mandatory at all.
10. Apek Hill
There are various entry points to start your hiking journey at Apek Hill. It is situated close to Taman Bukit Hartamas, Taman Segar Perdana, and Taman Cheras Awana. In case you enter through the Jalan 23 point, you should first park your vehicle near the road and then start your nail-biting hike journey. You can complete this challenging journey within approximately five hours.
Now is the time to challenge yourself
So, if you have it in you and you are a real adventure enthusiast, these ten hiking spots in Malaysia are sure to thrill and excite you. But, remember that most of them could be difficult for beginners, and make sure that you are both physically and mentally fit. Happy hiking!
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