With many COVID restrictions lifted, it’s about time that we got out and breathe in the fresh air by hiking. Since it’s going to be the first few memories captured after the restrained period, wouldn’t it be great to have hiking spots which are IG-worthy? Head to any one of these 9 instagrammable hiking trails in Malaysia and snap away while sweating a bucket!
- Mount Kinabalu
Located on the World Heritage Site of Kinabalu Park, Mount Kinabalu stands at a majestic height of 4,095m. The name was derived from the Kadazan word ‘Aki Nabalu’ meaning ‘the revered land of the dead’. Don’t be put off by its moniker, by the time you reach the summit, all the strain and pain of hiking will have paid off. Temperatures at the summit can dip to 4 degrees Celsius so be prepared with warm clothing. The permit costs RM50 to climb, be prepared with cash as cards aren’t accepted. Jom naik Kinabalu!
Address: Ranau, West Coast Division, Sabah, Malaysia.
Contact: 088-523 500
- Bukit Tabur
Known alternatively as Bukit Hangus, Bukit Tabur can be spotted as you drive along the MRR2 Highway. This quartz hill stands 396m tall. Dipterocarp forests make up the greenery here. Once you reach the top of the hill, you will be granted a view of the Klang Gates Dam. Bukit Tabur is packed during New Year’s Eve as the view of KL is visible as well. Magnificent fireworks display can be viewed from the top which is magical at night, like in the movies! This hill is catered to intermediate hikers and beginners may face a slightly tougher time to hike here. At RM5 per person, you can obtain a permit from the Selangor Forestry Department. Let Bukit Tabur make you imagine beauty!
Address: Ulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang Jaya, Selangor.
Contact: N/A
- Broga Hill
Broga Hill is also known as Bukit Lalang. This hill has 3 peaks which offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s an extremely popular hiking place with well-worn hiking trails. During weekends, there is even a small stall at the entrance selling coconut water to replace all those electrolytes lost during the hike. No permits are needed for hiking here and plenty of parking spaces are available at the foot of Broga Hill. Hike at Broga for some scenery pictures that will bomb Instagram!
Address: Jln Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor.
Contact: +6016-676 6057
- Penang National Park
Previously known as the Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve, Penang National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Fun fact: It is the smallest national park in the world! You wouldn’t feel that here, though. There are many things to experience at this national park. Observe up close and personal the Giant Black Squirrel, Reticulated Python and other forms of fauna. Take a 2-hour hike to Pantai Kerachut, a sandy beach with pristine blue waters. If you want to walk through the canopy walkway, a fee of RM5 is chargeable. Hike or camp at this beauty of a site and leave entranced!
Address: Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang, Jalan Hassan Abbas, 11050 George Town, Penang.
Contact: +604-881 3530
- Gunung Lambak
Located in the small but bustling town of Kluang, Johor, Gunung Lambak is a favorite haunt of Battown folks. 510m above sea level, the two peaks of this mountain can be viewed from anywhere in Kluang. Three different hiking trails will lead you to the top with varying difficulty levels. A good picnic spot after hiking is the waterpark at the foot of the mountain. Family-friendly, let the mini-yous enjoy nature too!
Address: Kampung Dato Abdul Rahman Yassin, 86000 Kluang, Johor.
Contact: +6011-6128 3667
- Gunung Nuang
Rated as the 86th highest peak in Malaysia, Gunung Nuang’s strenuous hike will prove worthwhile. Standing 1,493m high, Gunung Nuang is great for hardcore hikers looking for an adrenaline rush. Thick forests line the track and sometimes a machete is needed to clear the path. There are river crossings and deeply rutted clay paths that will make you feel as if you are in the Amazing Race! The view from the summit is perfect for taking pictures as it reminds you of a panoramic view somewhat like the Amazon rainforest! Don’t forget to get a permit which costs around RM20. Set your legs on fire at Gunung Nuang!
Address: Kampung Pungsun, 43100 Hulu Langat, Selangor.
Contact: N/A
- Gunung Jerai
For those of you who enjoy the peace that nature offers, Gunung Jerai is a must-visit place, at least once in your lifetime. Originally known as Pulau Serai, this mountain used to be a beacon for traders who visit Kedah’s port. Located on the border of Kuala Muda and Yan, the mountain stands proudly at 1,217m above sea level. Temperatures can range from 18-25 degrees Celsius, cooling for a hike. The best view is of the vast Kedah paddy fields. Jerai or Serai, we are all heading to Kedah for our next hike!
Address: Jalan Gunung Jerai, Kampung Titi Teras, 08300 Gurun, Kedah.
Contact: N/A
- Pine Tree Trail
The longest and most challenging trail in Fraser’s Hill, Pine Tree Trail is named after the endemic conifers that grow along the trail. These conifers are only found in Malaysia so that’s something to look out for! The highest point is 1,505m above sea level. A permit is required to be obtained from the Pahang Forestry Department. Permit application has to be sent by post with the permit fees. With a view like you’re in Switzerland, you will be stopping many times during the hike just to take pictures! Who cares right, snap away!
Address: 49000 Fraser’s Hill, Pahang.
Contact: +6017-999 7790
- Gunung Belumut
Another beautiful trail in Kluang, Johor is Gunung Belumut. Requiring no permit to hike, this trail is open all year round. A challenging route, hikers take around 5 hours to complete the hike. Grueling though it may be, you can still enjoy quieter surroundings in this famous hiking spot on off-peak days. Expect beautiful mountain top views to take pictures off and boast on social media. Cheeky monkeys will accompany you on your hike, make sure you keep your food away or they will be having lunch instead of you!
Address: Gunung Belumut Recreational Forest, 86000, Johor.
Contact: +607-772 5944
Written by Kartini Kannan
