Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley as a whole are something of concrete jungles. However, if you know where to look, there are some green lungs that you can actually explore via hiking. Not to mention, some of these hiking trails can be super scenic at times!
So, whether you’re looking to lose some weight or to get some great pics for social media, going hiking is always a good option. And to help you get started, we have come up with a list of hiking trails which are accessible and gorgeous. Hope this helps you plan your next hike!
- Taman Rimba Bukit Kerinchi, Kuala Lumpur
Image Credit: Vivian Liang from Google Review (Left), Se Meng Cheong from Google Review (Right)
Bangsar is better known for its nightlife, but folks living in the area have a natural retreat in their own backyard. This hiking spot has paved walkways and even a small waterfall, which draws kids by the dozen.
In terms of facilities, the park has limited parking spots, so consider taking public transport if needed. Also, this park has trails which connect to another hiking spot on this list, Bukit Gasing.
Be sure you know where you are going, otherwise you are going to pop out in PJ!
- Bukit Gasing, Petaling Jaya
Image Credit: Topex BlackRAD from Google Review (Left), Ta Lep from Google Review (Right)
While we are on the topic of Bukit Gasing, might as well talk a little about this popular hiking spot in PJ. It is considered to be largely family-friendly, with trails that range from easy to tough. Residents and visitors from far and wide frequent this trail, where entrance is free.
If you are looking for a good selfie spot, ask for directions to Cardiac Hill. As the name suggests, getting up the slope requires a bit of effort. But once you get to where you want to be, you will know it was all worth it for the perfect picture.
- Bukit Broga, Semenyih
Image Credit: Mun Hao Yoong from Google Review (Left), AR Rahman from Google Review (Right)
Does anyone really need to be introduced to this famous hiking spot? Every day, hundreds of people trek through the jungle, hoping to reach the top of this scenic hill. Standing at 400m above sea level, it takes about an hour to reach the top.
That said, don’t plan your hike up Bukit Broga without doing your homework. The place is a gazetted forest reserve, so you require a permit to do so. As to how to get a permit, The Rakyat Post has a handy guide just for you.
- Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur
Image Credit: Taman Tugu (Left), MC Ng from Google Review (Right)
So-named after the National Monument which stands close by, this urban forest park has around 3km of trails for you to explore. Going hiking here is like going on a scientific expedition, with many plants and trees rarely seen in an urban setting.
In terms of challenge, Taman Tugu is very welcoming to first-time hikers. This is because there are maintained facilities here, such as maps, benches, rest areas and toilets. Amazingly, this place is free to visit, but it closes in the evening.
- Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Kepong
Image Credit: James Maitland-Smith from Google Review (Left), Akif 17 Cheong from Google Review (Right)
In addition to being a research facility for botanists and the like, FRIM is also open to the public on most days. There are 600 hectares of park to explore, with many pretty flowers and interesting plants to capture on film.
The park also has its famous Sky Walk attraction, which lets you walk across the forest canopy far above the ground. It is perfectly safe, though probably more suited for those brave of heart. Do note that entry into FRIM is not free, though the fee is just RM1 for Malaysians.
- Kanching Eco Forest Park, Rawang
Image Credit: Laurent Aubert from Google Review (Left), Kithambari A Nedumaran from Google Review (Right)
Most hikers come to Kanching Eco Forest Park for one thing and one thing only. Deep inside the park is a beautiful waterfall, its water cascading seven tiers, measuring about 208m tall. To get here, hikers can either take an easy path or a more challenging one. There’s an entrance fee of RM2 on weekdays and RM3 on weekends.
- Taman Alam Kuala Selangor, Kuala Selangor
Image Credit: Zia Khan from Google Review (Left), Annt from Google Review (Right)
Fancy life in the swamp? This nature park in Kuala Selangor will give you an idea of what it’s like to live here. Helpfully, the park has a 4 km-long trail which winds through mangrove swamps with colourful wildlife.
Most hikers make the trip here to ascend an observation tower on the park grounds. This gives folks a vantage point to observe the flocks of migratory birds which pass through the area. Some have travelled as far away as Russia! Entry fees are RM4 for adults and RM1 for kids.
- Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Image Credit: Ng Wei Keong from Google Review (Left), Jonathan Koh from Google Review (Right)
Aside from rich neighbourhoods, Bukit Kiara is also famous for having some of the most scenic views in KL. The trails here ranged from easy to difficult, providing you with several workout options. Hiking here takes about 150 minutes, giving you enough time to take in the sights.
- Urban Community Forest, Kuala Lumpur
Image Credit: ucfnetworkbukitpersekutuan.wordpress.com
This community forest was the brainchild of the Malaysian Nature Society, which aspired to preserve the flora and fauna of Bukit Persekutuan. The forest here has been repeatedly threatened by development, hence the need for protection. Of the trails here, the Heritage-Thunbergia is a favourite among first-time and repeat visitors.
You should also check out: Underrated Hiking Spot at Lepoh Waterfall with Amazin’ Graze, An Hour Drive From KL!
Feature Image Credit: KC from Google Review (Left), Tang Kwok Yoon from Google Review (Right)
