Taman Negara, MALAYSIA
Airing Date: Nov 1st, 2004
Taman Negara is home to what is reputed to be the oldest jungle in the world. This is because its flora and fauna have evolved naturally for over 130 million years without any major disruption.
Situated in the centre of the Malaysian Peninsula, 250 kilometres north east of Kuala Lumpur, Taman Negara was first protected by state legislation in 1925, becoming King George V National Park in 1938. It was renamed Taman Negara ('national park') after independence, and extended to its current boundaries. Today, it's the most extensive protected area of pristine rainforest in Malaysia and Malaysia's premier National Park.
Taman Negara has an equatorial climate with rainfall throughout the year and no distinct dry season. If you're going in the 'wet' season (November to January) there can be restrictions on trails and boat trips.
Until recently Taman Negara was accessible only by boat. The park covers 4343 square kilometres - over twice the size of Sydney, sprawling across Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu, offering a rare opportunity to visit one of the most pristine rainforests in the world.
Taman Negara comprises lowland forest, higher-altitude cloud forest, hills, waterfalls and lush flora and fauna. It's also home to the indigenous nomadic people, the Orang Asli, whose temporary huts are built of vine and forest-brush only to last a few days until the tribe moves on. Visitors to Taman Negara can accompany a guide to visit these people in the rainforest.
The major activity at Taman Negara is walking through the magnificent jungle. There's a wide variety of walking and trekking possibilities, from an hour's stroll to nine arduous days up and down the 2187metre high Mt Tahan.
The Canopy Walk is suspended 25m above ground between massive trees, allowing closer inspection of the higher reaches of the forest. It's only open 11am to 2:45pm, except Friday when opening hours are 9am until noon.
The facts
Intrepid Travel offer a 14 day Circle Malaysia tour including a visit to Taman Negara, starting from $940 per person. An additional US$200 dollars is payable in cash to cover changes in local expenses. Includes guide, accommodation and park entry. Book before November 15th for 10% discount.
Intrepid Travel
Tel: 1300 360 887
Malaysia Airlines fly to Kuala Lumpur with prices from $1199 ex Perth, $1497 ex Melbourne and $1513 ex Sydney. Includes taxes. Subject to exchange rates. Conditions apply.
Malaysia Airlines
Tel: 13 26 27
Suggested reading material: Lonely Planet
Prices correct at 01/11/04
