Feeling stressed and tired? Then soaking yourself in a hot spring might do the trick 🙂
Hot springs are natural pools of hot groundwater heated by geothermal forces. According to various studies, the mineral-rich waters have a wide array of health benefits. For example, it can treat joint pain and sinus issues.
The good news is, you don’t have to travel far for a relaxing break because hot springs can be found all over Malaysia. Here are 8 local hot springs you should visit when you need a little “me time”:
1. Sungai Klah Hot Spring Park, Perak
Opened in December 2003, Sungai Klah Hot Spring Park is reputed to be one of the best managed hot springs in Malaysia. The park is a great place for a quick getaway and it offers various packages for families, friends, and couples. While the park’s main attraction is the hot spring pools, egg-boiling at the 100°C water area is also a popular activity among visitors.
Other facilities include water reflexology, board walk, traditional massages.
- Address: Sungai Klah Hot Spring Park, 35600 Sungkai, Perak
- Tel: 05-438 8803/438 8805
2. Poring Hot Spring & Nature Reserve, Sabah
Poring Hot Spring & Nature Reserve is part of the huge Kinabalu National Park and was first developed by the Japanese during World War II. As the hot springs contain sulfuric minerals that can help relieve muscle sores and aches, it is the perfect place for tired hikers to rest and rejuvenate their bodies after long hours of climbing Mount Kinabalu.
Aside from the hot springs, the park has other interesting attractions such as the butterfly farm, the Poring Orchid Conservation Center, the tropical garden, the Poring canopy walkway, and the Rafflesia flower site.
- Address: 89300 Ranau, Sabah
- Tel: 08-887 8801
- Website
3. Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat, Perak
Nestled in a lush 16.19-acre valley located in Ipoh, Perak, the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is one of Malaysia’s most popular (and luxurious) relaxation spots. The retreat is a nature lover’s haven as it is surrounded by 260 million-year old towering Paleozoic limestone hills, verdant rainforest, rejuvenating geothermal hot springs, natural caves, and cascading waterfalls.
Besides the geothermal hot spring dipping pools, the blissful hideaway also boasts 25 garden and water villas as well as a pampering spa and wellness centre.
- Address: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat No. 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, Sunway City Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan
- Tel: 05-210 7777
- Website
4. Kampung Panchor Hot Spring, Sarawak
Kampung Panchor Hot Spring, which is situated at Kampung Panchor Dayak (about 40 km from Kuching City), the ideal place for people who are seeking natural treatment. According to Natural Resources and Environment Deputy Minister Datuk Sri Dr James Dawos, the heated water contain various dissolved minerals, which can cure certain skin diseases and even heart disease. Besides that, the hot springs surrounded by forest and nature, making it a serene and tranquil spot for a relaxing getaway.
- Address: 1305, Kampung Panchor Dayak93050 Kuching, Sarawak
5. Hulu Tamu Hot Springs, Selangor
Located in Batang Kali (about 60km from Kuala Lumpur), Hulu Tamu Hot Springs is a well-known tourist attraction in Selangor. As the entrance to the hot springs is free (yes, you don’t have to pay a single cent for it), the area is often crowded by locals, especially in the evening. Many visitors would also collect buckets of water to bring home because they believe that the water has healing properties.
- Address: Hulu Tamu, 44200 Batang Kali, Selangor
6. Lost World of Tambun Hot Springs and Spa, Perak
The Lost World Of Tambun Hot Springs and Spa boasts the first and only water theme park in Malaysia with natural hot springs. It is a calm and majestic sanctuary that features mineral-rich and natural bio-thermal hot spring pools. The park has 9 main areas: Saphira’s Lair, Crystal Spa, Infinity Pool, The Geyser Of Tambun, Steam Cave, Top of the World Pool, and Foot Spa.
- Address: No. 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1, Sunway City Perak, Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak
- Tel: 05-542 8888
- Website
7. La Hot Springs, Terengganu
The hot water at La Hot Spring originates from deep under the ground and seeps through cracks, creating a pool with a temperature ranging from 50 – 75°C. Like Poring Hot Spring in Sabah, the water also contains sulfur and is believed to have healing properties for various illnesses like nerve ailments, stroke, and high blood pressure.
There are also man-made hot hot water pools for children and elders to enjoy.
- Address: Sungai Peng, 22010 Jerteh, Terengganu
- Website
8. Air Hangat Village, Kedah
Planning a short weekend trip to Pulau Langkawi? Then be sure to add Air Hangat (otherwise known as Ayer Hangat) Village to your to-go list!
The local attraction is a modern complex decked with an impressive 3-tier hot spring fountain and an 18m-high carved river stone mural depicting the story of Air Hangat. Legend has it that 2 giants – Mat Cincang and Mat Raya – got into a big fight during the wedding of their children. While throwing pans and pots at each other, a jug of boiling water fell into this place, hence forming Air Hangat (“hot water” in Malay).
It is also interesting to note that the hot springs at Air Hangat Village are natural saltwater hot springs.
- Address: Jalan Air Hangat, Mukim Air Hangat, 07000, Langkawi
- Tel: 04-959 1357
- Website
Sources: Malaysia Vacation Guide, Expat Go, Sabah Tourism, Langkawi Insight, gentinghighlands.info/ Featured image: Expat Go.
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