For urbanites, looking for a pristine environment that is both scenic and refreshing require some effort. Thankfully, Malaysia is a true paradise.
Besides being blessed with sandy beaches and tropical forests, our country also has plenty of beautiful tropical waterfalls for nature lovers to explore. What’s not to like about waterfalls? Some like to frolic and swim in the pools of these waterfalls, while others enjoy having a picnic and listening to the roar of the crashing water.
Here are 8 waterfalls worth exploring:
1. Sungai Ampang Falls, Kuala Lumpur
Formerly known as Kemansah Fall, Sungai Ampang Falls is located near the National Zoo at Ulu Klang. After passing Kampung Kemansah, you’ll reach the Institut Budaya Baru Melayu. From there, you’ll need to trek for approximately 45 minutes till you hear the sounds of falling water. That’s your cue that you’ve arrived at the first small fall, Lata Shem, or Lower Ampang Fall.
To reach the Middle Ampang Fall (Lata Gitar), which consists of impressive vertical and near-vertical falls, it would require another hour of trekking. Having said that, the bottom of these falls is relaxing and invigorating enough.
2. Sungai Pisang Falls, Gombak
Did you know that there’s a waterfall along Karak Highway? That’s right KL-ites! If you’re craving for a waterfall adventure but don’t want to drive too far, Sungai Pisang is another option to consider. The trail to reach the waterfall location is steep, but there are ropes along the way to aid you. Besides exploring the jungle, thrill seekers shouldn’t pass up on the opportunity to try out waterfall abseiling.
3. Chiling River Waterfall, Selangor
Located at Kuala Kubu Baru, the Chiling River Waterfall is said to be one of the nicest waterfalls around Selangor. Proper footwear is advised as hikers will need to embark on an adventurous trek across 5 rivers. It’s a tad challenging to get there but the great view is well worth the trip. The lower waterfall is a great place for a refreshing splash but watch out for flash floods during rainy season.
P/S: It’s only open to the public from Friday-Sunday.
4. Kanching Rainforest Waterfall, Rawang
Kanching Rainforest Waterfall, or Kanching Recreational Forest, is located north of Kuala Lumpur in the Rawang district. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike as people frequent here for picnics, camping, swimming, and jungle walking. Kanching Falls has 7 tiers that comprise of pools, cascades, vertical falls, and more, so just choose one you feel most comfortable at. To avoid large crowds, it’s probably best to visit Kanching Falls during weekdays.
5. Lata Kinjang Waterfall, Perak
You may have seen it while driving along the North-South Express highway. We’re referring to one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia, the well-known Lata Kinjang waterfall. Located at Chenderiang, the vertical fall stands at 200 metres high. According to legend, the gigantic Sang Kelembai used to live there. The stones around the area were apparently humans and animals, turned by the creature.
6. Madai Waterfall, Sabah
Located in the Madai Baturong Virgin Forest Reserve Nature Center, Madai Waterfall is not too far away from Kunak, a small town in the Lahad Datu district. Locals call it the twins, but after heavy rain, both falls will merge into one huge vertical fall. Due to the powerful splash and the deep hole in the centre of the waterfall pond, visitors are cautioned not to swim beyond the shallow area. Other activities such as the canopy walk and wildlife watching are also worth checking out.
7. Jerangkang Falls, Pahang
Serene, scenic, and hidden away in the massive rainforest of Pahang’s Kampung Paya Bungor is Jerangkang Falls. Although the trail to the location is well-marked, getting there might be physically challenging for the inexperience. An endless succession of waterfalls await you. There’s also the natural infinity pool that is always Instagram-worthy. For those camping at the site, make it a point to catch the stunning sunrise and watch the forest come alive.
8. Rainbow Falls, Kuantan
Under favourable weather conditions, the Tapis Waterfall, or popularly known as Rainbow Waterfall, is easily one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the country as travellers will be able to witness the water fall down vertically and dissolve into mist. The rainbow usually appears between 9:30 to 10:30am. If lady luck is in your favour, you may even catch a double rainbow when the sun hits the waterfall at a certain angle.
Sources: Waterfalls of Malaysia, My Sabah, Female Mag, Expat Go, Health Works / Featured image: Sini.com.
