Taman Negara National Park
Taman Negara National Park is well known for its tropical rainforest, wildlife, and having the longest rope walkway in Malaysia
Taman Negara is the world’s oldest deciduous rainforest, approximated to be more than 130 million years old and home to Gunung Tahan, the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia. It is a treat for nature lovers as there are many rare flora and fauna that can be found here.
Location
Taman Negara is sandwiched between the states of Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu.
Opening Days and Hours
Although you can stay inside the park for days, the ticket counter is only open from 09:00 to 17:30 daily.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Park entry costs only RM 1 (USD 0.24), while a camera permit costs RM 5 (USD 1.22). You can also obtain a fishing license for RM 10 (USD 2.43) per person. Bookings can be made at the park headquarters.
How to Get There
You can get to the park by bus from the bus station at Pekeliling, Kuala Lumpur to Jerantut, then using the local bus, Pahang Lin Siong or Bas Latif to Taman Negara. Taxis are also available from Kuala Lumpur but it can be quite costly. You can also choose to ride the train (KTM) to Jerantut and take the connecting services to Taman Negara. Alternatively, you can drive from Kuala Lumpur using the East Coast Expressway. The journey takes about 3.5 hours from the nation’s capital city. Exit at Termeloh and head towards Jerantut. There are also boat services from from Kuala Tembeling Jetty to Kuala Tahan Jetty at Taman Negara which takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
Suggested For
Taman Negara is the perfect destination for nature lovers. It is great for couples and a small group of friends but not the most suitable for seniors and young kids, as the hikes do require a certain level of fitness.
Time to Spend
Spend at least a full day to see all kinds of wild flora and fauna at the park.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
A number of activities are available, such as jungle trekking, fishing, wildlife watching, and boat rides.
Food
There are floating restaurants at the riverside of Kuala Tahan, including the Family Restaurant, Wan Cafe, and LBK which serve local food such as toasted bread with kaya (coconut jam), fried rice, drinks, sandwiches, and soup.
Stay
Taman Negara has many accommodation options from budget to mid-range homestays and chalets for visitors.
Good to Know
It is easy to get around without any guide and you can explore the forest on your own. However, if you go deep into the jungle, especially by the Keniam, Tenol, or Tahan Mountain trails, it is recommended that you go with a guide to avoid getting lost.