Sarawak Nature, Batang Ai Hills National Park

Batang Ai Hills National Park

In the Sri Aman Division, covering some 24,040 hectares is the Batang Ai National Park. Gazetted in 1991, it shelters many protected animals.

It also serves as a water catchment area for a huge artificial lake, created by the construction of the Batang Ai Hydro-electric dam.

The lake extends up to the Engkari and Ai Valleys, where scenery complements an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.

Batang Ai Hills National Park : Flora and Fauna

The terrain is rich with mixed dipterocarp forest which is home to the Orang Utan.

High on the endangered list, this primate is the largest of its kind and can grow to 1.5 metres tall and weigh 200 kg! It makes a nest in the trees to sleep in at night.

The park also shelters other protected species such as hornbills and gibbons.

Batang Ai Hills National Park : Planning an Itinerary

A few days stay is recommended for those who want to take in the tranquil surroundings and acquaint themselves with the local culture. Imagine cruising up fast flowing rivers with the trees dropping their leaves over the water's edge on either side. During dry weather, when the water level gets low during the day, visitors get to aid in pushing the boat upstream.

There are four marked jungle trails within the park for those yearning for a bit of adventure. In addition to the usual treks, these trails also go through secondary forests and areas of agriculture. And to satisfy the Indiana Jones in you, one trail actually passes through ancient burial grounds!

Drop by the Iban longhouse and learn a bit about their traditional lifestyle. The Ibans are noted for their detailed and fashionable handicraft such as the woven pua kumbu, the selabit - rattan backpacks woven into a variety of fascinating designs and rattan mats and gourds for collecting water.

Boating
The local Community Cooperative provides boating services for trips to and within the park.

Visitor are encouraged to utilise the Cooperative services as the funds from this source are used for on-going development purposes.

Batang Ai Hills National Park : Accommodation

There are no accommodation facilities within the park but several longhouses outside the park area offer basic accommodation and the chance to experience the local lifestyle.

A longhouse resort, much further away, provides luxurious accommodation within the longhouse-like atmosphere.

Batang Ai Hills National Park : How to Get There

The park is located about 250 km from Kuching. The journey by road from Kuching to Batang Ai dam takes about 6 hours. The boat trip from the dam to the park takes another 2 hours.