Sarawak Nature, Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park

The majestic Gunung Mulu, rising over a mass of sandstone and shale, dominates the Gunung Mulu National Park in the Miri and Limbang Division. The park covers 52,866 hectares of the shale and sandstone, flanked by limestone outcrops with virgin tropical forests at the lower slopes, seeing montane vegetation at the upper region.

It was gazetted as a National Park in 1974. The mix of natural habitats amidst such wild and rugged scenery makes it one of Sarawak's most popular destinations. Among its attractions are the spectacular pinnacle rock formations tucked in the valley of Gunung Api and its cave complexity.

Despite its ruggedness, the park is easily accessible and is accompanied with a range of activities.

Gunung Mulu National Park : Flora and Fauna

This area was miraculously unaffected by the last Ice Age, which continues to form the evolution of its flora and fauna without any interruptions. This accounts for the extraordinary diversity of plant and wildlife that is found in its forests. There are over 1,500 species of flowering plants, 170 species of orchids and 10 species of pitcher plants.

The lush vegetation of the lower slope consists of peat swamp, heath and mixed diptercocarp forests. An interesting feature about the peat swamp forest is the massive roots of the Strangling fig tree, a name derived from the fact that it had in fact "strangled" the original host tree to death to reach the top! In the upper regions, the vegetation is characterised by limestone and moss vegetation.

There are 67 types of mammals roaming the forests with 262 bird species. The latest addition to this group is the newly discovered Borneon frog with the beautiful name - "Rana ingeri"! Also to be seen swinging nonchalantly from the branches are the small tree dwelling Borneon gibbons, 281 varieties of butterfly and hundreds of insects and fungi.

Gunung Mulu National Park : Planning an Itinerary

Plan for a minimum of 2-4 days stay so that you'll be able to fully appreciate the park.

Day Trips to Show Caves
These caves have been illuminated to focus on certain features within its dim interior. Special paths enable visitors to move around easily and also protect the delicate geological structures from getting damage accidentally. It is accessible from the Park Headquarters, which requires a 3 km walk through the jungle on specially constructed plank walk.

Lang's Cave
Named after the man who first introduced speleologists to the cave in 1978, it features a variety of intricately sculptured stalactites and stalagmites, delicate and transparent helicoids and spectacular rock curtains. Footprints embedded in the rocks at the entrance of the cave indicate that it was once inhabited by wild boars.

Deer Cave
As its name suggests, this cave was a shelter for deer. It also served as a human burial ground. However, it has now been taken over by millions of bats that are seen flying out in formation in search of food when night time approaches. Other inhabitants include swiftlets circling the entrance, earwigs, centipedes and cicadas. Its 160-metre wide mouth resembles a colossal stone jaw, making it popular as the largest cave entrance. Another unique feature is the Adam & Eve's shower, a cascade of water falling 120 metres from the cave roof.

Wind Cave
Using the Melinau River, a refreshing breeze greets you as you approach the cave which explains the origin of its name. It contains magnificent stalactites and stalagmites in all shapes and sizes. But the exciting bit about the cave is that it is said to be haunted!

Clearwater Cave
Measuring over 100 km, this cave is acknowledged as the longest cave in Southeast Asia and the 7th longest in the world. Venture inside into Lady's Cave with the stalactite resembling the Virgin Mary. Walk 50 steps down to the underground rivers and observe labyrinth caverns and passages that were formed millions of years ago. The crystal clear water is said to possess mysterious powers that restore youth!

Adventure Caving
For something more challenging, don protective helmets and miners' lamps and follow a trail down into the depths of Clearwater and Wind caves, under Gunung Api. Crawl with the centipedes and earwigs and be prepared to come face to face with other inhabitants in the cave floor.

The Pinnacles of Gunung Api
Take up the challenge to view the pinnacles, located in a shallow valley 1,200 metres above sea level. The adventure begins with an exciting 2-hour boat trip over rapids. On days when the water level gets low, be prepared to shove the boats over the rock-strewn rapids. A 3-4 hour trek through virgin forests brings you to a park hut on the bank of the Melinau river where you can rest for the night. The next morning, begin with a 4-hour climb and reach the viewing point that overlooks the pinnacles. The smooth razor-edged pinnacles measure 20 metres wide at the base and 45 metres in height. Separated by deep fissures and low bushy mountain forest, they present a spectacular sight when viewed from above.

On The Trail of Headhunters
The trail once taken by the legendary warriors on their head-hunting spree goes through the lowland forests and down the mighty flowing rivers. This is recommended for those with an unquenchable thirst for adventure and excitement. Follow the head-hunters trail and live out your fantasies in the rugged terrain of Sarawak wilderness.

The Mulu Challenge
If that is still not enough, there's the challenge of doing the Mulu summit. Take on the mighty mountain and scale its rough sandstone and shale heights. It may be lonely at the top but the view is fantastic!

Gunung Mulu National Park : Accommodation

Accommodation facilities at the park include chalets, a hostel and a resthouse.

* VIP Chalet
* Chalets - 6 units of chalet and 2 rooms / unit
* VIP room
* Hostel
* Rest House - 5 beds per room

Gunung Mulu National Park : Other Facilities

There are mountain huts, public toilets and washrooms, a canteen, an information centre and video shows.

Application for permits and reservations for accommodation can be made at the National Parks and Wildlife Office, Miri.

Gunung Mulu National Park : How To Get There

Mulu is accessible by air from either Miri, Limbang or Marudi.

It is also accessible by river. However, visitors wishing to make the journey by river are advised to liaise with a tour agency as there is no regular boat service to Mulu.