Sarawak Nature, Niah Cave National Park

Niah Cave National Park

Three hundred miles up the coast from Kuching, hidden in the forests of Miri are the Niah Caves, spreading over 3,140 hectares of peat swamp, dipterocarp forests and the massive limestone outcrops within which the caves are concealed.

The caves consist of one big cave (The Great Cave) and some smaller caves. At the centre of the park is Gunung Subis.

Flora and Fauna

The limestone vegetation is predominantly represented by the Balsaminaceae and Begoniaceae species. Peat swamp vegetation and dipterocarp forests dominate the lowlands accompanied with fig plants ficus. The crown of these plants shades the tiny seedling on the forest floor and keeps it moist to ensure its survival.

The mischievous and opportunistic long-tailed macaques, ever on the look-out for food to forage, are conspicuously to be seen and heard in the forest. Birds such as the Bulbuls, Tailor birds, Crested wood partridge, Trogons and Hornbills are easily spotted because of their exotic and brightly coloured plumes. Look out for the nocturnal Barred Eagle and Bay Owl, which also inhabit the forest. The great Woolly Horseshoe Bat can be found in the caves and crevices in which they roost. Another interesting inhabitant is the Borneon Tarsier, a nocturnal primate which feeds on insects and small vertebrae animals. There are also squirrels, Flying lizards and a large population of Swiftlets.

Niah Cave National Park : Planning an Itinerary

Aside from visiting the caves the visitor can find a lot of interesting things to do and see.

'Exploring' The Caves
The caves are accessible via a 3 km pathway, part of which consists of a raised plank walk through lowland forest. The walk to the caves can therefore be an interesting activity in itself if you enjoy observing the variety of plant life and birds and insects along the path.

The Great Cave
The discovery of the oldest human remains in Southeast Asia along with other pre-historic relics in the cave, makes this Borneo's most important archeological site. The relics point to the existence of human activity in this area almost 40,000 years ago.

However, the cave is now home to the bats which deposit their droppings or guano, a rich source of fertilizer, on the cave floor and the swiftlets whose edible nests are greatly favoured for their medicinal value.

The Painted Cave
An interesting feature of this cave is the red haematite painting of human-like figures drawn on the rocks. The painting dates back at least 1,000 years. The cave itself seems to have served as an ancient grave site as evidenced by the boat-shaped coffins containing the bodies of the dead.

Forest Trails
Explore the jungle trails and get a feel of the tropical forest - see what makes it tick! There are two clearly marked trails you could follow, namely 'Jalan Bukit Kasut' and 'Jalan Madu'. So pack some snacks and drinks and go uncover the secrets of the jungle!

Iban Longhouse
The Ibans are skilled craftsmen and a visit to their longhouse nearby is bound to fascinate you. See the wide range of fine and beautifully made handicraft and ordinary household items for daily use and you will marvel at the intricate designs and clever colour combinations.

Mountain Climbing
Scale the 400 metre high limestone ridge for a bit of adventure! You might not be the first one to reach the summit, but it sure is exciting and exhilarating; and something to tell the others back home.

Collection of Birds' Nests
Usually carried out between August to December and January to March each year, this is one activity that attracts a lot of interest. Local gatherers climb up tall "ladders" to reach the birds' nests high up in the caves. The nests are valued for the medicinal properties of the bird's saliva binding the nest. Boiled with rock sugar it makes a highly potent, not to mention delicious brew!

Visit To Batu Niah Town
If the fancy takes you, stroll along the river bank and explore the local haunts in Batu Niah town. You could also rent a boat to get there but that would mean missing out on some quaint things along the way.

Niah Cave National Park : Accommodation

A variety of accommodation facilities is available in the park.
Hostels

Asrama Agathis A 10 rooms
(4 beds per room)
Asrama Agathis B 10 rooms
(4 beds per room)
Jungle Lodge 2 rooms (2 beds per room)
VIP Chalets Camping

Camp sites are available for 200-300 people.

Niah Cave National Park : Facilities

These include the plank walk to the caves and within it, public toilets and washrooms, a canteen and an information centre.

Application for permits and reservations for accommodation can be made at the National Parks booking office, Miri or Niah National Park.

How to Get There

The Park is accessible by road from Miri or Bintulu. It takes approximately 2 hours from Miri and 3 hours from Bintulu to Batu Niah. From Batu Niah, it is a short boat trip to the Park Headquarters.