Sarawak Nature, Similajau National Park

Similajau National Park

Similajau National Park is situated in the Bintulu Division and encompasses an area of approximately 7,067 hectares. It was gazetted in 1978 with the primary aim of conserving the flora, fauna and unique geological characteristics of the coastal area.

The natural attractions of the area include fast-flowing streams with rapids set amidst a cool jungle setting. The clear waters of these streams are stained by the tannin acid of the peat swamp, lending it an attractive ruby-red tinge. The park is covered with a mix of vegetation ranging from those commonly found on the littoral fringes to heath and mixed dipterocarp forest. Such diverse habitats naturally support an equally diverse wildlife.

Similajau National Park : Flora and Fauna

There is a great variety of pitcher plants with tiny pitchers measuring merely 1 cm to 20 cm. Tiny and colourful orchids are found rooted to trees and the rocks around the headlands. Other littoral fringe types include the Pokok Ara Ficus, the Pinang Lakka, Cyrtospachys lakka, and the Kayu Maki Cina Podocarpus. The Rhu laut and Bintangor laut vie for attention with the ketapang on the beach, while the mangroves are covered in Bakau, Berus and Nipah palm. The forest also spots Rhu Ronang and Selunsur while Meranti, Keruing and Kapur dominate the mixed dipterocarp forest.

There are three types of primates - gibbons, banded langurs and long tailed macaques. The park also houses shrews, mouse deer, wild boar, civets, barking deer and squirrels. A chance encounter with a porcupine may cause its prickly spine to bristle in self defence. There are also 185 bird species, notably 7 species of hornbills. Migratory birds stopping by include the Storm's Stork.

Saltwater crocodiles, dolphins, porpoises and green sea turtles can also be found.

Similajau National Park : Planning an Itinerary

Day trips may be hectic and visitors are advised to plan for a few days stay in order to enjoy the natural attractions at the park.

Cool jungle Streams and Pools
Kolam Sebubong in the upper reaches of Sungai Sebubong offers the perfect place to unwind. Its dark red waters reflect the vegetation of the river bank. A boat will take visitors from the park headquarters at Kuala Likau to the mouth of the Sungai Sebubong. After traveling 1 km up river, visitors would need to trek through a series of white water before reaching Kolam Sebubong.

Selunsur Rapids
The rapids are located in the upper side of Sungai Kebalak. A 1 1/2 hour trek from the mouth of the river through beach, kerangas and mixed dipterocarp forest brings you to the frothy white rapids for a welcome dip. Keep your senses alert along the way and see if you can identify the beautiful bird calls.

Beaches and Offshore Attractions
There are numerous white sandy beaches bordered by rocky headlands, namely Golden Beach and Turtle Beach. Crystal clear streams cascade down small waterfalls to the sandy beach.

500 metres offshore from the park headquarters is Batu Mandi, a rocky island that is partially exposed during low tide. This is a popular spot for trying your luck at reeling in a catch for lunch!

Similajau National Park : Accommodation

* Chalets 5 two-roomed units
(4 beds per room)
* Hostel 2 four-roomed units
(4 beds per room)
* Campsite 250 campers Facilities

It has an information centre that displays and exhibits the parks history, flora and fauna; a canteen and daily basic necessities for day trippers.

Application for permits and reservations for accommodation can be made at the National Parks booking office in Bintulu.

Similajau National Park : How to Get There

The park lies about 20 km north-east of Bintulu. It is accessible by boat from Bintulu to the park headquarters at Kuala Likau.

The journey takes about 1 hour. A road to the park is presently under construction.