Adventurous hiking trails in Malaysia
Without a doubt, Malaysia is a country worth visiting for its rich culture and heritage. Additionally, the country boasts an abundance of natural beauty most evident during hikes and sightseeing.
While Mount Kinabalu is the most well-known hiking destination in Malaysia, there are plenty more trails to discover, especially for those seeking a challenging hike that can test their limits.
If you’re a hiking enthusiast, here are 11 adventurous hiking trails in Malaysia that you can cross off your bucket list.
Table of Contents
1. Mount Murud
Highest mountain in Sarawak
Image adapted from: Cyril’s Canvas
Mount Murud can be found in Sarawak, Borneo, within the Limbang Division. Standing at 7,946 ft, the sandstone mountain is the highest mountain in Sarawak.
Image adapted from: Cyril’s Canvas, Cyril’s Canvas
Also known as the ‘Holy Mountain’, Mount Murud is home to a Church Camp, where up to 1,500 devotee hikers on pilgrimage can be accommodated.
Image adapted from: Cyril’s Canvas
The mountain offers a serene hiking experience with views of Sarawak’s unique mountainous region.
Due to its challenging nature and remote location, hiking here is best suited for more experienced hikers. The entire hike takes approximately three to four days to complete.
Perupun Arur Ritan megalith
Image credit: Ahmad Fuad Bin Morad via Flickr
Recommended trail: If you’re heading to the Church Camp, the Ba’Kelalan Trail is the best option to take.
Alternative trails: Among the trails, the Bario Trail is more secluded and deemed more challenging than the standard Ba’Kelalan Trail. Another way to the summit is through the Pa Lungan Trail, where you’ll encounter the megalith called Perupun Arur Ritan.
2. Mount Datuk
A stunning view of the Straits of Malacca
Image credit: Izudin101 via Wikimedia Commons
While steep, the hike at Mount Datuk in Negeri Sembilan takes only a total of five hours to reach the summit and return to the base.
Enjoy a view of the Straits of Malacca.
Screenshot from: Airdry Discovery via YouTube
Aside from the short hike, the summit offers an amazing view of the Straits of Malacca. It’s also made up of large granite boulders, perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos.
If you’re a local of Negeri Sembilan, then you’d be interested to know that Mount Datuk is believed to be where Datuk Perpatih Nan Sebatang, a Minangkabau noble from Sumatra, Indonesia, was inaugurated.
Given its shorter hiking duration, the mountain is suitable for intermediate hikers.
Recommended trail: The Rembau Trail is the recommended starting point for all hikers.
Alternative trails: Alternatively, the Gua Batu Maloi Trail is recommended for those who prefer going through a granite cave with great landscape views.
3. Mount Mulu
Limestone formations and cave systems
Image credit: Mulu World Heritage Area
While you’re in Sarawak, check out Mount Mulu, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gunung Mulu National Park.
The Pinnacles of Gunung Mulu are a main attraction that hikers visit for their fascinating limestone formations.
Image adapted from: Beautiful World, Beautiful World
Additionally, you’re welcome to explore the cave systems, such as the Deer Cave, Sarawak Chamber, and Clearwater Cave System, around the site.
Take note that the cave systems have some of the largest cave passages in the world. Visitors are only allowed to explore them with a licensed guide.
This expedition is suited for experienced hikers as it requires a mix of hiking, climbing, and mountaineering. Depending on the pace, the hike may range from three to six days.
Recommended trail: The Pinnacles Trail is the best route to take to witness the limestone spikes up close.
Alternative trails: The Gunung Mulu Summit Trail is ideal for those seeking a more challenging hike, while the Moonmilk Cave Trail is a less-travelled route that’ll take you through the Moonmilk Cave.
4. Mount Tahan
Highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia
Image credit: @wongzurri via Instagram
In Pahang, you can head to the Taman Negara National Park to hike Mount Tahan, the highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia. Standing at 7,175 ft, it’s part of the G7 mountains, the highest peaks in the country.
If you’re looking to push your limits, this is the mountain to hike, as it’s considered one of the most challenging treks in Malaysia.
Image credit: MeowtainPeople
Recognised for its dense rainforests and uneven terrain, this hiking trail is geared towards experienced hikers. The hike may take up to four days.
Recommended trail: The Kuala Tahan Trail is the most common trail that many hikers opt for.
Alternative trails: The Merapoh Trail is another popular choice. Although, while this trail takes less time, it has steeper terrain. For those who admire natural beauty, consider going for the Sungei Relau Trail, which takes you through a dense jungle.
5. Mount Korbu
Scenic Kem Balak Waterfall
Image credit: Nova Planet
Mount Korbu is located in Perak, within the Titiwangsa Range. Measuring 7,162 ft, it’s known as the second highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia and the highest peak in Perak.
This G7 mountain is regarded as a challenging trek, even for experienced hikers. Its terrain features steep ascents and dense forests. Nonetheless, the spectacular views of the landscape and lush vegetation make up for the arduous hike.
Image credit: @joycetan9634 via Instagram
What’s more, you can stop by the Kem Balak Waterfall to enjoy the scenic view, go for a quick dip, or snap a few photos.
Take note that all hikers need a permit to hike the mountain.
Recommended trail: The Ulu Kinta Trail is the standard hiking trail for most hikers.
Alternative trails: Another option is hiking through the Blue Valley Dam, a less frequented route that also leads to the nearby Mount Gayong.
6. Mount Yong Yap
Mossy forest between Perak and Kelantan
Image credit: Nova Planet
In the same location as Mount Korbu is Mount Yong Yap, another G7 mountain, standing at 7,113 ft. It’s a favourite hiking spot among seasoned hikers.
Additionally, this mountain poses a challenge even for experienced hikers, with fallen tree trunks, sharp-edged bamboos, and trees covered with thorns along the way. So if you’re planning to hike Mount Yong Yap, make sure to take safety precautions and wear protective gear.
Image credit: afifplc
However, if you’re able to get past these , hikers can traverse a mossy forest and admire its natural beauty up close. What’s more, the forest boasts diverse species of flora and fauna, making it a great experience for nature lovers.
Image credit: Pulitzer Center
Aside from that, Mount Yong Yap is considered sacred to the Orang Asli. It’s believed that the mountain is home to their ancestors’ spirits and the site where they perform rituals and ceremonies to honour the spirits and ask for their blessings.
Hikers are advised to avoid loud noises, littering, and other disrespectful acts while on the hike.
Recommended trail: The Kuala Raja Trail is the most popular trail among hikers.
Alternative trails: If you’re up for a challenging trail, pick the Kuala Mu Trail. The Pos Renggil Trail is the least travelled among the three.
7. Mount Chamah
Sarsi trees that smells like root beer
Image credit: @thrills_withwin via Instagram
The G7 Mount Chamah is located within the Titiwangsa Range in Kelantan, close to Mount Ulu Sepat, another G7 mountain.
As one of the less-travelled peaks in the country, Mount Chamah offers a pristine environment with an undisturbed rainforest, great for those seeking a solitary trek.
Image adapted from: mcHiker, michael_nayagam via Wikiloc
During your hike, a fun thing you can do is find Sarsi trees and give them a sniff – they smell just like Root Beer. Although, take note that hacking down the trees to bring home pieces of bark is strictly prohibited.
This trail is suited for experienced hikers, with five to six days needed if you include hiking Mount Ulu Sepat.
Recommended trail: The Pos Simpor Trail is the main and most common trail used among hikers.
Alternative trails: For a more challenging trek, take on the Gua Musang Trail. The Lake Temenggor Trail is also a great option if you want to cross the lake with a stunning view of Mount Ulu Sepat.
8. Mount Ulu Sepat
Seventh highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia
Image credit: Nova Planet
On the Perak – Kelantan border of the Titiwangsa Range, Mount Ulu Sepat is the G7 mountain that’s considered the “easiest” trek among hikers. It stands as a neighbouring peak to Mount Chamah.
Despite being relatively remote and within the less accessible part of the Titiwangsa Range, this location offers a unique experience. Depending on the trail, hikers might find rare species of orchids, exotic birds, and large forms of wildlife such as tapirs and Malayan tigers.
Image credit: themttrekker
Mount Ulu Sepat is considered a “virgin forest”, so it can be challenging even for experienced hikers.
According to this review, hikers are assigned Orang Asli guides not only to lead you to the summit, but to also hack through thick vegetation with a parang, a type of knife used in Malaysia, to clear a path for hikers.
Image credit: themttrekker
Along the way, you’ll go through muddy and slippery slopes, eroding logging trails, and a waist-deep river that you’ll need to cross.
Additionally, keep in mind that the Orang Asli guides will be ahead of you, so it’s recommended to keep calm and follow their trail if you lose sight of them.
While that may be the case, there’s no need to worry. The guides will be with you from the ascent to the descent of the mountain.
Overall, trekking through an isolated mountain where new pathways need to be made is certainly an experience you won’t get with other mountains.
Recommended trail: Like Mount Chamah, the Pos Simpor Trail is a main starting point.
Alternative trails: Like Mount Chamah, the Gua Musang and Lake Temenggor Trails are other options to consider. For those seeking a more secluded path, the Hutan Belum Trail would be best.
9. Mount Nuang
Highest peak in Selangor
Image credit: @travelphotosbyleigh via Instagram
Mount Nuang is located on the border between Selangor and Pahang. Being the highest peak in Selangor, it’s another popular trekking destination among seasoned hikers.
According to some, this mountain is great for building strength, stamina, and endurance, serving as preparation for even more challenging hikes.
With a hike that covers 21 km, Mount Nuang is suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers. Make sure to acquire a permit before climbing.
Recommended trail: The Janda Baik Trail in Pahang is the most common route, taking you through the beautiful scenery of landscapes and fruit farms.
Alternative trails: The Hulu Langat Trail in Selangor is another popular option. The Pangsun Trail, on the other hand, provides a tougher experience compared to the other two. Despite encountering five river crossings, you’ll get to see picturesque waterfalls along the way.
10. Mount Irau
Also known as “Mossy Forest”
Image credit: Klim Levene via Flickr
Located in Pahang within Cameron Highlands, Mount Irau is renowned for its “mossy forest”, where you’ll discover moss-covered trees thriving in the cool highland weather.
Being a moderate trek, the hike is suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers. Although there are steep inclines, muddy grounds, and slippery roots, it’s less physically taxing than most hiking trails.
Due to the area’s naturally cool weather, it’s best to wear layers while on this hike.
Recommended trail: The Mossy Forest Trail is the most commonly used trail for hikers and also the most beautiful. Most hikers engage in birdwatching and nature and wildlife photography.
Alternative trails: If you prefer taking your time to reach the summit, then you might like going for the Gunung Brinchang Trail.
11. Mount Santubong
Scenic views of the coastline
Image credit: Buntal Santubong Wildlife Cruise via New Straits Times
Mount Santubong is located in Sarawak, near Kuching. This site offers scenic views of the South China Sea, Santubong River, and the coastline.
Image adapted from: Mathew Browne via Flickr, pulpfixtion
Even more so, the mountain is surrounded by the ruins of ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples, which you can visit on educational tours to know more about the folklore and legends surrounding them.
Image adapted from: I AM THE BORNEO EXPLORER 婆罗洲探险者
In addition to the temples, the Buntal Fishing Village is another attraction that hikers can visit. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes and look for puffer fish frequently found at the village.
With varying routes and attractions, the hike is suitable for intermediate to experienced hikers.
Recommended trail: The Santubong National Park Trail is the most common and popular route to the summit.
Alternative trails: The Bukit Puteri Trail is the lesser-known, alternative trail for those who want to go off-trail.
Advanced hiking trails in Malaysia for those who seek an adventure
Malaysia’s awe-inspiring landscapes and varying trekking opportunities make the country a prime destination for hikers. These adventurous hiking trails provide a diversity of hiking experiences that’ll put your skills to the test.
Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb or a scenic hike, there’s something for every adventurer visiting the country.
For more recommendations like this, check out the best hiking trails in KL, mountain hiking trails in Sabah, and scenic hiking trails in Malaysia.
Cover image adapted from: Izudin101 via Wikimedia Commons, Klim Levene via Flickr, Mulu World Heritage Area, Airdry Discovery via YouTube