Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. The park is known for its stunning limestone karst formations, vast cave systems, and diverse rainforest ecosystem. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Borneo.
Visitors to Mulu National Park can explore various activities, from gentle walks along boardwalks to challenging treks through the rainforest. One of the park’s main attractions is its show caves, including Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, and Lang Cave. These caves allow visitors to see stunning rock formations, underground rivers, and unique wildlife. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the park offers caving expeditions, trekking to the summit of Mount Mulu, and exploring the Pinnacles, a series of jagged limestone peaks.
Whether you’re interested in exploring caves, trekking through the rainforest, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Borneo, Mulu National Park has something for everyone. With its unique ecosystem and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that the park is considered one of the top destinations in Malaysia.
Getting to Mulu National Park
Visiting Mulu National Park is an adventure that requires some planning, especially when getting there. The park is located in the Sarawak region of Borneo and is only accessible by air or river. This section will discuss the different ways to get to Mulu National Park.
By Air
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Mulu National Park is by air. The park has its own airport, the Mulu Airport, which MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, service. MASwings operates daily flights from Miri, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu to Mulu using 72-seater ATR72 aircraft. The flight from Miri takes approximately 30 minutes, while the flight from Kuching takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
By Land
If you prefer to travel by land, you can take a bus or taxi from Miri to Marudi, about 2 hours away. From Marudi, you can take a longboat ride down the Tutoh River to Long Terawan, the last village accessible by road. From Long Terawan, you can take another longboat ride down the Melinau River to the park headquarters, which takes about 2-3 hours.
By River
Another way to get to Mulu National Park is by river. You can take a longboat ride from Miri down the Baram River to Marudi, which takes about 5-6 hours. From Marudi, you can take a longboat ride down the Tutoh River to Long Terawan and down the Melinau River to the park headquarters. The journey by river takes longer than by air or land, but it offers a unique and scenic experience.
Getting to Mulu National Park requires some planning, but it is worthwhile. Whether you travel by air, land, or river, you will surely have an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful and pristine rainforests in the world.
Activities in Mulu National Park
Mulu National Park offers a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular activities in the park:
Cave Exploration
Mulu National Park is known for its impressive limestone caves. Visitors can explore the caves with a guide, who will provide information about the cave’s history and geology. Some popular show caves in the park include the Deer Cave, Lang Cave, Clearwater Cave, and Cave of the Winds. The caves are home to various wildlife, including bats, swiftlets, and insects.
Jungle Trekking
Mulu National Park has a network of trails that lead through the rainforest. Visitors can choose from a range of treks that vary in length and difficulty. The treks offer an opportunity to observe the park’s flora and fauna up close. Some of the most popular treks include the Pinnacles, Summit, and Headhunters’ Trail.
Canopy Walk
The Canopy Walk is a popular attraction in Mulu National Park. The walkway is suspended 20 meters above the ground, giving visitors a unique rainforest perspective. The walkway is 480 meters long and takes about 45 minutes to complete. Visitors can observe the park’s wildlife from the walkway, including birds, primates, and insects.
River Cruising
Visitors can take a river cruise along the Melinau River. The cruise lets one observe the park’s wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and birds. The cruise also provides a unique perspective of the park’s limestone cliffs and rainforest.
Night Safari
Mulu National Park offers a night safari for visitors who want to observe the park’s nocturnal wildlife. Visitors can observe the park’s wildlife from a boat as it travels along the river. The night safari provides an opportunity to see animals such as crocodiles, bats, and owls in their natural habitat.
Mulu National Park offers a range of activities for visitors who want to experience the park’s natural beauty. Visitors can choose from various activities, including cave exploration, jungle trekking, canopy walks, river cruising, and night safaris.
Accommodations in Mulu National Park
Finding the right accommodations is important when planning a trip to Mulu National Park. Luckily, various options are available to suit different budgets and preferences.
Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa
The Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa is a great option for those looking for a luxurious stay. Located just a short distance from the park, the resort offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including a fitness center, restaurant, and bar. Prices for rooms at the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa range from 150 to 300 per night.
Benarat Lodge
For a more affordable option, Benarat Lodge is a great choice. Located within walking distance of the park, the lodge offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms. Prices for rooms at Benarat Lodge start at $30 per night.
Campgrounds
For those who prefer camping, several campgrounds are available in the park. These include the Camp 5 and Camp 1 campgrounds, which offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers. Guests can bring their own tents or rent them from the park. Prices for campsites start at $5 per person per night.
Overall, there are several great options for accommodations in Mulu National Park. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a more budget-friendly option, there is something for everyone.
Dining Options in Mulu National Park
Mulu National Park offers a variety of dining options for visitors to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there’s something for everyone. The two main dining options are The Pavilion Restaurant and the Cafeteria.
M Cafe
MCafe is located at the park’s headquarters and offers a range of local and international dishes. The restaurant has a spacious dining area and a beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the rainforest. The menu features a variety of dishes including Malaysian favorites such as nasi lemak, laksa, and satay, as well as western options like burgers and sandwiches. Vegetarian options are also available.
Good Luck Cafe and Lounge
Good Luck Cafe is located near the park’s headquarters and offers a more casual dining experience. The cafeteria serves various local dishes such as fried rice, noodles, and curries, as well as western options like sandwiches and burgers. Vegetarian options are also available.
The cafeteria is a great place to grab a quick bite before heading out on a hike or to refuel after a morning of exploring the park. Prices are affordable, and the cafeteria is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Overall, Mulu National Park offers a range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or a quick bite, there’s something for everyone.
