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Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the eastern part of Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. The park covers an area of 544 square kilometers and is home to one of the most extensive cave systems in the world.
The park is known for its remarkable biodiversity, as it contains over 3,500 species of plants, 170 species of mammals, 270 species of birds, and 20,000 species of insects. In this travel guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of Gunung Mulu National Park, including its history, geography, flora and fauna, and things to do in the park.
History
The history of Gunung Mulu National Park dates back to the 1970s when a team of British explorers led by Andy Eavis discovered the Sarawak Chamber, which is the largest known cave chamber in the world.
The discovery of the Sarawak Chamber drew attention to the area and led to the establishment of the park in 1974. In 2000, the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its unique geological and biological features.
Geography
Gunung Mulu National Park is located in the state of Sarawak, which is one of the two states in Malaysia located on the island of Borneo. The park is situated near the border with Brunei and covers an area of 544 square kilometers. The park is characterized by a rugged terrain, with limestone hills and steep cliffs dominating the landscape. The park is home to the Gunung Mulu mountain, which is the second-highest mountain in Sarawak, with a height of 2,377 meters.
Flora and Fauna
Gunung Mulu National Park is known for its remarkable biodiversity. The park is home to over 3,500 species of plants, including orchids, ferns, and pitcher plants. The park is also home to a wide variety of mammals, including gibbons, langurs, macaques, deer, and wild boar. The park is also home to 270 species of birds, including hornbills, kingfishers, and flycatchers. In addition, the park is home to over 20,000 species of insects, including beetles, butterflies, and moths.
Things to Do
Cave Exploration – Gunung Mulu National Park is known for its extensive cave systems, which are some of the most impressive in the world. The park offers several guided tours of the caves, including the Deer Cave, Langs Cave, and Clearwater Cave.
Trekking – The park offers several trekking routes, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. One of the most popular treks is the Pinnacles Trek, which takes you to the top of the Gunung Mulu mountain and offers stunning views of the park.
Canopy Walk – The Canopy Walk is a 480-meter-long suspension bridge that is suspended 20 meters above the ground. The walk offers stunning views of the park’s canopy and is a popular activity among visitors.
River Cruise – The Melinau River runs through the park and offers a unique way to explore the park’s flora and fauna. The river cruise takes you through the park’s rainforest and offers the chance to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.
Night Safari – The park offers a guided night safari, which takes you on a tour of the park’s rainforest at night. The safari offers the chance to spot nocturnal animals such as owls, bats, and civets.
Accommodation
Gunung Mulu National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from basic guesthouses to luxury resorts. The park’s accommodation options include the following:
Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa – This is a luxury resort located near the park’s entrance. The resort offers modern amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.
Mulu National Park HQ Guesthouse – This is a budget-friendly guesthouse located within the park. The guesthouse offers basic amenities, including shared bathrooms and simple rooms.
Benarat Lodge – This is a mid-range option located near the park’s entrance. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a small swimming pool.
Royal Mulu Resort – This is another luxury resort located near the park’s entrance. The resort offers modern amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.
Campsites – The park also offers several campsites, which are a great option for budget-conscious travelers. The campsites offer basic amenities, including shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen.
Transportation
To reach Gunung Mulu National Park, visitors must first fly to Mulu Airport, which is located within the park. The airport is served by several airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and MASwings. From the airport, visitors can take a short taxi ride to the park’s entrance. The park also offers shuttle buses that run between the airport and the park’s entrance.
Gunung Mulu National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park’s extensive cave systems, remarkable biodiversity, and stunning landscape make it a truly unique destination.
Visitors can explore the park’s caves, go trekking, take a river cruise, and even spot nocturnal animals on a night safari. With a variety of accommodation options and easy access from Mulu Airport, Gunung Mulu National Park is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list
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