70-year-old Malaysian visits Taman Negara for the first time, pre-pandemic

The writer (second from right, back row) and his family members enjoyed their trip to Taman Negara.

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In May 2019, my nine siblings and I went on an enjoyable and memorable nature trip to Taman Negara in Pahang, the country’s largest national park and easily one of the best natural “jewels” our country has to offer.

I’ve heard so much about this place but never got the opportunity to visit. The best part about this destination is that you don’t need to travel overseas to experience it – Taman Negara is about three-and-a-half hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Good and reasonable accommodation is available nearby, as well as within the park itself.

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There is so much to do at Taman Negara. If you want to enjoy a nice boat ride along Sungai Tembeling under the canopy of huge trees, take a trip to Lata Berkoh.

We did just that, and I’ve never had such a beautiful nature ride before.

Consider spending a weekend at Taman Negara once restrictions are lifted.

You could also swim in the freshest of water flowing from the top of Gunung Tahan.

For hikers, one of the popular trails there is Bukit Teresek (344m). Along the trail, enjoy the magnificent rainforest, its beautiful flora and fauna.

For those who can’t get enough of the wonderful park, try climbing Gunung Tahan. At 2,187m, it is the highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia.

One will be amazed by the variety of flora and fauna (water monitor lizard, river otter, kelah fish, to name a few) and nocturnal insects when you take a guided tour in the jungle at night.

Bird-watching enthusiasts will have a field day here, too, as many species can be found here.

Apart from that, you could also visit the orang asli villages and get a glimpse of their simple yet challenging lifestyle.

As a 70-year-old man, I had the time of my life immersing myself in nature in Taman and enjoying every moment of it.

I urge Malaysians to visit Taman Negara at least once in their lifetime and, if possible, bring along the kids or some friends.

At the same time, we can also play our part in helping to boost domestic tourism by raising the awareness of Malaysians, especially nature lovers, hikers and jungle trekkers on what this wonderful park has to offer.As soon as interstate travel restrictions are lifted (and more outdoor and tourism activities are allowed), make sure that this trip to Taman Negara is one of the first things on your to-do list.

After being “caged” for months, this outdoor trip will certainly rejuvenate and reinvigorate you.

I assure you that this “back to nature” trip will be worth the time, effort and money spent.

The views expressed are entirely the reader’s own.