Climbers on the limestone crags of Merapoh.
Gua Tagang ‘via ferrata’, zipline take nature tourism to the extreme
GUA Tagang in Merapoh, Pahang, now offers a new extreme experience with via ferrata and zipline activities.
Launched earlier this year, these adrenaline-pumping pursuits will challenge visitors both physically and mentally, and boost nature-based tourism attractions in Lipis district.
The via ferrata features a 130m vertical climb on a limestone wall, while the 200m zipline is said to be among the longest in Peninsular Malaysia.
Via ferrata, meaning “iron path” in Italian, is a climbing route made of iron ladders and safety cables anchored into the rock surface.
Climbers are harnessed and clipped into the safety cables during their journey.
Licensed tour operator Mohd Syukri Jali, 50, said the via ferrata at Gua Tagang was developed in compliance with international extreme sports safety standards and equipped with a guided climbing system and professional equipment.
A participant being briefed on safety during the ‘Geopark Odyssey: Heritage & Archaeo Tourism’ programme exploring the ‘via ferrata’ and zipline at Gua Tagang. — Photos: Bernama
It is a challenging trek, and he warns: “To reach the starting point, climbers must first navigate a steep and slippery 100m jungle trail.”
Mohd Syukri, who has 30 years of experience in extreme sports, was showcasing the new attractions during the “Geopark Odyssey: Heritage & Archaeo Tourism” programme organised by Tourism Malaysia, as reported by Bernama.
The route, he said, comprised three main zones – a vertical climb, horizontal traverse, and hanging section – that would test climbers’ balancing skills as well as their physical and mental endurance.
A rescue system, including lowering, Mohd Syukri said, was in place for participants who could not continue the climb.
“We assess participants’ fitness levels beforehand as the maximum route height is 50m above ground level.
“Safety is our top priority,” he added.
Meanwhile, the zipline is a thrill ride across the forest from the top of a cave system.
“The 200m zipline at Gua Tagang is among the longest in Peninsular Malaysia.
“It takes eight to 10 seconds to glide, depending on body weight.
“The maximum weight limit is 90kg,” added Mohd Syukri.
