Hiking is a fantastic activity because it can be easily adjusted for all fitness levels. Can’t climb a flight of stairs without feeling breathless? Take your time to walk and enjoy the scenery. Got a stamina like a pro? Challenge yourself and see how long you can complete the hike. If you have time over the weekend, take a day trip out and attempt these hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels!
1. Gunung Pulai
Gunung Pulai is known as one of the most famous hiking trails in Malaysia due to its accessibility. Located in the Kulai District of JB, it’s slightly over an hour’s drive from the checkpoint. The route is relatively short as well; it’s five km each way and will take you about four hours in total to complete the hike. Take a dip at Pulai Waterfall along the way, and soak in the flora and fauna (and occasionally cheeky monkey) while making your way up to the summit. There are also campsites and homestays surrounding Gunung Pulai should you wish to camp overnight.
Location: Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, 81000, Johor, Malaysia
Admission: Free
How to get there: Take bus BET1, 77B or 7B to Kulai Terminal. From Kulai Terminal, take a regular cab in.
2. Sungai Lembing
What else will motivate you to complete a hike, apart from a sense of accomplishment? A photo for the ‘gram. Take a killer photo at the Rainbow Waterfall, where —you guessed it— a rainbow forms at the foot of the waterfall every morning. Be prepared to get your shoes wet, as the trail starts with a river crossing. While the trail is rather easy (one hour each way), the end of the trail is a little tricky due to sharp and slippery rocks. But once you surpass that, swim and wade away in the waterfalls! Make sure you complete the hike between 9-10am as the rainbow will only appear then.
Location: Kampung Kuala Kenau, 26200 Sungai Lembing, Pahang, Malaysia
Admission: From 35RM/pax
How to get there: The fastest way to get to Sungai Lembing is to take a plane to KL and transfer bus
3. Tasik Biru Kangkar Pulai
Within JB lies a hidden majestic lake also known as Tasik Biru Kangkar Pulai, which literally translates to “blue lake”. The lake was a former iron mine, which explains its clear turquoise-sapphire hue. While it won’t take you long to get to the lake, the entire hike will take about three to four hours due to the multiple viewing points. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon a variety of terrain and rocky paths, but nothing that’s too challenging. For an unobstructed view of the lake, head to Checkpoint 3. The surrounding Lion King-like cliffs also accompany the big blue perfectly.
Location: Kangkar Pulai, Johor, Malaysia
Admission: Free
How to get there: Take a bus or car in from Woodlands checkpoint to Kangkar Pulai
4. Gunung Lambak
For a challenge, try Gunung Lambak in Kluang. The steep trail up the 510m mountain is sure to hit those legs! There are ropes set up to assist in climbing, so that’s how you know you’re up for a challenge. Many seasoned trekkers travel to Gunung Lambak to climb as their training regime, and locals scale it to keep fit too. If you’ve never experienced trekking in a forested area, give this one a shot. The entire hike will take about 4 hours.
Location: Gunung Lambak Recreational Forest, 86000 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia
Admission: Free
How to get there: 2-3 hours by car from Singapore
5. Broga Hill
Apart from picturesque views, Broga Hill, an hour away from KL, is also known for its beautiful lalang leaves. At 400m high, the trail has three peaks in total, with the third being the most challenging. You’ll be surrounded by lalang leaves almost throughout the hike as well as large stones around the hilltop. Soak in generous views of plains, rainforests, oil plantations and villages at the top. The entire hike will take about 3 hours in total.
Location: 71750 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
Admission: RM1/pax
How to get there: Travel to KL, take a train or bus from KL Sentral to Hulu Langat and a car ride to Broga Hill.
