Endau Rompin

Endau Rompin, located north of Johor and south of Pahang, is the second National Park proclaimed by the Government of Malaysia. It covers an area of approximately 50,000 hectares of rich flora and fauna, encompassing the watershed of the rivers Endau and Rompin, from which it derived its name. The park is home to many species of birds, mammals, frogs, insects and many other wild animals, as well as varieties of orchids, herbs, medicinal plants and trees. A scientific expedition undertaken by the Malaysian Nature Society in 1985 uncovered some new and rare plant and animal species. One of the most spectacular discoveries was the fan palm (Livistona endauensis), endemic to the Ulu Endau area. This centuries-old rainforest is also home to the largest surviving population of Sumatran Rhinos still left in Peninsular Malaysia. Primates, including the leaf monkey, the long-tail macaque and the white-handed gibbon are a common sight. Other wild animals inhabiting the area include tigers, leopards, elephants, and various types of deer and tapirs. There are also numerous rapids and falls awaiting adventure lovers and river trekkers here. In 1892, miner and surveyor H.W.Lake and Lieutenant H.J.Kelsall entered the Endau-Rompin area to conduct scientific research and documentation. They recorded and collected inexhaustible specimens from the area and noted a healthy number of large animals such as elephants, the Sumatran rhinoceros and deer traversing the area. In 1933,with the help of Lake and Kelsall's documentation of the area and its fauna and flora, Endau-Kluang area was declared a forest reserve. Later in 1972, the reserve was further expanded to include an area within the Lesong Forest Reserve in Pahang. Getting There By car From Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru by the North South highway, on reaching Kluang detour to the Kahang town. There, a four wheel drive vehicle will take you for a 56km jungle track to Kampung Peta, the visitors centre and the point of entry to the National Parks or 3 hours journey by boat from Felda Nitar II. By bus Kluang is one of Johor's main transportation junction. Buses are frequent from JB to Kluang. From here, grab a taxi to Kahang. Make prior arrangements with the tourism officer at endau rompin national park on transportation from Kahang into the park. By rail From Kuala Lumpur Sentral Train Station, there are daily train stops at Kluang. From here, grab a taxi to Kahang. Make prior arrangements with the tourism officer at endau rompin national park on transportation from Kahang into the park. Activity Jungle Trekking - There are some 26km of jungle trails within the park, the most well trodden path being the grueling 16km trail from the base camp at Kuala Jasin to Batu Hampar and Buaya Sangkut with numerous crossings of fast flowing rivers. At Buaya Sangkut, a waterfall cascading down through five levels presents a spectacular visual delight. Irresistible Jungle Streams - Swim or take a refreshing bath 'kampung style' in the clear cool rivers and streams amidst the tranquillity and serenity of the forest. When you've had enough of frolicking in the water, try your luck at a spot of fishing and reel in your catch for lunch or dinner. Camping - Pitch your tents and spend your nights out in the wilds under the stars. The merry chirping of the birds and cicadas in the twilight will make your simple dinner seem like a feast. Orang Asli Village - Endau Rompin is also home to the Orang Asli of the Jakun tribe. Drop by at Kampung Peta near the park entry point and gain valuable insights on Orang Asli culture. Find out how they survive in the wilderness and protect themselves from danger with their hunting and tracking skills. See their recreational activities and listen to their mesmerising yarns about the myths of the surrounding jungle. Nature Study - Given the diverse variety of species and habitats in the area, this can be a very absorbing activity indeed. Inhale the heady perfume of the 'Mussaendra mutabilis', a woody climbing plant with fragrant flowers, used in traditional scents for the hair and clothes. Observe how the famous pitcher plant traps the unwary insect within its enticing waterfilled sacs. See how millions of ants make their homes in tiny chambers within the 'ant'. Johor