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| From a sleepy fishing village, Pulau Redang (Redang
Island) has grown into one of the most popular tourist destinations on the
east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The reefs of the Redang archipelago are
home to over 55 genera of corals and 100 species of fish. Every year, Pulau
Redang attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the sun, beaches
and spectacular marine life |
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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
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