Gunung Mulu National Park

Miri, located in Sarawak, Malaysia, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural diversity, natural beauty, and economic significance. Situated on the northwest coast of Borneo island, Miri is the second-largest city in Sarawak, serving as a hub for the oil and gas industry due to its proximity to offshore oil fields. The city's cultural tapestry is woven from various ethnic groups, including the Iban, Malay, Chinese, and other indigenous communities. This diversity is celebrated through festivals, cuisine, and traditions that showcase a harmonious blend of cultures. Visitors can experience the Gawai Dayak festival, where the Iban people celebrate their harvest and culture with dance, music, and traditional rituals. Miri's natural attractions are a major draw for tourists. The city is the gateway to Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, extensive cave systems, and unique biodiversity. The Piasau Nature Reserve offers a chance to spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife, while the pristine beaches along the coastline provide relaxation and water sports opportunities. Economically, Miri's significance is tied to its role in the oil and gas industry. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed the city into a key player in Malaysia's energy sector. This industrial growth has led to modern developments, infrastructure, and a thriving business environment. The city's skyline is marked by a mix of traditional architecture and modern structures, showcasing its transition from a small fishing village to a bustling urban center. Visitors can explore the Petroleum Museum, which traces the history of the oil industry in the region. In recent years, Miri has focused on diversifying its economy through tourism, agriculture, and education. Efforts to promote eco-tourism and preserve its natural wonders contribute to sustainable development. In essence, Miri, Sarawak, is a city that encapsulates the essence of cultural diversity, economic growth, and natural beauty. Its history, industry, and traditions form a tapestry that continues to evolve while embracing its roots. Whether exploring caves, enjoying local delicacies, or witnessing the fusion of tradition and progress, Miri offers a unique and enriching experience for both residents and visitors.

The Pinnacles, Mulu. An amazing experience but not for the faint hearted. From Mulu Park headquarters, it was an hour long boat ride deep into the jungle. from there, it was then a 9km trek through the jungle to camp 5 where we spent the first night. Camp 5 has no phone signal at all, no Wi-Fi, and the sleeping areas have no doors, windows and only 3/4 walls - mosquito nest a a must! the next day the climb to the pinnacles starts at 6am - with strict cut off times to ensure you can get back down safely. it is only 2.5km to the viewpoint, but rises 1200m and the last section is near vertical with 17 ladders to climb. it took us 2.5hrs to get to the top and almost 4hours to get back down - descending was much much harder!

We were all hyped to be able to witness the beauty of the largest cave passage in the world. Just a walking distance of 3 kilometre from the lobby of Taman Negara Mulu. The place was huge enormous and gigantic. 2 kilometers in length and not leas than 90metres high and wide. The main chamber is 174 meters wide and 122 meters high. It is a home to 3 million bats of 12 species and deers always come here to eat guano- dropping of the bats that gove energy to these animals

we bid goodbye to Camp 5 and made our way to Kuala Litut. hiked at 8:14am for 9km & Alhamdulillah we made it for 2 hour and 19 minute boarded the boat & reached Taman Negara. we took the Rainforest Lodge (RM302 for 2 pax). we then unpacked, showered and nap before embarking on our next mission. 245pm Om brought us to Deer Cave. true beauty! this cave is the largest cave passage in d world. and it has sunk million years ago.

The day is finally here. nervous excited plus grateful because it wasnt raining that morning. if it rains, we can never hike because it is dangerous. if anyone wants to extend, it comes with extra cost woke up around 430am. breakfast at 550am (a simple but delicious) while Om the guide packed us fried rice as well. cut off time for first leg is 60 minutes. so off we went at 6.17am from Camp 5. Only 900 metre to meet Mini Pinnacle, but i cant lie how difficult it was plus slippery and sharp stones along the way. spent 15 minutes for break and taking pictures.

Finally after 4 hours hiking, we are here!! See how majestic the Mulu Pinnacles is. Standing tall with the blue and green landscape behind and surrounding it. It was a magical moment for us. We took pictures as many as possible because suddenly the weather turns dark and as if about to rain. The hike was about 2.4kilometre and you guys have to scale up to 17 metal ladders to go up here. but i promise the view is totally worth it!

While still cruising at Melinau River, the next stop Om broughts us to was Cave of the Winds just 8 mins from handicraft centre. The cave name is taken from the breezy wind that enters the cave from the grand entrance. Two important features of Gua Angin: 1. King's Chambers- it resembles the King and his soldiers 2. Sky Garden-ada sinkhole at the cave roof top my pictures don't do it justice but trust me you gonna love it. #mytripvlog #yearofrabbit

While still cruising at Melinau River, the next stop Om broughts us to was Cave of the Winds just 8 mins from handicraft centre. The cave name is taken from the breezy wind that enters the cave from the grand entrance. Two important features of Gua Angin: 1. King's Chambers- it resembles the King and his soldiers 2. Sky Garden-ada sinkhole at the cave roof top my pictures don't do it justice but trust me you gonna love it. #mytripvlog #yearofrabbit

Gunung Mulu is Sarawak’s largest national park (544 sq km), and also Malaysia’s first World Heritage Area. Mulu’s wildlife is often heard but not seen, but visitors are almost certain to encounter bats, swiftlets, cave dwelling insects, snakes, lizards, tree frogs and an abundance of beautiful butterflies. The summit of Gunung Mulu is covered by moss forests and stunted montane vegetation, whilst razor-sharp limestone pinnacles, some as high as 50 metres, are found on the upper slopes of Gunung Api. The park’s forest ecosystems include peatswamp, heath, mixed dipterocarp, moss forest and montane vegetation; home to thousands of species of ferns, fungi, mosses and flowering plants. #besttrip #urbanexplorer

#malaysiatrip Park staff is super friendly and the garden rooms are a pleasure to stay in. The food in the park is diverse, but average. If you are into Malay food, you’ll definitely had better elsewhere. There are local cafes and restaurants around the park, but they seemed to be closed the whole time we were there. The Marriott is available to have a luxury dinner if you want. You can use their free shuttle to have you picked up and dropped back. The guides in the park are very friendly and the tours are great! Beautiful way to explore the flora and fauna of the park. We had a great time staying here, thanks!

#malaysiatrip This is the national park that took care of all the caves expedition in this area. Very simple and down to earth set up. Nothing fancy but things are well coordinated. You can approach the office to arrange guided tour and they are super friendly in explaining all the details to you. Guides are knowledgeable and helpful. Price for guided tour is reasonable too. We really enjoy our time here.

#2024wish Exploring Gunung Mulu National Park was a captivating experience. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the park's lush rainforest and diverse ecosystems are truly awe-inspiring. The highlight of my visit was discovering the world's largest underground chamber, an astounding natural wonder. Trekking through the verdant trails, I marveled at the towering limestone formations and intricate cave systems that make this park a unique destination for nature enthusiasts. The vibrant biodiversity, including rare species like the Rajah Brooke's Birdwing butterfly, added to the park's allure. Witnessing the Pinnacles, needle-like limestone formations, was a surreal moment. Gunung Mulu National Park is a testament to the wonders of our planet, showcasing the beauty and importance of preserving our natural heritage. In 2024, I wish to visit Bario.