Five best things to do at Mulu National Park
The story of Mulu goes way way back to approximately 40 million years ago, with its geographical formation taking place deep beneath the sea, shaping the landscapes of modern-day Mulu.
Covering 55,000 hectares, Mulu National Park is the biggest national park in Sarawak and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in November 2000. Mulu National Park is a trove of natural treasures that is not only beautiful in its flora and fauna but full of adventures for the thrill seekers.
Reachable by 20-minute flight from Miri, Mulu is not a place you can simply go last minute without anything planned beforehand – you’ll be flustered if you do so! The range of activities offered here is extensive. That said, here are five best things to do at Mulu National Park:
Climb the Pinnacles
This one is self-explanatory. The number one reason why people from all parts of the world flock to Mulu is to witness the majestic pinnacles with their own eyes. Towering up to 50 metres high, the rugged and steep limestone pinnacles mid-way up the slopes of Gunung Api are a feast to the eyes and a glorious reward after a gruelling 3D2N trek to get there.
The Pinnacles is an extremely difficult climb as some parts of the trail are very steep, so only do so if you are an experienced trekker.
Observe the biodiversity from the Canopy Walk
Did you know that the Mulu canopy walk is one of the longest tree-based canopy walks in the world? Spanning over 480-metre long, this canopy walk will make your heart race as you catch a glimpse of life in the Bornean jungle from 25 metres above the forest floor.
The best thing about canopy walks are that they serve as great vantage points to survey the natural world, and gain a deeper understanding of it. Among the interesting creatures you might see among the treetops are pygmy squirrel, green lizards and Brooke’s Wing butterfly. Plus, canopy walks are a form of natural therapy.
Visit the show caves
For amateur cavers, a visit to the show caves is a great introduction to Mulu’s exquisitely beautiful caverns. Show caves such as Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave and Lang Cave each have their own specialties that will take your breath away.
Deer Cave is one of the largest cave passages in the world and is home to over 3 million Wrinkle Lipped bats. You can witness a bat exodus here too (which occurs between 4.30 and 6pm).
The Clearwater Cave, on the other hand is one of the biggest cave systems in the world. To get here, you need to take a cruise up Melinau River in a longboat. Once inside, you will see a delightfully clear pool with bluish-green water. It’s an amazing sight right here in our backyard.
Go adventure caving
After spelunking in the show caves, explore more of Mulu’s majestic cave systems and go adventure caving. Do bear in mind that this activity is only for those with a high level of stamina.
For the adventurous families, Lagang Cave is perfect. It is famous for its many stalactites, stalagmites, and samples of cave sediments.
Racer Cave requires some of your upper body strength as you will need to climb up and down the passageways with the aid of ropes. Be careful with your steps as you might just chance upon a Racer Snake in this underground world!
For the most advanced cavers, a journey through Clearwater Connection or Sarawak Chamber will be a test of the mind and strength. You’ll be climbing over rugged boulders, clambering down muddy slopes and even swim across the underground river. Talk about adventure!
Meet the local Orang Ulu people
Finally, a trip to Mulu is incomplete without meeting the local people living there.
Known as the ‘upriver people’, The Orang Ulu people consist of a few diverse tribes living in the interior of central and northern of Sarawak. Since generations ago until now, the rivers have remained a lifeblood for these Orang Ulu, since they provide clean water and fishes, and serve as the area’s main transport routes. In Mulu, the settlements are mostly found around the banks of Melinau and Tutoh Rivers.
From the Penan settlement at the Batu Bungan and Long Iman villages to the Berawan community of Long Terawan, witness how they live in these remote areas far from modernisation. They will be happy to receive visitors – you might even get the chance to try the blowpipe too!
