Thursday, July 16, 2009

Natinal Parks in Malaysia


National Parks

There is really no better place in the world to experience exotic flora and fauna in their pristine tropical environment! Malaysia has a range of National Parks from mangrove reserves and tropical rainforests to Marine Parks. Just a few degrees north of the equator, the lush rainforests and the warm oceans set the perfect backdrop to watch wildlife in their natural habitat.

It is therefore not surprising that nearly 75% of Malaysia’s land area remains forested, with approximately 60% of that being virgin rainforest. A signatory to the Rio Summit in 1992, Malaysia has pledged to retain a minimum of 50% of its forests and tree cover in perpetuity as its contribution to the global concern for conservation. As one of the twelve mega-biologically diverse countries in the world, Malaysia is able to boast at least 15,000 species of flowering plants, 286 species of mammals, 150,000 species of invertebrates, and 4,000 species of fishes in addition to the countless micro-organisms. Not surprisingly, it is a point of pride for Malaysia that this astonishing level of biodiversity is found in Malaysia’s National Parks.

Among the biggest and best-known tropical flora and fauna here are the Sumatran Rhinoceros, the Sun Bear, the Malayan Tiger, the Orangutan, Rainforest Tarantulas and the Proboscis Monkey. Borneo is especially well known for the world’s biggest flower, the Rafflesia.

Aside from the diverse flora and fauna, Malaysia’s National Parks also offer a huge range of outdoor activities, from activities as challenging as white water rafting and rock climbing to pastimes as calm as bird watching and river cruising. Experienced outdoor professionals, who are well equipped with the latest gear, can guide you through all of these activities. If you are looking for rich and exotic outdoor experiences in balmy tropical weather, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

Key Tips
Take note of the rainy season when planning excursions and always bring along rain gear. Although the weather can be unpredictable, the monsoon season falls from September to December on the West Coast of the Peninsula. There is a distinct monsoon on the East Coast from December to February, while the rainy season in Borneo takes place in the first quarter of the year.
National Park Attractions
click to view Pulau Payar Marine Park
This beautiful marine park features underwater wonders coupled with great facilities to get you closer to nature.
click to view Taman Negara
Taman Negara (National Park) is the first and the oldest national park in the country and is filled to the brim with exciting eco-tourism activities.
click to view Kenong Rimba Park
This 120 sq. km. forest park is a sprawling area of lowland forest rising to the limestone hills bordering Taman Negara.
click to view Niah National Park
The most magnificent limestone caves are concealed within this sprawling jungle.
click to view Penang National Park
Catch the Green turtles (Apr – Aug) and the Olive Ridley (Sept–Feb) at a turtle hatchery in Pantai Kerachut, in the smallest national park in Malaysia.
click to view Batang Ai National Park
The park's vast rainforest is home to wildlife such as orang utans, gibbons and hornbills. It also contains a five-star hotel.
click to view Lambir Hill National Park
Stunning sandstone hills and emerald green pools make this a picturesque getaway.
click to view Danum Valley
The beautiful Danum Valley is a huge conservation area incredibly rich in flora and stunning views.
click to view Similajau National Park
This 30km long coastal park is home to some of Sarawak's finest beaches.
click to view Gunung Gading National Park
The chief attraction at Gunung Gading is the giant Rafflesia blossom. This is one of the best places in Borneo to see this rarity.
click to view Bako National Park
Gazetted in 1957, Bako is Sarawak’s oldest national park, covering an area of 2,727 hectares at the tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula.
click to view Tanjung Piai National Park
Tanjung Piai is an environmental sanctuary, made up of coastal mangroves and is home to unique mangrove dwellers.
click to view Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Comprising five beautiful islands with good facilities, beaches and snorkelling, just a 10-minute boat ride from the capital Kota Kinabalu.
click to view Tanjung Datu National Park
Although small, this park protects both coral reefs and virgin rainforests - which lie just 100m from each othe

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