Gunung Mulu National Park Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural wonders of Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, Malaysia with this comprehensive travel guide, covering everything from outdoor adventures to local food and customs.


Gunung Mulu National Park is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking adventure, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Located in Sarawak, Malaysia, in Southeast Asia, Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses one of the most spectacular karst landscapes in the world, with towering limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and underground rivers and caves. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, flora, and fauna, as well as many indigenous communities who have lived in the area for centuries.

Introduction to Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is named after Mount Mulu, the second highest peak in Sarawak, which stands at an impressive height of 2,377 meters above sea level. The park covers an area of 52,865 hectares and is located near the border of Brunei, in the Baram District of northern Sarawak. The park was established in 1974 and has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia, attracting visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Gunung Mulu National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the main highlights of Gunung Mulu National Park is its rich cultural heritage, which can be explored through a visit to the park’s various museums and historical sites. The following are some of the top cultural attractions in the park:

  • The Museum of Borneo Beads: This museum showcases the traditional beadwork of the indigenous people of Sarawak and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the area.
  • The Longhouse at Batu Bungan: This traditional longhouse is home to the Penan people, one of the indigenous communities of Sarawak. Visitors can learn about their customs and way of life and purchase handicrafts made by the locals.
  • The Deer Cave: This cave contains evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years and is home to a large number of bat species.

Natural Attractions of Gunung Mulu National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Another major draw of Gunung Mulu National Park is its stunning natural beauty, which can be experienced through a variety of outdoor activities and sightseeing tours. The following are some of the top natural attractions in the park:

  • Pinnacles Trail: This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the park, leading to the top of the iconic limestone formations known as the Pinnacles. The views from the top are breathtaking.
  • Clearwater Cave and Cave of the Winds: These are two of the park’s most impressive caves, featuring stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers.
  • Canopy Walkway: This suspended walkway is the longest in the world and provides a thrilling bird’s eye view of the rainforest canopy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails to suit all levels of experience and fitness. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • The Headhunter’s Trail: This is a three-day trek that takes visitors through the rainforest to the summit of Mount Api, one of the highest peaks in Sarawak. Along the way, visitors can observe the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest and learn about the area’s history and culture.
  • The Mulu Summit Trail: This is a challenging two-day trek that takes visitors to the summit of Mount Mulu, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Tree Top Tower Trail: This is a relatively easy hike that leads to a 25-meter-high observation tower, offering panoramic views of the park.

Best Things to Do in Gunung Mulu National Park: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Gunung Mulu National Park beyond hiking and biking. Here are some of the top activities and tours:

  • Night Safari: This guided tour takes visitors on a nighttime trek through the rainforest, where they can observe nocturnal animals such as flying squirrels, civets, and tarsiers.
  • River Cruise: This leisurely boat ride takes visitors down the Melinau River, providing a unique perspective of the park’s limestone cliffs and vegetation.
  • Bat Exodus: Each evening, millions of bats leave the Deer Cave in search of food. Visitors can witness this incredible natural phenomenon from a viewing platform.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gunung Mulu National Park

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Gunung Mulu National Park:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at one of the park’s lodges or guesthouses Day 2: Canopy walkway and visit to the Museum of Borneo Beads Day 3: Clearwater Cave and Cave of the Winds Day 4: Trek to the Pinnacles Day 5: Day trip to the Longhouse at Batu Bungan Day 6: River cruise and bat exodus Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Gunung Mulu National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Sarawak is known for its unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cuisines, and Gunung Mulu National Park offers plenty of opportunities to sample local specialties. Here are some dishes to try:

  • Laksa Sarawak: This spicy noodle soup is a Sarawakian favorite, made with a unique blend of herbs, spices, and tamarind juice.
  • Ayam Pansuh: This traditional dish features chicken cooked in bamboo tubes with lemongrass, ginger, and other herbs.
  • Tuak: This local rice wine is a popular drink in Sarawak, made from fermented rice or sugar cane.

Local Beverages

In addition to tuak, the following are some other local drinks to try:

  • Teh C Peng: This sweetened iced tea is a refreshing drink on a hot day.
  • Kedondong Juice: This sour fruit juice is a flavorful alternative to more traditional fruit juices.

Where to Stay in Gunung Mulu National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodations in Gunung Mulu National Park, ranging from basic guesthouses to luxury lodges. Here are some popular options:

  • Mulu Marriott Resort and Spa: This luxurious resort offers modern amenities and is located just a short distance from the park’s main attractions.
  • Benarat Lodge: This basic guesthouse offers comfortable and affordable accommodation for those on a budget.
  • Mulu Park Headquarters: This is the park’s official accommodation and offers a range of options, including dormitories and private rooms.

What to Buy in Gunung Mulu National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Gunung Mulu National Park can purchase a variety of souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Some popular items include:

  • Handicrafts made by the Penan people, such as bags, baskets, and mats
  • Traditional beadwork and jewelry
  • Local tea and coffee

Local Culture and Customs of Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is home to several indigenous communities, including the Penan, who have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and customs, such as dressing modestly and not taking photographs without permission.

Best Time to Visit Gunung Mulu National Park

The best time to visit Gunung Mulu National Park is during the dry season, which runs from March to October. However, visitors should be aware that the park can be busy during peak season (June to August) and should book accommodations and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gunung Mulu National Park

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Stay on marked trails and obey park regulations
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen

Don’t:

  • Pick or remove any plants or animals
  • Litter or leave trash in the park
  • Wear inappropriate clothing or behave inappropriately

Safety and Health

Safety in Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is generally a safe destination, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as slippery trails, steep drop-offs, and venomous snakes and insects. Visitors should also take precautions against leeches and bring appropriate gear such as hiking boots and rain jackets.

Health in Gunung Mulu National Park

Visitors to Gunung Mulu National Park should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, and rubella, as well as hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria and dengue fever are also present in the area, so visitors should take precautions against mosquito bites and consider taking prophylactic medication if recommended by a healthcare provider.

Getting to Gunung Mulu National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gunung Mulu National Park

The nearest airport to Gunung Mulu National Park is Mulu Airport (MZV), which is served by flights from several major cities in Malaysia.

Bus Stations Near Gunung Mulu National Park

There are several bus stations near Gunung Mulu National Park, including Marudi Bus Station and Bintulu Bus Station, both of which offer connections to major cities in Sarawak.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Gunung Mulu National Park by riverboat from the town of Marudi, located about 80 km away.

How to Get Around in Gunung Mulu National Park

Visitors to Gunung Mulu National Park can explore the area on foot, but may also choose to rent a bicycle or book transportation through a tour operator.

Where to Go Next from Gunung Mulu National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Gunung Mulu National Park may wish to continue their journey through Sarawak and explore other nearby destinations, such as:

  • Miri: This coastal city is known for its beaches, national parks, and cultural attractions
  • Kuching: The state capital of Sarawak, Kuching is known for its historic landmarks, museums, and local cuisine
  • Bako National Park: Located near Kuching, Bako National Park offers stunning scenery and a chance to see rare proboscis monkeys in the wild

Conclusion

Gunung Mulu National Park is a destination like no other, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and outdoor adventure. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their itinerary, learn about the local culture and customs, and make the most of their visit to this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site.

The pinnacles of Mulu The pinnacles of Mulu This person has paid their park fee This person has paid their park fee Cave in Gunung Mulu National Park Cave in Gunung Mulu National Park On the Garden of Eden trail On the Garden of Eden trail A section of the canopy skywalk A section of the canopy skywalk