Around the world, there are countless examples of stunning landscapes and beautiful places which seem as if they were designed by Mother Nature herself to act as the world’s own masterpieces. A lot of people like to spend their vacations and time away from work visiting places like this, getting a chance to soak up something more when they travel. Of course, though, achieving this isn’t always easy. To help you out, this post will be exploring the natural side of Malaysia, and how you can find yourself in it.
A Brief History
Before you go somewhere, it is always a good idea to brush up a little on their culture, and this has to start with some history. Malaysia has been host to human beings for well overs 40,000 years, originally dominated by Negrito, Chinese, and Indian settlers. This small spit of land saw its fair share of conflicts, historical events, and other experiences which have shaped the country you know today. This rich heritage is evident to anyone blessed with the chance of visiting Malaysia.
Of course, though, you can’t stop with the ancient history, and it’s important to consider what more recent times have brought. Between the 16th and 17th Century, Malaysia was largely controlled by Portuguese and Dutch forces, following on with the British under the banner of the East India Company. With all of these countries having their influence on this small peninsula, a varied mix of ideas can be found.
Today, Malaysia is one of the most culturally diverse countries throughout all of Asia. With members of the Islamic, Buddhist, Christian, and Hindu faiths found everywhere, it is easy to see how this place has managed to develop such a colourful culture. Of course, though, you’re more interested in the nature this place has to offer. With rainforests and other natural environments under threat, now is the time to visit Malaysia if you want to do it for the diversity which can be found.
Mount Kinabalu And Kinabalu Park
There are few things in the world which are more impressive than mountains. Forming the largest part of Borneo’s Crocker Range, Mount Kinabalu has made a name for itself across the world as one of the most stunning sites in Malaysia. Of course, though, this is easy to say, and this attraction shows it’s strength by holding World Heritage Site status. This is partly thanks to the ancient burial grounds which are found in the area.
Along with offering a mountain for visitors to see, Kinabalu is also home to a national park. This is one of the best places in the world to see orangutans in the wild, with the rainforests found here being perfect for them. There are loads of great places to stay in this park, giving you access to hotels, lodges, and even the chance to camp under the stars; an experience few people get to have in this part of the world.
Batu Caves
This next venue isn’t something which Mother Nature made on her own. Instead, the Batu caves, while stunning enough on their own, are also home to one of the most impressive temples in the world. The caves here were created naturally by Sungai Batu which now flows directly next to the monuments. This fusion of natural beauty and human culture makes Batu Caves one of the most popular attractions throughout the country, and this makes sense when you see it for yourself.
Taman Negara
Locals will tell you that the Taman Negara rainforest is over 130 million years old, and the place certainly looks it. Of course, though, it can be hard to take in all of the wildlife from the ground, and this is why this forest has a treetop walkway which can give you access to all of the best sights. Along with this, lazy river tours will make it easy to forget about your apartments and all-inclusive dinners, being replaced by feelings of serenity. This isn’t the only place with some height on offer, though.
Langkawi Sky Bridge
Langkawi is a series of islands found off the coast of Malaysia. Home to rainforests, tropical beaches, and a skybridge which puts most major cities to shame, this is a great place to visit if you want to see some nature from the comfort of a five star hotel. You won’t find many places around the world with the same sort of appeal as Langkawi. Of course, though, islands are plentiful, especially in this part of the world, and you will feel spoilt for choice.
Tioman Island
For some people, the chance to get involved with something great while visiting a beautiful part of the world will be a great partnership. Tioman Island is home to the Juara Turtle Project which is aimed at helping turtles to make it to adulthood, along with loads of other organisations which are related to conservation and nature. While you will have to do some hard work, you can often get involved with places like this, and this will give you the chance to leave your vacation feeling like you’ve made a big difference.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Finally, as the last option on this list, it’s time to switch your focus to another type of animal; the majestic orangutan. With these creatures being native to Malaysia, along with loads of other small primates, there are quite a few places like this which are dedicated to helping them. Giving you the chance to get hands-on experience with some of the smartest animals alive, this will be a memory you will find hard to forget. You may have to travel while on vacation to make the most of this, but this will be worth it once you arrive.
Hopefully, with all of this in mind, you will be ready to visit Malaysia for what it really has to offer; nature. While this country has had a bad track record with conservation and environmental work in the past, things are starting to change, and the more money which can be made from tourists the better.