COOL HIGHLAND RESORTS
Where
cool highland holidays await you
Welcome to Malaysia’s cool highland resorts. Located on the main mountain ranges
of Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia, these charming highland resorts are a refreshing change
for those seeking a respite from the warmer
tropical weather. With temperatures averaging
16° to 21°C, Malaysia’s highlands offer generous open green expanses, fresh mountain air and breathtaking flora and fauna.
Come up to
the highlands Be it the exciting city in the clouds, Genting Highlands, or the idyllic hamlet of Fraser’s Hill, each highland destination is a unique getaway with its own distinctive character. Come discover enchanting Penang Hill and tranquil Bukit Larut up north. In the state of Pahang is the charming Cameron
Highlands and invigorating Bukit Tinggi. Across the South China Sea in the scenic island of Borneo, lies Kinabalu Park, a World Heritage Site.
Whether you stroll through cool tea or strawberry plantations, trek through misty jungles to catch glimpses of rare fauna and flora, or tee off above the
clouds, Malaysia’s highland resorts will provide you with an uplifting experience.
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Cool Highland Resorts
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Cool Highland Resorts
Exhilarating
Genting Highlands If you are looking for round-the-clock excitement in the cool
highlands, the glitzy ‘City of Entertainment’, Genting Highlands, beckons. Situated some 1,800m above sea level and just
under an hour’s drive from Malaysia’s capital city of Kuala Lumpur, this resort is popular among locals and overseas visitors for its fine mix of tranquil and thrilling attractions.
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Cool Highland Resorts
The pace of life quickens as you journey upwards from the foothill towards Genting Highlands at the summit. The idyllic township of Gohtong Jaya and the peaceful Awana Genting resort nearby, give way to the fast paced international resort ambience at the top. The main draw of this ‘city in the clouds’, is the abundance of heady indoor and outdoor theme attractions. Experience first-hand the exciting Sky Venture, Asia’s first skydiving simulator; give your lungs a good workout with the heart-rending Corkscrew, the adrenaline-pumping Space Shot or the mind-numbing Spinner. Be it the romantic gondola or stomach-churning roller coaster rides, the wild, wet Water Park or mesmerising Snow World, the bountiful bowling alleys or the taxing X-pedition rock climbing wall, Genting promises endless thrills. Aspiring pop divas will love the Be A Star Karaoke sessions, while party animals can dance the night away at the Cloud 9 Discotheque. Accommodation atop Genting Highlands is aplenty with numerous apartments and hotels to choose from, including the First World Hotel & Plaza, reputedly the world’s largest integrated entertainment complex. The combination of all these attractions, together with over 80 international and local food and beverage outlets, 70 alluring shopping outlets, and much much more, certainly makes this City of Entertainment live up to its name. You will never be in want of an exciting experience at Genting Highlands. Try your hand at the Casino de Genting, check out the many internationally renowned performances, or simply take in a leisurely game of golf. Whatever your fancy, this fast paced hill resort promises you endless hours of round-theclock fun.
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Genting Highlands
Getting to Genting Fifty-one kilometres northeast of Kuala
Lumpur, Genting Highlands is accessible
via the new scenic 6-lane Karak Highway or the Batang Kali Road up north. At its foot lies a rest and recreational area
where you can indulge in a quick meal or
shop for groceries before continuing your journey up the hill. Midway, lie Gohtong Jaya and the 5-star Awana Genting
Highlands Golf & Country Resort.
At Gohtong Jaya, you will find several
good restaurants, while Awana Genting offers well-appointed guest rooms,
an award-winning 18-hole golf course and an eco-sports centre with over 30 innovative recreational activities.
The nearby Awana Horse Ranch offers good horse riding facilities while the
ornate Chin Swee Temple serves as a spiritual retreat.
Skyway (Cable Car Services)
Operating Hours
To get to the summit, you can board a cable car at the
Genting Skyway Sun - Fri 7.30am - 11.00pm Sat 7.30am - 2.00am
Awana Lower Skyway Station that will take you straight up to the Genting Hotel. Alternatively, take the 3.4-kilometre
cable car ride near the Awana Horse Ranch, which will link you to the Highland Hotel. Both rides offer you panoramic views of the lush tropical rainforest and its environs.
Awana Skyway Sun - Fri 11.15pm - 7.30am Sat 2.15am - 7.30am
Note:When the Genting Skyway is not operating, visitors can board the Awana Skyway.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Luxury Shuttle Coach and Limousine Services The resort has its own fleet of luxury shuttle coaches to ferry guests from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) via the KL Sentral Station to Genting and back. Alternatively,
passengers taking the KLIA Ekspres from KLIA to KL Sentral Station, can board the express shuttle service to Genting at KL Sentral. For enquiries and reservations, contact 03-6251 8398.
Practical Tips
If you are driving, do not overload your
vehicle on the way up the hill, as the roads are rather steep. Ensure your car brakes
are functioning well for the trip to Genting. Above all, drive carefully as there are
many precarious bends and heavy traffic during public holidays. During poor
visibility or misty conditions, it is advisable to avoid driving up to the resort.
Express Bus Services
Genting Express Bus services are available from any of the following locations to the Genting Lower Skyway Station near the Awana Horse Ranch: • •
Puduraya Bus Terminal Tel: 03-2072 6863 KL Sentral Station Tel: 03-2279 8989
• •
Gombak Putra LRT Station Tel: 012-236 9611 Pasarakyat, Jalan Imbi Tel: 03-2148 4300/6300
Contact
Resorts World Berhad 23rd Floor,Wisma Genting Jalan Sultan Ismail 50250 Kuala Lumpur Tel : 03-2718 1118 Fax : 03-2718 1888 E-mail : customercare@genting.com Website : www.genting.com.my
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Genting Highlands
Charming
Cameron
Highlands
There is much to see and do in Cameron Highlands, the largest of Malaysia’s highland resorts. Be it walks through lovely little villages and charming butterfly, strawberry and honey bee farms, or visits to delightful Tudor-style country inns and sprawling tea plantations, this resort will captivate you with its rustic charm. Situated 1,500m above sea level, about two hours away from Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands comprises a series of little townships that include Ringlet,Tanah Rata, Brinchang,Tringkap, Kuala Terla and Kampung Raja.
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Cool Highlands Resorts
The Adventure Begins The journey from the foot of the hill to the summit is an adventure in itself. You can get there via the town of Tapah or through the new highway at Simpang Pulai.The route via Tapah takes you past natural waterfalls, hot springs, Orang Asli (indigenous people) villages, religious shrines, souvenir shops, roadside markets and much more. A quick stop at Kuala Woh, unveils a recreational park with natural hot springs, while further on at Chenderiang, and Lata Iskandar, beautiful cascading waterfalls beckon.
Ringlet Ringlet, the first of the Cameron Highlands townships lies 1,135m above sea level. If you are driving, you will probably want to stop here for petrol and to take in the surrounding attractions that include a market, a temple, a magnificent Tudor-style hotel called The Lakehouse, and several delightful flower nurseries. A right turn just after Habu will lead you past a multitude of vegetable farms and straight to the sprawling Boh Tea Estate where you can tour the Boh factory and indulge in a cup of hot tea. If you are feeling a little adventurous, you may want to get off the beaten track and try the Dayang Endah trail that will lead you to the Robinson Waterfall.These hills also offer a host of other trails that involve either a gentle stroll or a half-day trek for the very fit. Back on the main road to Tanah Rata, you will come across the Cameron Bharat Tea Plantation and the Tea Shop with its unique souvenirs, scrumptious scones and more tea. In the valley below, the enchanting dark green terraces of the tea plantation are the perfect backdrop for a photo.
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Cameron Highlands
Tanah Rata At 1,300m above sea level, the main township of Tanah Rata offers attractions like the Nine Emperor God Temple, the Parit Waterfall, a Hindu temple and the Rainbow Garden.There is no lack of accommodation here as you can choose from a range of first class hotels, motels and apartments. If you want to experience a bit of nostalgia, drop by Bala’s Holiday Chalet or the Smokehouse Hotel, both reminiscent of country inns. The Smokehouse Hotel has managed to retain much of its country house charm complete with latticed windows, wooden beams and rose garden with white iron-wrought garden furniture. Its interiors, filled with antiques from a bygone era, portraits of the British Royal family, rich dark carpets, heavy sofas and four-poster beds, complete the pretty picture.
Brinchang Beckons Five kilometres up the road is Brinchang, the highest-lying township in Cameron Highlands. Its attractions include a Sikh temple, the ornate Sam Poh Temple, numerous amenities and a handicraft centre. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy teeing off at the 18-hole Cameron Highlands Golf Club, the only course on the hill. The nearby Cactus Valley, which features thousands of cacti on display, also boasts a comprehensive variety of plants and foliage as well as apple trees, passion fruit and other temperate climate fruits. Several strawberry farms dot the area. Some grow strawberries organically in coconut husks placed on stilt-like platforms off the ground. Here you can pay a small fee to pick fresh succulent strawberries or simply purchase the assortment of homemade jam or dried strawberries. A short distance away, the Multicrops Central Market and Kea Farm offer you fresh highland produce at a fraction of city prices. From big ripe brinjals and juicy avocados, to multi-coloured dried flowers and dainty little souvenirs, you will want to spend some time here exploring the many delightful finds.
On your descent, stop by the Butterfly Farm and Butterfly Garden to view the many beautiful species, including the renowned Raja Brooke. Nearby, strategically placed giant comic replicas of honey bees will lead you to the Ee Feng Gu Honey Bee Farm. Here you can view bees gathering pollen amidst the plush sweet scented gardens and orchards, as well as savour and purchase bottles of pure honey. Do also drop by the adjacent Rose Valley where about 450 varieties of roses flourish. On the left of the Butterfly Farm is the picturesque Sungai Palas Boh Tea Estate. Stop by at the factory to learn about tea processing or watch an audio visual presentation and sample some Cameronian tea.The same road leads you to Gunung Brinchang, reputedly the highest road in Peninsular Malaysia at 2,000m above sea level. Enjoy the panoramic views from the mountaintop.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Getting to the Highlands Cameron Highlands is accessible either via Tapah or the new highway at Simpang Pulai. If you are driving up from Kuala Lumpur, the Simpang Pulai exit is another 45 minutes north of Tapah along the North-South Expressway.The ascent along this route is much smoother and less precarious than the route from Tapah. Bus and taxi services are available from the Puduraya bus terminal in Kuala Lumpur and take you all the way up to Tanah Rata. Alternatively, take a train to Tapah and then continue your journey via taxi or bus up to Tanah Rata.
Practical Tips
Cameron Highlands offers many delightful jungle trails for nature lovers. However, during poor weather conditions, please consult your hotel or guesthouse on the suitability of the trails before embarking on your trek. It is advisable that you begin earlier in the day and not late in the afternoon, as some of these walks may take up to a few hours, and you may not finish before nightfall. Do inform your hosts or local authorities of the route you are taking, and when you plan to get back.
Contact
The Descent If you came up the hill via Tapah, you may want to try the newer Simpang Pulai route on your descent to Highway Exit 137 leading to the North-South Expressway.This new 59-kilometre road is a pleasant scenic drive as the turns are not so tight. On the way down, you will pass the Blue Valley Tea Estate and the townships of Tringkap, Kuala Terla and Kampung Raja as well as farming communities living on the hillside.
Tourism Malaysia Pahang Pejabat Tourism Malaysia Pahang Lot G.01, Mahkota Square Jalan Mahkota 25000 Kuantan, Pahang Tel : 09-517 7111 / 3 / 5 Fax : 09-517 7114 E-mail : mtpb.pahang@tourism.gov.my
The enchanting views of the Peninsular’s main mountain range and the luxuriant mist-filled forests, will take your breath away.
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Cameron Highlands
Nostalgic
Fraser’s Hill
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Cool Highland Resorts
Sitting pretty amidst the Pahang rainforests is the little hamlet of Fraser's Hill. At 1,524m above sea level, this highland resort is a naturalists’ paradise boasting innumerable plant, bird and animal species.This resort is popular with those who are interested in gentler nature-based pursuits such as trekking, bird watching, horse riding, fishing and camping.
Origins Fraser’s Hill owes its name to a Scottish trader,
Louis James Fraser, who established a tin ore trading station in the forested mountains between the
Selangor-Pahang border at the end of the 19th century. Fraser was known to have used a mule train to
ascend the hill and trade in tin ore until the fateful day that he mysteriously disappeared in the dense
forested hills. A search was mounted for Fraser but he was never found. However, the potential of the
hills as a cool getaway was uncovered.The hills were surveyed and eventually developed into a hill retreat named after the missing Scotsman in 1919.
Access to Fraser’s Hill is only possible by road via the
‘Gap’ at the base of the resort. Once you get through the Gap and into Fraser’s Hill proper, you will feel as though you have gone back in time to a bygone era. Fraser’s Hill is akin to a little Scottish village with
granite-coloured, mock-Tudor buildings dotting the landscape.The town proper is relatively small, with much of the activity centred on a market square
dominated by a little clock tower. Most of the town’s amenities are housed in colonial-style buildings.
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Fraser’s Hill
The Scottish charm has been carefully replicated elsewhere throughout the resort so as to harmonise with the environment. From Ye Olde Smokehouse’s country home ambience to the many Tudor-style public rest houses and privately owned bungalows, right up to the Paddock housing the resort’s horses and the myriad flower gardens, the colonial influence is evident everywhere. To support the many conservation efforts being carried out in this naturalists’ paradise, the Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre (FHNEC) was set up in 1997. Sitting smack in the centre of town, it should be the first stop for those looking to learn more about the resort and its abundant flora and fauna. To maintain the relatively unspoiled beauty, FHNEC and various other parties are undertaking conservation efforts to preserve the eight scenic nature trails in the vicinity.
Considered one of Malaysia’s premier locations for bird watching, this hill resort hosts the annual Fraser’s Hill International Bird Race.This bird watching competition requires bird watchers to race against time to spot as many bird species as possible within the resort’s routes. Visitors to Fraser’s Hill have an abundance of relaxing activities to indulge in. From a game of golf at the 9-hole Royal Fraser’s Hill Golf Club or the 18-hole Fraser’s Hill Golf & Country Club to fishing and boating at Allan’s Water, from strolls among the many beautiful flower gardens and parks to splashing about in the icy cold Jeriau Waterfalls, there are enough leisurely pursuits to keep you busy. Accommodation at Fraser’s Hill includes serviced apartments, medium to large bungalows and hotels.
Up and Down Fraser’s Hill Fraser’s Hill is an hour and a half away from Kuala Lumpur by car. En route, you will pass the town of Kuala Kubu Bharu and the journey thereafter will take approximately 45 minutes along a winding stretch of road. When you arrive at the foot of Fraser’s Hill, you will need to stop at the ‘Gap’, a stretch that utilises a gate control system to regulate the flow of ascending and descending traffic according to a fixed schedule.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Bus,Taxi and Train Services Direct bus services from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Kuala Kubu Bharu (KKB) are currently unavailable.You have to take a bus from the Puduraya bus terminal or board Metrobus no. 43 to Rawang at the bus stop near Bangkok Bank, along Jalan Tun H. S. Lee. Once you arrive in Rawang, catch Metrobus no. 36 to Tanjung Malim that will make a stop at the KKB bus station. From there, you can charter a taxi to Fraser’s Hill for approximately RM70.
Another option is to take the KTM Komuter train from KL Sentral, disembark at the Rawang station and catch the half-hourly train service to KKB.You can take a taxi to the hill resort from the station for about the same fare. For more information, call the Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation Information Centre. Because the road is very narrow, uphill traffic is allowed at odd hours from 7.00am to 7.00pm while downhill traffic is allowed at even hours from 8.00am to 6.00pm. During these times, traffic is only allowed through for the first 40 minutes of each hour (no traffic is allowed through in the last 20 minutes). This 20-minute buffer acts as a safety measure to ensure all vehicles have adequate time to get to their destinations. Traffic between 8.00pm and 6.40am is not controlled and the gate remains open on both lanes of the Gap.
Practical Tips
While the drive up the hill is a pleasant one, the winding roads can give passengers motion sickness.You may want to roll down the windows for some fresh air and drive a bit slower. If you are descending the hill in the evening, do stop to take in the spectacular sunset amidst the nearby Kuala Selangor Dam. Aim to drive up the hill in the daytime, as the winding roads can be quite precarious.
Contact Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation 49000 Fraser’s Hill Pahang Tel : 09-362 2201 (Information Centre) 09-362 2195 (Main office) Fax : 09-362 2273 E-mail : pkbf@streamyx.com Website : www.pkbf.org.my
Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre 1st Floor, Sports Complex 49000 Fraser’s Hill Pahang Tel : 09-362 2517 Fax : 09-362 2716 Website : www.wwfmalaysia.org
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Fraser’s Hill
Tranquil
Bukit Larut Bukit Larut, the smallest hill resort in Malaysia, towers over Taiping, famous for its lake gardens.The unique thing about this hillside resort is that nature has been left alone to flourish so bountifully. Gazetted as a permanent forest reserve in 1910, Bukit Larut’s untouched montane forests are filled with bird life while squirrels and gibbons roam around freely.This resort is especially popular with nature lovers, bird watchers, day trippers and others looking for a tranquil getaway.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Bukit Larut, perched 1,250m above sea level, was formerly called Maxwell Hill.
It derived its name from George Maxwell, a British Resident of Perak who set up the hill station about a hundred years ago to serve as a cool retreat for colonial officials from the humidity of the lowlands.With Taiping’s lush greenery, giant trees and placid lakes, it is easy to see why Maxwell chose this hill. Before you ascend the hill, it is worthwhile to visit Taiping’s many attractions such as the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari, the war cemetery, museum and its beautiful lake gardens.
Ascending Bukit Larut Situated about 290km from Kuala
Lumpur and 9km from Taiping, Bukit
Larut is accessible only via government vehicle.This service operates between 8.00am to 5.00pm daily. Bookings for accommodation can be made at the office at the foot of the hill.
Transportation up to the summit of Bukit Larut is by government Land Rover, for which a
small fee is charged. In the olden days, pony back rides and sedan chairs were the only mode
of transport up the hill.Today, 13km of tarred road takes you to the summit.The roads are still narrow and steep with 72 very sharp bends.
Among the many trails here, the Gunung Hijau trail is the best for bird watchers. It spirals up towards Gunung Hijau at 1,449m above sea level. On a clear day, you can see all of Taiping
town and even the Perak coastline from this vantage point. For nature lovers, the Mountain
Giant Fishtail Palm, wild orchids and many other exotic species can be found here. There are
various bungalows and rest houses offering comfortable accommodation, most of them built about a century ago.The Bukit Larut Rest House serves local and western cuisine.
Practical Tips It is advisable to bring along rain gear as it rains quite regularly in Taiping.
Contact Bukit Larut Recreational Area Office (Pejabat Tempat Peranginan Bukit Larut) Bukit Larut
34000 Taiping Perak Tel
:
05-8077 241/3
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Bukit Larut
Enchanting
Penang Hill
Across the Straits of Malacca, you will find Penang Hill located on the island of Penang. Here you can ride on the funicular
railway, explore enchanting nature trails, walk among 30-metre high trees, and glory in the gorgeous views of the island.
Situated about 800m above sea level on the northern part of
the island, Malaysia’s oldest hill resort has much to offer in the way of its cool unpolluted air, historical heritage and environmental significance.
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Cool Highland Resorts
At the foot of the hill is the Penang Hill Railway, one of the world's oldest funicular systems. Built in 1897, but commissioned only in 1923, the railway has a track of about 2,007m ascending to a height of 710m above sea level.The pleasant ride up takes about 30 minutes with passengers having to change trains midway. On the way up, look out for the various residences dotting the hill, the lush vegetation and occasional Macaque monkeys. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of Penang Island. On a clear sunny day, the entire eastern half of the island and the mainland as well as the Straits of Malacca are visible. At the summit, a food court, fruit and souvenir stalls as well as a hotel can be found.The original funicular train is also on exhibit here.
19 Penang Hill
Several private bungalows dot Penang Hill. Most of these Victorian-style buildings have stood the test of time because of the hardy materials used in their construction. Among these, stands the hill’s oldest bungalow, ‘Bel Retiro’, the holiday residence of the Governor of Penang. Many of the hill’s bungalows that were once open to the public, are now privately owned and are thus not accessible to outsiders anymore. The Bellevue Hotel, the only remaining hotel on the hill, offers magnificent views of the island and its restaurant is quite popular among locals. The hotel’s Aviary Garden boasts a unique collection of pheasants, pea fowls, crowned pigeons, parrots, hornbills, macaws, Bali mynahs and Nicobar pigeons. A wide collection of art works by local and regional artists is scattered throughout the hotel.
Two kilometres away lies the Canopy Walk. It is supported by towering tree trunks all along its 220-metre walkway. You are literally walking among the trees as you traverse the length of the canopy walk some 30m high in the air. Penang Hill also offers visitors various nature trails. The Penang Hill Forest Challenge trail comprising the jeep track and forest trail, begins from the Upper Station and ends at the Telok Bahang Recreation Park. The entire 11.3-kilometre route takes about six hours to complete. If you fancy a cuppa, head for David Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terraces on Strawberry Hill. Savour delectable English cuisine as well as a selection of Penang specialities as you enjoy the old-world ambience.This charming restaurant is set in idyllic surroundings and is located about 30m from the upper station.
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Cool Highland Resorts
The Ride to the Top
Penang Hill Railway Schedule • Departures from the Lower Station:
•
Sun - Fri : 6.30am, 6.45am (during holidays), 7.00am and thereafter every half an hour until 9.00pm Sat : 6.30am, 6.45am, 7.00am and thereafter every half an hour until 11.30pm Departures from the Upper Station:
Sun - Fri : 6.15am, 6.30am (during holidays), 6.45am, 7.00am, 7.15am and thereafter every half an hour until 9.15pm Sat : 6.30am, 6.45am, 7.00am, 7.15am and thereafter every half an hour until 11.15pm Rates • Adults: RM4 (return) • Children under 12 years: RM2 (return)
Bus Services The best time to experience Penang Hill is at night when the island lights up and Penang turns into a dazzling jewel. So, take some time to visit Penang’s myriad attractions. The Kek Lok Si, Asia’s largest Buddhist temple, just a stone’s throw away from the foot of Penang Hill, is a good place to begin. Stroll through the picturesque Botanical Gardens or journey into the past at the many heritage sites in the city. From its spectacular golden beaches to its evergreen hills, from its rich mix of modern and colonial architecture to its sizzling potpourri of tantalising cuisine and enchanting cultures, this Pearl of the Orient is a truly mesmerising tourist destination.
To get there, take buses no. 201, 203 and 204 from the ferry terminal or KOMTAR (bus terminal). If you are taking buses no. 201 and 203, get down at the Air Itam stop. From there, it is just a five minutes' walk to the foot of Penang Hill where you will find the funicular train station. Bus no. 204 will take you directly there.
Practical Tips
The Canopy Walk is not recommended for those who have a fear of heights. For your own safety, you are advised to inform the Forestry Department if you plan to go jungle trekking .You may also want to carry a light jacket or an umbrella as there may be sudden showers at the top of the hill.
Contact Penang State Government Secretariat Office - Penang Hill Train Unit (Pejabat Tempat Peranginan Bukit Larut Unit Keretapi Bukit Bendera) Tel Fax
: :
04-827 4490 04-827 4490
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Penang Hill
Invigorating
BukitTinggi
Just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Hills nestles amidst 16,000 acres of rugged hills surrounded by lush tropical rainforests. Here you will find a unique resort that captures the essence of different cultures of the world in a single destination. In the vicinity are other resorts such as the Selesa Resort and Janda Baik, a resort-cum-residential development.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Be it the picturesque, French-style Colmar Tropicale, a replica of the original 18th century Colmar Village
in Alsace, France, or the Zen inspired Japanese Village, you will relish Berjaya Hills’ interesting
surroundings. Standing some 800m above sea level,
Colmar Tropicale has retained the feel of is European
counterpart in its architecture. Its tastefully decorated rooms are all clustered around Colmar Square, a cobblestone courtyard, where outdoor
dining and street performances take place. Nice
touches like a wishing well, a cuckoo clock tower and a viewing tower add to the French flavour.
A casual stroll along the same courtyard will render more French-style attractions.The La Cignone
restaurant offering authentic French cuisine, the
24-hour coffee house Le Blason with its international buffet, the La Flamme Sidewalk Deli affording pizza and pasta as well as the Le Poulet Roti with its
roasted chicken delights, will definitely whet your
appetite in the cool highland air. On top of this, there are the La Boulengarie bakery, the Le Vin wine and cigar place and the Haagen Dazs ice cream corner to tempt you. The Les Cadeaux French souvenir
shop and La Lavande Creations craft centre complete this pretty picture.The Chateau Spa & Wellness
Resort, a French themed boutique hotel and spa
modelled after an 18th century medieval castle in
France, will join Bukit Tinggi’s charming attractions in the near future.
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Bukit Tinggi
Some 1,000m above sea level is a
painstakingly conceived, environmentally
friendly Japanese Village. The village setting comprises the Japanese Tea House, the Ryo Zan Tei Japanese Restaurant, the
Botanical Gardens,Tatami Spa, Ume Tatami suites and a Japanese souvenir shop.
Here you can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, feed the ‘Koi’
or Japanese carp thriving in the natural
freshwater streams and pools, indulge in a luxuriating hot bath at the Tatami Spa, revel in the serenity of the exclusive
Tatami suites, or stroll through the peaceful Botanical Gardens.The tranquillity and sheer beauty of these settings will
thoroughly invigorate and inspire you.
The undulating terrain of the 18-hole golf course at Berjaya Hills Golf & Country Club, offers one of the most challenging and picturesque golfing experiences in Malaysia.The golf club is equipped with luxuriously furnished suites, golfers’ rooms, a full-fledged sports and
recreational facility, as well as a paintball tag range.The nearby Meranti Park Suites provides additional accommodation. At the resort’s Rabbit Park, there are over 200 furry rabbits,
which you can cuddle and feed. A deer sanctuary, donkey rides, and archery and painting sessions are sure to captivate the children.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Travelling to the top Located 10km off the East-West Karak
Highway, Bukit Tinggi is a mere 60 minutes’ drive from Kuala Lumpur.The turn-off for Berjaya Hills is few kilometres down the
highway after the exit points to Janda Baik and the Selesa Resort. Although there are
some precarious bends, the drive up to the resort is a pleasant one with well-paved
roads. Lush flora and fauna surround the route. Berjaya Hills operates a shuttle
service to ferry passengers between KL
Plaza and Berjaya Times Square in the city, right up to Colmar Tropicale and back.
Contact
One of the highlights of this resort is its horse trail rides. Be it the adventurous Creek and
River Rides or romantic Picnic Rides, a team of certified instructors and professional trainers will help in choosing the right horse and guide you on your trails. Choose from the resort's majestic Quartar horses, Australian stock, Arab-Draft Cross, Appaloosa, tough Standard
Berjaya Hills Bentong, Pahang Tel : 09-288 8888 Fax : 09-288 3018 E-mail : berjayahills@hr.berjaya.com.my Website : www.berjayahills.com.my
Bred or Palominos as you catch the stunning sunset amidst the serene surroundings of Bukit Tinggi.
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Bukit Tinggi
Scenic
Kinabalu Park
On the rainforest-clad island of Borneo, you will find Kinabalu Park, Malaysia's first World Heritage Site and home to
Southeast Asia's tallest peak, Mount Kinabalu. Revel in the
wealth of rare flora and fauna and spectacular waterfalls that seem to cascade from heaven itself. From the giant Rafflesia
flower and many nocturnal creatures, to the spectacular trek
through primordial jungle up misty peaks, and finally above the clouds to catch an awe-inspiring sunrise – this is the one adventure you will never forget.
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Cool Highland Resorts
Kinabalu Park, a scenic two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a popular retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.The park covers a staggering area of 754km2, has four
climatic zones and also one of the richest collections of flora in the world.The majestic Mount Kinabalu is its main attraction.
The KadazanDusun, Sabah’s largest ethnic group, believe that the mountain is the sacred resting ground of the spirits of their ancestors.The
KadazanDusun practise shifting cultivation on the
hill slopes and serve as reliable guides and porters to visitors trekking up Mount Kinabalu.
The gateway to the mountain is the Kinabalu Park Headquarters, situated 1,563m on its southern
boundary. A variety of accommodation, restaurants and an exhibition centre are available here.This is
also where you pay the entrance fee to the park and register if you are an overnight visitor or a climber. Popular attractions here are the Mount Kinabalu
Botanical Garden and the Mountain Garden. After
viewing the slide shows on the park’s rich history and biodiversity, you can explore the gardens on your
own, or join the park’s naturalist on a guided walk.
27
Kinabalu Park
You do not need any real experience in mountain climbing to conquer the
highest peak in Southeast Asia, but it pays to be fit.While the summit of
Mount Kinabalu can be reached in two
days, a three-day climb is less strenuous and allows you more time to indulge in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
However, champion mountain runners at the annual Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon, proclaimed the 'toughest
mountain race in the world', have been known to run up and down the
mountain in under three hours! From Layang Layang, the journey upwards passes the Villosa Shelter and a helipad where you can catch sweeping vistas of the Summit Plateau. Further on, you will come upon the Paka
Cave Shelter where the first explorers slept.You will break journey and spend the night at Laban Rata, which offers climbers hostel accommodation and a restaurant before they resume their climb to the peak.
To reach Low's Peak, the summit,
climbers can either follow the more popular Summit Trail or the newer
Mesilau Trail, which begins at the Mesilau Nature Resort.The former, which begins at the Timpohon Gate and roughly 4.5km from the park's
headquarters, is equipped with clear paths and ropes to help you in
ascending the steep and rocky terrain.
On the four to five-hour climb, you will pass Carson's Falls, three trail shelters
and telecommunications towers before reaching Layang Layang (the Place of
Swallows) at 2,703m above sea level.
Here, the Summit Trail meets the more scenic Mesilau Trail.
After a short night's rest, you need to be ready by 3.00am
in order to catch the sunrise at the peak. It takes about three
hours to reach the peak and there are ladders and ropes to help you over
the steeper terrain. En route, marvel at the rugged landscape of cliffs, gorges, gulleys, plateaus and precipices.
28
Cool Highland Resorts
At 4,095.2m above sea level and in the freezing darkness, you reach the summit of Mount Kinabalu. In an almost sacred
moment, the dawn of a new day unfolds gloriously before you. Following the vigorous descent, unwind at Poring's hot springs, the perfect antidote for tired and aching muscles. Located at Ranau, a short drive from Kinabalu Park, the open air baths
contain hot sulphuric minerals said to have curative properties. The nearby Poring Canopy Walkway provides a close-up view of the giant Menggaris treetops.
Up to the Peak
Kinabalu Park is situated about 90km from the international gateway of Kota Kinabalu. It is
accessible by car, van, coach, four-wheel drive, taxi and even chartered helicopter.There are also regular buses and minibuses plying between Kota Kinabalu and the park.
About five kilometres from the park's main
entrance, you will find the town of Kundasang, home to the local Dusun farmers. Here you will find stalls selling everything from
vegetables to souvenirs and handicraft items.
-
Those who prefer more down-to-earth attractions can trek through the lowland forests, head for the waterfalls, or explore the Tropical Garden where deer rest in their natural
habitat.You may even chance upon the world's largest flower, the exotic Rafflesia. From the Poring Butterfly Farm and the Poring Orchid Conservation Farm, to the lofty Mount Kinabalu Golf Club at Kundasang, there is much to see and do at Kinabalu Park.
Practical Tips All climbers up Mount Kinabalu must engage the services of a registered guide on their climb.You can hire a guide and porter by registering at the park headquarters managed by Sabah Parks. Walk-in bookings at the park are subject to availability, so pre-booking is advisable.
Contact
Sabah Parks 1st Floor, Lot 1-3, Block K Sinsuran Complex P.O. Box 10626 88806 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel : 088-211 881/212 719 Fax : 088-211 001 E-mail : sabahparks@sabah.gov.my Website : www.sabahparks.org.my
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges Lot G15, Ground Floor Wisma Sabah 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel : 088-287 887 Fax : 088-259 552 E-mail : info@suterasanctuarylodges.com Website : www.suterasanctuarylodges.com
29
Kinabalu Park
Useful Contacts Genting Highlands • •
•
•
•
Amber Court Tel : 03-6101 2988 Fax : 03-6101 3535
Awana Genting Highlands Golf & Country Resort Tel : 03-6436 9000 Fax : 03-6101 3535 Website : www.awana.com.my First World Hotel, Genting Hotel, Highlands Hotel, Resort Hotel,Theme Park Hotel, Ria & Kayangan Apartments Tel : 03-2718 1118 Fax : 03-2718 1888 Website : www.genting.com.my Genting View Resort Tel : 03-6100 2260/68 Fax : 03-6100 1016 Website : www.gentingviewresort.com Seri Malaysia Hotel Tel : 03-6100 2525 Fax : 03-6100 1125 Website : www.serimalaysiacom.my
For MICE planners, the Genting International Convention Centre can accommodate up to 6,000 people. For more information, please visit http://mice.genting.com.my.
Cameron Highlands Hotels • Equatorial Tel : Fax : Website : •
• • • • • • •
•
Hotel, Cameron Highlands 05-496 1777 05-496 1333 www.equatorial.com.my
Heritage Hotel, Cameron Highlands Tel : 05-491 3888 Fax : 05-491 5666 Website : www.heritage.com.my Hotel Casa Rosa Tel : 05-491 1333 Fax : 05-491 5500 Hotel Green Garden Tel : 05-496 1824 Fax : 05-491 5824
Hotel Rainbow Tel : 05-491 4628/48 Fax : 05-491 4668 Hotel Rosa Passadena Tel : 05-491 2288 Fax : 05-491 2688 Strawberry Park Hotel Tel : 05-491 1166 Fax : 05-491 1949 The Cool Point Hotel Tel : 05-491 4914 Fax : 05-491 4070
The Lakehouse Tel : 05-495 6152 Fax : 05-495 6213 Website : www.lakehouse-cameron.com The Smokehouse Hotel Tel : 05-491 1215 Fax : 05-491 1214 Website : www.thesmokehouse.com.my
Apartments, Chalet & Lodges • Bala's Holiday Chalet Tel : 05-491 1660 Fax : 05-491 4500 •
Daniel's Travellers Lodge Tel : 05-491 5823 Fax : 05-491 5829
30
Useful Contacts
• • • • • •
Desa Authurium & Carnation Park Apartments Tel : 05-491 1250 Fax : 05-491 2751
Penang Hill
Hillview Inn Tel : 05-491 2915 Fax : 05-491 5212
Bukit Tinggi
Father's Guest House Tel : 05-491 2484
Jurina Hill Lodge Tel : 03-3250 9571 Fax : 03-3250 9560
Shal's Holiday Apartments Tel : 05-491 2408 Fax : 03-8962 3303 Villa Dahlia Apartments Tel : 05-491 5611 Fax : 05-491 5906
Information on other accommodation options at Cameron Highlands can be viewed at www.cameronhighlands.com.
Fraser’s Hill
•
• • •
Bellevue Tel Fax E-mail
Hotel : 04-829 9500 : 04-829 2052 : penbell@tm.net.my
Berjaya Hills Tel : 09-288 8888 Fax : 09-288 3018 Website : www.berjayahills.com.my
Selesa Resort Tel : 03-4042 6033/6931/6932 Fax : 03-4043 6460 E-mail : selesahh@tm.net.my Website : www.selesa.com.my Tanarimba, Janda Baik (c/o Sitrac Corporation Sdn Bhd) Tel : 09-233 0655 Fax : 09-233 0654 Website : www.tanarimba.com.my
Kinabalu Park
Bungalows/Rest Houses • Bank Pertanian Bungalow Tel : 03-2692 2033 Fax : 03-2692 6679
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges manages the following: Central Administrative & Sales Office • Kota Kinabalu (Pacific Sutera Harbour) Tel : 088-303 914/5/6/7 Fax : 088-317 540/310 118
•
•
•
Puncak Inn, Kuantan, Bentong and Chini Tel : 09-362 2201 Fax : 09-362 2273
Fraser’s Hill Federal Rest House (Rumah Peranginan Persekutuan Bukit Fraser) Tel : 03-8888 7587 Fax : 03-8888 3032
Hotels • Jelai Highland Resort Tel : 09-362 2600 Fax : 09-362 2604 •
• •
The Smokehouse Hotel Tel : 09-362 2226 Fax : 09-362 2035 Website : www.thesmokehouse.com.my Shahzan Inn Tel : 09-362 2300 Fax : 09-362 2284 Sri Intan Tel : 09-362 2400 Fax : 09-362 2351
Apartments • Fraser's Pine Resort Tel : 09-362 2122 Fax : 09-362 2288 • •
Peninjau Apartment Tel : 09-366 2500 Fax : 09-362 2352 Silverpark Tel : Fax : Website :
Resort 09-362 2888 09-362 2887 www.fraserssilverpark.com
Bukit Larut
Bungalows/Rest Houses • Sri Angkasa,Tempinis, Gunung Hijau, Beringin, Delima, Dahlia and Bukit Larut Rest House (Rumah Rehat Bukit Larut) Tel : 05-807 7241/243
•
• •
Kinabalu Park Tel : 088-889 086 Fax : 088-889 091 Mesilau Nature Resorts Tel : 088-871 519 Laban Rata Tel : 088-267 402 Fax : 088-267 402
Poring Hot Spring & Nature Reserve Tel : 088-878 801 Fax : 088-878 801
For more information on Sabah, contact:
• •
Sabah Tourism Board Tel : 088-212 121 Fax : 088-212 075 Website : www.sabahtourism.com
Sabah Parks Tel : 088-212 719 Fax : 088-211 001 Website : www.sabahparks.org.my
For nature lovers and trekkers, please contact the relevant authorities in the vicinity to inform them of your interest in going into the forests. It is advisable that you register with them before a hiking or trekking expedition so that your whereabouts can be traced in case of an emergency or if you get lost. The following organisations will also be able to offer help and guidance to ensure you make the most of your trip.
• •
Department of Wildlife and National Parks Tel : 03-9075 2872 Fax : 03-9075 2873 Website : www.wildlife.gov.my Malaysian Nature Society Tel : 03-2287 9422 Fax : 03-2287 8773 Website : www.mns.org.my
Malaysia at a Glance Country The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular Malaysia, which is made up of 11 states, three Federal Territories as well as the states of Sabah and Sarawak situated in Borneo. Capital City The capital city of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur. Geographical Location Located between 2 and 7 degrees north of the Equator, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea.To the north of Peninsular Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak share a common border with Indonesia while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei Darussalam. Area 329,758km2 Population 27 million People Malays make up about 57% of the population and are the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest. Language Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) is the national language but English is widely spoken. Malaysians also speak various languages and dialects. Religion Islam is the official religion but all other religions are practised freely. Government Malaysia practices parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. The Head of State is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister. The country has a bicameral legislative system. Climate Malaysia has a tropical climate and the weather is warm all year round. Temperatures range from 21˚C to 32˚C and the annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
Economic Profile Manufacturing constitutes the largest component of Malaysia’s economy while tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are major contributors to its economy. Entry Requirements Visitors must be in possession of a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended visiting period. Citizens of most countries do not require visas for social or business visits. For further information, please visit or call the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or Tourism Malaysia office. Currency The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit, which is indicated as RM. Foreign currencies can be converted at banks and money changers. Banking Hours In most states, banking hours are from 9.30am to 4.00pm from Monday to Friday. Banks in the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu operate from 9.30am to 4.00pm from Saturday to Wednesday. Post Offices Most post offices are open from 8.00am to 5.00pm daily except on Sundays and public holidays. In Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. Working Days Government offices in all states, with the exception of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, operate on a five-day week from Monday to Friday. Some private establishments are open for half a day on Saturday. Government offices in Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu are open from Sunday to Thursday.They are closed on Friday and Saturday.
Measurement System Malaysia uses the metric system. Telecommunications Malaysia is linked nationally and internationally by telephone, facsimile, telegraph and via the Internet. Most hotels provide International Direct Dial (IDD) telephone services. Getting to Malaysia The main gateway to Malaysia is through the new Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang, which is located approximately 50km south of Kuala Lumpur. Other major international airports that serve as entry points are situated in Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and the island of Langkawi. Malaysia has two Low Cost Carrier Terminals (LCCT), which are situated in Sepang and Kota Kinabalu. Over 40 international airlines fly into the country while the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines, has a global network that spans six continents. It is complemented by the budget airline AirAsia.The main entry point by sea is at Port Klang, about 50km away from Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia is also accessible by rail and road from Singapore and Thailand. Getting Around Malaysia has excellent domestic air links serviced by Malaysia Airlines and low-cost carriers such as AirAsia and Firefly.The country has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system served by buses, taxis as well as trains. Accommodation Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation with competitive rates. International star-rated hotels, beach resorts, chalets, youth hostels and timeshare apartments are just some of the types of accommodation available.
Time The standard Malaysian time is eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of the U.S. Pacific Standard Time. Electricity The voltage used throughout Malaysia is 220-240 volts AC, at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets are used.
31
Malaysia at a Glance
Published by : Tourism Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained herein is correct at the time of publication, Tourism Malaysia shall not be held liable for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies which may occur.
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