Danum Valley Conservation Area is One of The World’s Most complex Ecosystem

On a sprawling 438 square kilometer undisturbed land, 70 kilometers (44 miles) west of Lahad Datu, lies nature’s jewel called the Danum Valley Conservation Area. This conservation area boasts one of the richest conservation areas in the world with over 200 species of tree per hectare thriving on it.

Being remote from human habitation and almost alien to modern civilization makes the Danum Valley Conservation Area a naturalist paradise. Drink in the beauty of this virgin forest by taking nature walks with experienced naturalists through tranquil rivervine and lowland dipterocarp forest.

Recognized as one of the world’s most complex ecosystem, this forest serves as a natural home for endangered wildlife species such as the Sumatran rhino, banteng, Asian elephant, clouded leopard, orang utan, proboscis monkey, as well as a vast range of Sabah’s lowland fauna.

Here, visitors also get the chance to visit an ancient Kadazandusun burial site, complete with belian coffins and ceramic spirit jars. Three burial sites have been discovered in Danum Valley—two near the field centre and one below the cliff, overlooking Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Avid birdwatchers will appreciate the 300-meter-long and 27-meter-high canopy walkway which offers a peek into abundant bird life in the forest canopy. The Danum Valley Conservation Area also has beautiful waterfalls and rivers including Sungai Purut 7-tiered pools—one of the most spectacular waterfalls and pools found in Danum Valley Conservation Area.

On the way down, visitors can take a dip in the jacuzzi pool that is leech-free and safe for swimming. Later in the evening, go for a wildlife watching night drive in an open jeep. Depending on luck, wildlife photography enthusiasts will get an excellent opportunity to catch snapshots of the elusive wild inhabitants of the Danum Valley Conservation Area.

Be more enlightened about nature and wildlife by watching an educational video and slide presentations. Those planning extensive wildlife photography are recommended to stay for at least 3 days to have better success at finding wild animals frolicking about.

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The Mountain Torq the World’s Highest and Asia’s first Via Ferrata

Kinabalu Park was gazetted as the first State Park in Sabah in 1964 and declared Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the year 2000 for its outstanding biological attributes. A sprawling 75, 400 hectares, this melting pot of natural wonders is larger than Singapore.
The main attraction at the Park is none other than the majestic Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest mountains in South East Asia standing at 4095.2 metres. Apart from traditional mountain climbing, visitors can also experience the Mountain Torq, the world’s highest and Asia’s first Via Ferrata or ‘iron road’ at 3,200m to 3,800m above sea level. The various routes on the northern rock faces of Mount Kinabalu consist of a ‘trail’ that is made up of iron rungs, palettes, cables and rails. Depending on the preferred difficulty level, visitors can enroll in various activities such as the intro to single pitch or multi pitch sports climbing, intro to rappelling (abseiling) and introduction to rope ascending. Mount Kinabalu attracts thousands of climbers from around world every year and is also the venue of the annual Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon.

Also the Centre of Plant Diversity for South East Asia, the Park boasts more than 5,000 vascular plant species, an estimated 1,000 orchid species, 621 fern species, nine Nepenthes species, 29 Rhododendron species and two Rafflesia species. The Park has no shortage of fauna as well, being home to some 90 lowland mammal species, 22 montane mammal species, 21 bat species, 326 bird species, 62 toad and frog species and a large population of the 850 butterfly species that occur in Sabah. Out of the 29 bird species that are endemic to Borneo, at least 17 are confined to the mountains, notably Mount Kinabalu. These include subspecies of the Red breasted Tree-partridge, Crimson-headed Wood-partridge and Mountain Blackbird. Such diversity is truly the makings of a naturalists’ paradise!

Surrounding the Kinabalu Park is a multitude of natural attractions and enjoyable activities. The Kinabalu Natural History Gallery is a great place to familiarize with what the Park has to offer to through a fascinating exhibition on the flora, fauna and geological make-up of the Park. Video presentations are screened daily at the Liwagu’s Visitors Centre and guided tours are also available. Approximately half an hour from the Kinabalu Park headquarters is the Poring Hot Springs, located 400m above sea level. It features hot sulphur spring baths claimed to have therapeutic values, a 41-metre canopy walk where visitors can hike among the towering canopies, the refreshing Kipungit and Langanan waterfalls, various gardens, a butterfly farm and an orchid conservation centre. In Mesilau, hike along the acclaimed Mesilau trail where you can spot various pitcher plants particularly the Nepenthes lowii, Nepenthes tentaculata and Nepenthes rajah.

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Turn your world upside down - Upside Down House

Rumah Terbalik (Upside Down House)

Turn your world upside down when you visit this unique house in Tamparuli – literally! The ‘Rumah Terbalik’ (which translates to Upside Down House) is the first of its kind in South East Asia and among the five upside-down structures in the world (3 are found in Europe and another in Japan).
This architectural wonder has also been included in the Malaysia Book of Records for being the first of its kind in the nation. Visitors can enjoy a meal or afternoon snack at the Rumah Terbalik Café or pick up a souvenir at the Gift Shop. Guided tours are available.

The house was opened to the public in early February 2012 and has since been attracting visitors from near and far. The house itself is hard to miss, having been flipped upside down, with its floor facing skyward. Everything inside the house, from furniture to household appliances, hover above your head, as the ceiling is actually the floor.

 

Visitors will notice some distinguishing Sabahan décor and features showcased in this house. In the garage, a car is parked upside down. It might seem disorienting in the first few seconds, but the fascination of it all takes over. 

The house is located along Mile 21, Jalan Telibong, Tamparuli. The journey by road takes approximately 40 minutes. Taxis can take you from the city centre but be sure to make return arrangements as taxis on standby may not be readily available at this location.

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Explore the untouched forest of Tawau's Bukit Gemok

Strap on those hiking shoes and get ready to explore the untouched forest of Tawau's Bukit Gemok. Situated 10 km from the city centre, Bukit Gemok (Gemok Hill) has recently become a popular spot for avid trekkers and Hash runners who love the challenge of varied terrain. Bukit Gemok is approximately 428 metres above sea level and is part of the Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve, covering 445 hectares.

The hike begins with an easy trail of concrete stairs which eventually ‘disappear' and make way for natural ground. The uphill walk is fairly challenging, particularly for beginners. Watch out for rocks, bulging tree roots and the like. Some parts get steeper and more demanding, but the beautiful natural surroundings make it all worthwhile.

At 231 metres long, it is deemed one of the longest canopy walkways in Sabah. Your ‘struggle' to the top will be worthwhile once you get a glimpse of the breathtaking view of Tawau from this high up. The stunning scenery spans the town centre, the picturesque coastline and its surrounding areas. The trek down Bukit Gemok should take a shorter time, but be warned that the trail becomes muddy and slippery during the rainy season, so exercise extra caution.

The forest reserve was developed in the early 1990s and is now equipped with basic facilities such as washrooms and rest huts along the trail. Any land vehicle can be used to get to Bukit Gemok. Just be sure to dress comfortably, drink plenty of fluids and get ready to soak in the majesty of the lush greenery along the trails of Bukit Gemok.

Along the way there is so much to marvel at, such as the giant trees that seem to stretch endlessly to the sky and the elusive creatures that scurry about. There are seven huts along the way for walkers to rest and relax. After hiking for about an hour (depending on your fitness level), you will arrive at the Titian Selara canopy walkway.

A taxi ride from Tawau town will cost around RM30.00 (one way). It is recommended that you make returns arrangement with your taxi driver. Public transport is not readily available in this area.

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Fish Massage

Fancy something more unique than your average spa? Then head on to Kampung Luanti, Ranau for a fish massaging session!

Located in Kampung Luanti, Ranau, 131 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu (2 hours and 40 minutes drive away); this fish massage ‘spa’ is managed by the Kampung Luanti JKK and lead by Mr. Jeffrin Majangki.

The fish massage is deemed to have a curative effect on those who suffers from psoriasis. Come to Kampung Luanti for regular fish massages and you will enjoy smoother and suppler skin - just like a baby’s bottom.

If the idea of fishes nibbling off your dead skin doesn’t thrill you, try other activities such as jungle trekking and camping. Should you intend to stay longer, Kampung Luanti is also equipped with a homestay programme to make visitors feel at home every time.

In the Local KadazanDusun dialect, ‘tagal’ means ‘no fishing’, and the main purpose of the ‘tagal’ is to preserve the environment as well as the ecosystem to benefit the future generation. ‘Ikan Pelian’ or Malaysian Mahseer comes from the family of Cyprinidae. These fishes are specifically trained by the villagers to perform the healing massage activities.

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Lost World of Sabah Maliau Basin

The Maliau Basin is a place set on a sprawling 588.4 square kilometers land in Tawau, at the South Central Part of Sabah.

It contains an unusual assemblage of 12 forest types, comprising mainly of lower montane forest dominated by majestic Agathis trees, rare montane heath forest and lowland, and hill diperocarp forest. The highlight of the adventure is to trek the majestic 7 tiers Maliau Falls.

Keen visitors must, however, obtain a permission to enter the Maliau Basin in advance from Yayasan Sabah. Also bear in mind that Maliau Basin is a remote, atavistic and isolated area with limited access, communications and safety facilities.
Trips to the Maliau Basin are best done in large groups. A 5-day, 4-night stay at Maliau Basin costs RM2730 nett for 2 pax adults (Malaysian) and RM3610 nett (non-Malaysian). For a group of 8 to 12 people, the rate for adults is RM1450 nett (Malaysian) and RM2270 (non-Malaysian).

Nature explorers will simply love the Maliau Basin as it is an excellent site for jungle trekking and bird watching. At night, visitors may also take a night drive for wildlife spotting. Water babies can also take a dip in the beautiful waterfall.

Journey from both Tawau and Keningau to the Security Gate of Maliau Basin Conservation takes 5 hours; the distance from Tawau to Maliau Basin Conservation Security Gate is 190 kilometers.

Flying is another fabulous option should you have extra allocations for this luxury. There are several helipads available which can be used for emergency evacuations or by visitors who prefer to fly rather than walk.

Maliau Basin Conservation Area is reachable by road either via Tawau or Keningau. The journey is on four wheel drive and depends so much on the weather as most of the journey is on logging roads to reach the Maliau Basin Security Gate. 

Information:
Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd (KPL/LN 3719)
Block D, Lot 10, Ground Floor,
Sadong Jaya Complex,
88100 Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah, Malaysia

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Chinatown in Kuala Terengganu

Chinatown in Kuala Terengganu is first established by the Chinese community in the late 19th century. It was once a hub for commercial activities that help shaped Kuala Terengganu into what it is today. The Chinese built the traditionally designed shop houses according to their place of origin in Mainland China. The buildings have been declared a heritage site by the United Nation’s UNESCO under its World Monument Watch Programme to ensure beautification and preservation of this pre-colonial heritage significant.

The Chinese have been living harmoniously with the majority Malays in the state. They blend with the local culture and heritage, speak fluent local dialect and share the likings of traditional delicacies while retaining their identity. Souvenir shops, restaurants, electronic and grocery shops lined the colourful buildings. It is also home to two grand temple ortoapekongs, the Ho Ann Kiong and the Tien Hou Kong.

Chinatown is located within walking distance from Pasar Payang (Central Market) in the commercial hub of Kuala Terengganu Heritage Waterfront City. Most tour packages include Chinatown in their itinerary. Few hotels are within walking distance while others need transportation. The Heritage Town Bus which plies from Taman Shahbandar stops next to Hotel Seri Malaysia Kuala Terengganu near the arch entrance of Chinatown. Car rentals and taxi services are within reach from most hotels in Kuala Terengganu.

Visits to Kg. China are a must when you are in Kuala Terengganu. Try spending time walking along the streets. Feel the atmosphere, the distant chatter that fills the air with pungent smell of spices and appreciates the colourful and eclectic architecture with each motif articulates the houseowner’s hopes for longevity, abundance, good luck and offspring.
How To Get Here

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The Floating Mosque Terengganu

An awe-inspiring design with picturesque surroundings, you must not miss the opportunity to visit one of the famous landmark in Kuala Terengganu. The masjid is situated on a 5-acre of reclaimed land in Kuala Ibai, with its foundation built in the lagoon of Sungai Ibai. During high tide, the water rises covering the foundation creating illusions of a floating masjid.

The masjid is located in Teluk Ibai along Jalan Sultan Mahmud, just over 4km south of Kuala Terengganu city centre. With supporting recreational park, jogging tracks, playground, rest rooms, gazebos, food and souvenir stalls, it surely entice visitors either using rented vehicles or the heritage town bus that plies the route from the city centre.

Combining both modern and Moorish architecture design, the masjid symbolizes the innovation and modernization in the state. The Floating Masjid was named after the late Sultan Mahmud’s mother, Tuanku Intan Zaharah binti Almarhum Tengku Seri Setia Raja. The ideal time to visit this mosque is in the evening, when the evening sun shines on the masjid, turning the building into golden colour while the cooling breeze blow from the South China sea. Its surrounding serene landscapes, also draws a great number of visitors to Terengganu who take the opportunity to perform their prayers and take a breather from their journey at this masjid. The design of the masjid reflects a subtle Islamic influence combined with local features, incorporating the use of marble, ceramics, mosaic works and bomanite paving. Constructed with a lake surrounding it, much like a moat, the masjid is popularly referred to as the Floating Masjid. With the backdrop of the open South China Sea, this masjid is an irresistible attraction to visitors in Terengganu.
How To Get There

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Perhentian Island Terengganu

Located 10 nautical miles from the coasts of Terengganu, visitors disembarks from Kuala Besut jetty, for a half and hour speedboat journey to the island. The jetty is just a scenic two hours journey up north from Kuala Terengganu. Pulau Perhentian is actually a group of islands comprises of Pulau Perhentian Besar, Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Serenggeh, Pulau Susu Dara Besar and Pulau Susu Dara Kecil.

The Pulau Perhentian islands offer an amazing snorkeling experience in crystal clear waters. Spectacular marine lives and diverse species of hard and soft corals in the clear, aquamarine waters will definitely thrill snorkelers and divers. Here, manta rays, reef sharks, barracudas and turtles roam freely in their natural habitat, un-amazed to the flashing lights of the diver’s underwater camera. For the less adventurous, the beaches are an ideal location just to laze around and do practically nothing.

There are regular and daily flights from Kuala Lumpur by Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia or Firefly. Journey from Kuala Terengganu airport takes 1 ½ hours driving. Taxis and car rentals are available at Kuala Terengganu Airport. Similarly those on flight arrivals from Kota Bharu Airport can arrange for an airport taxi or car rental to Kuala Besut which takes only 1 hour.

Those travelling by train from Kuala Lumpur should stop at either Tanah Merah or Wakaf Baru Train Terminal in bordering State of Kelantan. There are taxi services to Kuala Besut which takes around 1 hour.

Leisure driving from Kuala Terengganu through coastal road takes around 1 ½ hours to Kuala Besut. Situated 120 km north of Kuala Terengganu, the coastal road offers greeneries and beaches along the way. There are ample parking spaces at reasonable fees. Resort and travel agent offices are available at the jetty.

There are bus services available from most major cities and towns in Peninsular Malaysia. Bus service from Kuala Lumpur takes 6-7 hours to reach Kuala Besut. Kuala Besut jetty is the entry point to Pulau Perhentian. Perhentian Island can be reached in 20 minutes by speed boat which costs RM70.00 per person return. There are a number of low budget hotels for those who plan to stay overnight in Kuala Besut or in case of bad weather conditions.

Nearby Perhentian Island Terengganu
Arwana Perhentian Resort
Bubu Long Beach
Coral Bay Chalet
Panorama Chalet
Perhentian Island Resort
Tuna Bay Island Resort
Santai Restaurant
Coral Bay Restaurant
Panorama Chalet Restaurant
Perhentian Resort Island Restaurant
Tuna Bay Island Resort Restaurant

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Air Terjun Lata Tembakah Jertih Terengganu

Air Terjun Lata Tembakah, a 7-tiered waterfall that flows majestically through the rainforest. Its thunderous sound alone has a soothing effect on weary visitors. Visitors could climb to the highest cascading water for a splendid sight. Ample parking spaces, food stalls, wooden walkways, jungle treks, gazebos, chalets and camping ground are some of the facilities that will entice visitors to stay for a night or two.

Air Terjun Lata Tembakah, 20 minutes drive from Jertih town or 130 km drive up north from Kuala Terengganu, Lata Tembakah is attracts locals as well as foreign tourists especially during weekends and school holidays. There are facilities such as chalet, rest house, camping grounds, changing rooms, gazebos, toilets, stalls and prayer rooms for the visitors’ convenience and park can also be found here.

The Recreational Forest is 25km from Pekan Seri Langkap and is reachable using Seri Langkap town and Lata Payung route. Self drive cars from Kuala Terengganu should take the trunk road to Kota Bharu. Ample signage along the way makes it easier even for first time visitors. From Jertih town, it is another 20 km away. There are local taxis which depart from Jertih or Kuala Besut town that are able to take visitors to Lata Tembakah.

Nearby
La Hot Spring Recreational Park Chalet
D'Pinggiran Gunung Tebu Resort
Hotel Nan
Hotel Belian
Hotel Nazlin
Hotel Hoover
Gemilang Restaurant
Mastura Jabi Satay
Sakura Restaurant
Medic Inn Restaurant
Sun Tee Restaurant

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The La Hot Spring Besut Terengganu

The La Hot Spring is a natural hot water pool originates from deep under the ground and seeps through cracks creating a pool with a temperature ranging from 45-49 degrees Celsius. The therapeutic sulphuric hot water provides ailment to the skin. There are man-made hot water pools, toilets, chalets, stalls, camping ground and parking areas provided for visitors’ convenient.

Near the La Hot Spring is a scenic spot, Lata Berangin, where water falls majestically down a 50-metre rocky surface into a pond. Other places of interest include Batu Katak (Frog Rock), Gua Kelawar (Bat's Hill) and Kolam Puteri (Princess Pool).

To get to Kampung La, drive to Jertih, about 100 Km north from Kuala Terengganu. There are signages from Jertih, drive about 30 Km towards Kampung La. The hot springs is 9 kms from the village.

Situated in Kampung La, in the District of Besut, 140km north of Kuala Terengganu, it is the gateway to the Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve that entice visitors to explore its diverse flora and fauna, rock tunnels, streams and rivers. The more adventurous go abseiling, trek along jungle paths, caving as well as camping. Under a 20-metre high rock called Batu Bahtera (Ship Rock) is a 15m “secret” passage. Crawl under the rock and you’ll get to the other side. Continue walking another 20 minutes and you’ll come to Sungai Misteri, named after a natural occurrence where water disappears mysteriously into a large hole near Sungai Ping.

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Masjid Beijing Kelantan

Masjid ini juga dikenali sebagai Masjid Jubli Perak Sultan Ismail Petra dan merupakan masjid pertama berkonsepkan cina di negeri ini. Ia mempunyai reka bentuk yang unik yang menggabungkan arkitek cina dan islam yang menyamai Masjid Neujie di Beijing yang berusia lebih 1000 tahun. Ciri-ciri masjid ini menyentuh konsep kaum India dan Uzbekistan yang mana turut dimasukkan ke dalam reka bentuk dalaman masjid ini.

Selain itu, masjid ini mempunyai dua tingkat yang utama, bahagian pertama terletak di bahagian bawah masjid dengan adanya kemudahan seperti dewan, perpustakaan, taman permainan kanak-kanak dan bazaar. Sementara tingkat kedua merupakan dewan solat utama dan bilik VIP.

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Air Terjun Jelawang Dabong Kelantan

Gunung Stong terletak di Hutan Simpan Dabong, Kelantan. Gunung Stong menyediakan hutan yang menarik dan mengasyikkan yang penuh dengan khazanah alam dan hidupan liar. Ketinggian Gunung Stong ialah 1433 meter. Gunung Stong menempatkan salah satu air terjun yang merupakan kelima dalam senarai 10 tempat yang menarik dan tertinggi untuk eko-tourism di Malaysia. Gunung Stong memang tersohor dengan Air Terjun Jelawang yang tingginya 305 meter dan tidak mustahillah air terjun ini merupakan tertinggi di Asia Tenggara.

Antara panorama-panorama yang menarik sekitar Gunung Stong ialah Gunung Ayam yang terletak bersebelahan Gunung Stong di Hutan Simpan Dabong. Suasana dalam hutan ini sungguh mengasyikkan dengan kicauan burung dan unggas-unggas tetapi ia juga merupakan habitat bagi haiwan liar. Ketinggian Gunung Ayam ialah 1504 meter iaitu 70 meter lebih tinggi dari Gunung Stong. Sekiranya perjalanan untuk menawan puncak Gunung Stong memakan masa selama 3-4 jam, Gunung Ayam pula memerlukan masa tambahan sebanyak 4-5 jam untuk sampai ke puncak. Namun untuk menempuhi perjalanan seharian ia memakan masa sekurang-kurangnya 9 jam.

Pendakian ke puncak Gunung Ayam penuh dengan cabaran. Ia memerlukan kesihatan fizikal dan mental yang baik. Jalan-jalan yang harus ditempuhi penuh dengan ranjau yang menggugat kesabaran, namun pendaki-pendaki akan disajikan dengan udara sejuk yang nyaman dan segar. Sekiranya anda ingin berkhemah di puncak Gunung Ayam, jangan lepaskan peluang menikmati keindahan panorama matahari terbit yang membelah langit biru yang dipenuhi dengan gumpalan-gumpalan awan. Setelah penat pendakian yang ditempuhi, akan sampai ke air terjun Gunung Stong untuk menikmati airnya yang sejuk dan dapat menghilangkan kepenatan.

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Air Terjun Kuala Koh Gua Musang

Terletak kra-kira 290 km dari Kuala Lumpur dan 185 km dari Kota Bharu. Perjalanan sejauh 90 km dari Gua Musang yang mengambil masa selama 1½ jam. Pintu masuk taman ini berada di Persimpangan Aring melalui Jalan Gua Musang-Kota Bharu. Dari sini, perjalanan sejauh 45 km melalui jalan berturap.

Terdapat juga beberapa buah chalet dan restoran yang menawarkan harga yang rendah. Khidmat pemandu pelancong yang bertauliah boleh didapati dari syarikat pelancongan di Pekan Gua Musang. Di sini juga boleh menyewa kenderaan untuk ke Kuala Koh. Para peminat burung akan berpeluang melihat pelbagai spesis burung liar yang terdapat di persekitaran hutan Kuala Koh. Bagi kaki pancing, tentu sekali ingin menduga kebolehan memancing di sungai-sungai yang ada. Hutan tropika yang kaya dengan flora dan fauna memberikan peluang terbaik bagi peminat seni fotografi untuk mengabadikan hutan ini dalam karya seni. Terdapat berbagai aktiviti yang boleh dijalankan di sungai di sekitar Kuala Koh seperti berkayak, mengayuh rakit buluh dan rakit gelembung. Pengunjung yang berminat menyertai aktiviti ini boleh mendapatkan maklumat lanjut dengan menghubungi Jabatan Perhilitan dan Taman Negara di Kuala Koh. Selain itu, sebuah jambatan gantung telah siap dibina berhampiran Kuala Koh memberikan peluang kepada para pengunjungnya untuk menyaksikan keajaiban hutan hujan tropika yang menyimpan sejuta rahsia.

Taman ini telah mencatatkan 286 spesies mamalia dan 479 spesies burung. Terdapat 495 spesies ikan dan 512 spesies herpetofauna yang dikenalpasti di Taman Negara ini. Usia Taman Negeri Kelantan ini ialah lebih dari 130 juta tahun dan mempunyai kepelbagaian eko-sistem.

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Mount Stong International Climbathon 2013

Mount Stong International Climbathon 2013 with Cash prizes worth of RM 39,000.00
Mount Stong International Climbathon 2013 is one of the rare adventure sports held at the state level. It can help promote and enliven the Mount Stong promotion of Kelantan.

Mount Stong Climbathon 2013 isorganized to promote Kelantan to the world as Stong Hill is one of places available in the State with the beauty of the highest cascading waterfall in Southeast Asia.

Stong Hill is located in Dabong's Forest, Kelantan. Stong Hill provide an interesting and compelling forest full of natural treasures and wildlife. Stong's height is 1433 meters. Stong's waterfall houses one of which is the fifth in the list of the 10 highest places of interest and eco-tourism in Malaysia. It was distinguished by high waterfall Jelawang a round 305 meters, the highest waterfall in Southeast Asia.

One of panorama around Mount Stong is Mount Ayam adjacent Mount Stong Forest Reserve Dabong. The atmosphere in this forest is so compelling to the chirping of birds-birds, but it is also a habitat for wild animals. Mount Ayam's height is 1504 meter which is 70 meters higher than Mount Stong. If the journey to conquer the summit of Mount Stong takes about 3-4 hours, Mount Ayam in turn, requires additional time of 4-5 hours to reach the summit. But to cope with a day trip it takes at least 9 hours.

The climb to the summit of Mount Ayam filled with challenges. It requires physical and mental health. The roads to be encountered, full of twists, but climbers will be served with a comfortable cool air and fresh. If you want to camp at the summit of Mount Ayam, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic view of the rising sun breaking through the blue sky filled with lumps of clouds. Encountered after a long climb, going up to Mount Stong waterfall to enjoy the cool water.

With this program indirectly it can introduce interesting places and unique culture of Kelantan to local and foreign tourists. Inbound tourism will help local people's economy in the tourism industry such as homestay and small businesses.

Mount Stong International Climbathon 2013 will be held on June 22, 2013 (Saturday) at Stong Hill, Jelawang, Dabong, Kelantan.

Mount Stong International Climbathon 2013

• Open to all individuals.
• Each participant must be fully responsible of their participation from start till the end of race. The organizer has absolute right and discretion to terminate any participant to start or continue the race, if the participant fails to follow the rules and regulation, or this race may cause harm and injury to participants. All decisions made by the organizer are final.
• Participant who has physical/mental health problem must consult and get the approval of doctor/family members before the race.
• Participants must ensure to have a good rest and drink a lot of water before the race.
• If there occurs any troubles regarding physical health problem during the race, participant is strongly advised to stop and immediately get helps/treatment from the race crews along the race route.
• Participant must use approriate tools/shoes for the race.
• The Organizer will held a race briefing one day before the race.
• The given bib number must be shown  in front of the shirt at all time during the race.
• Each participant must use the race route which has been decided by the organizer.
• The organizer has full right to modify or make changes any rules and regulations. Any participant who FAIL  to fulfill all rules and regulations decided by the organizer will cause his/her participation to be terminated or automatically Forfeit.
• The organizer will provide stage one medical/emergency aid/services during the race.
• Water station will be provided during the race.
• The organizer will always communicate with the technical crews who available along the race route.
• Any participant who unable to continue the race will be disqualified.
• The organizer has full absolute right in determining the termination of participation to any participant for safety and health reasons or to whom FAIL to fulfill rules and regulations.
• All decisions are final.

Prize Money

1. International Men's Open ( 19 years & above )
Winner : RM 1600
Second : RM 1300
Third : RM 1000
Forth : RM 800
Fifth : RM 600
Sixth - Tenth : RM 300

2. International Women's Open ( 19 years & above )
Winner : RM 1600
Second : RM 1300
Third : RM 1000
Forth : RM 800
Fifth : RM 600
Sixth - Tenth : RM 300


3. Malaysian Men's Open ( 19 years & above )
Winner : RM 1500
Second : RM 1300
Third : RM 1000
Forth : RM 800
Fifth : RM 600
Sixth : RM 500
Seventh : RM 400
Eighth : RM 300
Ninth : RM 200
Tenth : RM 200
Eleventh-Twentieth : RM 100

4. Malaysian Women's Open ( 19 years & above )
Winner : RM 1500
Second : RM 1300
Third : RM 1000
Forth : RM 800
Fifth : RM 600
Sixth : RM 500
Seventh : RM 400
Eighth : RM 300
Ninth : RM 200
Tenth : RM 200
Eleventh-Twentieth : RM 100

5. Malaysian Men's Veteran ( 40 years & above )
Winner : RM 1000
Second : RM 800
Third : RM 600
Forth : RM 500
Fifth : RM 400
Sixth-Tenth : RM 200
Eleventh-Fifteenth : RM 100

6. Malaysian Men's Teen ( 13 - 18 years )
Winner : RM 600
Second : RM 500
Third : RM 400
Forth : RM 300
Fifth : RM 200
Sixth-Tenth : RM 100

7. Malaysian Women's Teen ( 13 - 18 years )
Winner : RM 600
Second : RM 500
Third : RM 400
Forth : RM 300
Fifth : RM 200
Sixth-Tenth : RM 100

Direction

Previously access was only by train (completed in 1934) and riverboat, but by the early and mid-1980s, the completion of the East West Highway and the Kuala Lumpur - Gua Musang - Kota Bharu Highway greatly improved accessibility, making Stong Hill less isolated. Stong Hill can also be approached from Kuala Krai, where through the Kuala Krai - Gua Musang Highway, one makes a right turn after Laloh, and from there, proceed through Sungai Sam. The recently completed Dabong bridge has also made it possible for motorists to cross the Sungai Galas when previously, a boat ride was needed.

Stong Hill is accessible by local and express trains, from Kota Bharu (Wakaf Baru), Gua Musang, Gemas, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. The train is a popular mode of transport for hikers from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and backpackers from Kota Bharu, who take the 10.30 am Wakaf Bharu - Dabong shuttle

More info at http://www.stongchallenge.kelantan.gov.my

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Pesta Wau Antarabangsa Kelantan 2013

Kerajaan Negeri Kelantan melalui Pusat Penerangan Pelancongan Negeri Kelantan (TIC) dengan kerjasama Majlis Daerah Tumpat, Persatuan Pelayang Negeri Kelantan dan Majlis Pelayang Malaysia akan mengadakan Pesta Wau Antarabangsa Kelantan 2013. Program yang diadakan untuk kali ke-31 ini bermula 29 Mei sehingga 1 Jun 2013 bertempat di Pantai Geting, Tumpat, Kelantan.

Dijemput semua untuk sama-sama memeriahkan lagi acara ini. Pelbagai wau-wau menarik menanti anda. Masuk adalah percuma, jom kita beramai-ramai ke Pantai Geting.

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