Joanna James
As you make your way along the streets and past the malls that make up Kuala Lumpur, it would be easy to feel overwhelmed. However, do make time for these nature getaways.
Filled with verdant stretches and pathways and nestled southwest of the city centre, Taman Rimba Bukit Kerinchi is an outstanding escape that will serve all those globetrotters who wish to be well away from the scorching sun. Better yet, avid birdwatchers and those who take pride in some early morning yoga and exercise will find ample reason to while away the hours here. Aside from housing species in the likes of the Stork-billed Kingfisher, visitors will also be presented with opportunities to pitch camp and enjoy some camping or partake in a barbecue with those who matter the most to them.
Showcasing serene environs and giving off the scents of the sea in no uncertain manner is Sekinchan in the state of Selangor. Easily reachable after a 90-minute drive, Sekinchan’s natural setting is easy on the eye where one will discover lush green paddy fields no sooner you enter town. While Sekinchan will afford mesmeric backdrops against where you may strike that perfect pose, vacationers will be encouraged to sample traditional cuisine from any of the Teochew restaurants that are sprinkled here. In fact, favourites such as crab, squid and clay pot yellow eel are absolute ‘musts’ when in this part of the country.
Be awed by countless colonies of fireflies as these species take centre stage at the alluring Kampung Kuantan Fireflies Park which is all but an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur. In fact, scheduling a trip so that you arrive no sooner than the clock strikes 7.30 pm will be beneficial as this is when these creatures come out and put on one wonderful show. Ride the waters of the Selangor River in a flat-bottomed wooden boat as you move through mangroves where you will be treated to a jaw-dropping glow unlike any other.
Found well away from the ways of the city and KL’s hustle and bustle, Awanmulan will thrill you to bits where dense jungles mix and mingle with towering mountains which stretch out far into the horizon. Featuring a collection of homely dwellings that are perfect for some quality time with the family, an outing with your closest friends, an escape with your better half or even a solo trip; Awanmulan’s welcoming embrace will grow warmer the longer you linger on. Feel the cool breeze wash over your skin, take a dip in the pool or settle down to gaze at a starlit sky while nature’s sweet melodies attempt to lull you to sleep.
Regarded as the oldest as well as the longest quartz formation the world has come to know of, Klang Gates Quartz Ridge is dubbed the “Dragon’s Backbone.” This is because it plays host to a 14km long ridge that will test the resolve of even the most experienced of hikers. Replete with sharp rocks, narrow paths and dizzying climbs, Klang Gates Quartz Ridge will ensure that you have on your sturdiest pair of hiking boots or walking shoes for the entirety of the duration. If planning to arrive here from KL which is separated by a mere 20-minute drive, travellers seeking to add value to their stays can opt to reside at Citadines Prai Penang which offers a good selection of Bukit Mertajam apartments to select from.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
