For a splashing good time
ESCAPING the daily grind and spending time away from the rat race does not have to cost much.
In fact, for folks in the Klang Valley, the perfect nature getaway may be just around the corner.
Tourism Selangor lists down five of the best (and picturesque) waterfall spots in the state for adventurers and holidaymakers to check out.
1) Sungai Tekala
Tucked away in the district of Hulu Langat, which is roughly 50km away from Kuala Lumpur, is the idyllic Sungai Tekala. Ensconced in lush vegetation and greenery, the river is a paradise for the senses. The breathtaking waterfalls cascade at a gentle angle while the water is clear and shallow. Open to nature seekers since 1982, the Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest is a stretch of lowland dipterocarp forest that is known among locals as the perfect nature hideout. This pristine tropical rainforest forms a part of the Sungai Lalang Forest Reserve, which in turn is part of Taman Warisan Negeri Selangor.
For an overnight trip, you can rent a chalet or pay minimal fees to set up tents at the campsite. The place has facilities like food stalls, a prayer room, washrooms and gazebos.
Entrance fees: RM2 for adults, RM1 for children.
2) Kanching
Home to seven majestic and picture-worthy waterfalls, Kanching rainforest is a rare gem. It is located between Rawang and KL.
Surrounded by mature woods and intensely beautiful green foliage, the impressive seven-tier waterfall proves to be a great place to unwind and recharge after a weary day. Simply kick back and enjoy the exhilaratingly cold waterfalls and reconnect yourself with the rhythm of nature. Concrete steps have been constructed to make it easier for visitors to reach the waterfalls.
This place is actually pretty close to the city, so it does get quite a large number of visitors during the holiday season. It’s a great spot for picnics, camping, swimming and jungle trekking, too.
Along the easy-ish trekking trail, visitors can discover many unique and distinct species of flora. Beware of monkeys, though, as they tend to get quite cheeky especially when they spot any food (do not feed them!).
Entrance fees: RM1 (per person), RM2 (per car for parking).
3) Lata Medang
Lata Medang waterfall is located in Kampung Pertak, Kuala Kubu Baru and is adjacent to the Kampung Orang Asli, which is also worth a visit.
To reach the astounding waterfall, visitors need to hike up a hill, though the trek is rather easy. The trail leading to Lata Medang is sheltered by rich and beautiful greenery, giving the sensation that you are in your own little world.
The waterfall itself is a natural wonder and a testament to Mother
Nature’s marvellous handiwork. The light rays that peek through the surrounding trees and from above the waterfall gives the area an almost ethereal look, enticing visitors to take a dip in the lucid river waters.
Entrance fees: RM1 (per person).
4) Sungai Pisang Waterfall
If you are looking to turn your wanderlust into reality, look no further than Sungai Pisang waterfall, situated along the Karak Highway.
You will need to trek for about an hour (using the Jungle Lodge as a starting point) through a 100-year-old forest before you reach the waterfall, but the terrain is mostly flat.
There will never be a dull moment during the hike up as you will be preoccupied with the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Some hikers even get to experience a natural “fish spa” while crossing the river!
If you’re interested in coming here, do let your friends or family – as well as the local Forestry Department or office – know of your plans.
5) Sungai Chiling
Known as one of the most extraordinary and attractive waterfalls in Selangor, Sungai Chilling is situated within Taman Warisan Negeri Selangor.
To get to the 80m waterfall, visitors need to trek for about an hour through the forest. It is an easy hike overall and hikers will be taken through dense vegetation where there will be plant life like orchids to admire at.
Before arriving at the waterfall, hikers have to cross Sungai Chiling several times. The river crossings are generally pleasant as the water is cool and refreshing.
The Chilling waterfall has a remarkable and powerful shower as it plummets down, hitting the calm river below. You can take a dip in the large natural pool created by the waterfall and be revitalised by its cool waters.
The waterfall and river are a part of the Mahseer Fish Sanctuary and managed by the Selangor Fisheries Department and Selangor Forestry Department.
There are altogether three levels to the Chiling waterfall. However, only the waterfall at the first level is open to the public, while the other two upper levels are off-limits.