Caving in Malaysia

If you are an adventure lover and have already experienced the most popular adventure sports like trekking, scuba diving, rock climbing and white water rafting; then embark on a new adventure called caving. In fact this relatively new adventure sport is now gaining popularity among the adventure junkies. With some of the biggest and longest caves in the world, caving in Malaysia now-a-days is fast becoming a favorite activity among the tourists.

There are a plenty of limestone caves in Malaysia. Some are archaeological sites while others are beautiful with rare mineral deposits like stalagmites and stalactites. The most famous caves of Malaysia are located in Mulu National Park, Sarawak. Designated as a world heritage site since 2001, this park is home to the Niah Caves. A 40,000 year old human skull has been found in the cave and rock paintings which date back to 1200 years also form the main attraction of this cave. If you are planning for caving in Malaysia, do visit this cave.

Caves are generally very claustrophobic. You can hardly stand straight in them. Defying this reality, the Sarawak Chamber, which is housed inside the Gua Nasib Bagus cave, is the largest in the world. Stretching along 110 km, the Clearwater Cave is the 10th longest in the world.

Some of the caves are sightseeing places. The Gomantong Caves in Sabah for example are well known for their birds’ nest industry. The local people collect these nests using bamboo ladders and poles. This is a great thing to behold.

If you are a treasure hunter, you should then explore the Gua Ikan cave on the Gunung Stong Mountain. This cave is believed to have been hiding the treasure looted by the Japanese Imperial Army during their occupation of Malaysia. This fish shaped cave is ideal for caving in Malaysia.

There are some caves that are fitted with electric bulbs. Gua Tempurung is one such cave. This cave with artificial walkways is much visited by the tourists. The cave has a fine river passage and some wide upper chambers.

Dark cave is another most frequented caving venue in Malaysia. Rich in cave fauna, this cave can be explored on guided tours. There are however other caves in the vicinity but you should plunge into them only if you are properly equipped.

If you are planning for caving in Malaysia, never try to explore a cave alone. Make sure that you have sufficient light sources. Before venturing into a non-tourist cave, always be accompanied by professional cavers.

Accommodation in Malaysia
Accommodation in Malacca	Accommodation in Miri
Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur	Accommodation in Penang
Accommodation in Tioman Island	Accommodation in Bukit Tinggi