The exhilaration of speed using solely human power on a machine, and on a raw trail amidst open nature, can only be achieved by mountain biking. With its innumerable jungle and rural trails all over the country, Malaysia is truly a
mountain bikers’ paradise.
Mountain biking has long been a popular sport in Malaysia, with its own legendary trails and stories. It is said that ever since bicycles were introduced into the land, the inland villagers who embraced it were the first mountain bikers
– having to traverse the challenging trails to and from their remote settlements. Today, the challenge is still there, but it is one of adventure and discovery.
Malaysia has both road and off-road biking routes. There are many cycle-friendly road routes around Malaysia. Traffic is normally less heavy along rural roads and the views are stupendous.
Around Kuala Lumpur, these routes are the old Gombak Road, Ulu Yam interior routes and to the south, the Ulu Langat interior via Cheras or Ampang. Beyond Kuala Lumpur there are the rolling hill roads around Seri Menanti and Kuala Pilah in Negeri Sembilan as well as numerous East Coast routes with Sungai Lembing as an accessible site from Kuantan city.
As for Sabah and Sarawak, most rural road areas are scenic and provide ideal routes for adventure biking.
But for the hard core enthusiasts, it is the challenging off-road sites that count. In Kuala Lumpur, the ‘urban legend’ route is the Bukit Kiara jungle trail for its accessibility and easy opportunity of meeting friendly fellow aficionados. Around Kuala Lumpur, there are the Batu Dam, Kampung Pusu and the Hulu Gombak Forest Reserve with its water catchment areas.
Further afield, there is the popular Sungai Dua site near Karak in Pahang. This is a strenuous 40km trail that reaches into the Lentang Forest Reserve. As in many routes in Malaysia, this trail leads to a nice river or even waterfall – in this case the impressive 30m-high Kerau waterfall located at its end. As with this site, a notable feature of most of these rainforest sites is the numerous stream crossings.
Many recreational forest reserves in Malaysia are suitable for off-road cycling. Check with the local authorities for conditions.
There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.
Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.
Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.
The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.
A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.
Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.
Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.
The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.
Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.
Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.
Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.
From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.
Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.
Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.
The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.
Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.
Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.
Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.
Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.
Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!