Friday, March 27, 2009

Nature in Johor

Endau - Rompin National Park



This park that sits between Johor and Pahang encompasses the watershed of rivers in Endau, Johor and Rompin, Pahang, which comprises some 488 sq km of forest.
Lush and relatively untouched, it is one of the few remaining lowland tropical rainforest in the country and the last refuge of the Sumatran rhinoceros.
It is a major conservation area due to the diversity of flora and fauna found within. Its rocks and hills are estimated to be nearly 250 million years old.



Getting There :




From Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru, take the North-South Expressway and exit at Kluang. Then take a detour to Kahang town, where a four-wheel drive vehicle will take you to Kampung Peta, the entry point to the National Park.



It is also possible to reach the park by boat from the Endau River, a 3-hour journey from Felda Nitar II.
AttractionsA great place for nature lovers, there are many activities that can be pursued such as botany, nature study, bird watching, photography and jungle trekking. For nature study, the unusual flora that can be found include the famous fan palm of the 'Livistona endauensis' variety; climbing bamboo; the walking stick palm; toadstools; and orchids.



Wildlife include tigers, elephants, deer, Sumatran rhinoceros, binturong or bear cats (Arctictis binturong), chirping drongos, hornbills, argus pheasants, and white handed gibbons, the only ape species in the region.
Planning an ItineraryStaying at the park for 4D/3N would be ideal as you'll have enough time to immerse in the park's activities and attractions. Special tours may be arranged to cater to a variety of interest such as botany, nature study, and bird-watching. Photographers will enjoy the challenging activities carried out here.
Jungle TrekkingThere are some 26 km of jungle trails within the park, the most well- trodden path being the gruelling 16 km trail from Kuala Jasin to Batu Hampar and Buaya Sangkut, with numerous rapids crossings. At Buaya Sangkut, be enchanted by the beautifual sight of a waterfall.




Ulu Tiram Estate



This is a working plantation open to visitors. It is situated about 26km north-east of Johor Bahru on the road to Mersing. Visitors can view the rubber trees and observe how latex is tapped and processed for export. They can also discover the workings of a palm oil factory and see how the oil is extracted and refined to form the base for products like margarine, soap and cosmetics.



Kota Tinggi Waterfall


Also popular is the waterfall in Kota Tinggi, 62km away from Johor Bahru. Originating from the top of Gunung Panti, the waterfall cascades from a height of 36m down a steep precipice into a pool deep enough for swimming.
It is a good spot to take in the fresh mountain air, but can get especially busy during the weekends. There are Swiss style chalets equipped with cooking facilities. At the base of the fall, there are also public changing rooms, camping grounds and a restaurant.



Grisek Hot Spring


The Grisek Hot Spring is a natural hot spring in the district of Muar. Situated about 10km south-east of Parit Jawa, the Grisek Hot Spring is a popular destination for visitors who believe in the healing powers of hot mineral water to soothe muscle aches and provide some relief for certain skin ailments.
Other facilities include chalets, a children's playground, shops, showers and parking.



Aquaculture (Arowana) Centre


Located along Jalan Zahir, this tropical fish centre specialises in Arowana fish and is reputed to be one of the largest in then world. The Arowana fish is referred to as the 'Golden Dragon Fish' among the Chinese community. It is believed that the majestic looking fish brings good luck.


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