For avid hikers, maybe, it is time for you to enjoy a change of scenery. Instead of your usual spot, why not go for a little adventure. Let’s explore and discover the most captivating hills in Johor that are perfect for hiking.
Johor is home to one of the most treacherous mountains in Malaysia. Its mountain ranges form part of the Titiwangsa Range, also known as Banjaran Besar by locals. The foothills of the Titiwangsa Range extend towards Johor, with Gunung Ledang as the highest point with a height of 1,276 meters. Interestingly, there are another ten mountains in Johor with heights measuring up to 1,000 meters.
If you are an adventure-seeker and up for a hike, grab your gears and head straight to Johor. Here is our list of the top 5 most captivating hills in Johor for hiking:
Gunung Ledang
Gunung Ledang is not only the most famous mountain in Johor; it is also the highest mountain in southern Peninsular Malaysia. Gained its fame from ancient Malay folklore, it is perhaps one of the most trekked mountains yet challenging day trek in Peninsular Malaysia.
Gunung Ledang, also commonly known as Mount Ophir, is accessible via two routes. The Sagil Path is the most commonly used path and much longer than the Asahan route. On the other hand, the Asahan route is less known as it is less accessible compared to the other route. It may take 7 to 8 hours of climbing to reach the top. Once you reach the peak, all tiredness will be blown away by the breathtaking scenery.
Gunung Pulai
Gunung Pulai is one of the most famous and accessible hiking spots in Johor. Its beautiful nature and variety of wildlife are some of the main attractions for hikers. Part of Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, the 654-meters high mountain covers about 80 square kilometers of the forest reserve.
For regular hikers, Gunung Pulai is a relatively easy hike. It takes four hours in total, with five kilometers each way of the hike up and down. On your way up, you will have the chance to pass by several waterfalls so don’t forget to take a refreshing dip!
Gunung Arong
Gunung Arong Recreational Forest is a forest reserve located in the Mersing district in Johor. It is a small hill with an elevation of 237 meters above sea level. A stream runs through the forest, which provides refreshing pleasure for many hikers. It is certainly a memorable experience for many.
Its peak rewards hikers and trekkers with a panoramic view of the South China Sea and its neighboring islands. Not only the beach view, but you can also enjoy the magnificent beauty of Pulau Tioman from afar. To reach the top, which is about 255 meters high, it takes two hours of climbing.
Gunung Muntahak
With an elevation of 634 meters, Gunung Muntahak is the main water source for the ever-famous Kota Tinggi Waterfall. The rainforest remains largely unexplored and undisturbed by human intrusions. Due to that, you won’t run into hordes of hikers.
Gunung Muntahak is hidden by other hills, make it hardly can be seen from the main road leading to the waterfall of Kota Tinggi. The trail is divided into seven sections. It begins with gentle slopes and followed by a steeper hike up to the summit.
Gunung Belumut
Located in Kluang, Gunung Belumut is among the highest hills in Johor. It is up to 1,010 meters high with steeper trails, which may take you more than 6 hours to reach the top. Since it is under the protection and management of the National Parks Council of the Johor Forestry Department, a small fee is imposed for mountaineering.
Along the trekking path to the summit, there are three campsites. The first campsite is nearby the base of the mountain, by the banks of a flowing stream. The second campsite is about a 30-minute walk from the summit. The third and last campsite is further up the mountain. To complete the entire trek, it takes about two days and one night for a small group. Needless to say, the majestic view is going to be worth it!
Which hills are you going to conquer next? For more adrenaline-pumping activities, check out KKday now!
Featured image by ShidaPixeL on Shutterstok
