Genting Highlands

Highlands ~ Genting Highlands (Read More)

Genting Highlands is a holiday destination located moderately near Kuala Lumpur. It only takes 45 minutes by car to get there from KL city. A cable car ride from the plateau township of Gohtong Jaya offers an alternative mode of transport to the peak. Despite the commercial nature of Genting Highlands, the areas surrounding the peak are lush montane forests while at the foothills, pristine jungles.

This is because the Genting Highlands is part of Titiwangsa Range, a vast stretch of mountains that forms the backbone of Peninsular Malaysia. The rainforests that cover the hills and valleys around the Genting Highlands are rich with flora and fauna; some new species have been discovered here in recent years. This is impressive, considering the proximity to a major city like Kuala Lumpur and rampant development at some parts. Genting Highlands itself is a tiny pocket of buildings composed of resorts, shopping complexes, theme parks and a casino located on the peak. If you were to enquire about nature activities here, you would probably get a blank stare.

Look around the foot hills, however, and you will find various nature reserves and waterfalls that beckon visitors to explore. The Sungai Tua and Sungai Sendat waterfalls can be found along the old road via Ulu Yam to Genting Highlands. Travel further up the same road and visitors can visit or even see the scenic Batang Kali waterfalls by the side of the road. These waterfalls and streams are popular on weekends among locals.

Using the Karak Highway or old trunk road from Gombak to Genting Highlands will lead you to Janda Baik, which has more tranquil streams and a hidden waterfall in the area (requires trekking). This place is also popular for birdwatching activities while being one of the entry points to climb Nuang Mountain. While Genting Highlands has been highly commercialised, it is fair to note that much of the natural environment still remains. Careful preservation must be enforced as the Genting Highlands has already reached its zenith of development. Further construction may jeopardise its natural heritage.