Sungai Chilling

Sungai Chilling is the last remnant of a mighty river that once ran through Kuala Kubu Bharu. A dam project completed in 2003 inundated the valley in which the river used to flow, so that now the waters of Sungai Chilling feed into a lake instead. Lest we forget, the dam project also displaced several Orang Asli (Aborigine) communities from their ancestral homes, something which they have never recovered from till today. This waterfall can be reached in little more than an hour from Kuala Lumpur.

To reach Sungai Chilling, follow the trunk road to Ipoh via Rawang from Kuala Lumpur, turning off at the Kuala Kubu Bharu exit. Visitors can also use the old trunk road from Bentong, passing by the Gap at Fraser's Hill along the way. The entrance, clearly marked with a colourful goal post, is just right after the Kuala Kubu Baru Dam. Visitors then head to the rangers' office, where they can register (if anyone is in) and proceed on the suspension bridge to begin trekking to the main waterfalls. There is a fee of 50 cents for whole day usage of the bathrooms.

The trail (starts on the left) is quite flat and easy, though the initial part feels like walking on a small stream bed. Depending on how fast you go, it may take only half-an-hour, though most people complete the course in 45 minutes or more. After crossing the river several times, you finally arrive at the main fall, which is a magnificent volley of water cascading down a narrow ravine from high up in the air. The waterfalls consist of several tiers; to view the upper falls, one takes the steep trail that starts on the right. This waterall is smaller, but offers a secluded location to relax in.

If you trek even further up, the waterfall becomes a fast-flowing river that's also perfect for exploration. The trail also leads to Gunung Kutu, a small mountain. Visitors should be aware that this is a dangerous river, so avoid visiting Sungai Chilling during periods of heavy rainfall. Although initially small in volume, the river can swell up to immense sizes in an instant if it rains heavily upstream. Sungai Chilling has also developed somewhat of a tragic reputation, having claimed many lives several years ago, mostly swimmers getting stuck in strong currents or campers by the river swept away during such flash floods. Though it is now relatively safe with rules and regulations in place by the authorities along with constant monitoring, it helps to have a healthy respect for this river. If you wish to visit Sungai Chilling, check out our Adventure Day Tour to this waterfall.