The Rafflesia
A rare bloom lasting only days.
KelvinToh — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Cerevisae — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Annette Teng — CC BY 3.0 · Cerevisae — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Cerevisae — CC BY-SA 4.0
Gunung Gading National Park is a rainforest near the town of Lundu in south-west Sarawak, about 75 km from Kuching, covering 41 sq km. It is known for the Rafflesia, one of the world's largest flowers, and for a chain of waterfalls reached by a fairly easy trail. It ranks among the best places in Borneo to see this rare flower. The park was founded in 1983 to protect Rafflesia tuan-mudae and its habitat. It began mainly as a domestic destination, peaked in visitor numbers in 1995 after its facilities were developed, and has grown again with more foreign visitors. The visitor centre is modelled on a traditional Bidayuh head-house and has exhibits about the Rafflesia. The giant Amorphophallus also grows here, flowering even less often. The Rafflesia blooms erratically and for only a few days, so you won't see it on every visit. Rangers alert tourist offices when a bloom is expected, and official social media pages post news. Entry during a bloom usually requires a guide. The Waterfall Trail passes seven cascades, with bathing pools under the trees, and a tough route to the summit of Gunung Gading takes about six hours return. Wear sturdy shoes and bring insect repellent, as the ground can be slippery. The park is 61 km from Semenggoh Wildlife Centre in a straight line and works as a day trip from Kuching by car. Don't count on public transport, and call the park before you go to check for blooms.
A rare bloom lasting only days.
Seven cascades and bathing pools.
Modelled on a Bidayuh head-house.
Near Lundu, south-west Sarawak
Follow the park's official pages or call before you go, as blooms are irregular and last only a few days.
Yes, if you like walking, as the Waterfall Trail and bathing pools are enjoyable, though it is a long trip from Kuching.