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Niah National Park is one of Malaysia’s most fascinating national parks, located in the Miri Division of Sarawak on the island of Borneo. It is especially well-known for the famous Niah Caves, which are rich in both natural wonders and archaeological significance. The park spans over 3,100 hectares and features limestone caves, tropical rainforests, and historical treasures dating back thousands of years. The combination of nature and history makes Niah National Park a must-visit destination for adventure lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Reaching Niah National Park is relatively easy, especially from the nearby city of Miri, which is about 110 kilometers away. Here are a few options:
By Car: You can rent a car or take a taxi from Miri to the park. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via the Pan Borneo Highway.
By Bus: Buses from Miri to Batu Niah town are available, and from there, you can take a short taxi ride or local transport to the park entrance.
By Air: The nearest airport is in Miri. You can fly into Miri from major Malaysian cities such as Kuala Lumpur or Kuching and then travel by road to the park.
Niah experiences a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it is hot and humid throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C. Rainfall is common, especially between November and February. The best time to visit is during the drier months from March to October, when the trails and cave paths are easier to explore.
The park is open daily, including weekends and public holidays. The general opening hours are:
It’s advisable to start your trip early in the day to make the most of your visit, especially if you plan to hike and explore the deeper parts of the caves.
Niah National Park is most famous for its huge limestone caves, especially the Great Cave, where archaeologists discovered human remains dating back around 40,000 years. This makes it one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites. The discovery of the skull known as the “Niah Man” proved that this area was one of the earliest human settlements in the region.
Besides the archaeological significance, the park is also renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique limestone formations inside the caves. The sight of local collectors climbing wooden poles inside the cave to harvest bird’s nests is also a captivating traditional practice that draws visitors.
Visitors must register and pay an entrance fee at the park headquarters before entering. The fee is very affordable:
After registration, visitors need to cross a small river by boat (usually RM1 per person) and then walk about 3 kilometers on a well-maintained boardwalk through the jungle to reach the cave complex.
The Great Cave is the centerpiece of Niah’s history. It is a vast limestone cave that has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years. Excavations in the 1950s uncovered tools, pottery, burial sites, and one of the oldest modern human skulls ever found in Southeast Asia.
Architecturally, the caves are naturally formed limestone structures with massive chambers, narrow passageways, and towering ceilings. Some parts of the cave system are still used by local communities to collect edible bird’s nests, a traditional activity that adds cultural value to the site.
There’s a lot to explore in Niah National Park, including:
Niah National Park in Sarawak is a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure. From ancient archaeological finds to thrilling cave explorations and lush rainforests, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you are a curious traveler, a nature photographer, or a history enthusiast, Niah will leave a lasting impression on you. Don’t miss the chance to walk through one of the most historically rich and naturally beautiful parks in Malaysia.
