Taman Negara is a loose name given to the main National Parks of Malaysia. In total, there are 2 Parks that can be rated National Park on Peninsula Malaysia. This one in the central is bordered by the states of Pahang, Trengganu and Kelatan. The second, in the south, on the borders of Johore and Pahang. This second National Park is labeled as Endau Rompin by us here in Kuala Lumpur. In Johore, it is officially named Taman Negara. I thought that bit of background could help to clarify some uncertainties as to the place hat we are mentioning on this page.

Then the original Taman Negara, the one in the central region has 4 access points. The main one where the hotels and resorts are, is called Kuala Tahan. The other 3 entrances are hardly known.

To start with describing the Park, its has an area of 4,343 square kilometers of virgin or pristine forest. Terrain is mixed with a substantial part of flat lands, river basin and the highest peak in Peninsula. It is really a wild country but many trails are deliberately made for visitors. If you are dreaming of getting lost in the wilderness. This is the right place. if you are thinking of going on a long arduous adventure, there is this mountain 55 kilometers away. But you just want to taste the tropical forest with all its originality, there are nearby camping grounds that you are not far away from civilization. Then if you looking for some thing quiet, with wild animals calling, with no newspapers and television but your regular bartender on duty. This is the place.

On certain vantage points, hides are erected to assist visitors who lies in wait for their favorite animals to approach the salt lick ponds.

The area of main activities is the arrival point. There is the headquarter of the Forestry Department who manages the park and a world class resort. Of course the resort is equipped with rooms, restaurants and bar. there is also a mini-market where you could buy your provisions. The main Tembeling River separates the Park perimeters with the rest of the uncontrolled wilderness. Opposite the landing point, a sprawling settlement of Kuala Tahan is thriving. Here there are the low cost hotel, chalets and even a 3 stars resorts. the settlement offers parallel services as the official resort if not more. Eateries in the form of small shops are within the settlement. But along the eastern bank facing the official landing points, there are now floating restaurants operated on boats moored at the bank. The tracks in the parks are well marked and can easily go up to a distance of 20 kilometers. See Map.

Getting to Taman Negara is now made very easy. There is now an Expressway from Kuala Lumpur to the east coast, Kuantan. Somewhere mid-way there would be sufficient signage urging you to turn left.

From this junction, it is straight mono-carriage highway that runs for 60 kilometer to the next major town Jeranatut. Through this rustic settlement and another 15 kilometers, would the boat terminal in Kuala Tembeling.  

The picture left is a typical sign when you enter the settlement. It is a modern township like any other town in Malaysia. the wooden shed you see in the background, is one part where the road runs through a new village. The boat rides to the park takes 3 hours upstream. Slightly less than half of that time when you come downstream It used to be an adventure itself, when you board for this boat ride. You will pass through forest and see life on the riverside villages. Flora and fauna on the banks will open your eyes. Today, most of these sights are gone. The forest beside the banks are cleared for plantations. the wild life disappeared with the loss of habitats. All the same try to enjoy the ride. It is still nice for first timer.

You have almost no choice but to reach the Park by boat. However, for the locals and those who frequent the Park often, there is now the alternative land route. The way is 65 kilometers and the journey on the all weather paved road takes just around an hour. This is an boring ride through Palm oil plantations. The road is in very good condition, except one tiny stretch of 10 kilometers where the heavy logging trucks had damaged the road surfaces. Picture shows my car and the "track" or where the present road was in earlier days.

What can one expect in Taman Negara?

This happens to be the most interesting questions. Most friends of mine are Asian. The urban and non-outdoor type. For them, visiting Taman Negara is like clearing off one name on a "must-do" list. There is nothing for you to see in the jungle! If you are geared  up in seeing some scenic sights. Then you better re-think about making your trip. I would recommend that you should consider how to utilize this fantastic natural environment, to reward yourself with an unforgettable holiday. All has to do with outdoor living.

For the overseas visitors, they would check in and consult the locals as the camping sites and sanctuary. They would then choose one which they feel will suit them. Spend the whole holiday living in the jungle.

I have posted up some pictures to give you a better understanding of the places. You are your own best guide.

The rides available to take you around the place	Standard of accommodation available
The looks of the paths if you go trekking	The type of food you can expect
What activities can you do on your own

Have a nice trip to Kuala Tahan !

Visit other Taman Negara entrance points - Merapoh - Kuala Koh