Aside from the iconic twin towers and a wide range of delicacies, Malaysia is also known for its beautiful mother nature and lush green tropical rainforest.
So, if you ever wonder what else you can do to fill your weekends and spend some quality time with your family and friends, why not pack some food with you and have a picnic at some of the most beautiful waterfalls scattered throughout Malaysia?
Spread your picnic mat by the calming streams, take a bite of a freshly-made sandwich, splash some water, and take a picture in front of the majestic cascades—how fun is that?
Whether you’re from Kuala Lumpur, Kedah or even Borneo, you can find at least one waterfall in each state in Malaysia!
Continue reading below to find out our top 8 most beautiful waterfalls in Malaysia that you should definitely visit at least once in your entire lifetime.
Kanching Falls - Selangor
Image source: WaterFallsOfMalaysia
If you’re looking for a waterfall near Kuala Lumpur, then look no further than Kanching Falls. It is located within Kanching Eco Forest Park in Rawang which is about 21 kilometres away from the city centre of Kuala Lumpur.
Given its proximity to the city—you’ll only have to drive for about 40 minutes—Kanching Falls is a famous picnic spot among locals.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a sight of lush tropical rainforest and perhaps, a newly married couple posing for a photo or two on the bridge!
Since Kanching Falls is a seven-tier waterfall, you will have to go through a series of hikes until you can reach the top which has a spectacular view of the rolling hills.
If you’re not in the mood for adventure and long hikes, the first tier of the waterfall is only ten minutes away from the entrance.
The first four tiers can be reached via the concrete paths while the rest are a bit challenging as the steps get rockier and steeper the higher you go. However, the surroundings from the upper tiers are no doubt amazing!
You’ll be completely surrounded by mother nature and the soothing sounds of the cascade accompanied by birds chirping.
Sungai Pisang Waterfall - Selangor
Another waterfall that is located pretty near to Kuala Lumpur is Sungai Pisang Waterfall. Situated in Taman Warisan Negeri Selangor under the same distract in Rawang, this waterfall is perfect for those who would like to go on an easy hike away from the noisy sounds of the busy city.
Image source: Hiking the world
Once you’ve parked your car, all you have to do is follow the river stream until you can see two massive tunnels right under the Karak highway. The moment you reach the other side of the tunnel, you’ll immediately feel as if you’ve been transported into another world!
There will be tall, green trees everywhere, huge roots spreading on the ground, a calm stream of river flowing through, and after about an hour and a half of jungle trekking you’ll see a magnificent waterfall with a 30-metre drop. Also, believe it or not, the forest is actually said to be about a century old!
If you wish to have a picnic or set up a tent, you can find several platforms along the stream before you reach the two massive tunnels. The river is also quite shallow and gentle, so it’s perfectly safe for those who are visiting with children.
Rainbow Falls - Pahang
Looking for a place that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale world? Then start your car and get to Sungai Lembing, Pahang where you can find Rainbow Falls.
If you’re from Kuala Lumpur, the journey to this old mining town might take up to three hours, so plan your travel accordingly as you don’t want to miss a chance to witness a sunrise from this location!
Image source: SheWalksTheWorld
To start your adventure up the waterfalls, you’ll have to get to Lubuk Beruk. From there, you’ll need to go through a 45-minute jungle trekking where you’ll be crossing small streams with slippery rocks—so, be sure to wear appropriate shoes!
To get the best experience, time your journey so that you’ll reach the waterfall around 9 to 10 am. This is the recommended time if you wish to witness the rainbow that is formed at the waterfall.
Aside from taking pictures with rainbows and waterfalls as your backdrop, Sungai Lembing also has a hiking trail that’ll lead you up the mountain. On top, you’ll be greatly rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view of the lush greenery and a collection of hills.
If you happen to be there during the golden hour, don’t miss an opportunity to climb up to Sunset Hill. The view of the sun setting down is unbelievable and definitely Insta-worthy!
Seven Wells Waterfall - Langkawi
Other than island-hopping and beaches, Langkawi is also the home to one of the most stunning waterfalls in Malaysia. A little local myth about this waterfall – legend has it that this particular waterfall is the home to fairies and its water has great healing powers!
Image source: DailyTravelPill
Since the water plunges down from Langkawi’s second tallest mountain, you can gain access to two different sections of the waterfall; the lower section and of course, the higher section.
Getting to the lower section is rather easy as you only have to go through a short walk until you can hear the sound of the cascades flowing down the natural pool.
This section is most popular among families and it’s a great spot if you’d like to cool off. Nothing beats taking a dip into the cold crystal clear water after spending some time under the scorching sun.
To reach the higher section, which is also the main highlight of this place, you will have to climb up the 600 steps. It might take you about 30 to 45 minutes, but don’t worry as the steps are not that steep!
It increases gradually in height, but you’ll completely be surrounded by tall trees and bushes, so you won’t even feel the hotness of the sun.
Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll notice that there are a total of seven natural pools, hence the name! Either take a dip and slide down the natural slide or get on the bridge and admire the amazing view of the island.
Lata Tengkoh Penyel Waterfall - Perak
Image source: 1Step1Footprint
Have you ever seen a fan waterfall before? If not, then include Lata Tengkoh Penyel Waterfall in your list. Situated in Sungai Siput, Perak, this waterfall can be reached in about two hours from Ipoh.
What’s best is that on your way to the waterfall, you’ll also get to see the serene settlement of Orang Asli called Kampung Pendeq.
Right after you’ve parked your car at the entrance, you’ll have to take a short trek in the woods for about 20 minutes until you can see the 60-metre fan waterfall gushing through the rocks and into the pool. However, be careful if you wish to get in the natural pool as the current could be quite rapid!
Around the waterfall area, you’ll also find several bamboo and rattan huts built by the Orang Asli. You can rent those huts if you wish to stay the night surrounded by mother nature, but keep in mind that there is no electric power and food supply at all.
So, make sure you bring enough food and all other necessities including torchlights and so on!
Jelawang Waterfall - Kelantan
Image source: TwoBridsBreakingFree
Jelawang Waterfall or also known by some as Stong Waterfall is considered one of the tallest waterfalls in Southeast Asia. Situated in the state of Kelantan, this majestic seven-tier waterfall has a height of 303 metres! Set among the rich tropical rainforest, this waterfall is surely a sight to behold.
Away from the crowded cities, Jelawang Waterfall is nestled in the Gunung Stong State Forest Park, just a short distance away from a small town called Dabong.
You can even easily spot this waterfall from the roadside! To get a closer view of the falls, it is highly recommended that you hire a guide that will show you the way through the jungle.
The lower cascade is just 250 metres away from the entrance and the route is rather easy. To get to the higher falls, all you have to do is cross the bridge in front of the first waterfall that you encounter and from there, you’d have to hike your way up for about an hour and a half until you finally reach the foot of the towering waterfall.
The park also features a few camping sites should you like to immerse yourself in nature and spend the night in the forest, accompanied by the serene sounds of birds tweeting and crickets chirping. The sunrise view from the campsite is also to die for!
Kubah Falls - Sarawak
Image source: Wikipedia
Peninsular Malaysia is not the only one that houses great waterfalls. You can also find some in Sarawak and one of them is the Kubah Falls. This waterfall can be found in Kubah National Park, about 20 kilometres away from Sarawak’s capital city, Kuching.
Before starting your journey to the waterfall, be sure to register yourself at the park office first and once you’ve done that, go ahead and take the waterfall trail.
Nearby the entrance, you can also spot smaller waterfalls, but those are not the main highlights of the park. So, continue hiking for one hour and a half, but go slow as the trail could be slippery and rocky.
Along the way, you’ll also get to spot a few colourful birds perching on the tree branches whistling tunes.
If you want to get wet, stop by the first section of the waterfall where you can find a natural pool perfect for a dip. Grab a bite by the cascades and pose in front of the wide waterfalls.
If you still have some time, be sure to go on the different trails in the national park too.
Langanan Waterfall - Sabah
With a drop of 120 metres, Langanan Waterfall is considered to be the biggest waterfall in Sabah. This jaw-dropping waterfall is located in Poring Hot Springs, about a two to three hours journey from Kota Kinabalu.
Image source: lansmith
To get a closer look at this waterfall, you’ll have to spend at least four hours of your time going through the lush forest—so make sure to bring enough water and some snacks to munch on!
From the visitor centre, go through the canopy walkway. Here, you can also find a trail that leads to another waterfall named Kipungit Waterfall which is often filled with families and children.
You can stop by this waterfall, enter the bat cave along the way or continue straight to the main attraction; Langanan Waterfall.
After hiking for almost three kilometres, you’ll encounter another stream of the river and in just another thirty minutes, you’ll be greeted by another small waterfall with a pool perfect for a short swim and an area for a relaxing picnic.
Go ahead and sit around for a bit before continuing the hike until you see the fantastic Langanan Waterfall.
So, how does a trip to the waterfall sound? Imagine a weekend away from the congested roads and the noisy sounds of the crowds bustling in the shopping malls—it’ll surely make your mind at peace!
However, even though a picnic by the waterfalls can be fun and relaxing, keep in mind to be cautious at all times as the waterfall area could be extremely slippery and the currents could be dangerous.
Make sure you wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activities and don’t force yourself if you run out of energy during the hikes. Take a rest in between and enjoy the adventure.
Recommended Hiking and Camping Essentials
| Items | Get from Shopee | |
|---|---|---|
| Portable & Water Resistant Sleeping Bag | Check price | |
| Outdoor Survival Tool Box Kit | Check price | |
| Portable First Aid Kit Set | Check price | |
| Decathlon Hiking/Camping Raincoat | Check price | |
| Intensive UV Sunblock Cream | Check price | |
| Adjustable Hiking Pole | Check price | |
| Foldable Water Bottle With Filter | Check price | |
| Mosquito Repellent | Check price | |
| Sun Shade Waterproof Tent | Check price |
Disinfectant Essential Items (Hand-picked!)
As you know we’re going to live in the post-covid world. So getting the essential sanitise products with you when you travel are part of our life.
Here is the list disinfectant products with high rating and ready stock in Malaysia without you spending time to search for the best one on the market.
| Items | Get from Shopee | |
|---|---|---|
| Sanitizing Wipes [Non Alcohol] | Check price | |
| Disinfectant Fine Mist Spray Bottle | Check price | |
| Portable Humidifier | Check price | |
| KF94 Protective Face Mask | Check price | |
| Hand Sanitiser with 82% Alcohol | Check price | |
| Medisana PM100 Pulse Oximeter | Check price |
