Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia
Gunung Mulu was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 for its karst geology, cave systems and biodiversity. It contains Sarawak Chamber, one of the largest known cave chambers in the world by area, and Deer Cave, which has one of the largest cave passages. The park's limestone Pinnacles are razor-sharp stone blades rising up to 45 metres on the slopes of Gunung Api. Millions of wrinkle-lipped bats stream out of Deer Cave most evenings in a spiral formation that is the park's signature sight.
Last updated: 19 Aug 2026
Places to visit
- Deer Cave and Lang Cave show caves with the evening bat exodus
- Clearwater Cave and Wind Cave reached by longboat
- The Pinnacles trek on Gunung Api
- Mulu Canopy Skywalk, one of the longest tree-based canopy walks
- Garden of Eden valley walk
Unique Aspects
- Bat observatory amphitheatre for the nightly exodus
- Boardwalk trails through peat swamp and rainforest suitable for all fitness levels
- Night walks with guides spotting stick insects, frogs and snakes
- Access only by air, keeping visitor numbers controlled
Things to do
- Guided show cave tours
- Adventure caving at Racer Cave and Clearwater Connection
- Three-day Pinnacles climb with overnight at Camp 5
- Canopy skywalk and night jungle walk
- Longboat rides on the Melinau river and visit to a Penan craft stall
Best Time to Visit
May to September for drier trekking conditions; the park is open all year
Weather Conditions
Hot and humid, 23 to 32 degrees Celsius, with rain possible any month and higher rainfall from October to February
Entry Fees & Permits
Park entry permit around MYR 30 (INR 600) valid five days; guided cave tours MYR 35 to 60 (INR 700 to 1,200) each; canopy skywalk about MYR 50 (INR 1,000); park office 08:00 to 17:00
Accessibility
Fly Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu to Miri, then a 30 minute MASwings turboprop flight to Mulu airport. The park entrance is a short walk or shuttle from the airstrip. There is no road access.
Recommended Duration
3 to 4 days, or 5 days if attempting the Pinnacles
Clothing & Gear Tips
Quick-dry clothing, sturdy trekking shoes with grip, rain poncho, torch, insect repellent, and leech socks for jungle trails
Local Food & Souvenirs
Sarawak laksa, kolo mee and jungle fern (midin) at Miri; buy Penan rattan baskets, beadwork and Sarawak pepper. Carry cash as card facilities at Mulu are limited.
