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Bako National Park, Sarawak |
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Sarawak's oldest national park was established in 1957 on a 2,728 hectare site,
about 37 km from Kuching. It is known for its extraordinary variety and natural
scenery, habitats, plant and wild life.
Its most significant feature includes secluded coves and rugged rocky headlands
with magnificent steep cliffs that were carved by the weather and erosion over
a million years.
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The sea spray, wave action and the wind have
also carved out magnificent sea arches and sea stacks at the base of the cliff,
some rearing above the waves like a mighty serpent's head. The attractive
sandstone formation appears pink with iron patterns on the cliff. |
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Further inland, waterfalls tumble down into
freshwater pools in a tranquil and idyllic jungle setting. |
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Flora and Fauna |
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The lush vegetation represents 7 ecosystems ranging from the mixed dipterocarp
forest lowlands to the desert-like scrub highland.
A common plant found in abundance is the Dischidea rafflesia, a slender climber
bearing special expanded hollow leaves. Ants reside in these hollow leaves and
leave their excreta as nutrients for the plant. Others plants include sundew,
bladderwort and the notoriously carnivorous pitcher plant.
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The unique Proboscis monkey (orang Belanda)
can be found in the Borneo riverine forest. Easily distinguished by its
enormous cucumber-like nose, it is not uncommon to find the male species
lording over a harem of ten mates! The silver langur with the punk-like hairdo
is a very shy primate, feeding only on leaves. Their young are easily
distinguished by their bright orange colour. Other inhabitants in the park
include long-tailed macaques, bearded pigs, leopard cats and giant lizards such
as the tree monitors and skinks. |
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Planning an Itinerary |
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There is so much you can see and do within
this park. |
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* If birds are your cup of tea, find a good
spot to bird watch. A suitable place is Teluk Assam. With over 50 varieties
residing within the park, you are bound to see some funny antics from the
birds. |
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* Go on night walks and you just might be
lucky enough to spot a few nocturnal creatures as they come out to forage for
food. But you have to be really quiet and discreet so that they will not be
wary of your presence. Watch out for flying lemurs, mouse deer, civets and
bats. It might be easier to spot frogs from their loud croaking and also
cicadas. |
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* There are also marked jungle trails
throughout the park. It'll take you through the lowland forest and up the hills
for fantastic views of the headland, bays and beaches below. This is a good
opportunity for a close observation of the different vegetation species. |
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* Trek up to the Tajor waterfalls for a
picnic amidst the roar of the waterfall and then take a dip in the inviting
cool water. The trail ends with a steep descent to the beach. |
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* Get away from the usual crowd and camp at
picturesque Teluk Limau. Then, proceed to explore Teluk Keruing with its
marvelously secluded freshwater pond - a haven in the wilderness. |
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here to check out more at Sarawak's interesting destinations |
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How to get there |
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From Kuching, take a bus or taxi to Kampung
Bako. Then, take a 30-minute boat ride to the park. Boat services to the park
are operated by villagers who normally charge RM30 per boat. |
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