Did you know that Malaysia has more than 100 known waterfalls? And without any doubt, the deep and dense jungle might hide many more precious ones yet to be discovered. If you’re looking for something refreshing for the coming weekend, we’ve compiled 10 best waterfalls in Malaysia for you to discover.
1. Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, Langkawi, Kedah
Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls also known as the Seven Wells are the most picturesque and best-known waterfalls on the Langkawi island. It got its name from a collection of 7 intertwined natural pools fed by 7 different waterfalls. Rich with rare species of flora and fauna, the area was named as a protected forest reserve, known as the Machincang Forest Reserve. Take a relaxing walk and look out for lime plants and Sintuk that grow abundantly around the area; then take a cooling dip in the upper pools of Telaga Tujuh. Plan your trip during the monsoon season which is between September to October when the waterfall is at its fullest. But be careful as during this time, the stairs to climb could be rather slippery!
Location: Telaga Harbour Park, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: Free of charge (FOC)
2. Sungai Chiling Waterfall, Selangor
Located in Selangor, Chiling Waterfalls are a must-visit for the adrenaline junkies because they can only be reached after an adventurous trek along the river. You have to pass six river crossings so be prepared to get your feet wet! The water is deep and the current can get strong, but the walk is not dangerous. Keep in mind that the waterfalls are only open to the public on Friday, Saturday and Sunday because of a ruling by the Selangor fisheries department (the section of the area used for research) so plan your hiking trip from KL accordingly. Tripfez team voted it to be the best waterfall in Selangor!
Location: 44000 Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: RM 1.00
3. Rainbow Fall, Sungai Lembing, Pahang
The name itself already promises a magnificent sight – and you won’t be disappointed! If you get your timing right, you will see how the water creates mesmerizing rainbows within the mist. If you wish to witness the famous phenomena, you either have to start exploring early as it can only be seen in the morning, after a rainfall or when the sun is low. This is a perfect place for adventure seekers as this Malaysian famous waterfall can only be reached with a four-wheel-drive (4WD). You can also camp near the waterfall to make sure you don’t miss the magical rainbow moment.
P.S: 4WD and camping arrangements can be made with local travel agencies at Sungai Lembing village.
Location: Sungai Lembing, Pahang, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: RM 50.00 (guide, transport and insurance)
4. Mahua Waterfall, Tambunan, Sabah
Opened to public since June of 2003, the Mahua Waterfall is situated 26 km away from in Sabah. With a height of 17 meters, this waterfall has been steadily gaining popularity among nature lovers domestically and internationally. To reach the waterfall, you will need to walk on a 500-metre well-maintained trail surrounded by ever-green flora and hundreds of butterflies. Spot several species like the Monster Skipper, Black-Veined Mapwings and Blue Hedges. Truly magical!
Location: Kg. Patau, Tambunan, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: RM 3.00
5. Sekayu Waterfall, Terengganu
If you are heading to Terengganu, Malaysian state northeast of Kuala Lumpur, you will hear the locals boasting about this waterfall as one of their top tourist attractions. The Sekayu Waterfall is located within the easily accessible Sekayu Recreational Forest in Kuala Berang, about one hour drive from Kuala Terengganu. The park also has other attractions for its visitors such as beautiful gardens and fish ponds, fruit orchards, as well as mini zoo to add up to the charm of this place. In fact, Sekayu Waterfall park is one of the most comprehensive picnicking and trekking area in the state so if you’re travelling with kids, make sure to stop here for at least half a day.
Location: Hutan Lipur Sekayu, 21700 Kuala Berang, Terengganu, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: RM 1.00
6. Kota Tinggi Waterfalls, Johor
Located about four hours drive from KL, The Kota Tinggi Waterfalls is a famous weekend spot among many locals. There are two waterfalls: the nearest one to the entrance is a fascinating cascade falls with dammed pools at the bottom where one can have a leisurely swim. The other one is basically free fall that thunders down the valley which is accessible by a lovely walk. Both kids and adults will love fun slides built for visitors to slide down into the manmade pool. If you are into jungle trekking, try a light walk to Muntahak Mountain. Before you head out, arrange a guide: it is compulsory to have a local guide to trek up the undisturbed rainforest that experienced little or no human intrusion.
Location: Sungai Pelepah, Gunung Panti Recreational Forest, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia Entrance Fee: RM 7.50 for Malaysians and RM 10.00 for non-Malaysians
7. Giam Klimau Waterfall, Sarawak
Giam means waterfall or rapids in the Bidayuh (an indigenous ethnic group found in southern Sarawak) dialect. The most magnificent thing about the Giam Klimau is its curtain waterfall. A rocky and wide protrusion creates a shelter below where visitors can stand behind the falling water as it cascades down. Have you been in one these yet? Note that to access the fall you have to pass through a privately-owned oil palm plantation and report at several security checkpoints. Yet let us assure you that Giam Klimau is worth this small inconvenience.
Location: South-East of Niah National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: FOC
8. Ulu Chepor Waterfall Chemor, Perak
Ulu Chepor Waterfall is extremely popular on hot days for its cool clean water coming from the heights of the Kledang Hills. The famous Perak waterfall has a picnic area and basic facilities, such as bathrooms, small huts, prayer rooms and stalls selling food and beverages, built up by the Ipoh City Council. Its beautiful natural surroundings make Ulu Chepor a famous recreational place to relax, take a dip and have a meal in nature. Adventurous souls can explore and wander through trails of lush green forest and camp in the surrounding area. Don’t want to leave? The recreational park also has basic chalets for those wishing to stay longer.
Location: Ulu Chepor Waterfall, 31200 Chemor, Perak, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: RM 2.00 per car
9. Jelawang Waterfall, Kelantan
If you are driving from Taman Negara to Kota Bharu in north Malaysia, make a stop by Dabong, Kelantan. This destination is famous for its Gunung Stong State Forest Park. This park is one of the top 5 ecotourism destinations in Malaysia. It covers some oldest rainforest in the world and is a home to the tallest waterfall in Southeast Asia – the Jelawang waterfall, also known as Stong waterfall (160 meters).
Admire its beauty from below or trek to the top of the waterfall. It would take approximately half an hour. Enjoy your trip to Jelawang waterfall that offers a stress-free mood. Don’t forget to drop by the limestone caves near the Dabong train station: Gua Ikan, Gua Kris, Gua Pagar and Gua Gelap.
The caves system offers an exciting walk through some very narrow passageways and unique rock formations. Also, do take a stroll in the surrounding area – you might be just lucky to spot Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower that is native to the region.
Location: Dabong Forest Reserve, 18200 Kelantan
Entrance Fee: RM 5.00
10. Lasir Waterfall, Terengganu
Have you heard of Lake Kenyir in Terengganu, the largest man-made lake in Malaysia that has numerous waterfalls, rivers and streams surrounding it? Being one of those many amazing waterfalls, the Lasir Waterfalls is around 153 meters high and it cascades effortlessly through multi-levelled pools and stone formations. The water ponds at each of the 5 levels are well-shaded by the canopy of the surrounding green forest so do plan plenty of time to enjoy a rejuvenating and cooling swim. To visit this waterfall, you need a boat and the main starting point for the trips is the Pengkalan Gawi jetty near Kuala Berang, largest town of Hulu Terengganu District. There are campsites nearby where visitors can camp and soak up the beautiful and serene environment.
Location: Kuala Berang, Terengganu, Malaysia
Entrance Fee: FOC
Ready To Visit These Amazing Waterfalls In Malaysia?
Set your date, and make a trip to any one of these best waterfalls in Malaysia. Not a fan of waterfalls? We have these top 10 tourist attractions in Peninsular Malaysia and jungle treks for you to check out instead.
Also, if you wish to visit another destination in Malaysia, you can check out our website above for more update. Other than that, discover Insta-worthy locations in Penang for free for your next getaway!