Batang Ai National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia

Batang Ai National Park, Kuching Overview

Batang Ai National Park is a national park in Malaysia which can be accessed through the largest man-made lake Batang Ai. Orangutans (pongo pygmaeus) can be widely observed while on the treks offered or while staying in the longhouses or night camps.

Batang Ai National Park is also the place where Iban first settled. Infact, the Iban longhouses are one of the prime tourist attractions of the place. It gives an insight into the life and history of Iban. Apart from these Batang Ai National Park is a perfect go-to spot to spend a day trekking on the trails, sight orangutans and relax by the clear waters with the backdrop of the scenic rainforest.

1. Padlai Trail

This trail starts at Nanga Lubang Baya Longhouse. It follows a 30 meter climb to an old burial ground which is referred to as Pendam Sepetang. Then, it passes through the ridge between Nanga Lubang Ba (Read More)ya, a crocodile pool, and pig wallows to reach the highest point of Batang Ai river. Then the trail descends to Wong Padalai Rapids reaching the picnic spot.
Distance: 1.8 km
Time: 1 hr 30 min

2. Bilitong Trail

A difficult trail that goes through Tuchong Bilitong Iban burial site where six tribal leaders are buried. Then it follows the Ulu Sengai Serekong, a 320 m elevated platform. From there, Tuchong (Read More)Inggai of 420 m elevation is an optional climb said to be protected by the spirit of Tugang. It ends at Batang Ai and Lelayang stream where boats pickup.
Distance: 4.6 km
Time: 4 hours

3. Sium Trail

Sium trail is the most difficult trail of Batang Ai National Park. It is a steady trek for the starting 2.5 km followed by a ridge climb of 415m. It further crosses Iban burial ground to reach Bukit S (Read More)ium Ukap, with an elevation of 704 m. On a clear day Indonesian lake of Sentarum can be seen. On the way back, follow the Berikut river to reach Tapang tree which is respected among the Iban for its height, white wood and broad branches. Iban do not cut it as it is believed that cutting Tapan brings bad luck and death.
Distance: 7.6 km
Time: 5 hr 30 mins

4. Boating & Longhouses

A must-do is the boating in the lake to longhouses. When visiting Batang Ai National park, stay at Iban longhouse and witness Sarawak’s largest ethnic group, Iban’s culture and life first (Read More)hand.

5. Animal Sighting

Though Batang Ai National Park is famous for Orangutan sightings, there are much more species of wildlife to be found. Several trails pass through Orangutan’ habitation area and ensure an Orangu (Read More)tan sighting. Other than orangutans, one gets to witness Gibbons, Bearded Pigs, Langurs and Hornbills.