Royal Belum State Park
Perak
Royal Belum State Park, located in the northern part of Perak, Malaysia, is part of the vast Belum-Temenggor forest complex, one of the world's oldest rainforests, estimated to be over 130 million years old. This ancient tropical rainforest is older than the Amazon and Congo forests. The park encompasses dense primary forest and the manmade Tasik Temenggor lake, dotted with hundreds of islands, creating a unique ecosystem. It is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife including 14 of the world's most threatened mammals such as the Malayan tiger, Indian elephant, white-handed gibbon, Malaysian sunbear, and tapir. The forest also shelters over 300 bird species, notably all ten hornbill species found in Malaysia, making it an important bird area. The flora includes thousands of flowering plants and rare species like the giant Rafflesia flower. The park is a vital water catchment area and part of Malaysia's Central Forest Spine, protected under national forestry laws. Despite pressures from logging in surrounding areas, Royal Belum remains a preserved natural sanctuary, offering visitors a rare glimpse into an ancient ecosystem rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their trip during the dry season for easier access and better wildlife viewing opportunities. It is recommended to arrange permits or guided tours in advance due to conservation regulations and limited access points. Discounts may be available for groups or educational visits. Carry sufficient supplies and be prepared for remote jungle conditions. Respect park rules to help preserve this sensitive environment.
Interesting facts
- •Royal Belum State Park is home to all ten species of hornbills found in Malaysia, the highest diversity in a single forest.
- •The park contains three species of Rafflesia, the world's largest flower, including Rafflesia cantleyi, R. kerri, and R. azlanii.
- •The forest complex is older than the Amazon and Congo rainforests, estimated at over 130 million years old.
- •Tasik Temenggor, a large manmade lake within the park, covers 15,200 hectares and contains hundreds of islands.
- •The Malayan tiger population in the forest has declined significantly due to poaching and prey depletion, highlighting conservation challenges.
History
The rainforest of Royal Belum is believed to have existed for over 130 million years, making it one of the oldest tropical rainforests globally.
The area was historically inhabited by indigenous Orang Asli communities, including the Jahai tribe.
During the British colonial period, the forest served as a refuge and strategic hideout during conflicts, with local villages relocated in the 1950s due to communist insurgency operations.
The state government officially gazetted part of the Belum forest reserve as Royal Belum State Park in 2007, aiming to protect its unique biodiversity and ecological importance amid logging threats in surrounding areas.
Place Guide
Tasik Temenggor Lake1970s
A large manmade lake covering 15,200 hectares within the forest, dotted with hundreds of islands, providing unique aquatic habitats and scenic views.
Hornbill Habitat
The park is the only forest in Malaysia where all ten hornbill species coexist, offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Ancient Tropical RainforestOver 130 million years old
The primary forest of Royal Belum represents one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, with complex ecosystems and ancient plant species.
Orang Asli Cultural SitesPre-colonial to modern times
Areas within the park historically inhabited by the indigenous Jahai tribe and other Orang Asli communities, reflecting rich cultural heritage.
Contact
Phone: 019-437 2087
