Endau-Rompin National Park
Johor
Endau-Rompin National Park, spanning approximately 870 square kilometers in northeastern Johor and southern Pahang, is Malaysia's second-largest national park and one of the world's oldest tropical rainforest complexes. The park is named after the Endau and Rompin rivers that traverse its terrain and features the second-highest peak in Johor, Gunung Besar. It boasts diverse flora including towering Tualang trees and unique species such as keruing and meranti. The park shelters a wide range of wildlife, including Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, clouded leopards, and the now locally extinct Northern Sumatran rhinoceros. Visitors can explore about 26 kilometers of trails and enjoy spectacular natural features like the 120-meter-high Buaya Sangkut Waterfall, known for its five tiers and legendary origins. The park is also culturally significant, offering insights into the indigenous Jakun people's traditions and forest lore. It is accessible via two main entrances, Kampung Peta and Selai, and is closed during the monsoon season from November to March to preserve its delicate ecosystem.
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Tip: The best time to visit Endau-Rompin National Park is during the dry season, from April to October, to avoid closure during the monsoon. Visitors are advised to book permits or guided tours in advance, especially for trekking and camping. Fishing is prohibited from September to October to protect spawning fish. Prepare for multi-day hikes if planning to reach remote waterfalls like Buaya Sangkut. Camping sites are limited, so early reservation is recommended. Bring appropriate gear for tropical rainforest conditions and respect local indigenous customs.
Interesting facts
- •Endau-Rompin contains rock formations approximately 248 million years old, among the oldest in the world.
- •The park is home to unique species such as the Gollum's toad (Ingerophrynus gollum), found nowhere else.
- •Buaya Sangkut Waterfall is 120 meters tall with five distinct tiers and is named after a local legend involving a crocodile.
- •The park once housed the largest population of Northern Sumatran rhinoceros in Malaysia, now extinct in the wild locally.
- •Tualang trees in the park have been recorded at heights up to 84 meters, some of the tallest in Malaysia.
History
Scientific exploration of the Endau-Rompin area began in 1892 with studies by H.W.
Lake and Lieutenant H.J.
Kelsall.
The forest was first designated as a reserve in 1933 and expanded in 1972 to include adjacent forests.
Although proposed for national park status in the 1970s, legal and jurisdictional challenges delayed its formal establishment until later.
The National Parks Act of 1980 provided a framework, but disputes postponed official designation.
In 2022, the park was recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, highlighting its ecological and cultural importance.
Place Guide
Kampung Peta Entrance and Indigenous Village
Starting point for many treks, Kampung Peta is a traditional Orang Hulu village where visitors can learn about indigenous culture and forest lore.
Buaya Sangkut Waterfall
A majestic 120-meter high waterfall with five tiers, renowned for its scenic beauty and legendary origin story involving a crocodile.
Gunung Besar
The second-highest peak in Johor, located within the park, offering challenging hikes and panoramic views of the rainforest canopy.
Camping Sites (Kuala Jasin, Batu Hampar, Upeh Guling, Kuala Marong)
Four main camping areas within the park that accommodate up to 300 visitors, providing base camps for jungle trekking and wildlife observation.
Contact
Phone: 07-922 2875
