When most travellers think of Malaysia, their minds often rush to the glittering skyline of Kuala Lumpur or the bustling streets of Penang. But nestled on the island of Borneo lies Sarawak, a treasure trove of natural wonders that offers something very different. Here, it’s not about concrete and steel — it’s about lush rainforests, rare wildlife, and centuries-old ecosystems waiting to be explored.
For those planning a trip to Sarawak, exploring its national parks is not just a good idea — it’s a must. From ancient caves to mist-covered mountains and mangrove-rich wetlands, Sarawak’s parks provide a raw and refreshing experience. Travelling around this state can be surprisingly convenient too. You can plan your itinerary and book a bus online through Bas Asia options available on redBus, Malaysia’s trusted platform for intercity travel. This portal gives you a reliable option to book a bus online.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most awe-inspiring national parks in Sarawak.
Bako National Park – Oldest and Wildest
Just 37 km from Kuching, Bako is Sarawak’s oldest national park and arguably one of the best places to experience its raw biodiversity. Despite being relatively small in size, it packs in a punch with its diverse ecosystems — beach vegetation, cliff forests, mangroves, and dipterocarp forests all in one place.
Wildlife lovers come here with the hope of spotting proboscis monkeys, which are unique to Borneo. Bako is also home to silver leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and bearded pigs. The park’s hiking trails, such as the Telok Pandan Kecil, lead you through the forest and end at stunning secluded beaches.
Gunung Mulu National Park – A UNESCO Marvel
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gunung Mulu is renowned for its limestone karst formations, massive cave systems, and underground rivers. The showstopper here is the Sarawak Chamber — the largest known cave chamber in the world. Then there’s Deer Cave, which is home to millions of bats that create a spectacular evening flight at sunset.
The treks here are not for the faint-hearted. The Pinnacles Trail, in particular, is both challenging and deeply rewarding, offering panoramic views of razor-sharp limestone spikes. Whether you’re a casual walker or an adventure enthusiast, Mulu delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Kubah National Park – The Land of Palms and Frogs
A short drive from Kuching will take you to Kubah National Park, a botanical haven that is particularly famous for its variety of palms and frogs. Night walks here reveal a symphony of croaks — Sarawak is known to host over 60 frog species, many of which are endemic to the region.
The waterfall trail is especially popular among visitors. It winds through lush rainforest before ending at a cool, clear pool — a perfect spot to rest your legs. For nature photographers, Kubah is a dream thanks to its dense foliage and the play of sunlight through the trees.
Lambir Hills – For a Short but Sweet Escape
If you’re looking for a national park that offers nature without demanding too much time or effort, Lambir Hills is an ideal pick. Located near Miri, it’s often visited by families, weekend trekkers, and nature lovers wanting a quick escape from the city.
The park is known for its high biodiversity and tall trees, some reaching over 80 metres in height. Several well-marked trails lead to waterfalls and lookout points. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and recharge.
Niah National Park – Where History Meets Nature
Niah is not just another national park — it’s an archaeological goldmine. The Niah Caves were once home to prehistoric humans, and some of the oldest human remains in Southeast Asia were discovered here. Besides its historical significance, the caves themselves are impressive — vast, echoing chambers with paintings and ancient burial sites.
The walk to the caves takes you through rich lowland forests and wooden boardwalks, offering a glimpse of Sarawak’s natural and cultural tapestry in one go.
Planning Your Journey Around Sarawak
Much like in it’s sister state, Sabah, Sarawak’s national parks are spread across a vast region, so efficient travel is essential. While domestic flights can help cover long distances, many travellers prefer to go by road to soak in the landscapes and local life. Booking your bus online through operators like Bas Asia on redBus gives you the flexibility and peace of mind you need while exploring this remote paradise. With frequent departures, real-time seat selection, and easy rescheduling options, redBus makes Sarawak’s wild heart more accessible than ever.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking limestone peaks, or tracking rare frogs in the dark, Sarawak’s national parks prove that Malaysia is more than just a city of skyscrapers. Here, nature tells stories that no concrete tower ever could — you just have to listen.
