Mulu: Malaysia’s premier jungle hideaway

 

Nestled in the heart of Borneo, the enigmatic Mulu beckons travellers from the farthest corners of the world.

The journey to this secluded haven is not a simple one, but then again, paradise is rarely found next to a highway.

There are three aerial gateways leading to Mulu: Kuching, Miri, and Kota Kinabalu. Each has its charm, painting a different shade of the Borneo landscape as you soar above it.

The distinguished title of “World Heritage Site” was bestowed upon the Gunung Mulu National Park in 1972. Rightly so, as Mulu is not just a sanctuary for flora and fauna, but also for the human soul seeking respite from the mechanical din of urban life.

Air Link

It is worth noting that no asphalt roads have been constructed which dissect the dense foliage to reach Mulu.

This isolation is both a boon and a bane. While it ensures the preservation of its pristine environment, it also limits the inflow of eager visitors.

The key to Mulu’s heart, for now, lies with the airline MASwings.

However, there are whispers in the wind that MASwings will soon be enveloped by Sarawak’s very own Hornbill Airways.

Many avid travellers, myself included, harbour a quiet hope that with Hornbill Airways taking the reins, the wings to Mulu would spread wider. The demand is palpable.

Flights to this secluded wonderland are often seen donning the “fully booked” sign, much to the disappointment of many.

If Hornbill Airways can double the capacity, more dreamers can embrace the reality of Mulu.

Mulu’s Abode

Accommodation, another key piece in the Mulu puzzle, mirrors the flight situation.

With the northern hemisphere basking in the summer sun, Mulu hotels find themselves in high demand.

The allure of a tropical retreat during the balmy summer months is undeniable. I would advise any hopeful visitor to plan well in advance, for Mulu’s abodes, like its flights, are often spoken for.

During one of my visits, a casual observation at Mulu Airport offered an intriguing insight.

Among the disembarking passengers, foreign faces seemed to dominate the crowd. This observation led me to an interesting realisation.

The knowledge and allure of Mulu seem to echo louder beyond Malaysia’s borders. But why?

Eco-tourism

Perhaps it is the global tilt towards eco-tourism and conservation. The verdant expanses of Mulu cater perfectly to this inclination.

Foreign tourists, it seems, have a heightened cognisance of these untouched pockets of nature. Their curiosity and reverence for such places propel them towards destinations like Mulu.

Interestingly, even though Mulu shares close geographical ties with Brunei, the skies between the two remain undisturbed by aircraft.

As of now, Bruneians and others in the vicinity have no direct flight connecting them to Mulu. It is a curious absence, and one wonders if this void will be addressed in the future.

Mulu stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur and the spirit of exploration.

Its remote location, while presenting logistical challenges, also promises an authentic escape from the modern world.

As the tides of tourism and transportation evolve, one hopes that Mulu’s essence remains undisturbed.

Whether you are a Malaysian discovering the hidden jewels of your homeland or a foreigner drawn by tales of a jungle retreat, Mulu awaits with open arms and whispered secrets.

Well done, Sarawak, for sustaining this jewel. It has been my best jungle retreat so far. - FMT

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.