Trek through the tropical forest of Lata Jarum to go on a Rafflesia-hunting adventure, bask in the beauty of Lata Jarum waterfall, then go to Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary for a feeding and bathing session with Asian elephants!
Go on a trekking adventure in the tropical forest of Lata Jarum to discover the Rafflesia, the world’s largest single flower of any flowering plant. It is usually believed that the only place in Malaysia one can find this strange flower is Borneo, but it is also present in Lata Jarum’s forest in Peninsular Malaysia. The majestic Rafflesia can range up to 100 centimetres in diameter and weigh up to 10 kilograms per flower. It has five large red petals that are covered with warts, and the petals spread wide open when in bloom around the opening in its central chamber.
When it blooms, the Rafflesia emits a stench that people have said reminded them of decaying flesh. This stench attracts flies and other insects into its chamber to lay their eggs, which aids in pollinating the flower. Since the Rafflesia is a parasitic plant, it does not carry out photosynthesis, instead of feeding off its host vine. It most definitely is a rare sight one must experience, as it is a flower unique to very specific parts of Southeast Asia. The time taken for a Rafflesia to bloom can be up to 16 months, while the period between blooming and decaying is only about 8 to 10 days.
On this trek, you will also get to see Ulu Dong’s waterfall, Lata Jarum. Although smaller than many other waterfalls in Malaysia, its cascades of water are still strong and impressive enough to evoke a similar sense of tranquillity one can achieve at the bigger waterfalls. There is a huge pool at the base of Lata Jarum waterfall that is ideal for swimming, wading or picnicking. The area is also shrouded in an abundance of greenery, lending the atmosphere its freshness.
The team at Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is dedicated to locating, subduing and translocating problem elephants from habitats that have been destroyed due to development. Over 700 wild elephants have been relocated to new and better homes thanks to the efforts of the team of about 24, who do their best in preventing further decline of the elephant population. Besides housing these wild Asian elephants, the sanctuary also actively carries out public awareness activities to educate Malaysians on the plight of the elephants who have lost their habitats.
At the sanctuary, you will find adult elephants and calves, some of which are orphans. These elephants do not only undergo rehabilitation at the sanctuary but are also trained to help other the team in the translocation of other elephants. At the sanctuary, there is a video presentation on elephant translocation and its importance in maintaining and protecting the elephant population in Peninsular Malaysia. Visitors are more than welcome to feed these Asian elephants bananas or sugarcane and bathe with the baby elephants, but if you choose to do the latter do remember to bring a change of clothes!
Just within walking distance from the sanctuary, you will find an Orang Asli village, one that is inhabited by the Che Wong. The Che Wong is one of nineteen original Orang Asli groups in Peninsular Malaysia. Their houses are usually made of Nipah, bamboo, rattan and wood. They may be shy, but maintaining a pleasant and respectful attitude is key to gaining their friendship. The Che Wong maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle, living close to the jungle and harvesting its resources in moderation.
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Refer to the map below to see a list of meet up location(s) that are available for you to choose from. You can select your desired meet up location when you book the tour.
List of Location(s):
This tour does not include pick-up or drop-off services. Guests will need to meet at the selected location for the activity.
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