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 Gunung
Mulu National Park is one of Nature's most spectacular achievements and
the 'jewel in the crown' of Sarawak's expanding network of natinal
parks. It is also the largest national park, covering 544 sq km of
primary rainforest, which is criss-crossed by fast flowing rivers and
clear jungle streams. Mulu is dominated by three mountains - Gunung Mulu
(2,376 m), Gunung Api (1,750 m) and Gunung Benarat (1,585 m). Yet many
of Mulu's greatest attractions lie deep below the surface. Hidden
underneath the forested slopes of these mountains is one of the largest
limestone cave systems in the world.
This system, a breath-taking natural wonder, contains a number of
record-breaking caves. With the world's largest cave passage (Deer
Cave), the world's largest natural chamber (Sarawak Chamber), and the
longest cave in Southeast Asia (Clearwater Cave), it is not surprising
that Mulu has garnered worldwide recognition as a nature park and
trekking venue for outdoor lovers. Over 200 km of cave passages have
been surveyed but this is thought to represent just a mere 30-40% of the
actual total of passages the mountain has to offer.
Mulu National Park
 The
oldest of Mulu's caves have been approximated to be formed about 5
million years ago when sideways earth movements resulted in the
formation of both limestone and sandstone mountains, lying side by side.
Millions of years of heavy rain and the action of rivers and running
water carved out the vast subterranean system that exists today. The
weathering process still continues; dripping water creates new rock
features, limestone is slowly worn away through erosion, and underground
rivers carve and sculpt the caves, transporting limestone debris to the
cave mouth or redistributing it within the system.
 Although
Mulu is mainly considered to be synonymous with caves, the 'Mulu
experience' is not just limited to its underground attractions. Above
ground there is also plenty of things to see and do.
The park boasts of a lush rainforest and plateau land that are rich in
its offerings for a wide range of nature-based activities for all its
visitors.
There are some excellent trails for jungle treks and mountain hikes,
including the challenging trek to view the Pinnacles – the 45-meter
high, razor sharp limestone spikes that sit majestically on the slopes
of Gunung Api.
With it's rich bio-diversity, and world-famous caves, Mulu offers the
adventurous traveler an exhilarating caving and rainforest experience,
that is pretty hard to match anywhere else on Earth.
Entry Permits & Fees
There is a nominal entry fee for all National Parks in Sarawak. Photo
permits are also required. Check with the National Parks and Wildlife
Office in Kuching or Miri for the lastest fee structure.
If you are travelling on a tour, your operator will obtain the required
entry permit. Independent travelers going to the park via Miri are
advised to apply for and get an entry permit from the Visitors
Information Center located near the Miri bus station. Those flying
direct to Mulu can obtain a permit at the park headquarters upon
arrival.
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