7 Must-Try Hiking Trails in Malaysia Ranked by Difficulty

There's something quite thrilling about conquering a hike. Be it for the view on top or just the fresh air. Hiking has been a favourite outdoor activity for many Malaysians.

Before starting a hike, it's important to know the trail you'll be hiking, as not every trail is suitable for beginners. We've put together a list of some of the famous hiking trails in Malaysia based on their difficulty.

Easy

1. Taman Tugu

Image Credit: Jom Explore

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this hiking spot is perfect for a short escape from the hustle and bustle of the city without actually leaving it.

There are a few trails with different overall distances to choose from. The Nursery Trail is the easiest to conquer as it's only 1 km long. Overall, it'll take hikers only about 30 minutes to complete. If you're looking for a bit of a challenge, the Orange Trail (4.2 km) might be what you're looking for.

Please note that although parking is free, it's quite limited, so you need to arrive early. Visitors also need to move their cars before the closing time, 6.30 pm, or face a fine of RM50.

Admission fee: Free entry

2. Bukit Kerinchi Forest Park

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Bukit Kerinchi Forest Park is adjacent to the sister forest, Hutan Pendidikan Bukit Gasing. Located in Lembah Pantai, KL, this place offers many trails with different difficulties. Some are suitable for kids, while others provide a challenge for endurance training.

There’s a pond here where you sometimes can see kids dipping in. This spot is also a popular choice for families to come and have a picnic or camping. Don't forget to snap a picture of two at their most striking landmark, the suspension bridge.

Admission fee: Free entry

3. KL Forest Eco Park

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Another hiking spot located right in the heart of the city, KL Eco Park's most famous landmark is the canopy walk. The walkway suspends 21 metres above ground and spans 200 metres with multiple vantage points.

The canopy walk is suitable for children and takes about 40 minutes to complete. The view from the perch is unparalleled. Not only do you get a clear view of the urban city of KL, but you can also have the iconic KL Tower as the background of your photo.

Admission fee: RM10 for adult & RM1 for children under 12 (Malaysian citizen), RM40 for adult & RM5 for children (Foreigners)

Moderate

1. Rawang Bypass

Image Credit: Matsuda Mashimaru

Although this hiking trail has a distance of only 3.2 km, the pathway to the top may be quite intimidating for amateur hikers.

You will need to climb into a dark drainage tunnel. Mind your steps here if you want to keep your shoes completely dry. After that, hikers will need to climb a steep trail to reach the top, where the view of the Rawang Bypass Highway will greet you.

Admission fee: Free entry

2. Broga Hill

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Located in Semenyih, this trail is famous among hikers for its breathtaking sunrise view. There are three ‘peaks’ on Broga Hill, and depending on fitness levels, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete the hike. The trail can be muddy in certain areas, so you'll need appropriate footwear.

Officially, hikers need to apply for a permit before climbing Broga Hills, as you can get fined if you're caught. The permit can be obtained from the Selangor Forestry Department's website.

Admission fee: RM1

Hard

1. Mount Angsi

Image Credit: Harian Metro

Located near Kuala Pilah town, Gunung Angsi May prove a significant muscle challenge for non-hikers. Stretching 9 km in distance, the hike to the peak required hikers to journey through steep trails with exposed tree roots and small rivers.

Note that a permit is required before climbing the mountain. The permit can be obtained from the Forest Department office located at the starting point. The office is open from 6 am to 11:30 am, and it costs RM5 per permit.

Admission fee: RM5 per person

2. Bukit Kutu

Image Credit: Menarik di Central

Do not be fooled by its ‘bukit’ (hill) name. This hiking trail provides a challenging hike with a distance of about 6 km for a one-way trip. The trail also boasts constant uphill climbs and requires hikers to cross rivers. Fun fact: Bukit Kutu often becomes a preliminary training ground for hikers before taking on Mount Nuang.

A permit is required to hike Bukit Kutu, and it can be obtained online. Once submitted via email and when you receive the confirmation, a payment of RM5 per person needs to be made. Keep in mind that there is a daily quota of 100 pax to climb Bukit Kutu, so you need to apply for the permit in advance to secure your spot.

Admission fee: RM5 per person