Sleep in the world's oldest rainforest

Taman Negara Photo: Getty Image

Finding a family holiday that is different from the last isn’t always easy. But, just a few hours from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a truly unique destination - Taman Negara.

With a history of over 130-million-years, it’s believed to be the oldest, primary rainforest in the world. Today, the national park offers an abundance of family-friendly activities. Whether it’s adventure, relaxation or exploration you’re after, there are plenty of ways to create the perfect experience.

Take your family on a Night Jungle Walk
Spend an evening under the stars, searching for Taman Negara‘s nocturnal creatures. Led by local guides, visitors are encouraged to use their senses to find the rainforests inhabitants. With a bit of luck and a good torch, you may cross paths with deer, tapir, monkeys and wild boar.

Children will enjoy looking for the thousands of smaller species including, butterflies, moths and giant ants.

Tahan Hide is also worth a visit. The observation deck is located near saltlicks and a watering hole, both of which attract wildlife.

Member of the Orang Asli Photo: Getty Image

Orang Asli village visit
Meet members of the Batek tribe - the ‘Orang Asli’, meaning ‘original people’ in Malay. Learn about the tribe’s methods of hunting-and-gathering, customs and language. Watch a bamboo blowpipe demonstration, and test your own abilities at using this traditional hunting tool.

Rapid shooting along the river Photo: Getty Image

Rapid shooting
Take a trip down the Tembeling River on an open boat. Pass through rapids and experience Taman Negara from a different perspective. It’s a quick but exciting ride for grown-ups and kids. Be prepared to get wet.

Tree-top canopy walk Photo: Getty Image

Become one with nature
Scope out the jungle 40-meters above ground level on the famous tree-top canopy walk. Explore the limestone caves of Gua Telinga, and trek to Gunung Tahan, the highest peak in Malaysia.

Tours and accommodation
There are various family tour packages available, from day trips to extended visits. Accommodation options within the National Park include hotels, bungalows and four designated camping sites.

How to get there?
Taman Negara is located in the middle of Peninsular Malaysia. The easiest way to access the National Park is from Kuala Lumpur. Take the bus, train or boat - each approximately 3-4 hours.

Belum-Temenggor Forest Reserve. Photo: Tourism Malaysia

Belum-Temenggor Forest Reserve, Perak
If the great outdoors is what you seek, Belum-Temenggor Forest Reserve in Perak is excellent for trekking, bird watching and animal sighting.

Belum-Temenggor Forest Reserve is among the last remaining virgin forest in Malaysia where biodiversity is practically intact. The pristine environment and intact eco system can be equated to Taman Negara 15 years back!

It is probably one of the remaining places where you're still able to view animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. There are plenty of Asiatic elephants, Malayan tapirs, deer, nearly extinct Sumatran rhinoceros, wild boars, Malaysian Sunbears, white-handed Gibbon and an estimated 500 Malaysian tigers wandering around the state park.

Life is all about unique experiences so why not immerse yourself in the beauty that Malaysia has to offer you? Find the best deals and book your next getaway with AirAsia.