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CAMERON HIGHLANDS
Cameron Highlands is the largest and most genteel of the hill
resorts in Malaysia, located in Pahang's north-western corner,
at an altitude of 1,829meters. The temperate climate of the
Cameron Highlands has made it Malaysia's 'Green Bowl,'
supplying cabbages, tomatoes, carrots, green peppers and
lettuce to major cities in Malaysia as well as to Singapore.
Tea and strawberries are also grown on the terraced slopes of
the Cameron Highlands, and the area possesses notable rose
gardens as well.
Much of the character of the Cameron Highlands has remained
unchanged since colonial times, and in many ways it is at hill
stations like the Cameron Highlands that British residents
most determinedly recreated an idyllic English environment.
Brinchang's Tudor inns and rose gardens are the most visible
reminders of English colonials, but the ubiquity here of fine
tea and strawberries helps. While Brinchang, with its bustling
market square, handicraft stores, and Buddhist Temple, is the
most popular of the area's towns, visits to Ringlet and
particularly to Tanah Rata are highly enjoyable.
The primary activities in the Cameron Highlands are all
emphatically relaxing: touring, dining, shopping, and golfing.
Among the most popular sights are the area's tea plantations
and strawberry farms, its lovely rose gardens and waterfalls,
and the busy market square at Brinchang. The highland's
18-hole, par-71 golf course is open to the public.
Driving up to Cameron Highlands is a pleasure in itself, as
many interesting stops along the way can be made. From Tapah
take Route 59. At Batu 7, you can turn off right to take a
short break at the Kuala Woh Forest Recreation Park. There are
picnic areas and a hot spring.
Further along Route 59, there is the majestic Lata Iskandar
waterfall. Refreshments are available at the waterfall, making
it a fine place to stretch your legs before completing the
journey to the peak.
Cameron Highlands, a land of breathtaking scenery with cool
lush mountains peaks, waterfalls, tea plantations, terraces of
vegetable, fruit and flower gardens. This magical place is
tucked away at 1,829 metres above sea-level among the peaks of
the main range of Peninsular Malaysia. Temperature here hovers
between 16 to 20°
One of the wonders of Malaysia, Cameron Highlands the largest
most famous hill resort in the country. Discovered by a
British surveyor, William Cameron in 1885, this highland
paradise still retains much of the charm of an English village
Cameron Highlands is the smallest district in the state of
Pahang which is located in the north-western corner of the
state. It is made up of 3 main townships at different
altitudes.
The lowest is Ringlet, 1,200 metres above sea-level situated
near Bertam Valley where the soil is rich thus making this
area the main agricultural center of the highlands.
Further up is Tanah Rata which is the principal township where
most of the main banks and government offices are situated.
Next is Brinchang which is about 15 minutes drive from Tanah
Rata. This is where most of the hotels are located. The night
market that is open every Saturday night features all kinds of
vegetables, flowers, fruits and other products of the
highlands.
Beyond Brinchang, the road leads to Kea Farm, Sungai Pallas,
Tringkap, Kuala Terla, Kampung Raja and the Blue Valley Tea
Plantation
Hiking is one of the most enjoyable activity in the highlands.
The view from the summit is a rewarding experience for those
who hike the mountains. There are many mountain here at
Cameron Highlands but the 3 most popular ones are :
Gunung Beremban
Located in Tanah Rata, it can be reached via the Mardi
Station, Brinchang (behind the Sam Poh Buddhist temple) or the
golf course, past the Arcadia bungalow where the road stops
(this is the easiest trail). It takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours
to reach the summit. There is a good view down Tanah Rata town
from the top. it is also possible to climb Gunung Beremban
from Robinson's Falls.
Gunung Jasar
Also located in Tanah Rata Gunung Jasar is an good track for
beginners. The trail which starts next to the road to the
weather station will take you 1 1/2 hours to reach the peak.
Another trail which lead to the peak is located near the Oly
Apartments in Tanah Rata.
Gunung Brinchang
Gunung Brinchang, is the highest peak in Malaysia accessible
by road. The trail which starts from Sungai Pallas will take
about 1 hour 30 mins to reach the summit. The view from the
summit offers a great panorama of the plateau, although it
spends most of its life shrouded in cloud. The road up the
mountain starts near the Sungei Palas tea estate.
Jungle Walks / Waterfalls
Cameron Highlands features a number of nature trails which
varies in difficulty. Nature lovers will enjoy the trails
which takes you to see some of the spectacular views of the
highlands forests. You will discover the unspoiled natural
beauty of Cameron Highlands as you wonder through the various
forest plants and animals. It is best to engage the services
of a guide to escort if you wish to explore the harder trails.
Two of the most popular waterfalls here is the Parit Waterfall
and Robinson Waterfall. Both are located close to Tanah Rata.
(Maps with detailed hiking trails are available at the tourist
information centre in Tanah Rata and in most hotels)
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