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Similajau National Park |
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Area:7,064 ha
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Description
Situated in Bintulu Division (about 30km from Bintulu Town)
the national park provides recreational ground for the people within the
central region of Sarawak. It has one of the most beautiful coastal areas in
Malaysia with miles of unspoiled white and golden sand and rocky beaches facing
the South China Sea.
First gazetted on 1 December 1976 and published to public on 20 April 1978 with and areas of 7,064 hectares of virgin forest, starting from Sungai Likau in the south and as far as 30km stretch to Sungai Similajau to the north. Another 1,932 hectares of areas was extended to the park on 17 February 2000 this made the total areas to 8,996 hectares. Even though it’s a small area of strip land running from North-South direction, approximately 30km, but it is rich in flora and fauna that provided nature lovers with rich experience and activities.
Interesting Flora and Fauna found in the park
The flora consist of three main types namely; Beach,
Kerangas and Mixed Dipterocarp Forest, which provide Home to various species of
plants, trees and wildlife. Among the well-known plants found here are the
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longisolia) and Bintangor trees (Barringtonia Asiatica).
The terrestrial fauna of the park boasts 24 Recorded species of mammals, such
as gibbons, banded langurs and long-tailed macaque. The Park records the
presence of 185 species of birds, which include hornbills and migratory water
birds like Storm’s Stork. A very noteworthy reptile found here is the Saltwater
Crocodile. Lucky visitors may be able to sight dolphins out amongst the waves.
Occasionally, green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Visitors are advised
that turtles are totally protected animals and that it is an offence to disturb
them or their eggs.
Interesting flora
Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia Jack)
Common tree species found in the park. Belong to tree family of Simarubaceae, it is a small and slender tree and can grow as high as 15 metres in height. It produces a cluster reddish fruits of finger-sized and test bitter. On maturity it’s fruits turn black similar to coffee berries. No other national parks in Sarawak, Tongkat ali are found abundantly grown. It is also known as “Malaysian Ginseng”. Possesses medicinal value for curing high blood pressure and also good for kidney problems. Researchers reveal that it can be used as an “aphrodisiac” especially for male. The tap-root parts are essential and often extracted.
Bintangor (Calophyllum Linn.)
Belong to a tree of Guttiferae and can be found at both hill and swamp forest of Sarawak. Plenty of species but only two species are to be found to posses the medicinal value “calanolide” for curing of AIDS. The two species are calophyllum langigerum and calophyllum desmannii.
Interesting fauna
Ikan Lumba-lumba (Dolphin)
12 out of 20 marine mammals recorded in Malaysia occur in Sarawak. These include Whales, Dugongs and Dolphins. Five species of dolphin recorded in Bintulu waters. They are;
i. Irrawanddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris)
ii. Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiop trancatus)
iii. Indo-pacific humback Dolphin (Sousa cinensis)
iv. Finless porpoise Dolphin (Neophocaena phoacaenoides)
v. Pantropic spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuta)
Dolphins occur during the months of March to September every year. They are often sptted in groups of four or more during early morning of the day.
Penyu (Turtle)
Three common species so far recorded landing at the park beaches. These turtles are landing to lay their eggs. Three known localities are the Golden Beach, Turtle Beach I and Turtle Beach II. They come during the month of March to September annually. The three species are Green turtle (Chelonia mydas), Leatherback turtle (Dermochelyes coriacea), and Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate).
Buaya (Crocodile)
There is a signboard that reads “BE AWARE OF CROCODILE”. This indicates there are crocodile in the Likau River. Even though such warning sign are put, till today no crocodile attacked are reported in the park. There are two species of riverine crocodiles exist in the park. They are False Gharial (Tumistoma schlegii) and an estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porousus). The former is harmless while the latter is dangerous.
Belangkas (Horseshoe crab)
This king crab often occurs during the dry season starting from early May to October. They usually come in pairs, being the males on top of the females. The males are smaller in sizes as compare to the females. They come to the shore to lay eggs. During this breeding season we are to see plenty of catfishes (Ikan belukang) around feeding on the eggs.
Burung Kenyalang (Hornbill)
There are eight species of Hornbill recorded in Sarawak. Wildlife survey shows only few species are found at the park forests. Only solitary species, the Black hornbill (Anthracoceros malayanus) is found roaming in the park compound. Early notice during the early morning and late afternoon.
Places of Interest
Batu Mandi
About 4 kilometers of the shore of Kuala Sungai Likau. Can be reached only by boat. Noticeable from the Park only during low tide.
View Point
Located at the headlands of Kuala Sungai Likau. It is a shelter, sited strategically for nature lovers to view the Marine life, birds and other creature around the park.
Batu Anchau
It is a black bare rock surface situated at the end reach of the Batu Anchau trail and about 2km walk from the Park Office.
Selunsur Rapid
It is a rapid that exist at the end reach of the Selunsur Rapid trail. It is about 6.8 km from the Park Office. The rapid can be noticed clearly after a heavy down pour and fast flowing of high volume water on the steep rock surface.
Turtle Beach
There are 2 units of Turtle Beach namely Turtle Beach I and Beach II. They are located about 6 and 7 km away from the Park Office. These are the places where Turtles land for laying eggs. This occasionally happens during the month of March till September annually.
Golden Beach
It’s a ‘Beach of Wonders’. The splendid long stretch of golden sand gives it name ‘Golden Beach’. From the Park Office to the beach is about 10 km walks. It is again the suitable place for the turtles to land and lay eggs.
Sebubong Pool
It is a natural pool at the sebubong River. It can only be reached by mean of fast boat as there is no existing rail connecting from the Park Office.
Nature Trails
Main Trails (Red mark)
This trails cover a total distance of 9.8 km reaching the Golden Beach can be reached by jungle trekking of about three to four journey (single trip) and about 7 to 8 hours return trip. Can also be reached by fast boat of about forty minutes
Education Trail (Green mark)
Consists of 2 parts. One is 450m plankwalk along the mangrove forest and another is 600m jungle trail. It is so called Education trail because it is nearby the Park Office and suitable for any interest Parties especially students to know more about tree species.
Circular Trail (Red/Whites mark)
This trail start from the end of the mangrove plankwalk with a loping shape and later meet the main trail at 0.5km with a total distance of 1.7km.
Batu Anchau Trail (White mark)
With a total distance of 2.1km and ends up at the Batu Anchau (Bare Rock Surface).
View Point (Red/Yellow mark)
It is about 280km length where the view point is sited. It can be reached about 20 minutes walk from the Park Office.
Selunsur Rapid (Yellow mark)
With a total distance of 5km from the Park Office and another 1.9km to the end of the trail to reach the Selunsur Rapid. It takes about 2 hours journey (single trip) and 4 hours for the return journey.
Sebubong Pool (Red mark)
This trail starts from the sebubong River mouth and ends at the Pool. Iy can only be reached from the Park office by fast boat.
Interesting
Activities
Jungle Trekking
For nature lovers, Similajau National Park provides an nature trails. As you trek along the trail you will feel the tranquility of the forest. You are not lonely but are entertained by the music from the friendly insects and beautiful whistling of the birds. The thick forest canopies provide you with fresh air and shades as you walk along.
Bird Watching
If you love watching, please bring along a pair of powerful binoculars, zoom-lens cameras and pocket guide book
There are plenty of birds (both small, medium and large birds) around the park. Notably the black hornbills are always around.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling can be carried out along the shore line of the Park beaches. There are plenty of rocks where we can see different kinds of marine life such as Lobsters, shells, Crab, Fishes. Do not forget to bring along your own equipment as Pak Office does not provide any.
Barbecuing
There are 20 units of concrete barbecue sets to cater the visitors who love barbecuing. You have to bring along a wire mesh and charcoal / briquette to do the barbecue. The canteen is available to cater foods and drinks.
Crocodile Sighting
Crocodile sighting can only be carried out at night. A chartered boat is required to sneak the crocodile along the Likau River. Please use a powerful torch or spot light the eyes of the crocodile. If you’re lucky you might be able to see the whole reptiles figure.
Sea and River cruising
Fast boat can be arranged privately. The charges for the cruise depend much on the distance and time taken during the trip. At the moment river cruise usually carried out along Likau River and Sea cruise to Batu Mandi and as far as Golden Beach.
Education & Research
Nature lovers need to know more about Similajau National Park. The Park posses unique rock features along the shorelines and also at least 7 Forest Types. At the moment we have established one unit of Education trail whereby students & nature lovers learn to know more about forest type, flora and fauna as well.
Swimming & Picnicking
Swimming and picnicking and also family gathering are usually carried out at the beach in front of the Park Office.
Others Facilities
Other facilities include jungle trails, public toilets and washrooms, canteen, information centre and 24- hour electricity. There are four types of accommodation available at the Park.
Booking of accommodation can be done direct to the Park Office or through visitors information Cnetres in Miri or Kuching. Advanced bookings are always encouraged as to avoid disappointment especially during festive seasons, school holidays and weekends.
Similajau National Park Contact Number:
Tel No: (6) 082 - 391284
Fax No: (6) 082 - 391251
or contact us
Forest Lodge, Type 5 (Chalet Class III)
Five units with 2 rooms and eight single beds each. Altogether they are 40 single beds are ready to accommodate the overnight visitors. Equip with ceiling fans, 1 unit of refrigerator, a set of settee and attached bathroom. These chalets are all facing the sea views.
Accommodation Rate;
RM 100.00 per room
RM 150.00 per chalet
Forest Lodge, Type 6 (Drive-in Chalet)
Two units are available for rent at the moment. Equip with standing fans and 2 units of single beds in each room. This double-storey chalet is also is also attached with 2 units of bathroom both downstairs and upstairs. Is suitable for a small group of four at one time.
Accommodation Rate;
RM 50.00 per room
RM 75.00 per Chalet
Forest Hostel (Hostel 2)
Four rooms with 16 double-bunker beds are available at present. Sharing common verandah and bathrooms. Equip with wall fans, lockers and wardrobes. One unit of mini refrigerators is available for simple foods and drinks.
Accommodation Rate;
RM 15.00 per bed
RM 40.00 per room
RM 160.00 per hostel
Forest Hostel (Hostel 3)
Eighteen rooms with 72 double bunker beds. Spacious sitting room equips with set of settee and rotating wall fans. The sitting room can be used for meeting / conference and can accommodate about 80 persons at a time. Attach with separated male and female toilets and spacious dining room. Often fully booked during festive season, school holidays and weekends.
Accommodation Rate;
RM 15.00 per bed
RM 40.00 per room
RM 720.00 per hostel
Camp Site
The Park does not provide any camps or tents for rent except the camp sites. Any groups or individual who intend to do camping in the park are advised to bring along their own camp / tents. Camping charge is RM 5.00 per head per night.
How to get there?
There are many ways to reach the Park;
1. Own transport
2. Taxi:
From Bintulu town to the Park RM 40.00 per trip
From Bintulu Airport to the Park RM 65.00 per trip
3. Bus
Public bus services are carried out by Syarikat Bus Bintulu Sdn Bhd. (SBBS). The buses that ply between the Bintulu Town to the junction of the road leading to the Pak (RH Jarau) is labeled with Sungai Plant Lot. The fare is RM 18.00 for one trip. For information you are not reaching the Park yet and you have to get another of transport to cover another 9km to reach the Park Office. You many walk on foot or used private transport.
4. Boat
If you wish to reach the Park by the sea you may fast boat Bintulu Town. It costs you RM 200.00 per trip.
* All fares and charges are due to changes, last date arquire 19 June 2003
Food
There is a canteen selling simple meals, drinks and daily basic necessities.
Many visitors bring their own picnics and meals to the park.
* NO COOKING ARE ALLOWED INSIDE THE CHALET/HOSTEL
Reminder
While swimming is popular along the beaches of the Park, saltwater
crocodiles do inhabit the waters of the nearby Likau River, so be careful!
For booking and further enquiry, please contact us
or
for On-line booking click http://ebooking.com.my