A cave can bring us back thousands of years with vivid depictions of how the early civilisation lived. In Malaysia, you can find several prehistoric caves - one of which has left traces of a 40,000-year-old human remains. This location is known as Gua Niah, and it is a treasure hidden in the country's very own backyard!

Read also: Everything You Need to Know About Gua Kelam in Perlis, Malaysia

Gua Niah is located within the Niah National Park in Miri, Sarawak. It was nominated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010 and 2019. Not long ago, five pieces of microlithic tools claimed to be dating back to 65,000 years ago were unearthed, giving the world a clearer understanding of when human occupation begun at this site.

History buffs can appreciate the fact that Gua Niah is a valuable archaeological site. Nature lovers will definitely adore the rich flora and fauna here in the majestic rainforest. Adventure seekers can look forward to exploring this great cave that boasts extraordinary cave paintings. All in all, Gua Niah is an incredible destination for every type of traveller.

The adventure begins with a 4-kilometre walk to the opening of Gua Niah, which is recognised as one of the world's largest cave entrance. The trail is relatively easy and the air is fresh, and you will be soothed by the sounds of the surrounding rainforest. You might also spot some extremely cute animals during your walk, so do have your camera ready!

As you begin your journey into the cave, you will soon come across a unique rock formation called the Trader’s Cave.  The catchy name comes from the fact that this was the spot where guano and bird's nest traders did their business.

Next, you will reach the West Mouth or Lobang Kuala of this Great Cave where you will most definitely be astounded. Standing at 60 metres high and 250 metres wide, it makes a magnificent spot for photography.

For the faint-hearted, do not be afraid when you hear bats and swiftlets flying or swirling around you. This sound might remind you of a horror movie, but what awaits you is quite the opposite: a nature's paradise.

As you walk down further, you would soon reach a large chamber called the ‘Padang’. Here, you will certainly be reminded of the saying ‘light at the end of the tunnel.’ In this glorious space, you will see rays of sunlight bursting through holes in the roof. The light will reflect off the rock formations, and you will be amazed by the raw and incredible beauty of nature.

As your walk progresses further, you will soon reach the Moon Cave or the Gan Kira. Be warned, it is pitch-black here and you might be tempted to walk quickly. There are several wonderful rock formations here, so use your torchlight and make sure that you do not miss out on these stunning products of nature.

As you continue walking, you will soon reach the entrance of the Painted Cave. If you are curious about the name of this part of the cave, you are right to do so! It was right here where several remarkable cave paintings made by prehistoric humans were found! Seeing these paintings with your own eyes will probably be the icing on top of this sweet adventure. 

Knowing that these paintings were created by the very hands of the humans who lived here so long ago, and to have these paintings survive the test of time, would take your breath away. The paintings are rendered in red hematite. As you walk down the 30-metre strip, take time to admire the paintings of humans, animals, and longboats. The longboats are believed to carry the souls of those who have passed away and transporting them into another world. A human skull was also discovered here and is believed to date all the way back to 38,000 years BCE! Ceramics, pottery items and irons were also found. Another remarkable find here is the ‘death ships' which are are actually coffins for the dead. Although the content of the death ships has since been transferred to the Sarawak Museum, you can still view the original burial plots.

You may opt to take a taxi from Miri directly to the Niah National Park, which is approximately a 90-minute journey. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the Miri Bus Station to Batu Niah, which will be a two-hour journey.

From Batu Niah, the headquarters of the park is approximately 3 kilometres away. You can hop onto a taxi to the park. Another option would be walking to the headquarters of the park. It will take you approximately 45 minutes, and it will be a beautiful one, as you will be journeying along the riverbank. Lastly, you may opt to take a longboat there.

Another option is to put on your adventure hat and drive all the down from Miri to the Niah National Park! There is no better way to get to know a place than by driving down scenic routes and taking in the beautiful views! Upon reaching the Niah National Park, you are required to register at the headquarters. Below are the ticket prices for your reference.

There are also accommodations at the Niah National Park if you would like to stay the night. This includes chalet units, hostel rooms, and even a camping site. Simply make your booking in advance!

Walking through this incredible cave will give you a glimpse of how our ancestors lived, and perhaps you will gain a newfound appreciation of how these ancestors have paved the way for our lives now. History reminds us of who we are but how our future will turn out actually lies in our hands. It will also remind you how there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

Address: Niah National Park, Batu Niah, 98200 Niah, Sarawak, Malaysia

Contact number: +6085-737454 / +6085-737450

Opening Hours: 8am to 5pm

Malaysia is finally moving into the endemic phase. It’s time to bring your family out for some fun and excitement – but remember to keep it local! Check out our list of the top ice-skating rinks across the country for a unique experience like no others.

Read also: Top 10 Theme Parks in Malaysia

IceScape Ice Rink is located on the first floor of IOI City Mall. It is officially known as the biggest ice rink in Malaysia. From leisure skating to speed skating and ice hockey, Malaysia's largest ice surface has it all. Do not worry if you don’t have ice-skating accessories - they got you covered! You can easily rent gloves, socks, lockers, and even Penguin Skating Aid. While skating, you must keep your socks and gloves on at all times. Other facilities provided include washroom, surau, skating equipment shop, coaching services, vending machines, and more.

Read more: Icescape Ice Rink at IOI City Mall Putrajaya

Address: Level 1, IOI City Mall, Lebuh IRC, IOI Resort City 62502 Putrajaya

Ticket price: RM28 (Weekday), RM33 (Weekend, public holidays, school holiday)

Opening hours: 10am – 10pm

Are you living in Damansara? Don’t be surprised that there is an ice-skating rink right here at the Royale Chulan Hotel! The rink may not be as large, but it is still a decent size and provides a pleasant view of the greenery right outside of the hotel. This is definitely the best place for a staycation with your family. It is not only open for the hotel guests but also to the public. Hotel with swimming pool? Nah, that’s too common! Let’s hit the ice-skating rink instead! 

Address: The Royale Chulan Damansara, 2, Jalan PJU 7/3, Mutiara Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Ticket price: RM30 (Weekday), RM35 (Weekend)

Opening hours: 10am – 10pm (Temporarily closed)

If you’re staying in Johor Bahru and crave for some chilly adventure, head to Paradigm Mall now! The good news about this branch in JB is that it does not only offer classes for ice-skating, but you can also sign up for ice hockey lessons there! There’s no need to travel out of your city when you can find the first and largest ice-skating rink on your home ground! 

Address: 3F-30 Paradigm Mall Johor, Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, 81200, Johor.

Opening hours: 10am – 10pm

Another Blue Ice-Skating Rink is now open in Kuala Lumpur! This branch is bigger in size which is perfect for group activities. Not only that, dear foodies, this might be a motivation for you to start ice-skating while indulging in good food as the rink is flanked by a number of restaurants - where you can relax and dine in between sessions!

Address: G1-21, Ground Floor 1, KL East Mall, 823, Jalan Lingkaran Tengah 2, 53100 Kuala Lumpur.

Opening hours: 10am – 10pm

Sunway Pyramid Ice is the first and the most popular ice-skating rink in Malaysia. Anxious about falling clumsily? There are several professional trainers on-site who will guide you until you're able to skate like a pro! It is advisable to come on weekdays to avoid the crowd - while enjoying cheaper rates!

Address: 3, Jalan PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor. 

Ticket price: RM20 (Weekdays), RM25 (Weekends), RM28 (Public holidays)

Accessories price: Gloves – RM6, Socks – RM9

Opening hours: 10am – 7.30pm

Address: Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Pusat Bandar, 2, Persiaran Jalil Utama, Bukit Jalil 57000 Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a quick chilly escape? Try these popular ice-skating rinks in Malaysia!

Don't forget to share your ice-skating moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace!

There are many hidden attractions in Langkawi. If you are an adventurous soul looking for places which are off the beaten track, you can make your way to the Kubang Badak Biogeotrail. This recently designated area is located within the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, which comprises of the surrounding 99 islands of the archipelago. Kubang Badak is a former quaint fishing community situated approximately 30 kilometres away from the town of Kuah.

Read also: 8 Must-Try Restaurants in Langkawi, Kedah

The newly established Kubang Badak Biogeotrail is home to several natural wonders in the region. There are 12 main attractions developed and made accessible to the public here, giving you the opportunity to see and learn about the island's geotourism sites that are exclusive to this area. It is also a part of Langkawi's ongoing efforts in facilitating sustainable development through science-based recreation.

The village of Kubang Badak is host to a unique tidal river estuary ecosystem that is blossoming with geological diversity, a variety of mangrove species, and a distinctive cultural history thanks to the early settlements of the Siamese community. Selected as a Biogeotrail, it is the latest geotourism product in Langkawi. Just recently, this site was awarded the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold Award 2021 in the Heritage category.

The guono or bat droppings collected here is used as a fertiliser by the local communities in the farms. During the visit, you can watch the bats in their natural habitat, clinging onto the soaring ceilings within the pitch-black chambers.

During the cruise, you will have the opportunity to see the magnificent White-bellied sea eagles and Brahminy Kites (also known as Red-backed sea-eagles) enroute to the islands. These large apex predators soar proudly and freely in the blue sky, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone traveling at this geosite.

Before heading out to the sea for a tour around the islands, the Biogeotrail takes you through a picturesque cruise along the Siam River where you get to see the spectacular mangrove forests at the vast Kilim Geoforest Park.

Complete your trip to the Kubang Badak Biogeotrail with a meal at the Crab Farm Langkawi, located next to the jetty. Here, you can taste the freshest and most delicious Mee Ketam which features the Giant Mud crabs or Ketam Nipah which are grown on site. Alternatively, you can also experience crab farming first hand for a glimpse into the lives of the fishermen.

Kubang Badak is covered mostly by mangroves, particularly two types of red mangrove species known as Rhizophora apiculata or Bakau Minyak (tall-stilt mangroves) and R. mucronata or Bakau Kurap (loot-root mangroves) - both which are typically used to produce charcoals. These are among the 45 mangrove species growing on sandbars and ancient tidal flat in this region. This biogeotrail is also rich in terrestrial fauna, such as the white belly eagles, red eagles, spectacle monkeys, monitor lizards, and many more. By joining the tour, you can trek the mangrove forest reserve by boat as well as by foot.

Top 10 Theme Parks In Malaysia

Top 10 Theme Parks In Malaysia

Legoland Malaysia Resort, Johor

Legoland is Malaysia’s first international theme park, which brings together a theme park, a water park and a hotel on an entirely lego-themed location. In addition, the brand new Sea Life Malaysia now offers visitors an oceanic experience through interactive displays and hands-on encounters!

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Opening hours: 10am-5pm (Monday to Thursday), 10am-6pm (Friday to Saturday). Closed on Wednesdays

Address: 7 Jalan Legoland, Bandar Medini Iskandar Malaysia 79250 Johor Bahru

Have you visited Malaysia's first international theme park? Photo by LEGOLAND Malaysia

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Selangor

Home to Asia’s first Nickelodeon-themed destination, Sunway Lagoon is also ranked among the Top 5 Water Parks in Asia. It has six different sections, including the water park, amusement park, wildlife park, scream park, extreme park, and the Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. You can further enjoy parades, live performances and special character appearances during your visit!

Monsoon 360 at Sunway Lagoon Photo by Sunway Lagoon

Escape Theme Park, Penang

Escape currently holds the Guinness World Records for the longest tube water slide in the world at 1,111 metres! Built among a natural environment, this theme park focuses on the simple yet exciting rides, games and activities of yesteryear such as

Longest tube water slide in the world Photo by Escape Theme Park

Resorts World Genting Theme Park, Pahang

Welcome to one of the world’s most renowned City of Entertainment, where you are invited to enjoy non-stop fun at the brand new Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park spanning over 400,000 square feet. If that isn’t enough, hop over to SnowWorld for some icey fun, The Void for realistic and themed VR games, or visit Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Adventureland.

Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park Photo by Resorts World Genting

Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, Kuala Lumpur

Located in the heart of the city, this 133,000-square-feet theme park comes with countless thrilling rides and games. Adrenaline junkies must not miss out the Supersonic Odyssey which is the longest multiple-inverted roller coaster in Asia Pacific, or the Spinning Orbit which rotates 10 rounds per minute!

Spinning Orbit Photo by Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

A’Famosa Resort Water Theme Park, Melaka

Spend the holidays in a Red Indian and safari themed destination that also comes with a water theme park. Hop onto a safari truck to explore the wildlife habitats and take a ride down one of Southeast Asia’s tallest water slides!

A'Famosa Resort Water Park Photo by A'Famosa Resort

i-City Theme Park, Selangor

Looking for a different kind of adventure? This “light” park may get your attention! The one-of-a-kind i-City theme park is brightly illuminated with more than one million LED lights! Those with extra time on hand can visit the SnoWalk, The Red Carpet, WaterWorld, House of Horror or the Trick Art Museum!

Lost World of Tambun, Perak

Have tonnes of splashing fun and grab the opportunity to see animals up close at the Lost World of Tambun which comes with a water park, amusement park, petting zoo, night park and many more attractions for live shows and rides!

This theme park even comes with a zoo! Photo by Sunway Lost World Of Tambun

Bukit Gambang Resort City, Pahang

This integrated resort resort city comes with a safari and a water park that sprawls across 727 acres. Not only do you get to see the Malayan tigers, white lions, bears and spotted hyenas, you are also invited to have a meal amongst the lions in a glass house setting for a unique dining experience unlike any other!

Exploration on a tram! Photo by Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, Johor

With a Malay village as the backdrop, this waterpark comes with both dry and wet rides for visitors of all ages. It is home to the Tidal Wave Beach, which is one of the world’s largest wave pools, as well as other attractions such as Kraken’s Revenge, Riptide and Surf Wall. The theme park is located within the Desaru Coast in an integrated resort destination.

Happy traveling!

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