Niah National Park

Step into the shadows of time at Niah National Park, where 40,000 years of human history echo through vast limestone caverns. From ancient cave paintings to rare geckos and moonlit rainforest walks, Niah is a living museum of nature, culture, and mystery.

Why Visit

Niah isn’t just a park—it’s a portal. A place where archaeology, biodiversity, and indigenous culture converge in a single, unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or curious traveler, Niah’s Great Cave and Painted Cave will leave you awestruck.

Explore the Caves of Time

The Great Cave

• One of the world’s most spectacular cave entrances (60m high, 250m wide)
• Archaeological site of 40,000-year-old human remains
• Home to bats, swiftlets, and Penan bird’s nest collectors

Moon Cave (Gan Kira)

• A pitch-black passage with surreal rock formations
• Flashlight essential—this is where the cave whispers its secrets

Painted Cave (Gua Kain Hitam)

• Prehistoric wall art and ancient burial site
• View boat-shaped coffins and haunting cave paintings

Trader’s Cave

• Historic overhang where guano and bird’s nest traders once bartered
• A glimpse into the economic history of the caves

Nature Trails & Wildlife

Bukit Kasut Trail

• A steep climb with panoramic views of the rainforest canopy

Madu Trail

• A gentler walk through lush jungle, ideal for birdwatching

Wildlife Encounters

• Niah Cave Gecko (endemic to Borneo)
• Roundleaf bats, hornbills, flying lizards, and butterflies
• Monkeys and squirrels often spotted along the plankwalk

Trails

Bukit Kasut Trail (Green & White Markings)

• Duration: ~45 minutes
• Terrain: Primary rainforest → Kerangas forest → limestone cliffs
• Highlights: Cliff vegetation, panoramic canopy views
• Difficulty: Moderate to steep

Madu Trail (Red & White Markings)

• Duration: ~1 hour
• Terrain: Alluvial and peat swamp forest along Sungai Subis
• Highlights: Wild orchids, giant pandanus, mushrooms
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Caves of Niah: A Prehistoric Wonder

The Great Cave

• 60m high, 250m wide entrance
• Archaeological site with 40,000-year-old human remains
• Home to bats, swiftlets, and Penan bird’s nest collectors

Moon Cave (Gan Kira)

• Dark passage with surreal rock formations
• Flashlight essential for navigation and photography

Painted Cave (Gua Kain Hitam)

• Ancient wall art and boat-shaped burial coffins
• Peaceful, spiritual atmosphere

Trader’s Cave

• Historic trading site for guano and bird’s nests
• Large rock overhang with cultural significance

Getting There & Around

• From Miri or Bintulu: ~2-hour drive to park HQ
• Cross Niah River: Short boat ride
• Walk to Great Cave: 3.5 km plankwalk through primary rainforest
• Optional: Visit nearby Iban longhouse homestay

By Taxi

• ~1.5 hours from Miri city
• Direct and convenient

By Bus

• Take Bus No. 33A to Pujut Corner Terminal
• Transfer to any bus heading to Bintulu, Sibu, or Kuching
• Disembark at Niah Rest Stop

From Simpang Ngu Niah to Park HQ (~3 km)

• Option 1: Motorized longboat through jungle scenery
• Option 2: Taxi (recommended during rain)
• Option 3: 45-minute riverside walk (note: back gate closes at 6:00 PM)

Where to Stay

• Inside the Park: Basic chalets and hostel rooms
• Nearby: Homestays and guesthouses in Batu Niah town
• Tip: Stay overnight to witness the bat exodus and swiftlet return at dusk

Accommodation & Facilities

• Chalets – Private units with basic amenities
• Hostel-style Rooms – Budget-friendly shared lodging
• Camping Site – For adventurous travelers
• Note: No cooking facilities; electricity and water available 24/7

For bookings, contact the National Parks Booking Office in Miri. Counter Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Daily, including Public Holidays)

Quick Facts at a Glance

Contact Information

What Visitors Say

“Walking into the Great Cave felt like stepping into another world. The silence, the scale, the history—it gave me chills.” – Daniel T., Australia

“The Painted Cave was hauntingly beautiful. I couldn’t stop thinking about the people who lived here thousands of years ago.” – Nurul A., Malaysia

“We saw bats, geckos, and even a hornbill! The plankwalk was peaceful and full of surprises.” – Liam & Zoe, UK

Plan Your Adventure Today

Niah National Park is more than a destination—it’s a story written in stone, bone, and silence. Whether you’re chasing ancient echoes or rare wildlife, Niah will move you in ways you didn’t expect. Ready to explore? Book your trip with a trusted local operator or start planning your Sarawak itinerary now.