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
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Niah National Park |
| Location | Muara Subis, Miri Division, Sarawak, Malaysia |
| Established | 1974 |
| Area | 3,138 hectares |
| GPS Position | 3.8128° N, 113.7500° E |
| State | Sarawak |
| Main Entry Point | Niah National Park HQ (via Niah River boat) |
| Distance from Miri | ~110 km (2-hour drive) |
| Distance from Bintulu | ~120 km (2-hour drive) |
| Access to Caves | Boat + 3.5 km plankwalk |
| Operating Hours | Daily, 8AM – 5PM |
| Best Time to Visit | March to October (dry season) |
| Accommodation | Chalets, hostels, nearby homestays |
| Key Attractions | Great Cave, Painted Cave, Trader’s Cave, Moon Cave |
| Wildlife | Bats, swiftlets, geckos, hornbills, monkeys |
| Activities | Caving, archaeology, birdwatching, photography |
| Facilities | Visitor center, trails, boat service, restrooms |
Contact Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Photography & Filming Permit | Required for professional use; arrange in advance with the National Park Booking Office |
| Counter Operating Hours (Park HQ) | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monday–Sunday, including Public Holidays) |
| Contact – Niah National Park | Tel: 085-737450 / 085-737454 |
| Corporate Office – Kuching | Lot 218, KCLD, Jalan Tapang, Kota Sentosa, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia |
| Phone (Corporate) | +60 82-610088 |
| Fax | +60 82-610099 |
| Toll-Free | 1800-88-2526 |
| info@sarawakforestry.com | |
| Operating Hours (Corporate Office) | Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:45 AM & 2:15 PM – 5:00 PM Saturday–Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed |
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.
Summary
- Attraction: Niah National Park
- Location: #Sarawak
- Attraction Type: #NationalPark #Cave
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