Bukit Tabur Selangor Malaysia
Trek along the world's longest quartz ridge for stunning views of Klang Gates Dam and the KL skyline. Hike with caution.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Bukit Tabur Selangor Malaysia
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Trek along the world's longest quartz ridge for stunning views of Klang Gates Dam and the KL skyline. Hike with caution.
"Low altitude, high drama. Nature's way of reminding us that gravity doesn't negotiate."
⚠️ Trail Closure Advisory
The trail is officially closed. Hike at your own risk and be aware of potential fines.
🥾 Essential Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or casual shoes; they are not suitable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views of Klang Gates Dam
Summit
Witness breathtaking vistas of the serene Klang Gates Dam, a stunning contrast to the rugged terrain.
KL Skyline Vista
Summit
Gaze upon the sprawling Kuala Lumpur cityscape, offering a unique perspective of the urban landscape.
World's Longest Quartz Ridge
Entire Ridge
Trek along a unique geological formation, one of the longest quartz ridges globally, with rare flora.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Know Before You Go: Trail Status & Safety
Choosing Your Trailhead & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Trail Closure Advisory
The trail is officially closed. Hike at your own risk and be aware of potential fines.
🥾 Essential Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or casual shoes; they are not suitable.
🧤 Glove Up!
Quartz is sharp! Gloves are highly recommended to protect your hands during climbs.
🚶♀️ Hike with a Buddy
Never hike alone. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Trail Closure Advisory
The trail is officially closed. Hike at your own risk and be aware of potential fines.
🥾 Essential Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or casual shoes; they are not suitable.
🧤 Glove Up!
Quartz is sharp! Gloves are highly recommended to protect your hands during climbs.
🚶♀️ Hike with a Buddy
Never hike alone. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
The path can be poorly maintained. Look for tape markers and use offline maps.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. The sun can be intense.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bukit Tabur offers breathtaking panoramic views and a unique geological experience along its quartz ridge. However, hikers must be aware of its official closure due to safety concerns, with past accidents and fatalities highlighting the risks. The trail is unmaintained and challenging, requiring careful preparation and a buddy system.
"Pristine nature and hillarious vibes on top! Got to the final summit in 2 hrs, climbing part is ez just follow the 3 limbs rule. Ropes are helpful and in fairly good condition. Gloves are recommended though as quartz is sharp..
Going back I took route downhill through the jungle as it was in maps.me. That turned out to be trickiest part as track is not maintained and vegetation is much denser than upside. Basically that part of track doesn't exist atm, doing this again I'd return via the ridge route"
Emir B
"#throwback2015
Stats first: Bukit Tabur, nestled right outside Kuala Lumpur in Taman Melawati, rises to a humble 446 meters above sea level, hardly Himalayan and barely enough to make your ears pop. But don’t let that baby altitude fool you. This wasn’t your average Sunday morning stroll with a bottle of 100 Plus and a camera phone. Bukit Tabur was a razorback quartz ridge (one of the longest in the world).. the kind of terrain that said, “You sure you wanna do this in Converse?”
The views? Outrageous. One side: the serene Klang Gates Dam. The other: KL skyline doing its best impression of SimCity. And from the top, you felt like you’d climbed a dragon’s spine and lived to post about it.
But here’s where the plot thickens. Between 2000 and 2016, over 30 accidents were reported, with at least 7 fatalities – most from falls off steep, exposed cliffs. The most dangerous element? Overconfidence. Many beginners assumed short height = safe hike. Bukit Tabur replied, “Hold my granite.”
The authorities had enough and shut it down in 2016. But because human beings are famously great at following rules (read: they’re not), hikers still sneak in illegally – often solo, often unprepared, sometimes without even telling anyone. It’s like playing hide and seek with death, but you forgot to tell your friends you were playing.
Honestly, it might be time to consider reopening it – legally – but with guard rails, permits, guides, maybe a sign that reads, “This hike doesn’t care about your ego.” Because the view is spectacular. And it’d be nice if everyone who went up also came back down with all their limbs and zero newspaper mentions.
Low altitude, high drama. Nature’s way of reminding us that gravity doesn’t negotiate."
The Compass Guy
"After I did this hike, I found reviews on Trip Advisor noting that the trail has been closed (apparently you can also be fined for doing the trek). No wonder it was so badly maintained! 😂 The trek starts at the marker on Google & does a loop that goes along the top of the cliffs, then proceeds down an embankment & back along the base of the rocks. The path along the top is well-marked however the one along the base is a lot less defined & I ended up accidentally off the path several times. It’s still doable however be prepared for a very poorly defined track (look for the pieces of tape around trees to guide you). Be careful as there have been some deaths on this trail so only attempt this if you’re comfortable navigating rocks at height"
Jeff Robson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bukit Tabur is located in Taman Melawati, Selangor, a short drive from Kuala Lumpur. You can reach the trailheads by car or ride-sharing services. Parking is available near the trail entrances. 
While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can take a bus or LRT to nearby areas and then a taxi or Grab to Bukit Tabur. It's often more convenient to drive or use ride-sharing.
The East trailhead is generally considered more challenging and offers steeper climbs. The West trailhead might be slightly less demanding. Choose based on your fitness level and desired experience.
Yes, there is usually parking available near both the East and West trailheads. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Yes, you can use GPS navigation to find the general area of Bukit Tabur. Search for 'Bukit Tabur East' or 'Bukit Tabur West' for specific trailhead locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bukit Tabur was officially closed in 2016 and is not a managed park. While there are no official tickets, hikers may face fines for trespassing. It's advisable to check the current status before visiting.
As the trail is officially closed, there are no set opening hours. However, for safety and better visibility, it's recommended to hike during daylight hours, ideally early morning.
There is no official entrance fee as the trail is closed. However, be aware of potential fines for unauthorized entry.
Due to the trail's closure and safety concerns, official guided tours are not readily available. If you choose to hike, it's best to go with experienced friends or be extremely well-prepared.
Bukit Tabur was closed in 2016 due to safety issues. While hikers still access it, it's considered an unofficial and potentially risky trail.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bukit Tabur is considered a moderately difficult hike. It involves steep ascents, scrambling over rocks, and exposed ridges. It's not recommended for absolute beginners, especially if hiking alone.
The hike to the summit and back can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your fitness level, the chosen route, and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
There are no facilities like restrooms or water stations at Bukit Tabur. You need to come prepared with all your necessities.
You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Klang Gates Dam on one side and the Kuala Lumpur skyline on the other.
It is strongly advised NOT to hike Bukit Tabur alone due to its challenging terrain and past accident history. Always hike with a companion.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views of the Klang Gates Dam and the KL skyline, perfect for landscape shots. The ridge itself provides dramatic backdrops.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon provides a golden hour glow for dramatic shots of the city and dam.
Drone usage might be restricted or require permits, especially given the proximity to sensitive areas like the dam. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and water.
The unique quartz ridge formations offer interesting textures and shapes. The contrast between the natural landscape and the distant city skyline is a popular subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
+1🚶 Day-Trippers from KL
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Bukit Tabur: A Quartz Wonder
The terrain demands respect. The quartz itself is sharp, making gloves a crucial piece of gear for hikers to avoid cuts and abrasions. The steepness and exposure mean that even a short fall can have serious consequences, which is why the trail was officially closed by authorities in 2016 due to numerous accidents and fatalities.
Despite its closure, the allure of its unique geology and the stunning views continues to draw hikers. Understanding the nature of the quartz ridge is key to appreciating the challenges and beauty of Bukit Tabur, and it underscores the importance of caution and preparation for anyone attempting the hike.
Safety First: Navigating the Risks of Bukit Tabur
Authorities closed the trail in 2016, but hikers continue to access it, often illegally and unprepared. This poses significant risks, as rescue operations can be challenging in the rugged terrain. It's crucial to remember that gravity doesn't negotiate, and the natural environment demands respect.
For those who choose to hike, prioritizing safety is paramount. This includes hiking with a companion, informing someone of your plans, wearing appropriate gear (sturdy shoes, gloves), and being acutely aware of your surroundings. Understanding the trail's history and inherent dangers is the first step towards a safer experience.
Capturing the Majesty: Photography at Bukit Tabur
+1The best times for photography are typically early morning for soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, and late afternoon during the golden hour, which casts a warm glow over the scenery. The sharp quartz ridge itself offers interesting textures and lines, perfect for adding depth and visual interest to your shots.
When planning your photography session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a sturdy tripod for stable shots, especially in lower light conditions. Remember to also be mindful of the terrain and your safety while composing your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit