Gunung Gading National Park
Home to the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, this park offers rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rafflesia blooms are unpredictable
Gunung Gading National Park
Best Time
Rafflesia blooms are unpredictable
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, this park offers rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
"A true gem near Kuching, ideal for a rejuvenating day trip or tranquil overnight escape."
🎯 Check Rafflesia Bloom Status
Call park HQ or check social media for bloom updates before your visit. It's a rare sight!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and rocky; good grip is essential for safety and comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rafflesia Tuan-Mudae Bloom
Various locations within the park
Witness the world's largest flower, a rare and fleeting spectacle of nature's grandeur.
Waterfall 1 & 3
Accessible trails
Enjoy refreshing swims in clean jungle pools, perfect for families and a quick cool-down.
Gunung Gading Summit Trail
Summit trail
Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit for panoramic rainforest views and distant coastal glimpses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Rafflesia Bloom Timing is Key
Pack Smart for Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Rafflesia Bloom Status
Call park HQ or check social media for bloom updates before your visit. It's a rare sight!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and rocky; good grip is essential for safety and comfort. 
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No food or drink facilities inside the park. Stay hydrated and fueled for your trek.
👙 Pack Swimwear
The waterfall pools are perfect for a cooling swim after your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Rafflesia Bloom Status
Call park HQ or check social media for bloom updates before your visit. It's a rare sight!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and rocky; good grip is essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No food or drink facilities inside the park. Stay hydrated and fueled for your trek.
👙 Pack Swimwear
The waterfall pools are perfect for a cooling swim after your hike.
🦟 Don't Forget Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other bugs in the jungle environment.
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Kuching
Just a 1-1.5 hour drive, making it an ideal escape from the city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gunung Gading National Park is praised as a natural gem near Kuching, offering unique Rafflesia sightings, refreshing waterfall swims, and well-maintained hiking trails for all levels. While the park's natural beauty and accessibility are highly appreciated, some visitors note that the accommodation facilities could benefit from better maintenance.
"Gunung Gading National Park is a true gem just a short 1–1.5 hour drive from Kuching — ideal for a rejuvenating day trip or tranquil overnight escape 🌿.
❤️Star Attraction – Rafflesia
Hub of the famed Rafflesia tuan-mudae, the world’s largest flower (~1 m across), which unpredictably blooms for only a few fleeting days . Even viewing an unfurled flower is a magical experience etched in memory.
🚶 Trails & Waterfalls
A well-marked network of hiking paths leads to several waterfalls—Waterfall 1 and 3 are gentle, 30 minutes in for all ages, while the final waterfall (“Waterfall 7”) offers a more adventurous trek . Many visitors rave about swimming in the clear jungle pools:
“Waterfall 1 (30 min from entrance)… suitable for beginners and children too. The water is clean for swimming” .
🌄 Summit & Scenic Views
For fit hikers, the summit trail to Gunung Gading (~906 m) rewards you with stunning views of lush rainforest and glimpses of Pandan and Siar beaches .
🌿 Rich Biodiversity & Wildlife
Beyond the floral marvels, the park hosts a rich ecosystem of pitcher plants, orchids, hornbills, macaques, civets, and more . It’s a walkers’ classroom in tropical biodiversity.
🏕 Facilities & Tips
• Entry fee: RM10 (Sarawakians), RM20 (others) 
• Open 8 AM–5 PM daily 
• Basic chalets, dorms, camping, toilets available near the entrance and waterfalls 
• No shops/cafés—bring your own food, water, insect repellent, sturdy shoes, and swimwear
• For Rafflesia fans, check in advance—park HQ or guides often know when blooms are imminent 
✅ Why I Love It
• Close to Kuching: Under 2 hours door-to-door makes it a perfect break from city bustle.
• Accessible Trails: Options for families, moderate adventurers, and serious hikers alike.
• Unique Nature: From rare flowers to serene waterfalls, every corner feels immersive and alive.
• Affordable & Authentic: Well-kept, affordable entry and neat facilities—it’s all about the nature, not flashy tourist trappings.
🫶🏻🫶🏻: Whether you’re chasing the legendary Rafflesia bloom or just craving a day of forest bathing by waterfall pools, Gunung Gading delivers in spades. A relaxed day-hike, refreshing swims, and the thrill of spotting rare flora make for an unforgettable Sarawakian adventure. Be sure to stay fueled, wear proper gear, and check on flower bloom updates before you trek!"
Alwin Lawrence
"The park, the trail & the forest is superb.
4 star is due to the lack of maintenance on the facilities provided for the accommodation.
Hostel bed is very clean, so is the bath room despite the age, kudos to the staff for excellent job, basic kitchen means sink & fridge only.
Enjoyed my stay visiting the beautiful waterfalls & forest."
Swee Keng Aw
"This National Park hiking trails seems hard because of the trail with stones, incline trails and steep yet for beginners. Worth for the lovely falls. Rafflesia is seasonal here. Get update about the blooming Rafflesia at Gunung Gading National Park official page in Instagram or Facebook."
03 DARSHINI ANNAPANDIAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gunung Gading National Park is located about 1 to 1.5 hours drive from Kuching. You can hire a taxi or rent a car for the journey. Many visitors opt for a day trip, as it's easily accessible.
Yes, basic chalets and dormitories are available for overnight stays near the park entrance and waterfalls. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The park is best explored on foot via its well-marked hiking trails. For reaching the waterfalls and summit, hiking is the primary mode of transport.
While taxis and private car rentals are common, public transport options might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider ride-sharing services if available.
The park is conveniently located just five minutes from Lundu town, making it easy to access after reaching Lundu.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is RM10 for Sarawakians and RM20 for non-Sarawakians. These fees contribute to the park's maintenance and conservation efforts.
The park is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, allowing ample time for day visitors to explore its trails and attractions.
For general park entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to stay overnight in the chalets or dorms, it's highly recommended to book in advance.
No special permits are generally required for regular visitors. The entrance fee covers access to the park's main attractions and trails.
While some trails are accessible, the park's terrain can be challenging. Waterfall 1 is more accessible, but the summit trail is strenuous. Check with park management for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Rafflesia blooms unpredictably and only lasts a few days. It's best to check with the park office or their social media for recent bloom sightings before your visit. +1
The park offers a network of well-marked trails ranging from easy walks to challenging summit climbs. Waterfall 1 and 3 are beginner-friendly, while the summit trail is for experienced hikers. +1
Yes, the pools at Waterfall 1 and 3 are clean and suitable for swimming, offering a refreshing break during your hike.
The park is rich in biodiversity, with chances to spot pitcher plants, orchids, hornbills, macaques, and civets.
While trails are marked, it's always safer to hike with a companion or inform someone of your plans. The park is generally safe, but being prepared is key.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no shops or cafes within the park. Visitors are advised to bring their own food, snacks, and drinks.
Lundu town, located just a few minutes away, offers local eateries and food stalls where you can find refreshments and meals.
Yes, picnicking is allowed, especially near the waterfall areas. It's a great way to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Lundu town offers a variety of local Sarawakian cuisine, including seafood and traditional Malay dishes.
Absolutely. Bringing packed lunches and plenty of water is highly recommended to ensure you have sustenance throughout your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers numerous photo opportunities, from the unique Rafflesia flowers and lush rainforest to the scenic waterfalls and panoramic summit views.
Yes, but be respectful of the flower and its surroundings. Avoid touching or damaging it. The bloom is fleeting, so timing is crucial.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife and distant landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the rainforest and waterfalls.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. It's best to check with park authorities for their specific drone policy.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of the flora.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and insect repellent. While the Rafflesia is a rare sighting, the general experience of exploring the jungle, seeing different plants, and enjoying the waterfalls can be very engaging for children. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed for your family.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and water to save on expenses, as there are no dining facilities within the park. The main cost will be transportation to and from Kuching. This park offers a great value for nature lovers seeking an authentic experience without breaking the bank.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Hikers can choose from easy walks to challenging summit climbs. The trails offer a great way to immerse yourself in the rainforest environment. Remember to wear appropriate gear, stay hydrated, and be prepared for varying terrain. Checking for Rafflesia blooms beforehand will enhance the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Chasing the Elusive Rafflesia
Seeing a Rafflesia in bloom is a rare and magical experience. The sheer size of the flower, often exceeding a meter in diameter, is awe-inspiring. Its unique, pungent smell is also a characteristic feature, earning it the nickname 'corpse flower' in some regions. The thrill of spotting this elusive giant amidst the lush rainforest is a highlight for many nature enthusiasts visiting Sarawak.
Remember that the Rafflesia is a delicate organism. Visitors are urged to observe from a respectful distance and avoid touching or disturbing the flower. The park's conservation efforts are vital for protecting this endangered species, and responsible tourism plays a significant role in ensuring its survival for future generations.
Hiking Trails and Waterfall Wonders
Slightly more challenging is the trail to Waterfall 3, offering a pleasant trek through the jungle. For the more adventurous, the trek to Waterfall 7 presents a more strenuous climb, rewarding hikers with a more secluded and impressive cascade. Many visitors rave about the opportunity to swim in the clear, cool waters of these jungle pools, making it an ideal way to cool off after a hike.
The ultimate challenge for fit hikers is the summit trail to Gunung Gading, which stands at approximately 905 meters. This demanding trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lush rainforest and, on clear days, glimpses of Pandan and Siar beaches. Proper footwear and adequate hydration are essential for this more arduous journey.
Biodiversity and Wildlife Spotting
The park is also home to a range of wildlife. Birdwatchers may be lucky enough to spot hornbills soaring through the canopy. You might also encounter macaques swinging through the trees, or perhaps catch a glimpse of more elusive creatures like civets. The dense rainforest provides a vital habitat for these animals, making the park a significant area for conservation.
Even if you don't spot large mammals, the sheer variety of insects, butterflies, and smaller creatures adds to the immersive experience of being in a thriving tropical rainforest. The park serves as a living classroom, offering a glimpse into the complex web of life that thrives in this environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit