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Crocker National Park
Written by Vengatesh on November 14, 2022 Share on

Crocker Range National Park: A Complete Guide for 2024 Vacation!

If you ask whether there are places to visit in Malaysia, most people think there are no places to visit in Malaysia other than Genting Island or KL Tower. Certainly yes, there are places that Malaysia tourism offers, which include mountain ranges that are spread across one of the most beautiful biodiverse mountain ranges in Sabah, Crocker Range National Park. As a major biodiversity site you can explore it on Malaysia tour package as these rivers supply clean drinking water to the people of the western coast and the interior of Sabah.

The Crocker Range Park is the largest park in Sabah, covering deep river valleys, pristine rivers, jungle waterfalls, and misty mountain forests, along with a diverse range of plant and animal kingdoms, promising great adventures for those who love challenges. You can visit Sabah Mount Kinabalu, located within Kinabalu Park, on their list of things to do. However, it is worth visiting if you wish to extend your stay in Sabah, which is the Crocker Range Park, located in Keningau, about two hours’ drive from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Crocker Range Park, Mount Kinabalu is part of Crocker Range
Credits: Google Images

The park is part of the Crocker Range, a chain of mountains running along the west of Sabah. Due to its importance as a water catchment area and source of clean water for the entire west coast of Sabah and part of its interior. Your adventures begin at the Crocker Range Park.

The park is located on the island of Borneo, within the state of Sabah. Spanning an area of about 139,919 hectares. The main attraction of Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve covers an area of 3,500 square kilometres, stretching approximately 120 km from north and south, and 40 km east and west, with rich biodiversity throughout many vegetation types from tropical lowland forest to upper montane forest.

Did you know that the Crocker Range is the largest park in Sabah?

The area spreads to 1400 square km. Spans across 8 districts, the park is managed by Sabah Park through 10 substations within the area. Also, the park is highly diverse in its landforms, temperature, conditions and wildlife.

Things to do in Crocker Range National Park

River rafting

Padas River Rafting,
Credits: Google Images

The Padas River offers the best opportunity for white water rafting in the entire Borneo flows through Crocker Range National Park, Sabah. It is one of the top things to do in Malaysia.

Trekking

Mount alab, Crocker Range
Credits: google images

You can hike up Mount Alab which takes you to the highest peak in the Crocker Range, which is Minduk Sirung Peak at 2,050 metres above sea level, where you can enjoy stunning views all around. On the hike down, a dip in the waters of Mahua Waterfall is must refresh yourself. Also, you can walk down 12 km trail that takes you through beautiful streams and mossy forests, with a charming glance to look at some wild orchids and pitcher plants.

Also, another experience is recommended that is hiking on the trail to Mount Trusmadi, the second highest peak in Sabah. A 3-night hike is recommended to fully enjoy the experience here.

If you’re looking for adventurous and an exhilarating jungle trekking experience you can follow the Salt Route.     

Where you get to see a diverse variety of tropical vegetation and wildlife in Crocker Range National Park, Sabah that will not allow you a chance to look upon anywhere else in Borneo. 

Animal Watching

Crocker range forest, orangutans
Credit: Google Images

You always have to watch out for the orangutans, gibbons and the tarsier you might find animals staring at you through their round button-like eyes.  Also, you will find some bears, marble cats and wild hogs might pass you by.

Bird Watching

Birds watching at Crocker range
Credits: Google images

The Crocker Range National Park is also a paradise for birdwatchers. With at least 260 species of birds recorded in the area including bulbuls, sunbirds, woodpeckers, flowerpeckers and hornbills. It boasts of 500 plant species, 107 mammals (including the orangutan, sun bear and clouded leopard), 52 species of reptiles, 500 species of insects, 265 species of birds, and 67 species of frogs.

Visit the Insectarium

Insectarium
Credits: Google images

Visit the Insectarium, where you get to see the 500 species of insects. Residing in the Crocker Range Biosphere, it is only natural for the park to feature an insectarium.
Though it is a short walk on a wooden pathway which takes you through some natural scenic and insect habitations. You can spot a variety of insects during the day time.  

However, if you’re staying at the Crocker Range for a couple of days, a night -the walk is a must because the grounds get buzzing with a huge variety of insects at night. Guided night walks can be done on the spot.

Spotting some of the interesting species in the night is the best because you will find a variety of species, such as stick insects, tarantula spiders, fireflies etc. 

Check out the Fern Garden

The Crocker Range Park is perfect for the ferns which are present within the Biosphere reserve because of the cool climate.

The Fern Garden area within the Crocker Range Park has a variety of ferns which can be found in the region.

The Rafflesia Plot

 Worlds largest Blooming flower.
Credits: Google Images

The Rafflesia is a must, for every traveller this place is a bucket list who are visiting Sabah. Rafflesia is the world’s largest blooming flower, and the astonishing fact is there are no fixed periods for the blooming, and it lasts about only a week.

Getting Here

You can hop into the bus to Keningau, near Merdeka Field in Kota Kinabalu. The Scheduled departures are at 7 am, 8 am, 10 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, and 5 pm and the bus fare to Keningau is about RM16 per person.

You can also opt the taxi from Kota Kinabalu to the Keningau taxi station for RM120 per taxi.

From Keningau station ( Bus/Taxi), you will have to take another taxi to reach the Crocker Range station. The one -way fare is about RM40. However, prices might vary anytime.

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FAQs on Crocker Range National Park

Q: What exactly is Crocker Range National Park?

A: Crocker Range National Park is situated in Malaysia and is a protected area which is home to diverse wildlife, lush rainforests, and stunning landscapes. If you love nature, then make sure you add it to your Malaysia itinerary.

Q: What should I pack for Crocker Range National Park?

A: You can pack items like hiking gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, snacks, extra pair of clothes, water, and power banks.

Q: What type of animals can I expect to see at Crocker Range National Park?

A: You can watch various amazing bird species, mammals, even reptiles and unique insects. Make sure you follow all the guidelines for your safety concern.

Q: Is it possible to camp at the Crocker Range National Park?

A: Yes, you can camp in the national park or even book a stay at nearby hotels and resort, if you want a proper stay with all basic amenities.

Q: Are there any activities available at the Crocker Range National Park?

A: Indeed, You can participate in activities such as trekking, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife spotting, camping, and nature photography and make your visit worth remembering.

So, what do you think? Take a break from your busy life and start planning a visit to Crock Range National Park with your family. It is one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia. Book your customised Malaysia package with Pickyourtrail and experience the adrenaline.

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