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Melinau Gorge

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Melinau Gorge is a dramatic limestone canyon carved by the Melinau River in Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia. Towering cliffs, narrow river passages, and lush rainforest scenery make this gorge a scenic highlight for visitors traveling by longboat. It offers a peaceful and visually striking experience, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

What to See & Do

  • 🛥️ Enjoy a longboat ride through narrow limestone canyons where the river is framed by ancient, moss-covered walls 🌊
  • ⛰️ Admire towering cliffs and river-carved rock formations that showcase millions of years of geological history 🏛️
  • 📸 Take scenic photographs from the boat as the emerald jungle reflects off the shifting river currents 🤳
  • 🦅 Spot exotic wildlife including kingfishers, macaques, and the iconic hornbills that nest in the high cliff crevices 🦜
  • 🛶 Combine your visit with Clearwater Cave and Wind Cave tours for a comprehensive look at Mulu’s water-shaped wonders 💎

How to Get There

  • 🚤 Travel by longboat along the Melinau River from park headquarters; the trip takes approximately 20 to 45 minutes ⏱️
  • 🗺️ Pass through Melinau Gorge en route to Wind and Clearwater Caves as part of the park’s standard show cave circuit 📍
  • 📝 Access only through guided river tours or as part of a multi-day expedition to Camp 5 and the Mulu Pinnacles ⛺
  • 🚶 Reach the upper gorge on foot if you are staying at Camp 5, where a 1-hour hike leads to a stunning riverside viewpoint 🥾
  • ✈️ Fly into Mulu Airport via MASwings before registering at the Park HQ for your mandatory boat transit 🛩️

Travel Tips

  • 🎒 Protect cameras and phones from water splashes and occasional rain with a high-quality waterproof dry bag 🛡️
  • 🧴 Wear sun protection and a wide-brimmed hat during boat rides, as the sun reflects intensely off the white limestone walls ☀️
  • 🧘 Sit still and keep your weight centered during narrow gorge passages to help the boatman maintain stability in the current ⚖️
  • 👮 Follow boatman instructions at all times, especially if you are asked to shift positions or briefly step out during low water 📢
  • 🧥 Bring a light rain poncho even on sunny days; the gorge creates its own microclimate and sudden showers are frequent ⛈️

Suggested Itinerary

  • 09:00 AM – Depart by longboat from park headquarters after a quick stop at the Batu Bungan Penan market 📍
  • 09:45 AM – Cruise through Melinau Gorge and marvel at the vertical white cliffs of Gunung Benarat 🏞️
  • 10:30 AM – Visit Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave to explore the subterranean river systems connected to the gorge 🔦
  • 02:00 PM – Return journey through the gorge, enjoying the downstream views before a late lunch at the park cafe 🍜

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Daily: Accessible during park operating hours via river travel

Entry Fee:

Included with Gunung Mulu National Park permit

Best Time to Visit:

Morning or late afternoon for softer light and views

Location

📌Melinau Gorge, Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia

👉 View on Google Maps

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