Ancient Caves At Lipis Geopark Growing Tourist Attraction

By Norhidayyu Zainal

LIPIS, Oct 6 (Bernama) -- The limestone caves of Lipis are not only breathtaking in their natural beauty but also hold countless secrets and mysteries that date back hundreds of millions of years.

Recognised as Malaysia’s 11th National Geopark in 2023, the caves in this northern Pahang district preserve vital records of the earth’s geological evolution, ancient fossil discoveries, as well as local legends that are still told today.

Its recognition as a geopark marks a major milestone, positioning Lipis as a national geological treasure worthy of preservation and international promotion.

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A recent programme Geopark Odyssey: Heritage & Archaeo Tourism, organised by Tourism Malaysia Eastern Region, offered participants an opportunity to explore the history, heritage and natural wonders of the area’s caves up close.

Among the highlights is Gua Sisik Naga in Kampung Kubang Rusa, Merapoh — named after its ceiling formations that resemble the scales of a dragon.

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According to licensed tour operator Mohd Syukri Jali, 50, the cave was formerly known as Gua Kalong on topographic maps before being upgraded as a tourist destination due to its unique limestone formations.

This dry cave, about 300 metres long, is now equipped with an internal lighting system that allows visitors to fully appreciate its rock formations.

“It has been developed as a show cave and is the only one in the area with a lighting system. The trail inside (cave) is flat and suitable for visitors of all ages, unlike Gua Padang Kawad, where visitors must swim and wade through rivers.

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“When photographed inside, it feels as though you’re standing within the bones or scales of a dragon... like stepping into a fantasy world. It’s a prime photography location that attracts visitors,” he added.

Beyond its tourism appeal, Gua Sisik Naga also serves an important ecological role as a habitat for bats, which help pollinate fruit trees such as durian in the surrounding areas.

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Meanwhile, Gua Bama in Kampung Relong, Kuala Lipis, offers visitors the chance to explore a cave system hundreds of millions of years old and rich in geological wonders, as well as legends and cultural heritage.

According to Khairul Haqim Zulkafli, chairman of the Gua Bama Guides Club, the site comprises five smaller caves — Gua Pengantin, Gua Mengesot, Gua Belimbing, Gua Angin and Gua Gelap — believed to be between 240 and 255 million years old.

“Local folklore tells that Gua Bama originated from two structures known as Gua Jantan and Gua Betina, which were turned to stone by a mythical being known as Sang Kelembai during a wedding ceremony.

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“Inside, visitors can see rock formations resembling a bridal couple, a gong, a bed and pillows, said to be remnants of the curse. The name Gua Bam is also linked to a guardian tiger spirit known as Bujang Bama, believed to have left claw and paw marks in Gua Pengantin,” he said.

Reaching Gua Bama involves a climb of about 600 steps, with two route options: a half climb of 30 to 40 minutes, or a full ascent of over an hour.

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“The first half consists of steps, while the rest is rocky terrain. For safety reasons, all visitors must be accompanied by a guide.

“At the summit of the limestone hill, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Kampung Relong, Kampung Bapong, Kampung Berchang and Kampung Berang,” he added.

-- BERNAMA