Peninsular Malaysia’s largest expanse of virgin jungle, Belum-Temengor Rainforest, lies in the northern area of Perak state. Over 130 million years in age Belum is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back further than the Amazon or Congo.  In the heart of the forest lies the manmade lake Temenggor, covering 15,200 Hectares which is dotted with hundreds of islands. The park is home to 14 of the world’s most threatened mammals including the Malaysian Tiger, white-handed Gibbon, Asiatic Elephant, Malaysian Sunbear and Malayan Tapir, who still roam freely within the wild habitats of Belum. Other animals include wild boar, deer, pythons and cobras. The pristine forest also houses over 3,000 species of flowering plants, including the largest flower in the world – the Rafflesia.

The stunning landscapes of Belum Rainforest are also a must for birders with over 300 avian species calling the park home. All 10 species of hornbill fly over Belum, namely white-crowned hornbill, bushy-crested hornbill, wrinkled hornbill, wreathed hornbill, plain-pouched hornbill, black hornbill, Oriental pied hornbill, rhinoceros hornbill, great hornbill and helmeted hornbill.

There is plenty to see and do around Belum, most of which is best explored by boat tours or on an overnight houseboat adventure. Among the activities are; jungle trails, thundering waterfalls, lookout towers, the search for the Rafflesia and visits to authentic Orang Asli villages.