Crossing streams and climbing massive stone boulders to reach a picture perfect peak while hiking at Gunung Datuk is all part of the adventure.
Opening hours
Always open
What to expect?
What to expect?
Located at the district of Rembau in Negeri Sembilan, Gunung Datuk is famous among avid hikers and nature lovers due to its interesting trail to the top and natural beauty of the rainforest. With an elevation of 885 metres, the hike to the peak takes about 1 - 2 hours for the average person and a fit hiker can do it in as little as 45 minutes.
From the entrance, the trail takes you through a small river you have to cross followed by a fierce uphill section which then gradually becomes flat and less challenging. The peak is filled with large stone boulders and several ladders are secured to them to help you climb the boulders.
Climbing Gunung Datuk is well worth the effort. It is quite a strenuous physical effort but at the top, once the path emerges from the thick jungle, climbers are rewarded with excellent views and a cooling breeze! The highest point of this mountain is around 2900 ft. and it is one of the many favorite places for local adventure seekers to do some exercising trip during their weekend. The peak has a view of the surrounding green forest area and also receives a nice breeze. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts as some even start their trail at 3am just to wait for the perfect sunrise shot. It’s also said that Hang Tuah, a legend in Malaysian folklore, left his footsteps on one of the boulders at this peak.
From the entrance, the trail takes you through a small river you have to cross followed by a fierce uphill section which then gradually becomes flat and less challenging. The peak is filled with large stone boulders and several ladders are secured to them to help you climb the boulders.
Climbing Gunung Datuk is well worth the effort. It is quite a strenuous physical effort but at the top, once the path emerges from the thick jungle, climbers are rewarded with excellent views and a cooling breeze! The highest point of this mountain is around 2900 ft. and it is one of the many favorite places for local adventure seekers to do some exercising trip during their weekend. The peak has a view of the surrounding green forest area and also receives a nice breeze. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts as some even start their trail at 3am just to wait for the perfect sunrise shot. It’s also said that Hang Tuah, a legend in Malaysian folklore, left his footsteps on one of the boulders at this peak.
What to bring?
What to bring?
- At least 1.5 to 2 litres of water per person.
- Headlamp.
- Whistle.
- Comfortable hiking shoes.
- Insect repellant.
- Sun block.
- Hat or a cap.
- Personal medications.
- Gloves.
- Energy snacks.
- Camera.
What are the facilities provided?
What are the facilities provided?
- Safety rope for sections with a steep ascent.
- Trail markers at frequent intervals to keep you on the right trail.
- Ladders to assist in climbing boulders.
- Toilets at the base.
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Couple , Friends , Group
Safety tips
Safety tips
- Carry a headlamp and whistle with you, even if you’re just going for a daytime hike.
- Although Gunung Datuk is well marked to the point where the services of a guide aren’t required, you should not hike alone if you're unfamiliar with the area.
- As the summit is not covered by trees, bring sun block with you as prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn without you realising it.
- The first section uphill is very steep before leading to the slightly flat middle section. Choose to use a walking stick if you do not want to place too much strain on your knees.
- Practice extra caution when climbing up the ladders to the boulders at the stop as a small mistake can be dangerous or even fatal.
- Overall, the path is pretty well defined all the way except at the very beginning. Strips of red and white or yellow plastic tape are tied around branches periodically to let you know you are on the right track.
- Plan your trip ahead and check on the weather as you could see the Straits of Malacca on a clear day from the peak. Also look out for a footstep-shaped impression in one of the boulders which said to have been made by the legendary Malaysian hero, Hang Tuah.
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Register your name with the Ranger’s office at the base of the hill so they know to look for you in any case of emergency.
- The scenery at the top coupled with the refreshing breeze make it perfect to have a small picnic. Clean up after yourself when you’re finished though.
- This hike is not suitable for young children.
- The toilets at the base do not have shower facilities included.
- Gunung Datuk is one of the locals’ favourite spot to hike. Expect to meet a few groups of them if you plan to go here on the weekends or during Malaysian public holidays.
- It is best if you hike here to catch the sunrise so you can get down during daylight. Try and arrange to start your hike at 4am.
- Get the hiking permit for RM5 per person, purchasable at the Ranger’s office before starting your hike.
- The climbing fees are RM5 per person. There are also a climbing guide service available for as low as RM 60 for a trip of 20 pax. Tents, chalets are also available for rent if you need it. Tents is a great place for camping although there are no facilities apart from a very rustic toilet.
- Decide to do a sunrise or sunset hike. If you wish to camp there overnight, it is advisable to go for a hike before 12pm as it gets pretty dangerous to climb in the evening.
- Be wary of the local taxi drivers especially those at the Tampin train station. Their scam includes making an advanced pickup agreement with you, then ask somebody else to pick you up, and they will make a claim from you for breaking the agreement.
What to expect?
What to expect?
Located at the district of Rembau in Negeri Sembilan, Gunung Datuk is famous among avid hikers and nature lovers due to its interesting trail to the top and natural beauty of the rainforest. With an elevation of 885 metres, the hike to the peak takes about 1 - 2 hours for the average person and a fit hiker can do it in as little as 45 minutes.
From the entrance, the trail takes you through a small river you have to cross followed by a fierce uphill section which then gradually becomes flat and less challenging. The peak is filled with large stone boulders and several ladders are secured to them to help you climb the boulders.
Climbing Gunung Datuk is well worth the effort. It is quite a strenuous physical effort but at the top, once the path emerges from the thick jungle, climbers are rewarded with excellent views and a cooling breeze! The highest point of this mountain is around 2900 ft. and it is one of the many favorite places for local adventure seekers to do some exercising trip during their weekend. The peak has a view of the surrounding green forest area and also receives a nice breeze. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts as some even start their trail at 3am just to wait for the perfect sunrise shot. It’s also said that Hang Tuah, a legend in Malaysian folklore, left his footsteps on one of the boulders at this peak.
From the entrance, the trail takes you through a small river you have to cross followed by a fierce uphill section which then gradually becomes flat and less challenging. The peak is filled with large stone boulders and several ladders are secured to them to help you climb the boulders.
Climbing Gunung Datuk is well worth the effort. It is quite a strenuous physical effort but at the top, once the path emerges from the thick jungle, climbers are rewarded with excellent views and a cooling breeze! The highest point of this mountain is around 2900 ft. and it is one of the many favorite places for local adventure seekers to do some exercising trip during their weekend. The peak has a view of the surrounding green forest area and also receives a nice breeze. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts as some even start their trail at 3am just to wait for the perfect sunrise shot. It’s also said that Hang Tuah, a legend in Malaysian folklore, left his footsteps on one of the boulders at this peak.
What to bring?
What to bring?
- At least 1.5 to 2 litres of water per person.
- Headlamp.
- Whistle.
- Comfortable hiking shoes.
- Insect repellant.
- Sun block.
- Hat or a cap.
- Personal medications.
- Gloves.
- Energy snacks.
- Camera.
What are the facilities provided?
What are the facilities provided?
- Safety rope for sections with a steep ascent.
- Trail markers at frequent intervals to keep you on the right trail.
- Ladders to assist in climbing boulders.
- Toilets at the base.
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Couple , Friends , Group
Safety tips
Safety tips
- Carry a headlamp and whistle with you, even if you’re just going for a daytime hike.
- Although Gunung Datuk is well marked to the point where the services of a guide aren’t required, you should not hike alone if you're unfamiliar with the area.
- As the summit is not covered by trees, bring sun block with you as prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn without you realising it.
- The first section uphill is very steep before leading to the slightly flat middle section. Choose to use a walking stick if you do not want to place too much strain on your knees.
- Practice extra caution when climbing up the ladders to the boulders at the stop as a small mistake can be dangerous or even fatal.
- Overall, the path is pretty well defined all the way except at the very beginning. Strips of red and white or yellow plastic tape are tied around branches periodically to let you know you are on the right track.
- Plan your trip ahead and check on the weather as you could see the Straits of Malacca on a clear day from the peak. Also look out for a footstep-shaped impression in one of the boulders which said to have been made by the legendary Malaysian hero, Hang Tuah.
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Register your name with the Ranger’s office at the base of the hill so they know to look for you in any case of emergency.
- The scenery at the top coupled with the refreshing breeze make it perfect to have a small picnic. Clean up after yourself when you’re finished though.
- This hike is not suitable for young children.
- The toilets at the base do not have shower facilities included.
- Gunung Datuk is one of the locals’ favourite spot to hike. Expect to meet a few groups of them if you plan to go here on the weekends or during Malaysian public holidays.
- It is best if you hike here to catch the sunrise so you can get down during daylight. Try and arrange to start your hike at 4am.
- Get the hiking permit for RM5 per person, purchasable at the Ranger’s office before starting your hike.
- The climbing fees are RM5 per person. There are also a climbing guide service available for as low as RM 60 for a trip of 20 pax. Tents, chalets are also available for rent if you need it. Tents is a great place for camping although there are no facilities apart from a very rustic toilet.
- Decide to do a sunrise or sunset hike. If you wish to camp there overnight, it is advisable to go for a hike before 12pm as it gets pretty dangerous to climb in the evening.
- Be wary of the local taxi drivers especially those at the Tampin train station. Their scam includes making an advanced pickup agreement with you, then ask somebody else to pick you up, and they will make a claim from you for breaking the agreement.
Crossing streams and climbing massive stone boulders to reach a picture perfect peak while hiking at Gunung Datuk is all part of the adventure.
Opening hours
Always open
