White water rafting is a fun activity that you can try in many states in Malaysia. — Tourism Malaysia
Malaysia's nature-based activities offer a window into the country’s beautiful landscape.
For instance, white water rafting has gained popularity among many, drawing daring explorers eager to navigate the winding rivers that stretch for kilometres through lush tropical rainforests.
Each river is graded by its level of challenge, varying from an “easy” grade one to the very difficult grade six.
If you are looking for an adventurous getaway, here are some of the nation’s most exhilarating rafting hotspots.
Perak
In the northern state of Perak, the quiet town of Gopeng is a treasure trove for thrill-seekers. The town is known for its Kampar River, offering a heart-pounding 7km rafting trip, which features a series of rapids graded from one to three.
The lush greenery elevates the experience of your white water adventure.
The excitement continues at the Ulu Slim River, located some 90 minutes from Gopeng. While the river turns into a raging torrent during the rainy season, it is shallow with calmer rapids in drier months – ideal for beginners.
You can end your adrenaline-filled trip at Kampung Pos Berseh, an Orang Asli village, where you get to immerse in local culture.
Kedah
Home to one of the world’s longest rainforest canopy walks – with a treetop walk measuring 925m long and 26m high – Kulim in Kedah has also made a name for itself as one of Malaysia’s go-to spots for white water rafting.
Sungai Sedim, nestled within the Sungai Sedim Recreational Park, has been welcoming adventurers with a challenging course. Picture yourself travelling through the frothy waves of the 15km-long river.
There are also other activities that can be explored in the area, such as jungle survival skills and paintball sessions.
Padas River in Sabah is a very popular white water rafting spot. -- Filepic
Selangor
Embark on a thrilling rafting journey at the Sungai Selangor in Kuala Kubu Bharu – at times, you will be “thrown around” by the wild waters as you conquer the churning rapids.
Spanning about 7km, the river has been touted as one of the hotspots for white water rafting activities in Malaysia for many years.
Here, the water flow is fully controlled by the release of the Sungai Selangor dam.
Pahang
The largest state in Peninsular Malaysia – Pahang – boasts a plethora of water adventures, ranging from canoeing, bamboo rafting and of course, the famous white water rafting.
You can enjoy the cool embrace of the air as you sail down the Telom River in Cameron Highlands. Throughout the 20km journey, you will be accompanied by the verdant hills that surround the area. If you are lucky, you will be able to spot wildlife inhabiting the forest.
About three hours’ drive from Cameron Highlands, meanwhile, is Jeram Besu, a village popular with nature lovers. As you manoeuvre the ferocious current along Sungai Lipis and Benta, you might chance upon wildlife and catch sight of the majestic hornbills soaring through the sky.
The exploration doesn’t end here – you can also try flying fox rides and go spelunking in the caves of Gunung Senyum or Kota Gelanggi.
Terengganu
While Terengganu is known for its pristine islands and rolling mountains, tourists can experience its hidden gem – white water rafting at Sungai Loh, located within the serene Bumbung Raja Nature Reserve.
You will sweep past beautiful vistas, as you paddle through the bustling rapids.
According to the Tourism Terengganu website, two other rivers that offer similar rafting experiences are Sungai Terengganu and Sungai Marang.
Other activities that can be done at the nature reserve are jungle trekking and birdwatching.
Sabah
Teeming with rich biodiversity, the state of Sabah offers various rafting sites. Padas River, for instance, is famed for its heart-pounding rapids, attracting adventure seekers in and outside Malaysia.
The journey however starts with a unique 90-minute train ride from Beaufort to Pangi, travelling past scenic views of the lush forests. It takes about two hours to complete the rafting adventure at Padas River.
The Kadamaian River, which begins near the foothills of the iconic Mount Kinabalu, reveals stunning landscapes dotted with local villages.
Located some 60km from Kadamaian River is the more “gentle” Kiulu River, which runs through orchards and padi fields and covers up to 15km. Its calm pace is perfect for newcomers.
