Nestled at the western tip of Borneo, lies Malaysia’s smallest national park, Tanjung Batu National Park. Despite being the smallest, it is a significant national park that serves as a sanctuary and a conservation avenue for our treasured Green Turtles and Olive Ridley Turtles.
It is also home to some of the best beaches in Sarawak which proudly boasts clear emerald green waters. A perfect location for those looking to enjoy secluded beach retreats.
The narrow strip of green forest that it has, it offers a few hiking trails that visitors can try. One of the trails recommended is the Pasir Antu Trail.
Pasir Antu Trail
Pasir Antu Trail is a 2.7 kilometre trek from the park headquarters. Average time to complete this trail would be two hours. This includes plenty of photo taking time and enjoy the serene jungle setting.
As usual at all national parks in Sarawak, it is best to engage a licensed guide. Trekking on trails on your own would make you loose out on the interpretation. Engaging a guide, would give one a better understanding of the forest and its ecosystem
All along the trail, you would be walking under the tree canopy, which makes this a pleasant hike. Though if you do the trail in the afternoon, probably the humidity would be one challenge. Bring plenty of water if you decide to trek in the afternoon.
The trail is somewhat easy, but if you have not been physically active for a while, this would rate somewhat moderate. Some parts are flat and there are some part which you need to hike up.
There are a few streams that you also need to cross on this trail. Hre runs cool clear water. This also serves as a nice pit stop and enjoy the surrounding view.
The trail is also scattered with boulders and sometimes you need to just go under these huge granite boulders. I find this a pleasant experience.
The sight at the end of the trail is also heartwarming. A giant boulder welcomes those that made it to the end. Here the crashing waves of Pasir Antu can be clearly heard.
Pasir Antu Beach
Take time to explore the beach once you are there. Besides the main beach near the national park office, here seems to be a favourite landing site for sea turtles.
Was kind of sad to see some nests disturbed by predators. Our guide Jaya said that the most likely culprit would be monitor lizards.
Take your time relaxing or further explore the beach. Take selfies or just go in for a dip in the warm sea. Just keep in mind that the hike back would take you about an hour and a half.
To conclude, this is a must do trail at Tanjung Datu National Park. Although we did not manage to spot or hear its main stars, The Green Sea Turtle, the Bornean Gibbon and the Oriental Pied Hornbill, we truly enjoyed the serenity of its jungle.
Thank you Tanjung Datu National Park for this experience. Next time I’d stay two nights here. One night seem to rushing.
Travel Tips
Most travel agents in Kuching have tours to Tanjung Datu National Park. This trip we organised it with Amansar Travel and Tours. If you need to this on your own. You make your way to Telok Melano Village and from there take a boat to the park. At this time of writing, boat rides for day trips are about RM 200 and an overnight trip would be RM 300.
Things to bring
- Good comfortable trekking shoes
- Lightweight raincoat
- Drinking water
- Torchlight or headlights
- Insect repellent
- Meal ration for overnight trips
Best time to travel
Best time to travel would be from March till about early November. Monsoon season or the rainy season is from mid November till late February.
Thank you for reading and if you want extra details on the above, drop me a line and I’ll get back to you soon as possible.Â
Till my next Bejalai, remember to be a responsible traveller. Respect nature and respect culture.. take care and don’t forget to comment.
Dayak Wanderer 