Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Bernard Lee, George Aeria, Lian Goet Ean, Uncle Yeong, S.K.Sitt, Toh Kim Kiang, Neoh Choo Loa, Mr. Talib (mountain guide), porter A and porter B.
Squatting: Thong Kok Cheng, Ooi Kok Hooi, Lee Shan Chen, Lau Khim Hun, Lau Khim Sun, and the Orang Asli our host at Kampung Atap in the middle of the Cameron jungle.
Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, S.K.Sitt, Uncle Yeong, Bernard Lee, Toh Kim Kiang, Lian Goet Ean, Lee Shan Chen, Thong Kok Cheng, Neoh Choo Loa, George Aeria, Lau Khim Sun, Lau Khim Hun, Koay Saw Hoon and squatting is Ooi Kok Hooi at Kg. Ulu Kampar.
Day 1 (9.07.2010) Gopeng to Kg. Ulu Kampar Orang Asli settlement
Ten pax in 2 cars from Penang made our way to Gopeng to meet up with the rest of the 4 team-mates (Ching Neng Bin, Sitt SK, Lee Shan Chen from Ipoh and Bernard Lee from Port Dickson) at 4.40pm. Altogether, the team comprises of 14 members and Uncle Yeong a veteran trekker, was the oldest at aged 72. Three Semai Orang Asli were hired as guide and porters.
After an early quick dinner in Gopeng market, we drove to My Gopeng Resort to park our cars and to meet our mountain guide Mr Talib. It was here that the trek began when Mr Talib walked us to his long-house at Kampung Ulu Kampar.
We started trekking at about 7pm after the rain. The trail was a pleasant walk along a gently sloping gradient through the oil-palm plantation. It took us 1hr 10 minutes of trekking to reach the Orang Asli settlement at Kampung Ulu Kampar. We stayed in a long-house of our guide, Mr. Talib a Semai Orang Asli.
Miss Malaysia 2010 finalist having their team-building games at the My Gopeng Resort. We were very surprised to see them there, but, they were shocked to learn that we are trekking 30km up to Cameron Highlands at this hour.
We trekked towards Kampung Ulu Kampar from My Gopeng Resort under the rain.
We trekked towards Kampung Ulu Kampar from My Gopeng Resort under the rain.
Miss Malaysia 2010 finalist having their team-building games at the My Gopeng Resort. We were very surprised to see them there, but, they were shocked to learn that we are trekking 30km up to Cameron Highlands at this hour.
We trekked towards Kampung Ulu Kampar from My Gopeng Resort under the rain.
We trekked towards Kampung Ulu Kampar from My Gopeng Resort under the rain.
We trekked towards Kampung Ulu Kampar under the rain.
We started trekking at about 7pm after the rain. The trail was a pleasant walk along a gently sloping gradient through the oil-palm plantation. The serene cool evening mist over the estate as the sun sets at 7.27pm.
The trail was a pleasant walk along a gently sloping gradient through the oil-palm plantation. The serene cool evening mist over the estate as the sun sets at 7.27pm.
The trail was a pleasant walk along a gently sloping gradient through the oil-palm plantation. The serene cool evening mist over the estate as the sun sets at 7.27pm.
It took us 1hr 10 minutes of trekking to reach the Orang Asli settlement at Kampung Ulu Kampar. We stayed in a long-house of our guide, Mr. Talib a Semai Orang Asli.
The refreshing cool air from the long-house open windows of our guide Mr. Talib a Semai Orang Asli at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
We enjoyed eating sweet potato 'tong-sui' prepared by the ladies for supper at Mr. Talib Kg.Ulu Kampar long-house.
A very comfortable long-house with attached pantry and a solar light-bulb.
The last minutes repair to our backpacks by Uncle Yeong at Mr. Talib Kg.Ulu Kampar long-house.
We enjoyed eating sweet potato 'tong-sui' prepared by the ladies for supper at Mr. Talib Kg.Ulu Kampar long-house.
We enjoyed eating sweet potato 'tong-sui' prepared by the ladies for supper at Mr. Talib Kg.Ulu Kampar long-house.
A very comfortable long-house with attached pantry and a solar light-bulb for the night at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
A very comfortable long-house with attached pantry and a solar light-bulb for the night at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
Day 2 (10.07.2010) Kg. Ulu Kampar to Kg. Atap in the middle of Cameron Highlands jungle
The morning call was at 5.45am, breakfast at 6.30am and the trek began at 7.30am. The trek gradually became more like a real jungle trail through farms, jungles, river crossing and orang asli settlements. And by the time we stopped for lunch on the river bank we had trekked for about 5 hrs at 12.30pm. Arrived destination at 4.16pm, overnight stay at orang asli settlement at Kg. Atap. Whole journey was about 8 hours.
The jungle's hungry leeches soon made their presence felt. Bloody patches appeared in our socks, trousers and even shirts. Removing my shoes and socks I found 8 fat leeches still feeding. Even though I had applied an insect repellent it was washed away once we crossed the river. Leeches abound on the banks of the river and streams because their instincts tell them those animals come here to drink. On this particular trail leeches were found all along the track, weaving back and forth once they sensed the presence of someone approaching.
We stayed in this long-house of our guide, Mr. Talib a Semai Orang Asli at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These is Mr Talib's long-house bath-room at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These is Mr Talib's civet cat (Musang) at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These are Mr Talib's grandchildren at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These are Mr Talib's grandchildren at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These are Mr Talib's grandchildren at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
Trekking 30km route from My Gopeng Resort to Cameron Highlands at Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
Getting ready for the 20km trek at 7.22am from Kg.Ulu Kampar to Cameron Highlands at Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, S.K.Sitt, Uncle Yeong, Bernard Lee, Toh Kim Kiang, Lian Goet Ean, Lee Shan Chen, Thong Kok Cheng, Neoh Choo Loa, George Aeria, Lau Khim Sun, Lau Khim Hun, Koay Saw Hoon and squatting is Ooi Kok Hooi at Kg. Ulu Kampar.
Getting ready for the 20km trek at 7.22am from Kg.Ulu Kampar to Cameron Highlands at Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
Kg. Ulu Kampar Orang Asli settlement.
The morning call was at 5.45am, breakfast at 6.30am and the trek began at 7.30am. The trek gradually became more like a real jungle trail through farms, jungles, river crossing and orang asli settlements. And by the time we stopped for lunch on the river bank we had trekked for about 5 hrs at 12.30pm. Arrived destination at 4.16pm, overnight stay at orang asli settlement at Kg. Atap. Whole journey was about 8 hours.
The jungle's hungry leeches soon made their presence felt. Bloody patches appeared in our socks, trousers and even shirts. Removing my shoes and socks I found 8 fat leeches still feeding. Even though I had applied an insect repellent it was washed away once we crossed the river. Leeches abound on the banks of the river and streams because their instincts tell them those animals come here to drink. On this particular trail leeches were found all along the track, weaving back and forth once they sensed the presence of someone approaching.
We stayed in this long-house of our guide, Mr. Talib a Semai Orang Asli at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These is Mr Talib's long-house bath-room at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These is Mr Talib's civet cat (Musang) at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These are Mr Talib's grandchildren at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These are Mr Talib's grandchildren at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
These are Mr Talib's grandchildren at Kg.Ulu Kampar.
Trekking 30km route from My Gopeng Resort to Cameron Highlands at Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
Getting ready for the 20km trek at 7.22am from Kg.Ulu Kampar to Cameron Highlands at Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, S.K.Sitt, Uncle Yeong, Bernard Lee, Toh Kim Kiang, Lian Goet Ean, Lee Shan Chen, Thong Kok Cheng, Neoh Choo Loa, George Aeria, Lau Khim Sun, Lau Khim Hun, Koay Saw Hoon and squatting is Ooi Kok Hooi at Kg. Ulu Kampar.
Getting ready for the 20km trek at 7.22am from Kg.Ulu Kampar to Cameron Highlands at Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
Kg. Ulu Kampar Orang Asli settlement.
Day 1 trekking
An Orang Asli lady feeding chicken at Kg. Ulu Kampar Orang Asli settlement.
An Orang Asli lady feeding chicken at Kg. Ulu Kampar Orang Asli settlement.
Kampar River in Perak.
Ching Neng Bin standing at the unused reservoir along the Kampar River in Perak.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Taking a good rest by the Kampar River on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
So far so good - no leeches yet on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The fast flowing water of Kampar River on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
After a good rest by the Kampar River on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin ready to move on up to Cameron Highlands.
Uncle Yeong said, "I am well prepared this time" on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
George said, "Lets go" on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 1st river crossing was exciting at 8.56am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Everybody looking good on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beams of sunlight penetrates the thick jungle canopy on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The fast and furious flowing water of Kampar River on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Checking for leeches during a short break and were happy for now on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The fast and furious flowing water of Kampar River on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Checking for leeches during a short break and were happy for now on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The fast and furious flowing water of Kampar River.
Our guide got this wild mango from the forest - nice to eat but very sour.
Walking through another bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 2nd river crossing was easy at 10.10am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 2nd river crossing was easy at 10.10am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboos on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing was cool and nice at 10.20am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Our guide got this wild mango from the forest - nice to eat but very sour.
Walking through another bamboo forest on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 2nd river crossing was easy at 10.10am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 2nd river crossing was easy at 10.10am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The bamboos on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing was cool and nice at 10.20am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing was cool and nice at 10.20am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing was cool and nice at 10.20am on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin on the 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Taking a rest after the 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Butterflies at the 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Butterflies at the 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin, Lian Goet Ean, Koay Saw Hoon at the 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
At the 3rd river crossing up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Knee and back bending was required because of numerous fallen bamboos and rotten trees, even though the guide in front did a lot of chopping with his parang. Many times my backpack was caught as I stooped low. An added difficulty was that as soon as we reached a high point, down we went on a steep descent. This was really hard on stiff knees.
Climbing on very steep mountain slopes up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The 4th river crossing was narrow with fast flowing water at 12.14pm on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The 4th river crossing was narrow with fast flowing water at 12.14pm on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Climbing on very steep mountain slopes up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The colorful mushrooms on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The colorful mushrooms on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The fast and furious flowing river water on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The fast and furious flowing river water on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
There was no way to prevent our feet from getting wet. Shoes and socks were soaked and the leeches had a grand buffet. Removing my shoes and socks - 8 fat leeches still feeding on my bloody socks. Even though I had applied an insect repellent it was washed away once we crossed the river. Leeches abound on the banks of the river and streams because their instincts tell them those animals come here to drink. On this particular trail leeches were found all along the track, weaving back and forth once they sensed the presence of someone approaching.
This big fat bloodsucking leech that dropped off from my underwear..hug!
Our bloody legs after bloodsucking leech attack on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Our bloody legs after bloodsucking leech attack on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Our bloody legs after bloodsucking leech attack on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
A short rest here on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 5th river crossing at 1.11pm was adventurous - clinging to the cliff wall or be washed away on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 5th river crossing at 1.11pm was adventurous - clinging to the cliff wall or be washed away on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 5th river crossing at 1.11pm was adventurous - clinging to the cliff wall or be washed away on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beautiful butterfly called on George Aeria. Taking a break after the 5th river crossing on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beautiful butterfly called on George Aeria on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Beautiful butterfly called on George Aeria on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Lee Shan Chen is happy for now as the bloodsucking leech is not around her yet .....
Time for a swim at 2.38pm for Ching Neng Bin on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Lunch break at 2.47pm on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
Lunch break at 2.47pm on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
The 6th and final river crossing for the day at 3.47pm on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
We were all hungry and wet because we had to cross at least 6 rivers with very strong water flows on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
We expected to reach Kg. Atap by 6pm, but we did it at 4.16pm almost 2 hours earlier. Neoh Choo Loa, our team leader said that this was a record time so far. The distance trekked on this day was more than 20km in just over 8 hours.
A video
The mysterious mountain view at Kg. Attap on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
This Orang Asli woman from Kg. Atap came to welcome us at 4.18 pm. We be staying here for the night.
The girls set up open-air kitchen to prepare dinner. We cooked rice and heat up chicken curry. While uncle Yeong cooked special brown rice and ‘tong swei’. Uncle Yeong preparing fantastic dinner for all of us - special brown rice with plenty of nuts inside.
Chicken curry, baked beans, long beans with white and brown rice for 6.18pm dinner at Kg. Atap.
Chicken curry, baked beans, long beans with white and brown rice for 6.18pm dinner at Kg. Atap.
Chicken curry, baked beans, long beans with white and brown rice for 6.18pm dinner at Kg. Atap.
Chicken curry, baked beans, long beans with white and brown rice for 6.18pm dinner at Kg. Atap.
The best dinner at at Kg. Atap on the jungle trek up to Cameron Highlands.
George Aeria brought this wonderful bottle for the cold night... at Kg. Atap.
Mr.Thong after the wonderful bottle.... at Kg. Atap.
Uncle Yeong preparing his famous 'tong-sui' for supper at Kg. Atap.
Uncle Yeong also fried carrots and sweet potatoes with butter, coated with cinnamon, salt and sugar at Kg. Atap.
Uncle Yeong also fried carrots and sweet potatoes with butter, coated with cinnamon, salt and sugar at Kg. Atap.
Uncle Yeong also fried carrots and sweet potatoes with butter, coated with cinnamon, salt and sugar at Kg. Atap.
Bernard Lee looking at his bloody itchy leg at Kg. Atap.
Sleeping was in a cramped Orang Asli hut, 14 persons in a space measuring less than 20 square feet with half of the bamboo floor broken up. However, space was the least of our concern. Luckily we have our sleeping mat; otherwise, have to sleep on broken floor.
Everybody was happy to sleep at 9.15pm like sardine fish in an Orang Asli hut at Kg. Atap.
Everybody was happy to sleep at 9.15pm like sardine fish in an Orang Asli hut at Kg. Atap.
Everybody was happy to sleep at 9.15pm like sardine fish in an Orang Asli hut at Kg. Atap.
Day 3 (11.07.2010) Kampong Atap to Tanah Rata @ Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
The morning call was at 7.00am, breakfast at 8am and the trek began at 9.00am.
Woke up at 7am and called to my mates to wake up. I was stiff all over because I slept on broken floor. The floor of the hut was bamboo slats with "air-conditioning" coming through the gaps. What caused me anxiety was my left knee which felt "frozen" and ached badly when I stretched out my leg. After hard rubbing and applying an anti-inflammation pain-killing gel it felt better. Breakfast was hot coffee, bread and some rice from previous night.
Some of us woke up to find more leech marks and blood patches on their bodies and thought that leeches had crawled into the huts. But I thought differently, more likely was that the leeches had clung to our back-packs and then found their way to our bodies while we were asleep.
Most of us were glad to donate left over food and clothing to the Orang Asli old couple, to lighten our backpacks.
So at 9am everyone was ready to move on. Hike up to Pahang Border and exit through Bharat Tea Plantation at Cameron Valley Tea House 2. We were told by our guide that today was going to be easier because we only had to walk about 5 hours and the expected time to arrive at our destination was 12.30pm. What was easy to the Orang Aslis was going to be our toughest trail yet.
An open bath-room and the toilet is behind the banana trees at Orang Asli Kampung Atap.
Breakfast at 8.08am - hot coffee and bread for everyone at Orang Asli Kampung Atap.
Our dirty, muddy, wet and smelly trekking shoes at Orang Asli Kampung Atap.
This is how we tie up shoes that turn into 'crocodile mouth' at Orang Asli Kampung Atap.
A fire place in the center of the hut for cooking and keeping warm at Orang Asli Kampung Atap.
Getting ready for the final day 10km hike. This hut that we slept on at Orang Asli Kampung Atap has tilted a little and hopefully be there for many more years to come.
Standing L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Bernard Lee, George Aeria, Lian Goet Ean, Uncle Yeong, S.K.Sitt, Toh Kim Kiang, Neoh Choo Loa, Mr. Talib (guide), porter A and porter B.
Squatting: Thong Kok Cheng, Ooi Kok Hooi, Lee Shan Chen, Lau Khim Hun, Lau Khim Sun, and the Orang Asli our host at Kg. Atap in the middle of the Cameron jungle.
So at 9am everyone was ready to move on. We were told by our guide that today was going to be easier because we only had to walk about 5 hours and the expected time to arrive at our destination was 12.30pm. What was easy to the Orang Aslis was going to be our toughest trail yet.
"Come again" said the Orang Asli from Kampung Atap.
"Come again" said the Orang Asli from Kampung Atap.
Our mountain guide Mr Talib from Kg. Ulu Kampar.
Soon after we started off, we faced a steep 50 degrees gradient on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Wild giant bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Wild giant bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
10.20am at a resting place on top of a hill to Cameron Highlands.
10.20am at a resting place on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Thong Kok Cheng a veteran runner said, "No sweat" on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Chatting with other pass-by Orang Asli on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Our mountain guide Mr Talib chatting with a pass-by Orang Asli on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever the trio sang, "We are the world" on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin said, "I can't believe doing this grueling and dangerous jungle trek to Cameron Highlands".
11.40am the group continued the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
11.40am the group continued the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The group continued the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
10.20am at a resting place on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Thong Kok Cheng a veteran runner said, "No sweat" on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Chatting with other pass-by Orang Asli on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Our mountain guide Mr Talib chatting with a pass-by Orang Asli on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever the trio sang, "We are the world" on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
As strong as ever on top of a hill jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin said, "I can't believe doing this grueling and dangerous jungle trek to Cameron Highlands".
11.40am the group continued the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
11.40am the group continued the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The group continued the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The group continued up the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
We had to cross another 2 fast-flowing streams below. Just when we thought that there were no more streams, the trail itself became a stream. We found ourselves walking on water and very slippery rocks. In 3 minutes, Bernard Lee fell two times in front of Ching Neng Bin and fortunately, Bernard's backpack broke the fall of the shock and was soon up and about.
Wild giant bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Lau Khim Hun and Lau Khim Sun at bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Neoh Choo Loa and Lau Khim Sun at bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Lian Goet Ean and Koay Saw Hoon at bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Wild giant bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Wild giant bamboo shoot on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
We had to cross another 2 fast-flowing streams below. Just when we thought that there were no more streams, the trail itself became a stream. We found ourselves walking on water and very slippery rocks. In 3 minutes, Bernard Lee fell two times in front of Ching Neng Bin and fortunately, Bernard's backpack broke the fall of the shock and was soon up and about.
Wild giant bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Lau Khim Hun and Lau Khim Sun at bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Neoh Choo Loa and Lau Khim Sun at bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Lian Goet Ean and Koay Saw Hoon at bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Wild giant bamboo forest on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
Wild giant bamboo shoot on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The watery trail on the jungle trek to Cameron Highlands.
The watery trail turned into a narrow ledge. Those of us who were afraid of heights kept their eyes away from the edge. However, where the soft soil gave way we had to use our hands to grip whatever we could hold onto. At times the terrain became rocky and the ledges became even trickier because of the slippery slopes. Team work called to lend each other a hand to pull the one behind across gaping cavities.
Congratulations to Koay Saw Hoon on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to Lee Shan Chen on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to Bernard Lee on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to S.K.Sitt on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to Ching Neng Bin followed by Neoh Choo Loa on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Pointing at the border stone marking Pahang and Perak boundary at the summit. L-R: Uncle Yeong, Bernard Lee and Ooi Kok Hooi in Pahang state while Toh Kim Kiang, Ching Neng Bin and Neoh Choo Loa still standing in Perak state.
At 12.11pm we finally scaled the last 60 degrees gradient wall which was the longest and steepest yet. At the summit (1372m) was a border stone, one side pointing to Perak and the other to Pahang. So we were literally standing between two states. What a feeling of relief that we did make it. Our exhaustion miraculously seemed to evaporate, a sense of accomplishment flooding our senses and we congratulated each other.
Our guide Mr. Talib and his twin sons as porter at the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Ching Neng Bin and Lau Khim Hun at the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
The watery trail turned into a narrow ledge. Those of us who were afraid of heights kept their eyes away from the edge. However, where the soft soil gave way we had to use our hands to grip whatever we could hold onto. At times the terrain became rocky and the ledges became even trickier because of the slippery slopes. Team work called to lend each other a hand to pull the one behind across gaping cavities.
Congratulations to Koay Saw Hoon on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to Lee Shan Chen on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to Bernard Lee on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to S.K.Sitt on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Congratulations to Ching Neng Bin followed by Neoh Choo Loa on reaching the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Pointing at the border stone marking Pahang and Perak boundary at the summit. L-R: Uncle Yeong, Bernard Lee and Ooi Kok Hooi in Pahang state while Toh Kim Kiang, Ching Neng Bin and Neoh Choo Loa still standing in Perak state.
At 12.11pm we finally scaled the last 60 degrees gradient wall which was the longest and steepest yet. At the summit (1372m) was a border stone, one side pointing to Perak and the other to Pahang. So we were literally standing between two states. What a feeling of relief that we did make it. Our exhaustion miraculously seemed to evaporate, a sense of accomplishment flooding our senses and we congratulated each other.
Our guide Mr. Talib and his twin sons as porter at the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Ching Neng Bin and Lau Khim Hun at the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
At the boundary stone marker of Perak with Pahang.
Finally out of the Pahang jungle. With a feeling of jubilation the descend was easy, half an hour to reach Kampung Sungai Ubi. From there to the Bharat Tea Plantation was another half an hour, walking part of the way along a paved road and then we took a short-cut on a foot-path skirting tea shrubs and vegetable plots to reach the main road.
Walking down at 12.54pm towards the Orang Asli settlement at perkampungan orang asli Kampung Sungai Ubi.
At the Orang Asli settlement at perkampungan orang asli Kampung Sungai Ubi.
Koay Saw Hoon distributing biscuits to the Orang Asli children at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
Finally out of the Pahang jungle. With a feeling of jubilation the descend was easy, half an hour to reach Kampung Sungai Ubi. From there to the Bharat Tea Plantation was another half an hour, walking part of the way along a paved road and then we took a short-cut on a foot-path skirting tea shrubs and vegetable plots to reach the main road.
Walking down at 12.54pm towards the Orang Asli settlement at perkampungan orang asli Kampung Sungai Ubi.
At the Orang Asli settlement at perkampungan orang asli Kampung Sungai Ubi.
Koay Saw Hoon distributing biscuits to the Orang Asli children at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
Koay Saw Hoon distributing biscuits to the Orang Asli children at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin distributing biscuits to the Orang Asli children at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin distributing biscuits to the Orang Asli children at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
Ching Neng Bin distributing biscuits to the Orang Asli children at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
We all made it! - This is what we call "Adventurous Achievement" at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
From Kampung Sg. Ubi to the Bharat Tea Plantation was another half an hour, walking part of the way along a paved road.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
We had our refreshing hot tea at the Cameron Valley Tea House 2, while we waited for Mr Thee (Lee Shan Chen's husband who drove up this morning) to take us to KRS Pines Guesthouse in Tanah Rata.
Our exhaustion miraculously seemed to evaporate, a sense of accomplishment flooding our senses and we congratulated each other at the Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
A packet of strawberries for all at the Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
We stayed at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Our shoes as clean as new at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
A celebration dinner at Sheng Ming Restaurant at 6.20pm in Tanah Rata.
A celebration dinner at Sheng Ming Restaurant at 6.20pm in Tanah Rata.
As you can see, we were so hungry that we finished the food in less than ten minutes. Well done!
We all made it! - This is what we call "Adventurous Achievement" at Kampung Sg. Ubi in Cameron Highlands.
From Kampung Sg. Ubi to the Bharat Tea Plantation was another half an hour, walking part of the way along a paved road.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
Bharat Tea Plantation at Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
We had our refreshing hot tea at the Cameron Valley Tea House 2, while we waited for Mr Thee (Lee Shan Chen's husband who drove up this morning) to take us to KRS Pines Guesthouse in Tanah Rata.
Our exhaustion miraculously seemed to evaporate, a sense of accomplishment flooding our senses and we congratulated each other at the Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
A packet of strawberries for all at the Cameron Valley Tea House 2.
We stayed at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Our shoes as clean as new at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
A celebration dinner at Sheng Ming Restaurant at 6.20pm in Tanah Rata.
A celebration dinner at Sheng Ming Restaurant at 6.20pm in Tanah Rata.
As you can see, we were so hungry that we finished the food in less than ten minutes. Well done!
Day 4 (12.07.2010) Tanah Rata Cameron to Gopeng
Only 4 mates woke up at 2.30am to watch the World Cup final. After breakfast, the car drivers left by taxi for Gopeng to pick up the cars from the resort and waited for us at Simpang Pulai bus stand. The rest of us left Tanah Rata by bus at 11am for Simpang Pulai and arrived there two hours later.
The road entrance view of KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
A spider at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Saying goodbye to KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Special tea and nasi lemak for breakfast at an Indian shop outside KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Special tea and nasi lemak for breakfast at an Indian shop outside KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
S K Convent in Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
After breakfast, the car drivers left by taxi for Gopeng to pick up the cars from the resort and waited for us at Simpang Pulai bus stand. The rest of us left Tanah Rata by bus at 11am for Simpang Pulai and arrived there two hours later.
2.42pm lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our tong-sui at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
3.25pm tea break at Ching's house in Bandar Seri Botani Ipoh, before driving back home. Our team leader, Mr Neoh (standing) pointing at George and said, " I am very happy that nobody gone crazy during the 4 days expedition".
The sense of accomplishment was well-deserved and we would remember this trail for a long long time to come with appreciation to the rivers and wilderness of the virgin jungle of Cameron Highlands
Only 4 mates woke up at 2.30am to watch the World Cup final. After breakfast, the car drivers left by taxi for Gopeng to pick up the cars from the resort and waited for us at Simpang Pulai bus stand. The rest of us left Tanah Rata by bus at 11am for Simpang Pulai and arrived there two hours later.
The road entrance view of KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
A spider at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Flowers at KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Saying goodbye to KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Special tea and nasi lemak for breakfast at an Indian shop outside KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
Special tea and nasi lemak for breakfast at an Indian shop outside KRS Pines Guest House in Tanah Rata.
S K Convent in Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands.
After breakfast, the car drivers left by taxi for Gopeng to pick up the cars from the resort and waited for us at Simpang Pulai bus stand. The rest of us left Tanah Rata by bus at 11am for Simpang Pulai and arrived there two hours later.
2.42pm lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our lunch at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
Our tong-sui at Restoran Pulai Lucky View in Simpang Pulai beside Public Bank.
3.25pm tea break at Ching's house in Bandar Seri Botani Ipoh, before driving back home. Our team leader, Mr Neoh (standing) pointing at George and said, " I am very happy that nobody gone crazy during the 4 days expedition".
The sense of accomplishment was well-deserved and we would remember this trail for a long long time to come with appreciation to the rivers and wilderness of the virgin jungle of Cameron Highlands
Conclusion
The total distance trekked was more than 30km - 20km on the 2nd day taking 8 hours and another 5 hours to trek 10km on the third day. The toll on Ching was bloody, more than 50 itchy leech wounds, cuts and rashes on both legs. This was one of my toughest trails. Bernard Lee who had trekked 14 times up Mt. Kinabalu said that even the highest mountain in Malaysia, Mt. Kinabalu is nothing compared to this trail.
It was not the altitude which made it challenging but the long trek and harshness of the terrain. Here you would find numerous rivers and stream crossings, lose ground on steep slopes, wet & slippery rocks, narrow trails that are overgrown with shrubs and rattan thorns, bees and leeches all the way.
The sense of accomplishment was well-deserved and we would remember this trail for a long long time to come with appreciation to the rivers and wilderness of the virgin jungle.
The RM200 per person for the 4 days adventure was no doubt definitely well spent. Many thanks to Mr. Neoh for taking us through and fulfilling our dreams.
The Trekkers
Bernard Lee
 |
| Ching Neng Bin |
 |
| George Aeria |
 |
| Koay Saw Hoon |
 |
| Lau Khim Hun |
 |
| Lau Khim Sun |
 |
| Lee Shan Chen |
 |
| Lian Goet Ean |
 |
| Neoh Choo Loa |
 |
| Ooi Kok Hooi |
 |
| Sitt S.K. |
 |
| Thong Kok Cheng |
 |
| Toh Kim Kiang |
 |
| Uncle Yeong |
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Mr.Talib (guide)
Food arrangements
- Meals catered for group:
10 July, breakfast & Dinner
11 July, breakfast
-You would need to prepare on your own
10 July, lunch
11 July, lunch
Any powdered drinks such as coffee, Milo, etc...
Please bring along RM200 for the expenditure of this trip (payment for the guides/porters, catered meals, accommodations, transport, parking.) other incidentals are on your own.
The list below can be used as a guide with items being added or deleted according to personal needs and experience.
Camera & charger
Clothing (one for day, evening and in Tanah Rata) sarong for sleeping, Towel
Cup, plate, fork, spoon
Food – Milo & coffee & biscuits
Hand phone & charger
Hat/cap
Insect repellent
Medications
Money
Plastic bags for clothing & rubbish
Rain coat/jacket
Sandal/slippers
Sleeping bag & mat
Swimming costume
Toiletries & toilet paper roll
Torch light
Water bottle drinks (1.25L)
Pocket knife
Knee braces for the knee
Air pillow for sleeping
Trekking involves several river crossing. It is very common to cross the same river many times. The weather is unpredictable; one can experience fine weather at one area and rains at the upper regions. Therefore, it is advisable to place items like food, clothes, sleeping bag in plastic bags with tops tightly secured with rubber bands.
The gears you take on an expedition usually ride on your shoulders. Ask yourself ‘What do I really need?” and remember you have to carry it. Jeans is not recommended because of its weight. The lighter the load the easier it will be to carry. It is very important to consider the weight factor when packing.
Car arrangement
10 from Penang. We need 2 cars (Neoh and George)
4 from Ipoh: Ching, Bernard, Sitt, Shan Chen
Tentative Program
9th July
14:00 - meet at shell Gelugor
14:15 - Penang to Gopeng
16:45 - arrive Gopeng, early dinner at Gopeng market
18:15 - meet mountain guide (Mr. Talib) at My Gopeng Resort.
18:30 - walk to Kampung Ulu Kampar.
20:00 - Kampung Ulu Kampar, over night in Talib's house.
10 July
14:15 - Penang to Gopeng
16:45 - arrive Gopeng, early dinner at Gopeng market
18:15 - meet mountain guide (Mr. Talib) at My Gopeng Resort.
18:30 - walk to Kampung Ulu Kampar.
20:00 - Kampung Ulu Kampar, over night in Talib's house.
10 July
05:45 - morning call.
07:00 - hike up to Kampung Atap
18:00 - Kampung Atap.
11 July
07:00 - hike up to Kampung Atap
18:00 - Kampung Atap.
11 July
07:00 - morning call.
08:00 - Hike up to Cameron Highland
13:00 - Cameron highland.
12 July
08:00 - Hike up to Cameron Highland
13:00 - Cameron highland.
12 July
11:00 - Cameron - Gopeng by bus
Gopeng - Penang by car
Gopeng - Penang by car
///Trekking 30km Orang Asli jungle trek from Gopeng to Cameron Highlands, 09 to 12 Jul 2010
Ching,
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking time to put together all the nice photos and detailed reporting. This is the best Gopeng-Cemeron report.
Regards,
CL Neoh
What a great adventure and as usual fantastic photo's. Thanks for sharing,
ReplyDeletePhill
Very adventurous. Enjoy looking at you guys having fun, but am not capable or willing to do it. Too difficult, lah. Prefer the 3 to 5 stars accomodation and service.
ReplyDeletePaul
Ching,
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a fantastic trip! Wish I were with you. Thank you for sharing.
Wong
Ching,
ReplyDeleteThat looks like a fantastic trip. Wish I were with you! Thank You for sharing..On On
Hi Mr Ching
ReplyDeleteA very good write up and photos.
Thank you for sharing.......
B regards
Lina Ng
Wow, you surely found a good outdoor soul-mate ..........Lee Shan Chen!!!
ReplyDeleteChing, thanks for the write-up. I can imagine it's all worth the pain and suffering. I really missed the adventures...Rgds Yeap
ReplyDeleteDear Ching,
ReplyDeleteI really en......joy all your nice photos !!! Great adventures and looking forward to see more & more.
Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Kelly
Great adventure for all participants .
ReplyDeleteShd also do it one day .
Pls keep me posyed .
Thks
TH Too
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.
Nice photos too.
looking forward to your next adventure.
Ning Hoe
Neng Bin,
ReplyDeleteI lift up my hat to you all, you all are really good, and tough, and fit. Congrats, and God bless you all.
Enjoyed reading your adventures.
Regards,
James Yap
Ching,
ReplyDeleteYou're simply a great travelogue journalist and perhaps the best of the lot.
Awaiting to read and see your next interesting journey.
Thanks Ching for the good write up and photos.i surely missed the trek this year but never for those 'pacat' !
ReplyDeleteThanks for yet another juicy and luring write up and photos, Ching. I am sure many others, like me, are dreaming about doing the same trek.
ReplyDeleteTo the team, my heartiest congratulations. I can relate to "harshness of terrain" after making it to the Pinnacles when I was in my mid 30s, but that's just a 4-hours up 5 hours down trek without the sardine can nights and sharing of joy with orang alsi folks and open air cooking etc.
Well done, Uncle Yeong and those fast catching up, for proving that age is only a number. May the Good Lord give you many more opportunities to enjoy the world in its pristine state.
You people must be very fit to be able to climb the mountain. Really good job.
ReplyDeleteHenry Lee
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteGreat adventure!! Thanks for sharing your good shot pictures!!
What camera brand are you using? I'm still thinking whether to buy DSLR or Lumix LX3?
If I know you are going to Tibet I may be joining you...too bad miss it..
So when is your next trip destination?
Cheers
Helen
Thanks Ching for sharing! U and company did it again, congratulations!!! Shalom
ReplyDeleteGreat adventure for ALL participants. Wish I did it too .
ReplyDeleteThanks.
Thanks for sharing. Great posts.
ReplyDeleteVonn Ooi
Thanks for sharing. Great posts.
ReplyDeleteHi Ching,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for all the good photographs of your trips. Your experiences are really wide and deep which not many people have gone through. Keep it up and may God continue to bless you with a healthy body doing what you really like.
Best Regards,
Steven
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteI just came back from Hanoi on 23rd August 2010 but I couldn't get as much as you did compared with yr last trip in Hanoi. Prince 57 was closed and we end up staying in LuckyStar Hotel @ Bat Dan Street for USD20/night. For Hotel, we cant get anything less than USD10 & perhaps it is peak summer holidays? In Sapa, even Pinnochio hotel quote us for USD12 & told us never before they offer USD6.00 for 2pax. I got cheated from this Mr Minh of Paradieso Bar Cafe Restaurant of 7, Nguyen Sieu st., who promised us 1st class itinerary for Sapa 2nights stay including Bac Ha trip, but end up dangerous trekking to Hmong & Ta Van village, slippery muddy cause raining for USD110/pax. Tam Coc got it for USD19/pax which Mr minh promised us better lunch (end up lousy lunch) & Halong Bay for 2 nights promised us for Margaurite Sails for USD115 which is VIP but being short changed for Elizabeth sail which room are smaller & food are limited unlike Margaurite sail which provide plenty of food & room are bigger with fridge & TV. We compared notes with a Dutch family met at Sapa earlier & met them again at Halong Bay who stay in Margaurite sail paying same price USD115/pax. Overall I still enjoyed but not as value for money like what you did for yr traveling.
I like to thank you Mr ching for yr generous updating of yr fantastic trips around Asia Pacific & truly I enjoyed very much yr journals & photos of yr adventures. I salute to you and especially Uncle Yeong who is 72 yrs old.
Adeline
Hi Mr. Ching,
ReplyDeleteHow are you? Hope you still remember me. Its been many years i do not go trekking. Wahhhh.... after looking at your pictures, the trek to Cameron was so amazing!!! Hope i will have chance to do it.
I salute you!!!!
Chen Teng
Congrats Ching! Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to the day when I can join you & your group on trips. Regards H L Teoh. Public Bank
ReplyDeletehey, your blog design is very nice, clean and fresh and with updated content, make people feel peace and I always like browsing your site.
ReplyDelete- Thomas
Very much appreciate what you're doing here!
ReplyDeleteBeyond any doubt blog with usable informations.
ReplyDeleteHappy to see you are still going strong & having a good time :-)
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures... thanks for sharing.
Wishing you good health & many more mountains & tracks to go!
Cheers,
patrick lee