Malaysia: Fun For Nature Lovers

KL FOREST ECO PARK

This thick pocket of primary rainforest covers 937 hectares in the heart of the capital and has a lofty canopy walkway. The oldest protected jungle in Malaysia, the park is commonly known as Bukit Nanas (Pineapple Hill), and is threaded with short trails up from either Jalan Ampang or Jalan Raja Chulan. Pick up a map from the Forest Information Centre on Jalan Raja Chulan.

KL BIRD PARK

Some 3,000 birds and 200 species of (mostly) Asian birds are the prize at this 21-hectare aviary. In the first two sections, birds fly freely beneath an enormous canopy. Section three features native horn bills, while section four offers the less – edifying spectacle of caged species. Check online for feeding times; bird shows run at 12.30pm and 3.30pm.

BATU CAVES

One of Malaysia’s holiest Hindu sites, these giant limestone caves lie eight miles north of KL. Their tern pies have drawn pilgrims for over 120 years. Tern pie Cave is free, but Ramayana Cave (£1) is the scenic stand-out. The Dark Cave can be toured with the Malaysian Nature Society {£7).Thaipusam festival in January/February is fascinating.

ECO CAMERON

In the Cameron Highlands (Malaysia’s largest hill-station area), eucalyptus freshens the breeze and tea plantations roll into the distance. Eco Cameron offers specialist nature tours (hikes, orchid walks, birdwatching, insect-spotting) and exclusive access to a protected Mossy Forest trail.