Your Go-to Mulu Caves Adventure Guide for a Complete Experience!
Having been to the majestic Mulu Caves of Sarawak recently, I can honestly say that everyone should visit at least once in their life.
Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage rainforest park known for its karst formations, limestone caves, and rich biodiversity. These formations are the most studied worldwide, which is why many researchers frequently visit this place.
But more than just a top research destination, Mulu National Park is a haven for those who need fresh air and relaxation, away from the stressors of the city, like me.
Gunung Mulu National Park has so many activities fit for all ages. So if you’re a family looking for your next holiday destination, someone seeking out heritage sites, or a nature lover craving adventure, then this guide is perfect for you!
Where are the Mulu Caves?
The Mulu Caves are located in Gunung Mulu National Park, which is in Sarawak, Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. It’s about 270 km east of Kota Kinabalu.
Best Time To Go to the Mulu Caves
While the park is open the whole year, visit during the dry season between July and September. This gives you a higher chance of good weather to explore the sights and maximize your trip.
That said, you need to note that Mulu is prone to unpredictable weather changes, causing flight delays or cancellations. So, make sure the ticket you book can be rescheduled if needed.
How To Get to the Mulu Caves
To get to Gunung Mulu National Park, you’ll first need to get to Sarawak. You can fly via MasWings, which is a subsidiary of Malaysian Airlines. There are direct flights from Miri, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu.
There are daily flights from Miri to Mulu, while flights from Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are available weekly.
Once you arrive at Mulu Airport, shuttle vans are available to take you to your hotel or directly to Gunung Mulu National Park. Usually, airport transfers are included when you book a tour package. Just make sure to coordinate your flight details in advance.
Things to Know
Address: Borsarmulu Park Management Sdn Bhd No 11, Pekan Mulu, 98070 Sarawak
Number: (+60 85) 792 600/601/602/603
Email Address: [email protected]
Booking Your Tour: You have a lot of options in booking a tour. You can book directly with Mulu National Park or opt to book via trusted travel agencies such as Amazing Borneo Tours and Holidaygogogo.
If you’re booking through Mulu National Park, here are sample package tours for your reference:
What To Do and See at Mulu Caves
Explore the caves
– Media Credit: carmen_tosca
Of course, a trip to Mulu won’t be complete without visiting the caves. Mulu National Park has the following: Deer and Lang Caves, Clearwater Cave and Cave of the Winds, and The Fast Lane. Here are some notes for each one:
Deer and Lang Caves
– Media Credit: kkimkimpossible
Deer and Lang Caves are found in the southern part of the park. They’re two separate caves that are around 150 meters apart.
Lang Cave is the smallest cave in the park, while Deer Cave is the biggest. It’s the largest cave passage in the world.
When it’s not raining, you can see the “Bat Exodus” that happens around 4:30-6:30. It’s truly an amazing sight, seeing millions of bats fly out of the cave. Make sure to have your cameras ready!
Clearwater Cave & Cave of the Winds
– Media credit: adventurousness
Found in Ganung Api, Clearwater Cave, and Cave of the Winds have amazing stalagmites and columns. The views of the river and the beautiful flowers in the area.
Bring your water, a torchlight, a raincoat, and nonslip shoes for a pleasant experience!
The Fast Lane
– Media credit: river.junkie
The cave features a 1.5-kilometer walkway with beautiful formations and passages. Some selected areas are lit, but have your torchlight handy so you can enjoy the sights.
Aside from seeing the caves, you’ll also enjoy a longboat ride to get there, as well as a relaxing walk in the forest.
Enjoy a good hike or trek
– Media Credit: uncle_ben___
Hiking is one of the main activities here in Mulu. They have trails such as the Long Litut Walking Trail featured in a lot of the tour packages.
They also have the Mulu Botanical Heritage Trail, which is free of charge to visit. They have two loops of around 1.5 km each.
The trails are relatively easy, and the pace is manageable. Just make sure to hydrate and to only explore these areas with a guide.
If you’re up for a challenge, you can also book the tour to climb The Pinnacles. Based on my conversations with those who climbed, they mentioned that it was challenging but rewarding once you see the view.
Go on a canopy walk
– Media Credit: megsymckay
Going on a canopy walk is perfect for families with children aged six years old and above. It’s a 420-meter tree-based canopy walk that you can do at a relaxed pace to enjoy the sights of the tree tops.
Mulu’s Canopy Walk is one of the longest in the world. It’s so peaceful when you just take the sights in.
Just make sure to follow what the guides are saying! Don’t be too rowdy and make sure to be aware of your children.
What To Eat and Drink at Mulu Caves
M Cafe
– Media Credit: mulumarriott
Opening Hours: Daily (6:30 AM to 10:00 PM)
Address: Sungai Melinau No. 12, Pekan Mulu, Gunung Mulu National Park
Mulu Marriott’s M Cafe’s specialty is comforting Malaysian food. If you love spicy, aromatic dishes, you’ll have a great time here. Aside from Malaysian food, they also have a lot of Western options.
They have an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs cook, and they have indoor and outdoor dining. You can see the poolside when you eat outside.
They’re vegetarian-friendly as well. For payment options, just like anywhere on the island, cash is preferred. However, they also take Mastercard and Visa.
Their prices are relatively expensive, but if you’re already staying in Marriott, this is a convenient place to enjoy good food.
Good Luck Cave’fe Mulu
– Media Credit: muluparadise
Opening Hours: Daily (11 AM–2 PM, 6–9 PM)
Address: Sungai Melinau No. 12, Pekan Mulu, Gunung Mulu National Park
If you’re on the lookout for simple and authentic Malaysian food, you can’t go wrong with this cafe. Our favorite dish here is Asam Pedas Ayam Rebung, or hot and sour chicken bamboo shoots.
The place is clean, and the servers are friendly. Plus, the ambience is beautiful, and you can eat while enjoying the view of the landscape.
Where To Stay
Accommodation at Mulu is typically included when you book a tour. However, if you want to DIY your itinerary, here are some options for you. The rooms are limited, so advance booking is needed, especially during peak seasons.
Mulu World Heritage Area Accommodation
– Media Credit: mulunationalparkofficial
Contact number: (+60 85) 792 600/601/602/603
Address: Gunung Mulu National Park No 11, Mulu National Park Pekan Mulu
98070, Miri
The Mulu National Park offers various accommodation options for different needs. They have deluxe bungalows perfect for small families, longhouses that can be quadruple-shared, family suites, and even hostels.
Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa
– Media Credit: mulumarriott
Contact number: +60 85-792 388
Address: Sungai Melinau, 98008 Mulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Mulu Marriott is the only luxury hotel in the area, so expect that slots will fill up fast. Because of the large influx of customers, they usually just take some time to check you in. But the staff are friendly and hospitable, they’re very easy to talk to.
The rooms are fully air-conditioned, and the bathrooms are top-notch. The amenities and spa are also a real treat.
Homestays
Another option is to book a Homestay in Mulu, which is relatively more affordable, ranging from RM 100-180 a night. There are plenty of places to choose from, and here are our top picks:
AA Homestay
Address: Jalan Mulu National Park No 16 Kampung Sungai
They have simple family rooms with private bathrooms, desks, and common seating areas. They also serve good and hearty meals here. While the interiors aren’t fancy, we like that the rooms feel cozy.
Mulu D Cave Homestay Room 2
Address: No 13 kampung i Melinau
This homestay is 10 minutes away from the park. They have family rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and WiFi. The place looks modern, clean, and well-kept.
Mulu Diana Homestay
– Media Credit: Mulu Diana Homestay
Address: Kampung Melinau No. 43
If you’re looking for somewhere convenient, this is a good option. Each room here is air-conditioned with a private bathroom, kitchenette, washing machine, and toiletries.
You also don’t have to worry about food because they have an in-house restaurant with a ton of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free options!
Where To Shop
There aren’t a lot of shopping areas in Mulu Caves. However, there is a gift shop located inside the park called Mulu Gallery/Shop where they sell souvenirs such as t-shirts, caps, pins, raincoats, and handicrafts created by locals.
What to Pack for Your Mulu Cave Trip
Here are some must-haves for the trip:
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Change of clothes
- Hat or umbrella
- Camera
- Swimsuit
- Sanitizing wipes and rubbing alcohol
- Toiletries
- Personal medicine
- First-aid kit
- Snacks like trail mix
- Extra cash
Conservation Etiquette and Safety Reminders When in Mulu Caves
The place is a remote and protected area, so everyone needs to follow the rules and reminders:
- Don’t litter. There are designated trash cans around the area. Keep your trash in your bag until you see one.
- Don’t bring home anything but memories. Don’t pick flowers or plants to take home as souvenirs. Please also keep a respectful distance from the animals and cave-dwelling wildlife.
- Stay on the tour guide’s designated paths. Don’t go exploring the forest area alone. Make sure to always inform your guides of your whereabouts.
- Don’t touch the cave formations. These can be easily damaged.
- Avoid strong scents. Use products that are unscented to avoid scaring off wildlife.
- Quiet, please. Try to minimize noise and any disturbance.