If you love nature and looking for natural heaven near Kuala Lumpur, don’t forget to visit the ever-serene Sungai Chiling (or the Chiling Waterfalls)! Even though it is 71.6 km from the capital and is located deep in the forest, this waterfall is still worth visiting.
Wondering why?
Well, that’s because Sungai Chiling is the MOST BEAUTIFUL WATERFALLS in Selangor, Malaysia!
Surrounded by deep forest and serenity, the Chiling Waterfalls is made of three separate vertical waterfalls. This unique feature makes it even more appealing and interesting.
Let me walk you through the beautiful Sungai Chiling so that you know everything about it before going there!
A Brief Introduction to The Sungai Chiling
Sungai Chilling, or the Chiling Waterfalls, flows 400 meters above sea level in a fish reservoir known as the Sungai Chiling Fish Sanctuary. It is located at the foothills of Fraser’s Hil, which is right after the Selangor Dam and close to the Sungai Pertak.
Both the waterfall and fish sanctuary are in the northeast of Selangor and is managed by the State Fisheries Department.
Even though the primary purpose of this place is to serve as a natural habitat for the Mahseer fish, it keeps attracting visitors and hikers because of its beauty and adventure.
Besides the fact that it is made from three different waterfalls, Sungai is also famous for its height. It is 80 meters high and creates an illusion that it flows from the sky.
Surrounded by deep forests, unique flora, and fauna, the chilling waterfalls will never cease to impress you throughout the way.
Sungai Chiling Opening and Closing Hours
One thing that most visitors wonder before going to the Sungai Chiling is about its opening and closing hours.
Sungai Chiling is open from 8 am to 4:30 pm every Saturday and Sunday. However, remember you cannot go to the waterfall after 1 pm for safety reasons.
The Sungai Chiling Waterfalls is closed from Monday to Thursday and during all public holidays. It also shuts down its doors during heavy rainfall.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Sungai Chiling?
The best time to visit the Sungai Chiling Waterfalls is anytime during the year other than the Monsoon. As during Monsoon, there is heavy rainfall, and the trek to the waterfalls becomes quite dangerous; it’s not safe to visit there.
Also, during this season, the water level of the fish sanctuary rises high, which also makes it unsafe for the tourist.
Activities to Do in Sungai Chiling
If you are wondering what you can do in the picturesque Sungai Chiling, here’s a list of activities I have just for you.
Witness The Stunning Waterfalls and the Fish Sanctuary
One of the main reasons people go to the Sungai Chilings is to see the oh-so-beautiful Chiling Waterfalls. The 80m tall falls with the fish sanctuary at the base create an interesting combination and make the spot even more alluring. You can get drenched and enjoy being in the water while witnessing the grandeur of the falls.
Trekking And Hiking
As the waterfall is surrounded by deep forest with trails, it is a heaven for trekking enthusiasts. If you are a hiker, the Sungai Chiling is your place to be. It has about a 40–45-minute hiking trek surrounded by deep forest and a stunning atmosphere. You can explore nature while making your way to the reservoir.
Camping
If you are adventurous, you can camp near the river and enjoy the gorgeousness of nature even more closely.
You can camp near the Sungai Chiling Fish Sanctuary and spend an adventurous night there. For camping, tents, and payments, talk to the Rangers Office for detailed information.
However, remember to select a safe and suitable spot and maintain all the safety measures while camping in the Sungai Chiling.
How Much Will It Cost to Visit the Sungai Chiling?
The cost of visiting Sungai Chiling may vary on various things. But then again, let’s give you an idea of the cost for your convenience.
Transportation: Depending on the type of transportation you use, car, bus, train, or taxi, it will cost you somewhere between RM 13.73 to RM 343.30.
Registration Fees: To enter the Chilling Waterfalls trek, you need to pay a registration fee of RM 1. If you want to camp on the site, you have to pay RM 4 per camping tent. Moreover, you also need to deposit RM 50-150, depending on the group size.
Additional Costs: If you bring any plastic bags or plastic bottles, you must pay RM 3 per plastic bag or bottle while entering the trek. You can get the deposit back if you bring back the items when you are getting out.
Travel Tips for Sungai Chiling
As Sungai Chiling is a popular yet somewhat dangerous spot to reach, you must keep in mind a few things before going there. We have listed a few tips and tricks you can follow for your safety.
- Before planning, check the weather forecast of the Chiling Waterfalls region. As you need to trek and pass through deep forest, make sure the weather is sunny before hitting the area.
- Keep in mind that the Sungai Chiling remains closed during heavy rainfalls to ensure the safety of the visitors.
- Try to start your trekking early in the morning (around 8 am and onwards). It will give you more time to explore and yet get back to the bay on time safely.
- Leave the site before 5 pm. Otherwise, there are high chances that you might get lost.
- Don’t forget to inform the registration office upon your return to ensure that you are not lost deep in the forest.
- Since you need to cross the river a few times and walk through the trek, wear shoes that are water-resistant and have an excellent grip. This will ensure your safety.
- Also, try to wear quick-drying clothes for your comfort.
- Even though it is a fishing sanctuary, remember that fishing is not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Permit to Visit Sungai Chiling?
No, you won’t need any permit from any authority before visiting the Sungai Chiling. However, you need to register at the counter to inform them that you are going on the trek.
Is It Safe to Visit Sungai Chiling During Monsoon?
No, it’s not safe to visit the Chiling Waterfalls during the Monsoon. As heavy rainfall not only raises the water level but also makes the trek slippery, it’s extremely dangerous to go there during the rainy seasons.
Nearby Housing Options
The Sungai Chilling isn’t too far from Kuala Lumpur. And that’s why you might not want to stay there and look for accommodations. However, if you still need to spend a night or two, you can always look for accommodation options.
Now that you know everything you need to know about the picturesque Sungai Chiling, what are you waiting for? Just put on your trekking shoes and start for this oh-so-beautiful fish sanctuary. It will definitely satisfy your wandering mind.
