Niah Caves: Explore the Ancient Wonders of Sarawak
Niah Caves, located in Sarawak, Malaysia, is one of the most impressive and historically significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. This ancient limestone cave system is estimated to be around 40,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known human settlements in the world. A visit to Niah Caves is a must-do for any traveler looking to explore the natural wonders and rich history of Malaysia.
About Niah Caves
Niah Caves is a massive limestone cave system located in Sarawak, Malaysia. It is estimated to be around 40,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known human settlements in the world. The caves are home to some of the oldest artefacts and human remains ever discovered, including the famous “Deep Skull”, an ancient skull believed to be around 30,000 years old.
The caves are also home to an array of different birds and bats, which can be seen flitting around the large caverns. The largest cavern in the cave system is the Great Cave, which is also the most popular with tourists. This large chamber is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a large lake and some interesting rock formations.
What to See and Do at Niah Caves
When visiting Niah Caves, the first thing you should do is take the guided tour of the Great Cave. This tour will take you through the largest chamber of the cave system, and will give you an up close look at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites. You can also take a boat ride on the lake and explore the other chambers of the cave.
For those looking to learn more about the history of Niah Caves, you can visit the Niah Caves Archaeological Museum. This museum is home to a collection of artefacts and human remains that have been discovered in the caves, and provides an insight into the past.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can also explore the surrounding forest. This forest is home to a variety of different birds, monkeys, and other animals. It is also a great place to go for a hike and explore the stunning natural landscape of Sarawak.
How to Get to Niah Caves
The easiest way to get to Niah Caves is to fly to Miri from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the town of Batu Niah, which is located just outside the Niah National Park. Once at the town, you can take a boat from the jetty to the entrance of the caves.
The entrance fee for Niah Caves is RM10 per person, and the guided tour of the Great Cave is an additional RM10 per person. The entrance fee also includes access to the Niah Caves Archaeological Museum.
Conclusion
Niah Caves is an incredible archaeological site that is full of history and natural beauty. It is an absolute must-do for any traveler looking to explore the wonders of Sarawak, Malaysia. From the ancient artefacts to the stunning limestone formations, Niah Caves is sure to be an unforgettable experience.