If you're looking for a truly spectacular natural wonder in Malaysia, Gunung Stong should definitely be on your list! This magnificent mountain has been around for a whopping 500 million years, boasting a distinctive dome-shaped granite top that reaches an incredible 1,422 meters above sea level. It is located at Kuala Krai in Kelantan, right in the heart of the Gunung Stong State Forest Park. Covering a vast area of 21,950 hectares, this incredible forest reserve was officially designated as a state park and eco-tourism attraction back in 2007.

Read also: Taman Negara Pahang, Malaysia

Table of Content

1. Hiking Distance & Difficulty
2. Travel & Hiking Tips
3. Gunung Stong Package & Permit
4. Stong Hill Resort
5. How to Get to Gunung Stong
6. Contact Information

Gunung Stong Kelantan Hiking

Gunung Stong Kelantan Hiking Trails

Hiking Distance & Difficulty

Ready to embark on a thrilling adventure? To begin your journey, head to Baha Camp, which is conveniently located near Jelawang waterfall - Southeast Asia's highest waterfall with a jaw-dropping 300-meter plunge! You also won't want to miss swimming in the refreshing pool at its base.

The trek to the summit and back will take about a day, covering roughly 14.4 kilometres. Depending on your fitness level and the weather, you can expect the journey to take around 4-5 hours, including a three-hour return trip. Along the way, you'll be treated to beautiful views as you make your way through the Seven Summits track, which takes you through an abandoned logging trail and the pristine oak-laurel forest. Keep an eye out for the rare indigenous bamboo, Holtummochloa pubescens! Halfway between the base camp and summit, you'll find Bogo's Rock Shelter, which is a great spot to rest and enjoy a simple lunch before continuing your climb.

When you finally reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the South China Sea and clouds above, especially if you time it right at dusk or early morning. Don't forget to check out the giant stone cob with a bonsai tree on top, known as 'setong' in the local dialect - it's a true marvel to behold!

You'll be treated to beautiful views as you make your way to the summit of Gunung Stong

Jelawang waterfall, also known as Stong waterfall at Gunung Stong

Travel & Hiking Tips

For the best experience, plan your visit for the middle of the year when the rain is less frequent. To beat the heat and avoid the occasional shower, start your hike early in the morning. You'll also get to enjoy the magical morning mist - a true treat for the senses!

The hike to the peak typically takes around 3-4 hours, so be sure to plan your time carefully. If it's getting late, we recommend that you stay overnight and continue your adventure the next day.

The trek to the summit of Gunung Stong and back will take about a day, covering roughly 14.4 kilometres.

Gunung Stong Package & Permit

Before embarking on this exciting hike, keep in mind that a permit and guide are mandatory. There are several trusted tour operators in the area that can provide expert guides to help you navigate the trails, listed below:

BAT Guides

One such operator is BAT Guides, who have been guiding visitors through GSSFP since the 1990s. Their daily rates of RM90 cover all hiking destinations within the park. For those looking to spend the night, they also offer campsites for just RM3 per person per night and simple cottages above the waterfall for RM10 per person per night. To book your guide, give them a call at 019-959-1020 or send an email to batgssp@yahoo.com.

KESEDAR Travel

Another great option is KESEDAR Travel, a subsidiary of the federal land development organisation KESEDAR. They offer 2-3 day packages for GSSFP guests and can be reached at 09-9121-788 or via email at ksgm@kesedar.gov.my.

KB Backpackers Holidays

KB Backpackers Holidays offers regular packaged visits to GSSFP and can be reached at 09-7737-077.

Stong Hill Resort

Stong Hill Resort Kuala Kerai is a fantastic resort just a stone's throw away from the stunning Jelawang Waterfall, and only a 65-minute drive from the charming Kampung Kuala Besut. Nestled next to the breathtaking Gunung Stong State Park, the resort boasts comfortable rooms with a lounge, patio, and balcony, as well as an on-site restaurant serving up delicious meals. The resort also features an aqua park, sundeck, and water slides, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled family vacation or a romantic weekend getaway.

How to Get to Gunung Stong

You can reach this park by taking Highway 66 from Dabong and driving about 5 kilometres before leaving onto Highway D29. When you arrive, you must walk for 10 minutes to reach the starting point of the Jelawang Waterfall. The concrete trail leading to the top of the waterfall and Camp Baha can be seen from there.

Contact Information

Address: Dabong Forest Reseve, 18200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan

Contact number: +609-748 2140

If you wish to hike this mountain, be sure to read the information thoroughly. We hope you will experience the best hiking adventure at Gunung Stong! Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!