The Best Known Waterfalls in Malaysia

Imagine an enchanting Southeast Asian nation where vast rainforests reverberate with the symphony of nature, rivers weave intricate networks across the landscape, and a tropical climate nurtures a diverse array of flora and fauna. This is Malaysia, a hidden treasure with an abundance of breathtaking cascades and cataracts.

In Malaysia, these moments are not mere imagination but are vivid realities awaiting at every corner. From secluded spots hidden deep in verdant jungles to spectacular cataracts that are popular attractions, the waterfalls of Malaysia are as varied as they are beautiful, each offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature’s awe-inspiring grandeur.

Join us as we tour through this biodiverse haven, unveiling the must-see waterfalls in Malaysia.

The Mahua Waterfall in the Sabah district of Tambunan is one of the best-known waterfalls in Malaysia. Known in Malay as Air Terjun Mahua, it showers down 56 feet into the plunge pool below. Not only is the waterfall pretty, but its setting in a dense forest, with butterflies all around, gives it the air of a fairy tale.

There’s a very good reason behind the name of Lembing Rainbow Waterfall. Yes, you’ve guessed it; rainbows. Whilst the pretty prisms tend to form around waterfalls thanks to the large amounts of mist, water and sunlight, this picturesque cataract in Sungai Lembing in Pahang is renowned above all other Malaysian waterfalls for their presence.

Widely considered the best waterfall Selangor has to offer, Chiling Waterfall is a 66-foot deluge funnelled through glimmering dark rock walls. Located within a fish sanctuary, there are actually three levels to this waterfall, but only one is visible. Nonetheless, it is an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Flowing down from Kledang Hills in Perak, the waters of Ulu Chepor form a series of pools and cascades in its own bucolic park. These may not be the biggest waterfalls in Malaysia, or the most powerful, but they create a serene setting.

Mat Cincang Nature Park on the island of Langkawi is home to Temurun Waterfall. Estimates as to the height of this cataract range widely, from 130 to 200 metres, although it’s generally recognised as the tallest on the island, as well as one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia. It’s certainly an impressive sight, the waters rushing down a rugged rock face several hundred million years in the making.

There are several other waterfalls on Langkawi, including the spectacular Telaga Tujuh. The name, which translates as “seven wells,” refers to seven pools interconnected by waterfalls. With its smooth rocks, lush rainforest surroundings, and varied wildlife, this is one of the prettiest waterfalls in Malaysia. Like Temurun, it’s within the remit of Mount Mat Cincang, but further west.

This awe-inspiring list of the waterfalls of Malaysia highlights those many consider to be Malaysia’s best waterfalls. Yet there are many more wondrous cascades of all kinds to be found throughout the country. Indeed, Malaysia’s waterfalls are natural wonders, each uniquely contributing to the rich tapestry of the nation’s landscapes. From the highest, thunderous cascades plunging down rugged cliffs, to the gentlest trickles meandering through lush rainforests and forming serene pools, these features sculpt the country’s terrain and breathe life into its ecosystems.

Each waterfall, whether it is in East Malaysia, Peninsular Malaysia, or on Langkawi Island, possesses a distinctive charm and character. The sheer drop of Mahua Waterfall, the rainbow-lit spray of Lembing Rainbow Waterfall, the multi-tiered spectacle of Chiling Waterfall, or the multiple cascades of Telaga Tujuh Waterfall – all of them encapsulate different aspects of Malaysia’s natural beauty.

These waterfalls also provide vital habitats for a myriad of species, making them important anchors for biodiversity. From the flitting butterflies at Mahua to the varied wildlife at Telaga Tujuh, the symbiotic relationship between these waterfalls and their resident fauna and flora is a testament to the intricate web of life that thrives in Malaysia’s rich biospheres.