There’s more to Negeri Sembilan than the famous Port Dickson. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, why not check out the following trails?

This peak in Bukit Sawa offers breathtaking views of the expansive forest below. (Anne Grace Savitha pic)

PETALING JAYA: Mention hiking trails, and you’ll most likely rattle off the more famous ones in the Klang Valley – Bukit Gasing, Broga Hill, Bukit Kiara or even Bukit Kutu.

However, there are also challenging and breath-taking trails in the neighbouring state of Negeri Sembilan.

Clearly, it’s time to round up some friends and free up your weekend for a fun-filled hiking trip.

1. Tanjung Tuan recreational forest

One of the trails at Tanjung Tuan leads you to this picturesque lighthouse. (Unsplash pic)

Offering one of the best sceneries due to its location overlooking the Straits of Melaka, this forest reserve has five to six trails to choose from.

Whether you’re up for a simple picnic or into birdwatching, this forest is host to a magnificent abundance of flora and fauna that will fascinate you.

One trail shutterbugs love is the peak of Bukit Batu Putih, which offers the view of the breath-taking sea.

Another trail leads you to an ancient Dutch well (if you can spot it) as you enter the forest.

If you simply cannot wait to cool off after the long hike, choose the trail that leads you to a secluded beach, where you’ll pass the iconic Port Dickson lighthouse.

2. Gunung Datuk

Considered a tough hike, the view from the summit of Gunung Datuk is definitely rewarding after the strenuous ascend. (Unsplash pic)

Located in Rembau, and approximately one hour from Seremban town, this mountain is known for its strenuous ascent during the first hour of the hike due to its steep incline.

Don’t be surprised if you spot troupes of monkeys perched on branches above as you make your way up.

With a height of 885 metres, Gunung Datuk is the perfect spot for anyone wishing to train to conquer peaks such as Mount Kinabalu or any of the seven highest peaks in Peninsular Malaysia.

After a two-hour hike, huge boulders with ladders attached to them will come into view. The boulders are a marker that you’re very near to the peak. So, press on, and you’ll be rewarded with the view of the Straits of Melaka from the summit.

3. Bukit Batu Sawa

A ‘magical’ spot on this site is where the tree trunks are red and not brown. (Anne Grace Savitha pic)

Not a well-known hiking spot by outsiders, this trail is frequented mostly by local hikers who know of its ‘sea of clouds’ that they encounter if they reach the summit by 7.00am or so.

What makes this trail interesting is the many different terrains you’ll encounter: the first being a rubber estate, and then the actual forest.

Closer to the peak, the forest takes on a different hue, as many of the tree trunks here are not brown but red. The thick carpet of dried leaves makes this forest look like something out of a fairy tale, so bring out your cameras.

A short walk from this spot will take you to the very peak where you can sit on a huge boulder amidst the backdrop of lush greenery and take in the forest below. Many hikers will be here queuing to get a shot, so make sure you line up and watch your step!

4. Gunung Berembun

If you’re a history buff then you’ll be pleased to know that Gunung Berembun is the site of a plane crash that occurred during World War 2.

It is therefore understandably popular with hikers fascinated with the wreckage. If you’re unsure of which route leads to the crash site, it’s best to bring an experienced hiker along with you.

The entire route is a rather long one, spanning 26 kilometres, and taking over seven hours depending on how fit you are. Make sure to start early so that you’ll be able to finish the trail before it gets dark.

5. Bukit Taisho

Be sure to start your hike early to catch the sunrise at the summit of Bukit Taisho. (Anne Grace Savitha pic)

A popular trail among those living in Bahau, this hike is great for families with young children as it’s a fairly easy climb. If you want to catch the sunrise, start your hike early so you can reach the peak by 7.00am.

Along the hike, you’ll pass palm oil plantations and a rest area. Decorated with lanterns and flowers, this spot is a great place to take a breather before continuing on your way.