Gunung Jerai

Introduction

Gunung Jerai, located in the northern state of Kedah is 1200 meters above sea-level. In the olden days, Kedah Perak as it was then known played an important role as a navigating point for sailors from as far as the Middle East and Europe. Today, Gunung Jerai is Kedah's premier hill resort and recreational park. On a clear day atop the peak, the cool, refreshing mountain offers spectacular views of the rolling paddy fields of Kedah stretching up to Perlis, and the islands of Penang in the south and Langkawi in the north-west.

History

Like all other mountains, Gunung Jerai has its fair share of history and fascinating tales. Legend has it that Raja Bersiong, the 'king of fangs' once had his ancient kingdom within the Bujang Valley, at the foot of the mountain. Relics uncovered in the area provide evidence of a Hindu-Buddhist civilization dating back to the fourth century A-D.

Isolated from the other mountain ranges of Peninsular Malaysia, Gunung Jerai has a unique range of medicinal plants and herbs not found in other mountains.

Sungai Teroi Forest Recreational Park A haven for a variety of unique mountain flora and fauna. Orchids, rhododendrons, pitcher plants grow abundantly within the park. Hiking Trails along wooded areas leading to the picnic site provide opportunities for nature lovers to enjoy leisurely strolls. The beauty of Gunung Jerai is best experienced while jungle trekking through the natural splendour of this rainforest treasure. For the move adventurous, camping sites, are provided along the trails. Basic camping facilities are available at a nominal fee of RM3 per person.

For a cool refreshing retreat, 30 minutes of brisk jungle trekking from the Gunung Jerai Resort leads one to the breathtaking sight of a clear mountain stream cascading down the hilly slopes.

A visit to the Foresty Museum which is located halfway up the hill will provide a wealth of information on various species of wood collected from Malaysian highland areas.

Accommodation

Located 1.083 meters up the mountain is the 39-room Gunug Jerai Resort. Built in the 1920's, the original rest house is reminiscent of similar buildings in the English countryside. There are 6 family chalets, with a choice of either 3 bedrooms or 2 bedrooms, set amidst beautiful natural greenery and flowering plants. Each chalet has a dining and living room and is well equipped with cooking facilitiues.

How To Get There

Gunung Jerai is easily accessible by road from the town of Gurun which is approximately 33km south of Alor Setar via the trunk road or the North-South Expressway. Alor Setar is served by Malaysia Airlines from Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kota Bharu. Express buses, outstation taxis and Keretapi Tanah Melayu trains offer regular services from Butterworth to Alor Setar. Public buses ply from Alor Setar to the foothill of Gunung Jerai every 45 minutes or from Sungai Petani every 30 minutes. Private taxis charge a fare of RM6 for a round trip from the foothills to the resort and back.