Danger Lurks in the Depths:An Epic Quest into the Enigmatic "Massa Cave" at Kampung Semadang, Padawan

Our guide his name is Hanas (6012-890 7044) is a Bidayuh, and the cave is just behind his family farmhouse. The trip to the cave was an escapade in itself. My little brother and I had to trek through the rainforest for around 15 minutes before arriving at the opening of the cave. The surroundings were luxuriant and verdant, with towering trees and the sound of birds singing in the background. We had to traverse a stream to reach the cave.

How is a cave formed? The limestone mountain that the author ascended is composed of a type of rock known as sedimentary rock, which is produced from layers of sediment that amass over time. This sediment is frequently composed of the shells and skeletons of marine creatures, meaning that limestone is rich in calcium carbonate.

Over time, somewhat acidic groundwater can dissolve the calcium carbonate in the rock, forming small fissures and cavities. As the water flows through the rock, it can produce increasingly larger cavities, ultimately creating the complex cave systems we witness today.

Upon reaching the bottom of the limestone mountain, we then had to ascend to the lower mid-section of the cave since that’s where the entrance was situated. It was a challenging trek, but it was worth it when we arrived at our destination.

As we entered the cave, we were welcomed by a refreshing breeze and the sound of water dripping from the stalactites overhead. The cave was damp and dark, but it was filled with fascinating sights such as stalagmites and stalactites that appeared to go on eternally. We were also greeted by a few bats swiftly flying beside us in and out of the cave.

Inside the cave, there were numerous tiny chambers that were interconnected with one another. We spotted many creatures such as bats, flying insects, tarantulas, and crickets. The bats were perched on the ceiling while their guano was beneath them. There were numerous flying insects on the guano since I was wearing a headlight and my face was occasionally targeted by the flying insects, as they attempted to approach the light.

We felt a sense of wonder as we explored the cave’s numerous chambers. We couldn’t help but marvel at how nature had formed such a stunning place. The stalactites and stalagmites were akin to works of art that had been sculpted over thousands of years.

As we proceeded deeper into the cave, we noticed that it was becoming darker and more humid. We could hear the sound of water dripping from overhead and the infrequent fluttering of bat wings.

We continued our exploration through the cave, taking in all of its sights and sounds. We saw more creatures such as crickets and tarantulas scurrying along the walls. We also observed that there were numerous types of rocks and minerals in the cave. Our guide utilized his machete knife to strike the stalagmites, and surprisingly it sounded like a musical instrument being played.

Stalactites are formed from the cave's ceiling, where water drips down and deposits small amounts of calcium carbonate. Over time, these deposits accumulate, forming the long, thin structures we call stalactites.

Stalagmites, on the other hand, form on the cave's floor. They grow upwards from the ground as mineral-rich water drips down and deposits calcium carbonate. Over time, these deposits accumulate into tall, conical structures that can take hundreds or even thousands of years to form.

There were also several narrow passages that required us to crawl through them on our hands and knees. Some of the passages were steep, while others had a sizable drop or required us to climb a few meters up.

In one of the chambers, there was a large hole above it that allowed sunlight to filter through during the afternoon, creating a beam of light that illuminated the cave's interior.

After what felt like hours of exploring, we finally reached the end of the cave. In my opinion, venturing into a cave like this one is not just an adventure, but also an opportunity to learn about the fascinating geological processes that shape our world, as well as the rich ecosystems that can thrive in even the most inhospitable environments.

Beyond their geological significance, caves like this one also have ecological value. Bats, for instance, play an important role in many cave ecosystems by serving as pollinators and helping to regulate insect populations. The guano they produce can also provide important nutrients for other creatures that inhabit the cave.

Overall, the journey to the cave was an adventure in itself, with lush green surroundings on the outside and the sounds of chirping bats adding to the beauty of the experience. The complex cave systems that we saw were a testament to the fascinating processes that have shaped our world over thousands of years. The awe-inspiring sights, sounds, and creatures that we encountered within the cave only added to the wonder of the experience.

Exploring the cave was an unforgettable experience that gave us a glimpse into the intricate and fascinating world of nature. It is a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things and how much there is to learn and discover in this world.

However, it is important to remember that caves are delicate environments that require our respect and protection. As visitors, it is our responsibility to take care of these natural wonders and leave them as we found them. Let us not take anything but photos, leave nothing but a footprint, and try our best not to touch the stalagmites and stalactites for them to form naturally.

By doing so, we can preserve these magnificent structures for future generations to enjoy and continue to learn from. Let us take the time to appreciate and protect the natural wonders that surround us, and let us always remember to be responsible stewards of the environment.

Exploring the Mesmerizing Wonders of Silabur Cave: A Journey into Nature's Beauty

The previous week, I began an exhilarating escapade to Silabur Cave, an astonishing sandstone cavern nestled in the core of a grand hill. Found in a secluded spot in Tebakang, Serian, reaching the cave demanded hiring a knowledgeable local guide, whose proficiency amplified the excitement of the expedition. The guide fee of RM80 was small for the unequalled occurrence waiting for me.

After reaching the location, I was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the cave structure. The passages, intricately connected and spanning the sandstone hill, were a testament to the marvels of nature. Even though the lower portion of the cave was inaccessible to the public, as it was set aside for the local people who collect nets built by Swiftlets, the upper section was available for exploration.

As I ventured further into the cave, I was greeted by two mammoth chambers, each with a fascinating opening at the top. On sunny days, the sunbeams penetrated through the openings, creating a surreal view as they brightened up the cave-like angelic rays. It was a sight that left me in awe, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for the raw beauty of nature.

Even though the chambers lacked the usual stalactites and columns, I found them in smaller, darker caverns within the system. Navigating through narrow corridors and uncover hidden treasures was thrilling, marvelling at the intricate formations that decorated the cave walls.

One of the high points of the cave was a chamber with waist-deep water. The transparent water was tempting, and I couldn't resist wading in. Nevertheless, as I delved further into the cave, the water turned murky due to the stirred-up mud, increasing the adventurous atmosphere of the experience.

Throughout my exploration, my guide entertained me with fascinating stories of the cave's history and local folklore, enhancing my journey with captivating insights. The entire experience was genuinely unforgettable, and I left Silabur Cave with a sense of amazement and admiration for the natural wonders that abound in our world.

Silabur Cave is a must-see place for any daring traveller seeking an extraordinary experience. From hiring a local guide to exploring the awe-inspiring chambers and discovering hidden treasures, this sandstone cave provides an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with enduring memories.

Embark on an Epic Adventure to the Twin Waterfalls of Mureh: Hiking Through Paddy Fields and Jungle in West Kalimantan

Welcome to the Mureh Waterfall hike, located in the beautiful Gun Tembawang region of west Kalimantan. This adventurous journey will take you through paddy fields and dense jungles, leading to a breathtaking twin waterfall that will leave you in awe.

My friends and I, a group of hikers, set off on a weekend excursion from Kuching, driving to the border of Sarawak. As we reached the border, we waited eagerly for our guide and bike riders to take us to the trailhead, ready to embark on our journey. But do not expect they will be there on time even if both parties had agreed on the said time. 

We waited for almost half an hour, and finally, we saw our transporter come with their bikes. As we hopped on our bikes, we were greeted with the warm and humid air of the region. The 15-minute downhill bike ride took us through the border check and a small kampung until we finally reached the trailhead.

As we began our hike, we were immediately struck by the picturesque paddy fields that surrounded us. The weather was hot and unforgiving, but the lush green fields provided a beautiful contrast. We trudged through the fields, making our way through the dense jungle terrain, and before we knew it, we had been hiking for about 45 minutes.

As we made our final descent, the sound of running water grew louder and louder until we finally caught sight of the Mureh Waterfall. It was a twin waterfall, with the main one being the largest of the two. We couldn't believe our eyes as we approached the base of the waterfall, the water sprinkling all over us as we made our way closer. Despite it being the dry season, the water pressure was still quite strong.

As we reached the base of the waterfall, we were able to take in the true beauty of the place. A big pool sat at the lower tier of the waterfall, but we decided not to hike down and instead appreciate the view from where we were. My friend took out his drone and flew it above the waterfall, showing us the vast basin below. It was a truly breathtaking sight.

As we made our way back, we couldn't help but reflect on the beauty of the place and how lucky we were to have had this opportunity. The laughter and jokes shared among our group made the experience even more memorable, and we were grateful for the guide who accompanied us and showed us the way.

I would like to remind my dear readers to always remember the principle of Leave No Trace. While this hike is an incredibly beautiful and amazing experience, please remember to take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. This is the only way we can ensure that this natural wonder will be around for generations to come.

In conclusion, the Mureh Waterfall hike is an experience that should not be missed. The journey through the paddy fields and jungle terrain, leading to the stunning twin waterfall, is an adventure that will stay with me for a lifetime. For you, that is reading this now, pack your bags, grab your friends, and set out on an adventure to the Mureh Waterfall!

The big River at Kampung Melangkap, Kota Belud, Sabah

Visiting the River near Kampung Melangkap was an incredible experience. Located at the foot of Mount Kinabalu, the river is fed by the mountain's rain and moisture from the soil. When we arrived, the water was flowing at a gentle pace and the weather was not in sunny condition, but it starts to drizzle.

As the day went on, the downpour became heavier and the water in the river began to pick up speed. Eventually, the current became too strong for us to swim, so we took shelter under a canopy and spent the afternoon chatting and eating junk food.

Despite the weather, I was blown away by the beauty of the surroundings. The river is surrounded by lush, green forests and the towering peaks of Mount Kinabalu loom in the distance. There are many homestays in the area, as well as opportunities for camping, making it the perfect destination for tourists looking to get close to nature.

One of the things that struck me most about the big River was how well it was maintained and managed. The facilities were clean and well-maintained, and there was a clear focus on preserving the natural beauty of the area. This made for a truly enjoyable and relaxing visit.

In conclusion, visiting the big River near Kampung Melangkap was a highlight of my trip to Sabah. The combination of the stunning natural surroundings and the well-maintained facilities made for an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to get away from it all and experience the beauty of nature, I highly recommend a visit to the Panataran River.

Kundasang Mesilou 3 Six Peak

 

If I remember correctly, this is the starting point where we paid RM5 per person.

Then, we proceed on the wooden plank walk, with a series of stairs all the way up the ridge.

My brother is enjoying the view in front of him

On the very top of the ridge, there is a viewing platform.

On top of the viewing platform, you get to enjoy a 360 view of the surrounding.

I guess maybe that is why they name this 3 sixty peak 😎🤙

Mesilou 3 Peak is located in the Kundasan Hills in Sabah, Malaysia. It lies on the north coast of the island of Borneo. A superb viewpoint lies at its peak and gives a spectacular 360-degree view of both the ocean and inland forests, hills, mountains and rivers at a height of more than 1,500 meters above sea level.

If you’re thinking of going there, you should do it during the dry season, like from April to September or November to March. The weather is hot and dry.