Mossy Forest — Attraction in Perak

The Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands consistently receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with visitors highlighting its unique and enchanting atmosphere. Here are some of the key positive aspects frequently mentioned: Mystical and Ethereal Ambiance: Reviewers often describe the Mossy Forest as a truly magical and otherworldly place. The dense mist, low-hanging clouds, and the way sunlight filters through the thick canopy create a mystical and ethereal atmosphere that feels like stepping into a fantasy novel. Words like "enchanting," "surreal," "magical," and "dreamlike" are commonly used to describe the experience. Unique Biodiversity and Lush Vegetation: The forest is praised for its incredible biodiversity and the abundance of unique flora, including various species of moss, ferns, orchids, pitcher plants, and medicinal herbs. Nature lovers and botany enthusiasts are particularly captivated by the dense and varied vegetation that thrives in the cool, moist environment. Excellent for Hiking and Nature Walks: Many reviewers enjoy the hiking trails within the Mossy Forest, particularly the boardwalk path on Gunung Brinchang, which allows for easy exploration of this unique ecosystem. The trails offer opportunities for gentle strolls as well as more challenging hikes, catering to different fitness levels. The experience of walking amidst the moss-covered trees and listening to the sounds of nature is highly valued. Cool and Refreshing Climate: The cool and often misty climate of the Mossy Forest provides a refreshing escape from the heat and humidity of lower altitudes. This adds to the overall pleasantness of the visit. Breathtaking Scenery and Photography Opportunities: The unique landscape of the Mossy Forest offers stunning and dramatic scenery, making it a paradise for photographers. The interplay of light and mist, the textures of the moss-covered trees, and the overall atmosphere provide countless captivating shots. Educational Value: Visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about the unique ecosystem of a cloud forest and the adaptations of the plants and animals that live there. Guided tours often enhance this educational aspect. Relatively Accessible: While located at a higher altitude and sometimes requiring a 4x4 vehicle to reach the very top of Gunung Brinchang, the boardwalk section of the Mossy Forest is generally considered accessible to most visitors. Overall Unforgettable Experience: Many reviewers conclude that visiting the Mossy Forest is an unforgettable and highly recommended experience when in Cameron Highlands, offering a unique and captivating encounter with nature. In summary, the positive reviews of the Mossy Forest consistently highlight its magical atmosphere, unique biodiversity, excellent hiking opportunities, refreshing climate, stunning scenery, and overall unforgettable experience for nature lovers and...

A most beautiful and mysterious forest. The 4X4 Jeep we've hired was the best decision we've made as we weren't sure whether to drive on our own or not. Our local driver - guide was an amazingly knowledgeable guy who could point out all the exotic plants in the forest and more info on everything else. As of Feb 2024, the Mossy Forest entry rates for a local is RM 10/person and RM 30/adult foreigner.

Our driver had also stopped the vehicle to admonish a group of visitors who'd stopped by the side of the trail- picking off the delicate mosses off the side of the mountain. He explained how the mosses will not survive in any other weather outside of the area, plus the immeasurable damage done to the mosses picked.

The board walk trek takes about a quick 1 hour to complete, but might take more if you're a photo-enthusiastic person (like myself). The forest is amazing, mysteriously half shrouded in clouds, earning it's name : Garden in the Clouds.

Here's the not-so-nice bit most first-timers won't know about driving to Mossy Forest :

Unless you're driving a pick-up truck, a 4WD or 4X4, do not use your own vehicle to climb up this treacherous road. A normal car that experiences any problems along the way will have to pay a minimal fee of RM 1k for towing only, not to mention inconveniencing the rest of the visitors on the trail line that could cause a jam that can last hours. One normal van reportedly had 2 tires loosing air, only to find sharp stones embedded into them. We personally saw a sedan went through multiple potholes (nightmare for suspensions) and then skidding on certain parts going up, while holding back all the other 4X4s.

Some of the pot holes (and there are alarmingly many!) are a few inches deep, and about 1 to 5 feet wide. There are also cracks and splits on the path about 3/4 of the way up, with most stretches tilting to the side. The path is also very small, making navigation hard if drivers are not confident in handling a two way traffic on such narrow roads. Some corners and narrow turnings have sharp drops.

Overall, if you can, hire a 4X4 driver to bring you around. Less stress of damaging your own car, and being able to enjoy the whole ride in the local country way.

Important note : Try not to attempt to hike up on your own if possible. The path is dangerous with the vehicles going up and down, plus dangerous drops and slippery roads. Some times it can get so misty and cloudy, you won't be able to see beyond a few feet of you. The locals shared stories of rescue missions which made them weary of hikers. They will not hesitate to admonish you for hiking just to save money out of their experiences.

Hiring the 4x4s are around RM...

I am one of stubborn many that refuse to take jeep car up. My thought was there are mix comments over a long period of people saying they did drive up. (13/06/24)

I did drive up only to reach the 1st blockage. I did not proceed. There were others doing the drive up on the time i did around 2.30pm.

The next day, i booked jeep to go up.

My suggestion to all is that don’t drive up. The road is cemented & narrow. Have some few damage portion. Drivable yes. But hear me out.

Mossy Forest is what you define as “Cloud Forest” type (google the definition) or visit Sg dome Garden Bay. So someone actually build road up to this tier of forest so you can experience without doing the hill climb.

The tourist section (boarded walk) is currently closed for repair work. Apparently some of the handrail is wobbly & is due for repair.

The jeep operation said they appeal & the authority open a separate section (probably just 100metre small loop walk) for guided walk by jeep operators drivers.

So you might be annoyed why we allow this monopoly. The Mossy Forest attraction is actually a very small park on the hill top. The carpark is a small circular probably can accommodate 10-15 jeeps blocking each others. So it not really ideal to have any Will & Harry to drive occupying the space.

Tourism is about experience. You have to see the jeep ride 15 mins (maybe from entry junction) as part of the experience. Bumpy feels & views along the way + drivers sharing session.

Most importantly is the driver/guide actually advices on what to do & not at the forest. To maintain the health of the mossy. No plucking, avoid grabbing & stepping on the moss. (We know some tourists/influencers are weird & will cross barriers for better contents producing).

Is Mossy Forrest worth going. Okok la. Can this Forest accommodate massive locals tourists driving up to Cameron daily? Big NO.

So can visit? Only if you willing to support local tourist operators & see whole package (jeep rides/ guided tour) as part of tourism experience.

Fyi, the hiking part of Mossy Forest also start from this place. Toward Mt Irau 1st & 2nd peak (7km) only day hike from there, go & back. No overnight, must be guided, pay permit & complete & return by 4pm i assume.

If you want better experience visit Mossy Forest. Wait till the board walk section re-open coz i didn’t get to enter. But i assume what you see is similar to the section i visit minus...