Thursday, November 22, 2007

Johor-Gunung Ledang/ Mount Ophir


Gunung Ledang/ Mount Ophir

Shrouded in mysterious legends and folklore, Gunung Ledang continues to charm and intrigue locals and visitors alike. According to the legend of the Princess of Gunung Ledang, the Sultan of Melaka wanted the Princess' hand in marriage and she, not wanting to marry him, demanded that the Sultan present her with seven jars of women's tears, seven trays of mosquitoes' hearts and seven bowls of the sultan's son's blood. After he was unable to meet these impossible requests, she fled to the mountain and continues to live in a hidden cave, to this day.
The mountain is ideal for a lot of outdoor activities with challenging mountain trails, icy waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna, including many species of birds. At the flat summit, which is 1,276m above sea level, a panoramic view of the Straits of Melaka and even the Sumatran coastline can been seen on a clear day. Also, Sagil Waterfall is a popular picnic spot at the base of the mountain.


Key Tips
There is a hiking trail and a rough road leading to the summit. If you make a hike to the summit, you will find an icy waterfall but it is best to arrange for a pick-up from the summit.


How to get there
By RoadFrom the North-South Expressway, the turn-off point is 25km after Ayer Keroh. Head towards Tangkak. Proceed along the pastoral Route 23 for another 6km, past Sagil town, before turning left onto a road in a rubber plantation and go to another 1km. From here, the route to the foot of Gunung Ledang or Mount Ophir should be visible.By Bus or TaxiA bus service is available to Gunung Ledang from Tangkak, about 16km away. Taxis can also be hired from Tangkak.


Who to contact
For more information on Johor Bahru, please contact the Johor Tourist Information Centre (JOTIC) at 607-2242000.


Accommodation Overview
There is a very nice resort at the base of the mountain, as well as budget hotels in the nearby town of Tangkak. Alternatively, there is a lovely campground near the summit.

No comments: