Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest – ideal breakaways from city life 

"As an avenue to relieve stress" so said someone about recreational forests in Malaysia. With their aesthetic appeal, cool interiors and chorus of birdsongs, who can deny such a claim?

Penangites on the island and mainland are a lucky lot. Just a few minutes drive from the urban centres and one ends up surrounded by verdant tracts of unspoilt forests, hiking trails, waterfalls and rivers.
The state's Forestry Department must be commended for the efforts in converting otherwise inhospitable and hostile forest grounds into people-friendly parks, without doing major damage to the ecosystem. Three have been built in Penang, one on the island and two on the mainland in Bukit Mertajam and Bukit Panchor. They are ideal places for strolls, picnics, swimming, family get-togethers, nature studies and camping, amongst other recreational activities.

Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest

The Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest is located 8km from Bukit Mertajam town, if you use the Bukit Mertajam-Seberang Perai highway, or 25km from George Town. There are two ways of getting there - by private transportation or by hiring a taxi from Bukit Mertajam town.

Located on higher ground, the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest lies 457 metres above sea level and covers an area of 37 hectares. Despite construction of modern park facilities, local Forestry officials are happy to report that major parts of the forest still retains their original flora, such as the Meranti Seraya and Meranti Rambai Daun.

Some locals refer to Bukit Mertajam as Bukit Ubat (or medicinal hill) because of the therapeutic qualities attributed to it - people with minor ailments actually claim of feeling relieved after a hike. One of the more popular hills on the mainland, the tar road trail to the top is usually packed with people.

Features and facilities in the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest include crystal-clear streams, a soothing waterfall, swimming pool, picnic area, children's playground, viewing platforms where one can catch a glimpse of Kulim, ferns, epiphytes and exotic butterflies, birds and insects. Given all these, it is not surprising and abroad.
Activities and facilities

SWIMMING POOL: The main attraction to both the local and foreign visitors. The pool is filled with cool and refreshing water drawn from the river, while the breathtaking scenery of natural beauty all around makes this the ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.

CAMPING: There is also a camping site located near the river, equipped with several facilities including a cooking place, a campfire site, toilets and water.

JUNGLE TREKKING: For those who yearn for adventure, a jungle trek had been laid down through the forest area. This provides ample opportunities for visitors to observe and learn about the various species of trees while at the same time, to relax mentally and physically.

ACCOMODATION: There are six units of chalets available here. Each unit is equipped with a bathroom.
Prices range from RM30 to RM50 and bookings can be made at the Ranger's office or the Forestry Department, KOMTAR.

PICNICKING: There are many areas available for picknicking in the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest which are also suitable for individuals and families to unwind themselves. Shelters, tables and benches are placed at several locations within the picnic areas for visitors convenience.

TEA SPA: Enjoy steaming cups of various blends of Chinese teas under the cool shade of a tree. Health snacks like herbal eggs are also served.
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For further enquiries, contact:
Pejabat Hutan Negeri
Tingkat 20, Menara KOMTAR
10000 Pulau Pinang
Tel: 604-262 5272, 650 5250
Fax: 604-263 6335
Email: jabatanp@sukpp.gov.my
Pejabat Renjer Hutan Liput Bukit Mertajam
Jalan Kolam Air, Mukim 15, Cherok Tok Kun, 14000 Bukit Mertajam
Tel: 604-539 1743

Penang sight seeing tips | hills, beaches, recreational forest, fish villages, waterfalls