Arrival in Limbang: A Prelude to Adventure

The moment I touched down at Limbang Airport, I could feel the pulse of adventure coursing through my veins. The air was thick with anticipation as I met my guide and fellow thrill-seekers, all of us eager to embark on the Gunung Buda Adventure. Our first stop was the Purnama Hotel, a cozy haven where we would rest before diving into the wild.

The Limbang Prelude Tour was a perfect appetizer for the adrenaline feast that awaited us. We explored the Limbang Museum, a treasure trove of local history, and paid our respects at the Limbang Raid Memorial. The Tasik Bukit Mas Garden offered a serene contrast to the mud volcano’s bubbling chaos. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we found ourselves in a quaint border town, indulging in cheap drinks and local delicacies. It was a night of camaraderie and stories, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.

Into the Heart of Gunung Buda

The next morning, the call of the wild was impossible to ignore. After a hearty breakfast, we set off in a rugged 4WD, bouncing along the path to Kuala Mendalam. The journey was a thrilling prelude to the trek that lay ahead. As we reached the 36km trekking point, the real adventure began. The trail to Buda Base Camp was a tapestry of sights and sounds, each step bringing us closer to the heart of the jungle.

The trek was a test of endurance, but the reward was worth every drop of sweat. We arrived at the base camp, a sanctuary nestled amidst the towering limestone cliffs. After a quick tea break, we plunged into the Medalam River for tubing, the cool water a refreshing balm after the day’s exertions. As the sun set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we dined on Pansoh chicken and fish, cooked in traditional Sarawak style. The evening was filled with tales of the native Tabun migration, a rich tapestry of history woven into the very fabric of the land.

Caving and the Call of the Wild

The third day dawned with the promise of subterranean wonders. After breakfast, we ventured into Turtle Cave, a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that beckoned us to explore. Cave tubing was an exhilarating experience, the underground river carrying us through the heart of the mountain. The upper Turtle Cave offered a more challenging adventure, with its narrow passages and hidden secrets.

The return journey was no less thrilling, as we navigated the secret underwater Buda river cave, a hidden gem that few have the privilege to see. Back at the base camp, we shared stories of our discoveries over dinner, the camaraderie of shared adventure binding us together. As the stars twinkled above, I felt a deep connection to this wild, untamed land, a place where the spirit of adventure thrives.

Back to Civilization

As our journey drew to a close, we packed our bags with a sense of accomplishment and a touch of reluctance. The trek back to Kuala Medalam was a reflective one, the memories of our adventure etched into our minds. A final lunch at Kuala Medalam was a chance to savor the local flavors one last time before heading back to Limbang town.

The day ended with a taste of Limbang’s famous rojak, a delightful mix of flavors that mirrored the diverse experiences of our journey. As I settled into my hotel room, I reflected on the past five days, a whirlwind of adventure and discovery. The Gunung Buda National Park had delivered on its promise of thrills and excitement, a testament to the untamed beauty of Limbang.

Farewell to Limbang

The final morning was bittersweet, a farewell to the friends and experiences that had made this journey unforgettable. As I boarded my flight, I knew that the spirit of Gunung Buda would stay with me, a reminder of the wild places that still call to the adventurer in us all. Until the next adventure, Limbang.