Templer's Park

Templer’s Park was named after Sir Gerald Templer and was gazetted in the 1950s as a botanical garden and public park; it now covers about 1,214 hectares of lowland rainforest. The reserve was dedicated to serve as a refuge for wildlife and a meeting place for people who appreciate nature.

The park is a compact rainforest area of jungle streams, multi-tiered waterfalls and a network of short trails that drop down from low ridges to stream valleys. Facilities in the park include picnic grounds, parking and basic public amenities, making it a popular day-trip destination from the Klang Valley.

Wildlife is a major draw: birdwatchers and herpetologists have recorded many forest species, and studies confirm a population of serow in the vicinity. The reserve is also scientifically important for cave and snake specimens discovered there, including a rare trapdoor spider in Gua Anak Takun and the type specimen of the snake Xenophidion schaeferi.

The park faces pressure from adjacent housing and road developments, and parts of former parkland have been sold and cleared in recent years, so visitors should expect changes near the reserve’s edges.

• Multi-tiered waterfalls: A series of small waterfalls and cascades along jungle streams form the park’s most photographed spots and are reached by short walking trails.
• Jungle trails: A network of shaded trails descends into stream valleys and offers easy to moderate walks among lowland rainforest vegetation.
• Gua Anak Takun: This cave is noted for its cave fauna, including a rare trapdoor spider species, so approach quietly and avoid disturbing the site.
• Birdwatching and wildlife viewing: The forest hosts a variety of forest birds, lizards and mammals such as the park monkey and serow for those with patience and binoculars.
• Picnic grounds: Simple picnic areas beside streams are convenient for families and day-trippers who want a shaded spot near the water.

The reserve lies just outside the town of Rawang in Gombak District; the nearest major city is Kuala Lumpur, about a 30- to 60-minute drive depending on traffic. The park is accessible from the Rawang exit of the North-South Expressway.

Public access has been described from central Kuala Lumpur by bus (historically the No 66 bus from Puduraya), and the final stretch is commonly covered by local buses, taxis or private car from Rawang; check current local transport options before you travel.

• Trails can be muddy and slippery after rain, so wear sturdy, grippy footwear.
• Bring insect repellent and water, as rainforest conditions favor many biting insects.
• Respect sensitive sites such as caves and avoid disturbing wildlife or removing specimens.
• Facilities are basic - expect picnic grounds and public toilets but limited services, so plan accordingly.