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Gunung Ledang/Mount Ophir, Johore
Shrouded in mystical
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 myriad of outdoor activities with challenging
mountain trails, icy waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna, including many
species of birds. At the relatively 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 a refreshing waterfall but it is best to
arrange for a pick-up from the summit.
How to get there
By Road
From 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
proceed another 1km. From here, the route to the foot of Gunung Ledang or
Mount Ophir should be visible.
By Bus or Taxi
A bus service is available to Gunung Ledang from Tangkak, about 16km away.
Taxis can also be hired from Tangkak.
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.
SOURCE: TOURISM MALAYSIA
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