Tasik Kenyir, Malaysia’s largest man-made lake, holds more than still waters and forested islets. Tucked deep within its emerald arms are waterfalls—raw, less photographed, and waiting for those who take the trail off-course. If you’re wondering whether these hidden cascades are worth your time, the short answer is yes. Here’s where to go and what to expect.
1. Lasir Waterfall
Access: 30-minute boat ride from Pengkalan Gawi + short jungle trek
Height: Over 500 feet
Lasir isn’t exactly a secret, but the higher tiers beyond the main tourist zone are. Most stop at the main pool, missing the quiet upper levels where the mist cools the air and giant boulders form natural seating. Climb with caution—grip is loose, and signage minimal.
Why visit:
- Natural plunge pools
- Elevated picnic spots
- Less foot traffic at the upper tiers
2. Tembat Waterfall
Access: Road to Empangan Kenyir + jungle trail (~1.5 hours trek)
Vibe: Remote and raw
Tembat feels like it wasn’t meant to be found. Five levels of sharp-flowing falls cut through the forest, with thick roots and moss-draped stones setting the mood. The deeper you go, the fewer voices you hear—just cicadas, water, and wind.
Tips:
- Bring insect repellent
- Best visited with a local guide
- Slippery rocks—wear shoes with grip
3. Saok Waterfall
Access: 15-minute boat ride from Pengkalan Gawi + 10-minute walk
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Saok sits quietly behind a curtain of trees. Unlike Lasir, it doesn’t announce itself. Water cascades into a gentle basin, perfect for a quick dip or a cold rinse after a boat ride. Less dramatic than others, but calm, clean, and photogenic.
Why it’s worth it:
- Short travel time
- Ideal for kids and older visitors
- Natural stone benches for sitting
4. Lata Terap Waterfall
Access: Requires proper trekking gear + boat transfer
Expect: Few visitors, pure isolation
This one’s for those who don’t mind leeches and rough tracks. Reaching Lata Terap feels like a rite of passage—bamboo bridges, shallow crossings, and muddy inclines. But the payoff is wild: clear waters over golden rocks and not a single plastic wrapper in sight.
Essentials:
- Waterproof bags
- Trek with at least one partner
- Leave no trace
5. Petuang Waterfall
Access: Entry through Petuang Jetty + river path
Setting: Hidden behind thick rainforest growth
Petuang is quiet even by Kenyir standards. No boardwalks, no stalls, no maps. The water here flows slow and wide, ideal for wading and washing off sweat. Monkeys chatter above, and hornbills occasionally pass.
Bonus:
- Campsite nearby
- Excellent birdwatching spot
- Streams safe for filtering drinking water
Waterfall Tips for Tasik Kenyir
- Pack light, but carry dry clothes.
- Start early. Rain comes fast and heavy by late afternoon.
- Respect the forest. No littering, no loud music, no shortcuts.
- Local guides know more than GPS. Hire one if you’re uncertain.
Tasik Kenyir isn’t just about the lake—it’s about what hides behind the next bend. These waterfalls don’t post selfies. They don’t need hashtags. They’re just waiting, quietly.