The Kelabit Highlands is a remote plateau in the northeastern corner of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Situated at an average elevation of 1,100 meters, this isolated region is characterized by cool montane climates, vast rice paddies, and primary rainforests. It is the ancestral home of the Kelabit people, one of Borneo's smallest ethnic groups, whose culture is deeply intertwined with the highlands' unique landscape.
ECOLOGY & BIODIVERSITY
The Highlands' varied topography—ranging from the Bario plains to the summit of Gunung Murud (2,423m)—supports a diverse range of niche habitats, from sub-montane dipterocarp forests to stunted mossy forests.
- Avifauna: A premier birdwatching destination, the highlands host 274 bird species. The altitudinal variation allows for sightings of both upper lowland species and high-altitude montane specialists, including several Bornean endemics.
- Botanical Diversity: The region features specialized flora such as Nepenthes (pitcher plants), wild rhododendrons, and various orchid species adapted to the kerangas and montane forest environments.
- Sustainable Agriculture: The fertile valleys are famous for the cultivation of Bario Rice and mountain salt, processed using traditional methods that have remained unchanged for generations.
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
- The Kelabit People: Known for their hospitality and deep connection to the land. The community lives primarily in longhouses, though modern individual dwellings are increasingly common. The elders are known for traditional tattoos and elongated earlobes, symbols of their cultural heritage.
- Longhouse Settlements: Villages like Bario Asal, Pa Umor, and Pa Lungan serve as cultural hubs where traditional social structures and communal living are still practiced.
TREKKING & EXPLORATION
The Kelabit Highlands offers an extensive network of jungle and village trails suitable for various fitness levels. Note: Guides are highly recommended for all multi-day treks.
- Bario Valley Trails: Short walks connecting longhouse communities like Arur Dalan and Pa Ramapuh, offering views of the paddy fields and surrounding mountain ranges.
- Pa Umor Salt Spring: A trail leading to a traditional salt-making facility where local brine is boiled to produce the famous Bario salt.
- Gunung Murud Expedition: A strenuous 5-6 day return trek to the highest peak in Sarawak, passing through diverse forest types and remote settlements.
- Bario to Ba'kelalan: A multi-day cross-border trek connecting the Kelabit and Lun Bawang highlands, requiring high levels of fitness and navigation skills.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Access: The primary gateway is Bario. Access is via MASwings Twin Otter flights from Miri. Land access is possible via 4WD on logging roads, though journey times are long and subject to weather conditions.
- Best Time to Visit: Accessible year-round, though the wet season (October to February) can make trails difficult and lead to flight cancellations.
- Accommodations: Stays are typically in local guest houses or tribal longhouses, offering an immersive cultural experience with traditional meals.