Wondering where to escape the city without really leaving? Welcome to Bukit Gasing. This green lung straddles Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya. Imagine being surrounded by lush greenery and breathing fresh air. Bukit Gasing offers that escape.
Bukit Gasing Forest Reserve spans 100 hectares. It divides Petaling Jaya from Kuala Lumpur. This was once a rubber estate. Now, nature has reclaimed it. It is now a secondary forest. It even has some pretty large trees.
For those living nearby, Bukit Gasing is very popular. People come here to stretch their legs. They want to get their lungs and heart working. Many also want to sweat off extra weight.
There are many hiking trails in Bukit Gasing park. They suit all levels of energy and fitness. The highest point in the park is about 160 meters. That makes it a baby hill. But there are steep slopes. One is even called the Abu Baker Slope. It is a good place to train for more challenging peaks.
In 2023, the entrance, pathway, and signage were refurbished. There are many forks in the path. Sticking to the main path is a good idea. It will help you cover most corners of the park.
Hikers often share snippets of conversation. They care about their health. They also care about the environment. Hikers are good people.
From a clearing on the KL side, a shimmering expanse can be seen. It might look like a lake. It is actually concrete shimmering in the mist. Development appears to be encroaching. The Petaling Jaya side is a protected area. The KL side is not. Hopefully, the authorities will conserve the park. It is better than just thinking of development potential.
Remember to bring your own water. There are no shops or toilets here. Also, beware of heavy-duty mosquitoes. Industrial-strength bug repellent is a must. Long sleeves and trousers are a good idea too.
Many people walk their dogs here. It is one of the few places to do so legally in KL. Dogs should be kept on a leash. There are monkeys here.
Bukit Gasing feels like hiking in a real forest. The trails are maintained by frequent passage. Otherwise, they are left to nature. Unlike some trails, these don’t really “go” anywhere. It is more of a rambling forest.
The terrain is varied. The trails are sometimes steep and sometimes even. They can even descend into creek beds. The air can be very humid.
There isn’t really a peak for Gasing Hill. But there is a reasonable view from one of the high-ground points. It may not be about conquering a vantage point. Bukit Gasing is about enjoying nature. It is about escaping the city’s hustle. It offers a refreshing experience for everyone.