Gua Tempurung, Gopeng, Perak

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Gua Tempurung, massive limestone cave in Gopeng, Perak

Gua Tempurung is a massive limestone cave near Gopeng in Perak. The name Gua Tempurung literally means "cave of the coconut shell". It is one of the most extensive cave systems in peninsula Malaysia. Located near Gopeng in Perak, Gua Tempurung is accessible from the North South Highway by exiting the Gopeng Interchange approximately 25 kilometres south of Ipoh.

The length of the cave is about one kilometre, and can be covered within one and a half hours return journey, unless many stops are made. A subterranean river runs along the cave, presenting a unique challenge to adventurous spelunkers.

An unending flight of staircase takes spelunkers deep into Gua Tempurung
© Timothy Tye using this photo

Different parts of the cave has been given delightfully colourful names. These include Desperate Passage, where active stalactite formations reach down to the stream. The cave was once used by the communist as a hideout between 1950 and 60, and even today, it bears graffiti left by them.

One section of the cave is known as Lee Meng's Hideout, referring to the Communist courier who was reported to have hidden there during the Emergency. Gergasi Cavern is so named for its sheer size. Alam Cavern has a slender stalactite called The Tongkat, while at The Battlefield, you find many fallen stalactities - the largest was named the Fallen Warrior.

Explorers of Gua Tempurung have the option of following the dry tour as well as grand tour, which require walking along the river bed and often in the water. Participants following the grand tour are advised to bring along a change of clothing as well as their own torchlights.