Mureh Twin Waterfalls

It was noon, 1 1/2 hours since we started from out base point at Bangbaku. We've arrived at Kampung Gun and after about 30 minutes of rest; I even got an impromptu massage from our organizer/medic to correct a slight injury sustained during a fall, and some light chat with the local inhabitants of the village, it was once again time to push on to Mureh Waterfalls. Our organizer told us that it wasn't that far from the village and that it was mostly downhill.  

Mr Sim, the organizer, giving me a corrective massage for a shoulder injury

 

True to his words, the trail from that point onwards was relatively easy with trees and shrubbery giving us shade and yes, it was mostly downhill. However, going downhill can be difficult too unless one possess the know-how to navigate the tangent, but given time and persistence (I learned that hiking is a lot about mind power, never to give up no matter what and press on slowly and surely, once will get to the destination) I eventually managed to make my way to the river.  

 

The view on the trail was beautiful. One could see clouds in the distant sky, hovering low above the rainforest and being a city-dweller, the sight is most welcoming. I've never really been into nature before starting hiking, all thanks to a good friend of ours who without any qualms whatsoever, started us on this journey towards a healthier living.

 

Downhill train, taken backwards.

One of the many bamboo bridges we had to cross
 

 

Countless steps, aching thighs and knees, breathtaking views and 3 bamboo bridges later, I could finally hear the sound of running water and I knew then, that I was pretty close to the river. It was as if a weight was lifted off my shoulders, knowing that I've arrived at the destination. It's funny how when one hears running water or just knowing for a fact that one is near the end of the journey, one could actually pick up a lot of motivation from that and with lighter feet and quickened steps, I managed to make my way to the river's edge.

One of the most dangerous parts of hiking to waterfalls is actually when you get to the river. The moss covered rocks and running water can prove to be quite hazardous if you aren't careful with your steps. Slowly, but surely, I made my way to the top of the river where the falls are and gave myself the much needed rest and for the body to cool down a little.

When that was done, all I did was navigate a few more rocks to get to the fall and I must've sat there for what seemed like hours, letting the water from the falls fall onto my tired limbs. This is one of the best parts about hiking to a waterfall. The icy cold water proved to be a huge relief and it helps me gain back the much needed motivation for the hike back later.

Lunch was provided for us by the locals who went with us to the falls. They started a fire and foraged for edible ferns, freshwater fish from the river and a myriad of other dishes including rice that they brought from the village and cook on the spot in bamboo! Everything was delicious; but seriously, let's face it, after a 3 hour hike and sitting in the cold water, nothing would taste bad.

This is jungle living. Bamboo cooked in rice, jungle fare fresh from mother nature's table, leaves for plates and when everything is done, we just have to chuck it away and let it decompose! It was an excellent meal! Everyone was filled to the brink and everyone was happy. Some of us (yours truly) were just happy to get there alive and in one piece!

We took a group photo at the falls with the rest of our guides before leaving. I wish I could thank them all personally and extend my hospitality to them, as they did me when I was visiting their village.

Mureh Waterfalls; it may be far, it may be difficult to get there, it may take a trans-border hike to get there but it was worth it. I strongly recommend everyone to give it a go. For more information, log on to http://www.bombasticborneo.com where the owners of the site are friendly and will help you get your perfect borneo experience!