Lata Manau is a tall multi-tier waterfall flowing down a wide open rock face. Its cascade drops are stretched over the length of the river with pools at every level. Located on the powerful main river of Sg Kelang, visitors will have to trek a rather long 9km+ distance thru a series of oil palm plantations before crossing the main stream midway to approach the waterfall from the left side of the stream. This waterfall is NOT suitable for beginners and should only be attempted as a group under local orang asli guidance.
Lata Manau
Head to Batu Malim town as the nearest landmark town. (here) From here, take the junction going into Jln Ulu Sungai. Follow the well maintained tarred road all the way to the junction of Kg Sungai Kelang. (here) About 250m in, there is a triple junction. The left most path goes to the Kg Kelang village. Visitors can engage a guide from this village.
The trail description here will be brief as visitors should have a guide to venture deeper into this remote part of the forest. From the village, visitors will pass a valley of oil palm estates located on both sides of the main river. After crossing a metal bridge, visitors will continue on the right side of the stream where a well used trail leads deeper into the jungle. (Image 1.) At roughly midway of the hike, there will be a river crossing @4.02639, 101.63379 to the left side of the main stream. During wet seasons this stream can be rather fast flowing and extra precaution is needed. Continue following the main trail and there will be a smaller tributary stream crossing not too long after. When visitors are getting close to the approximate location of the waterfall, there will be a forked junction. (Image 2.) Take the right path down towards the river. Exit down the slope on the right when the loud roar of the waterfall can be heard and visible in-between the foliage of the jungle.
To exit simply use the same entry trail in the reversed direction.
Image 1.
Image 2. (4.04040, 101.62158)
The view from mid tier of the fall
Exploration Notes & Trivia :
The existence of this waterfall was revealed to us by a local orang asli that we met on the trail during the hike to Lata Chelir Falls. He described a waterfall called Lata Manau which allegedly had a straightforward trail from Kg Kelang village and is quoted to be more impressive than Lata Chelir. With only barebones info provided, the waterfall was successfully found upon the second expedition.
It is unclear if more levels exist upriver (or downriver as well) Loud sounds of crashing waters can be heard but due to time constraints, we did not explore further.
"Rubbish exist when there is an imbalance of those willing to take action."
If you plan to visit this waterfall, do bring a plastic bag along. In the event there is rubbish left by irresponsible individuals, you can contribute and do our part to keep nature's paradise clean. Thank you~
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Nowadays you need a permit for many waterfalls. General information here Present situation for Lata Manau : No information available
Waterfalls can be dangerous ! Always take care about your safety
