2017 Oct. Gunung Pulai. Rainforest Treehouse Overnight Stay.

Overnight stay in a treehouse at Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest in Kulai, a short drive from Singapore approx 40min from JB Checkpoint. Really interesting back to basics experience staying in an aboriginal treehouse built from logs and branches, not planks. Very commendable effort to the people running the place and sharing with guests on environmental issues like deforestation, underground water, and effects of the spread of oil palm plantations. Highly recommended for families with young kids too.

We arrived earlier than the check in time, so we went exploring the hiking trail to the waterfalls, and had lunch at 姑来大树下擂茶 24 Jalan Susur Kulai 5. I must say I have not been a fan of 擂茶 at all and usually frown at it, let alone ordering it for a meal. But after trying this, my view completely changed, maybe I have to now correct myself to say “I am not a fan of 擂茶, in Singapore”. The 擂茶 in JB actually taste very good, great texture and nice combination of flavours, and the yong tau hu literally blew me away. YES, it is that awesome! Especially with the sambal chilli that you have to order separately, but very reasonably priced. The meal was simple but so good, and an intended light lunch ended up being a full heavy one with repeat orders.

The treehouses are spread out in a big wooded compound, and it took a short rugged trek to get to the units, so be prepared and not bring along bulky luggages. We did overhear some guests who were not prepared for such an outdoor experience, making alternative accommodation arrangement at nearby hotel, as the elderly were not able to trek and climb up the treehouse.

This is the small treehouse we stayed in for the 6 of us. There are also 2 bigger units that can accommodate up to 12 people. For those concerned about modern facilities, the tree houses are furnished with simple electrical outlets, mosquito nets, mattresses, blankets & pillows. The bathroom hut is equipped with toilet bowl, basin and shower with water coming from the mountains.

In the evening after a simple communal dinner of vegetable soup and noodles is served, there is an educational sharing on rainforests conservation and efforts. After that, it is time to get back to the treehouse to enjoy the beautiful evening nestled in nature.

The next morning, a simple nasi lemak breakfast was served. We also went on a guided barefooted hike up Gunung Pulai, which was very interesting and informative. After that, clean up, pack up, and end of overnight stay.