Broga is situated in a valley surrounded by lush green hills at the edge of the Titiwangsa range and tropical rainforests. One of the neighbouring hills is called Bukit Broga, or Broga Hill, and is unusual in that the top of the hill is devoid of trees, which is uncommon in a tropical rainforest.
Instead the hilltop is covered in lalang, or long grass, which is where it gets its alternative name of Bukit Lalang. At 400m (1312 feet) in height, Broga Hill has become a famous landmark for casual hikers and on weekends you will find people of all ages clambering up the hill. By the way, it is necessary to arrive there earlier so that you can catch the sunrise.
The drive from my place to Broga Hill was about 1 hour and i reached the parking area (at the foot of the hill) at about 4am. The carpark facility has a charge of RM2 per car for every entry.
It was pitch black when we arrived there and there were many other cars there already as well. So we had to carry a torchlight ourselves.
Thankfully, the trail was pretty easy, quite even, gradual slopes, minimal steps. Just like how i remembered the trail, except for one part where everyone slowed down and caused a long queue at the wee hours of the morning. That part was a slope that we had to climb a little but there were ropes for extra support so it was manageable. But it also could be a tiring uphill hike for those lacking in stamina.
Seriously, the hike felt so short, it's nothing bad i guess considering it was expected to be an easy and casual hike. It took about 1 hour only to reach the peak of the first hill, or also known as the 1st viewing point.
The good thing about hiking this part of the trail before sunrise was that i couldn't see the height so i wouldn't think and fear about falling down the slope. The bad thing was that i couldn't see the trail in front so movements were slowed down. Also, i had one hand less because i had to hold the torchlight.
It wasn't even 7am yet when we settled down at the 2nd peak so it was still dark, 1st peak was way too crowded and 2nd peak was supposed to have the best view. After that, we found a spot to sit and rest while we waited for the sunrise. We lingered around the first hill as some of us were sort of tired to continue on to the next hill.
Anyway, after hanging around the 2nd peak with nothing much to do, except chatting and staring at the phone, the sun finally appeared at 7.30am.
After eating our homemade breakfast, we descended downhill at about 8am. It was starting to get warm as the sun was blazing hot.
By the way, the downhill journey was tougher than the uphill one. Taking careful steps down the steep surfaces were somewhat a challenge. It pays to have long legs, I tell you.
Every slow and careful steps you take means controlling your legs muscle, especially the thighs. Don't be surprise if your thigh muscles hurt like mad for the next couple of days!
Anyway, it was a good hike. Good enough to make us sweat. Fun enough to make it memorable. Easy enough to keep us alive and energetic post-hiking. So if you are looking for a casual hike and don't mind the drive to Semenyih, do consider Broga Hill hiking as a weekend morning plan!
However, although it is not a long hike, it pays to be prepared. Wear proper shoes, bring enough water and walking sticks if you have them. If you plan to see the sunrise or sunset, a torchlight would be useful. If it rains, the trail will become muddy, so be prepared to get dirty.
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