Few people refer this place as Sungai Chilling Fish Sanctuary even though it is the official name. The more common names used are "Chilling Falls", "Chilling Waterfall" and "Sungai Chilling Waterfall".
It is not surprising though. Hundreds of locals come here during weekends to see the waterfall. Many of those who are on the way on Fraser Hill make a stop here as well.
Chilling Waterfall does not get a lot of attention from foreign tourists. If you are travelling in Malaysia and you wish to visit an offbeat attraction, this will be it.
It is the Selangor State Fisheries Department's responsibility to manage the fish sanctuary. The purpose of the sanctuary is to protect a species of fish called masher (ikan kelah in malay).
Also, the surrounding forest is a gazetted permanent forest reserve. Thus, you must not do anything that may damage the fish sanctuary and its surrounding when you are here.
Visitors need to trek along Chilling River and cross it 6 times to reach the waterfall. The path to the waterfall takes visitors through a lush forest with many flora and fauna to see. It is an easy trek but you can expect fallen trees where you need to lift yourself over them.
The river crossings bring the most fun as the water stays chilly all the time, even during the afternoon. On top of that, there are always large shoals of fish in the water. Watching them pouncing on fish feed will double the excitement. Crossing the river is only challenging if you encounter strong water currents. As long as you have a pair of steady feet and strong balancing, it will be easy.
After 30 to 45 minutes of trekking, the 80 meter waterfall will come into view. From far, it looks like a narrow and straight curtain hanging over the rocks. Yet, the roar the water creates as it smashes the rocks below is like a warning to keep your distance. The most daring thing that most will do is to take a dip or swim in the natural pool it created.
1st waterfall
You can relax and cool yourself down in the refreshing river water. After that, you can take all the time you need to admire the beauty of the waterfall and its surrounding nature.
The waterfall has 3 levels, but based on the website right now, the public can no longer access the 2 upper levels. The Fisheries Department made this decision because the upper falls are prone to accidents. the water currents there are stronger, and getting up there involves a steep climb. Falling from the slope into the second level of the waterfall can be fatal.
Steep climb
2nd waterfall
But don't worry, you can still have lots of fun at the base of the waterfall. Dip your feet into the icy cold water or have a swim with the fishes.
If you are more daring, you can jump off a huge rock near the waterfall into the plunge pool. To do this, make sure you are a good swimmer because the plunge pool is deep. If you are not, make sure there is someone who is a good swimmer around. In case, you cannot find your footing after landing in the water, he or she must be able to pull you out.
Other than hiking to the waterfall, there are plenty of shaded spots around the waterfall where you can chill. Those who brought light food can lay out a mat by the side of the waterfall or the river to have a picnic.
If you like the idea of camping by the river, then you should bring your friends or family members here. Before you do that, make sure you have the permission from the Hulu Selangor District Fisheries Office or the Selangor Fisheried Department.
The campsite is in front of the ticket counter. You can set up your tent in such a way that its entrance gives you a good view of the river. Despite the nice view, make sure your tent is not too close to the river. Flash floods might happen during rainy season. When the water rises, the last thing you want is to have your tent in its way.
At the campsite, you can have a picnic or set up a barbecue. You can also go down to the river to bath or have a swim. Just don't forget that fishing is not allowed.
Opening Hours
Open on fridays, saturdays and sundays.
From 8.00am to 6.00pm
Visitors cannot hike towards the waterfall after 3.00pm. This is because the journey to the waterfall can take up to an hour each way.
Admission Fees
RM1.00 per person, including children.
Camping Fees
The fees to camp within Sungai Chilling Fish Sanctuary is RM4 per tent.
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