MIRI to MULU

Sun 26 August

Departed Miri airport to Mulu National Park on Maswing ATR72 at noon. It’s a 25 minutes flight through cloudy and turbulent condition.

Up from the air, I saw winding rivers snaking through the dense green forest in partly cloudy condition. As we descended lower, there are pockets of houses mainly along the rivers. Many long boats were berthed along the river sides.

Airplane appeared to have made a straight in approach and landed firmly. A short taxi and the plane was parked at apron just adjacent small terminal. Disembarkation was through the aft door and passengers walked straight to the terminal. Baggage’s collection were primitive, I can see baggage handlers removing from aircraft hold into trolley and then towed a short distance and unloaded on to collection area.

 

I took a unmarked village "taxi"to my “hotel”. It was a Longhouse altered and modified with rooms to cater up to 30 guests. This accommodation is called Mulu Village and operated by a couple. The room facilities are bare minimal,  just bed, fan and light. Toilet were shared. There are no aircon, no t.v., no hot water and electricity only available from 6pm to midnight.

 

After checking in, I went to the park headquarter to register as a requirement and booked guided tours for the next 3 days.

There are two food stalls opposite Mulu Village run by locals. I had simple dinner of fried rice.

I have no problem sleeping in this environment. Lying on my bed thinking of the activities over the next few days and hope it is enriching.