The Gunung Mulu National Park is well worth visiting for several reasons. Its flora and fauna are impressive—numerous plants and animals represent several biozones. Its geo formations are stunning—Mulu caves have hosted many expeditions and tourist excursions. Its bats are famous—the park even has a special bat observatory.
There are about 27 species of bats in Mulu, but the most famous are Wrinkle-lipped bats whose colony numbers up to four million. Every evening these fruit bats leave the Deer Cave in search of food. They form circular batches right outside the cave and when all members of the batch arrive, they fly away. This ritual repeats every evening between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. People waiting in the bat observatory get a chance to see only bats flying in the sky—almost reminiscent of a dark flowing river. Those who decide to visit Mulu Caves and stay there till the evening can watch bat circles near the entrance. There is a bat TV in the park in case the weather gets too bad, but if you want to omit rainy season and see bats in real life, you should visit them between March and September.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit the Gunung Mulu National Park to see the Wrinkle-lipped bats?
The period from March to September presents the most favorable time to see the Wrinkle-lipped bats up close in Gunung Mulu National Park due to clear weather conditions. Visitors should plan their travel accordingly, as outside this window, the weather is cloudy, and the bats might not leave the cave as usual. Spending time at the park during the appropriate time presents an opportunity to watch an impressive display of bat life in their natural habitat. Show more
Where can I watch the ritual of the bats leaving the Deer Cave?
Tourists can observe the Wrinkle-lipped bats leave the Deer Cave at the bat observatory in Gunung Mulu National Park. The observatory provides an optimal spot to view the bats leaving the caves due to its clear view of the surroundings. In addition, the tourist spot presents an opportunity to learn more about bats and their remarkable behavior befitted by the stunning natural surroundings at Mulu caves, making it a must-visit destination for bat enthusiasts. Show more
How many species of bats can be found in Gunung Mulu National Park?
The extensive range of biozones in Gunung Mulu National Park alone has approximately 27 documented species of different bat species. Among the well-known species are the Wrinkle-lipped bats, recognized for forming circular batches as they exit the Deer Cave in millions. For bat lovers, the park offers an opportunity to watch the bats during the evening ritual at the bat observatory, with the number in count determining the experience on the day you are visiting. Show more
What unique flora and fauna can be found in Gunung Mulu National Park?
The extraordinary biodiverse area that is Gunung Mulu National Park plays host to a variety of unique flora and fauna. The rafflesia, the world's largest flower, different orchid species, and mosses are some of the notable flora present in the park. Significant fauna inside the park include the orangutan, the slow loris, and the bearded pig, among others. An attraction to the Mulu caves provides the opportunity for a first-hand experience of the exceptional biodiversity and geological formations. Show more
Are there any restrictions or guidelines for watching the bats in Gunung Mulu National Park?
Watching the Wrinkle-lipped bats leave their caves in the evening presents a remarkable experience while visiting Gunung Mulu National Park. However, the park management has established precautions and regulations to protect and preserve the bat habitat. Visitors should keep their camera flash silent and avoid loud noises, which may disrupt the bat behavior, resulting in unfavorable experiences. The park has set guidelines to observe from a distance, and visitors should dress appropriately to combat the outdoor and indoor weather changes. Show more
