The Ulu Muda Forest Reserve is one of the most significant and least visited wilderness areas in Peninsular Malaysia — a vast tract of lowland dipterocarp rainforest that sees a fraction of the visitors who go to Taman Negara or Belum. The forest is home to all five of Peninsular Malaysia's flagship mammals: Asian elephant, Malayan tiger, Sumatran rhinoceros (critically endangered and rarely seen), sun bear, and gaur. Birdlife is outstanding.
Reaching Ulu Muda requires planning and a local guide — access is via boat from the Pedu or Muda reservoirs, and independent travel is difficult. Several operators in nearby Baling and Kuala Nerang run multi-day trips into the forest. Budget at least two nights to make the journey worthwhile. The reward is genuine wilderness with almost no other tourists.