Kuala Krai, a small town rich in natural beauty, sits in the north of Malaysia, just south of the Thailand border, where the Galas River flows between dense rainforests. You can spot numerous waterfalls here during the rainy season — Lata Rek, a series of cascading falls, spans well over 300 feet and is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic or just admire the thundering spray. Frequent events and small festivals celebrate Islamic culture, and local museums provide an opportunity to learn more about this region. Night markets selling handmade goods and a wide array of culinary delights offer a unique perspective into the local way of life in Kuala Krai.

February may be the ideal time to visit Kuala Krai, as it offers clear weather, the least amount of rainfall, and a comparatively relaxed climate for sightseeing and outdoor recreation. This is also the perfect time to go for a river cruise, as your views of riverbanks and villages are unlikely to be obscured by clouds or rain. Visit between June and September to experience Kuala Krai’s cultural and culinary offerings, when the town is at its busiest and hosts several cultural programs, food stalls, and musical events.

If you’re hoping to observe Lata Rek at its prime, visit between October and November, when it rains heavily in Kuala Krai. The waterfall dries up in summer and fall and there is less to see.

Waterfalls

While the town is best known for the incredible Lata Rek, Kuala Krai and its surrounding areas are home to several other waterfalls, especially around the rainy season. Lata Berangin is a huge set of falls in a secluded area about 30 minutes’ drive from the town that can only be reached by a narrow, unmarked road. The waterfall is visible from the parking area, however, so once you’ve parked Lata Berangin is easily accessible.

Gunung Stong State Park

Gunung State Park is a massive nature reserve just over an hour outside of Kuala Krai. The 54,000 acre park is home to numerous caves, waterfalls, and at least seven peaks that you can climb. Although you’re unlikely to see them, tigers, elephants, gibbons, and hornbills all live in the park — but you may be lucky enough to spot the enormous Rafflesia, also known as the corpse flower because of its aroma of rotting flesh.

Kuala Krai—Dabong River Cruise

The Kuala Krai—Dabong River Cruise is a two-hour boat journey along the Sungai Galas, which links the towns of Kuala Krai and Dabong. You’ll sail through the dense rainforest and float past small villages, with ample opportunities to observe the animals and plants that inhabit the riverbanks.