Malaysia’s Cradle of Civilization and Prehistoric Wonder
Lenggong, located in the northern interior of Perak, is one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites. The town and surrounding Lenggong Valley are home to prehistoric caves, stone tools, and burial sites, most notably the 11,000-year-old Perak Man, the oldest complete human skeleton found in Malaysia.
Formation and Historical Background
- Lenggong is a mukim under Kuala Kangsar District, but due to its global archaeological value, it is recognized independently in tourism and academic circles
- The Lenggong Valley was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2012
- Archaeological discoveries in caves like Gua Gunung Runtuh, Gua Kajang, Gua Teluk Kelawar, and Gua Harimau reveal a rich prehistoric human presence
- The area also has Malay kampungs, traditional crafts, and natural rainforest landscapes
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Area Name | Lenggong (Mukim of Kuala Kangsar) |
| State | Perak |
| Nearest Towns | Lenggong, Lawin, Gerik (to the north) |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Site (since 2012) |
| Coordinates | Approx. 5.0557° N, 100.9760° E |
| Estimated Population | Approx. 20,000 |
Key Archaeological Sites
- Gua Gunung Runtuh – Site of Perak Man discovery (1991)
- Gua Harimau – Site of multiple Neolithic burials
- Gua Teluk Kelawar – Stone tools and burial remains
- Bukit Kepala Gajah – Limestone hill complex with over 30 caves
- Lenggong Archaeological Museum (GALERI ARKEOLOGI LENGGONG) – Displays findings, replicas, and historical context
Government and Conservation Bodies
| Institution / Role | Description |
|---|---|
| Department of National Heritage | Oversees archaeological preservation |
| UNESCO & Jabatan Warisan Negara | Provide global and national protection |
| Perak State Government | Promotes tourism, infrastructure, and culture |
| Local Village Committees (JKKK) | Support rural tourism and heritage projects |
Economy & Livelihood
- Eco and Archaeotourism:
- Guided cave tours, heritage trails, museum visits
- Agriculture:
- Rubber tapping, fruit orchards, freshwater fish farming
- Cottage industries:
- Traditional kuih, songket, woodcraft, local food
- Homestay & Kampung Tourism:
- Rural experiences for international visitors
Education & Institutions
- Government primary and secondary schools
- Community learning centers and nature clubs
- Archaeological research support from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and international institutions
Healthcare
- Klinik Kesihatan Lenggong – public health clinic
- District health services from Kuala Kangsar or Gerik
Transport & Connectivity
- Accessible via Federal Route 76 (Kuala Kangsar to Gerik)
- Approximately 2 hours from Ipoh by road
- Local buses and vans available from nearby towns
Tourism & Attractions
- Lenggong Valley – UNESCO archaeological park
- Gua Gunung Runtuh & Perak Man site
- Tasik Raban – Scenic lake with resorts and kayaking
- Kampung Kota Tampan – Cultural and homestay tourism
- Freshwater fish restaurants, jungle trekking, and river activities
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Strong Malay heritage, with Orang Asli communities nearby
- Signature foods:
- Ikan Pekasam, Patin Masak Tempoyak, Ubi Rebus & Sambal, Kuih Lompang
- Festivals:
- Lenggong Heritage Day, religious celebrations, rural kenduri
Summary
Lenggong is Malaysia’s prehistoric jewel—a living museum of human history surrounded by green valleys and peaceful villages. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the roots of civilization in Southeast Asia while enjoying authentic kampung culture.