A day trip to the forest research institute malaysia (FRIM), Kuala Lumpur – a terrifying jungle walk
I could feel my legs shaking. I was absolutely terrified. Made worse by the schoolgirls at the other end who were looking at me in a slightly bemused way as I chanted loudly, “One foot in front of the other, one foot in front of the other.”
We were 30 metres up, surrounded by the green, jungly canopy, with long twisting trunks stretching far below. The walkway rocked slightly from side to side as we crossed the wooden planks of the canopy walk at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia, just outside Kuala Lumpur.
👩💻 About the author – Nichola is a family travel expert and has written for The Guardian, The Telegraph, Lonely Planet Magazine and Wanderlust, amongst many others. She’s spent over a decade travelling the world with her children, finding the best places for you to explore too.
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Table of Contents
Introduction to the jungle walk at the Forest Research Institute, kuala Lumpur
“Tree canopy walk”. I didn’t even think about what that really meant when I organised the excursion.
It simply sounded like a brilliant opportunity to see the natural landscape of this part of Malaysia – and something the children would enjoy.
But now, high up in the treetops, I just wanted to get down.
Getting to the jungle walk at FRIM
We took a taxi to the Forest Research Institute and then walked for about an hour up the rocky hillside. We clambered over woody tentacles that twisted and climbed around the trail. Huge leaves shaded us from the blazing sun above, but the humidity made all of us sweat.
Still, we felt like explorers. The further we walked, the deeper into the jungle we went.
The canopy walk experience – Forest Research Institute Malaysia
I was relieved when we finally reached the start of the tree canopy walk.
“We’ve made it!” we excitedly called to each other.
And then I spotted it – precariously strung between the trees, high in the sky.
What on earth was I thinking?!
Climbing up the wooden steps to the start, I inched a few steps along the wooden board, gripping the rope-netted sides, thinking I couldn’t go on.
I’ve never liked heights, and I kept questioning why I ever thought this was a good idea.
But I kept walking, sliding my hands along the ropes, feeling every swing of the planks beneath me.
Stopping wasn’t an option. The walk was one-way only, and the rest of the school party was already behind us. Forward was the only direction.
“Just look at your hands and keep walking,” I told myself.
The history and surrounding landscape – Forest Research Institute
The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) was founded in 1929, dedicated to the research, preservation and sustainable management of Malaysia’s rainforest ecosystems.
The forest covers around 600 hectares and includes indigenous fruit trees, rare dipterocarps (towering tropical hardwoods), and countless species of native flora.
Although we didn’t spot any wildlife, macaques and silvered leaf monkeys are often seen in the area. There are also over 180 species of birds recorded here, making it a haven for nature lovers.
I didn’t dare look down, but Mr Globalmouse assured me there were amazing views across the jungle.
My six-year-old was completely in her element, happily chatting the whole way round while I hunched slightly and tried (impossibly) not to fall over the almost shoulder-high sides.
I felt euphoric when it was over.
It was an amazing thing to have done. Even the walk up, with jungle insects chirping around us, was beautiful.
But I probably wouldn’t do it again.
My daughter and three-year-old son, though? They can’t wait to go back.
Top tips for visiting the canopy walk at FRIM, Malaysia
- It’s high. I know, it’s obvious – but really, it is. That said, it’s safe and surprisingly steady, even for children.
- Children need to walk unaided – probably best for ages three and up.
- The full walk (including getting there) takes around two hours, so bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes.
- Book in advance – the walk is popular and often sells out, especially during school holidays or weekends.
- Walks may be cancelled if the Air Pollution Index (API) is too high.
- Admission: around RM10 for adults, RM1 for children.
- If you don’t fancy the canopy walk, the rest of the park is free to explore on foot.
- Combine with a visit to the Batu Caves, just a short drive away.
Frequently asked questions about the Forest Research Institute
Is the FRIM canopy walk suitable for toddlers?
Not really – toddlers under the age of three may struggle with the steep climb and cannot be carried across the canopy walk for safety reasons. From age three and up, children tend to love it.
How do you get to FRIM from Kuala Lumpur?
You can reach FRIM by:
- Taxi or Grab from central Kuala Lumpur (about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic).
- By train: Take the KTM Komuter to Kepong station. FRIM is around 2.5 km from the station, and you can walk or take a short taxi ride.
How long is the canopy walk?
The FRIM canopy walkway is around 150 metres long, suspended up to 30 metres above the forest floor.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes – access is limited to preserve the forest environment, and daily numbers are capped. You can book via FRIM’s official website or by contacting them in advance.
More about the Forest Research Institute Malaysia
FRIM is one of the leading tropical forestry research centres in the world. Its goals are:
- Conserving biodiversity
- Promoting sustainable use of forest resources
- Educating the public about Malaysia’s unique ecosystems
The grounds include:
- An arboretum
- An ethnobotanical garden
- A wetland area
- Traditional Malay houses
- Nature trails and picnic spots
There’s also a small museum and information centre on site.
Other things to do nearby
Batu cave
Just 15–20 minutes away from FRIM, the Batu Caves are one of Malaysia’s most iconic sites. A towering golden statue of Lord Murugan guards the steep flight of 272 steps that lead up into a spectacular limestone cave temple.
It’s a cultural and religious experience unlike any other, and great to combine with a trip to FRIM for a full day of adventure.
Read our full feature all about Batu Caves here.
Kepong Botanical Gardens
If you’d rather stay on flatter ground, Kepong Botanical Gardens, just next to FRIM, are lovely for a more relaxed walk with young children, with boardwalks, water features, and shaded picnic spots.
Desa Park City
This modern, family-friendly suburb near FRIM has restaurants, coffee shops, and a large park with a lake – perfect if you want to unwind after the jungle walk.
Final thoughts on a day trip to the Forest Research Institute
Our visit to the Forest Research Institute Malaysia was unforgettable – both for the adrenaline of the canopy walk and the peaceful beauty of the forest around us.
It was a true jungle adventure – the kind of experience that leaves your heart pounding and your legs a little shaky but gives you a story you’ll tell for years to come.
And if you’re braver than me, you might even look down.
Read more posts from Malaysia –
The best things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids
Our diary of two weeks in Malaysia with kids
Visiting the Borneo rainforest
This sounds very scary – but an amazing thing to do! Well done for doing it, and it’s great that your kids loved it so much.
Wow that’s brave! I’m really not sure if I could do it, but what an experience if you can
What a hero. I wouldn’t have made it half way! *shudder*