Jungle trails and falling light: chasing the rainbow at Lembing Waterfall

#summervacay #naturalwonders #visitmalaysia2026 Hidden deep in the heart of Pahang, the journey to Rainbow Waterfall in Sungai Lembing is part thrill, part pilgrimage. We began our day in the soft darkness of early morning—by 5:30am, our local guide whisked us from our homestay for a kampung-style breakfast, before the adventure truly began. The 4x4 ride through uneven jungle paths wasn’t for the faint of heart—bumpy, muddy, and occasionally sideways—but every jolt brought us closer to something rare. After the ride, we trekked 1.2km into the forest, crossing a shallow river barefoot (or in RM5 rental shoes), and climbing gently for about 45 minutes. For someone not built for jungle trekking—I was sore for days—but the reward? Beyond worth it. Just as the sun crested the hills, the Rainbow Waterfall came alive. Mist from the cascade caught the early light, painting arcs of color into the air. Visit during November to February for the best chance at seeing the full-circle rainbow surround you. We lingered for an hour, mesmerized and soaked, the thundering falls washing away fatigue and city thoughts. On weekends, don’t miss the local delights—mee Lembing, roast pork, and tau fu fa—but on weekdays, expect quieter trails and fewer open eateries. Insider tip: Bring your own water shoes, pack light, and trust the guide—ours hiked in Pallas slippers and still outpaced everyone. This isn’t just a waterfall. It’s an experience shaped by effort, nature, and the pure joy of chasing light through the forest.