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Another interesting spot is the former SUK (State Secretariat) house (1926), used to be the home of Malaysia’s second Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak bin Hussein when he was the state secretary. This is also where the current Malaysian Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Mohammad Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, was born. Today, the house has been transformed into a gallery that features the background of the head of the government along with Pahang culture and history. Travellers who wish to participate in the guided Kuala Lipis Heritage Trail may contact Mr. Abdul Ghani (Kuala Lipis Tourism Officer) at +6 019 9494 700. When it comes to lodging, travellers to the area may consider staying at the award-winning Homestay Sungai Pasu. The major aspect of this experience is the chance to live like a local, which comes with homely accommodation and amazing home-cooked dining opportunities. It is also an inexpensive way to travel as travellers only need to pay around RM50-RM70 per person per night for a roof over their heads and meals. There are various activities available here like Javanese cooking demonstration, rubber-tapping, craft-making, visiting the aboriginal village, picnicking and witnessing cultural shows. Contact Puan Sumi for more details at sumi_ngahdimi@yahoo.com or call her at +6 019 314 8978. Finally, end your journey in Pahang with an adventure trip to Kenong Rimba Park, featuring more than 20 unspoilt caves that come with their own unique formations and interesting legends. Some caves were said to have been used as escape routes for Mat Kilau and Dato’ Bahaman when they escaped to the neighbouring state. It takes about an hour’s ride on a four-wheel drive to reach Kesong camp where visitors may opt to stay in tents or chalets based on their liking. Only a few wonders of Kenong Rimba Park are open to the public such as Gua Buta, Gua Harimau and Gua Hijau, each with its own charm. My favourite is the challenging Gua Buta, named after the pitch black darkness inside its chambers. It features outstandingly beautiful and strange cave formations made up of glittering minerals that sparkle like brilliant gems when illuminated. Do take note that permit from the Kuala Lipis District Forest Office is required prior to entering the park. Therefore, it might be more convenient for interested travellers to book their trip through tour operators such as Tuah Travel & Tours (+6 09 312 2292) that will arrange the permit, find you a qualified and registered guide, transfers, meals, accommodation and activities (caving, bird watching, kayaking, etc.). Expect to pay around RM300 to RM350 per person for a twonight adventure in the park. Also, a maximum of three nights stay policy is in order here for each visitor. Words of advice: do wear light hiking shoes and non-bulky clothes, as well as bring torchlight since there is no lighting, no handrails and no walkways when exploring the caves. Also, be mindful that cave exploration is a strenuous activity that requires a certain level of fitness.
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