Lenggong, town in Hulu Perak, Perak, Malaysia
Lenggong is a small town nestled in a valley in Ulu Perak, surrounded by the Bintang and Titiwangsa mountain ranges. Located about 45 kilometers north of Kuala Kangsar, it has around 22,000 residents and sits in a landscape of green hills and forests.
The Lenggong area has one of the longest records of human presence outside Africa, spanning over 1.83 million years. A meteorite impact shaped the landscape, and tools and bones from various periods reveal how early people lived and migrated through this region.
The name Lenggong refers to a valley in the local language. The town shows how Malay and Chinese communities lived together for many decades, shaping its character through shared commerce, food traditions, and daily interactions that remain visible in shops, markets, and local customs.
Visit during the drier months when trails to caves and waterfalls are easiest to access. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially if exploring caves or hiking to waterfalls, where a local guide can enhance your experience and ensure safe passage.
The most famous discovery here is Perak Man, Southeast Asia's oldest complete skeleton, found in Gua Gunung Runtuh cave. This find is now protected due to past damage from graffiti, making it a significant landmark for understanding how early humans first reached and settled this region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.