Forest Skywalk - FRIM

For those of us in Selangor who appreciate nature and seek unique outdoor experiences, the Forest Skywalk at FRIM (Forest Research Institute Malaysia) is an absolute must-visit. Nestled within the expansive and verdant grounds of the Kepong Botanic Gardens, this captivating attraction allows us to literally walk among the treetops, offering a fresh perspective on Malaysia's rich biodiversity and breathtaking panoramic views.

The Forest Skywalk is not just a walkway; it's an immersive journey into the forest canopy. It's a modern structure built with aluminum and steel, comprising 11 towers and 8 bridges, varying in height from 18 to a dizzying 50 meters, with the highest point of the structure reaching 141 meters above sea level. The total length of the skywalk is 250 meters, providing ample opportunity to take in the serene beauty and fresh air of the forest from an elevated vantage point.

As one customer review aptly describes, "You will need to pay 5 MYR to get in. Cash, QR code, Grab pay will work for it. From there you must walk ten minutes and you will then need to pay 40 MYR for the sky walk. I think it is nice and was cool. Plus you get to walk round the gardens which is nice." This highlights that the experience isn't solely about the skywalk; it's part of a larger, beautiful botanical garden where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst diverse flora before or after their canopy adventure.

The Forest Skywalk stands as a testament to ecotourism, blending adventure with education. Informative signages along the path often highlight various plant and animal species, making it an engaging experience for nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike. It’s a perfect escape from the urban hustle and bustle of Selangor, offering a tranquil environment to reconnect with nature, observe local wildlife, and capture stunning photographs of the forest and even the Kuala Lumpur skyline in the distance, especially from the top of the 50-meter tower.

Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a refreshing outdoor activity, the Forest Skywalk at FRIM promises an unforgettable adventure right here in our own backyard.

The Forest Skywalk is located at Taman Botani Frim, 68100, Selangor, Malaysia. It’s important for locals to note the specific access point, as highlighted by a customer review: "Access is NOT through main FRIM entrance; it is through Kepong Botani." This crucial piece of information ensures a smoother arrival for visitors.

The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) is a well-known landmark in Kepong, bordering Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. For those driving, the location is generally easy to navigate, with ample parking available. The park is situated in a lush, green environment that is easily reachable from various parts of Selangor via well-maintained roads. Parking fees apply, typically RM5 per entry for cars.

For those relying on public transport, while there isn't a direct train station at the immediate entrance of Kepong Botanic Gardens, several options provide access. You can take the KTM Komuter train to Kepong Sentral station, and from there, a short ride-hailing service (like Grab) or a local bus (such as T529) can bring you directly to the FRIM area. Alternatively, ride-hailing services from anywhere in Selangor or Kuala Lumpur offer a convenient door-to-door option, taking approximately 30-45 minutes from the city center depending on traffic.

Once inside Kepong Botanic Gardens, as noted in a review, there is about a "20 min walk from parking to starting point" of the Skywalk. This enjoyable walk through the gardens adds to the overall natural experience. The accessibility for both private and public transport, combined with its renowned status as a natural attraction, makes the Forest Skywalk a practical choice for locals in Selangor seeking an outdoor escape.

Services Offered:

• Treetop Walk Experience: The core service is access to the Forest Skywalk itself, providing a unique elevated perspective of the forest canopy.

• 50-meter Observation Tower Access: An additional, higher tower offers even more expansive panoramic views, including the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

• Nature Exploration within Kepong Botanic Gardens: Access to the wider Kepong Botanic Gardens is included, allowing visitors to explore various themed gardens and natural trails.

• Photography Opportunities: The stunning views and unique architecture of the skywalk provide excellent backdrops for photography.

• Guided Tours (Potential): While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews for the skywalk itself, FRIM often offers guided tours for various sections, including educational walks or birdwatching, which might extend to the skywalk area upon request or as part of a package.

• Facilities: On-site facilities typically include toilets and clear signage for navigation.

• Online Booking System: The FRIM website offers an online booking portal for tickets, allowing for quicker and more convenient access.

Features / Highlights:

• Breathtaking Panoramic Views: The most significant highlight is the stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding forest and the distant Kuala Lumpur skyline, visible from the skywalk and particularly from the 50-meter tower.

• Unique Elevated Perspective: Walking among the treetops at heights ranging from 18m to 50m offers a unique and thrilling way to experience the rainforest.

• Modern and Safe Structure: Built with aluminum and steel, enforced with guy wires, the skywalk is designed for safety and stability, providing a confident experience for visitors.

• Integrated with Kepong Botanic Gardens: The Skywalk is part of the larger Kepong Botanic Gardens, allowing visitors to enjoy the diverse plant collections, lakes, and walking trails as part of their visit.

• Educational Value: Informative signages along the walkway often provide details about the local flora and fauna, making it an educational outing.

• Family-Friendly (with age restrictions): While there are age limits for the skywalk (7 years and above) and the 50m tower (13 years and above), the overall FRIM park and the surrounding gardens are family-friendly, making it a good outing for older children and adults.

• Close to Urban Centre: Despite being a natural escape, its location in Kepong, near Batu Caves, makes it relatively accessible for residents of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.

Promotions or Special Offers:

The Forest Skywalk at FRIM offers clear pricing structures and occasional special packages. For locals in Selangor, it's beneficial to be aware of these rates and any potential seasonal offers:

• Tiered Pricing for Malaysians (MyKad Holders): FRIM, as a government research institute, typically offers significantly lower admission fees for Malaysian citizens (MyKad holders) compared to non-citizens. For the Skywalk: Adults (MyKad) RM15, Students (7-17 years old) RM8, Senior Citizens RM10. Additional RM5 for the 50m tower (for MyKad holders).

• FRIM Entrance Fee: There's a separate entry fee to FRIM itself (or Kepong Botanic Gardens access point), which is usually RM1 for Malaysian adults. This is a minimal additional charge.

• Group Bookings: For groups of 10 or more, prior booking through the FRIM Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is compulsory, suggesting potential group rates or streamlined access.

• "Forest Skywalk @ Night" Package: FRIM has introduced special night packages, for example, "Forest Skywalk @ Night," which allows visitors to experience the skywalk after regular hours. This is typically priced per group (e.g., RM300 per group, maximum 20 visitors) and offered on specific days (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) with prior reservation. This provides a unique, premium experience.

• Early Bird or Online Booking: While not explicitly stated as a discount, booking tickets in advance via their online portal (skywalk.frim.gov.my/book.cfm) can ensure quicker access and secured slots, especially for popular times.

Locals are always encouraged to check the official FRIM Forest Skywalk website (skywalk.frim.gov.my) or contact the Visitor Information Centre directly for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices, special events, and any ongoing promotions.

Contact Information:

• Phone: 03-6279 7592 (FRIM Visitor Information Centre)

• Mobile Phone: +60 3-6279 7592

• Address: Taman Botani Frim, 68100, Selangor, Malaysia (Access via Kepong Botanic Gardens entrance for Skywalk)

• Email: frim_enquiry@frim.gov.my (for inquiries and reservations)

These contact details provide a direct line to the Forest Research Institute Malaysia, where locals can inquire about the Forest Skywalk, its operating hours, booking procedures, and any other relevant information to plan their visit effectively.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Forest Skywalk at FRIM is an exceptionally suitable tourist attraction for locals in Selangor for several compelling reasons, offering a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and accessibility right at our doorstep.

Firstly, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the lush Malaysian rainforest from a unique elevated perspective. For urban dwellers in Selangor, this offers a refreshing escape from city life, allowing them to reconnect with nature, breathe in fresh air, and enjoy serene views without needing to travel far. It's a natural remedy for stress and a fantastic way to engage with our local environment.

Secondly, the tiered pricing, with significantly lower rates for MyKad holders, makes it an affordable and attractive option for Malaysian citizens. This commitment to local accessibility encourages frequent visits and positions the Forest Skywalk as a cherished community asset rather than just a tourist trap. The additional option to ascend the 50-meter tower for a small extra fee also provides an enhanced experience that remains budget-friendly.

Furthermore, the integration of the Skywalk within the broader Kepong Botanic Gardens means that a visit is more than just a walk in the sky. Locals can enjoy extensive walking trails, diverse plant collections, and peaceful garden settings, making it a full-day outing for families, friends, or even solo adventurers. The reviews highlighting the "nice gardens" reinforce this holistic experience.

Finally, the "Forest Skywalk @ Night" package, though a premium offering, demonstrates FRIM's innovative approach to providing diverse experiences. For locals, this means the opportunity to revisit a familiar place in a completely new light, offering a magical and exclusive nighttime adventure. In essence, the Forest Skywalk at FRIM is a truly local gem, offering a unique, accessible, and enriching natural experience that perfectly caters to the desires of Selangor's residents for outdoor exploration and well-being.

Forest Skywalk - FRIM

Taman Botani Frim, 68100, Selangor, Malaysia