Length: 6.5km
Elevation: 248m
Difficulty: 3.5/5
Permit: RM2 entry fee
As our beloved country Malaysia celebrated its 68th birthday, we at Capy Crew laced up our hiking boots and ventured into the green haven of Kota Damansara Community Forest Reserve. Nestled on the fringe of Petaling Jaya, this reserve is one of the Klang Valley’s last remaining lowland dipterocarp forests.
Entry fee
Please note that there is a RM2 entry fee that needs to be paid at the entrance. The proceeds go directly towards the conservation of the forest, a small price for helping protect such a precious green lung. A huge shoutout to the Kota Damansara Community Forest Society for the awesome work they do to preserve, maintain, and expand access to this urban jungle.
How to get there
The entrance is accessible by car. Parking by the roadside is available including and up to the roundabout. Public transport is not recommended here as even the nearest MRT station would require a lengthy walk from MRT Kota Damansara.
The hike
After paying the entry fee, we kicked off our hike with a gentle incline that warmed up the legs. The trails at Kota Damansara are well maintained and dotted with clear signboards, making navigation easy even for first-timers. Almost immediately, we were welcomed by the sounds of the forest. Birdsong echoing through the trees, leaves rustling in the breeze, and the occasional monkey darting across the canopy above.
The first half of the hike was smooth and straightforward, but the tail end brought some fun challenges for those craving adventure. Flat footpaths soon gave way to steep inclines, with ropes on hand to help with the climb. Even our resident hiking aficionado and Capy Crew co-founder, Wen Chong, was left catching his breath.
The sweat was well worth it as the cityscape views from the peak easily rivalled some of the best we’ve experienced on our hikes so far. Definitely one we will be revisiting in the future!
Post-Hike Recharge
After a little over two hours on the trail, we decided to reward ourselves with some brunch. Luckily, The Nasi Lemak Shop was just a short drive away, serving the best nasi lemak in the Klang Valley — according to me at least. Safe to say, it didn't disappoint!
Final Thoughts
Kota Damansara Community Forest Reserve is more than just an urban green lung. It’s a mix of accessibility, challenge, and reward. From smooth forest paths to rope-assisted climbs, it offers something for both casual hikers and those seeking a tougher workout. Add in sweeping city views at the peak, and it’s easy to see why this trail is quickly becoming one of our favorites.
Capy Crew will definitely be back for more — and if you haven’t explored this reserve yet, consider this your sign to lace up and hit the trails. Till then, keep that adventurous spirit alive! 🐾
