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| Fraser's Hill |
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Fraser's Hill derives its name from
one of the more colorful characters in colonial history, James Louis Fraser, an adventurer
and fortune hunter. Stories about his life include rumors of an opium and gambling den
managed by him, which was frequented by miners. He vanished later on and his disappearance
remains a mystery to this day.
The hill rises at 1,524 meters
above sea level. Like the ancient city of Rome, it is built on 7 hills, but unlike the
eternal city, it bears no claim to cosmopolitan fame. Instead, it exudes a quiet rustic
air, more in keeping with the solitude of an English countryside.
Cool throughout the year at an average of
18 - 20 degree Celsius, the attraction of Fraser's Hill as a tourist resort has not
diminished through the years. Today, Fraser's Hill is popular as a site for company
retreats and weekends.
The fanatic golfer will find enough
here to occupy his days whereas non-golfers can while away their time horseback riding or
by simply strolling down the picturesque lanes that weave through the green countryside.
The fresh mountain air is cool and invigorating and when dusk falls, the mist that blows
in brings back memories of a simple, gentle era.
Situated approximately 104km from
Kuala Lumpur, there are two alternative routes from KL. The first is via the KL - Karak
Highway, turning off towards Raub and then off again before Raub to arrive at the Gap. The
other, is the scenic old road heading north and then branching off at Kuala Kubu Baru
(KKB) before proceeding to the Gap. (The Gap:- a section of the road up the hill that is
only accessible in one direction at a time. As such the road is only open for an hour to
traffic heading uphill and vice versa through the day.)
 The paddock at Fraser's Hill provides ponies for novices who would like to
experience the pleasures of riding, and horses are provided for the more proficient
riders. This is an ideal way to explore the hill and there are a number of trails that
spiral around the hillside. There is nothing like the feeling of the rocking canter of a
horse beneath you as the cool mountain air whispers past your face.
 Fast becoming a center for bird watching enthusiasts, this hill station is a
bird watcher's haven with over 270 species of local and migratory birds flocking here
together. The annual International Bird Race organized by Malaysian Nature Society in
conjunction with the Fraser's Hill Development Corporation sees participants from all over
the world converging here to determine which team can sight, identify, and record the most
number of birds as stated in the official checklist. This world renown event seeks to
promote Fraser's Hill as a bird sanctuary and encourages bird watching as a healthy
outdoor activity. More
on Bird Watching
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