Welcome to Air Hitam forest reserve.
It is no secret Puchong folks have been trekking the Air Hitam forest reserve trails for some time now. At around 3000 acres, the reserve is a surprise survivor of green lung encompassed by rapidly ongoing development of Bandar Kinrara, Pusat Bandar Puchong, Equine Park and a few other developments.
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| Green lung in Puchong surrounded by developments |
The Air Hitam forest reserve belongs to the Selangor Forestry Department, leased to University of Putra (UPM) for research purpose. There had been some altercations between hikers and UPM officers who were trying to prevent hikers from entering the forest reserve before, but that matter had been resolved.
Now hikers are free to trek the trails without any worries even though there are still Selangor Forestry Department signs warning hikers to stay away.
The Selangor Forestry Department does not interfere with hiker activities as long as they stay within the trails, without damaging the surrounding, and keeping the forest the way it is.
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| Warning sign from Selangor Forestry Department |
The beginning of the trail is at Jalan Bukit, Pusat Bandar Puchong, not far away from Wawasan Park in Pusat Bandar Puchong.
From BK3, it is only around 5 to 7 km away depending on which road you take.
There are plenty of car park spaces around but don't be surprise it is packed during the weekends, especially in the mornings and evenings, as trekking activity is gaining popularity.
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| Map from BK3 to the start of trail |
From the snap shot of Google earth aerial view below, the beginning of the trail is just right next to a few shop lots. The trail then gradually winding up the hill and slowly disappearing into the lush green forest.
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| Google earth view of the trail |
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| Trail entrance |
Once inside the forest, the hikers can choose to take the trail that goes one loop, which will take about 1 hour or more. Alternatively, the more popular and less strenuous route is just trek up to one of the peaks and turn back, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
The trails are just moderately tough (quite similar to Gasing Hill), suitable for people of all ages. Anyone in reasonably good health will have no problem handling the walk.
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| Part of the trail |
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| Small stream with crystal clear water |
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| Great view of Puchong skyline from the trail |
Every morning and evening plenty of nature lovers are enjoying the hiking activities in the forest. It is a great way to do some exercise, meet like-minded people, and enjoy perhaps the last piece of untouched forest in Puchong.
The best thing is, it is only a few minutes drive away from BK 3.
It is a great alternative for BK3 residents who frequently walk up to the BK3 water reservoir in the morning, who are looking for something slightly more challenging.
At the same time getting in touch with nature.
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