THE LEGEND OF KOTA GELANGGI CAVE
Not to be confused with the lost city of Kota Gelanggi in
Johor , Kota Gelanggi Cave in Pahang is a 150 million year old, cave complex
alive with unique flora, fauna and magnificent rock formations. From the
several hundred caverns, few are accessible and frequented. As with most
ancient spots, Kota Gelanggi Cave is also shrouded in fascinating legends.
The word Kota means city and the peculiar feature of this
intricate network of caves reveals the impression of an old city. Legend has it
that these caves were actually the ruins of an ancient city belonging to forest
elves ( Bunian ), which were turned into stones together with their belongings.
An old man of the house can be seen here sitting on his chair by his oven or
furnace with loaves of bread and his cupboard filled with flour and sugar, all
turned to stone.
Some believe Kota Gelanggi was a hiding place for Puteri
or Princess Bera and Putera or Prince Jelai. When parents from both sides,
particularly Putera Jelai’s father – Maharaja Perba Jelai – Opposed of their
wedding plan, the couple decided to elope, which resulted in a civil war in
Inderapura ( City of Demigods) , an ancient kingdom of Pahang. Others believe
the word Gelanggi is a variant of the Indian empire Kalingga that ruled Kedah
in the early days.
Still, each limestone cavern has its own captivating
tales to tell. Gua Sanding, for example, offers physical proof for its
name.Sanding is a Malay word describing a bride and a groom sitting on the dais
and at the cave’s mouth, there are 2 figures like stones sitting next to each
other. Gua Terang Bulan (Moonlight cave) is one of the most renowned show caves
in the region. At the very end of this cave, even in total darkness, looking
up, and visitors will be able to see a stream of light.
Located 30 kilometres east of Jerantut , Pahang, Kota
Gelanggi Cave offers a spellbinding and exciting adventure experience. Reputed
to be one of the best tropical limestone caverns in the region, visitors from
all around come here to witness the carvens ‘ natural wonders and experience
the awe of the stalagmites and stalactites as well as the spectacular rock
formations. At the entrance of the area is Kota Gelanggi Museum. The area is
opened all year round from 9am to 5pm.
Guided tours to Gua Terang Bulan are also available.
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