Review Author: Chua Zhi Ming

Review Date: 13 Oct 2020

Review Body:

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Susan C

Review Date: 21 Aug 2019

Review Body: This was one of the most memorable accommodations that we stayed at in Malaysia. The property is about 15km away from Ringlet and has a number of traditional-style buildings in jungle garden settings. We stayed in a bamboo hut in the local Orang Asli style but with electricity and running water. There is no wifi. For three people we had the four person (two mattresses together on the floor) with en suite. The mattresses were protected by mosquito netting. There was a ceiling fan though I found the mosquito net muted its effect. The bathroom area is large but there is no shower enclosure. Shower spray and runoff can wet everything so it is best not to leave clothes, etc on the floor. Note that the shower requires turn on at switch, move dial and lift lever. There were towels, flip flops, coat hangers, clothes storage, tables and charging spots. Nearby, in a communal building, was a kitchen area with a fridge and freezer compartment where we stored the drinks and food we had brought in our car. There was an outside table area with a fan where we ate and enjoyed games at night. We were welcomed with a cup of Boh tea. There was a water dispenser on the table. Breakfast was included and delivered to this outside area. We also arranged a native dinner when we booked as they require notice the day before and we were only staying one night. It was quite filling and we couldn't finish all of it. Make sure the outside rubbish bin lid is on tight as there are night-time raiders. We were able to be outside playing card games till quite late and weren’t bothered by mosquitos - a combination of the fan, some smoke deterrent deployed around the buildings and preemptive slathering of mosquito repellent which may or may not have been necessary but I would always recommend. There was a hammock to relax in. There was great communication right from the start when making the booking, where to meet and dinner arrangements (which you pay cash for and was our only extra charge). When we arrived at Ringlet we called (helpful to have a working phone for this), expecting a half hour delay but they could have been to where we were in 5 minutes but we asked for some time to look at Ringlet. They met us promptly and we were guided to our destination. The staff were very helpful and friendly, showing us to our house, offering tea, positioning the fan, delivering food and giving demonstrations. There was car parking available and then a shortish walk to the accommodation. People with limited mobility may have difficulty with slopes and steps. There are a number of picnic tables located around the property where you can sit and relax in the quiet. We enjoyed the pool in the stream with the bamboo pipe showers, the explanation behind the building style, the opportunity to try blow darts at a practice target, the trap demonstration and the clever hand puzzles that had us occupied and frustrated most of the night. As I said, very memorable!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: TravelKater

Review Date: 20 Mar 2018

Review Body: The experience started with Mr. Gee making sure we are being picked up in Ringlet, about 15 km from the Rain Forest Inn. The locations is/was a bit as if you are part of a village community with a warm welcome. The accomodation was in our case a bigger stilt house with room for several guests. Each had space to place luggage and a very nice and tight mosquito net. The bed was very (!) comfortable and we fell asleep almost instantly (soft :-) ). Toilet and a normal shower are outside. Besides, one can shower in the natural pool or waterfall or shower behind the accomodation. There's a common place which is covered and lit all night. If one is sleepless you can read there or if you feel the need, have a cool beer from the fridge. A really nice Malaysian breakfast is included. In the evening you can opt for a native style dinner which costs a little more but it is worth it. Very tasty and you wont go hungry. Tea/ coffee was offered at each occasion..even though we never tried coffee..tea was too good. Desert was from their own garden..fruit (for example a very sweet pineapple). The night was not cold as expected - and in case one is freezing..there are enough blankets in the accomodation for cameron highland nights) yes, the waterfall could be heard..but that depends on how soft your sleep usually is - it didnt keep us from a good night sleep. We asked on arrival for trekking in the forest. This could be arranged for next day with Miu (one of the local guys working at the inn) and his father. Mu-in guided us into the Cameron Highlands forest which starts behind the accomodation on the way to his village. He showed us jungle medicine (for men and women) and next to, a jungle version of tabacco and also a plant which produces a soap style foam when rubbed with water. He cut for us a special bamboo which contains drinkable water. For the jungle walk, take long trousers..mosquito spray and plenty of water. John, the second owner demonstrated how to use the blow pipe to hunt. The villagers were very welcoming and including the tiny guarding cat..gave us the feeling of "we dont want to go". Mr Gee and Mu-in helped us with our drop off in Tanah Rata. Upon entering town I already wished to go back to the Rainforest Inn

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Luminita Olteanu

Review Date: 21 Mar 2018

Review Body: This stay was for me the true Cameron Highlands experience. Sleeping in the middle of the nature in the stilt house, you hear and feel the forest. The garden, the river and the waterfall, with all kinds of colorfull butterflies flying are a blessed place. The owners Mr Gee and John were around to tell us about this project which not only shows a bit the traditions of the local community ( Orang Asli) but also employs some of them and returns the funds to them. It felt like we were staying in a very welcoming family. We were lucky and got one of the guys (Mo-in, I hope my spelling is close) working at the estate as a guide for a jungle walk. He simply walked us through the forest, the way he would go to his village. He was cutting the overgrown path open for us since this is not the regularly jungle trail. He showed us herbs, wild vegetables we would have for dinner, a "soap" plant which really makes soap-like foam when rubbed in the water and the bamboo which accumulates drink water, even the place where his family had built their house many years ago. Its an experience for life. The local dinner was really special with vegetables I had never eaten before and bamboo rice. The breakfast( included ) was delicious, one day we got the Malay version with Nasi Lemak and next day Indian breakfast with Roti Canai and several dips. You have electricity, warm water for shower and actually super comfy matresses( you dont sleep on the floor). I could do without these for the beauty of the place and its people. Actually I got really curious when John told us "this is not the real jungle". To reach his village you walk 10 km through the jungle. There people have no electricity. Back in Tanah Rata, the pollution and all the program activities going on just make me not find my place. And hope to return to the Rainforest Inn soon.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Junkerfamily

Review Date: 09 Oct 2019

Review Body: Go to the Rainforest Inn if you're looking for a something different, Don't go if you're looking for 5 star luxury. The service was as good if not better than some of the 5 star hotels we have stayed in, but the accommodations are a bit roughing it. The staff were excellent from the minute that I first contacted them until they waved us goodby as we drove off. Our sleeping quarters was a 2 room bamboo hut with mattresses on the floor an attached bathroom with shower. The bathroom was clean, the beds were very comfortable and listening to the river flowing by was very relaxing as you laid inside your mosquito netted beds. I looked inside another hut without an attached bath and shower but it still looked fine if you were a bit more adventerous than us. Don't miss the dinner at night, the food was authentic and delicious. At RM35/person, it is a very good price for such a feast. Gee Tat spent time telling us about all the plants around the place and did an interesting blow pipe demonstration. His staff were very helpful at all times, even brought tea and coffee to our hut. We had our 91 year old father who walks with a cane. This wasn't the best place for him and definitily not the place for someone who is not able to get around well without any extensive assistance. There are steps, steep but concreted paths and a bamboo bridge. He still enjoyed it but it was a bit difficult getting him to the dinner hut and he missed out on some of the talks about the plants. Definitily will return if we have more visitors to Malaysia who like a bit of adventure.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Two_Tankertonians

Review Date: 20 Apr 2019

Review Body: Heritage hotels like Rain Forest are run by owners and staff who are proud of what they've created and how they deliver their service to their guests. When we asked questions, we felt that they wanted us to be happy. Rain Forest. We were very, very happy. Gee runs this place hands-on, and with a passion. He met us in Ringlet and we followed him to the hotel. Great idea. The lane to the hotel would be easily missed due to absence of landmarks near its entrance. That' s the beauty of the place - it's in the middle of nowhere. In our raised hut made almost entirely of bamboo with 'ventilated' walls and floor we experienced Old Malaya. Gee explained how the original inhabitants hunted, including traps and blowpipe and his staff demonstrated. How our meals would be cooked, the old way. On our last day Gee walked us around showing us the plants and bushes and what they're used for. The leaf like sandpaper used for cleaning and smoothing wood or the leaf that foams up and works as soap. Fascinating. A little warning: It's built on the side of a valley, which means sloping pathways. I'm 71 and managed OK but some less sprightly people, especially Europeans like me who are used to step-free access, might struggle. I don't criticise Rain Forest; you can't have an authentic Malay village experience with lifts and escalators. But it might reduce disappointment and possible complaint if the terrain was described as having slopes and steps. (If it is, then I apologise, Gee, for missing it)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jonathan

Review Date: 24 Feb 2020

Review Body: Lovely grounds that are truly in nature. There's a waterfall that runs all the way down one side of the place with rapids as well as a couple of pools you can go sit in. Absolutely stunning. Also, it's not as cold here as in Tanah Rata since it's considerably lower so no worries about swimming or freezing at night in the rather porous rooms. It feels more like a forest experience than just renting a room as the staff are super friendly (but not overbearing), up for a chat and giving done information about the forest and surroundings, as well as a blowpipe and demonstration of native traps. Don't miss the local/native dinner, quite unique but also delicious. Finally, for a place where most things are made by hand out of bamboo, it's surprisingly comfortable. It's clean, the mosquito nets are in good shape and the mattresses fine, the bathroom isn't disgusting, plenty of hammocks and a big covered dining area. Heck, there's even a self-serve beer fridge. It's no hotel room, but not really roughing it either considering how off the grid you are. The one thing I would warn people about is that if you're on one side of the larger building with several rooms in it, you're quite close to the waterfall which could be trouble if you're a light sleeper or don't find the sound relaxing (as I did). Oh yeah...no Wi-Fi unless you hike 10 minutes up the hill. But is that really a negative?

Review rating: 5

Review Author: alessiafrigerio

Review Date: 08 Sep 2019

Review Body: We stayed at Rainforest Inn last August and I can say with all my heart that this place is wonderful and all the words on earth could not describe how magical this place is. If you are looking for a fancy, modern and industrial hotel, this is not the right place for you. If you are looking for a little peace of heaven, where you can experience the real jungle feeling and where you can learn something special and unforgettable about natives, this is the right place for you! Gee and the staff are so welcoming and passionate about the stunning place they have built. We had such a wonderful time learning more about native traps, typical games and we had the MOST amazing dinner of our entire life (and we are half Italians, I truly think so!). I suggest everyone to book the typical native dinner. It comes with fish, sweet potatoes, rise cooked in bamboo leaves, pumpkin, meat, local herbs, pineapple and much more. All cooked by natives before our arrival. The village is stunning, in the middle of the jungle where the only ‘’noise’’ you hear is the waterfall close by. I’d love to hear that ‘’noise’’ all nights :-) Our room was just perfect, with a small window. I’d love to go back one day because this place has completely stole our hearts :-) See you soon, Alessia and Alessandro

Review rating: 5

Review Author: RafBenN

Review Date: 07 Jul 2019

Review Body: Loved this place. Stayed with our 2 kids ages 6 and 9. It is more like "glamping" (glamorous camping) than an inn. You stay in thatched bamboo huts, which have electricity and are clean and comfortable. The huts sit near a river and waterfall. They can prepare a great traditional dinner where everything is cooked on a wood fire. Even the rice. The location on google maps is 1 km from the place, and there are deliberately no signs on the road to prevent too many tourists stumbling upon it. When you arrive you need to call or SMS them to find you and show you the way. You must have a car, all the places to visit are spread out and up to 60 mins drive. The driving is easy, the roads are good. Ask the hosts for information, they will organise tours for you, make recommendations. Also ask them what times to go, Cameron highlands is very popular and there can be traffic at peak times. There is a rock pool we only discovered on day 2 a minute up from the lower bathing area. When were were there, they were building a new hut. It didn't disturb us at all, but there were building materials scattered around which they need to tidy up.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jackie P

Review Date: 20 Dec 2018

Review Body: It's all about embracing nature in comfort... glamping the native way! The bamboo huts are exceptionally clean and each unit comes with an outdoor dining area. Also, clean attached bathroom with water heater - watch out for bugs though, they're all over the bathroom. Also included, hairdryer & electric kettle. Activities include trekking (weather permitting), dipping in a cool waterfalla swee pool, blow pipe - demo & try, human interaction - no Wi-Fi /cellular signal and best of all, immersing yourself in what the rainforest has to offer - sight, sound & scent! We had dinner catered, very generous servings. We felt bad for not being able to finish the food but glad when we learned that the leftovers would be brought back home by the natives. Meal highlight was chicken, tapioca & watercress soup boiled in bamboo...yums! Local breakfast was yums... Nasi lemak & fried noodles! And our family of 12 had the privilege of being taken care of by Gee Tatt (part owner) and Muin. Gee Tatt is very obliging and friendliest person ever! Exceptional service and friendliness from you and your staff, Gee Tatt! We look forward to future stays!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Michelle S

Review Date: 07 Jan 2019

Review Body: What a gem! My 8 year old said this was his favorite thing we did on our 2 week trip to Malaysia but as adult I would also say this was a highlight. Coming from KL and Langkawi we stayed at some pretty nice places (Le Meridian and Westin) but wanted a more authentic experience and the opportunity to learn more about the Malay people. Within 3 hours of check in we learned how to use blow pipes to shoot darts, learned about native animal traps (we have many slow mo videos of this!) , did a 1 hour rainforest hike and then relaxed in hammocks by a stream. Gee was a fantastic host and everyone at the Inn was helpful and friendly. The native dinner was excellent and we loved taking showers in the "outdoor shower" in the steam (we had one in the room but loved just being in the steam better). I highly recommend this for families as well as just adults too (I would have been just as happy staying her sans kids!)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: madsbenson

Review Date: 14 Jul 2019

Review Body: A fabulous homestay away from the tourists and traffic. We spent three days relaxing and exploring the property and waterfalls. We ate all our meals on the property because the food is some of the best we had during our time in Malaysia. We stayed in the longhouse in a private room with shared bathroom which was clean and comfortable. During our entire three-night stay we only left the property once to explore on the scooters. This is not a fancy place, it is an authentic glamping experience in original bamboo and ratan huts. It is spotlessly clean, comfortable (our bed was amazing!), and owned and managed by people who truly care that you have a wonderful time with them. Gee Tatt and Muin went above and beyond to make our stay fabulous. We were sad to leave and will never forget our amazing stay here.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Rod_NBTBM

Review Date: 19 Apr 2018

Review Body: Outstanding scenery, service and wonderful experience. My only regret is staying just one night. A bit off the beaten track, but an absolute oasis which justifies the windy journey after leaving the main highway. Staff were so friendly. My son left his phone in the hut and the owner drove 20km to meet is in Ringlet to hand back! Learning about native blow pipes and hunting traps fun and interesting and purchased a pipe for just 70 MYR. All profits are put back into the local community. Hiking tours can be arranged, but I understand they are fairly tough going and not suitable in flip flops! so didn't manage a hike this time. The river showers were refreshing and fun if you dare to take the plunge! Couldn't fault this place, but don't expect the Hyatt!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Min'n'Liz Chan'n'Lew

Review Date: 14 Oct 2019

Review Body: It’s a wonderful native hut to chill and be with Mother Nature. Our family spent 2 lovely nights here. Our sleep lullaby by the water sound & insect sound. Morning greeted with birds chirping and water sound. Our caretaker, is very accommodating in being our breakfast and dinner to us so we do not have to walk up as we had my elderly mom with us. And thanks to PIC, Ong Gee Tatt for going all the way out to get us a cake for our kids birthday! Both Gee Tatt & Muin are very friendly, shared a lot of information about the orang asli living, plants etc. The waterfall water is so clear and chilling cold, so rejuvenating. Kids had a memorable and educational holiday. Thank you both for their great hospitality.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Andrea

Review Date: 31 Dec 2019

Review Body: Everything was superb!You get the real feel of the forest and yet surrounded by luxury.The place is super clean, there is a waterfall where you can take a bath,many hammocks and chilling areas.The native food is tasty and you can watch how the people from the community make it.You can also learn a lot from the indigenous people.5 min away is a local village and school. The owners can also arrange different tours for you. Be aware that it is quite far from Tanah Rata.If you go by bus, stop at Tanah Rata and organise with the owner to pick you up(45 min drive) or go to Ringlet and from there it is 15 min drive.Again ask the owner to pick you up.The owners are super nice.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Aik

Review Date: 24 Apr 2018

Review Body: The room is basic, but it is really special to experience Orang Asli houses. Modern toilets are built separately and clean. The environment is top notch. If you like nature and outdoor, this is a must stay place in Cameron. The stream and small waterfall are beautiful and kids love it. The native dinner is interesting and must try. The owner and staff is really friend. The sumpit (blowpipe weaspon) and all the traps used by Orang Asli are really an eye opener. We stayed one night at Rain Forest Inn and another night in a four star hotel at Brinchang. I would say Rain Forest Inn should get a five star comparatively. :) Going to stay here longer next time.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jitka

Review Date: 12 Nov 2019

Review Body: I was very surprised by the location. Is hidden outside of the main streets in the jungle. Everything was super nice and very cosy. I felt like coming home. The native village and people who lived there were so kind. Very good atmosphere, relaxing and chilling. I dont think there was something I did not like. There is lots of bugs, which I used as good opportunity to check them, however some people find it difficult to deal with. First night I was alone as only guest but I went to bed early so no problem. And then I have companions for the remaining nights. It is different and people need to have open mind. There is nothing negative.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Stanley Lim Huay

Review Date: 02 Apr 2018

Review Body: Very friendly and sincere host. This place is a excellent place to relax and get away from the hectic city life. Experience the daily life of the Orang Asli tribe. They are one of the last jungle tribes remaining in Malaysian. There are no TV or any distraction that can spoilt your peaceful mind. This place is very clean so do not worry. There is heater for bathing and there are abundance of spring water for drinking. Remember to order the traditional tribe food for dinner. Its delicious and worth the try. Every morning the tribe leader will demonstrate the use of animal traps and how they hunt using darts. Enjoy your stay.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Kristoffel

Review Date: 31 Jan 2020

Review Body: Top location, right in the forest; very quiet, good night sleep with only the noise of nature and a waterfall, delicious food (I recommend the native dinner and local breakfast); dining area near the waterfall, welcoming people, good communication. I would definitely stay at least two nights. You can even bring your own food, they have a fridge and kitchen that you can use. Free coffee and tea. Comfortable bed with mosquito protection. You can even refresh yourself in the waterfall. There’s almost no internet connection, but this was not at all bothering us. Sometimes it’s good to be disconnected.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: David Spence

Review Date: 17 Dec 2017

Review Body: The Rainforest Inn is special. There’s lots of reasons for this. It’s location is next to a spectacular mountain stream. It’s facilities are a fusion of clean/practical modern conveniences and locally crafted authentic accommodation. It’s food is truly Malaysian. It’s also served with pride and panache! What makes this place really special though is the authentic and sincere way John, it’s creator, Gee Tatt, his partner, and both of their families immerse you in the amazing culture of the Orang Asli that they are so proudly & ably trying to sustain and educate us in.

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Nature immersion experience with tours, pool dip, traditional cooking, meal, and sunset view.

Itinerary Description: 2:15 pm Explore the compounds and surrounding areas. Feel free to request for a short tour around the garden and the common area! 3:00 pm Refresh and relax with a quick dip in the large natural pool with water directed from the nearby waterfall! Adventurous individuals can also choose to do a short trek in the jungle or raft in the large natural pool. 4:00 pm Dinner preparation starts. Watch how the food is traditionally cooked over the firewood! 6:00 pm If you pre-ordered dinner, sit back and enjoy the scrumptious native meal! 7:00 pm Enjoy the beautiful sunset overlooking the cascading waterfall with the beautiful sounds of nature!

Itinerary Day 2

Itinerary Summary: Learn more about the Semai people and experience their way of life!

Itinerary Description: 9:00 am Indulge in some simple local breakfast provided. 10:00 am Follow the owner, Osman, as he shows you how the traps are set up in the jungle for hunting and self-defence purposes. Have your shot at the “sumpit” blowpipe used by the indigenous people to hunt in the jungle! 11:45 am Bid your host goodbye!