Ying and Niq’s Niche

Sun, 14-Dec-08. We went on an outing to Taman Alam Kinta (Kinta Bird Sanctuary). There is a dramatic change in Kampung Pisang where the new railway station is situated. There is a new bridge after Batu Gajah old town before a SMK Toh Indera Wangsa Ahmad (SMK TIWA) formerly known as Sekolah Menengah Rendah (SMR), and a new road that leads to an intersection to Batu Gajah, Gopeng and Simpang Pulai. This new road by-passes the busy Batu Gajah town center. To get to Taman Alam Kinta, drive from Batu Gajah town toward Tanjung Tualang. At the Kampung Pisang crossroad, turn left after the traffic lights and don’t cross the new bridge. You will cross the smaller old bridge over Kinta River. After crossing the river, turn right into a sandy road. After a 5-10 minute drive, you will see a sign to “Taman Alam Kinta” on the left. After a short bumpy ride, you will reach Taman Alam Kinta. The place is a real gem in the middle of nowhere. There is a vast disused mining pool with flowering water hyacinths. On the opposite bank, there is a big tree bustling with migratory birds perched on top. You can spot some birds among the water hyacinths, and occasionally catch them soaring across the mining pool. There is a tall viewing tower erected for bird watching. Such a pity I was without my 70-300mm lens. However, I managed to capture the beautiful landscape on my 17-70mm lens. You may find some information on tour operators who will take you to the Kinta Bird Sanctuary by 4X4. You really don’t need a 4X4 to get there. I got there in my Grand Livina. Save your money, drive yourself. A sedan can easily take you there. I’m itching to go again with a longer lens…