Lenggong Geopark
Lenggong Valley is a special territory where the earth and human history are intertwined. The territory is known for the oldest volcanic eruptions on the ancient continent of Sibumasu during the Ordovician period (480–460 million years ago). The Titiwangsa and Bintang Ranges were formed through the evolution of granite resulting from the collision of the Sibumasu and Indochina continents during the Triassic period (220–200 million years ago). In addition, Lenggong was impacted by a meteorite that caused the destruction of prehistoric human civilisation and surrounding life.
The region is also known for its mega biodiversity of granitic rainforests. Carved by the Perak River flow, the Lenggong Valley has been an ideal place for human habitation for over 1.83 million years ago, with complete evidence of prehistoric human settlement that reinforces its recognition as a World Heritage Site. The history of modern Perak is also closely linked to the society and government that has developed to this day.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The uniqueness and special significance of Lenggong Valley lie in its 49 km² area designated as a World Heritage Site (WHS), which was declared by UNESCO in 2012. Its Outstanding Universal Value is as a location that has been continuously inhabited by humans from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Metal Ages up to the present day.
From Prehistory to UNESCO & Geopark
The timeline of Lenggong Valley's journey from a remote area to global recognition.
16 December 2021 – Lenggong National Geopark
Declared as a National Geopark by integrating geological, archaeological and biodiversity heritage.
30 June 2012 – UNESCO recognition
The Lenggong Valley is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Cultural Heritage category.
Era of Modern Research (1938 – 2000s)
Systematic excavation by local and international researchers. Establishment of the Lenggong Archaeology Gallery.
Late Paleolithic period (11,000 years ago)
The discovery of a complete human skeleton known as Perak Man. It was found in the Runtuh Mountain Cave in 1991.