Sunday, 7 September 2014

Gua Kajang, Lenggong (caves)



Gua Kajang, Lenggong

Gua Kajang is located at a limestone complex at Bukit Kepala Gajah. It is situated at latitude 5° 07.57’ utara and longitude 100° 58.87’ east, 76 meters above sea level. A huge part of the floor cave has been damaged due to guano harvesting activity and some parts of the cave walls have been drawn over with graffiti.

This was the first cave in the country to be excavated in 1917 by Evans, where urn fragments, stone tools; food as well as human bones were uncovered. Further research carried out by UniversitiSains Malaysia found evidence that GuaKajang had been used since 11,000 to 5,000 years ago. This cave may have also been used as living quarters and burial ground by the Paleolithics and Neolithics. A burial site was found with a Paleolithic human frame (GK1) dated 10,820 +/- 60 BP, buried in a fetal position with offerings of food and tools. Further one meter southeast, was found a Neolithic grave (GK 2) dated 7,890 +/- 80 BP, buried elongated position with food deposits, stone tools and earthenware.

This data provided an insight into the oldest earthenware found in the country and the continuation of the Paleolithic era since early Holosen, before the Neolithics arrived (found on the urn). Besides archaeological evidence, GuaKajang is also known for its unique cave formations, tunnels as well as stalactites and stalagmites.

How to get there

By Road

Lenggong is located on Route 76 which links Kuala Kangsar with Baling. To reach it from the North-South Expressway (E1), exit the highway at the Kuala Kangsar Interchange (Exit 143). From there take Route 76 in the direction of Baling. This site is situated at the limestone complex at Bukit Kepala Gajah.

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