‘Magnificent Sarawak’ Gold Winner (Youth) — Darren Wong Qin Hon

Fairy Caves in Bau, Sarawak. Photo by Darren Wong Qin Hon.

By Darren Wong Qin Hon

In the heart of the enigmatic Sarawak lies a geological masterpiece that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike—the Fairy Cave. Tucked away in the serene and remote Bau district, this remarkable cave promises an extraordinary expedition into the mesmerising world of stalagmites, stalactites and captivating limestone formations.

Our journey to the Fairy Cave began on a sun-drenched Sunday morning. My siblings and I, together with our parents, set off from Kuching, with our hearts bubbling with excitement. After an hour-long car ride, we arrived at our destination and were utterly flabbergasted by the crowd at the ticket counter. With boundless anticipation and insatiable curiosity, we embarked on this thrilling new adventure.

Before delving deeper into the cave, we took a moment to watch a concise safety video and learn about the unique features of the cave. Hats off to the Sarawak Forestry Corporation for providing such helpful and comprehensive information for all visitors. Brimming with excitement, we ascended the mossy concrete steps leading to the cave entrance. We stopped and enjoyed the view as we ascended. Even so, I was almost out of breath walking up the seemingly endless steps of stairway. The moment we arrived at the cave mouth, we were instantly greeted by a refreshing gust of wind coming from the cave!

Darren and his family posing for a photo at the Fairy Cave. Photo by Darren Wong Qin Hon.

Venturing forth, we entered a surreal world bathed in celestial light. Sunbeams filtered through crevices in the cave’s ceiling, casting ethereal rays upon us. These radiant beams seemed to dance like fairies upon the glistening limestone. Lush and resplendent greenery adorned the cave’s walls, forming a vibrant tapestry against the stark stone canvas. We quickly snapped a few photographs, with our index fingers pointing at the magnificent opening, wishing to etch this scenic view into our minds forever.

With our headlamps and torches on, and each step deeper into the cave, we unveiled more wonders of the cave. Above us, the stalactites were dangling precariously like crystalline chandeliers while beneath us, the stalagmites rose majestically from the ground, akin to ancient totems guarding this mystical underground realm in solemnity. We could not resist but to offer our visceral commendations to Mother Nature for her awe-inspiring tour de force. The tangible aura of wonder, suffusing the ambience, heightened our admiration.

Part of the trail at Fairy Caves. Photo by Darren Wong Qin Hon.

Descending from the cave, we carried with us the indelible memories of an unforgettable trip. This therapeutic encounter with nature’s beauty has also left us with a lasting sense of tranquility and rejuvenation that would reside in our hearts for years to come. Undoubtedly, we have had a whale of a time. Before we left, we had some green coconuts to quench our thirst at a stall by the roadside. What a refreshing treat in a hot blazing afternoon!

Every time when I reflect on the incredible wonders I had discovered during this exceptional excursion, my heart longs to return to the Cave once more. — DayakDaily

DayakDaily received 153 submissions, with 106 entries under the Adult Category and the remaining 47 under the Youth Category.

Darren Wong Qin Hon from Chung Hua Middle School No. 1, Kuching is the Gold Winner (Youth Category) in the ‘Magnificent Sarawak: An Unforgettable Trip’ writing competition organised by DayakDaily and supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts and Imperial Hotel Kuching.