Kelam Cave, known locally as Gua Kelam, is a unique and captivating limestone cave located in Kaki Bukit, Perlis, Malaysia. Its name translates to the “Cave of Darkness,” a fitting description given its dimly lit interior and historical role.
The cave is famous for its 370-meter-long walk-through experience, which features a well-lit wooden suspension bridge connecting Kaki Bukit to the Wan Tangga Valley on the opposite side. Historically, this subterranean passage was crucial; in 1935, it was utilized by British tin miners to transport tin ore from a nearby mine through the underground river system. Remnants of this tin mining era can still be seen inside.
Exploring Gua Kelam offers a fascinating sensory experience: the cool, moist air, the sound of the flowing underground stream, and the sight of ancient stalactites and stalagmites. It is part of the larger Perlis State Park, which preserves the unique karst landscape of the Nakawan Range.
While the main attraction is the caving walk itself, the surrounding recreational park provides areas for picnics and enjoying the lush natural scenery. For many visitors, Kelam Cave provides a unique blend of natural wonder, adventure, and a tangible glimpse into the region’s mining past.
