Cameron Highlands

I added Cameron Highlands to my itinerary because it is known for its natural beauty.

On a hike, the first hour was strenuous, straight uphill. Coming down was also tricky as the trail was slippery a steep. Feeling somewhat accomplished toward the end, I was swarmed by biting insects. Although I was covered head to toe and with a hat, I instantly felt the stings. They attacked my head first, which gave an instant rush of heat and pain. As I reactively started waving my arms to get them away, they began to attack my body and face. They were aggressive and relentless. It felt like a Hitckcock movie.

Adrenaline rushed through my body. I ran, and they continued to attack me. Metta chanting didn't help. After about 500 meters, the attack stopped. My head was on fire and in severe pain. Afraid to stop, I kept on going. I had to hike another 30 minutes in extreme pain. I only stopped a few times to cry and wipe my nose.

Once I got to the main road I called a taxi. I considered going to a health clinic. But the bites were not very visible despite the pain.

I came home, took a shower, and took pain reliever and antihistamine. I dabbed hydrocortisone on the dozen or so bites. I fell asleep, still feeling pain on my scalp and arms.

It was bizzare.

I woke this morning and felt better. There is just minor irritation at the bite points, and now they are more visible. Still, I decided to take it easy and enjoy my accommodations.Read more