Putrajaya - Government Administrative Centre
You can pay 300RM to a tour company to go to this modern city 25km south of KL or you can easily do it privately at a fraction of the cost. Get yourself to Sentral Stesen and purchase your ticket to Putrajaya (9.90RM single fare) from the first ticket counter on the right after you enter. This is the KLIA Transit Link. (Do not confuse this with the KLIA Expres which goes to the International Airport without stopping.) Your train stops only once before you alight at Putrajaya. The train is brilliantly modern, speedy and as smooth as silk. When you arrive, follow the signs to the taxi rank which is below the train line and on the other side. There you will find a counter where cashiers quote you for the deal you want. You pay and are led to a waiting taxi which takes you around Putrajaya with some commentary and all questions answered. It is difficult to convey the absolute luxury of this city, a leader in design and architecture throughout the world. It opened in 1995. You can see the mosque, Prime Minister's Office, Residence and of couse the offices of many other Ministers. There are outstanding parks, gardens and bridges. The taxis cost 30RM per hour and an hour while the minimum is probably just about right. Obviously, you could have your taxi return you after an hour or two to the train station for the ride back to KL. A good idea, though, is to add on a visit to Mines Shopping Centre. This added 23RM to the hourly cost giving a total of 53RM. The centre is built on a disused mine which has filled with water creating an enormous lake. It is somewhat reminiscent of Venice. After you have walked around the shops and enjoyed the airconditioning, you board a boat on the ground floor and for 2RM, you are taken to the first stop which is beside the Serdang railway station. From here a single ticket to KL costs 1.60RM. So all up, two people can do the trip for approximately 80RM.
A visit to Putrajaya is a must if you are in Kuala Lumpur and so easy to do by yourself.
Sunway Shopping Centre
You can get yourself quite easily to this Egyptian themed shopping centre by taking the KTM train from Central to Subang Jaya (1.60RM). At Subang Jaya station, there is a shuttle bus which takes you to the shopping centre for 80 sens in about ten minutes. It's a good idea to note the route number of the bus for the return trip. The drop off and pick up point is right outside the centre's main entrance. Inside, there is a great variety of shops and eating outlets. On the ground floor, there is an ice skating rink and from McDonalds you have a panoramic view of the wave pools etc of the theme park. Well worth a morning or afternoon!
Batu Caves Temples in Kuala Lumpur
Limestone outcropping 15km north of Kuala Lumpur . Reached by 272 steps leading up to one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India , dedicated to god Murugan. Made up of three main caves and a few smaller ones. The Temple cave and other caves features Hindu shrines. There is 42.7 meter (140.09 ft) high, and the world's tallest statue of Murugan at the bottom of the steps. Below the Temple Cave is the Dark Cave, with rock formations, the Ramayana Cave depicts the story of Rama - HALF DAY TRIP or combine with the Genting Highlands for a full day trip
Batu Caves Temples are both in and slightly out of Kuala Lumpur as it is connected to the main mountain range of the Peninsular which runs from Thailand to the borders of Johore the state nearest to Singapore. Why are the temples both in and almost out of Kuala Lumpur is the uniquite feature of the Lord Subramaniam temple which has its base in Jalan Bandar in the heart of Kuala Lumpur with a host of low cost hotels in Petaling Street or China Town as shown on tourisism brochures; the uniqueness of the temple is the golden chariot of Lord Subramaniam which is taken out once a year for a procession to Batu Caves dragged by the devotees who are often in a state of trance and are undergoing flaggelation or some other kind of self sacrifice to purify their bodies and in appreciation for favours granted by invoking the name of Lord Subramaniam as Minister of Works Samy Veloo could testify; after a slow procession through the streets of Kuala Lumpur the golden chariot finally reaches the Vicinity of Batu Caves where the Golden Statue of Lord Subramaniam stands prominently and the devotees pay their respect to the image and visit the caves by climbing the steps to the enterance and do their homage; it is legendary that the cave is linked to Thailand by secret passageways which has so far not been explored by the scientific community because the Lord Subramaniam Temple committee does not approve any attempts to allow explorers to verify this fact.
So enjoy your stay in Kuala Lumpur but don't forget Batu Caves .
Kuala Selangor Fireflies
Kuala Selangor is a sleepy town about 100km from Kuala Lumpur. In the small hamlet of Kampung Kuantan there, you find one of the largest firefly colonies in the world.
The visit usually starts in the afternoon, where you depart KL and take about 90 minutes to travel to Kuala Selangor. On arrival at Kuala Selangor, visit “Kota Melawati” formerly known as “Fort Altingsburg” , the execution block, royal mausoleum and colonial buildings. A bird sanctuary park at the foot of Bukit Melawati is an ideal place for bird watchers to watch migratory birds. Also found are silvered – leaf monkeys, butterflies etc. (you can get a driver for this, or join a tour).
This is usually followed by dinner at the river side. There are many seafood resturants along the river, where shipping boats come in with their day's catch. Watch the sunset having fresh and cheap seafood.
More about the seafood here - Seafood in Kuala Selangor
When it's dark, proceed to Kampung Kuantan.. A boatman will row upstream in a small unmotorised boat (tongkang) in the quiet darkness to witness the blinking trees. This scintillating display of fireflies portrays an image of a flashing Christmas tree. The synchronized, rhythmic flashing is produced by the thousands of fireflies found in the mangrove swamp of Kampung Kuantan. The skilled local oarsmen make this experience a memorable and unforgettable one.
The Kuala Gandah Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary
The Elephant Santuary is located within the bio diversified-rich protected Krau Game Reserve, about 90 minutes drive from KL. It is best done as a day trip that takes you to visit Batu Caves, Berjaya Hill Resorts, Genting Highlands. The Elephant Sactuary is the last of these stops.
This is not a commercial concern, so there are no entrence fees, donations are gladly accepted. There are a number of elephants being nursed here, and visitors can get up close and personel with these elephants. The most happening times start at 1pm, which opens with a documentary, then feeding time 2pm where visitors can help feed them. 230pm elephant rides followed by playing with elephants in the water.
For more information visit this site - Kuala Gandah Info
Sungai Klah Hot Springs
Located about 2 hours North from KL, the Sungai Klah Hot Springs Park is nestled in the serene and lush forest patches, surrounded by hills and clear cold mountain streams and rivers. All 6.5 hectares enjoy the scenic view of well-tended oil palm plantation and durian orchard amidst a haven of tranquility.
The park has a number of pools where visitors can enjoy various activities, including swimming, treatments, egg boiling..etc. Many visitors come to this park so its best to go early.
More information can be found here : Sungai Klah Hot Springs
You can combine this trip with a visit to Gua Tempurung (caving adventure)
Gua Tempurung Cave
Gua Tempurung is a very large cave about 2 hours north of KL, just before the mining town of Ipoh. It is recommended this visit be done together with the Sungei Klah Hot Springs, or done with a overnight stay in Fraser's Hill.
One of the most majestic white marble and limestone towers in Malaysia is the Gunung Tempurung. Concealed within this limestone massif is an intricate system of caves of various dimensions honeycombed inside the limestone hills. These caves are actually a breathtaking gallery of stalagmites and stalactites and other amazing rock formations which are superb speleogical wonders found only in this part of the world.
Depending on your sense of adventure, various guided packages can be arranged. Starting from the 40 mins easy sightseeing tour, suitable for all ages, to the 3 hour caving adventure only for the fit and adventurous, where a guide will lead you deep into the cave, exploring underground streams, rock formations in the dark only lighted by your own touch light. Worh a visit.
More information here - Gua Tempurung Link
Malacca Historical Town
Located about 2 hours south of KL is the city of Malacca. Founded around 1400, the historical port has been occupied by the Siamese, Portugese and Dutch. It was also an important outpost for the Chinese Admiral Zheng He. The town bustles with its rich history. Vistors can visit its many historical sites, and tastes its interesting cuisine that has developed due to its many foreign influences.
The town square has many historical buildings. Its historical street - Jonker Walk boasts of many antique shops and cafes. Malacca is also famous for its food. Must try are the following -
Chicken Rice balls - Chicken rice rolled into golf balls and also the Chendol at Jonker Walk.
To get to Malacca, one needs to catch a bus. There are a number of bus companies servicing this route. Check with your hotel concerige for more information.
Other day or half day trips
The Hop-on-hop-off bus is worth it as a familiarisation of KL and is a long [and interesting] route but does cover most of the tourist sights [with pre-recorded info in English] and good way to spend a day to familiarise yourself with KL along the 22 stops enroute. You need to do the whole circuit to get back to your starting point and the buses run at 15-30min intervals. You buy tickets on the bus on the day. You can buy adult or child tickets to cover 24 (38/17myr) or 48 (65/29myr) hours. The buses run from 8:30am to 8:30pm. It is not cheap compared to pubic transport.Petronas Towers/ Suria KLCC mall / Petrosains Discovery Centre / Kuala Lumpur City Centre park / Petronas Philharmonic Hall / KL Aquarium / KL Exhibition and Conference Centre - you can only get up to the sky bridge on the 41st/42nd floor, but need to get there early (0800) and its closed on Monday, but the view are not that brill', KL Menara has the best views as you are at 94m.
KL Menara is only a few metres shorter than the Petronas, but at it is built on a hill [Bukit Nanas aka pineapple hill] it give fabulous view of KL and the towers. Best to get a taxi as it’s a long walk up that hill. KL Tower is built on a hill you are virtually the same height as the Petronas Towers . You can go when you want and stay as long as you like. Snack bar at the base of the tower. 94m– at the top of Bukit Nanas (Pineapple Hill), a rainforest reserve that you can stroll or have a guided tour for Bird Watching, Jungle Trekking, Jogging Trails, Forest Walk, Camping, Playground, Flora Fauna, or a enjoy thrilling ride through the air at the Flying, right in the heart of the city. Views from the Tower are far superior to those from the Petronas Towers . There is a restaurant which is very average but does offer a revolving view of the city. Reservation for Revolving Restaurant: +603 2145 1833 or e-mail enquiries@serimelayu.com also check out their website for all the information you need http://www.menarakl.com.my/. You only get to the sky bridge at Petronas, and whilst you can say you have been there, there are the queues and can't stay as long as you would like. The option to go just to the viewing deck at KL Menara is also a good morning out, then drinks and a snack when you get back down to the ground.Bukit Bintang shops and 10 mall - Starhill Gallery [very top end shops but nice reasonably priced restaurants], Pavillion [also the best food court of small stalls and restaurants], KL Plaza, Lot 10, ,Sungai Wang/BB Plaza, Plaza Low Yat (IT malls), YTL Plaza, BB Park, Imbi Plaza, Times Square – restaurants and bars / Jalan Alor for street food
Times Square – mall with a theme park – and hotel
Chinatown / Petaling Street / street-night market / street food / Sri Mahamariamman Temple plus other temples / UDA Ocean traditional Chinese shopping mall junction between Jalan Sultan and Jalan Dato H S Lee. (walking distance to Central Market)
Market Square and shophouses along Lebuh Pasar Besar / Shophouses along Jalan Hang Kasturi / Shophouses along Lebuh Ampang (walking distance to Chinatown and Central Market)
Central Market [architectural heritage also doubles as an air-conditioned arts and crafts market and restaurants] / Independence or Merdeka Square / Sultan Abdul building / Royal Selangor Club / St. Mary's Cathedral / Kuala Lumpur Railway Station - Colonial heritage (walking distance to Little India)
Little India - Masjid Jamek Bandaraya / hawkers / Silk and fabric stores / India Street (Jalan Masjid Jamek)
Lake Gardens / National Monument / Orchid & Hibiscus Gardens / Bird-Butterfly / Deer parks / Carcosa Seri Negara – colonial hotel – high tea / Museum of Islamic Arts / National Museum / Masjid Negara [National Mosque] / National Planetarium – INTERESTING DAY OUT
Maju Junction, Sogo, Pertama Complex, Campbell Complex, Lorong Tuanku Abdul Rahman street market [Every Saturday between 5.00 pm -10.00 pm] (walking distance to Little India or Heritage Row)
Coliseum Cafe & Hotel 98 - 100, Jalan Tuanku Abd Rahman – 1920s colonial hotel and restaurant
Chow Kit – Jalan Haji Hussein street market at night is similar to Chinatown / Petaling Street offering fake goods and delicious local food, near the Chow Kit Monorail stop (best visited during the day)
Various malls and shopping centres around the city, the Mall - Jln Putra, City Square - Jln Tun Razak, Plaza Ampang - Jln Tun Razak, Avenue K - Jln Ampang, The Weld – Jln Raja Chulan, Hartamas Shopping Centre - Jln Sri Hartamas, Bangsar Shopping Centre - Jln Maarof
Craft Complex, Jalan Conlay - Malaysian handicrafts and artefacts, exhibition gallery, craft museum, stage, souvenir and crafts shops, craft demonstrations and practical interactive sessions, as well as a restaurant.
Titiswagsa Lake Park / National Theatre / The National Art Gallery
Rumah Penghulu abu Seman, Jalan Stonor – traditional kampong house
Midvalley Mega / The Gardens shopping Malls - TAXI RIDE OR TRAIN FROM KL
1Utama Mall - TAXI RIDE OR TRAIN FROM KL
The Curve Mall - TAXI RIDE OR TRAIN FROM KL
Cameron Highlands – Malaysians oldest hill station, made up of 3 main townships at different elevations, which still retains much of the charm of an English village, fertile cool mountain slopes with tea plantations, butterfly farm, strawberry farms, rose gardens and vegetable gardens, extraordinary flowers you won’t see flourishing elsewhere in Malaysia – colonial, golf, hiking, trekking – FULL DAY TRIP
Genting Highlands – Casinos, car rides, indoor and outdoor theme parks – FULL DAY TRIP
Frasers Hill – colonial-era hill station, golf, hiking – FULL DAY TRIP
FRIM - experiencing the rainforest and back-to-nature experience with four jungle tracks: Keruing Trail, Rover Track, Engkabang Trail and Salleh Trail and a Canopy Walk – HALF DAY TRIP
Shah Alam - Blue Mosque or Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque, has the tallest minarets in the world. Decorative Islamic calligraphy and ethnic Malay design elements. Overlooks the Garden of Islamic Arts – HALF DAY TRIP
Cyberjaya – HALF DAY TRIP
Brickfields – Indian temples– HALF DAY TRIP
Banksar – nightclubs / bars / restaurants / hawkers
Zoo Negara – visit by day or night– HALF DAY TRIP
Sepang International Circuit – famous for the KL F1 Grand Prix [near KLIA] - HALF DAY TRIP
Taman Negara National Park - developed into a famous ecotourism destination in Malaysia. There are several geological and biological attractions and resorts in the park – 2/3/4 DAY TRIP
Templer’s Park – tropical rain forest – FULL DAY TRIP
Port Dickson – FULL DAY TRIP
4 wheel drive to Sungai Pusu – FULL DAY TRIP
Pulau Ketam, or ‘ Crab Island ’- Chinese village on silts – DAY TRIP
Whitewater Rafting at SUNGAI SELANGOR – FULL DAY TRIP
Nature Walk - Sofia Waterfall Kuala Lumpur – FULL DAY TRIP