Chandrika GhoshContributed by Trippy Passports
Kuala Lumpur personifies what Malaysia as a country stands for – Truly Asia. The city is an eclectic mix of sights, sounds and tastes, and the numerous skyscrapers lining its horizon only add to its appeal. But for those who care to find out, there’s a lot more to be explored and uncovered beyond the city. If you’re looking for a quick relief from all things concrete and man-made for a change, here are a few places you can head to for a day away from the city. Hop on to a bus or a cab, and get ready to witness a heady mix of culture, nature and architecture!
1. Tête-à-tête with the fireflies at Kuala Selangor
About an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, Firefly Park Resort is a must-visit for all travellers. Kuala Selangor is home to one of the largest fireflies colonies in the world. It is a spectacle that can be witnessed only in the evening when millions of fireflies come out and light up the night. Imagine yourself slowly rowing down the Selangor River while watching the magical fireflies in full bloom in the adjacent forests. This is an experience not to be missed because rarely do you have an opportunity to get up close to these little beauties of nature.
Image credit: Firefly Park Resort
Image credit: Valentina Yachichurova
To heighten your experience, before you head out for the evening boat ride, make sure you refuel yourself with a scrumptious, fresh seafood meal at a local restaurant in Kuala Selangor.
Image credit: Firefly Park Resort
This experience offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and slow down. If it seems like there’s not much to do, consider this as that much-needed break from the city’s monotony and just soak yourself in your natural surroundings.
2. Explore the hilly terrains of Fraser’s Hill
Bukit Fraser or Fraser’s Hill is a small hilly region about 100 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. The best way to get here is either by your private vehicle or by renting a taxi for the day. Originally built as a British colonial resort, Fraser’s Hill still maintains its old charm.
The town centre almost resembles a quaint little English village square, with an iconic clock tower in place. This is also the part of the town which gets the most activity and the best way to experience it is by foot. Walk around the place and admire the scenic vistas while breathing is crisp, fresh air, or find a spot at one of the restaurants to spend a few hours of leisure.
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Fraser’s Hill also offers several hiking trails for the ones looking for some adventure. They are picturesque and allow you to truly connect with nature. As a bonus, expect to find small waterfalls on the way and hundreds of species of birds while you’re at it!
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3. Enjoy a French rendezvous at Bukit Tinggi
If you’re looking for some respite from the city heat, head uphill to this French-style resort in Bukit Tinggi called Colmar Tropicale.
Image credit: stratman²
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A walk through the beautifully designed resort almost feels like you’ve been transported to a small French village, with its cobbled streets and the distinct architecture.
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But there’s a lot more you can do here than just strolling around, if you are up for some legwork. Many tourists hike up to the Japanese Village located 3,500 feet above sea level, amidst the lush forest. Inside the village, there’s a spa if your legs need some pampering after all the walking. Otherwise, you could even head to the Tea House for a taste of authentic Japanese tea while you admire the natural abundance around you.
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4. Bask in the tropical sun at Port Dickson
All you beach bums, time to rejoice! Finally a beach-side getaway from Kuala Lumpur. This small town, about 100 kilometres away from the city, is the perfect spot to head to if you’re looking for some sun, sand and sea. Gorge on delicious seafood and spend a lazy day on the popular Blue Lagoon beach, or go for a quick swim for some respite from the heat.
Image credit: Nazir Amin
If you’re keen on engaging in more activities, the hike up to the Cape Rachado lighthouse is great fun! The lighthouse does not allow entry to visitors, but you can hike through the wild jungle trail to reach the hilltop for spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. Totally worth the effort!
5. Encounter history at Melaka
This is last on this list, but it is probably one of the most popular getaway destinations from Kuala Lumpur! Whether you’re looking for a quick day-trip or an extended weekend getaway, Melaka caters to all kinds of travellers.
A beautiful heritage city, located within two hours of driving time from Kuala Lumpur, Melaka is a lovely place to explore, bustling with activity all year round. An erstwhile Portuguese colony, the city has maintained the heavy Portuguese influence in its culture and architecture.
The most famous attraction of this small town is undoubtedly Jonker Street. The Jonker Walk is famous for its lively night markets and the myriads of shops selling everything from handicrafts to snacks.
Image credit: Jonathan Lin
Once you are done taking a leisurely stroll on this street, either head to the nearby beach or take a look at a few historic sites. The A’Famosa Fort and the Christ Church are the two most popular tourist attractions in this town.
Image credit: Brian Jeffery Beggerly
If all this walking makes you hungry, and we bet it will, find a cute little restaurant or cafe to stop by and taste the lip-smacking Nyonya cuisine – a fine blend of the Chinese and Malay styles of cooking, unique to this part of the country.
Malaysia is a vibrant and diverse nation. There’s something on offer for everyone here, whether you like to hike or whether you like to sit back and relax on the beach. If you’re spending a few days in Kuala Lumpur, take a day or two out of your fast-paced itinerary and take off to one of these destinations just outside the city. We promise you, they offer much more than what meets the eye at first glance!
