It took a little bit of effort but I am so glad we went to Batu Caves! It was definitely a unique experience.
Our first attempt to get out to Batu Caves:
Visiting the Batu Caves very nearly didn’t happen for us! We woke up early to catch the first train out there as they are about 40 minutes away. Unfortunately we discovered that the KTM Komuter trains weren’t working that day! We headed back to our hostel for breakfast and to regroup…
Our Second attempt…
We decided to still make the trip so headed outside to get a Grab instead. This cost more but we had a plan and were determined to stick to it!
The Grab driver was great. We heard about his life growing up in KL and his trips spent going out to Batu Caves with his grandfather. I love meeting people and learning about their lives as it gives an insight into the place we are visiting.
Batu Caves:
When we finally got to Batu Caves they were amazing! Unfortunately we were much later than we planned to be and there was already a large crowd but it was still great. They in a limestone mountain which has 3 caves and once you walk up the 272 stairs you enter the first cave.
The temple:
When we finally got to Batu Caves they were amazing! Unfortunately we were much later than we planned to be and there was already a large crowd but it was still great. They in a limestone mountain which has 3 caves and once you walk up the 272 stairs you enter the first cave. There are intricate and colourful buildings throughout the caves and at the bottom. These are really lovely to wander through and to observe the culture. There are temples where you can witness small ceremonies. This temple is considered an important religious landmark by Hindis and pilgrimages take place here.
The stairs!
Recently the stairs were painted bright colours without permission but this has really become a draw card for even more visitors. Inside the main cave there are 2 sections. It really is an incredible sight to see the sheer rock cliffs with plants growing all over and monkeys swinging down through them. It feels like you have walked in to an otherworldly mini forest. The light streams down through small openings as you wander through making it quite a surreal experience.
Out side there are vendors selling flower necklaces that can be offered at the temples for a blessing. There are also many food and souvenir stalls right near the temple.
Check out this itinerary for 2 days in KL!