- Batu Caves - Batu Caves is a limestone hill, which has a series of caves and cave temples, located in Gombak district, 13 kilometres (8 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It takes its name from the Sungai Batu or Batu River, which flows past the hill. Batu Caves is also the name of the nearby village.
Batu Caves is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India, dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is the focal point of Hindu festival of Thaipusam in Malaysia. It is also known as the 10th Caves or Hill for Lord Muruga as it is one of the ten most important shrines in India and Malaysia. The Lord Murugan statue at the foot of Batu Caves is the second tallest Hindu deity statue in the world with a heroic height of 42.7 metres (140 ft.).
The limestone forming Batu Caves is said to be around 400 million years old. Some of the cave entrances were used as shelters by the aboriginal Temuan / Besisi people (a tribe of Orang Asli). As early as 1860, Chinese settlers began excavating guano for fertilising their vegetable patches. However, they became famous only after the limestone hills were recorded by colonial authorities including Daly and Syers as well as American Naturalist, William Hornaday in 1878.
Batu Caves was promoted as a place of worship by K. Thamboosamy Pillai, an Indian trader. He was inspired by the
- Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off
- Air-conditioned vehicle with English-Speaking Driver
- Food and drinks, unless specified
Recognized as a staple tourist visit in Selangor, Batu Caves holds iconic status.
As a significant Hindu temple and shrine, it sees thousands of devotees and travelers flock, particularly during the celebrated Hindu event, Thaipusam.
Situated a short distance north of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is a limestone formation housing three main caves, each featuring temples and Hindu shrines.
The most captivating sight is the towering statue of the Hindu God that greets visitors at the entry, followed by a challenging ascent of 272 steps to reach a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline.
Monkeys playfully inhabit the area, and it has become a favored location for those interested in rock climbing. The Ramayana Cave offers a further draw with its depictions and dioramas of Hindu Gods.
Batu Caves should undoubtedly feature on your must-visit list.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
