Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Selangor

Selangor is Malaysia one of the richest and developed state. Since the 16th Century, large tin deposits were found here. The earlier settlers, the Bugis from Macassar had developed and had made Selangor a much prospered State. And even till today, Selangor has the country’s largest industrial operations stretching from KL to Port Klang.


The state capital and royal town of Selangor is Shah Alam, and the nation’s capital, Kuala Lumpur is also situated within it. The state covers an area about 8,000 square kilometers and has a population of about 4 millions. The most recognizable landmark is the KL International Airport (KLIA), a gateway that receives visitors from all over the world.

As a tourist, you can expect to have a lot of nature experiences and you will get to visit some unique architectural buildings in Selangor. And if you love golf, Selangor offers a good variety of golf courses that you can choose from.



GETTING TO SELANGOR

By Air
There are over 40 international airlines offer daily flights from major cities to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) located at Sepang, an hour drive from the town centre. From KLIA, you can also take connecting flights to most major cities and towns in Malaysia as well as to Sabah and Sarawak.
Please take note that the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang, the old international airport caters only domestic air services.


Selangor - Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)


Tel: 03 - 8776 2000


For Reservation:
Malaysia Airlines


Reservation Telephone lines: 1300 - 883000 (24hrs)
Outside Malaysia: 03 -7846 3000 (24hrs)
Kuala Lumpur: 03 - 7846 3000 (24hrs)
HOTLINE: 03 - 2165 5454 (Complaints only)
03 - 2165 5444 (Baggage Claims Unit)
03 - 8776 3556 (Telephone Check - In)



PLACES OF INTEREST IN SELANGOR


Agricultural Park (Taman Pertanian Bukit Cahaya)

Malaysian Agricultural Park , the only agro-forestry park around, is located in Shah Alam and the rain forest spans up to 1290 hectares. The park is unique because

People come here to either explore, or for recreation. One of the many reasons to why the park is visited by many is because of the many activities that are in store for the visitors. Services provided are live demonstrations, cultural exhibits, accommodation, permanent displays and descriptions, and activities for educational purposes.

Families and friends come her to relax, or to enjoy a picnic.

How to get there

Own Transport: From Kuala Lumpur or Klang, take the exit on the Federal Highway to Shah Alam town and follow the road signs to the park.

Operating hours:
Tues thru Sun : 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
( Closed on Mondays, except on public and school holidays)

Taman Pertanian Malaysia
Bukit Cahaya Seri Alam,
40000 Shah Alam,
Selangor, Malaysia.
Tel : (603) - 5510 6922 / 5510 6923
Fax: (603) - 5510 0922

Melawati Hill / Bukit Melawati, Kuala Selangor

Melawati Hill is located in the coastal town of Kuala Selangor, a 30-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur. In the late 18th Century, the second Sultan of Selangor had a fortress constructed on Melawati Hill to protect the state from intruders.

The hill provided a vantage point to monitor ships in the Straits of Malacca. Even with a strategic hold, the Melawati Fort yielded to the Dutch cannons.

It was again destroyed during the Selangor Civil War, when warring factions fought for tin-rich lands. All that remains of the fort now are its cannons, its original foundation stones and fabled execution block. The landscaped hill offers a panoramic view of the Selangor coastline.

Visitors will be delighted to watch the free-roaming Silverleaf Monkeys in the area. The adults are dark-haired with a tinge of silver, while the young ones are a bright orange. Gentle and adorable, they graciously wait for bread or fruits from visitors, unlike the mischievous Long Tail Macaques.

Other attractions here are a lighthouse, a royal mausoleum and a quaint rest house.

Batu Caves

Located in a limestone outcropping 15 km north of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Selangor.

This famous destination draws people from all over the world during the annual Hindu festival, Thaipusam. It consists of three big caves, including the main temple-cave which features ornate Hindu shrines.

Scaling the 272 steps leading up to the temple is one of the highlights of a visit to Batu Caves. Nearby is the Ramayana Cave where evocative scenes of Indian epic myths are artistically painted along its walls. This massive limestone hill is also a popular spot for rock climbing.


Carey Island

Northwest of Morib, across the sea from Port Klang, is Pulau Carey (Carey Island). Comprised largely of oil palm estates owned by Golden Hope Plantation, the island is also home to the Mah Meri, an aboriginal tribe renowned for their traditional woodcarvings, depicting their ancestral spirits or 'moyang'.

The tribe has kept the legends of their ancestors alive through these figurines and stories told to any willing listeners.

Visitors wishing to tour the vast oil palm estates on the island must obtain prior permission from the relevant authorities.

Getting There
Drive
from Kuala Lumpur to Teluk Panglima Garang on the Kelang-Banting road. From Teluk Panglima Garang, a narrow road takes you past rustic Malay villages to Pulau Carey. A bridge links the mainland to the island. The entire drive takes approximately 11/2 hours.

Gallery Shah Alam

Visitors who appreciate art or anyone who would just like to look around local handicrafts and fabrics can stop by Gallery Shah Alam before heading to the Shah Alam Lake Gardens. Some of the works made by famous local craftsmen is also available for sale.

Back in 1991, in order to show and promote the many varieties of mediums and forms in Malaysia, the Open Show is held. Many people attended the event, whether to just look around, or participate themselves.

Historic Building, Jugra

Once the seats of ancient kings of the Selangor Sultanate, Jugra is now but a placid town. Even so, the place is worth visiting, as there are many historical buildings here to explore, and one historical building to take note of is none other than the Bandar Palace.

Built in 1905 during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Sulaiman Shah, features creative woodsmanship and beautiful designs. It is said that the designs for the entire building was made by none other than Sultan Alauddin himself. There are 15 rooms in Bandar Palace.


Keris Monument

A silver colored Keris monument stands tall along Federal Highway towards Port Klang, welcoming those just entering Klang town.

The monument was erected to commemorate the silver jubilee of the Sultan of Selangors installation during the Jubli Perak celebration in 1985.

Located just around the corner of the Klang municipal council, this specially designed memorial depicts the Keris Semenanjung which symbolizes power, unity and strength, and as a symbol of power of the Malay royal embassy.


Kampung Kuantan Fireflies or "Kelip-kelip"

The firefly colonies of Kampung Kuantan and Kampung Bukit Belimbing are amongst the most popular tourist attractions in Selangor.

You will be amazed at the spectacular light displays from these unique insects - millions of them - which lived on the berembang trees that grow along Kuala Selangor's riverbanks.

Boats can be hired at the Kampung Kuantan jetty for these nocturnal tours. The skilled local oarsmen make this experience a memorable and unforgettable one.

The Firefly Park Resort in Kampung Bukit Belimbing offers visitors an opportunity to view the enchanting display as well as enjoy a night's stay at the available chalets.


Kota Darul Ehsan

Kota Darul Ehsan, one of the most distinguished landmark in Selangor was erected to commemorate the sacrifice of the Sultan of Selangor, who long ago, ceded Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Government.

The beauty of Kota Darul Ehsan lasts even after the sun sets, as bright lights shine and illuminates the royal gold colors and leaves a beautiful effect on the landmark.


Kuala Selangor Nature Park

Kuala Selangor Nature Park
, also known as Taman Alam, is a sanctuary for many different types of flora and fauna. Kuala Selangor Nature Park is situated at the mouth of Selangor River. The lake in the Kuala Selangor Nature Park is manmade, and is controlled via sluice gates.

The Kuala Selangor Nature Park is the home of mangroves (spans up to 800 acres!) and mudflats. Wildlife such as otters, leopard cat, silvered leaf monkey, mudskippers, king crabs and 156 species of birds can be spotted in the park. Nordman Greenshank, one of rarest birds around can be found here as well.

The Mines Wonderland

Built around a former mining-pool, the Mines Wonderland is an exciting theme-park with water sports, amusement rides, a winter-house with snow as well as restaurants and various other facilities. At night, glittering floats parade on the lake while a stunning laser and multimedia presentation entertains and mesmerizes visitors. The Mines Wonderland is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.

Ice Factory
With a temperature of between -10°C to -15°C, this 10,000 sq ft Snow House is the first winter wonderland in Malaysia. Filled with interesting learning facts and fun excitement, this is certainly an amazing experience.

Musical Fountain
The open-air Musical Fountain Theater can accommodate 4,000 spectators at any one time. Incorporating light, musical and water, the “water dance” is a spectacular sight.

Animal Kingdom
There are various kinds of animals scattered around in the park. They are shown in different forms, either lives ones or as statue, some of which are lit. The White Kingdom within the Animal Kingdom houses some of the rare albino species such as the tigers, peacocks and parrots.

Light Fantasy on Water
A lakeside promenade with giant animated aquatic animals decorated with numerous multi-colored lights floats proudly on the lake.

Unity Train
Ever ride on a locomotive train? Catch the fun of going around the theme park on this fabulous ride!

Road Tram
This choo-choo train runs on the road and takes you around the park to observe the park from different angles.

Garden Boat
This birdcage-like boat takes you on a cruise along a 200 meters canal. At the same time, enjoy the carefully formed landscaping with a relaxing ambience.

Inflatable Wonderworld
The bouncy inflatable games suitable for everyone especially the children. Jump as high as you could and try to touch the sky

Mini Golf
Practice your putt among the exquisite life-like animal sculptures on this beautifully landscaped park. The first in Malaysia, the mini golf was created for golfers of all ages

Water Taxi
A unique transportation that takes you on a relaxing cruise around the 150 acres former open cast mining lake.

Vintage Car
Take a drive down the memory lane on your favorite Vintage Car and experienced nostalgic moments of a whimsical era.

Address
MINES Wonderland Sdn Bhd
3rd Floor, MINES Shopping Fair,
Jalan Dulang, MINES Resort City,
43300 Seri Kembangan,
Selangor Darul Ehsan,
Malaysia

Telephone :

603 – 8942 5010

Facsimile :

603 – 8942 5153

Operation Hours: 5pm - 11pm daily

Ticket Rate:
RM32 - Adult
RM21 - Children below 12 years old
RM20 - Senior citizen age 55 years old and above


Morib Beach

If the popular west coast beach resorts are a bit too crowded for you, you might find Morib, located at the southern end of the Selangor state, more appealing.

Approximately 1 1/2 hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur, it is the perfect place for some quiet, peaceful relaxation.

Surrounded by whispering casuarinas and swaying palms, you can comb the beaches of Morib during low tide, searching for seashells or watch small crabs scuttle away and disappear into the sand. You can even spread out a mat and settle down to a picnic lunch beside a shady casuarinas grove.

Those who wish to spend the night can seek accommodation at nearby Hotel Sri Morib.


Getting There
Morib is accessible from Kuala Lumpur by the Federal Highway or the North Klang Valley Expressway via Klang. From Klang, proceed to Banting before reaching Morib.

To reach Morib by bus, you should board a Kuala Lumpur-Banting bus from the Klang Bus Station in Kuala Lumpur. From Banting, take another bus or taxi plying the Morib route.

National Zoo

The Zoo Negara or National Zoo is situated 13 km from the centre of Kuala Lumpur, standing like an oasis amidst a concrete jungle. It was officially opened to the public in 1963.

The zoo features about 400 species of Malaysian and exotic mammals, reptiles and birds. Of these, most are fish and bird and about a hundred are mammals and reptiles. Its aquarium "Tunku Abdul Rahman Aquarium" is a very popular attraction.

It displays over 80 species of aquatic animals, both marine and freshwater, including invertebrates.

Numerous paths wind between wooded groves and tree-lined enclaves where the animal enclosures are located. Among the more exotic exhibits are the Sumatran tiger, orang-utans, and gibbons. All are extremely rare outside of this part of the world.

Reservations for special occasions can be made at 03-41083427

Contact Information:
Zoo Negara Malaysia
Jalan Ulu Kelang
68000 Ampang
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Phone: +60 3 4108 3422
Fax: +60 3 4107 5375


Gombak Orang Asli Centre

For those who wants to see a glimpse of the "orang asli" and their culture and lifestyles can visit their settlement, located in a secondary forest, located along Jalan Gombak. Admittance to the Orang Asli Museum and Craft Shop is free.

Visitors may take the bus at Lebuh Ampang, near the Masjid Jamek LRT stations, and the bus will take you straight towards Genting Highlands right along Jalan Gombak.

There, visitors can see and witness various items made and worn by the orang asli of Selangor. Some of them include jewelry, clothes, masks, porcelain, inventories, ancestral figurines and the house design.
And don't forget to sign their guestbook!

Crab Island / Pulau Ketam

North of Pulau Carey is the island of Pulau Ketam (Crab Island) with its picturesque coastal fishing villages built on stilts.

Pulau Ketam is blessed with bountiful fishing grounds and is popular among the locals for its superb seafood restaurants. It is a great place to savour a variety of seafood specialties, in particular the curry crab. Fishing and bird-watching tours are available.Home stays in a 'kelong house', two or three kilometres offshore, are also available.

Getting There
There are many taxis and buses plying the Kuala Lumpur-Port Klang route. Alternatively, one can also take the KTM commuter train to Port Klang from the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. At the Port Klang jetty, board a ferry to Pulau Ketam. The journey takes about an hour.


Shah Alam Lake Gardens

Shah Alam may be a busy, urban city, there is still a place for people to relax, and that place would be the Shah Alam Lake Gardens.

With a manmade lake in the Shah Alam Lake Gardens, surrounded by vast, landscaped gardens, it is the perfect place to hold events such as the International Boat Show and the Selangor Orchid Exhibition.

If you're hungry, you can always head out to the floating seafood restaurant, and for other recreations head out to Wet World water theme park in this area. Don't forget to stop by at Laman Budaya culture centre as well.


Chongkak River Recreational Forest /
Sungai Chongkak Recreational Forest


Located in Hulu Langat, is the Chongkak River Recreational Forest. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the forest from Kuala Lumpur.

It's worth the long journey though, as visitors will get to explore the wide and vast, beautiful forest, home to many habitats. Looking at the clean, clear waters of Chongkak River, which flows directly from Nuang Mountain, is mesmerizing.

Facilities such as toilets, changing rooms and chalets, as well as picnic and camping zones are available. Entrance fee is free as the maintenance is completely funded by the department.


Sungai Gabai Waterfalls

On the same road to Sungai Chongkak in Hulu Langat district, is the refreshing site of the Sungai Gabai Waterfalls.

The waterfalls offer a picturesque view of several falls which cascade down over 100 meters, culminating in a broad, photogenic plunge into a series of small pools suitable for swimming.

The Sungai Batangsi Waterfalls and Sungai Lalang Recreational Forest are down the same road to Hulu Langat.


State Mosque

Surrounded by the beautiful Shah Alam Lake Gardens, The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque, one of Shah Alam's most famous figure, is one of the symbols highlighting supremacy of the Islam and Muslim sovereignty in Malaysia.

It is also the largest mosque in Malaysia and one of the largest in South East Asia. It was completed in 1988 and officially opened on the 11th of March of the same year. With its large blue and white dome, it is actually one of the biggest domes in the world.


State Monument

The Selangor State Monument, located adjacent to the Selangor State Secretariat building in Shah Alam is a popular spot for wedding photography and a tourist spot. Warrior's Day celebration is held here as well.

On the grey Selangor granite facade is a gold inscription, which adds to the splendor of the Selangor State Monument.

Sunway Lagoon

At SUNWAY LAGOON, you will find a host of added facilities and amenities to enhance your enjoyment. Information counters are located in all three parks to help you make your way around. Swimming apparel, toiletries and other necessities are available at various retail shops. Special lockers are made available so you can have fun without the hassle or worry over the safekeeping of your belongings.


Scream and splash your way into the "Waters of Africa"
Scream and splash your way into the Waters of Africa, the theme park's newest attraction. Dare to take a journey into the African wilderness with new, out-of-this-world thrilling and exciting water rides in Malaysia's only African-themed Water Park.

Outlast and outplay your friends in the Congo Challenge, Malaysia's only headfirst six-lane racer water ride. If that's not enough, brave the heights and speed of the intense Cameroon Climb. The first-in-the world double tube water ride that steeply drops two riders at one time from as high as 15 meters, and shoots them up again to a height of eight meters. Another ride that promises an unforgettable experience will be the gigantic African Pythons. Spin around in loops before being propelled out of gigantic tubes!

At Jeffrey's Bay, surf the waves at raging heights of up to eight feet, in the world's largest man-made surf wave pool, with a spectacular backdrop of Asia's first man-made erupting Volcano! Then, take a journey along the majestic Elephant Walk, where life-sized elephant sculptures guard a magnificent lake.

After a day of hardcore fun and excitement, step into the happening Zulu Walk. Don't be surprised to find a fire-eater around the corner or African tribal dancers welcoming you.
A wild African adventure awaits for those who dare! You have to see it to believe it


WILD WILD WEST
Go back to the old frontier of cowboys and Indians when one enters the Wild Wild West land. Discover authentically-styled facades and totem poles which further enhance the feel of a cowboy town. Find yourselves in the company of roaming Apache Indians and saloon dancing girls, as you stroll along the streets of the Wild Wild West.

Get wet on the exhilarating Niagara Falls Flume Ride or be swirled around the raging waters of the Grand Canyon River Rapids. For the fearless, feel the world going upside down as you experience the 360-degree swings of the Tomahawk.

Not forgetting fun rides for the whole family like the Buffalo Bill Coaster, Apache Pots, Butch Cassidy's Trail and many more. So, take a walk on the wild side and you never know what you may encounter.


WORLD OF ADVENTURE
At the World of Adventure, find endless excitement and thrills. The World's Longest Pedestrian Suspension Bridge, measuring 428m in length, offers a breathtaking view of the whole Lagoon from a dizzying height.

These are among many exhilarating rides and attractions that will guarantee a true adventure experience.

A New Experience in Sunway Lagoon Theme Park - Voodoo Adventure River
Voodoo, or juju, as it is known in West Africa, originated a few hundreds year ago among Yoruba people who live in an area comprising modern-day Togo, Benin, and parts of Nigeria. Followers of voodoo honors the spirit of rivers, they believed that the spirits of the river can protect them.
Be mesmerized on the journey through the dark and mystic waters of a motif common to fairy tales and angelic characters with their inspirational words. This is a journey not to be missed. It is a journey to be remembered, a journey to be cherished.


KALAHARI KIDS
Having always been a theme park capable of supplying the entertainment appropriate to every age group and stand of society, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park does still set height regulations on selected faucets of the park for safety purposes. Thus, it is usually the children of the lower primary school age and below who sit out whilst the bigger kids have all the fun. That is what Kalahari Kids is all about. A place that is constructed to specifically give the younger kids something to really dominate and call their own. Fenced in and set apart from the rest of the park, it is a very safe establishment and the kids can have a really peaceful time playing whatever suits their fancy.


PIRATE'S REVENGE
"Ahoy! Buckos. Hold on your stomachs as you take a spin in Sunway Lagoon's all-new Pirate's Revenge, Malaysia's first and only 360° rotating' pirate ship."

"Scream your hearts and guts out as t' ship swing’s a aft and forth, higher and higher, on t' high seas before finding' yourself suspended upside down 24 meters above sea level!"

"It's an adventure t' remember, and t' first 100 brave souls t' survive t' ride will walk away with a certificate t' prove it."

"So get down smartly t' Sunway Lagoon today."

Operating Hour

Mon - Fri :

11am - 6pm

Tue :

Closed

Sat – Sun:

10am - 6pm

Public/School Holidays :

10am - 6pm


Sunway Pyramid

Sunway Pyramid is a distinctive retail landmark located in the heart of Petaling Jaya. Since its opening in July 1997, it is Malaysia's first themed shopping and entertainment mall. Its investment cost to date stands at RM 450 million with a gross built-up of 2.5 million sq ft.

The mall's most easily recognized design is the Egyptian-inspired Pyramid with an eye-catching lion standing guard at the entrance. The rest of the building is embellished in the monumental style, complete with hieroglyphics decorating facades, along with numerous Pharonic statuaries.


Sunway Pyramid provides a rich variegated merchandising mix, with international and popular local brands. Visitors are in for a unique shopping adventure, all thanks to more than 350 specialty outlets. Be spoilt for choice when you visit our specialty outlets where you will find variety in fashion, accessories, shoes, jewellery, timepieces, music, videos, gifts, souvenirs, leathers, books, pharmacies, electrical products and a one-stop IT center.

Once your shopping is complete, Sunway Pyramid is an amazing place to eat. From intimate cafes serving snacks and pastries to casual dining restaurants, you will find a feast of culinary delights, both authentically Malaysian and from all around the globe. Take your pick at Genki Sushi, Waffles World, Bread Story, Secret Recipe or Auntie Anne's Pretzels for some light healthy treats, for the really hungry, drop by Ichiban Ramen, Laksa Shack or Pizza Hut. As for the gourmet connoisseurs, you will find a feast fit for a king at The Manhattan Fish Market, O’Viet Restaurant, Mantra Restaurant & Bar and Dusit Thai Restaurant. If you are short of time, McDonalds, KFC, A&W, Kenny Rogers Roasters, and Long John Silver's are strategically located around the mall for your convenience.

Sunway Pyramid strives to provide innovativeness and service par excellence to the world. The awards won and accreditations accomplished speak for it. Sunway Pyramid won The Best Shopping Centre Award 2000 by the Malaysian Chapter of the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI) and The Most Supportive Shopping Outlet 2004 (Shopping Complex) by Tourism of Malaysia. Sunway Pyramid also recently being honored The Best Landscape and The Cleanliest Toilet by Subang Jaya Municipal Council. Sunway Lagoon Resort is the proud winner of the prestigious FIABCI Prix d’Excellence Award 2002 in the leisure category.

However, this is only part of the story; Sunway Pyramid is in fact a showcase 'component' of an even larger and more ambitious enterprise - Sunway Lagoon Resort - a world-class tourist and resort destination. Highlights include the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park (home to the world's largest Surf Pool and world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge); the luxurious 5-star Sunway Lagoon Resort Hotel; the tourist hotel, Pyramid Tower Hotel; the world-class Sunway Pyramid Exhibition and Convention Centre; the integrated health specialist, Sunway Medical Centre; the prestigious Sunway University College; and the first foreign Monash University, Sunway Campus in Malaysia.


Templer's Park

Templer's Park is located at the north of Kuala Lumpur, and is in fact, an expansive area of lush green forests, with cascading waterfalls nestling beside the Serendah Forest Reserve and the landscaped Commonwealth Forest Park. Visitors come to take a dip into the cool, natural swimming pool found at the foot of the trail into the park.

On the way to the waterfall, you will be greeted with a wide variety of flora and faunas along the trail beside a gurgling stream. Trekking would take about 45 minutes until you reach the waterfall.

Provided for adventurers are accommodation and camping facilities.


Tin Museum

The museum outlines the early history of Klang to its present state, with display of ethnographic materials and photographs.

It is housed in an 1856 warehouse which belonged to Raja Abdullah bin Raja Jaafar, a royalty who played an important role in the history of early Klang.

Today, Gedung Raja Abdullah proudly shelters the Klang Tin Museum, a structure deserving the honor to recount the past history of the once coveted tin. A delightfully informative museum.

You can simply wander in and immerse into the realm of days long gone. The exhibition on tin mining is superb and truly educational.

Spend some time there and learn about things you would never have guessed. You will find unexpected gems and trivia. For instance, the first Europeans to soil their hands in tin in Malaya were actually the French!! .

Opening Hours: 10:00am - 6:00pm (Daily).
Closed on Friday.

Admission: Free






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