The Batu Caves are slightly outside of Kuala Lumpur (about a 20 minute drive) but it is well worth the taxi ride. It’s something like nothing else – when else have you seen the second largest Hindu statue (second to one in Nepal) in bright gold stood next to a cave, surrounded by monkeys!? If there is another one – let me know! But this is quite a different experience.
The first thing you see is the statue of Lord Murugan, which is the tallest statue in Malaysia at 42.7 metres! And it feels even bigger when you’re stood next to it… it took three years to build it so it really is a work of art to revel at.
Once you’ve taken in the sheer spectacle of Lord Murugan, head on to the steps into the cave – there are 272 steps leading into the cave and there is quite a knack getting up – watching your feet up the steep steps, whilst trying to observe the beautiful view of KL and enjoying/avoiding the monkey antics.
The monkeys add a real dimension to the caves – it would be different experience without them; they really keep you on your toes whilst you’re in the caves… they are boss! The monkeys in the cave were so cheeky steeling a little girls orange juice, making her cry and downing it in front of her, just showing everyone that they are in their caves and they have the power. When you see a baby monkey they are extremely cute but do watch out for any food you may have on you and keep tight hold of any shiny things including sunglasses.
At the top of the steps, you’re offered a gorgeous view over the whole of Kuala Lumpur in the distance. The actual caves too are probably the biggest caves I have ever been into! So there are so many aspects of this shrine to enjoy – the caves, the views, the largest statue of Lord Murugan and the cheeky monkeys! A tourist hotspot not to be missed if you’re in KL.
