KL City attractions - Batu Caves

Batu caves is a beautiful pilgrim as well as tourist spot.It is easily accessible from any part of the city. 

How to reach:

From Kuala Lumpur, one can reach Batu Caves, either by Car/Taxi or by the commuter train. Depending on the location of the KL city from where you hire the taxi, it may take 20-30 RM as fare. However the most convenient and the cheapest way to reach is by taking the commuter train from KL Sentral station. it may cost 2-4 RM/ person for to and fro journey. In addition to that the train will drop you very close to the temple may be 100 meters. Train frequency is approximately once in 30-40 minutes. The train can be boarded from Plat form No.3. The duration of the journey will be approximately 20-30 minutes. From KL Sentral, Batu Cave is the 8th station and is the last stop.

What to see:

Lord Muruga Statue:

The main entrance has a very tall statue (140 ft) of Lord Muruga. This is said to be the tallest statue of Lord Muruga.

Lord Shiva Temple:

This temple is located at the main entrance itself and is before climbing the steps. This temple do have the deity of Lord Shiva. Lot of Paintings and statues can be seen at this place.

Lord Muruga Temple:

This is the main temple located at the top. There are approximately 272 steep steps to climb to reach this temple. The main deity is lord Muruga.

Sri Hanuman Temple:

This temple is located outside of the main temple complex and is near to the exit of the KTM commuter station. The main deity is Sri Hanuman.

Ramayana Caves:

Ramayana Cave is located adjacent to the Hanuman Temple. This cave has the paintings and statues depicting the scenes of the Hindu Epic Ramayana. it is a very beautiful thing to watch. There is entry fee of RM 1 or 2 .

Reptile Park:

One reptile park is also seen adjacent to the main entrance. The entry ticket is RM 5 or 10. Since i was not interested to see it, i didn't visit this place.

Other view:
Below are some of the pics from the top as well as the surrounding areas of Batu Caves .

What to do:

Temple visit:

You can visit various temples and caves as mentioned above.

Head Shave (Mundan):

Hindu devotees do perform mundan or head shave. This activity is carried out in any of the hair cutting saloons on the base area of the temple. After the shaving, sandal paste is applied on the head to get a cooling effect.

Shopping:

You can do shopping at the shops available at the base area. There different varies of Indian items/Hindu religious items available as well as the Indian sweets.

Where to eat:

You can food both Indian as well as the local food at various shops available at the base camp. The price is comparatively very cheap. Vegetarian food is available in almost all shops. Tender coconuts are also available.

How much time is required:

If you are just interested in seeing and passing off, half day will be fine. If you are much interested to know the art and culture part, one full day will be required. 

Precautions/Tips:

1. The steps are very steep in nature and hence consider your health before climbing.
2. Be careful while climbing the steps as the steps are very narrow, steep and usually very crowded.
3. It will be better to climb in the morning itself to avoid the sun.
4. While climbing, beware of the monkeys in your surroundings.
5. Be very careful while climbing with the kids
6. Being a worship place, follow the customs as suggested by the authorities.
7. Take care of your belongings.