While exploring Selangor might be off the cards for now, the sizeable state holds a treasure trove of locations that are secluded, quiet and crowd-less. Just what the doctor ordered to help calm minds and find some sense of balance after a turbulent year.
Of course, you’ll have to wait for travel restrictions to ease again, but when they do, consider visiting these locations in the Golden State.
Lemon Myrtle Tea Plantation, Sabak Bernam
Most commonly found in Australia, lemon myrtle tea plantations are now being seen more frequently around the world and here in Malaysia, Sekinchan lays claim to a sprawling estate.
Visitors here can take in the beautiful greenery of the surrounding area, the neatly planted rows of lemon myrtle and paddy fields all around – each a stunning backdrop to your selfie. After exploring the area, take a load off in the hammocks that hang around for all visitors to use and don’t forget to grab a souvenir on the way out. Made from lemon myrtle tea, products include hand soap, body soap, fresh lemon tea water and much more.
Where: Lot 16281, Jalan Tali Air 6 Sekinchan,Selangor Darul Ehsan
When: Saturday and Sunday (9am-5pm)
Admission: RM3 (adults), RM1 (children aged 7 and above)
Paddy Fields, Sekinchan, Sabak Bernam
As previously mentioned, Sekinchan is also famous for some of the most breath taking paddy fields in the country. If you’re seeking refuge from the bustle and bustle of the city, this is the perfect place. Serene and silent, the beautiful paddy fields will help you clear your mind, and if you want to find out more about the process of rice seeding, planting and harvesting, you can do that here as well.
If you’re feeling peckish, make sure to stop by the famous bakeshop Ah Ma House, where you’ll find a range of traditional Chinese delights in the form of biscuits, crackers and baked goods like pineapple tarts, kuih kapit and kuih bangit (tapioca cookies).
Where: Sekinchan Paddy Fields, Sekinchan, Sabak Bernam, Selangor
The National Botanical Garden, Shah Alam
This green attraction in the heart of Shah Alam is an agro-tourism park that was designed for both leisure and research. While basking in the lush surroundings you can delve into various fields of study here including agriculture, horticulture, botany, zoology, animal production, inland fisheries, fruit crops and more. There are a wide variety of parks and gardens such as orchid, spice and fruits gardens, as well as a sanctuary for animals.
One of the hotly anticipated soon-to-be-opened features here is the four-seasons house where you will be able to experience winter, spring, autumn and summer all under one roof.
Where: Taman Botani Negara, Bukit Cahaya Seri Alam, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor
When: Tue-Sun (7.30am-4.30pm)
Admission: RM3 (adults), RM1 (children aged 6 and above)
Selangor River Dam, Hulu Selangor
A stunning site that should be on everyone’s list if they are traveling throughout the state is that of the Selangor River Dam. Popular with photographers and fishers alike, the area has a crystal-clear lake and is bordered by rolling hills.
There are beautiful spots for picnics all around and tracks for cycling or running if you want to get in some exercise. Come nightfall, a star-filled sky emerges making it ideal for spotting constellations or simply stargazing – activities that are impossible in KL with all the light pollution.
Where: Lookout Point Sungai Selangor Dam, 55, 44000 Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor
Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands, Kuala Langat
Nature lovers flock to this vast national park that covers some 1,111 acres, comprising a diverse ecosystem home to untold plants and animals. This vibrant wetlands is one of the major conservation efforts in Malaysia, while also offering an exciting array of activities for all visitors.
From horseback riding to hot air ballon rides, feeding crocodiles to kayaking, jungle trekking to cycling, there’s something for everyone be they seasoned adventurer or easy going traveller.
This is an eco-tourism destination like no other in Malaysia and a must stop if you’re looking for adventure in Selangor!
Where: KM 4, Jalan Dengkil, Banting, 43800 Dengkil, Selangor
When: 8.30am-4.30pm (daily)
Admission: RM35 (weekdays), RM45 (weekends)
Selangor Fruit Valley, Kuala Selangor
Home to a great variety of local fruit farms, this vibrant valley in Kuala Selangor is a study in colour and diversity. The rich grounds are home to rambutan, papaya, starfruit, guava and many more local fruits that you can pick and eat – all for free!
Other attractions here include a mini petting zoo, agricultural centre, traditional houses, dear and kelulut honey farms, and a river where you can engage in all levels of kayaking. There’s a tram service that will take you on a tour of the grounds, and a coconut stall where you can quench your thirst with some ice-cold beverages as well.
Where: Selangor Fruits Valley SFV, Rawang, Berjuntai Bestari, Selangor
When: 9am-4pm (daily except for Friday)
Admission: RM15 (adults), RM10 (children aged 4 and above, and senior citizens aged 60 and above)
Pulau Ketam, Klang
Pulau Ketam, or Crab Island, is a mangrove-fringed island that was first settled by fisherman from Hainan in the 1870s. Now, the island is home to more than 8,000 fisherman who live on wooden homes built on stilts into the muddy grounds. These mudflats are also filled with vast populations of crustaceans, including, of course, the humble mud crab.
Naturally, there are some excellent seafood restaurants in the area, each offering a mouth-watering selection of fresh ocean catches. You can access these via boat or walking on narrow boardwalks that connect the villages and restaurants. Cycling is another option, but those who are less experienced should be cautious of the tight paths.
Where: Jalan Foreshore, Kawasan 20, 42000 Pelabuhan Klang, Selangor