This article if from Travel Wire Asia website. Written by Alun Hill on 27 September 2012.
For the full version of this article, please visit the following website:
You probably think of Kuala Lumpur (KL) as an immense, vibrant metropolis buzzing with attractions, entertainment complexes and shopping opportunities that make it such a popular city and tourist destination.
What you may not expect is that among all the bright lights and noise, there is another side to the city where there are beautiful areas of tranquillity and natural wonder.
In this brief introduction to the wildlife experiences and green spaces of KL, I aim not only to highlight the attractions and possibilities which are on offer, but also to show you the nature of a city which makes enjoying these areas such a unique experience.
Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve
Hutan Simpan Bukit Nanas Jalan Raja Chulan, tel. 03-2026-4741
The most noticeable aspect of the wild spaces of KL is that they highlight the contrasts evident in the city between man made constructions and nature and I believe that this is best experienced at the Bukit Nanas forest reserve.
At a “mere” 16 hectares, it may not have the expanse of Asian jungle some visitors expect but, as I found, you can still lose yourself in the atmosphere and the extraordinary tropical fauna and flora that includes all kinds of mammals, birds and reptiles in the wild – including the beautiful Silver Langur monkeys. In fact when you’re here it’s hard to believer you’re still right in the heart of the city, beside the Kuala Lumpur Tower!
Perdana Botanical Gardens
Jalan Perdana, Open: 7am – 7pm.
Another green highlight of Kuala Lumpur is the vast, manicured 91 hectares (200 acres) of the Perdana Botanical Gardens – more commonly referred to as the Lake Gardens.
I recommend this stunning park because it not only offers the chance to relax in surroundings which counterbalance the hectic nature of the city, but it also provides the opportunity to see a wide range of animals, birds and flowers in the listings below.
Now, unlike the forest setting of Bukit Nanas, I admit that these parks and gardens are carefully managed money-making tourist attractions – but this should not diminish the experience.
Flower nursery. Picture: Tourism Malaysia.
Deer Park
Jalan Perdana, open 9am-6.30pm
Sprawled over two hectares (five acres), this area with shady trees, trickling streams and ponds is home to spotted deer from Holland – have your camera at the ready, as the deer are so beautifully tame that you can hand feed these very gentle creatures whilst keeping a look out for the endearing, but shy, Sang Kancil, the wily mouse deer of ancient folklore.
KL Butterfly Park
Jalan Perdana, open 9am-6.30pm
I know of no other city which has more than 6,000 butterflies (from over 120 species)! The park staff have lovingly recreated the natural habitat of the butterfly with a vast variety of exotic plants and multi-hued blooms.
It’s a great experience to stroll along and see the various colours and sizes of these beautiful species. Some of my favourites include the huge Raja Brooke, Iswara, Malay Lacewing, Five Bar Swordtail, Yellow Tip, Indian Leaf and the Lime Butterfly.
Also housed within the park are a butterfly nursery and a breeding area, an insect museum (fascinating, not scary, I promise!) and, of course, a souvenir shop –this one is well stocked and has good value gifts and the income helps towards the running of the park. Do buy a video camera permit if you want to film.
ASEAN Sculpture Garden
Parlimen Road, open: 9-6.30pm.
This rather unique garden contains sculptures of materials like stainless steel, glass, wood, marble, iron and bamboo. I was impressed by how well crafted the exhibits were. The garden lies across from the National Monument and is not far from the Lake Gardens.
As you can see, there are a considerable number of enjoyable green attractions to visit in KL. From forests to birds and butterflies each experience brings to life a unique aspect of Kuala Lumpur.
This article if from the Travel Wire Asia website. Written by Alun Hill on 27 September 2012.
For the full version of this article, please visit the following website: