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The Treasures of Hulu Langat
Hulu Langat is a district famed for its many natural attractions. Rolling verdant hills, refreshing rivers, lush forests and therapeutic hot springs all make it a favourite haunt for many. All along the scenic road, be sure to stop over at the many stalls selling food and beverages, jungle produce and other interesting knick-knacks.
One of its most popular haunts is Sungai Congkak, which is a hit amongst city folks who want to get away from it all. It’s not hard to see why. Located just 45 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur, it is easily accessible to those who do not like spending a lot of time on the road. Once you reach there, your soul will be soothed by the sound of running waters from the long and wide river coupled with the cooling shade of the many trees in the forest reserve.
The lovely Sungai Congkak
Entrance fee is just RM1 per person
Activities include swimming...
BBQs, picnics...
And frolicking with the kids
Picnic grounds and seating areas are plentiful, and so are camp sites and chalets for those who would like to stay overnight. All these facilities face the lovely river and forest. Basic amenities such as toilets are also available for your convenience. For the adventurous, there are interesting jungle trails to explore as far as the eye can see.
The serene Sungai Pangsun
Lubuk Manggis
The Highest Point in Selangor
Just beside Sungai Pangsun stands Gunung Nuang, the highest mountain in the state of Selangor. Managed by the Forestry Department, the facilities there are well-maintained and a chalet for two can be had for just RM20 per night.
Eager climbers at the Gunung Nuang entrance
Mountain climbers would begin their climb early in the morning and reach the summit within 4 to 5 hours’ time. Those who just want the climbing experience and yet not push themselves too hard, can reach Camp Lolo after a 2 hour climb and refresh themselves at a lovely waterfall is located just 15 minutes away.
Better still, if you have a 4WD, you can drive it all the way to Camp Lolo in just 1 hour. Loads of adrenaline pumping fun minus the sweat is guaranteed. Talk about having your cake and eating it, too!
Medicinal Hot Springs
After a strenuous climb up the mountain, you can head over to any of the 3 hot springs Hulu Langat is famed for namely, Batu 16 Dusun Tua Hot Springs, Sungai Serai Hot Springs and near the Dusun Tua Youth Training Centre.
Soaking up the medicinal goodness at the Sungai Serai Hot Springs
So hot, but so good at Sg. Serai Hot Springs
Regular patrons at the Batu 16, Dusun Tua Hot Springs
Not only will the hot spring waters soothe the aching muscles of your legs, it has a host of other medicinal values such as being touted as a cure for many skin ailments, rheumatism and even insomnia. These hot springs are a hit not only amongst the locals, but also the Koreans and Saudi Arabians.
The busiest times are early the morning and later in the evening when the weather is cooler, so if you want to avoid the crowds, you’ll have to brave the hot waters during the hottest part of the day.
Fresh Jungle Produce
All along the roads of Hulu Langat, you will encounter stalls selling products such as jering, paku (ferns), petai beans, mushrooms and such fresh from the jungle. Equally popular are guavas, jambu merah, corn and lemang. These are sold at very reasonable prices i.e. you can get eight corns for RM10.
Stalls selling fresh jungle produce can be found along the roads of Hulu Langat
A Feast for the Eyes and Tummy
Another Hulu Langat treasure not to be missed is the Ampang Lookout Point. The quality of food served at the restaurants up there is said to be rather ordinary, but the amazing view of the KL city skyline you get more than makes up for it.
The Ampang Lookout Point Tower
View from the Ampang Lookout Point
The Veg Fish Farm Thai Restaurant
It is a popular romantic spot for lovers and those who want to celebrate special occasions. In the evening, the air is breezy and cool – it feels as though one is on top of the highlands. If you don’t feel like driving all the way up to the Lookout Point but still want to catch a glimpse of the KL skyline, you can park your car at a turnoff before the entrance. It’s hard to miss as there will be plenty of folks parked there as well – enthusiastic photographers and lovey-dovey couples – all wanting to savour the postcard pretty sunset view of Kuala Lumpur before dinner time.
For an unforgettable and delicious dinner, may we suggest the Veg Fish Farm Thai Restaurant? Situated not too far from the Lookout Point, the quaint and cosy atap-roofed restaurant serves one of the best authentic Thai styled fish dishes in town. The ride to the restaurant may be very bumpy but the lovely view of the organic vegetable farm and fish pond, and delicious food is well worth it. While the adults are busy enjoying their meal, the kids will have fun feeding the fish in the fish pond with food pellets. Don’t forget to indulge in a spot of delectable Thai desserts for a perfect finish to a satisfying meal.
Location Map:
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