The Batu Caves are one of the most popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur. This impressive landmark is the site of a Hindu temple and shrine, which attracts visitors and worshipers from all around the world. The Batu Caves has three main caves, its main attracting being the large statue of the Hindu God at the entrance and the 272 rainbow steps.
This is a must see if you are in Kuala Lumpur and this blog post is going to give you all the information you need to plan your visit.
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Table of Contents
Where are they located?
The Batu Caves lie about 11km north from Kuala Lumpur. Located in a neighbourhood named ‘Batu Caves’. The neighbourhood is mainly residential, so there isn’t much to see in the surrounding area. However, there are a few shops and restaurants near the Batu Caves if you get hungry.
What is the best time to go?
I recommend arriving as early as possible. This is such a popular landmark that it gets extremely busy throughout the day. If you are a photographer, I recommend coming first thing in the morning, either on the morning train or by Grab. The complex is almost empty from tourists unless there is a religious event or holiday happening.
I arrived at 8am, and there were only a few people walking around. By 9.30 am when I had finished exploring the complex, it was already packed with tourists.
Cost?
The main section of Batu Caves is completely free to enter. Here you can walk up the rainbow steps and explore the two temples located inside the cave. If you wish to enter the Cave Villa or Ramayana Cave, this is going to come at an extra cost.
How much time should I give myself?
I spent 2 hours exploring the Batu Caves area and about 1.5 hours for all travel time. If you want to explore at a casual pace, I recommend 4-5 hours to complete this activity.
How to Get There
By Train
The easiest way to get to the Batu caves is by train. This is the way I decided to get there, it’s cheap, quick, and easy. There is a train that runs directly to the Batu Caves from KL Sentral on the KTM Komuter line. The train runs from the stations Pulau Sebang – Batu Caves and vis versa.
The Batu Caves timetable can be found here.
Getting to KL Sentral
KL Sentral is a massive transport hub located in the central area of Kuala Lumpur. You can easily get here by bus, train or Grab taxi. How you get here will depend on your hotels location and how long you would like to travel. If you plan on catching the first train to Batu Caves like I did, I recommend catching a Grab.
Once you are dropped at the main entrance, walk down the first set of stairs. Here you will see shops, convenience stores and fast-food stores.
Getting tickets
There are two ways you can get tickets to Batu Caves; from the kiosk or ticket machines. On the righthand side you will see the KTM kiosk where you can buy tickets directly from a person. Or on both sides you will see ticket machines, where you can also buy tickets. It is good to have cash for both options.
I recommend buying a return ticket, as it saves you time and ease once you are at Batu Caves. A return ticket will cost you $5.20 MYR.
Boarding the train
Once you have your tickets, head to the KTM railway line (this is located to the right of McDonalds. Scan your ticket on the entry machines and head down the escalator to platform 5. Wait for your train and board, the final stop on this line is Batu Caves where you will get off.
Entering Batu Caves
One you have arrived at the station, head up the escalator and exit on the left-hand side of the station (when looking back from where the train has come). You will need to scan your ticket again to leave the station. You will see a gate leading to the Batu caves on the left side.
Returning to Kuala Lumpur
It’s very simple to return to KL Sentral. Enter the train station the same way you came, scan your return ticket and head down to the same platform you arrived on. Board the train and get off at KL Sentral! If you haven’t brought a return ticket, you can purchase one at the booth at the Batu Caves station.
Tour
If you are a bit worried about using public transport (which I wouldn’t be!), you can join a tour to Batu Caves. These tours will cost about $30 AUD and include a join in tour. Most do offer hotel pickup, but some you will have to meet at a meeting point. So I would recommend looking into this before booking.
Car/Grab
If you have a large group, it might be worth looking into a private car or Grab transfer to the Batu Caves. This will save you time and convivence, you can also book a grab for a certain time which means you will have smooth pick up.
Is there a Dress Code?
As this is a place of worship, it Is advised to dress appropriately. For Ladies, I recommend long pants or dress, with covered shoulders. For men, t-shirt and shorts below the knee is fine. It’s also advised to wear comfortable shoes as you will need to climb 272 steps.
I hope you found this guide helpful and any questions you may have, please ask them below!
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