batu caves half day tour

KL Country Tour Batu Caves (Group)

Our 3 and a half hour tour include stops at Batu Caves temple, the world-renowned Royal Selangor Pewter factory and they can opt to watch batik craftsmen perform a traditional batik painting demonstration and get to admire the Beryl Chocolate Gallery as well.

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• Description
• Full Pricing
• Important Notes
• Reviews (82)

Located just 8 miles away from the city of Kuala Lumpur in the Gombak district within the state of Selangor lies Batu Caves which is Malaysia’s most visited Hindu shrine built in honor of Shiva’s son, Lord Murugan and also the venue for the annual Hindu festival known as Thaipusam, held on the full moon between January and February. It’s a festival celebrated by the Tamil community and its devotees named the Kavadi carriers who subject themselves to seemingly excruciating rituals mainly, body piercings). And although the sight is rather unpleasant for first-time visitors, it is a ritual that only devotees go through to attain a trance-like state which prevents them from feeling pain.

For more of an adventure, you can climb the ancient stairs leading to the entrance of the cave system (272 steps in all), to get a magnificent view of Kuala Lumpur when you reach the top. The crowning glory of the Hindu temple is the gigantic statue of Muragan standing atop the entire structure. At 140 feet, this is the second tallest statue devoted to any Hindu deity and it’s the largest statue of a deity in the world.

Duration      : 3.0 hours Tour Starts  : 8:00am or 1:00pm

• Batu Caves – 2nd tallest Hindu deity in the world (Visit Stop)
• Istana Sultan Brunei (Drive Pass)
• Ambassador’s Row – Ampang Road (Drive Pass)
• Royal Selangor Pewter Factory (Visit Stop)
• Batik Factory – Traditional Batik Demo (Optional)
• Beryls Chocolate Gallery (Optional)

Fee includes:

• Group tour and transfers
• Professional Driver-Guide Service
• Air-Conditioned vehicle
• Pick up from KL City Hotels Lobby
• Drop Off at Twin Towers

Fee Excludes:

• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• For travellers who stay out of KL City Centre Hotels, kindly take a cab and come to Double Tree by Hilton Hotel and wait near the Dome Cafe.

Dress Code for Batu Caves:

• Do not wear sexy looking cloths
• Shorts Pants and Skirts are not allowed (you may rent a scarf at the cave to cover them)
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended but not compulsory

Best Rate in Town with Limited Seats!

Payment Method – Option 1

• For minimum deposits, click on the “Pay Deposit” button.

Payment Method – Option 2

• For customers planning to pay the entire amount, click on the “Full Amount” button.

How Do I Get Confirmation?

• After you’ve complete the online payment process, a confirmation notice will be sent to you via email.
• You may just save it in your phone for your own reference and dont have to print it.

Pick Up Area for Tours

• Pick up points for hotels, homestays and service residences in the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotels only
• For pick up outside of these areas, will subject to surcharge based on the distance

Where Can I Wait? How Will My Driver Recognize Me?

• You can wait at your respective hotel’s lobby 5 minutes prior to the start of the tour. Our driver will look for you at the lobby. If you cannot find the driver, please call us at 0060129287034 or 0060132084862 and we will provide assistance. Generally the waiting time is around 20 minutes and if it takes longer than that without any consent, it will be classified as a “No Show”.

What To Bring

• Cameras and some cash to buy souvineers

82 reviews for KL Country Tour Batu Caves (Group)

Qian Chang – 2016-02-24 :

Traveled as a couple and we were worid about going to Batu Cave since we knew that this is popilar destination in Malaysia. We think there are too many people that we still cannot enjoy it there. So when we booked with Mytravellane we are happy that they assure to us that we will have a full experience. We highly recommend their package.

Damien – 2016-03-24 :

Batu Caves is stunning! Also, we are super relieved that our driver and guide is fluent in English so communication has never been a problem! –much thanks from backpackers from Chicago

Libby Scott – 2016-07-11 :

A half day experience that will last a lifetime. Thumbs up for well/organized tour

Jack Pengiran – 2017-10-23 :

MyTravellane brought us to a unique tourist destination with the Batu Caves. Seeing the religious art and hindu faith in the flesh was an enlightening experience. The side trips to the Istana Sultan Brunei and Roual Selangor Pewter Factory only added to the whole experience. I will truly remember this whole experience.

Abigail – 2018-07-25 :

Booking was very easy. There is even a transportation to pickup i the hotel

Rossel Ghian – 2018-07-25 :

Thank you so much for the very accommodation and comfortable tour… Thumbs up guys surely not our last GOD BLESS

Hansel Cyril – 2018-07-25 :

This is okay if you want to get around the city and know the history.

Rodney Lemuel – 2018-07-30 :

Batu Caves is stunning! Also, we are super relieved that our driver and guide is fluent in English

Michelle – 2018-07-30 :

A lovely tour, the weather was a little too hot, but that has nothing to do with the tour instead mother-nature.

Jennifer – 2018-07-31 :

Great experience, informative, and tour guide is really nice

John Dani – 2018-07-31 :

very affordable and educational tour! the wait time is short! great deal!

Stephen Chow – 2018-08-01 :

Awesome, definitely recommended! Tour guide was very knowledgeable!

Singaravelu – 2018-08-01 :

Such a wonderful experience. Very smooth and hassle-free transaction. My Tour Lane made our travel easy as always. Would definitely use My Tour Lane the next time we travel. Cheers!

Mark Waz – 2018-08-02 :

It was a nice place to go to. Very convenient that the bus picked us up from the hotel

Winne Poh – 2018-08-02 :

instagram worthy 💛💛💛 tour guide was very informative 💛💛💛

Poland Joy – 2018-08-06 :

The tour was great. Its exactly like what its listed and the tour guide is so approachable as well. We’ve learned so much about Malaysia

Sheila K – 2018-08-06 :

Mr. Lobo – 2018-08-06 :

very affordable and educational tour

Sabina – 2018-08-07 :

Batu Caves is a worthwhile place. The only place that can be improved is that the journey can be increased from 40 minutes to at least 1 hour.

Daniella – 2018-08-07 :

On time to the hotel shuttle, along the way also continue to explain travel itinerary and history.

Violet – 2018-08-08 :

In the hot weather to participate in this half-day itinerary is indeed a good choice both to reduce week car labor but also in a short period of time to visit the main attractions in Kuala Lumpur downtown good not bad!

Camila – 2018-08-08 :

Good guides, good service, on the way there visit the center to sell products from tin & fabric

Jayden – 2018-08-09 :

Good value for money tour. But feel so location like the Batik shop is not needed as it’s just a small shop.. overall fine with the tour

Daisy – 2018-08-09 :

A must see item in kuala lumpur , price is reasonable including the transportation

Belarus – 2018-08-10 :

Very affordable. This is a must for tourists since it is very convenient way to travel to Batu caves

Bolivia – 2018-08-10 :

Had a very good and hassle free halfday tour to batu cave. Highly recommended.

William Henry Harrison – 2018-08-13 :

Good introduction to the country . Worth of Money!

James K Folk – 2018-08-13 :

So nice place i enjoy the driver jokes and all very nice man to wait on us while were catching our breath going walk the 287 steps and back hahahaa

Florin Andone – 2018-08-15 :

The tour was nice, very convenient so it was better.

Pascal Groß – 2018-08-15 :

Very punctual, driving very kind, along the scenery and human introduction, the next opportunity to participate in similar itinerary.

Dominic Poleon – 2018-08-16 :

Good driver , good service, on the way there visit the center to sell products from tin & fabric

George Francomb – 2018-08-16 :

The overall tour is great. It was an awesome experience not just for me but for my friends too. We’ll be happy to recommend this tour/app to all my friends and family. There’s a lot of room for improvement (like mobile notifications, food options, souvenirs on board, etc) but I’m satisfied from what I get out of my money. Keep doing great and may it prosper through the years.

David Jose – 2018-08-17 :

Hassle free! 🙂 You have to prepare your body especially your lower limbs because you have to climb a 272 steps to reach the highest peak of the cave. nice place!

jesnita – 2018-08-17 :

Thank.you for providing ua a less hassle arrangements..It was all fun nd cool!

Paul Wilson – 2018-08-20 :

Great tour package for a low price. Friendly and helpful staff!

Eden Hazard – 2018-08-20 :

We really enjoy the city tour. It was fun and comfortable..the driver is patient and knowledgeable..hope to be back soon..thank you

Roger Gallet – 2018-08-21 :

It was a good journey. So happy. We’ll book here in the next trip!

Brooks Brothers – 2018-08-21 :

Value for money experience.. It was a fun blast experience tour.

Minarsha – 2018-08-23 :

It was a fun blast experience plus the very informative tour

Sophie Leone – 2018-08-23 :

Worth every penny! The tour might seems rush but they’d actually give you enough time to check out each place and take photos. I

Currant – 2018-08-27 :

I enjoyed the tour.Lots of places to visit. Happy tourist!

Cherimoya – 2018-08-27 :

So much fun. A half day tour in KL are so convenient.

Sebastin Vettel – 2018-08-29 :

The trip was well planned. The pickup was at right time and the tour was good and experienced.

Vaiterri Bottas – 2018-08-29 :

The tour was very informative and very accommodating. This tour was worth our money

Siva SRC – 2018-09-03 :

nice place, a day its not enough, love this place so much

Thiaga – 2018-09-03 :

So many happy moment with my friends. I hope can go there again and again . Thank you

Rhoda – 2018-09-28 :

the pick up was on time. the driver cum tour guide was friendly and fun to be with. we’ll recommend it to our friends when they plan to visit KL.

Joe Will – 2018-09-28 :

The tour was value for money. The driver tour guide was very knowledgeable and articulate. He also managed the time quite well. Our kids enjoyed and learned a lot.

My Lane – 2018-10-01 :

I’m so happy we booked the city tour. We learned a lot from our driver/tour guide.

Normy – 2018-10-01 :

It was really good! Never expected this kind of a service but was really good.

Ma.Kathrina – 2018-10-02 :

A must visit in KL! We had a great time here! 🙂 Thanks,

Reginald Anton – 2018-10-02 :

It was nice- driver pick us up on time. Worth my time and money.

Yaoyi – 2018-10-03 :

It was a great experience. Nice place. Had a great time!

Amirah Izzati – 2018-10-03 :

Nice experience! Will visit again sometime soon..

Gadiel – 2018-10-05 :

Amazing scene, suitable for a family trip.

Mycra – 2018-10-05 :

Great experienced!!! Definitely travel again

Dalyn Mae – 2018-10-08 :

Perfect for first timers like me and my husband. Highly recommended. It’s a must-try

Rachelle Anne – 2018-10-10 :

The tour was really good. The driver cum guide was also nice

John Carlo – 2018-10-10 :

great experience! limited time but i enjoyed the tour! Tour guide is very accommodating

Charmaine Criscelle – 2018-10-12 :

It was great… We started on time and finished on time

imelda – 2018-10-12 :

thanks for this super affordable tour in kuala lumpur

Ragesh – 2018-10-12 :

Very efficient! We were fetched by the driver on time. The tour was great.

Mohammed A – 2018-11-22 :

it was fun and comfortable… the driver cum guide is really easy to talk to…

Astrid Athina – 2018-11-22 :

Really nice experience first time visitors should use only this app. for both money savings and safety really good

madelene – 2018-12-04 :

The tour was exciting and very exciting having able to visit the different places in the tour.

NAGENDRABABU – 2018-12-04 :

The tour guide is very funny and helpful. me and my cousins enjoyed the tour!

Romeo Jr – 2018-12-05 :

The price is cheaper compare to other website, everything is Great! Definitely Will come again !

Hwee Hoon – 2018-12-05 :

Breath-taking!!! The best experience in KL!!!

Chau Ping – 2018-12-06 :

Superb experience. Timely picked up from hotel and dropped back conveniently.

Hsin Yi – 2018-12-06 :

Great experience and very professional tour

NAREERAT – 2018-12-12 :

Great way to start your KL adventure. Cheap and very accessible

ling ling – 2018-12-12 :

Fast and smooth transaction. will book again. Nice tour

Maria Madel – 2019-08-15 :

Amazing experience, loved the place, beautiful locations, must visit

Cydney – 2019-08-15 :

Great explanation of the history of the places,tour was well structured and comfortable to follow

Kristina – 2019-08-19 :

The driver cum guide is so nice and helpful. It’s really worth the trip since weather so hot

ACHAL – 2019-08-19 :

Nice tour, my friends and i learned a lot from history and culture of Malaysia,

Juanito Jr – 2019-08-21 :

The tour was not enough to enjoy and explore it. but despite the limited time, Our driver cum guide was very friendly and interactive.

Karla Angelica – 2019-08-21 :

Fantastic Value and a great introduction to Malaysia

Enrica – 2019-08-23 :

The tour guide had a good knowledge and was funny it was nice to spend the day with him. He also took great pictures so we got a lot of memories from the day.

Cruz – 2019-08-23 :

A really enjoyable day with a delightful and knowledgeable driver cum guided . He spoke with passion, in very clear English. Everything went to time. Highly recommend it.

Rodelita – 2019-09-03 :

The service picked and dropped us at our hotel. The tour was joined by different nationalities. Our driver cum tour guide speaks English clearly and has a very nice smile.

Deborah – 2019-09-03 :

It was a great half day tour! We enjoyed it. The driver cum tour guide was really nice and friendly.

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Dive Into Malaysia

Batu Caves: Everything You Need To Know BEFORE Visiting Here

Looking for the best attractions in Kuala Lumpur? Then you’ll definitely be visiting the Batu Caves temple complex located on the edge of KL.

One of the most visited attractions in Malaysia, you may have already seen photos of the colourful Batu Caves stairs, the big Lord Murugan statue that guards the entrance, the colourful Batu Caves temples and the caves at the top. It makes for quite a sight and it’s only better when you see it in person.

If you’re wondering if it’s worth visiting Batu Caves, it definitely is. There is a lot to see and explore here and it’s a beautiful place for many reasons.

Below, I describe everything you need and want to know before your Batu Caves visit from what exactly you can see there, what it’s like inside Batu Caves, the Batu Caves history, the answer to where is Batu Caves, the Batu Caves temple opening hours, the entrance fee to Batu Caves, what you should wear and much more.

So keep reading! As you’ll soon know everything you need to about this great attraction in the full Batu Caves review with plenty of Batu Caves photos.

Travelling to Malaysia?  Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist .  We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

What Is Batu Caves?

Put simply, Batu Caves is a set of Hindu temples built in both caves and the surrounds on the edge of Kuala Lumpur. There are four main caves to visit.

Keep reading for more details.

History Of Batu Caves Malaysia

Batu Caves is situated on a mogote which is a type of steep-sided hill made out of limestone, marble or dolomite. This limestone formation is thought to be around 400 million years old and is quite a sight on the edges of the massive Kuala Lumpur.

So if you want to know, when was Batu Caves built ? The answer is they have existed for a long time. But its relatively recent history is when things become more interesting.

The caves found here were first used by humans as shelter by the indigenous population. Then around 1860, Chinese settlers began taking the guano found here (bat poo) for fertilising their gardens.

The Batu Caves story really begins when an Indian Tamil trader, K. Thamboosamy Pillai, dedicated a temple to Lord Murugan inside the caves. He promoted this to others in the Hindu community as a place of worship.

Then in 1890, Pillai, the founder of Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur, installed the consecrated statue of Sri Murugan Swami in Temple Cave.

After this, the tradition of celebrating the Thaipusam festival at this site began in 1892 and Batu Caves was on the map as an important site for the Tamil population of Malaysia.

Batu Caves temple history took a big step forward when wooden steps up to Temple Cave were built in 1920. In 1940, two sets of concrete steps were completed.

The next big change came in 2018 Batu Caves when the stairs were painted to form the famous, colourful site that it is today.

Today, Batu caves is one of the most popular Hindu temples outside India. It receives many visitors and is one of the most popular attractions in Malaysia.

Where Are The Batu Caves In Malaysia? And Batu Caves Address

The Batu Caves location is on the edge of Kuala Lumpur, about 13 kilometres from the centre.

The Batu Caves temple address is simply Batu Caves, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia. You can see the map below for where to find it as well as instructions.

Batu Caves Map

How To Get To Batu Caves

It is simple to get to Batu Caves from KL. If you aren’t in KL yet, make your way to the capital and then you can follow our instructions from here.

You basically have two choices. Either take a taxi or get the train.

Taxis are the simple option and only cost around RM20 on the Grab app depending on the time of day and how busy the taxi service is. It takes around 20-55 minutes depending on traffic.

The other option is the KTM Komuter train. This is also straight forward.

Batu Caves is at the end of the line and you can easily catch this from KL Sentral or Kuala Lumpur station. This takes about 35 minutes and is clean and comfortable.

Read our full guide to how to get to Batu Caves here.

An even easier option where you’ll also learn more about Batu Caves facts is to take a tour. These are cheap and easy and usually available daily. See more information below on the best Batu Caves tour package options.

Batu Caves Opening Hours

I read many times before I visited that the Batu Caves opening times are 7am-8pm daily.

However, this isn’t quite true. The main temple and staircase area opened at 5:45am when I visited, but different parts of Batu Caves have different opening hours.

Cave Villa opens 8:30am – 5:30pm. Ramayana Cave opens 9am – 6pm.

If you want to make the most of your visit, going early does help you arrive when the tourists aren’t there. I took many of these photos 7:15 – 8am and you can see the lack of tourists. I was the only one there not worshipping which was a fantastic experience.

But then I was left waiting for other temples to open. It’s really up to you what works best.

Batu Caves Entrance Fee

The good news is that some of the Batu Caves attraction is free! So if you are on a tight budget, you can definitely still visit here and experience it.

Some of the individual activities in Batu Caves have an entry fee. The Batu Caves tickets price for Ramayana Cave is RM5 and Cave Villa is RM15. It’s cheaper for Malaysians.

Things To Do Around Batu Caves

There are a few different Batu Caves attractions including four caves, the colourful steps and, of course, the big Lord Murugan Statue.

Lord Murugan Statue Batu Caves

The Lord Murugan Batu Caves statue is the massive gold statue next to the stairs. You cannot miss it.

Its height is a massive 42.7 metres, and it took three years to build. It was actually only added to the site in 2006.

Lord Hanuman Statue Batu Caves

The Lord Hanuman Statue is a green statue that is an impressive 15 metres high about 100 metres to the left of Lord Murugan.

There is also a temple next to this which is worth checking out.

Batu Caves Steps

Since the Batu Caves Malaysia steps were painted such amazing colours, they may be the most well known part of Batu Caves – and you’ll definitely want to take a photo and walk to the top to Temple Cave.

If you are wondering how many steps in Batu Caves, there are 272. It’s quite a work out!

The stairs are in good condition though with a hand rail so it’s easy enough to do.

Take a moment to turn around and take in the view as you walk up as well. You can see a fair bit of KL from up here.

Temple Cave

Located at the top of the stairs, Temple Cave is the most famous of the Batu Caves. This is where you can easily explore the Batu Caves inside.

You’ll find a huge cavern with two shrine areas. The Batu Caves height is about 90 metres here.

The first temple is devoted to Lord Muragan and the second one is where the Sri Valli Deivanai temple is. This is devoted to the wife of Murugan.

It definitely feels like a world away from Kuala Lumpur.

Batu Caves Dark Cave

The Dark Cave Batu Caves is a conservation site.

It is located by an area about midway up the stairs. There is a path here that leads to the entrance of the Dark Caves.

Visits to this cave are by tour only. However, it was not clear to me whether tours here have resumed or not since they were stopped a few years ago.

If you are able to visit, this cave is not lit and known for its rock formations, wildlife, particularly the Trapdoor Spider which is meant to be the rarest spider in the world, and adventure activities.

The tours previously were either a shorter one where you got to see the rock formations and bats (and maybe a spider) or an adventure tour which included spelunking, visiting adventurous narrow sections and getting wet.

Ramayana Cave

Another of the Batu Caves things to do is the interesting Ramayana Cave. It’s located next to the Hanuman statue about 100 metres to the left of the stairs.

Ramayana Cave is much smaller with lower ceilings than Temple Cave, but it is decorated with many statues, shrines and scenes from the Hindu epic of the same name. More items are being added over time, so even if you have been here before, you may want to check it out again.

This cave has an entry fee which helps keep visitor numbers down making it more enjoyable.

The final cave you’ll want to consider visiting is Cave Villa, just to the left of the colourful stairs. This can be an option if you can’t climb the 272 stairs to Temple Cave.

This cave has a RM15 entry fee (less for Malaysians) at the time of publishing, and there are a couple of entry points which are clearly signposted. It’s a privately own caved and not associated with the rest of Batu Caves.

After paying the entry fee, you get to walk across a bridge over a koi pond as pictured above. There are actually two caves here that also have statues, scenes and shrines.

Unfortunately, there are also some caged animals and reptiles in inhumane conditions, so I recommend you choose to skip this cave rather than pay to support this. I chose to not go inside for this reason.

Other Temples

There are multiple temples here in addition to the caves that you can easily visit as you explore the site.

You need to be dressed respectively to enter (see more about this below), and you should remove your shoes and socks.

These are such peaceful, special places to explore early as people made offerings and chanted. I highly recommend it.

Rock Climbing Batu Caves

Looking for more adventure on your Batu Caves trip? You can rock climb here!

You can do this in a 3-4 hour session with guides and all gear included. You do need a good fitness level but it’s ok for beginner rock climbers.

The climbing takes place at Gua Damai on the same limestone hills as the caves.

Click here more details and latest prices.

Thaipusam Festival

The main Batu Caves festival is for the annual celebration of Thaipusam, a major Hindu event.

It’s a three day festival which occurs in late January or early February with processions and many, many pilgrims.

It’s quite an experience and worth attending if you are around at the right time.

However, it’s quite a different experience to a trip to Batu Caves at other times so try to experience Batu Caves at a less busy time as well.

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience in KL?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

There are three different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food, nightlife or off the beaten track places.

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Kuala Lumpur.

There’s no better way to discover this great city.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

Batu Caves Tours

Here are some popular and affordable tour options…

Private Half Day Tour

In this half day tour, you’ll get return transfers and a private guide to ensure you get the most out of your experience. There are morning or afternoon options for a great price.

Click here for the latest prices and times.

Batu Caves + Other Local Stops

This half day tour includes return transfers, a guide and also two other stops in addition to Batu Caves.

You’ll visit the Royal Selangor Pewter Factory and a Batik Factory showroom as well as learning more about the local area. There are morning and afternoon departures.

Batu Caves And Genting Highlands Tour

You can also combine a visit to the Batu Caves with a visit to Genting Highlands for a fabulous day tour.

This tour consists of a driver-guide who will share the history of Malaysia while navigating through traffic to your first stop at Batu Caves. After this, he will drive you on to the Awana cable car to take you up to Genting Highlands (cable car included).

You’ll have free time to visit the theme parks and local attractions before taking the cable car back down, meeting with your driver and returning to KL. This Genting Highlands and Batu Caves tour is perfect for anyone who wants to make the most of their time in Malaysia.

You can find more city tours that include Batu Caves here.

Batu Caves Dress Code

This is a sacred site and you need to dress appropriately. I met someone the day before my most recent visit who told me how she forgot to wear her long dress on her visit and had to buy the RM15 scarves to cover up.

To avoid this, you basically want to cover your knees and shoulders.

The photo above is from the bottom of the stairs up to Temple Cave and gives you a good description of what is ok and not. You can take your own scarf to cover up when going in the temples or buy one here if you are stuck.

You need to take your shoes and socks off to enter temples. This can mean that sandals can be easier. However, I recommend good walking shoes for the stairs so you can feel steady and supported, especially if they are wet.

Batu Caves Weather And When To Visit Batu Caves

Malaysia is in the tropics and basically this means it is hot and humid year round – and it could rain any time you visit Batu Caves. In fact, it didn’t rain during my visit, but there was water falling in Temple Cave so I still got wet!

The heaviest rains can be in March or April, but I would prepare for the fact that rain can happen at any time.

This means it is always smart to take an umbrella, but I would definitely try for a dry day when you visit. It wouldn’t be much fun walking up the Batu Caves staircase in the rain.

The weather Batu Caves experiences is always hot. Visiting first thing in the morning can feel a lot cooler though and I would avoid the heat in the middle of the day if possible.

Batu Caves Monkeys

The monkeys at Batu Caves have a mischievous reputation so watch out for them 🙂

They are not always around so you may not see them, but if you do, I recommend not having food out when they are around. It’s best not to fight them if they try to take something from you as they can bite. Basically, ignore them if you can.

Batu Caves Restaurant

There are eating options right by Batu Caves as pictured above which is to the right of the Batu Caves Murugan statue.

Not much is open early, when this photo was taken, but you’ll never go hungry here.

Final Words

The Batu Caves temple Malaysia is an amazing place to visit and it should be high on your list of attractions to see when in KL. It’s easy to get here and combine with other sightseeing so there’s really no reason to miss it.

It was an extra awesome experience visiting early in the morning when everyone around seemed there to worship. The chanting, the cooler air, the amazing surrounds… such an experience!

You can read more about things to do in KL here , find our detailed guide to getting from KL to Batu Caves here or find our full Kuala Lumpur travel guide here . You can also find our list of Kuala Lumpur tours here – many include Batu Caves.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

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Batu Caves Tour Half Day Trip

A short 8-mile drive will take you from KL city to the Gombak district within Selangor state. It is the location of the Batu Caves which is Malaysia’s most visited Hindu shrine. It was built in honor of Shiva’s son, Lord Murugan, and also is now the venue for the annual Hindu festival known as Thaipusam. A festival is scheduled on the first full moon between the months of January and February.

The Tamil community in the district hosts this celebration with devotees named, the Kavadi, who are carriers that subject themselves in painful rituals that consist mainly of body piercings which is a rather unpleasant sight, especially for tourists seeing it for the first time. These Hindu devotees transcend in trance which keeps them from feeling pain when undergoing the ritual.

The caves are found under a 400 million year old limestone hill which serves as a pilgrimage site for the Tamil. They are a Hindu tribe that came from all over the world. They occupy three major caves and the two main cave temples which are filled with Hindu artifacts.

One of the Temple Caves is one of the largest caves in the country and visitors will find the world’s tallest statue of Lord Murugan which stands at 140 feet, built with concrete and painted in gold. The climb to the Temple Cave will be through a long flight of 272 steps. Along the way to the shrine, visitors will be able to interact with the Cynomolgus monkey species and other monkey species as they climb the limestone hill. At the top of the hill, tourists will get treated to a wonderful panoramic view of the city .

Watch this video to find out more about Batu Caves.

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Inside the world’s most stunning caves and caverns

Posted: January 13, 2024 | Last updated: January 13, 2024

Subterranean spectacles

Some of the most amazing spectacles in this world are hidden deep underground, beneath rocks, sea and even ice. Many house cool attractions, some have a fascinating history, while others are simply mesmerising to look at.

Read on to see 29 of the world's most incredible caves and caverns you can actually visit...

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, USA

Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave National Park is the world’s longest known cave system. It’s at least 400 miles (644km) long (an additional eight miles/13km was added in 2021), but there’s so much more that hasn’t even been explored. It’s easy to visit and free to enter the park, but you must pay for the cave tours (book in advance in summer).

Postojna Caves, Slovenia

Postojna Caves is Slovenia’s largest cave system, which spans over 12 miles (19km), with a quarter of that open to the public. You can walk the route, but there’s also a miniature train (opened in 1872) for a relaxing exploration of 2.2 miles (3.7km). Look out for the creepy, almost translucent olms, or “baby dragons", in the exhibition aquarium.

Hotel Marhala, Tunisia

Want to sleep on a Star Wars set? Then make like R2D2 and head to Hotel Marhala in Matmata, southern Tunisia. Some people in the Berber-speaking town still live in these traditional 'troglodyte' caves. Don’t expect luxury accommodation, this is the very definition of basic.

Luray Caverns, Virginia, USA

While there are plenty of reasons to visit Luray – huge caverns, an incredible lake, ceilings that are 10 storeys high – the main reason is to hear the world’s largest musical instrument. The Stalacpipe Organ makes music by gently tapping stalactites. Buy your tickets in advance.

The Door to Hell, Turkmenistan

It’s not exactly a top tourist attraction, but Turkmenistan’s Door to Hell is pretty fascinating. Officially called the Darvaza crater, it was caused by a Soviet oil rig drilling into a natural gas cavern in 1971 and has been burning ever since. Take an off-the-beaten-track tour to visit while you still can, as it's been reported that the Turkmenistan president wants to extinguish the fire (natural gas is an important resource for the country).

Marble Caves, Chile

The Shell Grotto, Kent, England, UK

Mendenhall Ice Cave, Alaska, USA

Ice caves appear and disappear each year in Alaska's retreating Mendenhall Glacier and are notoriously difficult to reach. You can take a six- to eight-hour overland trek on a dangerous, unmarked trail or you can kayak across the ice lake (only for experienced cold water paddlers) and take a shorter hike. The glacier is around 13 miles (21km) from the town of Juneau.

Grotta Palazzese, Italy

The view at Grotta Palazzese restaurant is nothing short of perfection. It’s built into a natural cave overlooking the Adriatic and the sunsets are as gorgeous as you’d imagine. Alas, there are reports of the restaurant experience not matching up to its surroundings. You can’t just grab a drink here and the cheapest meal (not including wine) will set you back around £168 ($212).

Tham Khao Luang Cave, Thailand

This huge and peaceful mountain cave temple filled with statues of Buddha is in the Phetchaburi province of central Thailand. It's only around 100 years old and was built in the reign of King Chulalongkorn. When the sun is shining, the light beams onto the stone and makes for a colourful sight. Just watch out for the pesky monkeys on the steep walk there.

Neptune’s Grotto, Italy

The Ape Cave, Washington, USA

Washington’s Ape Cave is particularly interesting because it’s essentially a tube formed by lava. There are two options when you’re exploring. The upper cave is hard work, with some scrambling involved, and is 1.5 miles (2.4km) long. If you’re not a very experienced caver, try the lower one which is a one-way route that's less than a mile (1.6km) long. One more thing: don’t touch the walls, they’re covered in ecologically important slime.

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, USA

Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico is home to the Hall of Giants. It’s 4,000 feet (1,219m) long, 625 feet (190m) wide and 350 feet (106m) high, and it's the second-largest cavern in the world. You can explore the Natural Entrance Trail and the Big Room Trail on your own, but to venture further you need to join a ranger-led tour. 

Blue Grotto, Italy

Fingal’s Cave, Scotland, UK

Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

You visit Waitomo Caves for one reason: the glowworms. You have to queue for a long time to get into the caves, but the boat trips are worth the wait, or if you're happy to get wet and climb through the caves you can explore on a rubber tube. Photos and taking videos is prohibited, so sit back and take in the luminescent light.

Batu Caves, Malaysia

Only a few miles outside of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are an important part of Malaysian history and culture. There are four caves to explore but the Temple Cave is the largest and most popular. They're also rumoured to have trapdoor spiders in them – a species that literally creates trap doors in the ground using soil – so watch your step. 

Gran Cenote, Mexico

Cenotes (pronounced 'sey-no-tes') are natural sinkholes of various sizes – some are subterranean but others are flooded with sunlight because the roofs has long since caved in. Gran Cenote is on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, a limestone landscape famous for its cenotes. Here you pay an entry fee and you can swim, snorkel or go scuba diving. It gets crowded, so come early.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA

Antelope Canyon in the Navajo Nation is the work of hundreds of years of sandstone erosion. There are two canyons to explore (Upper and Lower) and they're accessible by guided tour only. Go early to get the best photos and book your tour in advance.

Carnglaze Caverns, Cornwall, England, UK

Phraya Nakhon Cave, Thailand

Phraya Nakhon Cave in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is spectacular in its own right, but it's the little pavilion bathed in light inside which really makes it special. Want to visit? You've got quite the trek ahead of you: a boat ride, 1,450 feet (442m) of uneven and steep steps, then a slippery pathway into the cavern. Start early; the light in this beautiful cave looks best in the morning.

Vatnajökull, Iceland

A result of the geothermal heat that Iceland is famous for, the Vatnajökull ice caves are a spectacle that wouldn't look out of place on a film set. Each summer, new crystal blue ice caves are formed in Europe's largest glacier and in the winter months they can be safely explored.

Ik Kil, Mexico

Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes, Germany

Remouchamps, Belgium

Remouchamps in the province of Liège in Belgium is hiding an incredible secret. This is where you'll find the world's longest subterranean river. After a half-a-mile (0.8km) walk exploring the passageways and cathedral cavern, you'll hop in a rowboat for a peaceful trip along the water. The caves were used in the Second World War as a shelter.

Indian Echo Caverns, Pennsylvania, USA

Nerja Caves, Spain

In Spain's province of Málaga , these caves are home to famous rock paintings from the Paleolithic period (not open to the public), as well as the largest stalagmite in the world. You can visit on a self-guided tour – walk, drive or take the little 'train' from Nerja – or book an exclusive evening access tour.

Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

The world’s largest cave, Son Doong, was only discovered and first explored in 2009. If you’re lucky enough to visit the cave in remote Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, you’ll find the longest stalactites in the world, limestone cave pearls and an underground rainforest. You can visit the cave on a four-day expedition from February to August, but tours must be booked well in advance. 

Reed Flute Cave, China

The aptly named Reed Flute Cave, near Guilin in southern China, is so-called because of the reeds that grow in the area that are used to make flutes. The caverns are lit with brightly coloured rainbow lights and collectively this place is known as the 'palace of natural art'. There are inscriptions here from as far back as the Tang Dynasty (AD 792).

Now check out the most extraordinary underground hotels you can stay in

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