From a distance, it seems
like people are walking over a rainbow. The colourful steps next to the tall
Murugan statue lead to the popular Batu caves. The first time I visited Batu
Caves in 2012, the steps weren’t colourful, but the recent art work has caught
the attention of photographers as well as travellers. Batu caves are huge
limestone hills with a few caves and a couple of shrines inside them. Dating to
more than 400 million years, these caves leave every visitor spellbound after
the steep climb.
The massive statue of Lord
Muruga, who is also referred as Subrahmanya can be seen from a distance as you
approach Batu caves. The gold coated 140 feet high statue at the base of the
caves is the tallest Muruga statue in the world. This popular tourist
attraction near Kuala Lumpur is swarmed by numerous fluttering pigeons that are
fed by the visitors.
A steep flight of 272 colourful
steps leads to the entrance of the caves. Gasping for breath after that climb, one
would find themselves transported to the neolithic age. The insides of this natural wonder are a treat for every geologist and as well as
visitors. The sunlight seeping through the holes in the ceiling, the water dripping
down from the tip of the stalactites and the pungent smell would take you back
to the pages of your geography textbook from school. The view from the entrance of the cave looks surreal with darkness engulfing the area and a beam of sunlight piercing down a huge opening, which is indeed a jaw dropping frame. The inside of the cave is as big as a football ground with natural lighting except for the ones near the shrines.
The place looks divine with minimal sound and
devotees lost in prayers. The crowd is always a mix of local Tamil Malays who come to pay obeisance, Indian tourists and western backpackers. The caves
are also known for the notorious macaques who are quick to snatch away a food
packet from visitors.
A fleet of steps further leads
to a few more shrines. However this place isn’t as dark as the first landing
area as it is open to the sky with light percolating through. Wet floors, hazy
lights, craggy walls and over grown flora makes the place absolutely surreal.
While the pilgrims head to the shrines, the travellers are mostly seen taking
photographs and gawking at the natural formation in oblivion.
This shrine is thronged by
pilgrims during the annual Thaipusam festival which is held during January-
February every year. Devotees smeared in ash, clad in yellow, carrying
decorated carriers (Kaavadi) and with body piercing head to this temple, making
the festival a huge celebration.
Other than the main cave
there are also a few more caves which are to the left of the steps. However,
due to various reasons, these caves have remained shut and aren’t accessible
anymore.
Batu
caves might seem like a tall climb initially, but the climb is a pretty moderate one and isn't a tough ask as it might seem to be. It should not take more than 15-20 minutes to reach the top. The climb is
definitely worth it as the frames atop are absolutely gorgeous with wonderful
natural formations.
How
to reach Batu Caves:
Located
in Gombak in Selangor, Batus Caves is 16 Kms away from Kuala Lumpur. The
easiest option to reach Batu Caves from Kuala Lumpur is to take a train from KL
Sentral. One can also hire a taxi from Kuala Lumpur to reach the caves.
Tips
for Travellers:
- The temple is open on all days from 6 AM to 9 PM.
- Though the caves are known for its geological formations, it is more popular as a temple and it is recommended to dress modestly.
- Do not carry any edible item or food packets in your hand while climbing the steps and inside the caves. The monkeys are sure to snatch them away.
P.S.:
I was hosted by Tourism Malaysia during my visit to Batu Caves.
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