KUALA KUBU BAHARU (KKB) is very much in the news right now with the upcoming by-elections expected to be a hotly contested affair, with thousands of volunteers, media and political party supporters besieging the quaint little town alongside the voters. If you are among the many making the trek to KKB this weekend, why not pack the family along for a mini-vacation by taking in the location’s many wonders.
KKB has been listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site under the Garden City Heritage category. The town was built in 1928 after floods destroyed the old district capital of Hulu Selangor. It is rich in ecotourism activities such as hiking at Bukit Kutu, trekking at Chilling Waterfall, water tubing and even mountain biking. Annual extreme sports events are held here including paragliding, mountain biking and white water rafting.
The town is also well-known for its artistic heritage with many murals adorning buildings and public spaces which tell the story of KKB since its establishment. The colourful street art is not mere graffiti as it tell the stories of the local Aboriginal communities and the “Legend of the White Crocodile”. These murals also celebrate the rich culinary heritage of KKB by including local faves such as its famous kaya puffs and Lu Mian.
Eco- and nature tourism / activities
Nature trail @ Treacher Hill (Bukit Kutu)
Treacher Hill , also known as Bukit Kutu, is a historical hill with a challenging 6.5 km hiking trail that takes you through various terrains, dense forests and river crossings. On average, it takes hikers around two to three hours to complete the ascent to the summit, which stands 1053 metres tall.
One of the unique aspects of Bukit Kutu is the presence of colonial-era ruins. These ruins are remnants of a British colonial hill station that once existed on the hill, offering a glimpse into Selangor’s past. The summit of Bukit Kutu serves as a spectacular vantage point. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding hills, forests and valleys. To all hikers planning to climb Bukit Kutu, please get a permit from the District Forest Offices.
Hiking @ Bukit Batu Pahat
Nestled close to KKB, Bukit Batu Pahat is a popular hiking spot in Hulu Selangor that does not require a permit or fees, with plenty of parking spots at Taman Tasik Millenium for travellers. Standing 426 metres from sea level, it takes one to two hours on average to reach its summit. Not only is this hiking spot well-liked among hikers, but it is also a take-off point for paragliders. Those who are interested to paraglide from Bukit Batu Pahat can make reservations through the KKB Paragliding Park (CloudBase).
White water rafting @ Sungai Selangor
Sungai Selangor is hugely popular among water sport enthusiats. Just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, this river has a rapid grade of 2-4 and will thrill hardcore water sports fanatics. This trip will also include on-river refreshments and lunch at the river lodge so you will not have to worry about preparing snacks. Enjoy the cool river and share your excitement with family and friends at this amazing adventure-tourism spot that will surely get the adrenaline pumping
Water Tubing @ Sg Chiling
If you have never tried water tubing, it is an activity where a person is supported on the water surface by a float. This laidback activity can be found at Sungai Chiling. Once the tubing is done, visitors may head to the nearby waterfall and fish sanctuary to enjoy a more relaxed environment after the ride. Families and friends can also enjoy a picnic by the riverbank whilst watching the beautiful Sungai Chiling waterfall.
Fishing @ Sungai Pertak
The Sungai Pertak River flows through an Orang Asli community and into the Selangor River Dam. Known primarily as as a fishing and camping destination for visitors from Kuala Lumpur, 4WD enthusiasts and dirt bikers also blast down the several paths that span this river. The river flows through deep pools with tiny waterfalls in intervals, with the main segment near the settlement.
The river also serves as a starting point for climbers to Bukit Kutu. This riverside tourist site may be reached by taking the main road to Kampung Pertak and then following a dirt road all the way to the end.
Accomodation
Fraser Valley, KKB
Experience “glamping” at its finest as you enjoy the great outdoors without giving up creature comforts, Fully equipped with rest rooms, shared kitchens and various other amenities, Fraser Valley offers a multitude of facilities including swimming pool and water slides. Activities include cycling tours, ATV rides and paddle boating.
The Sticks, KKB
The Sticks is a charming eco-resort tucked away in the dense jungle of KKB. It was constructed on a former tin mine site. Built with environmental sustainability in mind, the resort generates electricity via solar power, obtains water from a local stream, and was developed with little land impact.
All 12 of the unique houses, or as they fondly call them “tendoks”, a cross between a tent and a pondok (or hut in Malay), at The Sticks were designed to ensure an accommodation experience authentic to nature without sacrificing comfort. Guests can relax and enjoy moments spent lounging on a hammock under the sky, floating along the river, or dining on delicious home-cooked meals ensuring comfort during their stay.
Sarang by the Brook, KKB
Sarang by the Brook is a collection of 11 private homes in the heart of KKB’s lush tropical jungle. With its tropical garden encircling a landscaped saltwater swimming pool, Sarang by the Brook is an intimate property located just an hour from Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can experience a splendour of activities suited for all ages, from river trekking, white water rafting and even exploring the jungle at night.
Culinary
Teng Wun Bakery & Confectionery
Located in the heart of KKB, this over 40-year-old bakery is famous for its homemade kaya puff, tarts and cakes. Looking for authentic local treats, the bakery offers their seasonal durian cakes with fresh fruit sourced from from Batang Kali. Proof of the quality of the grub is the number of people who travel to KKB just to sample this cafe’s delicacies.
Yogi Cafe
Toys, toys and more toys is the theme for this kids-friendly cafe. The decor is designed to evoke a sense of fun among the young and for the not-so-young to get in touch with their inner child. This eatery is famous for its shaved ice desserts, smoothies and potent milk tea.
Kedai Makanan Hailam Sun Sun Nam Cheong
Located in the middle of KKB town, Sun Sun Nam Cheong is one of the legendary restaurants in Hulu Selangor. Known for its Mee Hailam, the restaurant has served various local and fusion delicacies for over 70 years, such as roti bakar, nasi goreng hailam, Hainanese Chicken Chop and a few others. Open every day except Monday, from 7.00am to 3.00pm, this is the best restaurant to visit for your breakfast, brunch or lunch!
Resepi Opah
Craving for authentic Malay cuisine? Stop over at Resepi Opah for a warm homecooked meal. Operating since 2018, Resepi Opah offers traditional Malay cuisines like daging salai masak lemak, curry noodles, ayam goreng berempah and more.
Events & festivals
Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu
The Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu was first introduced in 2012 to promote bird-watching activities in the vicinity. Various schools and universities have participated in a few categories such as Bird Race, Bird Photography, Bird Painting and Bird Explorace. The Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu will once again held this year on May 25–26, 2024.
Stargazing @ Selangor River Dam
Experience the magic of stargazing at the Selangor River Dam. Surrounded by hills, KKB has always been the go-to destination for stargazing activities, especially for nearby KL folk. Either spend the night for camping or observing the stars from the hill top, this place is a must visit for tourists.
Mountain Bike Challenge @ Fraser’s Hill
KKB is hugely popukar among cyclists for years as riders challenge themselves with the locale’s naturally hlily terrain. The local municipal councils has organised the King of Mountain event involving a 40km route finishing at the 1,456 metre summit of Fraser’s Hill. It is expected that the King of Mountain will be held again to further welcome tourists during the Visit Selangor Year 2025.
So do not just visit KKB for the upcoming by-election fever but do check out the many attractions above that will provide many hours of family fun. Build an almanac of memories to last a lifetime at KKB.
