⛪ Batu Caves – Famous Cultural Landmark

Batu Caves is a limestone hill with a series of caves and cave temples, and is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites outside India. The main cave (Temple Cave) is a huge cavern with shrines, statues and colourful decorations.

At the base, you’ll see the 42-meter golden statue of Lord Murugan, one of the tallest statues of its kind in the world. From there, you climb 272 brightly painted steps to reach the main temple cave – a climb that has become an Instagram icon of Kuala Lumpur.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for the religious site. Scarves or sarongs may be available for rent near the entrance if needed.

Batu Caves is easy to reach from Kuala Lumpur by train, taxi or Grab. For most travellers, the KTM Komuter train is the simplest and cheapest option.

• 🚆 By KTM Komuter train: take the KTM Komuter line to Batu Caves Station. The station is just a few minutes’ walk from the main entrance.
• 🚘 By Grab / taxi: search for “Batu Caves” in the app – convenient if you’re travelling as a family or staying far from a KTM station.
• 🚌 By tour bus: many half-day tours include hotel pick-up and a short guided visit before returning to Kuala Lumpur.

Try to visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds – especially if you’re climbing the full set of steps with kids.

Costs at Batu Caves are generally very reasonable:

• ⛪ Main Temple Cave entry: Free.
• 🦇 Dark Cave tour: around 35 – 45 MYR (≈ 8 – 10 USD) per person, depending on tour type and season.
• 🎨 Cave Villa: around 15 – 20 MYR (≈ 4 – 5 USD) for art and cultural exhibits.

👉 More info about Batu Caves »

Remember to bring some cash for drinks, snacks and small donations at the temples.

• ⛪ Visit the Hindu temples: walk inside the main Temple Cave, watch rituals and learn a bit about Hindu traditions in Malaysia.
• 📸 Photo at the golden statue & steps: capture the iconic Lord Murugan statue and the 272 colorful steps.
• 🦇 Explore the Dark Cave: join a guided tour to see limestone formations, bats and an underground ecosystem. 👉 Official Dark Cave page »
• 🎨 Cave Villa: discover Indian art, paintings and cultural displays in a more relaxed, colourful setting.
• 🌿 Watch the monkeys: you’ll see many monkeys around the steps – fun for kids, but keep a distance and don’t feed them or hold food in your hands.

Wear comfortable shoes, carry water and take your time on the steps – there’s no rush, and views get better as you climb higher.

This short video shows the Murugan statue, colourful staircase and inside the main cave so you know exactly what to expect:

If you’re travelling with kids, watching the video together helps them understand the climb and the temple setting before you arrive.

• 🧭 Main Malaysia guide – 10–14 day family itinerary
• 🏙️ Petronas Twin Towers + Suria KLCC – tickets & KLCC Park
• 🌐 KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) – Sky Deck & Sky Box
• 🐠 Aquaria KLCC – tunnel aquarium under KLCC
• 🚗 Transportation in Malaysia – trains, taxis & Grab

Batu Caves Kuala Lumpur fits well as a half-day trip from Kuala Lumpur, combined with an afternoon at KLCC or KL Tower.

A visit to Batu Caves combines culture, religion, nature and a bit of adventure in one place. Between the colourful staircase, the towering Lord Murugan statue and the temples inside the caves, it’s a must-see landmark on any Kuala Lumpur itinerary.

👉 Continue planning your Malaysia trip here: Back to the Main Malaysia Guide »