Saturday, August 22, 2009

Malacca (Melaka) Travel Tips & Information


Background of Malacca
Malacca was founded by a Sumatran prince, Parameswara, during the early 1400's. In the following centuries, it grew from a fishing village into a great cosmopolitan city. Malacca became an important port and trading centre for European and Western countries. Merchants from all over the world came to trade spices, silk and other treasures. Some even settled in this land "flowing with milk and honey". Over time, this coveted city was subject to Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Today, Malacca is an illustrious historic city - a melting pot of historical treasures and cultures.
Getting to Malacca
By air, Malacca is only accessible either from the Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru airports. However, getting to Malacca from there is easy as buses and taxis are plentiful. If you prefer to drive, Malacca is only 3 hours from Singapore and 1 1/2 hours from Kuala Lumpur.
Alternatively, you can also take the train. Tampin, the nearest railway station is only 45 minutes away.
By coach - Singapore Express daily, hourly, earliest at 8 am, latest at 5 pm, cost SG$11.00 (return is RM$11.50), station at junction of Kallang and Lavender Rd. Air-con. Tel. +65 293 5915Express Delima daily, cost SG$11.00 (return is RM$11.50), station at junction of Kallang and Lavender Rd. Air-con. Tel. +65 294 9306
Transnational daily, (3 seater per row), cost SG$15.00 (return is RM$15.00), station at junction of Kallang and Lavender Rd. Air-con. Tel. 294 7034 Getting around Malacca
The best way to discover the historical splendour of Malacca is by walking along her narrow lanes and rows of beautiful centuries old houses and shops. Another great way is to rent a trishaw. Always agree on the rates before taking the trishaw.
Places of Interest
A Famosa
The hallmark of Malacca and perhaps the most photographed subject next to the Stadhuys. Built by the Portuguese in 1511 as a fortress it sustained severe structural damage during the Dutch Invasion. The Dutch had set to destroy it but timely intervention by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1808 saved what remains of A Famosa today.
The Stadhuys
Built in 1650 as the official residence of Dutch Governors and their officers, the edifice is a fine example of Dutch architecture. Preserved in its original structure and form , it now houses the Historic Museum and Ethnography Museum. On display daily are fine traditional bridal costumes and relics from Malacca's glorious past.
Christ Church
Standing exactly as it has always been since 1753, the church is testimony to Dutch architectural ingenuity. Take note of the church's handmade pews, ceiling beams constructed without joins, Brass Bible, tombstone written in Armenian and 'Last Super' in glazed tiles.
St. Paul's Church
Built by a Portuguese Captain by the name of Duarte Coelho, the chapel was turned by the Dutch into a burial ground for their nobel dead and renamed it 'St. Paul's Church' from the Portuguese's 'Our Lady Of The Hill'. St. Francis Xavier was briefly enshrined in the open grave in 1553 before being shipped to Goa, India.
St. Francis Xavier's Church
Built in 1849, by Reverend Farve, a Frenchman, the Gothic towered church is dedicated to St. Francis Xavier is well-remembered for his missionary work spreading Catholocism to South East Asia in the 16th Century.
Cheng Hoon Teng's Temple
The oldest Chinese temple in the country. It was built in 1646 with materials shipped out of China. Fine workmanship is evident in the ornately decorated mythological figures, carvings,and lacquer work inside the temple.
The Baba and Nyonya
Heritage 'Straits Chinese' or the Baba and Nyonya , are Chinese of noble descendants that have adopted much of the Malay culture into theirs. The public can now review the heirloom unique to this heritage at private museum run by the Babas and Nyonyas of Malacca.
Dutch Graveyard
A war memorial dedicated to fine British officers and soldiers died in Naning War (1831-1832). Malaysia Youth Museum The museum is dedicated to the contribution made by the youth in the country economic and social well-being of the country. The noble efforts evident at regional, national and international levels are displayed at the museum
Proclamation Of Independence Memorial
Built in 1912, the former club house of Malacca Club now houses invaluable exhibits of the country's struggle leading to the independence.Exhibits are in the form of relics, manuscripts, video tapes, film and slides.
Hang Jebat's Mausoleum
The champion of justice who died a tragic death. Hang Jebat was unceremoniously killed by Hang Tuah in a duel of honour that lasted 3 days and 3 nights. He run amuck after suffering a fatal wound from Hang Tuah's dagger, 'Keris Taming Sari'. In the name of justice to avenge the sultan's hasty the punishment against Hang Tuah for a crime he didn't commit, Hang Jebat was accused by Hang Tuah of 'durhaka' (contumacy).
Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple
One of the first Hindu temple built in the country at the turn of the century. It was built on the plot given by the Dutch.
Kampung Kling's Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in the country with Sumatran architectural features. Instead of a conventional dome, a three tier roof rising like a pyramid is in place. A minaret peculiar in shape from a typical moorish style, is structured like a Pagoda portraying the mixture of East- West archtectural influence.
Maritime Museum
The Museum is constructed fter 'Flora De La Mar', the Portuguese ship that sank off the Coast of Malacca on its way to Portugal. With its hull laden with invaluable treasures seized from Malacca, the ship was doomed from existence had it not for the efforts to Malacca's heritage. At the museum, visitor can get a closer look at Malacca from the famed Malay Sultanate of the 14th century to the Portuguese era, the Dutch era and the British era. There are exhibits of foreign ships that had once called at the port of Malacca during the height of its maritime hegemony.
Hang Kasturi's Mausoleum
Hang Kasturi studied 'silat'(Malay martial art) under the same tutelage as Hang Tuah, Hang Jebat, Hang Lekir and Hang Lekiu. He became one of the 'hulubalangs' (knights) that served Malacca together with Hang Tuah. Except for Hang Jebat, Hang Kasturi and others remained loyal to the sultan to their dying day.
Al Azim Mosque
Al Azim Mosque is a state mosque located at Bukit Palah, 2 km from Malacca city.
Kampung Hulu Mosque Built in 1728 by Dato Shamsudin. It is the oldest mosque in Malaysia.Its unique archtectural style is not traceable to others in the country.
Tranquerah Mosque
Prominent in its architectural grandeur, the mosque is unique and bears testimony to the fact that Islam had its rightful place in Malacca almost 600 years ago. The tomb of Sultan Hussain of Johore is in the compound of the mosque. He was the ruler who signed the session of Singapore with Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819.
Malacca's Sultanate Palace
Built based on the description and reference to the palace in 'Sejarah Melayu (the Malay Annals), the wooden replica houses the Cultural Museum of Malacca. Situated at the foot of St. Paul 's Hill, it is the only Malay palace fromMalacca's glorious past built with such detail and refinement.
St. Peter's Church
Built in 1710 by the Portuguese descendants and comprising an architectural mix of the Oriental and Occidental.
Sam Po Kong Temple
Dedicated to Admiral Cheng Ho, the temple was named after a fish that miraculously saved the admiral's ship from sinking after it had been hit by a storm enroute to Malacca from China. The fish mysteriously placed itself against a damaged hull preventing the ship from taking on water.
Auyin Hill Resort
Constructed based on the philosophy of 'Feng Shui' (geomancy), the resort is one of a kind in the country. Every element has been placed relative to the principle of celestial and terrestrial positioning accuracy to enhance its charm, 'chi'(power) and prosperity.
Mini Malaysia
A stupendous theme complex to enable visitors to view the traditional houses of the 13 states of Malaysia on a single visit. The complex displays life-size authentic houses of Malaysia crafted by master builders. Each house has been furnished with corresponding elements adding ambience of originality that capture the houses in their traditional setting.
Mini ASEAN
A unique theme park conceived as the summary of prominent cultural elements of the countries that make up ASEAN i.e. Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Phillipines, Singapore and Brunei.
Recreational Forest
A serene setting of tropical forests awaits discovery. Untouched to enable visitors to truly experience a leisurely walk through a tropical haven.The trees are labelled making it fun and an educational for a quick lesson in Malaysia's rich flora and fauna. It is an ideal setting for juggle tracking, hiking, jogging and cycling. The routes are marked.
Crocodile Farm
The farm is the largest in the country. More than 100 species of crocodiles are reared here including Albino and hunchbacked. Lanscaped to create a natural environment conducive for the reptiles.
Malacca Zoo
More than 44 species of animals found in Southeast Asia and Africa amidst natural setting. Rated the best zoo in this part of the country, it is an enciting place to discover the animal kingdom at your own pace.
Ayer Keroh Lake
Ideal for exciting water sports activities such as boating and canoeing. Equipped with amenities and facilities to enable a family to enjoy relaxing moments amidst scenic environment.
Dol Said Grave
The ninth ruler of Naning who defiantly opposed the imposition of tax on the districtby the British. The Naning war, waged in 1834, made Dol Said a hero of exceptional valor that earned him a permanent place in the history of Malacca .
Gadek Hot Spring
Popular as the spa among visitors from far and wide seeking therapeutic cure for skin diseases. Handicraft shops and playgrounds have been made available to provide additional attractions for visitors. An ideal spot for family outing .
Dutch Fort
About 49 km. from Malacca city on the route to Port Dickson stands a Dutch fort built in 1757. It stands on raised ground known as Bukit Supai(Sepoy's Hill).
Hang Tuah's Mausoleum
A fully decorated admiral of Malacca's naval forces who defended successfully, countless attacks against Malacca sovereignty from Siamese and Achinise fleets. Hang Tuah's outstanding performance as a military officer made him a legend that has graced many a court and the history of Malacca.
Hang Tuah's well
Located in Kampung Duyong where Hang Tuah was born and spent his childhood among four of his good friends who would later become the famous knights of Malacca. The well is said to be the abode of his soul which takes the apparition. of a white crocodile. For a commoner to catch the glimpse of Hang Tuah is hardly likely. It is said that the holy among us can ever hope to see the apparition.
Pulau Besar
A haven for holiday makers seeking exclusive right to sandy beaches, clear blue water, the sun and the sea front chalets on stilts. The island is an excellent resort for swimming, fishing, picknicking and snorkeling.
Tun Teja's Mausoleum
The daugter of Sri Amar Di Raja Pahang convinced by Hang Tuah to marry Sultan Mahmud Shah. Died a queen in Merlimau, about 24 km. from Malacca city, while retreating with members of Malacca royal family from Portuguese attack in 1511.
Malacca Traditional House
Architecturally resplendent and signature to Malacca's 19th century artistic style. Built by a Chieftain, intricate wood carving forms the unique facade as well as the interior section of the house. Located 5 km. Southwest of Merlimau town.
Jasin's Museum
Established to uncover the facts, and the myths, behind the establishment of Jasin as one of the significant settlements of Malacca's territorial expansion. Exhibits range from historical and cultural artifacts.
Alor Gajah's Museum
Exhibits will help visitors to journey into the past and to visualise the amazing stories behind the district of Alor Gajah.
Grilled Fish spots On the shores at Serkam and Pengkalan Pernu(Umbai) some 15 km and 10 km respectively from Malacca, on the road south to Muar, visitors can pick their own fish and savour the delightful flavour of fresh grilled fish with an assortment of local dishes in a kampung or village environment.
Shopping
Jonker Street
A definite haven for antique collectors and bargain hunters. Authentic artifacts and relics, some dating as far back as 300 years, can be found among a host of interesting collectibles , each with its own history, and mystery. Jalan Hang Jebat, formerly known as Jonker Street, is known worldwide among famous antique collectors as one of the best places to hunt and bargain for antiques.
Hotels in Malacca
Hotel Melaka
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Article InformationThe information above is provided by Hotel Puri Melaka Part of the article is contributed by the following travellers: Mimi Teo, Lee.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

The Enchanting Underwater Wonders of Payar Island

Malaysia is certainly truly blessed with its abundance of magnificent islands most famous for its coral reefs and diverse marine life. With a stretch of more than hundreds of kilometres of pristine and white sandy beaches almost surrounding every part of the country, each of these islands has its own unique beauty and attraction. Beyond its golden beaches, crystal clear waters and untouched nature, its enchanting underwater beauty has fascinated underwater adventure seekers the world over and has often become the subject of awe and amazement by many travellers visiting this country.

Situated in the north of the Straits of Malacca, nearby Kuala Kedah and 30 kilometres away from its closest neighbour, Langkawi Island, Payar Island is known as the country’s first and only reef platform. Priding itself for having the largest collection of coral species in the country, Payar Island in Kedah makes one of the best diving sites in the West Coast of the Peninsular.


Payar Island Marine Park

Payar Island which comprises of three other smaller islands, Kaca Island, Lembu Island and Segantang Island, was declared the first marine park in the country in 1985. After years of experiencing over fishing, trawling and other illegal fishing activities that threaten to endanger marine life and vegetation, the underwater inhabitants of the island has since rejuvenated and continues to flourish till this day.


Stretching across 200 meters of golden sandy beaches, the waters surrounding the island are shallow making it suitable for swimming, diving and snorkelling activities. Its crystal clear waters offer divers 30 to 50 feet of visibility ensuring a satisfactory exploration of the underwater life. Each year, the island attracts divers and marine life experts from all over the world. Though the island has long been popular among visitors since the early seventies, it was only in the nineties that the park began to be more equipped with basic facilities to cater to the increasing number of tourists visiting the island.


Treasures of the sea

The best area to begin your snorkelling adventure would be at the ‘Coral Gardens’, located at the south western edge of the islands. In perfect sea conditions, the ‘Coral Garden’ promises a spectacular sight of the sea covered almost entirely in soft corals in a wide spectrum of vibrant colours and shoals of colourful tropical fishes swimming by.

This site is also famous for spotting giant groupers, fusiliers; groups of horse jacks, schools of big eyed snappers; a variety of dacyllus, young black-tip sharks, spotter and brown moray eels, lionfish, black-spotted puffers, butterflyfish, angelfish, anemonefish, sea urchins, seastars, barrel sponges, sea cucumbers and many other species of marine life.

If you’re not much of a snorkelling enthusiast, then you will still be able to enjoy the underwater life without having to get wet in the process! Moored of the island, a large floating platform called the ‘Langkawi Coral’ offers visitors panoramic views of the beautiful treasures under the sea. In a depth of more than 10 feet below the sea, the tunnel like chamber built at the bottom of the platform known as the ‘Underwater Observation Chamber’ is the closest encounter visitors can get to experience the underwater world.

Glass-bottom boat rides are also offered to visitors on the platform who would like to experience certain sites around the infamous ‘Coral Gardens’. Equipped with a dining area, snack bar, and deck for sunbathing, the Langkawi Coral also has a platform for those interested to pursue an introductory course in scuba diving as well as a wading deck for swimming and beginner snorkellers.


Getting there

Since Payar Island and all the other smaller islands nearby are uninhabited, there are no accommodations available for visitors wanting to stay longer than a day trip. Therefore the only option available for visitors to the island is a one day trip which can be arranged by local tour operators stationed at the Kuah Ferry terminal in Langkawi Island, Kuala Kedah and Penang. The boat ride from Kuah and Kuala Kedah takes about 45 minutes while the boat ride from Penang takes a little over an hour.

The average cost for a day trip to the island is around RM200 which would normally include a boat transfer to the island in an air conditioned speed boat, packed lunch and all the snorkelling gear and other equipment you may need during your trip. The whole trip usually begins as early as 9am till as late as 5pm. For those who are slightly more adventurous and enjoy confrontation with nature, camping is allowed on the island with prior approval from the Fisheries Department in Alor Setar, Kedah’s capital city. Otherwise, visitors have nothing to worry about as Langkawi Island and Penang is merely a boat ride away offering comfortable hotels and resorts readily made available to accommodate tourists.

Book Langkawi Hotels here
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Article Information
This article was written by Pollyanna G. Joseph and was first published on 29 January 2007. This article is free for personal and commercial reproduction, with the following terms and conditions.

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Tioman Island, Pahang


About 56km off the coast of Pahang lies Tioman Island, an alluring holiday paradise in the South China Sea. Acclaimed as one of the best island getaways in the world, Tioman was the location of the Hollywood musical, 'South Pacific' in 1959.
According to legend, this island is the final resting place of a mythical dragon princess. The warm waters and good visibility make Tioman a paradise for divers.
Discover astounding sights such as colourful Gorgonian sea fans, Staghorn corals, nudibranchs and beautifully sculptured sea sponges. Snorkellers can delight in swimming alongside huge Napoleon Wrasse, Golden Striped Trevally, Bumphead Parrotfish and shoals of Fusiliers.
This island is an idyllic spot for leisurely days under the sun. Swim in its emerald waters, enjoy a stroll by the beach or be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves. There are several villages scattered around the coastline, the larger ones being Salang, Tekek, Genting, Paya and Juara.
Each village offers a different and unique atmosphere. Tioman's verdant greenery is home to a splendid variety of plants and small animals, including butterflies, monitor lizards, deer and monkeys. Its flora and fauna have been featured in National Geographic's documentaries.
The island's granite formations make for excellent rock-climbing expeditions. The more adventurous can attempt to scale the sheer cliff face of the legendary Gunung Nenek Semukut or Dragons Horns. Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort offers a luxurious stay amidst a backdrop of rolling hills and scenic views.
Key Tips
If you like hiking, you should try the beautiful cross-island hike from the village of Tekek on the west to Juara on the east. It can be done in an easy day and takes in both jungle and beach views of both sides of Tioman.
How to get there
By Road
Access the Tebrau Highway from Johor Bahru and go to Mersing via Kota Tinggi. Access the Karak Highway from Kuala Lumpur through Temerloh, Kuantan, Pekan, Kuala Rompin,Tanjung Gemuk to Mersing.
Alternatively take the PLUS Highway from Kuala Lumpur via Seremban, Bahau, Muadzam Shah, Kuala Rompin, Tanjung Gemuk to Mersing.
By Public Transport
Express buses are available from Singapore at Newton Circus Court and Jalan Sultan Bus Station. From Kuala Lumpur, buses and taxis are available at Puduraya Bus Station. Buses leave at noon and 11.30 pm while taxis leave at any time. Estimated travel time 5-6 hours.
By Sea
Tioman is accessible by boat from Tanjung Gemok in Pahang and Mersing in Johor. Journey time is approximately 1.5 hours. It can also be reached by a 4-hour ferry ride from the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore.
By Air
Berjaya Air operates daily direct 45-minute flights to Tioman from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Accommodation Overview
A wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels. Most of these can be found on the island's west coast.
SOURCE: TOURISM MALAYSIA

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This article is free for personal and commercial reproduction, with the following terms and conditions.

Saturday, August 8, 2009

Kuching - The Eye of Sarawak

Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak, has many things to offer to its visitors. There’s an experience to be had for everyone, young or old. From shopping to gastronomic experience, to nature and history. The name of the city, Kuching, is thought to derive from the Malay word kucing which means cat or from the Chinese word for port which is pronounced as cochin. Others also claimed that it might have been named after a lychee-like fruit called Mata Kuching or Cat’s Eye, which was a popular trade item of the city.

Getting around

There are many ways to get around in Kuching. The public transportations such as buses and taxis are efficient and are in abundance. Apart from that tourists in Kuching can also experience a more scenic view of the town by taking a ride in boat shuttles that takes passengers to various points across the river. For tourists who are staying in hotels, there’s the free City Tram that will take its passengers to the major sights once in every hour. Walking around in the city is also another alternative, as most of the streets are pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined sidewalks. For those who prefer to do their own driving and exploring of the city, there’s the car rental services which has a selection of cars for rent, provided that the person has a valid driving licence.

Museums & Historical Buildings

There are many things to explore in Kuching. For those who are interested in the local history of the city, there are clusters of museums and historical building to visit.

Sarawak Museum
This museum is considered to have the best collection within Southeast Asia and it houses one of the best ethnographic collections. The old wing, designed as a Normandy town-house, first opened its doors in 1891. Located on Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, the grounds of the museum also houses the Aquarium, the Heroes’ Memorial and the Botanical Gardens. Open daily from 9.00am to 6.00pm.

Islamic Museum
The Islamic Museum houses seven galleries exhibiting Islamic artefacts and is the first Islamic Museum ever built in Southeast Asia. The building which houses the museum is the actual Maderasah Melayu Building which has been beautifully restored to its form now. Located on Jalan P. Ramlee, this museum is also accessible from the rear of the new wing of the Sarawak Museum. Open daily from 9.00am to 6.00pm.

Chinese History Museum
Located on the waterfront opposite the Tua Pek Kong Temple, this museum houses the exhibits on Chinese Migration, their early trade routes and trading activities. It also traces the history of the Chinese community is Sarawak. Open daily from 9.00am to 6.00pm.

Cat Museum
This is cat lovers’ paradise, the first museum in the world to dedicate its exhibit to all things feline, from feline art, photos to souvenirs. The museum is located in Petra Jaya and is open daily from 9.00am to 5.00pm. (closed on Public Holiday)

The Astana
Built by Charles Brooke in 1870 as a bridal gift for his wife Ranee Margaret, the majestic looking Astana consist of three separate building which is fused into one. Situated across the north bank of the river, opposite the waterfront, this historical landmark however is not opened to the general public as it is now an official residence of the Governor of Sarawak.

Fort Margherita
Named after Charles Brooke’s wife Ranee Margaret, this building was built in 1879. Strategically located along the Sarawak River, it was built to overlook the stretch of river approaching Kuching, to guard it from pirates. Now the building houses the Police Museums. To enter the museum, as it is located within the Police Training Barracks, visitors might need to present some form of identification.

The Square Tower
Built in 1879 as a fortress, the building now is used as the multimedia information centre and video theatre, providing information on Sarawak’s tourist attractions.

Round Tower
Constructed as a fort in 1886, the Round Tower then was used as a dispensary. Restored in 2003, to its current form it is now currently being used as the Sarawak Tourism Complex, which houses the Visitor Information Centre.

Shopping

For those who love shopping, there are many things that you can get from Kuching, from buying small souvenir items to buying antiques. There’s a row of shops at the waterfront , known as Main Baazar street, where you can buy souvenir items like the handcrafted wooden mask or bowls, textiles, bemban (reed) baskets, rattan mats and terendak hats among many other arts and crafts. In between shopping, visitors can rest their feet and enjoy a cup of coffee at some of the old-fashioned coffee shops.

Food
For those who enjoy good food, Kuching has a fair share to offer. The Sarawak Laksa, the state’s signature dish is something that is not to be missed. Made of thin rice noodle (vermicelli) submerged in rich gravy that is made of prawn paste, lemongrass, coconut milk, tamarind, topped with generous toppings of bean sprouts, chicken and omelette strips, is best served piping hot.

Among other signature dishes that are not to be missed, are the Kolo Mee, Manok Pansoh, Bubur Pedas and Ambal or Bamboo Clam.

Cultural Experience

For a first time visitor to Kuching or even to Sarawak for that matter, one should not miss the opportunity to go to the Sarawak Cultural Village which is situated approximately 35km or 40 minutes drive away from Kuching town. Located at the foothills of the legendary Mount Santubong, the visit to the cultural village will usually sum up the cultural experience that one will need when visiting Sarawak, should you have limited time to stay in Sarawak. The 14 acres living museum showcases the heritage of the major racial groups in Sarawak. Here one will be able to see ethnic diversity, from the types of abode that they live in, to the different forms of dance
and handicrafts that each racial group produces.

Visitors to the Sarawak Cultural Village will get the opportunity to visit the Bidayuh Longhouse, Iban Longhouse, Penan Hut, Orang Ulu Longhouse, Melanau Tall House, Malay House and Chinese Farmhouse and also participate in some of the activities that each house offers. Also not to be missed is the 45 minutes cultural performance of songs, dances and entertainment.

Once a year the Sarawak Cultural Village will also play host to the Rainforest World Music Festival. This 3-day event will see renowned world musicians from all continents and people from all around the world gathering to enjoy ethnic music and indigenous culture of the world amidst the lush of the rainforest and the serenity of nature.

To sum it all up, Kuching is a city that has a lot to offer to its visitors and is an experience to be had. The colourful city and people makes Kuching a destination that you would want to come back to.

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Article Information
This article was written by Rozila Wong and was first published on 19 January 2007. This article is free for personal and commercial reproduction, with the following terms and conditions.
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Friday, August 7, 2009

Celebrating Thaipusam at Batu Caves

Once a year, Batu Caves will see hundreds of thousands of devotees who will come to serve their penance in Batu Caves on Thaipusam Day. In 2006, there were approximately 1.5 million devotees and visitors who came, to one of the largest Thaipusam celebration in the world.

The Discovery

Batu Caves was discovered by an American Naturalist, William Hornaday in 1878. Although to the ‘orang asli’ (local tribes), the impenetrable jungle surrounding Kuala Lumpur is basically where they would hunt for their food and medicinal herbs, to most, the jungle remains an unbeaten track. During his hunting expedition around the same jungle, he noticed a strong stench. Intrigued by the strong smell, he had asked his guides, several local tribesmen known as the ‘Jakun’ and a Malay man, to lead him to the source of the smell. They led him to a cave, the source of the strong stench of guano, a cave where they have always used as a shelter.

Struck by the enormous magnitude of the cave, he compared the cave to the likes of a grand cathedral, with the gallery and gothic roof, and that of the end of the gallery, where the roof rose as high as 100 feet, to that of the St Peter’s Cathedral in Rome.

It was later turned into a place of worship, in 1891 by an influential descendent of Indian immigrant, K. Thambusamy Pillai, who installed the murti (Sacred Statue) of Sri Subramania Swamy in the Temple Cave.

Lord Murugan, The Emancipator

Thaipusam celebrates the birthday of Lord Murugan (Subramania), the youngest son of Shiva and Parvati, a manifestation of beauty, youth, masculinity, valour and vitality. It also celebrates the struggle between good and evil, the day Lord Murugan vanquished the evil demon Soorapadman with the Golden Vel (lance) that was given by his mother Parvati. It falls on the tenth month of the Tamil Hindu calendar, which is called Thai and the word Pusam refers to the star that is shining the brightest during that period.

The Day of Penance

Several years ago I was lucky enough to have witnessed the splendour of Thaipusam, on the eve of the actual day. It was quite an experience, to see all around you, devotees who, with the support of their family and friends, making the pilgrimage towards the Temple Cave, where they will fulfil their vows made for the year. You can see, sea of humans trudging up the steps to complete their vows and for some, to bear witness this magnificent annual event.

The procession of the jewelled chariot containing the statue of Lord Murugan would start early in the morning, as early as 4.00 am on the eve of Thaipusam. Devotees would walk from Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, which is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, where the Statue is kept throughout the year and would only be taken out during these few days. The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is the first temple that was built in Kuala Lumpur in 1873. Indian immigrants who travel from their motherland would bring along with them the Divine Mother, Sri Maha Mariamman and her son Sri Subramania to be worshipped and prayed to, for protection, hence the name given to the temple, Sri Maha Mariamman. The walk would take approximately 8 hours to reach Batu Caves. Once there, the devotees would carry the Statue up the 272 steps to where it will then be placed at the Shrine.

In order to serve the penance and to be able to do their offering, the devotees would have to go through an act of cleansing, spiritually and physically. They would fast, recite prayers, abstain from carnal needs and lead simple life approximately 30 to 40 days prior to the actual day. The penance would take in the form of carrying kavadis (which literally would mean burden) which may be in the form of a pot of milk, mortification of the human flesh, by piercing the flesh with a vel skewer or the most spectacular would be the ‘Vel Kavadi’, which is basically an altar that has the Lord Murugan’s idol and a pot or a jug of milk. The kavadi would be placed atop of the devotee’s shoulder and chains that are dropped from the central body of the kavadi would be attached to the devotee by vels that are hooked on to their chest and back. The Vel Kavadi could be as tall as 2 metres.

On the eve of the Thaipusam, devotees who have made their vows, would walk along with the procession of the jewelled chariot of Lord Murugan from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple to Batu Caves. Once they have reached Batu Caves, they would have to be bathed and cleansed by the priests (Swami) at the nearby river. Once cleansed, the devotees would be brought into a state of trance, so they can be lanced or skewered without feeling the pain.

Family and friends will guide the kavadi bearers up the 272 steps of Batu Caves to go to the Temple Cave, some using drum beats and flutes as a driving rhythm while others hear the shouts of ‘vel, vel, vetri vel’. Once they have reached the top, they would make their way in the Temple Cave towards the Shrine of Lord Murugan. Here the kavadi bearer will take the pot of milk and pour it over the Golden Vel, offering prayers to the Deity. Once they have completed this, the Swami or priest will sprinkle holy ashes over the vels and skewers that are attached to the chest and back. The kavadi will be lifted off the shoulder of the bearer after which the Swami will remove all the hooks and skewers, and bring the bearer out of his or her trance. With the vow fulfilled, elated faces can be seen among family members, friends and even on lookers.

The Attraction

Batu Caves has a series of chambers that are fascinating. At the foot of the stairs, there is the Art Gallery Cave where you will find an interesting gallery which showcases the statues and paintings of the Hindu Gods and Goddesses and the mythologies. There are also paintings that depict the epic of Ramayana.

The Temple Cave also known as the Cathedral Cave is the main gallery which houses the Shrine where Lord Murugan’s idol will be placed during Thaipusam. The limestone cavern is 400 metres in length and the height of the roof of the gallery is approximately 100 metres. This is where the American Naturalist who discovered the caves has compared it to St Peter’s Cathedral, colossal and full of majestic structures designed by Mother Nature.

Apart from that, for those who are caving enthusiasts, Batu Caves is also a good location to explore the beauty of the cave, to view the grandeur of the formation of stalagmites and stalactites and Mother Nature’s work of art. The two kilometre network of untouched chambers is also host to some of nature’s most unique eco-system. In order to visit the Dark Cave, visitors would have to seek permission and guidelines from Malaysian Nature Society (MNS). MNS also conduct educational and adventure tours to the Dark Caves and you would have to book in advance to guarantee a place in these tours.

The latest attraction to Batu Caves would be the statue of Lord Murugan, which stood as high as 42.7 metres tall. The statue which was revealed on 29 January 2006, cost RM2.5 million and is made of 1,550 cubic metres of concrete, 250 tonnes of steel bars and 300 litres of gold paint, brought in from Thailand. The statue which took 3 years to complete was built by 15 Indian sculptors.

Other attractions

Batu Caves may be known as a holy site for most people. The name Batu Caves is synonymous with the Thaipusam celebration, not only for people in Malaysia but to many people around the world as well. Though it is well known for this, Batu Caves is also known to rock climbing enthusiasts as a favourite spot as there are over 160 climbing routes.

Even though Thaipusam is celebrated once a year, Batu Caves is opened to receive over 3,500 to 5,000 tourists and visitors, daily. There will still be some prayers held daily at the temple, so tourists can also participate in some of the prayers or also pay respect to the

The place is serene, but visitors might also encounter some wild life as there is a large population of the long-tail macaque monkeys at the surrounding area. Visitors are allowed to buy some peanuts to feed these monkeys but are advised to practice caution as the monkeys can become aggressive.

How to get to Batu Caves

Batu Caves is located 13 kilometres North of Kuala Lumpur City Centre. You can drive to Batu Caves, an approximate half an hour to forty five minutes drive from the City Centre. You can also take a cab to Batu Caves or alternatively, you can take a bus no 11D from Bangkok Bank bust stop, which is behind the Central Market.


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Article Information
This article was written by Rozila Wong and was first published on 30 January 2007. This article is free for personal and commercial reproduction, with the following terms and conditions.
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