A while ago, HHWT asked locals in Malaysia if they had any recommendations for hidden gems in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. This included spots that tourists don't usually visit, eateries only frequented by locals (but served amazing food) and more! That way, the next time you're in 8 spots they high recommend, and now the next time you're in Malaysia, you can enjoy Malaysia the way the locals do.
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Attractions
1. Kuala Selangor Fireflies
An underrated landscape, Kuala Selangor is a small town in Malaysia situated where the Selangor River meets the sea. Known for its fresh seafood and hidden gems, you'd fall in love with this town in no time. Especially since it's home to a lush forest and rich mangrove system that makes it the perfect home for all sorts of creatures - including fireflies!
If you're here at night, be sure to hop onto a Fireflies boat cruise. Just imagine cruising down a river and looking up to see the sky dotted with glowing lights (fireflies!). Cool air in your face, gorgeous scenery and the quiet purr of the boat's engine moving down the river. That's exactly what you'd experience at Kuala Selangor's fireflies boat cruise.
There are 3 places to experience this exciting experience: Kampung Bukit Belimbing Firefly Park Resort, Kampung Kuantan Firefly Park and Pasir Penambang!
2. Sekinchan
Planning a trip to Sekinchan comes with the promise of a laid-back holiday. It may just be a small fishing town in Sabak Bernam, Selangor, but there are many things to do in Sekinchan for Instagrammers who love travelling off the beaten path. If you're planning to take IG Worthy photos on your next holiday, you have to visit Sekinchan!
And to help you out, check out these 8 amazing Instagram-worthy spots in Sekinchan. From paddy fields to the Sky River, your Instagram is going to look just like a travel influencer's ?
3. KL Eco Forest Park
It’s easy to be distracted by the KL Tower that you won't notice a lush forest reserve right in their front yard. Previously known as the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, the KL Forest Eco Park is where the local urbanites go for an afternoon of forest freshness?
Surrounded by modern buildings, this forest reserve is the last patch of tropical rainforest left in the city, which makes it even more special. Make the best out of your daytime visit by strolling on the canopy walk. Not only will you get a treetop view of the KL Tower, but the lucky ones can also even catch sightings of monkeys, birds, and wild insects!
4. Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman
Did you know that the Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman is one of the oldest surviving traditional Malay houses in the country? Better yet, did you know this house was originally situated in Kedah before being relocated to Kuala Lumpur? What a journey this house has been on!
This traditional home was named after its original owner who was also the village headman in Kedah. Today, you can only access the interior of the house through Badan Warisan Malaysia’s guided tour. With a minimum donation, you can catch a glimpse of the early 1900s furniture, kitchen utensils, and traditional ceramics. Stay close to their knowledgeable tour guides when they share stories of the traditions and architecture of the Old Malaya.
Delicious Food
5. Istana Lemuni, Janda Baik
You know Janda Baik for its gorgeous resorts and lush forests. But did you know about the Istana Lemuni breakfast buffet that can be found there? ?Eat next to streams and gorgeous forest as you dine in on freshly cooked Malay cuisine.
You can find any traditional local dish here. Like nasi lemak packed with banana leafs, crispy fried chicken and delicious roti canai with a side of flavourful curry, traditional dessert and of course, the most drink of the day, coffee! Apparently, it is a Malaysian thing to eat your nasi lemak with a cup of sweet teh tarik to complete the meal.
And who knows, perhaps as we eat with our eyes and with the lush view of the reserved forest, the delicious food prepared by the chefs will taste 10 times better!
Halal Status: Muslim-Owned
6. Warung Sinar Nor
According to our chats with the locals, Warung Sinar Nor's lontong and soto are a must-try while you're in Malaysia! All their meals are cooked over a wood fire (which requires an incredible amount of patience). This gives their dishes a smokey taste, enhancing the hints of pandan and coconut in their dishes! Plus, their cooking styles and recipes have not changed for over 50 years. Talk about an authentic taste of Malaysian food!
Halal Status: Muslim-Owned
7. Sambal Hijau Restaurant
After all the fun exploring hidden gems in Malaysia, chances are, you're going to be extra hungry. And if you happen to be near Kampung Sungai Penchala in Kuala Lumpur, then this is the spot to head to. Sambal Hijau Restaurant serves over 100 Malay dishes - you'll definitely be full by the end of it! Expect delicious Malay-cooked duck, chicken, ketupat and more at Sambal Hijau Restaurant!
Halal Status: Muslim-Owned
8. Draco Cafe
Credit: Syamaizan Issey Kamarudin on Facebook
Recently opened Nemesis Legion Paintball Academyis not just a spot for paintball games. It's also home to Draco Cafe, a little known cafe found in the compound. Head over to indulge in authentic Kelantanese food, tasty snacks and more!
According to local Mohd Fazril, their Sup Daging Mama is mouth-watering and will leave you craving for more ?
Halal Status: Muslim-Owned
What are you waiting for? Fireflies, lush forests, and tasty food are all just waiting for you to visit so you can experience Malaysia the way a local does! ?
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