The Batu Caves in Malaysia are one of the most important Hindu religious sites outside of India and are a must-see once you tire of shopping and wandering Kuala Lumpur. Just eight short miles north of the city, the Batu Caves are just one of the many interesting things to do around Kuala Lumpur. The caves attract around 5,000 visitors a day who come to climb the grueling 272 steps up to the caverns. The Batu Caves are a focal point for Hindu Malaysians, particularly during Thaipusam: they house a 113-year-old temple, along with an interesting array of Hindu artwork and shrines. Every year during the Hindu festival of Thaipusam, the Batu Caves attract more than a million devotees and spectators. The eight-hour procession of music and ceremony leaves offerings before a giant statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of War. What to Expect at the Batu Caves Approaching the caves, the first thing you notice is a towering golden statue of Lord Murugan. Erected in 2006, this statue is the largest in the world dedicated to the deity and stands guard to the 272 leg-burning steps that lead up to the cave entrances. As you make your way up the steps, you will undoubtedly be entertained by a tribe of monkeys that feed off the steady stream of tourists. You may take pictures, but pay attention to your belongings! Resting points along the stairs provide nice views of the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur. Some Things to Know Before Visiting the Batu Caves Admission to Batu Caves is free. The caves are open all year from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The area is not very handicap-accessible, so senior travelers may have difficulty getting up the stairs to the entrances. The wild caves are very muddy; bring a change of clothes if you plan to take any of the spelunking tours. There are stalls and restaurants offering Indian food outside the entrance of the Batu Caves. However, you should make your way back to Kuala Lumpur for better quality food at lower prices.

The Istana Negara (Malay for National Palace) is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the monarch of Malaysia. It is located along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim (formerly Jalan Duta) in Segambut, northwestern Kuala Lumpur. The palace opened in 2011 and replaced the old Istana Negara which was located at a different compound in central Kuala Lumpur. The palace complex has an area of 97.65 hectares, 22 domes, and is split into three main portions: the Formal Component, Royal Component and Administration Component. Travelers cannot enter just can takes photo from outside.