Everything You Need To Know Before You Visit Batu Caves

If you’re heading to Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves should definitely be on your bucket list - a highlight for any traveler venturing to the city. The caves themselves have been around for over 400 million years and the mouth of the cave was said to look like the head of a spear, so the caves were dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of war. 

Hence the HUGE Lord Murugan statue that guards the entrance. The series of caves that run through the limestone mountain are filled with more incredible shrines to the Gods. Once you pass the statue, be prepared to make the climb up 272 colorful stairs - and watch out for the monkeys! Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

Arrive early and check the sunrise time

Get setting those early alarms! The walk up to the Batu Caves actually isn’t that bad, but don’t make it harder for yourself by having to compete with crowds and the blaring sun. 

We would suggest getting there early, but not too early. You don’t want to be making the climb in the dark. 

Around 7:30am is probably best but do check what time sunrise will be on the day you are planning to go.

Follow the dress code

If you’ve been to pretty much any other religious temple in the world, you’ll be aware that there is usually a modest dress code in place. 

When you arrive at Batu Caves there will be members of staff scanning the crowd to make sure this is adhered to. 

This means a long skirt or pants for women, and make sure your shoulders are covered. For the guys a t shirt and shorts or long pants will be fine. 

Don’t worry if you do arrive in the wrong clothing though - you can rent a sarong there for less than one dollar.

Be aware of the stairs

Remember that there are 272 steps to climb to enter the caves - in reality it’s not that much but this depends on your age and fitness level! 

The climb is not advised for anyone with heart problems, so know your limits.

Watch out for monkeys

The Batu caves are home to a few packs of monkeys. These guys won’t harm you but they do have a bit of a reputation for grabbing phones and bags away from people so just be sure to keep an eye on your belongings!

Respect the religion

It’s important to remember that this is a place of culture and religion, not just a tourist attraction. 

Every day hundreds of people make the trip up the Batu Caves to pay their respects and make offerings. You will see people carrying their offerings dressed in traditional clothing. 

Be respectful and try not to disrupt their years-old tradition!

Other useful tips:

• Admission to Batu Caves is free

• The caves are open all year round from 7am to 7pm

• The area is not very handicap-accessible, so do bear this in mind

• There are many food stalls and restaurants outside the entrance to the Batu Caves, but they are slightly pricier than elsewhere in KL

• Do bring your own drinking water

Other than that, enjoy this amazing opportunity to see such a stunning place of cultural importance!