The Kembara Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia (KCC1M) is an annual programme organised by Gaya Travel Magazine in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia’s Domestic & Marketing Division. The programme involves bringing media and travel agents on familiarisation trips to promote and uncover various Malaysian tourism destinations. For 2014, the programme kicked off by uncovering the wonders of Hulu Selangor. As such, Gaya Travel Magazine worked closely with Tourism Malaysia Selangor office in turning the programme into reality.
Located in the north of the Klang Valley, Hulu Selangor has not always been on top of travellers’ minds. Probably the sound of a sleepy town surrounded by a thick verdant forest may not be that alluring. However, KCC1M programme recently covered the destination and pleasantly found out that Hulu Selangor has so much to offer that travellers might fall in love with it in the end.
OUTDOOR
Sightseeing @ The historical town of Kuala Kubu Bharu
The town with a more relaxing vibe, Kuala Kubu Bharu or generally known as KKB, is only an hour’s drive away from Kuala Lumpur. It has vestiges from the colonial era, traditional shoplots and classic dishes, KKB is one of the places to be for travellers to relive the nostalgic old Malaya lifestyle. When being in KKB, it is recommended that travellers take a relaxing stroll around the Millennium Park; Kuala Kubu Road Old Railway Station for its old world feel; the ruins of the old KKB Police Station that was affected by the great tragic flood in 1883 due to the broken dam; and the historic Al-Hidayah Old Mosque with the inscription of the year 1926.
Paintball @ Refreshing Springs Resort
Hulu Selangor has a lot of training centres that are perfect for school camping and corporate team building programmes, and Refreshing Springs Resort is one of them. But what sets this centre apart is its outstanding nature-inspired amenities ideal for those seeking to relax and unwind in a tranquil setting of lush trees, green mountains and cool natural stream.
Besides that, the centre provides various exciting activities for its visitors including wall-climbing, fishing, jungle trekking, bird-watching, barbecue, fruit feast and paintball. We suggest that visitors try the paintball game here as they provide not only one but two war zones: one is basic while the other one is complex. Paintball first-timers would be able to learn the necessary skills by professional trainers at the basic war zone first before advancing to the more challenging war zone.
As for the rooms, they are comfortable enough for your pleasant stay. This centre is also equipped with dining halls, activity halls, fishing pond and a far-reaching durian orchard. The good news is, the durians in the orchard are free for all the visitors!
Refreshing Springs Resort Sdn. Bhd.
PT4049, Gumut Tambahan
Mukim Sungai Gumut
44100 Kalumpang, Hulu Selangor, Selangor
Website: http://www.refreshingsprings.com.my
GPS: 3.638233, 101.588860
4WD Ride @ Kalumpang Resort and Training Centre
Another popular training centre in Hulu Selangor is the Kalumpang Resort and Training Centre (KRTC). Been operating since 2004, the centre is an ideal place for short courses, camping, team building programmes or even leisure retreats. Facilities such as chalets, dormitories, a cafeteria, halls, a field and a surau are provided for guests’ convenience. KRTC has been receiving an amazing response from both locals and foreigners especially from Singapore and Korea.
The participants of KCC1M got the chance to be a little adventurous by playing extreme outdoor games such as riding on 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) and river tubing. Our favourite was definitely the 4WD since the trail traversed was challenging thus made our rides exhilarating. For the more adventurous, KRTC offers 4WD packages that allow guests to spend the night in the woods.
Other activities include jungle trekking, night walking, river crossing, treasure hunt, motor cross, flying fox, high rope and abseiling. For guests who want to do water sports, do take note that such activities are subjected to the water level. Delectable food menu is also included in the packages. The package rates start at RM86 to RM440 per pax.
Kalumpang Resort and Training Centre
Lot 426 & 427, Jalan Sg. Inki
Kampung Pasir Putih, Kalumpang
44100 Kerling, Hulu Selangor, Selangor
Phone: +6 03 6049 1969
GPS: 3.651399, 101.585598
Horse Riding @ Teratak Nalys Eco Resort and Equestrian
Teratak Nalys Eco Resort and Equestrian (TNERE) has been operating since 2010 and is able to facilitate 120 people for training basis and 500 people for camping. The resort is well known for its horse riding activity. TNERE offers guided joyrides, trail riding and riding lessons for guests.
Guided joyrides are mainly for first time riders who want to experience being on a horse. This ride is charged RM10 for two rounds in the paddock. The minimum of 3 people are required for each session.
Trail riding is only for the experienced riders who are able to handle horses on their own. The ride lasts for about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The charge is RM180 per horse and the minimum of 2 people per session are required. The riding lessons on the other hand come in a package of 10 hours of training for a price of RM850 per student. There are two riding sessions at the centre: 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Riding horses during other times may result in the horses misbehaving. Other activities provided by the resort include paintball, flying fox, archery and kayaking. The room rates start at RM160 to RM 1,360 per night while camping site rates is RM15 per pax.
Teratak Nalys Eco Resort and Equestrian
Lot 169, Jalan Hulu Tamu
Kampung Orang Asli
44300 Batang Kali, Selangor
Phone: +6 03 4106 0030 / 4162 5884, +6 013 342 3080
GPS: 3.459716, 101.650427
De-stress @ OntokOntok Chalet and Camp
Opened since 2010, this honeypot is quite popular among those who love to have a quiet time far away from the frantic city. Meaning ‘stay’ in Minangkabau language, OntokOntok is beautifully landscaped with Minangkabau-inspired structures and ambience make it an ideal venue for wedding receptions.
This four-acre property is completed with 20 rooms, a spa, an orchard, a camp site and a restaurant called CholoCholo, which means ‘peeking’ in the Minangkabau language. Every true gastronome would be pleased to taste the authentic Minangkabau dishes offered at the restaurant such as Rendang Dendeng (West Sumatra caramelised beef curry) and Gulai Rebung Madu (bamboo shoot curry).
But if fishing is more of your forte, then you will be thrilled to know that this centre allows you to fish in its impressive fishpond for free. However, every fish caught by the visitors will be charged RM10 per kilo.
When it comes to the rooms, OntokOntok charges between RM80 to RM250 per room per night. They also provide two dormitories (each could accommodate up to 20 persons), whereby each dorm costs RM250 per night. But do take note that every room in this centre is not equipped with a television as they want the visitors to fully appreciate the outdoors.
OntokOntok Chalet & Camp
Lot 2558, Kolam Air Panas Hulu Tamu
44300 Batang Kali, Selangor
Phone: +6 013 336 1512
GPS: 3.464539, 101.696947
Strawberry Picking @ Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm
Located at Gohtong Jaya, the five-acre Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm is the biggest strawberry farm in Malaysia. The land includes strawberry farm, lavender farm, hydroponic vegetables garden, mushroom growing facility, café and various shoplots that sell many selections of fresh fruits and vegetables, including processed products. The great thing about the farm is that the admission is free, except for the lavender farm that costs RM3 for an adult and RM1 for a child. After picking your chosen strawberries at the farm, do bring them to the counter for weighing. Every 100g of strawberries will be charged RM8. The farm is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Genting Strawberry Leisure Farms
No.6, Lot 3707, Jalan Jati 2
Bandar Gohtong Jaya
69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang
Phone: +6 012 485 1234
GPS: 3.398949, 101.766712
INDOOR
Art Viewing @ Hulu Selangor Art & Literature Gallery
Back in the 1980s, Kuala Kubu Bharu was popular among talented artists to gather and get inspired. However, as Kuala Lumpur rapidly developed, more and more artists choose to hang out at hip spots in the city instead of Kuala Kubu Bharu. Concerned with the situation, Malaysian Art and Literature Association decided to set up a gallery where they are not only able to showcase their artworks but also produce future Malaysian artists by organising several workshops for people of all ages every year. The gallery, called Hulu Selangor Art and Literature Gallery, is a smart partnership between Hulu Selangor District Council and Malaysian Art and Literature Association since 2007.
Hulu Selangor Art and Literature Gallery
Jalan Syed Mashor, Kuala Kubu Bharu
44000 Selangor
Phone: +6 012 620 1236
GPS: 3.566779, 101.684059
Learning History @ KKB Historical Gallery
KKB Historical Gallery, like the name suggests, is the place where travellers could discover all history relating to Kuala Kubu Bharu, from the days before the broken dam tragedy to the life after. We were lucky to have Mr. Tarmizi from Kuala Kubu Bharu Historical Society on that day to brief us personally on the story behind the tragedy. Besides that, the gallery is also the place where the participants of KCC1M Selangor learned about Bukit Kutu, once a colonial hill station called Treacher’s Hill that was bombed by the Japanese during World War II. Since the road to the top of the hill is no longer accessible, Bukit Kutu has now become a popular climbing spot among locals.
KKB Historical Gallery
Jalan Syed Mashor, Kuala Kubu Bharu
44000 Selangor
Phone: +6 017 678 7209
GPS: 3.566779, 101.684059
Insect Education @ Happy Bee Farm
Happy Bee Farm is yet another proof of how appearance can be deceiving. From the outside, the centre looks too small to house a complete bee centre let alone accommodate two more attractions: Insect World and Butterfly Wonderland. Thus, most of us thought that the visit should be finished in less than 15 minutes. However, as soon as we stepped into the centre, we were surprised at how extensive it is.
The centre has a total of 12 zones, each is well designed to give the best experience to the travellers. Here, visitors can expect to learn about the insects’ life cycle, honey production and behaviour. Entrance fees are RM20 per adult while child and senior citizen are charged at RM16 each. However, MyKad holders can enjoy up to 20% discounts on the fees.
Happy Bee Farm
Lot 6452, Genting View Resorts, KM 11-3
69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang
Phone: +6 03 6100 1000
GPS: 3.381631, 101.773548
Chocolate Crafting @ Chocolate Museum
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a chocolatier? Well now you can find out at the first Chocolate Museum in Malaysia and South East Asia. At the price of RM200, visitors of the museum will get a chance to experience the chocolate crafting process themselves. However, booking needs to be made at least a week prior to arrival to allow preparation.
The museum is divided into six sections: “Journey of Chocolate”, “Fathers of Chocolate”, “Health Benefits of Chocolate”, “Chocolate in the Industry”, “Chocolate Kitchen” and “Chocolate Galleria” where travellers can learn not only on the history of chocolate but also the production process from the scratch. Plus, chocolates sold in the Galleria are claimed to be cheaper than the usual retail market. The museum opens daily from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.
Chocolate Museum @ Kota Damansara
No. 2, Jalan Teknologi 3/5
Taman Sains Selangor 1
47810 Kota Damansara, Selangor
Phone: +603-6143 4460
GPS: 3.156274, 101.568977
ACCOMMODATION
Sri Berkat Rest House
At the peak of Fraser’s Hill, there is a beautiful Scottish-influenced bungalow set in a scenic background called Sri Berkat. Built in 1926, Sri Berkat Rest House initially served as a retreat house for the ex-armies who battled in the war. But today, the house is transformed into a neat guesthouse. Its spacious rooms are rented for the price of RM100 to RM200. However, the rates are increased during weekends. Plus, do take note that the management bans alcohol, smoking and pets in the building.
Travellers who choose to stay here should consider paying a visit to the nearest tourist attractions such as Allan’s Water, Fraser’s Hill Garden Centre and Jeriau Waterfall. Golf enthusiasts should also test their skill at the Royal Fraser’s Golf as it is said that the golf course is one of the most challenging in Malaysia. Besides, Fraser’s Hill is ideal for bird watching considering over 250 species of birds have been recorded here.
Rumah Rehat Sri Berkat
Tourism Selangor Promosi Sdn. Bhd.
Lot P7, Jalan Indah 14/12, Seksyen 14
40000 Shah Alam, Selangor
Phone: +6 03 5513 2000 /+6 016 2076 978
GPS: 3.42448, 101.44285
Eastin Hotel
Eastin Hotel is a smart choice for travellers due to its strategic location in the heart of Petaling Jaya, close to various places of interests such as Tropicana City Mall, The Curve and IKEA. It offers 387 rooms with professional ambience that are categorised into Deluxe, Family Deluxe, Executive Deluxe, Eastin Deluxe and Presidential Suite, all at reasonable prices. Besides business facilities for example meeting rooms, the hotel also comes with four food and beverage outlets that offer Japanese, Western, Chinese and fusion fare respectively.
Eastin Hotel Petaling Jaya
13, Jalan 16/11, Pusat Dagangan Seksyen 16
46350 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone: +6 03 7665 1111
GPS: 3.126282, 101.644965
COMMENTARY
‘It is definitely an eye-opening experience. I went to Hulu Selangor a lot in the past but never came across these spots before. So, I hope the authorities will improve the signages and enhance its advertising strategy so that people are more aware of these places. I, myself, will also try to promote these spots as well.”
- Mursi Abdul Rahim, My Tourism TV
“With the program like KCC1M, I got to know new products that I never knew existed in Hulu Selangor. It is exciting! And the fact that these places are not situated far away from the city, I believe everyone should at least try to experience it themselves. I certainly will promote it to my clients.”
- Puteri Idayu R. Samsudin, Inter-Orient Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
“HULU SELANGOR UNTUK SEMUA” CARD
With the aims to encourage tourism in Hulu Selangor and to boost the district’s economy, the first of its kind district card was launched in 2013 by Persatuan Peniaga-peniaga Insan Jaya Hulu Selangor in collaboration with Astute Xperience, focussing on the members of lower income group who can use it to obtain discounts on their purchases. Initially, the project was planned by the Hulu Selangor Member of Parliament, YB P. Kamalanathan, in his effort to help the locals. The card now has further been developed to become a strategy to promote the seven wonders of Hulu Selangor that include CholoCholo Restaurant, Refreshing Springs Resort, Strawberry Leisure Farms, Kalumpang Resort, Teratak Nalys Eco Resort & Equestrian, Homestay Sungai Tengi and white water rafting. The benefits of the card include exclusive discounts to more than 25,000 hotels worldwide, special entry rates to Sunway Lagoon and Bukit Merah Lake Town Resort, two years personal accident insurance coverage of up to RM5,000 from Tokio Marine and last but not least a 20% off at more than 150 shops throughout Malaysia. For more information, please visit http://www.huluselangoruntuksemua.com or contact Mr. Kannan at +6 016 250 2653.
Filed in: kcc1m / kembara cuti cuti 1Malaysia / Malaysia / selangor / Visit Malaysia Year 2014 / VMY / vmy2014