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Travel to Melaka

Getting to Melaka

Overview
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Malacca is a strong touristic state. Most people who visited this city felt in love with its history, attractions and local cuisine. If you decide to visit Malacca, there are several modes of transport to get to the place.

Most Malaysians and Singaporeans prefer travelling to Melaka on their own car. By travelling this way, you are in control of your own schedule. If you do not own a car, you can rent it from operators and pay a deposit besides the daily rates.

Cost from KL: The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Melaka is about 136km. The toll price is within RM35 while the fuel cost for a sedan car is about RM25 for a one way trip.

For car rental, the prices range from RM150-RM400 depending on the vehicle type and duration.

In Malaysia there are a lot of buses that have various destinations and that are frequent. It is cheap, fast and convenient for singles or non-kids couples. Most long-distant buses are cosy and all of them are air-conditioned. Melaka Sentral bus terminal is the hub for long-distant and local buses. It is about 4.5 km from Red Square.

Bus fare from KL: A one way trip ranges from RM12 to RM17.

A taxi ride from other cities to Melaka is not recommended as it is expensive due to the long distance. If you have enough money to pamper without the hassle of driving yourself, feel free to go for this option. Taxis are easily available within the city area.

Taxi fare from KL: A one way trip costs about RM200. Some taxi drivers offer chartered service where you can book them for 1 day. You’ll have to negotiate with the taxi driver about the chartered rate.

Melaka ferry jetty, named Harbour Master is situated at Taman Melaka Raya near the Maritime Museum. For visitors from Sumatra, Indonesia, getting to Melaka by ferry is the most viable option. Daily ferries are available between Melaka and 3 locations in Sumatra; namely, Bengkalis, Dumai and Pekanbaru.

Ferry Fare
Between Melaka and Dumai: RM110 (1-way) and RM170 (2-way).
Departing time from Melaka: Daily at 9am and 3pm.

Between Melaka and Bengkalis: RM50 (1-way) and RM80 (2-way).
Departing time from Melaka: Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 1pm
Departing time from Bengkalis: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30am

Between Melaka and Pekanbaru: RM120 (1-way) and RM210 (2-way)
Departing time from Melaka: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 9:30am. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9am.

Plane is an option for distant visitors or for business travelers. Malacca International Airport is located about 10 km from the city. Only limited flights are available. If you are in Subang and Pekanbaru, travelling by flights to Melaka is another option.

There are currently 3 air operators in Melaka airport. Sky Aviation and Wings Air have flights to Pekanbaru while Firefly flys to Medan in Sumatra and Subang.

If you are still thinking to travel to Melaka via train, you will be disappointed as the nearest train station, Tampin (about 38 kilometers from the Melaka city) is closed to make way for the electrified double-tracking project. Many other sources are still telling you that train is one of the transport options to Melaka, which is not true.

Malacca is a very special place that offers delicious food and original tourist attractions. It has hotels, guest houses and inns for each pocket. There are also museums, churches, temples and other attractions. Choose any kind of transport and get to Melaka!


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Wonderful Malaysia

Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Just like London’s four-faced clock tower, Malaysia has its own clock tower to boast of but with a clock on only one side, of course. Nevertheless, that doesn’t make the clock tower any inadequate but instead, the clock tower probably has more significance to shout about as it is situated beside the beautiful and historical Sultan Abdul Samad Building. The building is named after the then Sultan of Selangor when the building was constructed.

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The building is one of Kuala Lumpur’s famous landmarks found. Situated at the center of Jalan Raja, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building holds a unique design mooted by A.C. Norman. The building bears Moorish influences with a blend of local culture and British styles. To represent the identity of the Malaysian people, the architect added an Islamic touch before finally completing the building in 1897.

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Back then, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building served as an important structure for the English. It was, and still is, beautiful, iconic and was probably the most photographed building at the time. The English once used the buildings as the administration office for the government. Now, the building houses the supreme and high courts.

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The building isn’t the only attraction for just close by stands a 40m clock tower dubbed the ‘Big Ben’ of Malaysia, topped with a golden dome and flanked on both sides by two domed towers. In the eye of visitors, the chimes of the clock indicate.. well, the time. But to the locals who have stood by the country throughout its year battling foreign inhabitation, the clock’s chime is enough to bring back memories and send a tingly feeling down your body. For this very clock has marked independence at the struck of midnight on 31st August 1957. Since then, every year on the country’s anniversary of independence, the chimes represent the nation’s hope that freedom and peace will continue in the future.

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On the nights of important occasions such as Independence Day, the tower will twinkle its way to your eyes with its beautifully-colored lights. On a building that boasts such amazing architecture and designs, some have attested that the sight looks a lot like the scene of an Arabian night.

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The administrative council knows how beautiful the building is and how much people would love admiring it, so Jalan Raja is closed at nights of special celebrations to allow the public the ease of getting closer to the structure. There aren’t many of such buildings like this in Malaysia, one that shows the rich past that Malaysia and the English once shared. So do drop by the Sultan Abdul Samad Building for a dose of history and a treat for the eyes.

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Nearby attractions

Popular attractions within walking distance of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building are Merdeka Square, Chinatown (with its famous tourist market and numerous temples) and the beautiful Central Market.

Address Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Jalan Raja
Merdeka Square
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

How to get to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Getting to Sultan Abdul Samad Building is easy as it is located right in the center of Kuala Lumpur. If you are staying in Chinatown you can just walk to the building. You can also follow signposts pointing to Merdeka Square (Independance Square) which is located directly opposite the building. Every taxi driver knows the way to this iconic place in KL. You can also take the LRT to Pasar Seni station or Masjid Jamek station. In both cases it is a 5/10 minute walk to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

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Map

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Wonderful Malaysia

Wat Chayamangkalaram Thai Buddhist Temple

The Reclining Buddha is a sight to behold. ‘Reclining’ for about 33 meters in length, the massive Buddha is also a gold-plated statue. The Reclining Buddha in this Wat Chayamangkalaram is considered to be the 14th biggest reclining Buddha in the world.

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According to history, Queen Victoria has granted a land for the Thai temple to be built in 1845 and even until this day about over a hundred years later, the Thai temple still attracts throngs of devotees and visitors alike, both local and from abroad.

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With great detail in its architecture, the temple and the reclining Buddha within is definitely worth a visit. The temple opens from 6am to 5.30pm daily and the entrance is free but it is always great to donate to contribute to the upkeep of the temple. There are also books for sale here where proceeds will go towards the temple’s funds.

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This colorful Thai temple is situated just across a Burmese Temple. As you set foot into the grounds of Wat Chayamangkalaram, two ‘guards’ of two mythical dragon-headed serpents on their feet greet and welcome you into the temple. Upon looking around the temple, you will see that the temple grounds have many shrines along with brightly colored statues of Devas as well as other mythical creatures in Buddhism mythology.

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As you walk further inside the pagoda, you’ll find a gold-plated statue of the Reclining Buddha and upon walking behind the statue, you will see plenty of urns containing the ashes of devotees behind the statue. With a peaceful and smiling face, this Buddha lies on his right side with his head resting in the palm of his right hand.

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The reclining Buddha represents the historical Buddha at his death. It is said that the Buddha knew death was approaching and asked his disciples to prepare a couch for him in a grove. Having a unique blend of Chinese, Thai and Burmese architectural designs and was built in the 19th century and declared open in 1956 by Thai King Bhumipol Ayudayej, Wat Chayamangkalaram even has the 12 idols representing the animals in the Chinese zodiac. As the Reclining Buddha is simply a majestic sight, you could take a picture with the statue as visitors are given the permission for photography. Remember to take your shoes off before entering the temple and respect the monks who go about the temple with their religious duties.

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How to get to Wat Chayamangkalaram Thai Buddhist Temple

To get to the temple, there’s an easy RapidPG bus ride from the center of Georgetown. Be sure to take the one that’s heading to Burma Road (bus number 103 should take you there). Every taxi driver knows the place, but it might be difficult finding a driver that agrees on using the meter. If you are exploring Penang by rental car, you can park it directly in front of the temple. When you leave a parking guy comes to collect a few ringgits.

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Opening hours entrance fees

The temple is op daily between 6.00am and 5:30pm and the entrance is free. The best time of the day to visit the temple is early in the morning before other tourists arrive. We had a fantastic time at the temple, as we were almost the only ones there (around 7.30/8am). While you are there, you could also head to Dhammikarama, a Burmese temple just a stone’s throw away (directly opposite the Thai Temple), for another dose of learning. During Buddhist festivals like Wesak Day (in May) it is especially interesting and fun to visit both temples.

Video Wat Chayamangkalaram Thai Buddhist Temple

Map of Thai Buddhist Temple

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Wonderful Malaysia

KidZania Kuala Lumpur (The Curve)

A whole new experience that can add experience and color to a child’s life has been brought to Malaysia. Malaysian kids are now given the chance to experience ‘working life’ through a role play session which offers up to 90 real-like jobs here at Kuala Lumpur. At KidZania Kuala Lumpur, children from the age of 4 to 14 will spend their time wisely in an indoor entertainment and educational theme park which caters to the ever-curious minds of children.

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“What do you want to be when you grow up? A pilot? A newscaster? At KidZania Kuala Lumpur you can fly a plane, read the news or both! In this world, there’s over 90 things you and your friends can do.”

With the price of RM55 for MyKad holders or RM75 for non-MyKad holders, kids will be able to ‘work’ as a fireman, chef, painter, actor or even a magician. Whatever profession that you can think of, they would have it at the newly opened Kidzania, which is located directly opposite popular The Curve shopping mall at Mutiara Damansara.

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The first KidZania was built in 1996 at Mexico by Xavier Lopez with a dream to provide children a playground to have fun while participating in the real life working environment. He has a vision to create a play room that can inspire the younglings. Upon entering the ‘corporate world’, a child will be presented with a boarding pass, a map and a cheque of 50 KidZos (i.e KidZania currency). With that, he/she will then pick an occupation by learning and performing the tasks dressed in the uniform equipped with needed ‘gear’.

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Everything is surreal at KidZania. Real-life stimulation are presented to the children so that they will experience the challenges of the position, just as those faced by the adults in the job. Children can expect to be putting out a fire should they wish to be a fireman, perform surgery on a patient if they desire to be a surgeon or pilot an airplane if flying is what they want. Creating an interior design piece or even hosting a television or radio program is possible too; as mentioned, almost possible occupation thought of is available for role-playing at KidZania.

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KidZania was not set up with the intention of gearing and grooming children to be doctors, lawyers and engineers as their parents would want them to be. Instead, KidZania places its main focus on creating a fun playground with sufficient freedom for the children to develop their abilities so that they will have more insights on his/her preference and interest. It is certainly wonderful to expose the children to available opportunities; after all, it is at this young age that perceptions and interests are formed. The children’s growth and development are stimulated too through the instilling of confidence and promotion of creativity and innovation.

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Opening hours of KidZania

A spacious playroom that can cater up to 1,700 people at a time is where you’d want your kids to be. KidZania is open daily from 10am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays. On weekends, school holidays and public holidays, they are open for a longer time until 9 p.m., giving your children ample time to learn about their desired profession. KidZania is indeed something different for the kids to do, unlike the regular play centre where they would just tire themselves out running up slides and swinging about.

Mon – Fri: 10am to 5pm
Sat / Sun / Public Holidays / School Holidays: 10am to 3pm (Session 1) and 4pm to 9pm (Session 2)

Entrance fees KidZania

Baby (aged 0-1): Malaysian/Non-Malaysian (Free)
Toddler (aged 2-3): Malaysian/Non-Malaysian (RM35)
Kid (aged 4-17): Malaysian (RM55) Non-Malaysian (RM75)
Adult (aged 18-59) : Malaysian (RM35) Non-Malaysian (RM50)
Senior Citizen (aged 60 above) : Malaysian/Non-Malaysian (RM30)

Contact details address KidZania

KidZania Petaling Jaya
Curve NX
Mutiara Damansara
47810 Petaling Jaya
Tel: 1300 88 KIDZ (5439)
Fax: + 603 7839 9488
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.kidzania.com.my

How to get to KidZania

KidZania is located at the intersection between Ikea, The Curve and the big Tesco. There is ample parking space in the area (you can park easily at Ikea and cross the road, or park within the building). Every taxi driver knows the way to IPC Shopping Centre (formerly known as Ikano Power Centre). Getting a taxi back to your hotel in the city center of Kuala Lumpur might be tricky, as taxi drivers around IPC are known for charging high prices. Alternatively you can take the LRT to Kelana Jaya and take the (free) shuttle bus to IPC Shopping Centre.

Video KidZania

Map of KidZania

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Wonderful Malaysia

Lake Gardens Kuala Lumpur

Situated right smack in the city is the Lake Gardens but despite being in a central location, many have not ventured into this lovely park. Many working in the area are not even aware of its existence, which is such a shame!

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The Lake Gardens covers 91.6 hectares spanning parks and gardens. Established in 1888, the place was built around an artificial lake and many joggers and families flock there for a stroll, jog or just a fresh breath of air. There is a jogging track for the runners who can also work out at the many exercise stations along the jogging route. Families with kids in tow might favor the playground more where the kids can squeal in excitement as parents give them a gentle shove on the swing or bounce them up and down the see-saws – definitely quality family time indeed.

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If a playground sounds boring for you, get in touch with your environmentalist in you by getting to know the 3,000 over birds within a walk-in aviary in the KL Bird Park within Lake Gardens. There are even daily stage feedings and bird shows at around noon each day, so time your visit around then for some bird-fun. The admission fee to the aviary is RM45 for an adult and RM35 for children.

After a long stroll admiring the colorful feathery friends, you’d be thirsty and hungry for some refreshments. Stop at the Hornbill Café which is just next to the bird park’s main entrance. While a spotting of a hornbill is not guaranteed, the café does serve sandwiches, soups and pasta as well as a kids’ menu for the little ones who really love tea time snacks.

If you are game for more of God’s flying creations, there is the KL Butterfly Park within the Lake Gardens too which is home to 6,000 butterflies of 120 species. The park has a landscape of 15,000 plants to create a natural rain forest environment for the butterflies. If you are coming in a large party, maybe the butterfly park would be easier n your pocket as the entrance fees costs lesser than the bird park at RM18 for adults and RM8 for children. The park opens from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

If you’ve had enough of birds and butterflies fluttering around you, the beautiful orchid and hibiscus gardens would be the perfect stops for a breezy stroll. Don’t worry as there are no charges for these! If you have more time on hand, you can also explore the deer park located on the undulating slopes and valley of Kuala Lumpur lake gardens. There is also the National Monument that you can visit close to the Lake Gardens which was built in the commemoration of those who died fighting for the nation’s freedom.

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Life isn’t just all about waking up and braving the traffic to work, and braving the same traffic on the way home. On weekends, it is likely the same routine but probably battling others to get to the mall this time. Take some time out to appreciate the simpler, more beautiful things around us, which is why spending time with family or just alone at the Lake Gardens will relax your weary mind.

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A nice attraction at Lake Gardens is a fun boat ride around the lake. Besides rowing a small boat you can also rent a water bicycle. Next to the mini-jetty is a small shop that sells snacks and drinks.

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Nearby attractions

Popular attractions nearby Lake Gardens are the National Monument which lies just northwest of the park, and the National Museum and National Mosque to the east of the park.

Opening hours

The outdoor park is opened daily, and officially you are only allowed in between sunrise and sundown. Most of the attractions (Bird Park, National Planetarium and Hibiscus Park) within the park are open between 9am and 6pm.

Entrance fees

Entrance to the park is free of charge. There are fees for visiting the attractions within the park (Bird Park, Hibiscus Park, National Planetarium) and when you want to use the rowing boats or water bicycles.

Contact details address Lake Gardens

Jalan Parlimen
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: + 603 2693 4132

How to get to Lake Gardens

Take a KTM Komuter train to the Old Kuala Lumpur station. From there cross the street and walk past the National Mosque. You can also walk from KL Sentral, but this is a tricky path along the highway; the distance however is shorter. Alternatively, buses B115, B112, and B101 all stop within a 5-minute walk of Perdama Lake Gardens. Every taxi driver knows how to find the park. To get a taxi back to KL you are best off by walking to the Bird Park, as there are always taxis waiting for customers there.

Video Lake Gardens

Map of Lake Gardens

Suggestions?

Got any good tips to share with us? Do you know of any great things to do in Kuala Lumpur, or tips on the best places to eat? Let us know by leaving a reply below!

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