Nicknamed the “Green Belt” of Malacca, Ayer Keroh is a lush, forested region, packed with natural and wildlife attractions. It centres around an old Malacca town, featuring a lavish Sultanate Palace, together with Chinese, Indian and Portuguese cultural enclaves.
Things to do in Ayer Keroh
For a taste of traditional Malay architecture, head to the Mini Malaysia & ASEAN Cultural Park where replicas of houses from each of the country’s 13 states have been built. They are decorated with traditional furnishings and artwork, and it’s a great place to learn the Malay game of congkak or test your skills on an Iban blowpipe.
To experience Ayer Keroh's natural beauty, why not visit the Butterfly & Reptile Sanctuary which is set within 11 hectares of jungle. Be surrounded by colourful butterflies, get up close to snakes and crocodiles, and wander through its beautiful Koi River Valley.
Bird lovers should head straight to the Melaka Bird Park to explore the largest collection of Malaysian bird species in the world, while green thumbs will enjoy a day at the Melaka Botanical Gardens with its giant stone carvings of prehistoric animals. Other family-friendly attractions include the Malacca Planetarium Adventure Science Centre where you can delve into the world of astronomy and the Melaka Wonderland Theme Park & Resort with its thrilling rides and water slides.
Are you a fan of honey? Then sample it at its purest at the World’s Bees Museum which showcases hundreds of different beehives and hornets nests. For a more cultural experience, visit the Museum of Aborigines to browse exhibits on the traditional lifestyles of Malacca’s native tribes.
Getting around Ayer Keroh
Ayer Keroh is around two hours’drive south of Kuala Lumpur or three hours’ drive north-west of Singapore. To explore everything the region has to offer, a private vehicle or scheduled tour are the best options.