Home to picturesque waterfalls, hiking trails and recreational facilities, Rawang is one of the earliest satellite towns of Kuala Lumpur. It was founded in 1825 on the back of tin mining explorations and was the location of the Battle of Rawang in 1871. In 1894, it became the first place to be electrified in Malaysia.
Things to do in Rawang
On the eastern edge of Rawang is the Kanching Falls, which cascades over seven tiers into a pool below. Adjacent lies the Commonwealth Forest Park Falls, with an easy hiking trail following its gentle river to a photogenic cascade. Further north is the Serendah Recreational Waterfall, which is a popular setting for swimming and picnics.
Rawang makes a convenient base for exploring the Batu Caves, which is one of the most-visited Hindu shrines outside of India. It inhabits a limestone hill associated with Si Tenggang, a Southeast Asian folktale about an ungrateful son whose cursed ship transforms into a stone hill. Admire the towering golden statue of Lord Murugan and climb the tall staircase that leads to the Temple Cave while keeping an eye out for macaques.
If you’re a keen golfer, you can book a round at the Bukit Beruntung Golf and Country Club, which is located in the far north of Rawang. Established in 1993, it features one of the most challenging 18-hole golf courses in the state of Selangor. You can book a lesson with a resident pro or browse the latest golfing apparel and accessories at the pro shop before relaxing on the restaurant terrace overlooking the greens.
Getting around Rawang
Rawang is around 45 minutes’ drive from Kuala Lumpur and just over an hour from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Regular trains connect to the Rawang railway station and buses travel throughout the town.