Visiting Kuala Lumpur from Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT) and 6 Things to do in Klang

Too many times I have seen the disappointment on cruise guests face when they reach the exit of the Port Klang Terminal. Although Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT) is a fully equipped port to handle the most international cruise liners, the port is in an industrial setting which means it is far from the sights of shopping streets and recreational vendors. Just when you thought you have the Grab e-hailing app can come to the rescue, engaging one from the PCKT can be quite unconvincing. 

Kuala Lumpur is approximately 60km from PKCT and usually takes an hour's drive.

The nearest mall, Aeon Mall Bukit Tinggi is approximately 16km and usually takes a 30-min drive.

For guests who did not book a tour from the cruise, you can:

1. Take the PKCT Taxi to KL attractions.

Find for a taxi stand which also offers packages to Kuala Lumpur's attractions. 

2. Take the shuttle bus to Aeon Mall Bukit Tinggi and hire and e-hailing from there.

It would be easier to hire an e-hailing transport from commercial area. 

What to do in Klang

For those who wants the same cultural and food experience without going to KL, welcome to Klang! Infact, Klang is one of the older settlement in the region compared to Klang and rich in history.

You can explore this on your own or have a guide to take care of the visit for you with stories and photo assistance provided. Whatsapp Klang Guide

1. Have a Hainanese breakfast/ meal

When in Klang, dive into the local food scene with a Hainanese cuisine. Try the local coffee and the kaya (coconut jam) which will definitely pump up the energy for the rest of your visits. While you are at it, try the national dish, nasi lemak (coconut milk rice dish).

One of the Hainanese coffee shops in Klang that locals frequent

The perfect Hainanese breakfast set. Do you know the stories behind these food?

2. Cultural Story House- Rumah Papan Pandamaran

After breakfast, visit the Ruman Papan Pandamaran (Wooden House of Pandamaran)

A cultural storyboard

Experience the local vibe of Klang

Five stones- a traditional Malay game all Malaysians caught on

Local products available there too

Nutritious but rare gac fruit

3. Kuan Tien Keng Temple, Klang

Just across Rumah Papan Pandamaran is a Taoist temple which functions as both spiritual and social institution. 

Taoist temple Kuan Tien Keng

Admire the depth of the temple's interior

4. Chinese Muslim Jamek Mosque

Wake a walk into its peaceful courtyard and whisk yourself away to China in Malaysian weather. Instead of Arab domes and pillars that we usually see in Malaysia, this mosque is not shy to be Chinese. Marvel at the tranquility and beauty of this Xi'an inspired grey structure.

Be reminded to be modestly clothes which means having a headscarf and covering your neck, arms and legs. The mosque will gladly lend you a robe and headscarf if you are not dressed accordingly.

Beautiful Chinese muslim mosque

Interior inspired by Chinese design

The moon tower

Admirable caligraphy

5. Little India, Jalan Tengku Kelana

After China, immerse yourself in the colourful world of India! Deemed the most authentic version of South Indian culture in Malaysia, awe at the fabrics, food and shinny intricates as you walk through the historical corridors of Indian traders who became settlers in Malaysia. 

The bustling Tengku Kelana street is the go-to area of anything of the Indian tradition and culture

Masjid India Muslim Tengku Kelana Indian Mosque

Tengku Kelana flower lane is fragrant with all sorts of blooms

Indian snacks

Indian accessories

Do you know the function of the 'bindi'

Indian steelware

6. Banana Leaf Rice and Indian Sweets

While we are at it, why not have a go at the lip smacking, literally finger licking good banana leaf rice! Remember to sweeten up with some Indian candies!

Finger licking banana leaf rice

Do you know every dish of the banana leaf rice?

Indian sweets

Remember to try the Malaysian teh tarik (pulled tea)

ENJOY KLANG!

Top 9 Best Historical Places in Selangor to Visit

August and September are the months for Malaysians to remember the history of Malaysia. It is good for visitors to visit places with historical concepts and take lessons from various stories and past events as guidance towards a more harmonious life. There are many historical places in the Districts of Kuala Langat, Klang, Kuala Selangor, Hulu Langat and Hulu Selangor. Take the opportunity to visit the historical places in Selangor with your family and friends. 

Istana Bandar Jugra

1) ISTANA BANDAR JUGRA, KUALA LANGAT
Originally, Istana Bandar was the Administration Centre of the Selangor Government for more than 100 years. Almost all castle structures are made of brick and lime, the doors and stairs are made of cengal wood. The design of the building is a mix of local art and British colonial art. Now Istana Bandar is used as a Royal Gallery or living museum to be visited by tourists and used as a study center for the Quran by the Malaysian Islamic Organization. Admission is free and is open daily.

For more information, email: info@heritage.gov.my

Bukit Melawati

2) BUKIT MALAWATI, KUALA SELANGOR
Bukit Malawati was the war headquarters during the administration of the Sultanate of Selangor Sultanate in the 18th century where there were fights between the Dutch and Johor and Riau. The journey takes 1 hour from Shah Alam to reach Bukit Malawati and you can enjoy the mesmerizing scenery of Kuala Selangor at sunrise and sunset. Apart from that, you may find friendly “Silver Leafed” monkeys where visitors can actually feed them. There is also a tram service available to visitors on weekends. Admission is free and the fee for the tram ride at Bukit Malawati is only RM3 for adults and RM2 for children (3-12 years old). The operation hour is from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm on weekends and public holidays only. 

For more information, email: ydp@mdks.gov.my (Kuala Selangor District Council)

Bandar Diraja Klang

3) ROYAL KLANG TOWN, KLANG
Known as one of the oldest cities in Malaysia, Klang is rich in history, traditions and customs. The city originated on the south bank of the Klang River, which was known around the world for producing tin as early as the 15th century. Klang became the capital of the Government before being transferred to Kuala Lumpur. Tourism Selangor has also introduced the Royal Klang Town Heritage Walk Tour Programme. The uniqueness of the Royal Klang Town can be experienced with visits to historical buildings and various shop lots where fortune telling services, paintings, Indian textiles weaving and many more can be found. Apart from that, visitors can also shop for handicrafts at Jalan Tengku Kelana or also known as the Little India. Along the way visitors can also interact directly with the Klang community of various religions and races who are friendly and welcoming.
For more information, email: product@tourismselangor.my (Selangor Tourism District
Council)

Pantai Morib

4) MORIB BEACH, KUALA LANGAT
The 3 km-long beach overlooking the Straits of Melaka, is an important historical site in the past. In 1945, this beach was a symbol of the arrival of the British army during World War 2 to occupy Malaya and became a stronghold of the Japanese assault which signified the end of the World War II in this region. Now, with an-hour journey from Kuala Lumpur, this beach has become a place for recreational and relaxing activities, camping and many more.

For more information, email: mdkl.gov.my (Kuala Langat District Council)

Kajang Town

5) KAJANG TOWN, HULU LANGAT

Kajang was the settlement of ​​Temuan tribe in the 1700s. Batin Seri Alam was a leader based in Kajang before his power was subdued by the Sultan of Johor because he was under the Johor colony at that time. Close to Sungai Langat, Kajang City has successfully developed over the years. Sungai Langat was very important because it was the main trade route for the transportation of tin and rubber abroad

such as to the Great Britain. Apart from that, Kajang is also famous for its Satay Kajang which is favoured by every other Malaysians.

For more information, email: leekimsin@gmail.com (Kajang Heritage Center)

Pekan Kubu Baru

6) KUALA KUBU BARU, HULU SELANGOR

Kuala Kubu Bharu was originally known as Kuala Kubu which was placed under the administration of the British Resident namely President Frank Swettenham with J.P Rodger and Edward Maxwell. Kuala Kubu became the gateway to the State of Pahang at that time. Due to a great flood, the British moved their administrative center to Kuala Kubu Bharu on 6 May 1931. Kuala Kubu was also the main gateway to send supplies to the British forces which was previously located in the former Old

Market Town. Kuala Kubu Bharu has now become a comfortable and rapidly developing city. Apart from that, Kuala Kubu Bharu offers eco-tourism activities for fans of extreme sports such as paragliding, white water rafting and water tubing.

For more information, email: webmaster@mdhs.gov.my (Hulu Selangor District

Council)

Kota Mahadi

7) RAJA MAHADI TOWN, KLANG

Located not far from the Klang Municipal Council building, Kota Raja Mahadi was built by Raja Mahadi bin Raja Sulaiman at the height of the Klang war in 1866. The Klang War occurred due to the power struggle to rule the Klang district between Raja Mahadi and Raja Abdullah. However, over the years, the remaining building structure left is only the gate which became a landmark of the strength of the Raja Mahadi empire. Visitors can stop at Kota Raja Mahadi near the Sultan Alam Shah Building to take pictures and see the remains of this historical door.

For more information, email: klang@selangor.gov.my (Klang District Office)

Bangunan Tan Boon Chia

8) BANGUNAN TAN BOON CHIA, HULU SELANGOR

The Tan Boon Chia building is located in Rasa, Kuala Kubu Bharu, Hulu Selangor which is an urban area known as a tin mining site that contributes to wealth. This historical building was built in 1918 by a miner named Tan Boon Chia. The building has 51 rooms and served as the administrative headquarters of Malaya which was colonized by Japan during World War II. The building can now only be seen and photographed from the outside and visitors can also visit Bandar Rasa to enjoy some

relaxing activities.

For more information, email: webmaster@mdhs.gov.my (Hulu Selangor District

Council)

Bukit Belanda Kuala Selangor

9) DUTCH HILL, KUALA SELANGOR

Known as the City of Ultrech in conjunction with the name of the Dutch ship used around the time King Haji Fisabilillah’s defeat by the Dutch in Teluk Ketapang. This hill was also the first and most fortified Dutch fortress because of its strategic location which enabled enemies to be seen from afar. Now, close to Bukit Malawati, visitors can also stop by and visit Dutch Hill to take pictures and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere.

For more information, email: ydp@mdks.gov.my (Kuala Selangor District Council)

In conclusion, the history of the country is very important for future generations. We must apply the pure value of unity to live a harmonious life. In addition, Tourism Selangor recommends domestic tourists to visit and learn from the stories of these historical places and preserve our customs and traditions. However, please do not neglect our responsibility to always comply with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prevent the transmission of the Covid-19 virus. For any further inquiries and information, you can visit the official website at Selangor.travel

Article and photos contributed by Tourism Selangor

Mohana Restaurant @ Klang

When in Klang, imbibe the Indian part of Klang with an authentic Indian drink and sweets. Pass by Mohana Restaurant and you will pause for its colourful view of Indian sweets in different shapes and sizes behind the transparent glass. 

Imbibe the Indian part of Klang with authentic Indian food

First order of business, get a dose of Indian tea or properly said, masala chai. The masala chai was initially consumed by the Indians as a form of herbal medicine rather than a flavoured beverage. The ancient Ayurvedic texts influenced some of the chai malasa spice mixtures.

The British began promoting the tea as a beverage for for pleasurable consumption in India but in English style. After several episodes of evolution, the masala chai is made it through as an Indian staple. 

When you receive the drink at Mohana Restaurant, be mesmerized by the smell of herbs. You can tell that a lot has gone into the cup of tea. I could make out that there was definitely ginger, cinnamon and star anise. After some research, I found out other spices are cardamom, fennel seeds, nutmeg, and cloves. It comes in a metal cup that is in a mini basin. The basin is not for nothing. 

Stretch your tea to cool it or to further bring out the fragrance in the tea. While doing that, remember to get some one to record it for the Gram =)

Masala chai RM 4.20 with condensed milk and RM 5.10 with cow's milk

How to drink masala tea when they serve it in 2 containers like this

Indian sweets are famed to be extremely sugary. This is a habit inherited from the lack of technology in the olden days. In hot and humid India, without refrigerators, one way to preserve these milk and coconut-based desserts is to sweeten them. Here are all the sweets available at Mohana's. Can you name all of them?

Do note that although the sweets look attractive and can be addictive (because of sugar), these energy bars should be eaten in moderation to avoid health problems like obesity and diabetes. 

Can you name all the sweets?

C. Coconut candy

D&F. Paal gova

E. Mysore Paak

G. Laddoo

J. Arhirasam

L. Halwa

M. Jalebi

N. Boondi Ke Ladoo

Source: My friend Divya Nair

Kacang putih

If banana leaf rice is your choice of meal here, be warned as it would be difficult to resist as the side dishes are dished right to your face giving you no restriction to those delicious options like fried fish, fried chicken, curry mutton and eggs. The banana leaf style here interestingly resembles the serving style of Chinese dim sum restaurants.

Don't they look like dim sum?

Restoran Mohana

Mohana Restaurant
No.119, Jalan Tengku Kelana, Kawasan 1, 41000 Klang, Selangor

Tel: 03-3372 7659

Kari Kepala Ikan Tepi Sungai @ Klang

When you see a lot of vehicles parked by a railway and crowd near a river, you know you are at the famous Nasi Kandar Tepi Sungai in Klang. Although in a less Instagrammable environment, the curry fish head is sure to make you understand why there is a congregation Every lunch hour.

The whole fish head drenched in curry

The curry has the right balance of spices and a good hint of sourness. Cooking skill is apparent in the tender meat of the fish and it is bliss in the mouth when the spicy gravy is doused over the fluffy and adequately seasoned nasi bryani. It would be difficult to stop at one plate of nasi bryani if it wasn't for the diet watch.

Their lamb curry is also an appetizing dish. Tender and gamy at the same time, the diced mutton meat is covered with thick curry gravy and piquant with Indian herbs that will get you engrossed. 

Their fried chicken, fish and fish eggs are very welcomed by the masses. Be quick to catch hold of the fish eggs though as they sell out as soon as they are dished out.

The river none other than Sungai Klang opposite the mosque

The crowd hovering over the counter to get some curry

The famed dish, KARI KEPALA IKAN

Fried fish (pardon the  rice at the side as phototaking was actually in my way while I was indulging)

Piquant kari kambing/ mutton curry

Fragrant ayam goreng / fried chicken

It is located between the rail way and the river

A humble stall that commands a crowd

Gerai makan Pekalan batu, Kawasan 1, 41100 Klang, Selangor

Opens 11:45 am to 4:30 pm everyday except Friday 11:00 am to 1:15 pm; 2:15 pm to 4:45 pm