The small, western state of Selangor is Malaysia’s most affluent and heavily-populated province. It includes the busy Klang Valley, but even though it surrounds Kuala Lumpur, does not include the Malaysian capital. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of magnificent cities and towns dotting the landscape, from the royal metropolis of Klang to the state capital Shah Alam.
Don’t MissSelangor boasts a plethora of interesting highlights that lure tourists year round. Despite being next door to KL, it still attracts many thousands of visitors annually.
Architecture in Selangor ranges from impressive contemporary splendours to the colonial-drenched buildings of the bygone era. Most towns and cities are able to tell their past through their cityscape, so exploring these sites are highly recommended. Klang features sites like the glorious Royal Palace and Kota Raja Mahadi Fort. Shah Alam’s Blue Mosque is another awe-inspiring site.
The recreational forest in Ampang, which rests around the banks of the Ampang River, is a great place for bird watching, and with its many playgrounds, attracts many families over the weekends. Tourists can also witness fireflies at the aptly named Firefly Sanctuary, and enjoy a day out at National Zoo of Malaysia, the largest zoological park in the country.
The Sepang F1 circuit hosts the Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix each year. In addition, Selangor offers many other entertainment attractions for travellers. Sunway Lagoon is an ideal spot to thrill the wife and kids for the day. To escape the heat, tourists should head to Shah Alam’s Wet Water World Park, which never disappoints.
Restaurants and BarsAs with other regions of Malaysia, Selangor has a variety of renowned cuisines that visitors simply must try. Kajang is famous for satay-style skewered meat, while Klang is home to the mouth-watering bak kut teh (pork rib tea) and ngar poh kai fan (chicken clay pot with rice). There are dozens of shops selling these specialties in the city. Nightlife in Selangor isn’t overly popular and tourists are probably better off travelling into Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle district for night life.
ShoppingSelangor’s towns and cities are famous for their night markets, which are known locally as Pasar Malam, and these offer a large number of bargains to visitors. Pasar Malam Tamam Mesra in Kajang is arguably the most famous night market in the state. Selangor’s busiest cities are also home to Western-style malls, which provide visitors with an escape for the heat and a range of brand-name retailers. Plaza Shah Alam in the state capital, Sunway Pyramid Megamall in Petaling Jaya and Klang’s AEON Bukit Tinggi Shopping Centre are among the largest malls in the state.
