Bukit Melawati, also known as Melawati Hill, is a historical site and popular tourist attraction located in Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia. It sits on a small hill overlooking the Straits of Malacca and offers scenic views, a peek into Malaysia’s colonial history, and a unique chance to interact with friendly silver-leaf monkeys. The area is not just a spot for sightseeing, but also holds great historical value dating back to the 18th century. How to Reach Bukit Melawati, Selangor Bukit Melawati is located in the town of Kuala Selangor, about 75 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. If you're driving from Kuala Lumpur, the journey takes around 1.5 hours via the LATAR Expressway or Federal Route 5. Just search for “Bukit Melawati” on Google Maps or Waze, and it will guide you to the site. Public transport is limited, but you can take a bus or KTM Komuter train to Kuala Selangor and then use a local taxi or Grab service to reach the hill. On weekends and public holidays, a small train tram called the “Melawati Hill Tram” is available to take visitors up the hill, as private vehicles are not allowed to drive up. Weather at Bukit Melawati The weather at Bukit Melawati is generally warm and humid throughout the year, typical of Malaysia’s tropical climate. Average temperatures range from 26°C to 32°C. The rainy season usually falls between November and February, so visitors should bring umbrellas or ponchos if traveling during this period. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit, as the weather is cooler and more comfortable for walking and sightseeing. Timing to Visit Bukit Melawati Bukit Melawati is open daily, but the best time to visit is on weekends when the tram service is operating. The general opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. During weekends and holidays, the tram starts running from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Visiting in the late afternoon is especially popular because it allows you to explore the hill and then head down to the nearby firefly park in the evening. Why is Bukit Melawati Famous? Bukit Melawati is famous for its historical significance, panoramic views, and the playful silver-leaf monkeys that roam freely. It was once the site of a fort built by the Sultanate of Selangor in the late 1700s to defend against Dutch forces. The remains of this fort, including cannons and old walls, are still visible today. Besides its history, the hill is also well known for being close to the Kuala Selangor Nature Park and the magical firefly tours in Kampung Kuantan. It’s a favorite spot for families, school trips, and tourists who want a mix of culture, nature, and fun. Entry and Visit Details There is no entrance fee to visit Bukit Melawati itself. However, if you choose to ride the tram to the top of the hill, there is a small fee. As of the latest information, tram tickets cost around RM 5 for adults and RM 3 for children. The tram operates only on weekends and public holidays. On weekdays, visitors must walk up the hill, which takes about 10-15 minutes. There are some small stalls at the bottom of the hill selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. You can also buy bananas and peanuts to feed the monkeys, but do so with care and respect for the animals. History and Architecture of Bukit Melawati Bukit Melawati holds an important place in the history of Selangor. It was the location of Fort Melawati, built in the late 18th century by Sultan Ibrahim of Selangor to protect against Dutch invasion. The fort featured strong defensive walls, cannons, and a strategic viewpoint over the coast. After the Dutch captured the fort, they rebuilt and renamed it Fort Altingburg, after the Dutch governor at the time. When the British later took control of Malaysia, they used the site as an administrative center. Today, some cannons, foundation stones, and colonial-era structures still remain, providing a glimpse into its past. Things to Do at Bukit Melawati There are several interesting activities and attractions to explore at Bukit Melawati: Visit the Historic Fort: Explore the ruins, cannons, and learn about the site’s past battles. See the Lighthouse: The Altingsburg Lighthouse, built by the British in the 1900s, is still functional and offers a scenic view (not open for entry, but great for photos). Meet the Monkeys: Friendly silver-leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques roam the hill. They are used to visitors and will come close if you offer food. Enjoy the View: The top of the hill offers breathtaking views of the coastline, river mouth, and the town of Kuala Selangor. Museum Kuala Selangor: A small museum at the top showcases artifacts and history of the area. Interesting Facts about Bukit Melawati Silver-leaf monkeys, with their orange-colored babies, are unique to the region and are peaceful compared to aggressive macaques. The hill was once a stronghold for Selangor's royal family during times of conflict. Bukit Melawati offers one of the best sunset views in Selangor. The lighthouse, although over a century old, still serves as a guide for ships navigating the Straits of Malacca. The tram ride up the hill is a fun attraction for kids and a convenient option for elderly visitors. Tips for Visiting Bukit Melawati Visit on weekends if you want to take the tram up the hill — it’s easier and saves energy. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water as it can get hot during the day. Be cautious when feeding monkeys — use open palms and avoid sudden movements. Wear comfortable walking shoes as some paths are uneven or sloped. Plan to visit nearby attractions such as the Firefly Park and Kuala Selangor Nature Park after your trip to the hill. Visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset and enjoy cooler weather. Bukit Melawati is a perfect combination of history, wildlife, and beautiful views. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it offers a unique experience that connects Malaysia’s rich past with its natural beauty. It’s a great destination for families, photographers, and anyone looking to explore the cultural roots of Selangor.
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