With simple spending on food and budget stays, a day trip or an overnight stay in nature is still possible. As the pressures of fast-paced city life have grown, Kuala Kubu Bharu has become one of Malaysia’s top getaways - a place where time seems to stand still (FRASERS HILL PAHANG). Wandering through the town feels like stepping back into Malaysia’s heritage, beautifully preserved.
Whether it is discovering things to do in Kuala Kubu Bharu, visiting local attractions, or spending a weekend near Kuala Lumpur, this old yet lively town continues to draw those who value its heritage and simplicity.
History of Kuala Kubu Bharu
There is one significant place closely linked to the history of Kuala Kubu Bharu, though it hasn’t gained much recognition as a must-see spot. It deserves to be acknowledged as one of the notable historical sites in Malaysia. The Cecil Ranking’s Grave and Monument, located within Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Kuala Kubu Bharu.
The grave and monument of Sir Cecil Ranking are tied to the 1883 tragedy when the dam burst, causing a massive flood. In the late 1800s, the original town of Kuala Kubu was a thriving settlement near the Kuala Kubu Dam, but the flood swept through the town, destroying most of it. The disaster claimed many lives and left the area uninhabitable.
His grave remains at the old Kuala Kubu site, now within the grounds of MRSM Kuala Kubu Bharu. Visiting Cecil Ranking’s Grave and Monument offers perspective on what Kuala Kubu Bharu stands for today and where it began. It must be noted that this historical site is well maintained and preserved.
What
to See & Do in Kuala Kubu Bharu
There is nothing complicated about what to see and do in Kuala Kubu Bharu. It is all connected to nature. Nature here is fresh, exciting, rewarding, and fulfilling, ranging from waterfalls and quiet spots to rivers for strolling or spending time outdoors. The natural spots in Kuala Kubu Bharu are also suitable for water activities like river tubing, kayaking, or simply getting into the water for a refreshing dip.
Waterfalls in
Kuala Kubu Bharu
Sungai Chiling
Waterfall
The most famous
and often regarded as one of the best waterfalls in Selangor, Sungai Chiling
Waterfall lies within the Chiling Fish Sanctuary. It is known for its
crystal-clear pools and the series of river crossings along the trail. Managed
by the Selangor Fisheries Department, this waterfall remains clean and
well-preserved.
Lata Medang
Waterfall
Popular among
hikers, Lata Medang Waterfall starts from Kampung Pertak, near the Chiling
entrance. The trail is more challenging and less crowded than Chiling.
Strata Falls (also
known as Taman Rekreasi Sungai Pertak Waterfall or Pertak Falls)
Smaller and
closer to the road, Strata Falls is suited for a quick visit or a family
picnic. Its easy accessibility makes it a good choice for a short nature break.
Lubuk Meru
A calm river
pool surrounded by greenery, Lubuk Meru is ideal for strolling, dipping in the
water, or having a picnic. It is less crowded than the main waterfalls, making
it a quiet place to spend time in nature.
Ampang Pecah
Literally
meaning “Broken Dam,” Ampang Pecah is the site of the 1883 dam burst that
destroyed the old Kuala Kubu. Today, it is a relaxing river spot with
historical significance, where remnants of the old dam can still be seen.
Bukit Kutu
Once a British
hill station, Bukit Kutu is now a hiking trail with ruins at the summit. The
hike is moderately challenging, and the top provides panoramic views of the
surrounding hills and valleys.
Hulu Tamu Hot
Springs (Taman Arif)
Located within Taman
Arif, the Hulu Tamu Hot Springs feature natural hot spring pools. It is an
easily accessible spot to spend time outdoors and appreciate the natural
surroundings of Kuala Kubu Bharu.
Places to Visit
in Kuala Kubu Bharu
Apart from nature, there are also other places to visit in Kuala Kubu Bharu, including several places of worship. These include the Chinese temples Kuan Yin Temple, Hock Leng Keng, Ching Swee, and Yue Shan Gu Miao. There is also Al Hidayah Mosque in Ampang Pecah and the Sri Sithi Vinayagar Temple, a Ganesha temple built in the early 20th century by Indian workers during British rule.
What to Eat in Kuala Kubu Bharu
Agriculture has long been one of the
sources of income for the locals in Kuala Kubu Bharu. The climate, which is
suited for farming, is why Kuala Kubu Bharu produces so many fresh ingredients.
In fact, the farming industry has grown significantly as more people have come
to Kuala Kubu Bharu for the same reason.
These fresh produces make their way into
the food in luxury villas and resorts in Kuala Kubu Bharu. Even street food
makes the most of fresh produce. Some vendors even grow their own vegetables
and use them in the traditional dishes Kuala Kubu Bharu is known for.
This also explains why street food in
Kuala Kubu Bharu. Dlicious, budget-friendly, and built on heritage recipes. Tastes
just as good as anything fancy.
Finding street food in Kuala Kubu Bharu is
as easy as it gets. Unassuming stalls and small heritage eateries cater to the
town’s different communities. Chinese kopitiams, some open for decades, have
strong coffee, kaya toast, Hainanese chicken chop, and chicken rice that is
homemade.
Malay and Indian food is just as inviting. From nasi lemak and nasi goreng to chee cheong fun and roti canai, there is plenty to choose from, whether for dining in or takeaway. Sweet and savory local snacks appear throughout the day, either for tea or as part of a meal.
