2018 Year End Target Destination (Batang Kali / Ulu Yam)

Proposal: Batang Kali / Ulu Yam (2D1N)

Before heading to Genting Highlands, you may consider to stay a night at the foot hill around Batang Kali / Ulu Yam.

Here, I am drafting a proposal for my year end holiday, after studying Google Maps for several days.

Getting to Batang Kali / Ulu Yam

Batang Kali is roughly an hour by car from Kuala Lumpur, via B23 Jalan Hulu Yam Bharu – Batu Caves. If you are taking the KTM Komuter, alight at KTM Batang Kali.

(1) Desa Kaloi Farmhouse
      [ Excerpted from here and here ]
      GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/v8V2fVB872S2

• Desa Kaloi Farmhouse offers you the best of both worlds, as the modern design of the house will make you feel at home and the wilderness will greet you as you step outside the house.
• Enjoy the serene environment in the village surrounded by greenery and animals.
• Bungalow is available at RM600/night (3-rooms).
• Chalet is available at RM150/night, total of 6 units available (each unit for 2 pax).

(2) World of Phalaenopsis
      [ Excerpted from here and Google Maps ]
      GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/XxfxNNVcxMJ2

• Batang Kali is home to the 2nd largest orchid nursery in Malaysia.
• World of Phalaenopsis is filled with “Moth Orchids” in a spectrum of vibrant colors, which would definitely tempt the photographer or Instagrammer in you. 
• Apparently, this orchid species is relatively easy to care for and can usually last between 4 to 6 weeks.

(3) Guava Farm + Bee Farm
      [ Excerpted from here and Google Maps ]
      GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/1BUv25FkqCJ2

• The farm is run by Mr Ho and his sons, who started this local business after moving from Johor to Batang Kali. After showing how guavas are cared for and harvested, you will be treated to  succulent, crunchy slices of home-grown guava (Taiwanese hybrid species).
• Within this guava farm, there is also a bee farm. Honey is known for its numerous health benefits, and here you can get local honey close to the source.

(4) Hulu Tamu Hot Springs
      (Google Translation: Upper Hot Springs Guest ??)
      [  Excerpted from here and Google Maps ]
      GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/3mgpcqRBWRu

• Do come to visit the humble Hulu Tamu Hot Springs for a dip in the pool. 
• There are actually two different hot springs here. One is owned by the government, while the other is privately-owned, and is more beautifully decorated. 
• Locals believe that the water can ease rheumatism and skin ailments, but most people just come to relax.

(5) Sg. Pinang Waterfall (Air Terjun Sg. Pinang)
      [ Excerpted from Google Maps ]
      GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/dzcibsduzKF2

• If you have time to make a detour, you can go to the Sg. Pinang Waterfall, which is along the road to Genting Highlands,where locals have picnics or go for a swim.
• Water is clean, the surrounding is also clean because everyone helps to clean up after leaving. Perfect for small​ groups.

(6) & (7) Local Eateries / Restaurant (Examples)
      [  Excerpted from here and Google Maps ]
      GPS: (6) https://goo.gl/maps/K4yoXtc4HPT2
      GPS: (7) https://goo.gl/maps/M3LTcdV1NUP2

• Batang Kali (and surroundings) is one of the few places in Malaysia where you can experience authentic Hokkien culture, tradition and food. Walking around the village lets you soak in the laidback, kampung (village) atmosphere.
• Batang Kali known for its signature dish: Loh Mee. This yellow noodles dish served in a thick, starchy gravy, and loaded with meat, vegetables and egg. Traditionally, this piping hot dish is taken with a bit of vinegar, which adds a distinct savory taste.

Additional Reference:

a) Ulu Yam Foods & Attractions (in Chinese Language)

b) On the Ulu Yam - Batang Kali Food Trail

c) Ho Ho Farmstay (GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/SfnFQdx3BZt)

d) Eco Murai Rimba (GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/aZERePZmF6y)

e) Batang Kali Bamboo Briyani (GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/BoyjAU2Md1k)

f) WK Restaurant (GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/yzXTMp7JmeG2)

g) Restaurant Tom Yam, Serendah (GPS: https://goo.gl/maps/seVBKRVH2Mm)