A series of limestone caves 13 km north of KL, Batu Caves is Malaysia's most visited Hindu shrine and one of the country's most striking natural landmarks. The golden statue of Lord Murugan at the base stands 42 metres tall. From there, a climb of 272 steps — painted in rainbow colours — leads to the Temple Cave, a vast cathedral-like cavern filled with shrines and statues. A separate cave houses elaborately painted murals depicting Hindu mythology.
The site is at its most intense during Thaipusam, when hundreds of thousands of devotees undertake the climb carrying kavadi — ornate metal frames attached to the body by hooks and skewers. Outside festival time the caves are busy but manageable; macaques roam freely and will snatch food, so keep bags closed. Entrance is free though some inner caves charge admission. Take the KTM Komuter train from KL Sentral to Batu Caves station (30 minutes).