Perdana Botanical Gardens

Located in the heart of the city, the Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens are the perfect place to spend a few hours away from the inexhaustible din of the main tourist attractions. Renowned for their natural beauty, these heavenly gardens are a popular urban retreat for families, couples, joggers and botanists alike.

Established by the British in the late 19th century, this colonial-era park blooms with a colourful variety of native horticulture as well as myriad unique trees and rainbow-hued flowers. Spanning an impressive 92 hectares, this beautifully manicured space incorporates five landscaped gardens, three parks, two shimmering lakes and one impressive national monument.

Elegant water features and sculptures are dotted amid the lush vegetation while charming bridges span over sparkling lakes and winding waterways. Deciduous shrubs make up an exotic plumeria tree collection while a verdant fernarium spans the entire length of the boardwalk.

As you wander around, keep an ear out for the sounds of the migratory and native birds which nestle among the topiary. Hire a boat to sit back and absorb the surrounding serenity from the lake. There is no shortage of pretty picnic spots here either, so unpack the hamper and inhale the sweet scents as you plan your next move.

Next, head over to the Butterfly Park which holds an impressive collection of over 6,000 butterflies from 120 species. Of particular interest to any budding lepidopterist is the nursery where visitors can witness the actual metamorphosis of squidgy larvae into beautiful butterflies.

Situated between the memorial and orchid gardens, the Deer Park is always a magnet for families. Get up close and personal with a variety of animals including Dutch fallow, sambar and axis deer as well as the ever-popular diminutive mouse deer. If you need a break from the kids, a huge children’s playground will keep the little ones entertained while you sit back and inhale the divine perfumes that waft along on the breeze.