We’d heard plenty about Bukit Melawati monkey feeding in Kuala Selangor — monkeys, lighthouses, history, and views over the Straits of Malacca. But nothing really prepares you for the moment a silvered leaf monkey hops onto your shoulder and eyes the banana in your hand like it’s pure treasure.
This wasn’t just a quick sightseeing stop. For us, Bukit Melawati turned into a full-blown road trip adventure from Kuala Lumpur — packed with laughs, snacks (for both us and the monkeys), and a healthy dose of history. Here’s how it all unfolded.
The Road Trip Buzz
We set off from Kuala Lumpur with that classic road trip playlist, snacks in the car, and a goal: reach Bukit Melawati in about 1.5 hours. The LATAR Expressway made the drive smooth, with stretches of green scenery reminding us that city life was officially behind us.
Coffee stops? Essential. Random jokes about what the monkeys might steal first? Plenty. That’s the beauty of a road trip — the chatter builds the anticipation.
How to Get to Bukit Melawati (If You’re Not Driving)
Not everyone wants to deal with traffic, so here are a few ways to reach Bukit Melawati from Kuala Lumpur:
- Car (Easiest Option): Straight shot on the LATAR Expressway, then follow signs into Kuala Selangor.
- Bus: From Medan Pasar (Pekeliling Bus Station), hop on a bus to Kuala Selangor. Once there, Grab or a local taxi gets you to Bukit Melawati.
- Tour Packages: Perfect if you want a stress-free day — most tours bundle Bukit Melawati with the famous fireflies.
- Train + Grab: Take the KTM Komuter to Kuang or Bestari Jaya, then call a Grab. It’s the longer route but works if you prefer trains.
👉 Weekend Tip: The Bukit Melawati tram runs only on weekends (RM3–5). It’s colorful, fun, and saves your legs from the hill climb.
Meeting the Monkeys at Bukit Melawati
We barely had time to stretch our legs before the first group of silvered leaf monkeys appeared. These gentle creatures are far friendlier than the Batu Caves gang, and they don’t mind a photo op — as long as you bring snacks.
- What We Fed Them: Bananas and leafy greens (bought fresh from a roadside stall).
- Best Part: One bold monkey perched right on Roman’s shoulder, while another carefully took beans from Fizah’s hand.
- Surprising Find: They actually love bread too — though bananas are still their favorite.
It’s a mix of awe and laughter — one second you’re nervous, the next you’re grinning like a kid at a funfair.
Beyond the Monkeys: What Else We Found
Bukit Melawati isn’t just about monkey selfies (though those are gold). The hilltop is layered with history and views:
- Altingsburg Lighthouse: A white Dutch-built beauty with panoramic views of the coast.
- Fort Melawati Cannons: Remnants of battles past, now surrounded by curious monkeys.
- The Museum: Small but worth a peek if you want context about the hill’s colonial history.
- Scenic Lookouts: Sweeping views of Kuala Selangor and the mangroves below.
- Fireflies: At night, the rivers of Kuala Selangor glow with thousands of fireflies — tiny lights flickering in the mangroves like nature’s own fairy show.
It’s a cool mash-up: wildlife encounters one minute, colonial relics the next.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time to Go: Morning or late afternoon (cooler weather + active monkeys).
- What to Bring:
- Bananas or veggies (buy them fresh nearby)
- Sunscreen & water
- Hand sanitizer (you’ll thank us later)
- Camera — trust us, you’ll want proof of that monkey shoulder ride
- Weekdays vs Weekends: Weekdays are quieter but no tram. Weekends are busier but come with more transport options.
Pairing It with Fireflies
Since we were already in Kuala Selangor, we couldn’t resist pairing Bukit Melawati with the Kuala Selangor Fireflies. Imagine a boat ride at night with thousands of glowing fireflies lighting up the mangroves. Magical doesn’t even begin to cover it — the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Final Thoughts
Our Bukit Melawati monkey feeding adventure had it all: road trip vibes, shoulder-hopping monkeys, lighthouses, and fireflies. It’s the kind of trip that works for both travelers looking for something unique outside of KL and locals craving a quick weekend escape.
If you’re planning your next outing, make sure Bukit Melawati makes the list. Just don’t forget the bananas — they’re basically your monkey passport.
