Batu Caves

23 March 2017, we visited Batu Caves. The cave is dedicated to Lord Murugan and the focal point for Thaipusam.

The limestone cave is estimated around 400 million years old. 

Like all caves, Batu Caves is the home of bats and as early as 1860, Chinese settlers began excavating guano for fertilizing their vegetable patches. 

Batu Caves was promoted as a place of worship by the late Kayarohanam Pillai Thamboosamy Pillai in 1873, an Indian trader. Inspired by the 'vel'-shaped entrance of the main cave, the temple was dedicated to Lord Murugan. 

At the base of the stairs leading to the cave, there is a 140 ft statue of Lord Muruga. Unveiled in January 2006.

The cave view from the highway

When we arrived at 8.00am, the parking lot was almost empty

Lord Hanuman

Devotees praying 

We were unable to enter, as the place was closed

The limestone hills are a sight to behold

A smaller temple at the bottom of the hill

Musical instruments used by the temple during prayers

The kids had so much fun chasing pigeons

Size difference. How impressive and regal in stature Lord Muruga looks  

There are many places still under construction

272 stairs to climb

View on the way to the top

Success. Reached the top

o;

A gorgeous large tree in the compound

Exhausted from their climb, a cool coconut drink to quench their thirst

RM5.00 per coconut. Plenty no need to rush and its huge. Unlike the small Thai coconut. But being huge has its disadvantages. It is not fragrant and as tasty as the Thai variety

The parking lot is full at 10.00am. Meaning the early bird catches the worm