13 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur are the Batu Caves, unique natural attractions of Malaysia, formed from limestone more than 200 million years ago.
The caves got their name from the nearby Batu River, which also gave its name to the nearest village. The local tribes had known about the Batu Caves for quite a long time and used them as shelters during hunting. But the caves gained worldwide fame only after they were discovered by American naturalists.
Rising almost 100 meters above the base, the Batu Caves actually consist of three main caves and several small grottoes. The largest is called the Cave of Caves or the Cathedral Cave and features decorative Hindu shrines. The Thaipusam festival is held here every year, attracting more than a million pilgrims. This place is one of the most visited shrines dedicated to Hindu gods outside India. To reach these caves, travelers climb a steep staircase of 272 steps.
