New Straits Times

Shoot to thrill

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Here are the top 10 Instagramm­able attraction­s in Selangor

INSTAGRAM users who are drawn to beautiful scenery should check out these places in the State.

1. BATU CAVES, GOMBAK

Every year, thousands of tourists from around the world visit Batu Caves. One of the most Instagramm­able spots in Selangor, Batu Caves has recently gone through a major facelift, including a 272-step Rainbow Staircase. At the top of the stairs is the Sri

Subramania­n temple. One of the temple’s cool features is that it is constructe­d within a limestone cave, offering a serene and peaceful place for prayers. Don’t forget to drop by Mel’s Corner for its famous cendol durian. Some say it’s the best in Gombak district.

2. BROGA HILL, SEMENYIH

Fancy catching sunrise or sunset from up a hill? Well, check out Broga Hill in Semenyih, about 45 minutes from the city centre. On a clear day, lucky hikers can catch an unobstruct­ed sprawling view of the city. Also known as Bukit Lalang by the locals, Broga Hill is a fairly easy hike, suitable even for first-time hikers. Those planning to drive to Broga Hill can park at the foot of the hill. It’s only RM1 per entry. However, please be careful during bad weather as the road up the hill can be very slippery.

3. LAMAN SENI SEKSYEN 7, SHAH ALAM

If wall art is your thing, head out to this location for some really cool and colourful paintings, all done by the locals. Located at the back alley of some business premises, some of the wall art here have a threedimen­sional effect. After admiring the art, you can head to Ayam Gepuk Pak Gembus for some delicious food.

4. I-CITY SHAH ALAM

The LED lights that are hung from trees here create the illusion that they are covered in a blanket of snow. I-City Shah Alam is a popular spot for its many other attraction­s. One of them is the Snowalk, where the temperatur­e is set to 5˚C so it feels almost like winter. If you can’t stand the cold, how about sliding down the huge Tornado Ride water slide at Water World? You can also pretend to be an astronaut on a mission at Space Mission and, if you are the brave sort, attempt the House of Horror.

5. MASJID SULTAN SALAHUDDIN ABDUL AZIZ, SHAH ALAM

One of the largest mosques in Malaysia, Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz (also called the Blue Mosque) is a breathtaki­ng structure, even from afar. Its architectu­re combines both traditiona­l Malay design and modern structures. Head over to the second floor to take pictures at the foyer. There is also a guided tour at the mosque by the Islamic Outreach Abim which was establishe­d in 2008.

6. SEKINCHAN PADI FIELDS

With its sprawling padi fields that stretch as far as the eyes can see, Sekinchan is renowned for its lush greenery and beautiful landscape. Everyone is welcome to take photos near the padi fields. However, avoid going into the fields as you will be trampling over the rice plants that farmers have planted tirelessly. There is also a popular mango farm, famous for its huge and juicy mangoes, near the padi field. Sekinchan is also well-known for its cheap seafood.

7. TAMARIND SQUARE, CYBERJAYA

If you want a place to relax with a good book and a cup of coffee, Tamarind Square is the place to be. Love taking photos? Check out its floral wall. Flowers and various plants are diligently planted on the side of the building, creating a wall of green. Also at the Square, foodies will find a lot of new restaurant­s and eateries, including Glaze Eatery and 10Gram Cafe.

8. SKY MIRROR, KUALA SELANGOR

This may be a new attraction but its popularity has spread far and wide. It is only accessible twice a month — during the new moon and full moon period — as most of the time it is submerged.

What is Sky Mirror? Well, it refers to the Picture courtesy of @yukichinot­abi

mirror-like reflection of the sky. In Kuala Selangor, this phenomenon occurs in one of the nearby islands. It is also dubbed the Salar de Uyuni of Malaysia, after a similar natural wonder in Bolivia.

To get there, drive to the Kuala Selangor jetty and hop on one of the boats to Pulau Angsa (that’s where all the action takes place).

The best time to visit is between 7.30am and 10.30am. You should time your visit accordingl­y as the boat ride takes about 30-45 minutes. Empire Damansara is a place for leisure activities due to its calm surroundin­gs with a little touch of modernity. There is a restaurant called Metal Box, where you get to dine as if you’re sitting inside a large container. For dessert lovers, stop by Epique, Seven Cups or Haraju-Cube.

10. ECO ARDENCE, MAYA PARK

Eco Ardence Maya Park is a great place for some quality family time. It even has a modern playground for the kids. This place is surrounded by big colourful containers with minimalist designs which house shops and cafes like Container Cafe, Heritage Nyonya Cuisine, U-Mai, Hinata Cafe and Let’s Joy Cafe.

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Picture courtesy of @steffisupa­ng
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Picture courtesy of @humminglio­n
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Picture courtesy of @bambamk_
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Picture courtesy of @mariefeand­jakesnow
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Picture courtesy of @nureaian.k
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Picture courtesy of @mohdsyafiq­haiqalla
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Picture courtesy of @afif.00
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Picture courtesy of @jimmmyyy
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Picture courtesy of @ireneyap

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