A leech bite. That’s how my last Bukit Kembara adventure started. Don’t worry though I’m here to tell you all about this amazing hill. Bukit Kembara a modest hill rising 270 metres above sea level sits in Kuala Lumpur’s Taman Tun Abdul Razak area. It offers a vigorous short hike. Behind it lies a tranquil lake a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
Kembara means adventure and that’s exactly what you get here. The trailhead is easily found near a vibrant shrine. This shrine is unique it’s a shared space for Buddhists Taoists Hindus and Sai Baba followers. The trail itself is marked by stretches of hose pipe. This helps you avoid getting lost even though the trail is short it’s steep. A walking stick is recommended.
After a short climb there’s a flat stretch before another steep climb. You’ll pass interesting signs and a large rock before reaching the summit. Sadly there’s no view from the top but the trail continues downhill towards the lake. This downhill part is quite muddy after rain so be careful. Hoses and ropes help you navigate the steep descent.
Once you reach the lake you can enjoy a walk around this old reservoir. It’s called the Ampang Impounding Reservoir built in 1892. It was Kuala Lumpur’s first water reservoir holding over 37 million gallons of water. The lake itself offers a peaceful environment a habitat for snakes lizards frogs and turtles. A short metal pier leads to an inspection shaft with a Victorian pergola. The ironwork looks original from the 1890s.
The entire hike there and back is roughly 3.5km. It’s a good workout equivalent to climbing 60 floors. The entire adventure from start to finish takes about 90 minutes. If the hike seems too strenuous there’s an easier shorter trail near the Kelab Darul Ehsan golf course. It only takes about 10 minutes. So remember water snacks insect repellent comfortable shoes a hiking pole and your phone are all essentials. Oh and leech repellent. Enjoy your adventure on Bukit Kembara.