A day trip to Bukit Tinggi provides a refreshing experience and is only an hour away from the busy Kuala Lumpur city. If you do not own a car, buses depart daily at 10 am from Berjaya Times Square Hotel Kuala Lumpur located at the west wing side of the entrance (Return ticket priced at RM55 per adult and RM50 per child). Bukit Tinggi (literally translated as 'High Hill') is situated at 2700 ft (~823 m) above sea level, so cold weather is not expected. However, the place can provide a respite among the lush greenery.
If you take your time and look up, you may notice gigantic feathery ferns...
...or even a wild banana plant!
You will arrive at the Colmar Tropicale Resort, a French-inspired village resort. Over the years, the resort has somewhat become a funfair theme park to appeal to the kids but if shooting cardboard ducks or fishing for mock fish isn't your thing, I highly recommend that you give that a miss. Instead, hop onto the free mini open-air shuttle bus which runs at designated times from the resort to the main attraction of Bukit Tinggi, the Japanese Village and Botanical Garden. Your bus ticket from Berjaya Times Square Hotel, KL is inclusive of one entrance to the Japanese Village and Botanical Garden. You will love taking in the sights of the green tropical plants and flowers while walking leisurely in the garden and around koi ponds. Bring along your cameras, drawing pads or notebooks as the surroundings could spur inspiration or creativity.
The japanese koi fishes are so friendly, they swim to the pond's surface to greet you.
The bountiful bamboo in the botanical garden creates a zen space as you walk underneath its shades
To avoid disappointment and to make for a pleasant trip, there are a few things to note. The journey up to Bukit Tinggi from the foot of the hill may be queasy for those who are not accustomed to winding and steep roads. The Colmar Tropicale Resort is only good for vacation and golfing. Most of the attractions are not conveniently situated near the resort. Even if you are inclined to walk, there are no suitable pedestrian walkways, and hence it is not recommended for your safety. Some paths in the botanical garden may be slippery due to moss growth, so be extra careful. Wear a hat, sunscreen and good walking shoes. Bring along raincoats and adequate drinking water. Food is pricier at the café and restaurants here compared to KL city so if you're on a budget, you can come prepared with a picnic basket. Make sure you get back in time for the 6.30pm bus that leaves the Colmar Tropicale Resort for KL city.
The Colmar Tropicale Resort, inspired by the french town in Alsace, France.
One of the few entertainment booths at the Colmar Tropicale
Resident swans at the Colmar Tropicale
Bukit Tinggi, a refreshing green getaway
