Batu Caves Steps : A Climbing Guide

An important part of visiting  Batu Caves is climbing the steps to the Cave Temple.

As you may be well aware there are 272 steps leaving up to the Cave Temple, Lord Muruga's abode.

From a distance, the steps seem to be inviting  and manageable. But that's not really so. Climbing the steps could be quite a physically challenging affair.

But then you should really try it.  The rewards are there. 

For one, you get to experience the cool, cave environment once you're up there. 

For another, on you way down,  you get to enjoy a magnificient view of the neighbourhood skyline.

Climbing the Batu Caves Steps 

If you're planning to climb the steps make sure you adorn appropriate clothing. 

This doesn't mean you're allowed to wear shorts or skimpy clothing which isn't suitable for a temple visit.

Dress in normal, 'respectful' attire while making sure your clothes don't burden you when you start climbing.

Pause every now and then for breath. There are flat, resting areas in between the flight of  steps.

If you have a weak bladder, don't consume much water. There are no toilets within the cave. You would have go to down the steps to use the toilet at the ground level.

Do not block the middle passage if you're a slow climber. Keep to the left or right, along the aisles to allow faster climbers easy passage.

Monkey Nuisance

Monkeys from the nearby hills and bushes will tend to interrupt your walk up and down the steps.

These  monkeys may seem 'cute', friendly and approachable and you may take kindly to them.

Whatever, you do, don't try to engage with them by feeding or touching them.

There has been unpleasant incidences related to monkeys along the steps.

Keep Your Bags Safe

Monkeys snatching bags and harrassing climbers are not uncommon. They monkeys snatch your bags thinking there's food inside. 

This unwelcome situation is largely caused by visitors themselves who feed the monkeys.

Once these monkeys get used to getting fed, they'll wait for visitors to provide them food, instead of looking for their own food.

If they're really hungry then they would snatch bags carried by climbers,  thinking there is food inside.

For that reason, avoid carrying plastic bags. Monkeys are easily attracted to them and they'll easily snatch these bags.

Keep all your belongings in a heavy zipped bag, A zipped backpack is advisable with all your precious belongings in it.

By following the pointer above, you would have a 'pleasant', rewarding climb up the Batu Caves steps.