INTRODUCTION
Selangor is one of the 13 states in Malaysia. It is on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is bordered by Perak to the north, Pahang to the east, Negeri Sembilan to the south and the Strait of Malacca to the west. It completely surrounds the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The origin of the name Selangor is lost in history, although some source claim the name to have come from the Malay word selangau, which gives the meaning of a large fly, most probably due to the abundance of flies in the marshes along the Selangor River in the state’s northwest. Another more plausible theory claims the state’s name was derived from the term Selang Ur meaning “land of the straits” (ur means “land” in Tamil, selang means “straits” in the Malay language). Selangor is also known by its Arabic honorific, Darul Ehsan (“Abode of Sincerity”).
Selangor is hailed as the gateway to Malaysia, given its strategic location to all major travel routes. It is home to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the country’s main entry point and Port Klang, the largest port in Malaysia. There is an extensive network of highways and expressways in the state, making all parts of Selangor easily accessible. The location of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city and Putrajaya, the new federal administrative centre within the bounds of the state further enhances the touristic appeal of Selangor. The magnificent Kota Darul Ehsan Arch along the Federal Highway welcomes visitors driving into the state, this Moorish styled arch, is the state’s most distinguished landmark, erected to mark the ceding of Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Government in 1974. Minusops Elengi, locally known as “Bunga Tanjung” is the state’s flower.

The state’s capital is Shah Alam and the royal capital is Klang. A third major urban centre is Petaling Jaya which was awarded city status on the 20th of June 2006. Hence, Selangor is one of only two Malaysia states with more than one city; the other being Sarawak. On 27th of August 2005, Selangor was officially declared the first developed state in Malaysia by the then state government. The traditional culture of Selangor’s Malay majority is influenced by those of Bugis, Johor, Minangkabau and Javanese ancestry. Selangor’s population also has Chinese and Indian influence; those two having larger minority populations. Selangor also receives a lot of Western influence as for being the most developed state in Malaysia. Same as the culture, the cuisine in Selangor also receives the influence from Johor, Bugis, Jawa and Minangkabau. Some of the famous cuisine in Shah Alam and Klang includes Rojak Klang, Lontong Klang and Mee Bandung. Other famous dishes offered in Selangor are Mee Jawa, Satay Kajang, Kuah Asam Pedas and Sayur Masak Rebung. Klang bak kut teh is famous among the Chinese population. It is an herbal pork soup which can be eaten during breakfast, lunch and dinner as well.
All roads away from Kuala Lumpur lead to the state of Selangor, Malaysia's most populated and prosperous state. Selangor surrounds the burgeoning capital with green suburban arms and industrial tracks, but as the city is left behind, a different, older and more natural order quickly unfolds. To the west is the Klang Valley, whose tin mines were inextricably linked to the history and development of modern Malaysia. It was here that much of Malaysia's Civil War was played out. Continuing past the city of Klang, one eventually comes to Port Klang, where sampans come and go. Both to the north and south, Selangor is dominated by fishing villages on the coast and the Kampung inland. Heading east from KL, it is not the ocean but hills and forests that dominate. This is the beginning of the lush Malaysian heartland, and the spiritual connection to the landscape first takes hold at the extraordinary Batu Caves. Even further inland are the Genting Highlands, one of Malaysia's finest hill stations. Any direction one takes in Selangor eventually leads to some sight that is deeply connected to Malaysia's development; a tin mine, an oil-palm or rubber plantation - for this reason, the state is often called "the heart of modern Malaysia."

LOCATION
Selangor, with an area of approximately 8,000 sq. km, extends along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia at the northern outlet of the straits of Malacca. Its advantageous geographic position and rich natural resources have made Selangor the most prosperous state in Malaysia. Today, it has the distinction of being the most populated state in Malaysia, with about 3.75 million inhabitants. A large proportion of Selangor’s population lives around the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, though the balance is now shifting towards its new capital, Shah Alam.
SELANGOR MAP

ATTRACTIONS
State Mosque The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque is one of the most beautiful buildings in the country. Frequently referred to as the "Blue Mosque" its minarets are the tallest in the world at 142.3 meters. Its graceful blue dome is one of the largest of its kind. Decorative Islamic calligraphy enhances the dome and main prayer hall, while the overall architecture integrates ethnic Malay design elements.Wet World Theme Park | This theme park is Shah Alam's latest attraction and is an ideal place for a family outing. Offering a wide variety of exhilarating water games, it has gained popularity among toddlers and youngsters. | Shah ALam Lake Garden | Site of many annual events, the Shah Alam Lake that graces the city centre is surrounded by landscaped gardens. A culture centre called Laman Budaya, the Wet World Water Park and the Shah Alam Gallery are within this area. Picnic and children's playground areas dot the well-kept parkland.Shah Alam Gallery | Situated at the Shah Alam Lake Gardens, the Shah Alam Gallery exhibits a wide collection of art, local handicraft and fabrics for viewing and for sale. | | State MonumentLocated adjacent to the State Secretariat Building is the serene and lovely State Monument with a sweeping arch, reflecting pools and gold inscriptions on grey granite. It is a favorite location for shutterbugs and tourist because of its picturesque setting. |
Sultan Alam Shah Museum
This blue-roofed State Museum in traditional Selangor architecture houses some of the finest displays in the country, providing visitors with an eye-opening look at the history, culture and heritage of Selangor.

Shah Alam Sports Complex
Awarded the 1996 Best Sport Facility in Asia Award, the Shah Alam Sport Complex features one of the largest and most dynamic sports and entertainment complex in South East Asia. State-of-the-art facilities and a professional management team ensure that all events held here will be successful. SASC comprises the 70,000 seats Shah Alam stadium, an adjacent warm-up track and training field, a 12,000 capacity air-conditioned indoor stadium, and an Olympic standard swimming and diving centre.
Malaysia Agriculture Park
The Malaysia Agriculture Park at Bukit Cahaya Seri Alam (Shah Alam) is a vast complex of landscaped floral gardens, agriculture plots, orchards, lakes and dense jungle. Various facilities for accommodation and camping are available, and scenic trails form an irresistible attraction throughout the area.
Sunway Lagoon
The Sunway Lagoon is a former tin mine that has been transformed into a major theme park not only in Selangor, but also Malaysia. It attracts crowds of visitors because of its comprehensive range of water sports, restaurants and recreational facilities. Adjacent to it is a huge shopping and leisure complex called the Sunway Pyramid, which adds to the limitless range of activities available and the luxurious Sunway Lagoon Resort Hotel.

Kota Darul Ehsan
Erected to mark the sacrifice by the Sultan of Selangor in ceding Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Government, this magnificent arch incorporates exquisite Moorish architecture with traditional Malay elements. Flanked by ancient Selangor cannons, Kota Darul Ehsan straddles the Federal Highways as it crosses the state border with Kuala Lumpur.
The Mines Wonderland
The Mines Wonderland is an exciting theme park with water sports, amusement rides, a snow-house as well as restaurant and various other facilities. At night, glittering floats parade on the lake while a stunning laser and aqua laser presentation entertains and mesmerizes visitors. The Mines Wonderland, a popular attraction for the visitors of all ages, is a component of the Mines Resort City that includes a shopping complex, an exhibition centre, business centre and two magnificent hotels.

Safari Lagoon Water Theme Park
Fancy going shopping while your children busy themselves at a theme park all under the same roof? Well, it is possible at the Pandan Safari Lagoon Shopping Complex in Pandan Perdana. Safari Lagoon Water Theme Park, the first rooftop water theme park in the Klang Valley, covers an area 0.9 hectares on the seventh floor of the shopping complex. It is able to hold 3,000 people at any one time and is the place to have splashing fun at one's own leisure. To complement the park, animal sculptures and lush greenery give the park its “safari look”.
National Zoo
The National Zoo in Hulu Klang has a fascinating animal collection from all over the world, as well as an impressive aquarium and aviary. It is considered one of the most interesting zoos in South East Asia, with large rounds for picnic, enormous lake for `swan boating' and train rides around the zoo.
Templer’s Park
Located just north of Kuala Lumpur, Templer's Park is a lush forest park with cascading waterfalls and rivers meandering through it. This park is also ideal for picnics and visitors could take the opportunity to dip in the cool, refreshing water.

Commonwealth Forest Park
Tourists that are on their way to the north, passing Rawang from Kuala Lumpur, should stop for a while at Commonwealth Forest Park. It is situated on the left side of the main road just after the Templer's Park and easy to locate. This park was launched in 1993 to commemorate The 14th Commonwealth Forest Meeting. This interesting park is shrouded by a forest, landscaped park, camping sites, chalet, water fountain, trekking paths and other facilities for the tourists to feel the natural beauty.
Kanching Recreational Forest
The Kanching Recreational Forest, located adjacent to the Templer's Park offers a cool and soothing environment for tourists. The more popular spots among picnickers are the second and third levels, where the waterfalls end up in spacious pools and boulder streams.
Orang Asli Museum
Situated at Km 24, Jalan Gombak, visitors can have an insightful glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of Selangor's "Original People" or orang asli that is fast disappearing with development and modernization. It has a vast collection of tribal heritage such as blowpipes, spears, porcelain and ancestral figurines.

Batu Caves
Located 15 km north of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is the most popular tourist destination in Selangor. It consists of three big caves and the main temple cave, which features ornate Hindu shrines and has a ceiling looming over 100 meters overhead. To reach it one has to climb a steep flight of 272 steps, a feat performed by as many as 100,000 devotees during the annual Thaipusam festival.

Carey Island Located just off the mainland, Carey Island is well-known for the orang asli community known as the Mah Meri. They have assimilated into life with jobs in the nearby plantations and farms. However, they have retained the unique culture and way of life. Apart from exhibitions of the traditional dances and music, Mah Meri are particularly known for their votive sculptures, fashioned from a kind of a swamp hardwood called "nyirih batu".
Morib Beach Morib Beach is better known as a weekend seaside retreat, with wind whispering through the tall shady casuarina trees and lapping sea waves. It is an ideal place for visitors in search of peace and tranquility. On weekends, food stalls sprout to cater for the visitors.

Historic Jugra Once the seats of ancient kings, the placid town of Jugra has several fascinating historic buildings. The intriguing Istana Bandar (or Bandar Palace), built in 1905, features exquisite woodcarvings by the late Sultan Alauddin, reminiscent of the previous century. The Sultan Alauddin Mosque, 'next to Istana Bandar, was erected in 1932, but its classical Moorish architecture has given it timeless, mystical look. The Royal Mausoleum, the Jugra Lighthouse and the ruins of the legend shrouded Istana Jugra are also well worth a visit.
Bukit Malawati, Kuala Selangor
This landscaped hill offers a panoramic view of the Selangor coastline. Shaded by rain trees, it has several historical attractions such as the Altingburg Lighthouse, the Royal Mausoleum, and the ruined Kota (Fort) Malawati, the legendary 100 steps, a fable execution block, children's playground and a quaint rest house that offers wholesome meals for tired travelers.

Kuala Selangor Nature Park
The Kuala Selangor Nature Park covers more than 200 hectares of secondary shrubs, wetlands, inter-tidal mudflats and mangrove swamps. It is a world-renowned bird sanctuary, with about 160 species recorded here. It features hides, paths, watchtowers and boardwalks to enable visitors to view the variety of flora and fauna. Accommodation is available to those keen to experience the natural surroundings.
Kuala Selangor Fireflies
The quiet village of Kampung Kuantan is the site of the largest firefly colonies in the world. The nocturnal tours are extremely popular, with boats hired at the Kampung Kuantan jetty. The skilled local oarsmen make this experience a memorable and unforgettable one.
Meanwhile, the Firefly Park Resort in Bukit Belimbing is the latest resort built to offer visitors the opportunity to witness these fireflies, one of nature's wonders, and also experience a night's stay in chalets with an unforgettable surrounding.
Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest
This lush recreational forest is a scenic 33 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. It nestles beside orchards and tropical rainforests, with facilities available for camping, picnicking and swimming. Chalets are available for rent and hawkers ply a wide variety of food and drinks on weekends.
Sungai Gabai Waterfalls
On the same road to Sungai is the freshing site of Sungai Gabai Waterfalls. Several falls cascade down over 100 meters, culminating in a broad, photogenic plunge into a series of small pools suitable for swimming.
Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest
A great hideout for a weekend picnic, this recreation park is a big hit with the locals. The allure of Sungai Tekala as an enchanting tourist destination lies rooted in its lush, resplendent and unspoiled beauty radiating an awe-inspiring aura of peace and tranquility.

White Water Rafting
This water sport is fast gaining popularity among local and foreign visitors alike, due to the challenging waters of Sungai Selangor, near Pertak in the Hulu Selangor district. There are two types of water transportation - canoe, inflatable dinghy.
Sepang International Circuit
The Sepang International Circuit, introducing itself as the home of Malaysia's motorsports, is by far one of the best and has the largest facilities of its kind in the world. Built on a 260 hectare plot, the purpose built facilities are simply astounding, from the 5.54 km track to the supporting arenas for go-karts, four-wheel drives, motocross and rally cars. The circuit is the only race track in the world that provides double frontage grandstand area where 30,000 spectators will be able to watch the race there. A further 100,000 spectators will be able to experience the excitement from the natural stands. Sepang International Circuit is the host for the FIA Malaysia Formula One Championship, the FIM Malaysia World Motorcycle Grand Prix and various international and national competitions throughout the year.

Motor Racing
Enormous interest is generated every year with Selangor hosting several world and international class motor-racing championships. Man and machine are tested to the limit as these events scream into action. The racing track in Sepang organises the famous World Formula One series and FIM Malaysia World Motorcycle Grand Prix. Meanwhile, the Shah Alam Racing Circuit is famous for its "Saturday Nite" racing events.
Bagan Lalang Beach
Bagan Lalang Beach is poised to be a major tourist sport in Sepang given the fact that it is close to the country's new airport, KLIA. Experience the quiet and tranquil surrounding with friends and family members. This beach is well known for its 'ikan bakar' or barbecued fish. Restaurants that serve various fish and other seafood dishes are opened till late night to cater for the ever-increasing number of tourists.
Paya Indah Wetland
The spectacular Paya Indah Wetlands, Malaysia's Premier Tourism Park, offers an exciting wholesome outing for everyone. At Paya Indah Wetlands, you will embark on a journey through a myriad of fascinating landscapes and exciting discoveries. Each road leads to surprises and adventure. Each glimpse rewards you with an exciting revelation of nature's best-kept secrets. You will find yourself alone with nature where mystery lurks at every corner and shy creatures watch your every move! There is much to see and enjoy in Paya Indah. The Palm Garden is envisaged to be the world's largest collection of palm species. The lake's a thriving fishing paradise. And the birds are a welcome sight among thriving lotus flowers and towering "elephant grass". In Paya Indah, your day can be filled with exciting activities like jungle trekking, cycling and canoeing to tempt the thrill-seekers. Those who seek a more leisurely way to spend their time can opt for tram and horse-cart rides, or a stroll through the landscaped gardens in Paya Indah.

The Royal Gallery
The Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Royal Gallery in Klang, touted as a landmark heritage site, was first opened to the public on 18 November 2000. Inspired by His Majesty Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah himself, the opening of the gallery to the public marked the eventual fulfillment of his Majesty `s dream. The inception of this gallery began as a personal Endeavour by the royal couple to share His Majesty's collection of priceless royal heirlooms, artifacts and gifts from his subjects and foreign dignitaries.
Kris Monument
Visitors travelling from Shah Alam to Klang will notice imposing silver coloured Keris Semenanjung on the left of the Federal Highway, just before the Bukit Raja Industrial area. This memorial was erected to commemorate the silver jubilee of the Sultan of Selangor's installation in 1985. The Keris is a wavy bladed Malay dagger which symbolizes power, strength and unity.

Pulau Ketam
Literally translated as "Crab Island", this fishing village attracts visitors with its unique feature houses built on long wooden stilts, suspended one meter above the sea levels. Its wooden-board streets are just five feet across and the traffic consists largely of pedestrians and bicycles. Boat tours, homestays, fishing trips and bird-watching outing are available, and the seafood here is the freshest possible!

Yatch Club
The Royal Selangor Yacht Club (RSYC) is the oldest yacht club in Malaysia. The RSYC is the largest and most active club in Malaysia with 1000 members, a moored fleet of 90 - with 30 keelboats and 60 powerboats and about 130 boats on the club's hard standing. The activities in the club include keelboat racing, dinghy sailing for children, training programs, fishing competition and flotillas.

HOMESTAY
Sepintas
Sepintas is located 200 km north of Kuala Lumpur city along the coastal highway. Hailed as one of the best villages in the State of Selangor, Sepintas is situated along the banks of the fast-flowing Bernam River. This provides cool respites for the town. Experience the charm of age-old Malay traditions, through the performances of shadow play or wayang kulit, kuda kepang and ulik mayang.
Papitusulem
Papitusulem, founded over 70 years ago, is actually an acronym for Parit Tujuh Sungai Leman. It is located in the northern part of the state of Selangor in the district of Sabak Bernam, approximately 120 km from Kuala Lumpur city. It sits smack in the middle of the rice growing belt, surrounded by acres of paddy fields. The lush green vegetation with the presence of mangroves, oil palm plantations and tropical fruits farms make Papitusulem the ideal place for some peace and tranquility. The population of more than 1400 people is mainly farmers and fishermen. Visitors will be entertained by traditional dances music blends with Arabic, Malay, Chinese and Indian cultural heritage. Also, be entertained by the zapin dances, dikir barat jawa, martial art performance or silat lincah and cemendi, kuda kepang, shadow play or wayang kulit play to the beat of kompang drums.
Batu 23 Sungai Nibong
Batu 23 Sungai Nibong is in the district of Sabak Bernam and is approximately 120 km to the north of Kuala Lumpur. It is typically traditional Malay village surrounded with lush vegetation wit acres of paddy fields, mangroves, coconut ad oil palm plantations. The villagers are friendly and warm. They go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. With a population of around 1300, visitors can establish very good relationship and be part of the local. Batu 23 Sungai Nibong is known for their shadow play or wayang kulit which has been handed down from generations. They welcome visitors by the beat of kompang drum.
Kampung Endah
Kampung Endah is located in the district of Kuala Langat, approximately 60 km south of Kuala Lumpur. Founded over 50 years ago, this typical Malay village has now a population of more than 2000 people. The village is surroundedby acres of oil palm plantation, coconut and tropical fruit farms. Homestay visitors will get to see the kuda kepang performances, listen to traditional musical instruments, cempuling and be welcomed by the beat of kompang telu drums plus several other cultural and musical performances.
Seri Kayangan
Seri Kayangan Homestay is located approximately 150 km north of Kuala Lumpur, in the district of Sabak Bernam, Selangor. It consists of two villages, Kg. Tebuk Baru, Bagan Terap and Kg. To’ Kalifah. The villagers are friendly and warm toward visitors; make staying at this homestay your genuine ‘kampung’ memory. Visitors will be entertained and also can learn Malay dances and be welcomed by the beat of kompang drums. The mystical moves of kuda kepang and a demonstration of self-defense technique called silat are not to be missed.
Sungai Kertas
Sungai Kertas sits just at the outskirt of the city. It has the best of both worlds. It is aptly named after the flower, Bougainvillea or bunga kertas, which is grown in abundant around the village. Located in the district of Gombak, Sungai Kertas is sandwiched between Batu Caves, a prominent limestone outcrop and the hills of ulu yam. It is within reach of both the nature and the city attractions. Heading eastward, visitors will take the winding road and be captivated by the large dam and numerous scenic picnic spots to choose from. Tree top canopy provide cool shade above the gushing clear stream of water flowing from the hills. Westward, visitors will find the attractions of the Batu Caves Temple, Petronas Twin Tower, shopping and other KL landmarks. Sungai Kertas is indeed the best place to be, if you want to be in “two places at a time”.

Kanchong Darat
Kampung or village of Kanchong Darat was first developed at the turn of the last century by the Javanese. The presence of Javanese influence be it in the spoken dialect, food, culture and their way of life continue to this day after more than 100 years. The word Kanchong meant a water jar made of bamboo used by the natives to store water. The word darat come about because the village was inland and far from sea. The closest town Banting is the commercial and administrative center for the district of Kuala Langat. It is situated just minutes away from the homestay of Kanchong Darat. Kanchong Darat is located along the western coastline of Peninsular Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca, one of the busiest strait in the world. Traditional songs and dances accompanied by traditional musical instruments called cempuling will get visitors enthralled by the age old performance.
Banghuris Homestay
Get the pleasure of the original lifestyle and the hospitality from the citizens of Banghuris, Sepang. It is indeed a golden opportunity to enjoy the traditional lifestyle that seems to be deficient. Banghuris is the name that represents the villages that is Bukit Bangkung Village, Hulu Chuchuh Village and Hulu Teris Village. With more than 3,000 villagers, tourists will surely be fascinated with their lifestyle, culture and tradition. Banghuris also offers various activities related to agro-tourism. Tourists will be invited to visit the coconut, guava, star fruit and the palm oil orchards. Besides that, a visit to the orchid and hydroponics vegetables farms also awaits the tourist.
Sungai Haji Dorani
Sungai Haji Dorani Homestay is located in the district of Sabak Bernam, approximately 140 km north of Kuala Lumpur. It consists of Kampung Haji Dorani, Kampung Sungai Nipah, Kampung Parit Dua Nad Kampung Sungai Limau. Surrounded by acres of paddy field, mangroves and plantation Haji Dorani Homestay is certainly a sight to behold. The combination of a friendly community and cultural uniqueness make staying at this homestay an unforgettable experience.
Sungai Sireh
The idyllic village sits smack in the middle of Malaysia’s important rice grower community. Surrounded by acres of paddy land, Sungai Sireh is certainly a sight to behold, what more to experience. Picturesque water for paddy irrigation and the fruits orchards dotted the countryside. The homestay activities have opened its doors to numerous visitors since it operates more than 10 years ago. It’s unique charm, warmth and kindness of the people and has beckoned many visitors to sample the rural lifestyle that is special to Sungai Sireh.

Sungai Tengi
Away from the hustle bustle of the city, Sungai Tengi provides the ideal gateway for some peace and tranquility. Surrounded by oil palm plantations and forests, the place typically reflects Malaysia’s rural outlook and charm. Sungai Tengi started as Felda oil palm scheme some 45 years ago and still retained its close knit community up to this day. The people are friendly and most willing to go out of their way to ensure visitors are happy enjoys their stay.
Air Manis
Air Manis is a typical traditional Malay village surrounded by paddy fields, mangroves, coconut and palm oil plantations. It is situated 150 km north of Kuala Lumpur along the coastal highway. The settlement started with agricultural activity nearly 90 years ago. It has now a population of 4000 people engaged in the agricultural sector. One thing still remains, the people are friendly, warm and hospitable toward visitors. Air Manis is made up of seven villages, offering unique homestay program for tourists who want to experience holiday with a difference. Homestay visitors will get to see the shadow play or wayang kulit, listen to ghazal and gamelan traditional music and check out the ancient art of self-defense silat gayung fatanni and cemendi plus several other cultural and musical performances.
ACCOMMODATION

* Hotel Equatorial Bangi * Residence Hotel at Uniten * De Palma Ampang * Flamingo Hotel * Crystal Crown Hotel * Impian Morib Hotel * De Palma Inn * Firefly Park Resort * Nature Park Kuala Selangor * Eastin Hotel * Armada Hotel * One World Hotel * Petaling Jaya Hilton * Sheraton Subang Hotel * Summit Hotel * Putrajaya Shangri-La * Concorde Inn Sepang * Putrajaya Marriott Hotel * The Pan Pacific Hotel KLIA * Grand Blue Wave Hotel * The Pan Pacific Glenmarie * Carlton Holiday Hotel & Suites * Palace of Golden Horses * Intekma Resort * Palace Beach & Spa *

SHOPPING
The state is hailed as a shoppers’ paradise for its large number of shopping establishments. Most shopping malls serve as one-stop centres and are situated adjacent to theme parks and well-appointed hotels. Popular malls include:
1 Utama Shopping Centre

Mines Shopping Fair

Sunway Pyramid

The Curve

Ikea

Ikano Power Centre

Cineleisure