The Perdana Botanical Garden, still widely known by its old name of the Lake Gardens, is the largest park in the city and the best place to cool down from it. Laid out in 1888 and covering around 90 hectares of rolling hills, lakes and mature rainforest trees, it is a world away from the traffic that surrounds it. Locals come at dawn to jog, practise tai chi and walk the paths, and families return at weekends for picnics and boat rides on the lake. The garden is a collection of smaller gardens: an orchid garden, a hibiscus garden, a herb garden, a deer park, rare fruit trees and fountains and sculptures scattered between them. Several of the city’s best cultural sights stand on its edge, including the National Mosque, the Islamic Arts Museum, the National Museum and KL Bird Park, which makes it the natural centre of a green, unhurried day. Entry to the garden is free and it is open daily from early morning until evening.
How it works
There are several entrances, and you can walk in at any of them without a ticket. The park is big enough to need a plan. Most visitors take in the lake and Laman Perdana canopy, then follow the signs to the orchid and hibiscus gardens, and finish at the deer park.
A tunnel connects the area with the National Museum, so you can combine the garden and a museum visit on the same trip. Paths are generally paved, but some are steep, and a hire bicycle or a golf-cart style shuttle can help cover the distance on a hot day.
What to expect
The garden is calmer and cooler than the city, particularly in the early morning when the air is fresh and the light is soft. By late morning the humidity rises and you will want water and shade. Some attractions inside the wider park, such as the bird park, have their own admission, but the gardens themselves are free. Wear comfortable shoes, bring an umbrella for the afternoon storms and use insect repellent near the water.
Making the most of it
Arrive early and walk first, then head to the Islamic Arts Museum or the bird park in the heat of the day when you want air conditioning or shade. It makes a good rainy-season activity too, because the lush plants look their best after a shower, though paths can be slippery. The area is not well served by trains, so a Grab ride from KL Sentral or the city centre is the easiest way in and out.
If you are staying at The Majestic Hotel, the gardens are close enough that a short ride gets you there. Bring a picnic or eat at the cafes near the main entrances, and keep an eye out for monkeys, which are used to people but best left alone.
Good to know
The park also contains a butterfly park, a bird park and a hibiscus garden, some of which have their own entry fees and opening hours. The National Monument, a bronze memorial to those who died in the struggle for peace and freedom, stands on the hillside near the entrance and is worth a short stop.
Tai chi groups and joggers fill the paths on weekend mornings, and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. There are public toilets and cafes near the main entrances, but fewer facilities deep in the park, so carry what you need.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided walk through lakes, gardens and parkland, with optional boat rides and nearby museums.
Best time
Early morning, when it is cool and the paths are quiet.
How long
Two to three hours, or half a day with the neighbouring sights.
Tips
Carry water, wear comfortable shoes and use repellent near the lakes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who needs a green, cool break from the city, especially with children.
- Families
- Plenty of space, a deer park, boat rides and nearby KL Bird Park.
- Couples
- Quiet lakeside walks and the orchid garden, best at dawn or late afternoon.
- Pair with
- KL Bird Park, the National Mosque and the Islamic Arts Museum.
- Time needed
- Half a day with the neighbouring sights.
Good questions
Is the Perdana Botanical Garden free?+
Yes, entry to the gardens is free. Some venues inside the wider park have their own admission.
What are the opening hours?+
The garden is generally open daily from early morning to evening, around 7 AM to 8 PM.
Is this the same as the Lake Gardens?+
Yes, the Lake Gardens is the older name and many people still use it.
What else is nearby?+
KL Bird Park, the National Mosque, the Islamic Arts Museum and the National Museum are all close.
How do I get there?+
A Grab ride from the city centre or KL Sentral is easiest, as the area has limited rail access.
