Sunday, 18 November 2012

BATU CAVES


Although ultra touristic, the Batu Caves are an incredible natural wonder and give excellent insight into the prevalence and importance of Hinduism in the region. The 272 steps leading up to the cave entrance are guarded by the infamous gold painted statue of Lord Murgan. Ascending the steps, fearless macaques grab snacks off of tourists and the massive cave entry begins to drip water on the heads of visitors. 
The inside of the huge cavern houses several vibrant Hindu temples where prayers and offerings are made to the various deities inside. Pigeons flock, monkeys scurry about while flora hangs from the ceiling and light penetrates through the immense hole in the caves roof. Although tourists are snapping pictures the importance of this place for the Hindus in peninsular Malaysia is cause for mass pilgrimages, festivals and religious ceremonies.


Back down at the base of the cliffs are several other temples where priests are making offerings and prayers and a lower series of caves beautifully depict Hinduism in its entirety. The caves are painted with every hue imaginable and filled with statues and scenes of the countless gods interacting with one another. Deep inside is also a mini reptile house and aquarium where for a few dollars you can interact with some very intriguing creatures to finalize an already unique trip to a religious and tourist mecca. 

                 

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