In the heart of Kuala Lumpur lies the 91.6 hectare Taman Tasik Perdana. Established in 1888, it was originally a swamp area that had high deposits of tin. When the tin mining industry closed due to depletion, the idea to develop it into a recreation center was formed. Alfred Venning, then the British State Treasurer, conceptualized the idea for the Public Gardens. It was later renamed to Lake Garden, and in 2011 formerly received its present name.
It is the city’s oldest park, and also its most popular. At any time of the week, the park is full of people wanting a break from the busy city. Its laid back atmosphere offers an ideal place to relax in, and it offers several activities for everyone. Take a slow boat ride on the lake, or keep fit by jogging or using the exercise machines. Children can have fun at the playground, and families can take walks around the various parks the area has. The gardens are easily accessible from other areas of interest in Kuala Lumpur, such as the National Monument, the Planetarium and the Parliament House.
Here are some of the places you can explore within Taman Tasik Perdana.
Orchid Garden
The Orchid Garden houses over 800 species from Malaysia. The garden is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM and has no admission fees. Take a walk around and admire the hundreds of orchids that are being taken care of here. On weekends, you can purchase orchids that you can bring home, take care of and cultivate.
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Walk towards the opposite direction of the Orchid Garden and you’ll find one of Southeast Asia’s largest bird parks. Thousands of bird species from all over the world can be found here. The landscape is very natural looking to make the birds feel more at home. The park is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, but closed on public holidays. There is a minimal entrance fee, RM3.00 for adults and RM1.00 for children.
The Butterfly Park
With over 120 butterfly species, the Butterfly Park is a spectacular place to get lost in. Going around takes only an hour, but you’ll want to stay a little longer to explore some more. A hundred species of plants are used to create an atmosphere similar to a rainforest in the sanctuary. A butterfly nursery and breeding area can also be found here, as well as an insect museum and showroom. Admission is RM4.00 for adults and RM2.00 for children. The park is open from 9AM to 5PM on weekdays, 9AM to 6PM on weekends and public holidays.
Malaysian National Monument
Felix de Weldon designed this freestanding bronze sculpture, one of the largest in the world. It commemorates the people who died in the country’s struggle against the Communist insurgency in the 1950s and it features seven men who represent seven leadership qualities. Right next to the monument is a building containing memorabilia of the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, the second Prime Minister of Malaysia.
Carcosa Seri Negara
Inside the Tasik Perdana you can find two British colonial mansions. In the nineteenth century, these were residences of the British Governor and the High Commissioners. In the recent years it was converted to an exclusive hotel. It is known to serve high tea much like it did for its residents in the past.
Deer Park
The parks’ rugged terrain is home to a small population of mouse deer, considered to be world’s smallest hoofed animal. Other deer species can also be found here. The area closely resembles the animals’ natural habitat. Guests pay an admission fee of RM1.00.
Herb and Conservatory Gardens
These two gardens are often visited by herbalists, horticulturalists and students, while casual visitors to the park often discover it by accident. The Herb Garden is a popular place for medical practitioners who believe in herbal remedies and it houses over 200 species of carefully labelled herbs. Aside from their names, you can also learn about their usage and remedies. Next to it is the Conservatory Garden, where you can find plants like rain trees, bamboos and ferns plus bigger and denser trees. Guests can take a stroll or relax in the scattered benches and shades.
The Hibiscus Garden
The hibiscus is one of the most beautiful flowers in the world, and this garden houses more than 500 varieties, including several rare kinds. Known locally as bunga raya, the hibiscus is considered to be Malaysia’s national flower. The exhibition hall and information center can help you learn more about the hibiscus.
Getting to Tasik Perdana
The closest MRT station to the park is Pasar Seni or Central Market. Visitors taking the Damansara Highway can leave their vehicles at the National Museum carpark and walk to the park. Come via Petaling Street towards Cenderawasih then to Kelab Perdana Street.
