Genting Highlands & Batu Caves Day Trip with Skyway Ride

Summary

Ride Asia’s longest cable car, explore Batu Caves and temples in one day

You’ll ride Asia’s longest cable car above ancient rainforest, pause at Chin Swee Temple for a breath of mountain air and incense, then climb Batu Caves’ famous steps beside gold statues and monkeys. Expect cool weather up high—bring a jacket—and let your local guide handle all the details while you just take it in.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound—our van’s engine humming against the early morning quiet as we left Kuala Lumpur. Our guide, Arif, had this gentle way of pointing things out without making it feel like a lecture. By the time we reached the Genting Skyway, mist was curling around the treetops below. The cable car doors slid shut and suddenly it was just us gliding over rainforest—so much green it almost hurt my eyes. Someone behind me gasped when we passed above a waterfall. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel that high up. My hands were a bit clammy on the rail but I couldn’t look away.

We stopped at Chin Swee Temple—a burst of red pillars and incense smoke tucked into the mountain. Arif showed us the black-faced altar hidden inside; he said locals come here for wisdom or luck before heading to the casino (I tried to pronounce “Chin Swee” right but he just grinned). The air was cooler than I thought—definitely glad I brought my jacket like they suggested. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for wind chimes and someone chanting softly nearby. It stuck with me.

Back at Genting Highlands, you could hear casino sounds spilling out—chips clinking, people laughing—but I skipped that part (not really my thing) and wandered through the shops instead. There’s a kind of organized chaos: families with bags everywhere, neon lights blinking over rollercoasters, smells of fried chicken mixing with cold mountain air. After lunch on my own (Arif pointed out his favorite noodle stall), we headed for Batu Caves.

I won’t lie—the 272 steps up Batu Caves looked brutal from below, especially in midday heat. But there’s this gold Murugan statue watching you climb and monkeys darting between people’s feet (one tried to steal someone’s water bottle). At the top, shoes off, limestone cool underfoot—it felt like stepping into another world. The shrines inside are bright with flowers and candles; you can hear prayers echoing off stone walls. Coming down felt different somehow—I don’t know if it was relief or just awe or maybe both.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Genting Highlands and Batu Caves visit

• Ride Genting Skyway cable car
• Stop at Chin Swee Station
• Enjoy casino and theme park
• Shop at boutique stores
• Climb 272 steps at Batu Caves
• Visit Hindu shrines inside temple

Top questions

How long does the Genting Highlands & Batu Caves day trip take?

The tour is a full-day trip from Kuala Lumpur, including all transfers and stops.

Is hotel pickup included in this Genting Highlands tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included for selected hotels in central Kuala Lumpur with minimum two adults booking.

Can children enter the casino at Genting Highlands?

No, only persons aged 21 years or older are allowed inside the casino.

What should I wear for visiting Batu Caves?

You should wear comfortable walking shoes; shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed inside temples.

Do I need to remove my shoes at Chin Swee Temple or Batu Caves?

Yes, you must remove your shoes before entering temple areas.

What happens if Awana Skyway is closed?

If Awana Skyway is under maintenance or closed, it will be replaced by Goh Tong Cable Car but Chin Swee Temple will be skipped without replacement activity.

Is food provided during this day trip?

No meals are included; you can buy food on your own at Genting Highlands or nearby stalls.

Is this tour private or shared?

This is a shared tour; other guests may join you during the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from selected Kuala Lumpur hotels (with minimum two adults), transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking local guide who keeps things relaxed but informative, plus round-trip tickets for Asia’s longest cable car ride—no need to worry about entry fees or logistics along the way.