Kuala Kubu Bharu - A Day Trip

Kuala Kubu Bharu is a small town located in Hulu Selangor, approximately 70 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. Originally named Kuala Kubu, it served as a significant tin-mining town during British colonial rule. In 1883, a devastating flood destroyed the old town, leading to the establishment of Kuala Kubu Bharu in the 1930s. 

Carefully planned by the British, the town now functions as the administrative center for Hulu Selangor. Over the years, Kuala Kubu Bharu has gained popularity as a destination for urbanites seeking an escape into nature (BENTONG, PAHANG - A SIMPLE TRIP).

Our visit to Kuala Kubu Bharu was spontaneous, arising from a journey from another destination. With no prior plans, we relied on information available online to explore what this historic town had to offer (PLACES TO VISIT IN PENANG). 

 

Sri Sithi Vinayagar Temple
We began our visit at the Sri Sithi Vinayagar Temple, a tranquil place of worship built in the early 20th century by Indian workers brought in during British rule to work in tin mines and rubber estates. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the temple embodies the settlers' devotion and their efforts to preserve their cultural heritage while adapting to life in a new land. 

The temple has undergone renovations since my previous visit a couple of years ago. During the peak prayer hours, the temple was bustling, making it challenging to take photographs or videos as it felt intrusive. The video attached is from my prior visit, in year 2018. 

 

Sun Sun Nam Cheong Kopitiam

While exploring the town, we stumbled upon Sun Sun Nam Cheong Kopitiam, a well-known local establishment that has been a longstanding landmark in Kuala Kubu Bharu. Arriving around 11 a.m., we enjoyed the classic kopitiam-style toast with butter and kaya, paired with black tea and tea with milk.

The experience felt like stepping back in time, offering a comforting and nostalgic meal. The accolades displayed on the walls speak volumes of its long-standing reputation in the community.

Cecil Ranking’s Grave and Monument

Situated within the grounds of MRSM Kuala Kubu Bharu, we were fortunate that a teacher welcomed us and shared insights into Cecil Ranking's significant role as an engineer for the Selangor Public Works Department during the construction of the Kuala Kubu dam in 1883, where he tragically lost his life. 

His grave and the accompanying monument serve as poignant reminders of his contributions and the devastating flood of 1883, which led to the abandonment of the old Kuala Kubu town. Legend has it that Cecil Ranking's tragic death was linked to a white crocodile. Local beliefs regarded the presence of this crocodile as an ominous warning. Despite these warnings, Ranking pressed on with the dam’s construction, which is said to have angered the spirit of the crocodile. 

This disturbance is believed to have caused the dam to rupture, resulting in the catastrophic flood that ultimately claimed his life. This flood is the very reason why Kuala Kubu was rebuilt and named Kuala Kubu Bharu.

 

Our plan to visit a Chinese temple was set aside, as it was already 4:30 p.m., and we didn’t want to get caught in traffic on the return journey. Additionally, we didn’t feel the need to explore Kuala Kubu Bharu’s natural attractions, as we are fortunate to have our own urban garden and rainwater harvesting system.