Kuala Kubu Bharu

Kuala Kubu Bharu is a charming little town at the foothills of Fraser's Hill in the Hulu Selangor district. Also known as 'KKB' by locals, the town began life as a mining colony in the 18th Century. Later, it housed a fortress built by warring Sultans during a period of civil war before falling into colonial hands. KKB was originally situated between two tributaries of the Selangor River, but a massive flood in 1883 wiped out the entire town, claiming 33 lives including District Magistrate and Revenue Collector Sir Cecil Ranking. The town was then moved to its present location on hilly terrain, surrounded by lush valleys, to prevent further tragic recurrences.

Today, getting there is easy for visitors travelling to Fraser's Hill from the North-South Highway route or Rawang; you have to pass through KKB first, which lies along the main road about 30km away from the Gap. Framed by a backdrop of rainforest and hills, heritage shophouses from colonial days mingle alongside clusters of traditional houses - Life here is unhurried, pleasant and peaceful, unfettered by the constraints of modern living and conveniences. Walking around town and admiring its architectural landscape, one can't help but feel that KKB has changed little from the British era.

Some tourist attractions can be explored in Kuala Kubu Bharu, including an art gallery, gravesite of Sir Cecil Ranking, oild railway station, town center and an ancient Chinese temple. Beyond the town are beautiful waterfalls, rivers for white water rafting and fishing, and lovely forest trails to hike. This is indeed a great place to appreciate countryside living and relax with simple comforts. There are a few budget hotels, a golf course, bus terminal and train station (KTM) but little else exists in terms of infrastructure and facilities. If you have the time, certainly pay a visit to Kuala Kubu Bharu before heading up the highlands.