Introduction

The locals often abbreviate the name Petaling Jaya to PJ. It is a thriving city in Selangor, Malaysia, and it is well enveloped within the Greater Kuala Lumpur area. It has a rich cultural climate, excellent infrastructure, and a zest for modernity interwoven with strong traditional values. It offers varied sightseeing and activities for leisure or business and perhaps just as a stopover, which will also spark the interest of any visitor who comes to Petaling Jaya.

Amazing view of Petaling Jaya from above

Amazing view of Petaling Jaya from above (Source: iMazingRealty)

History of Petaling Jaya

Petaling Jaya was founded in the early 1950s and designed as a satellite township to relieve congestion in Kuala Lumpur. From a humble house-and-garden estate built on former rubber estates, it mushroomed into one of Malaysia's biggest urban centers. In 1954, Petaling Jaya was officially named. The name is derived from the surrounding local town of "Petaling.". The year flew by fast, and PJ rapidly started taking on an urban hue: very gradually, it turned from a very sleepy town into a bustling city.

In 2006, Petaling Jaya was given the status of a city, which further established it as an industrial and commercial residential hub within Malaysia. The city has grown but still retains a lot of its community feel and charm, evidenced by older neighborhoods like Section 52 or otherwise known as PJ Old Town.

Another view of Petaling Jaya

Another view of Petaling Jaya (Source: Skyscrapercenter)

Location of Petaling Jaya

Located within the state of Selangor, Petaling Jaya lies to the west of Kuala Lumpur. It is part of the region known as Klang Valley and is about 10 km from the center of Kuala Lumpur. The city is well linked by highways and public transportation systems, hence easily accessible from most other parts of Malaysia.

Located in a prime area of ​​Malaysia

Located in a prime area of ​​Malaysia (Source: iMazingRealty)

Attractions 

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

The famous attraction in Petaling Jaya, Sunway Lagoon, is the biggest theme park where people get a wide variety of experiences like water slides, a wildlife park, and adventure rides. The park has been divided into six themed zones: a water park, an amusement park, a wildlife park, and a scream park. It is an ideal destination for families and thrill-seekers where there is definitely something to entertain every age group.

Kart ride at the park

Kart ride at the park (Source: xParkMalaysia)

The Curve and Mutiara Damansara

For shoppers and food enthusiasts, The Curve itself-and for that matter, the greater vicinity of Mutiara Damansara-is a dream come true. The Curve is an open-air shopping center comprising a variety of international brands, restaurants, and cafes all under its wing. IKEA Damansara and IPC Shopping Centre are in close proximity, hence making The Curve a one-stop destination for a whole day of retail therapy and leisure.

The curve shopping mall in Petaling Jaya

The curve shopping mall in Petaling Jaya (Source: Dreamtimes)

Taman Jaya Lake Park

For those who seek the quiet, nature-like experience, the Taman Jaya Lake Park is an oasis right in the middle of the city. It houses a beautiful lake surrounded by a walking path, which can indeed serve as an excellent sport for morning jogs, picnics, or some relaxing moments amidst nature. It is also close to Amcorp Mall, where antique markets and thrift shops are an absolute nightmare and treasure for unique finds.

Taman Jaya Lake Park

Taman Jaya Lake Park (Source: Myweekendplan)

Thai Buddhist Chetawan Temple

The Chetawan Temple, located on Jalan Pantai, is one of the most iconic cultural hotspots in the city. With its intricately designed architecture and stunning golden spire, this temple is an awesome sight to witness both spiritually and culturally the wonders of Buddhism in Malaysia. Visitors can go around the temple grounds, and it offers a serene environment for reflection.

Thai Buddhist Chetawan Temple

Thai Buddhist Chetawan Temple (Source: ThailandTourism)

KidZania Kuala Lumpur

A great place for children, KidZania Kuala Lumpur is an educational experience in disguise - pure play. Kids can test a range of careers in this miniaturized city, from being a doctor to a fireman-all forms of role-playing that will spur imagination and learning in a fun setting. Recommended for any family traveling with young children.

Inside the KidZania

Inside the KidZania (Source: Facebook)

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Best time to visit

In Petaling Jaya, the weather is classified as a tropical rainforest because it is warm and humid throughout the year. Its temperature is around 27°C to 32°C on average with showers-a typical characteristic of tropical places.

Thus, the best time to visit Petaling Jaya would be in the months of May and July or from December to February. This is because during these periods, the weather is pretty dry, thus enabling one to go about their outdoor activities without experiencing much interference from frequent rain. Nevertheless, consideration should be taken that, due to its tropical climate, a trip to Petaling Jaya can be taken at any time of the year.

Best time to visit Petaling Jaya

Best time to visit Petaling Jaya (Source: travelandleisureasia)

How to get there

By Air: The nearest airport to Petaling Jaya is the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), located about 50 kilometers south of the city.

By Train: The city is well-linked with Kuala Lumpur and other areas of Klang Valley through the MRTs and LRTs. Most stations in Petaling Jaya receive services under the Kelana Jaya Line of LRT, including Taman Jaya, Kelana Jaya, and Amcorp Mall.

By Bus: For budget travelers, buses are an affordable way to reach Petling Jaya. A number of intra-city and inter-city bus services traverse the city, while RapidKL operates mainly as an urban bus operator in the area.

Traveling by train to Petaling Jaya

Traveling by train to Petaling Jaya (Source: TopGear)

Conclusion

The city of Petaling Jaya speaks to a bit of everything, from world-class shopping and entertainment to tranquil parks and cultural hotspots. Easier to get around and more enjoyable practically any time of the year, it is little wonder that this city remains a popular destination for locals and international tourists alike.

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