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If you live in the heart of KL and don’t have time to drive 4 hours away to catch the Perseid Meteor shower, here are 3 prime spots just outside of KL where you can watch it:
The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year, and tonight it will reach its peak with up to 60 to 100 meteors per hour streaking across the sky.
Often referred to as “the fireballs of summer,” the Perseid meteor shower promises an awe-inspiring experience, but if you live in the heart of a large city like KL, chances are you’ll barely get to see it without trees, apartment buildings, clouds, and light pollution obscuring your view.
Planetarium Negara has issued a statement providing 4 great spots in Malaysia where you can watch the Perseid meteor shower. However, 3 of them are in other states (Perak, Sabah and Pahang), and one more is in Kepong.
What if you live in the heart of KL and don’t have the time to drive 3-4 hours away to see it? Fret not, as we have 3 more spots in KL that you can go which are less than an hour’s drive away from Klang Valley:
#1 KL Forest Eco Park
Image via The Culture Trip.
KL Forest Eco Park is a hidden gem within the city, providing a dense canopy that blocks out much of the urban light, giving you a clearer view of the night sky.
The park offers ample space, allowing you to spread out a mat and gaze up at the stars without being disturbed by the city’s bright lights.
Although it’s located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the park’s natural surroundings create a surprisingly serene environment perfect for a night of stargazing.
#2 Bukit Tabur, Taman Melawati
Images via Ishavizan.
While KL Forest Eco Park is a great choice, Bukit Tabur in Taman Melawati offers an elevated view away from the city lights, making it another excellent spot to catch the meteor shower. The climb is a bit challenging, but the panoramic view at the top is well worth the effort.
Bukit Tabur is situated in the north-east of KL, close to Gombak. For those living in Ampang or Cheras, this is the closest place you can go without leaving KL.
#3 Kuala Kubu Dam, Kuala Kubu Bharu
Image via The Star.
If you’re willing to venture a bit further out, Kuala Kubu Dam is an exceptional location for stargazing, just about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, 15 minutes away from Rawang in north Selangor. This serene spot, surrounded by nothing but mountains and rivers makes it an ideal place to witness the Perseid meteor shower in all its glory.
The expansive sky over the dam, coupled with the peaceful environment, provides a perfect setting for a memorable stargazing experience. The dam area is spacious, allowing you to set up a comfortable viewing spot with a mat or camping chair.
Given its distance from the city, the sky here is usually much clearer, offering a better chance to see even the fainter meteors. Consider bringing along some snacks, hot drinks, and blankets to make the experience even more enjoyable.
What to pack for your star-gazing experience
Stargazing might seem like a simple experience, but most people don’t know that it can get a little chilly at night, especially when you’re closer to nature. That’s why a little preparation can go a long way.
The Perseid meteor shower occurs during the cool early morning hours, so it’s a good idea to bring along a jacket or blanket to keep warm. A mat or lawn chair will make the experience more comfortable, allowing you to relax and enjoy the show without straining your neck.
Don’t forget to pack some hot drinks like coffee or tea to keep you warm and awake during the night. An umbrella might also come in handy in case there’s a chance of rain.
Speaking of weather, the forecast for Monday, August 12th, 2024, predicts mostly clear skies with a 20% chance of rain. However, clouds might roll in late in the night, so it’s best to start your stargazing early, around 10 PM.
Capturing the moment: Can you record it on an iPhone?
For those wondering if they can capture the moment on their smartphones, the answer is yes, with a bit of effort. While iPhones may not have the high-end capabilities of a DSLR camera, they can still take decent photos of the meteor shower.
To increase your chances of success, use a tripod to stabilize your phone and set it to night mode. Lowering the exposure and using the time-lapse feature can help you capture more meteors in a single shot.
However, the best way to experience the Perseid meteor shower is with your own eyes. The sheer number of meteors and their speed across the sky make it a spectacle best enjoyed live, without the distraction of trying to record it.
In summary, whether you choose to watch the Perseid meteor shower from Kepong, Bukit Tabur, or any other spot in Kuala Lumpur, you’re in for a treat.
With the right preparation and a bit of luck with the weather, you’ll witness one of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena of the year.
So grab your mat, some hot drinks, and maybe a few friends, and head out after 10pm to take in the beauty of the universe unfolding above you!
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