Thankfully, there are some parts of the Federal Territory dedicated to a “greener” way of life.
Termed Malaysia’s first “intelligent garden city”, Putrajaya is one such place, with 38% of its land area reserved for greenery.
While it also serves as the federal administrative capital of the country, it is the expansive Putrajaya Lake here, covering approximately 12% of the area, that fascinates locals and tourists the most.
But now, one other spot, the breathtaking Taman Saujana Hijau, is proving to be a draw for nature lovers as well.
Conceptualised as Malaysia’s answer to “Salem High Country”, the 41-hectare park is covered in pine and cypress trees, giving one the feeling of trekking through the mountainous regions of Europe.
Nature lovers will also notice that Taman Saujana Hijau is surrounded by Gymnosperm plants such as junipers, thuja pines and cycads, as well as a profusion of English garden flowers.
Beautiful as these plants and flowers are, it is the park’s picturesque European, Oriental and English gardens that are the main attractions here.
The European Garden, situated on the highest of three hills, affords the visitor gorgeous views of the landscape below as well as a clear view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline far beyond.
Its European-style pavilion, built next to an open lawn, is picture-perfect, with dangling foliage adding a rustic touch to its simple beauty.
The Oriental Garden is just as serene and beautiful. Here a pagoda-style pavilion with low benches makes for the perfect spot to either rest your tired legs as you take in the views or catch your breath after a long walk.
It comes as no surprise that almost every spot in the park is Instagram-worthy, and many members of the public seem to agree.
During a visit here, FMT Lifestyle encountered three different wedding parties having their big day photographed for posterity.
One bride, Rachel Ong said: “It’s so beautiful here and it suits the theme for our wedding, hence why we came today.”
Ong did have one gripe with the park, though: a lack of clear signage on where each themed-garden is located. Truth be told, the sprawling grounds and winding paths are a tad confusing, especially for those new to the park.
However, if you prefer to go with the flow and let the path ahead decide your time here, you’ll still find that your visit here was well spent.
Apart from the gardens, there is a tranquil 2.8km trail perfect for a stroll or a jog.
One jogger who comes to the park almost every day is Fairul Mahat.
Other than its scenic trails, Fairul, 43, said the sheer size of the park meant that it never felt over-crowded. “I like that even during times when there are lots of visitors, the park doesn’t feel crowded because it’s so spacious.”
With such a sprawling design, the park would take you over one hour to fully explore, but rest assured that the views along the way are well worth your time.
Clearly this park is a great spot for families to spend a relaxing day as one Madam Ooi did on a fine weekday morning. She was with her mother, who’s visiting from Butterworth.
“My husband and I come here regularly, especially on weekends, as it’s not too far for us from Puchong,” she told FMT Lifestyle.
Ooi shared a tip for the fitness-conscious who come here: apparently, walking two rounds along the main trail will earn you a total of 10,000 steps – pretty impressive!
So what are you waiting for? A trip to Taman Saujana Hijau this weekend is surely a must. And come with the family too.
Taman Saujana Hijau
Jalan P11, Presint 11
62000 Putrajaya
Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya
Opening hours: 7am-7pm daily
Admission and parking: Free
For location, click here.