A traditional village along the western coast of peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Selangor is surrounded by lush, rugged mountains and built around the winding, palm-tree-lined course of the mighty River Selangor. The gleaming white Altingsburg Lighthouse, built in 1907, stands high above the town on the Bukit Melawati hill, where it guides maritime traffic in the Straits of Malacca. Traces of the Kota Melawati fort, which dates back to the 16th century, also remain on the hill, and you may pass silver leaf monkeys in the trees as you take in the captivating views of the coastal region.

Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a nearly 800-acre site, features a mangrove swamp forest and a colorful array of native birds and animals, including iguanas and monkeys. As night falls, travel along the River Selangor to catch the spectacular display of the fireflies in the berembang mangrove trees. During the day, head across the water to the uncharted island called Sky Mirror, which only appears at low tide and creates a dazzling mirror reflection for seemingly impossible photographs.

The weather in Kuala Selangor remains hot and humid throughout the year, and rain is possible at any time due to its tropical climate, but particularly during the northeast monsoon season, from around November to March. The busiest time of year is during the summer months, from June to August. There are events all year-round in nearby Kuala Lumpur, such as the Hindu festival of Thaipusam, which takes place outside the Batu Caves each winter and celebrates Malaysian folklore and tradition. Be aware that if you want to visit Sky Mirror island, check your calendar: Because it is so heavily dependent on the tides, Sky Mirror can only be reached at certain times of each month.

Kuala Selangor Historical Museum

Housed in the former residence of the district officer, the Kuala Selangor Historical Museum is located at the top of the Bukit Melawati hill, overlooking the town. You can learn about how Kuala Selangor developed into an important trading center for tin and discover a variety of archeological artifacts, historical objects, and interactive exhibits.

Sri Shakti Temple

A striking 74-foot-tall gateway with five tiers and intricate carvings welcomes you to the Sri Shakti Temple on the outskirts of Kuala Selangor. This Hindu temple is surrounded by an ornate stone wall, and 18-foot-tall granite frames stand beside the temple entrance. Among the statues you’ll find inside are those of a baby elephant and a lion made from a single block of granite.

Kampung Kuantan Firefly Park

Take a ride on a traditional wooden sampan boat along the River Selangor in the early evening to witness one of nature’s light shows at the Kampung Kuantan Firefly Park. The fireflies, or “kelip-kelip,” as they are known locally, come to the berembang mangroves at dusk, where they feed on tree sap and emit light to attract a mate.