Located on the north-west coast of the island, the jungle setting of the Tropical Spice Garden, a former rubber plantation, is home to over 500 species of plants and animals, as well as dozens of different herbs and spices which you’ll be able to smell as their scents fill the air. Rub your fingers on the leaves of some of these pungent plants to appreciate their spicy scent as you walk past. Stroll among the magnificent palms, ferns and other flora as you take in the scent of the ginger flowers or the curry plants.
To explore the 3 hectare site, head out on one of the three trails that take you to different areas of the garden. Each one will take about half an hour to walk and there are informative signs about the culinary and medicinal uses of the various plants along the way.
Take the Ornamental Trail to see stunning exotic plants. The Jungle Trail is lined with ferns, palms and orchids. In the garden rooms dotted around the trails you’ll find more about the varieties that can be found along the way. Guided tours are also available throughout the day at a modest charge if you want to know more.
Once you’ve learned all about the herbs and spices, you can put your knowledge to good use in one of available the cooking classes that will teach you how to create a typical Malaysian dish with the help of an expert chef. Alternatively if you want to leave the cooking to the professionals, pay a visit to the Tree Monkey Restaurant close to the visitor centre. Here, you’ll be able to dine accompanied by great coastal views.
The jungle is of course shaded, though all the same afternoons here can be very hot and humid. Bring appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear for walking the sometimes steep paths, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Situated near the Teluk Balang coast just beyond Batu Ferranghi, the Tropical Spice Garden opens every day. It costs you to enter, and you’ll have to pay extra to try the cooking class or to take a guided tour.
