PUTRAJAYA: THE GARDEN CITY & WETLAND SANCTUARY
Putrajaya is Malaysia’s visionary administrative capital, designed as a "Garden City" where 38% of the area is dedicated to green spaces and water bodies. Beyond its iconic architecture, Putrajaya is home to the largest man-made freshwater wetlands in the tropics, serving as a critical urban ecosystem and a premier destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
PUTRAJAYA WETLANDS PARK (TAMAN WETLAND)
Recognized as an eco-tourism highlight, the Putrajaya Wetlands act as a natural filtration system for the city’s lake. It has evolved into a thriving habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
- Avian Diversity: Over 200 species of birds have been recorded, including the Painted Stork, Grey Heron, and various species of Kingfishers and Bee-eaters.
- The Lookout Tower: An 18-meter high tower offering panoramic views of the wetlands—ideal for spotting raptors and waterbirds.
- Nature Interpretation Centre (NIC): An educational hub providing deep insights into the wetland ecosystem and the importance of freshwater conservation.
KEY ECO-TOURISM ATTRACTIONS
- Botanical Garden (Taman Botani): Located at the northern end of Precinct 1, it is the largest botanical garden in Malaysia, housing over 750 species of plants from different continents.
- Putrajaya Lake: A 650-hectare lake designed for recreational activities. It provides a stunning backdrop for the city’s architectural landmarks like the Putra Mosque and the Seri Wawasan Bridge.
- Agriculture Heritage Park (Taman Warisan Pertanian): An interactive park showcasing Malaysia’s commercial crops, including rubber, cocoa, and various tropical fruit trees.
ACTIVITIES
- Birdwatching: Putrajaya is a "hotspot" for urban birding. The best viewing times are early morning or late afternoon along the wetland dykes.
- Lake Cruises: Traditional boat (sampan) or modern cruise options are available to explore the city from the water.
- Cycling: Extensive dedicated cycling paths connect all major parks, making it one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Southeast Asia.
GETTING THERE
Putrajaya is strategically located between Kuala Lumpur and KLIA (approx. 25 km from both).
- By Rail: The KLIA Transit (ERL) connects KL Sentral to Putrajaya/Cyberjaya Station in just 20 minutes.
- By Road: Easily accessible via the MEX Highway, North-South Expressway, or LDP.