Week 17 - 1st May '99

Jugra Hills: A Glimpse into Selangor's Historic Heart

Jugra holds a significant place in Selangor's history as the royal capital during the reign of Sultan Abdul Samad. In 1875, the Sultan established Istana Jugra (Jugra Palace) and relocated his seat of power there. Strategically positioned near the Straits of Malacca, Jugra was not located directly at the river mouth but remained easily accessible via the Langat River. Bukit Jugra, the prominent hill overlooking the low-lying mangrove swamps, served as a natural fortification and a landmark for navigators.

For centuries, Bukit Jugra guided mariners through the Straits of Malacca, earning mentions in Chinese, Arab, and European nautical charts. It was known among foreign sailors as Parcelar Hill, a name derived from its Arabic designation, balasar. During its heyday, Jugra briefly served as the center of British administration in Selangor. However, administrative power shifted to Klang and, later, Kuala Lumpur within a decade.

Sultan Abdul Samad resided in Jugra until his death in 1898. The following year, Sultan Alauddin Sulaiman Shah, later known as Sultan Sulaiman, was proclaimed here. This marked Jugra's final moment of royal prominence, as Sultan Sulaiman moved his official residence to Istana Alam Shah in Klang in 1905, ending Jugra's role as the royal seat. Subsequently, Jugra declined into a quiet backwater, with even Kuala Langat's administrative center relocating to Banting.

1 Jugra Hills

Attractions and Activities in Jugra

Today, Jugra remains a fascinating destination that blends history, nature, and adventure. Its well-preserved heritage buildings, lush green landscapes, and panoramic views of the Straits of Malacca captivate visitors. Highlights include the Insitu Jugra Museum, the Ammunition Store, the Old Well of Jugra, and the ruins of the Abandoned Jugra Palace—each offering a glimpse into the area's regal past.

Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers are drawn to Bukit Jugra, particularly for the hike to the Jugra Lighthouse. Starting near Masjid al-Muttaqin, the trail is moderately challenging, with a steep incline rewarded by vibrant greenery and stunning vistas. Reaching the top takes approximately an hour, and the historic Jugra Lighthouse, an iconic colonial-era structure, awaits as the trail's endpoint.

Beyond hiking, Jorge's serene surroundings exude an old-world charm. Its Permanent Reserved Forest and relatively untouched hinterland offer tranquillity, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Legacy of Bukit Jugra

Bukit Jugra is home to two lighthouses and a radar station. The older, taller lighthouse, constructed during the colonial period, once guided ships approaching Jugra. In its prime, Jugra bustled with trading activity, as boats and Chinese junks carried tin along Sungei Langat, stopping to pay taxes before continuing to the coast.

 Today, while development has largely bypassed the area, Jugra's peaceful atmosphere and spacious layout are treasured by many. Its quiet charm serves as a reminder of Selangor’s rich history, offering a glimpse into the past while embracing the tranquillity of the present.

2 Restaurants

But first we needed our lunch at this Viking restaurant and then a good souvenir of the lighthouse on top of the hill.

3 Prison

It was not a wasted detour as we got to see this dilapidated jailhouse of yesteryears. Most of all a gigantic tree that grew on its wall.

 

4 Carey Island

 

We could see much scenic and panoramic sight from this high ground. A long lonely road moves gradually up to the forested summit that is a now a security area for the Air Force.

5 More of Carey Island view

6 Panoramic view

Across the island a solitary hill stand watch. This is the 795 feet tall Bukit Jugra.

Now for a  bird’s eye view of the island and the river mouth.

7 Double Lighthouses

At the foot of the hill, the area was utilized as a Chinese cemetery. Further up on some vantage point, the lighthouse and the Radar station.

 

8 Good Weather

9 Road going uphill

10 Aerail view of Carey Island and the coast

10 We bumped into a local event

11 Joyce taking part

12 Good sporting spirit

The coastal plain of Selangor is totally flat except for 3 low hill locks. Bukit Jugra is the largest and tallest among all. For miles around this is the only spot that offers tropical forest on slopes. hence it is an enclave for forest edge birds. With frequent visit birds for an individual would gradually grows

For us this trip took us to an exotic and isolated spot in Selangor Very rewarding! For me in particular the picture for the Jail is exceptional, since then that ruin was flattened perpetually

 

Khong's Travel Guide