Taman Dusun Bandar

Kuala Lumpur, a city renowned for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, also holds a surprising number of serene green spaces that offer a welcome escape from the urban rush. Among these, Taman Dusun Bandar, often referred to as the Urban Orchard Park, stands out as a true hidden gem. For locals in Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, this park provides a tranquil sanctuary, a breath of fresh air, and a unique natural experience right within the city.

More than just a park, Taman Dusun Bandar is a carefully curated urban orchard designed to educate visitors about various tropical fruit trees while offering a beautiful setting for relaxation and recreation. Despite its central location, it remains remarkably peaceful and less crowded than some of the more well-known parks, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet retreat or a picturesque backdrop for family outings.

Taman Dusun Bandar is strategically situated in Bukit Petaling, part of the vibrant Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. Its address is TM Bukit Petaling, 121, Lorong Bellamy, Istana Negara, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This location places it conveniently close to the former Istana Negara, the old National Palace, adding a touch of historical grandeur to its surroundings.

While some might find its main entrance discreetly tucked away behind a Malay restaurant, the park actually boasts multiple entry points, including at its back and side, allowing for various access options. Its relative seclusion contributes to its peaceful ambiance, as fewer people are generally aware of this charming spot. Despite being a 'hidden gem,' it is not difficult to reach, being in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can access it via various modes of transport, including ride-sharing services, taxis, or personal vehicles. Ample parking is often available, making it convenient for families planning a visit. The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entry is completely free, making it an accessible and affordable option for everyone.

Taman Dusun Bandar offers a range of services and facilities, catering to both casual visitors and those looking to host special events:

• Park Management and Maintenance: The park is managed by DBKL (Kuala Lumpur City Hall), ensuring it is well-maintained with neatly mown lawns, clean facilities, and working amenities.
• Event Venue Rental: One of the park's notable services is the availability of its meeting halls and outdoor spaces for rent. This makes it a sought-after location for various outdoor gatherings, including:
  • Garden Weddings: Imagine saying "I do" amidst lush greenery.
  • Family Day Celebrations: Perfect for large family gatherings with plenty of open space for activities.
  • Outdoor Gatherings: Ideal for social events, corporate team-building, or community functions.
  • Photo and Movie Shoots: The picturesque landscape provides an excellent backdrop for professional photography and videography.

  Permissions from the relevant authorities (DBKL) are required for these events, and fees may apply for hall rentals or filming activities. It's advisable to apply at least 30 days in advance for any planned events.

• Clean Facilities: Visitors can benefit from clean and free toilet facilities, a crucial amenity for any public park.
• Educational Opportunities: As an urban orchard, the park offers an educational experience. Many of the fruit trees are labeled with descriptions, often in Bahasa Malaysia, detailing their food or medicinal uses, providing insights into local flora.

Taman Dusun Bandar is rich in features that make it a delightful place to visit:

• Extensive Collection of Tropical Fruit Trees: True to its name, the park is home to a vast collection of tropical fruit trees, offering a unique opportunity to see and learn about various Malaysian fruit species. While some reports suggest as many as 1900 species, even a smaller number ensures a rich botanical experience. Observed species include tampoi (Baccaurea reticulata), mata kucing (Dimocarpus longan), soursop (Annona muricata), pomelo (Citrus maxima), starfruit (Averrhoa carambola), belimbing buluh (Averrhoa bilimbi), and pulasan (Nephelium rambutan).
• Lush Greenery and Landscaped Gardens: The park is beautifully landscaped with expansive green lawns, providing ample space for relaxation and strolls. The overall design creates a serene and picturesque environment.
• Man-Made Lake with Footbridges: A narrow man-made lake with charming footbridges adds to the park's aesthetic appeal, offering tranquil water features and pleasant spots for contemplation.
• Zigzag Bridge: A distinctive zigzag bridge, designed as a modern interpretation of those found in traditional Chinese gardens, serves as a unique architectural highlight and a popular spot for photos.
• Children's Playground: For families with young ones, a small children's playground is available, ensuring kids have a dedicated space to play and enjoy themselves.
• Jogging and Walking Paths: Well-maintained paths wind through the park, perfect for those looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk, or a refreshing jog amidst nature.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: One of the most advantageous points, as noted by visitors, is the park's tranquility. It is often less crowded, making it a genuinely peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
• Scenic Views: The park offers good sightlines, including a view of the iconic Merdeka Tower, providing a unique juxtaposition of urban architecture against natural greenery.
• Bee Colonies: The park maintains bee colonies, contributing to the natural pollination of the fruit trees and highlighting its commitment to ecological balance.

As a public park managed by DBKL, Taman Dusun Bandar does not typically run promotional campaigns in the same way commercial businesses do. However, its primary "special offer" is its free admission for all visitors, making it an incredibly accessible and value-for-money recreational spot for everyone in Kuala Lumpur.

For those interested in utilizing the park for events, the rental fees for halls and filming permits are clearly defined and publicly available through DBKL. For example, hall rental is RM 50 per hour (with a minimum of 5 hours), and photo/movie shoots are RM 200 for half-day (7:00 AM to 1:00 PM) or RM 400 for a whole day (7:00 AM to 7:00 PM). These transparent rates make planning events straightforward and affordable compared to many private venues in the city.

For inquiries, event bookings, or general information regarding Taman Dusun Bandar, you can reach out using the following details:

Address: TM Bukit Petaling, 121, Lorong Bellamy, Istana Negara, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Phone: 016-600 0715
Mobile Phone: +60 16-600 0715
For formal inquiries or event permissions, it is recommended to contact Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) directly as they manage the park and its facilities. Their contact details for reservations are: Tel: 03 – 2617 6394, Fax: 03 – 2698 3850, Email: jlr@dbkl.gov.my.

Taman Dusun Bandar is an ideal destination for locals in Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur for numerous reasons. Firstly, its status as a hidden gem means it offers a much-needed respite from the often-crowded public spaces in KL. Visitors can truly enjoy a sense of peace and quiet, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility or a calm environment for personal reflection.

Secondly, its free entry makes it an incredibly accessible and economical option for families, friends, and individuals looking to spend quality time outdoors without breaking the bank. Whether you're planning a casual picnic, a morning jog, or simply a leisurely stroll, you can do so without any admission fees.

The park's unique identity as an urban orchard provides an engaging educational experience, particularly for children, allowing them to learn about local flora in a natural setting. This aspect sets it apart from typical recreational parks, adding an enriching dimension to a visit.

Furthermore, its suitability for family picnics (with prior permission from the garden officer) and various outdoor events like garden weddings and family days offers versatile usage for the community. The availability of clean facilities, including toilets, enhances the overall comfort and convenience for visitors.

Finally, the picturesque surroundings, complete with a serene lake, charming bridges, and even a view of the Merdeka Tower, provide ample opportunities for photography and enjoying nature's beauty right in the heart of the city. Taman Dusun Bandar truly embodies a tranquil urban oasis, making it a perfect spot for KL residents to reconnect with nature, relax, and create lasting memories.

Taman Dusun Bandar

TM Bukit Petaling, 121, Lorong Bellamy, Istana Negara, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia