Serendah, Selangor
Serendah is a semi-rural town located in the Hulu Selangor District of Selangor, situated approximately 10 km north of Rawang and 50 km from Kuala Lumpur. Known for its lush surroundings and tranquil atmosphere, Serendah is home to natural attractions such as the Serendah Waterfalls and several Orang Asli villages. In recent years, it has seen gradual urbanisation due to its proximity to the expanding Rawang and Bukit Beruntung corridors. 1
Quick Facts
- District: Hulu Selangor
- Coordinates: 3.380°N, 101.605°E
- Known for: Serendah Waterfalls, Orang Asli settlements, and forest retreats
- Major expressways nearby: North–South Expressway (E1) and LATAR Expressway (E25)
- Local authority: Majlis Perbandaran Hulu Selangor (MPHS)
History and Background
Serendah has historically been a settlement of the Temuan people, one of the indigenous groups of Peninsular Malaysia. The town’s name, meaning “low-lying land” in Malay, reflects its geographical position in a valley surrounded by forested hills. During the British colonial period, Serendah was primarily an agricultural area producing rubber, cocoa, and oil palm. 2
Like other towns in Hulu Selangor, Serendah developed along the old trunk road connecting Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh. Its population remained modest until the late 20th century, when nearby Rawang began expanding into a suburban-industrial hub. 3
Geography and Setting
Serendah lies in a green valley flanked by the Titiwangsa foothills. The Sungai Serendah and Sungai Selangor rivers flow nearby, supporting both local agriculture and water supply. The town consists of several residential clusters, small commercial centres, and villages such as Kampung Seri Serendah and Kampung Orang Asli Serendah. 4
The surrounding area is also known for forest retreats and eco-resorts that attract visitors seeking quiet weekend getaways close to Kuala Lumpur. 5
Development and Economy
Serendah’s economy historically revolved around small-scale agriculture, particularly rubber and oil palm estates. Today, light industries and service sectors have gained importance, especially with the establishment of UEM Sunrise’s Serendah Industrial Park and other developments near the Rawang–Serendah corridor. 6
The town benefits from good connectivity through the Rawang Bypass and its proximity to the North–South Expressway (E1), which links it to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang. Access to the LATAR Expressway (E25) further enhances its logistical value. 7
Attractions and Landmarks
- Serendah Waterfalls (Taman Eko Rimba Serendah) – a popular picnic and recreational spot surrounded by rainforest.
- Orang Asli Villages – settlements offering cultural insight into the Temuan way of life.
- Serendah Recreational Forest – a forest park featuring walking trails and swimming spots.
- The Retreat at Balik Kampung and Glasshouse Retreats – eco-resorts nestled in the forested outskirts of Serendah.
- Serendah Train Station – part of the KTM Komuter network, connecting Serendah to Rawang and Kuala Lumpur.
Connectivity and Transportation
Serendah is served by the KTM Komuter line, which links the town directly to Rawang, Batu Caves, and Kuala Lumpur Sentral. The Rawang Bypass and nearby North–South Expressway (E1) provide fast access by car. The LATAR Expressway (E25) offers an alternative route to Kuala Selangor and the Klang Valley. 8
Tourism and Lifestyle
Tourism in Serendah focuses on nature and relaxation. The town’s eco-friendly lodges and scenic waterfalls attract visitors looking to escape city life. While modern amenities are available in nearby Rawang, Serendah retains its village charm, with traditional eateries, small shops, and local markets serving its residents. 9
Serendah is 
on the Map of Towns in Selangor
References
- Wikipedia – Serendah
- Majlis Perbandaran Hulu Selangor (MPHS)
- Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM)
- Tourism Malaysia – Serendah
- UEM Sunrise – Serendah Industrial Park
- Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia
- TripAdvisor – Serendah Attractions
- LATAR Expressway
- Serendah Tourism Portal
