Batu Caves

The Batu Caves is a popular travel designation in KL. Apparently even more popular on the holiday we were there for. It was an awesome opportunity to go to the caves on this holiday. We think that nearly every Hindu in KL and the surrounding area was probably there. It was crowded, but not the same as China crowded. We think because the people are bigger here, felt more crowded :) It was also extremely hot!

Some people (I don't know all the traditions of this holiday) fast for some days, then they pierce themselves in unique places. Most common through both cheeks. Some men carry large... Hmm... Not sure how to call them, just look at the pictures) up the mountain. Others (mostly men, some girl children too) shave their head and paint them orange. Hopefully you can understand it more by the pictures...

Picture 1: the mountain they climbed. It was packed full! We could not go up. Usually there is room.

Picture 2: the things some men carried.

Picture 3: can you see the girl's mouth? It has a piercing in. It goes all the way through to her other side. Sort of like a bull's piercing, but it's in the mouth.