Less than an hour away from Kuala Lumpur lies Seremban, the capital city of Negeri Sembilan. Seremban may not be a popular destination among travellers, but the city actually has so much to offer. Home to the Minangkabau architecture and traditional shophouses, the town is bursting with tasty local delicacies for you to indulge in. Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas for that long-overdue weekend getaway.

Taman Tasik Seremban: Waking up to nature

Also known as the Seremban Lake Garden, Taman Tasik Seremban is one of the oldest natural lake gardens in the country. The 10-acre park is strategically located in the centre of the city, with a paved walkway for you to stroll along the lake. You might even get the chance to catch cultural performances on the floating stage on some days.

The idea of waking up to the sounds of nature can be a tranquil and priceless experience, away from the concrete jungle in town. Why not consider staying at one of the hotels near the lake? Located 2 km away is the Royale Chulan Seremban, a 4-star resort with a full-service spa and restaurant facilities. Klana Resort Seremban is another great option nearby.

Address: Jalan Taman Bunga, Taman Tasek Seremban, 70000 Negeri Sembilan.

Negeri Sembilan State Museum: Discover history and culture of Seremban

The Negeri Sembilan State Museum, located on Jalan Sungai Ujong, makes a perfect escape for any history buff. If you are looking for Insta-worthy photos, you can take plenty here. Take your time browsing through the exhibits showcasing numerous artefacts, including replicas of the Pengkalan Kempas Megaliths, housing an old well and old boats.

While you are there, don’t forget to visit the Ampang Tinggi Palace and Rumah Negeri Sembilan to discover the beauty of Minangkabau architecture. You can enter both buildings via short ladders. Inside, you will find a glimpse of old furniture and how the people used to live back in the day.

Address: Jalan Sungai Ujong, Lebuhraya Seremban – Bukit Nenas, 70200 Negeri Sembilan.

Operating Hours: 9am – 6pm

Al-Saadah Complex: When East meets East

On my first visit to the Al-Saadah Complex, I was stumped for words. Despite its Chinese temple exterior and beautifully landscaped courtyard, the complex actually serves as an Islamic centre for the local community, specifically the Chinese Muslims and new Muslims. Located on Jalan Mufti Ahmad, the compound is hard to miss thanks to its striking red painting and Chinese architecture.

Address: 5413, Jalan Mufti Ahmad, Bandar Seremban, 70100 Negeri Sembilan.

Jelita Ostrich Farm: Meet the largest living bird in the world

Looking for a fun and educational experience? Jelita Ostrich Farm offers visitors a fascinating insight into the life of charming ostriches. Get up close and personal by feeding an ostrich and touching its egg. If you are up for an exciting meal, prepare yourself for a once in a lifetime ostrich meal. The entrance fees are on the affordable range, and even though this is an ostrich farm, they also have ducks, geese, turkeys, goats and horses. You can easily spend an hour or more here, and the farm provides a guide to bring you around. Don’t forget to get some souvenirs for your loved ones!

As for finding the perfect place to stay, consider booking a nature retreat cabin at the highly acclaimed The Dusun. This tropical rainforest resort offers a unique accommodation with interesting activities.

Address: Lot 1504, Batu 6,Mukim 70100, Pantai, Negeri Sembilan, Jalan Jelebu, 71770 Negeri Sembilan.

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Food Escapades: Let your tummy guide you

Saving the best for last, no weekend getaway can ever be complete without a full-blown gastronomy adventure. Minangkabau-style dishes are a staple here, whereby popular dishes such as masak lemak cili padi, gulai tempoyak pucuk ubi and sambal gesek are enough to set your taste buds on fire.

Although it is also available in other parts of Malaysia, Seremban is the original home of siew pow. The crispy, flaky baked pastry bun and other equally satisfying pastries can be found at Empayar Seremban Siew Pau and Kedai Siew Pau Asia. Bring home a box or two to share with family and friends!

Empayar Seremban Siew Pau

Address: LLower Ground, LG1-57, Jalan Besar TBK 4, Pasar Besar Negeri Sembilan, Taman Bukit Kepayang, 70200, Negeri Sembilan.

Opening Hours: 11am – 11.30pm

Kedai Siew Pau Asia

Address: 368, Jalan Seng Meng Lee, Taman Unian, 70200 Negeri Sembilan.

Opening Hours: 7am – 6.30pm

Haji Shariff Cendol

Feeling the heat from your weekend getaway? Cool down with a bowl of refreshing cendol. Located at Jalan Yam Tuan with a history dating back to 1930, Haji Shariff Cendol is known to serve the best Jawa cendol in town. Whether you choose to dine in or takeaway, a visit here is definitely a must for all cendol lovers.

There are also a handful of eateries offering some of the best local fares in Pasar Seremban. Scout around for beef noodles, mee hoon sotong or Hakka Mee there!

Haji Shariff Cendol

Address: 44, Jalan Yam Tuan, Bandar Seremban, 70000 Negeri Sembilan.

Opening Hours: 10.30am – 6.30pm . Closed on Fridays.

Pasar Seremban

Address: Jalan Pasar, Bandar Seremban, 70000 Negeri Sembilan.

What else are you waiting for? It’s time to plan for a quick getaway to Seremban!