Beautiful pavilion in Putrajaya lets Malaysians 'escape' to Morocco

Located within the Botanical Gardens, the Moroccan Pavilion is designed to showcase the rich arts and architecture of Morocco. — Tourism Malaysia

* The movement control order is currently in place in Malaysia, with stricter SOP and regulations introduced. While we can’t travel now, we can always plan for future holidays.

IT takes about 14 hours to fly to Morocco from Malaysia. But with international borders still closed, the next best option for a Middle Eastern holiday during this pandemic can be found at the administrative capital of the country.

Hidden within the Putrajaya Botanical Gardens is the Moroccan Pavilion, a fantastical venue that gives visitors the impression they are in the “Santorini of Africa”.

The monument – built as a gesture of cultural exchange between Malaysia and Morocco – features beautiful Moroccan-inspired architecture.

Also known as Astaka Morocco, the stunning building took two years to complete. Stepping inside, one would find the distinctive architectural features of Morocco perfectly replicated.

That uncanny resemblance is due to the fact that building materials were imported from the north African country. Marvel at the colourful mosaic arrangements and intricate carvings of geometric patterns.

Fans of Islamic architecture might also delight in the Arabic calligraphy and arabesque design.

The master plan of the pavilion follows the Moroccan tradition of movement from the public to private realms through gardens.

There are four different galleries to be explored here, each of them resembling old imperial cities in Morocco. Within the pavilion are also a beautiful set of pools and fountains that lend a tranquil vibe to the place.

Once you are done exploring the pavilion, step out to the botanical garden for more scenic views of the surrounding greenery. The walkway outside the pavilion will greet one with views of vivid blooms and the nearby Putrajaya Lake.

If anything, the Moroccan Pavilion is a great place for some peace and quiet. Relax to the sound of cascading water from the pool and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

The venue is also great for photography and architecture enthusiasts. The dazzling designs will provide hours of fascinating discovery.

It’s also a perfect venue for wedding photography. The archway before the entrance for one, is a great spot for that memorable shot.

Entrance to the pavilion is free, but there’s a fee of RM3 and RM1 – for adults and children, respectively – in order to enter the gallery room.

Getting there

The Moroccan Pavilion is located in Putrajaya and the quickest way to get from Kuala Lumpur is to ride the KLIA Transit (not the KLIA Express) train. From the station, book an e-hailling service.

If you don’t mind the drive, then being in your own vehicle would give you better mobility to explore other attractions in the area.

Moroccan Pavilion

Putrajaya Botanical Gardens,

Lebuh Perdana Barat,

Precinct 1,62000,

Putrajaya