01/05/2026

LYFE FRIDAY | MAY 1, 2026

12

One-day trip guide to Seremban o Seven fun things to do in Negeri Sembilan’s capital

T HOUGH it may be no Malacca or George Town, Seremban, the capital city of Negeri Sembilan, has a certain level of charm that should not be dismissed out of hand.

Ű BY NOEL WONG YAN MING

Thus, Seremban is a perfect destination should you crave a one-day trip with no overnight stays, as the city has quite a few tourist magnets and hidden gems worth exploring.

Centipede Temple Perched on a lofty hill overlooking north Seremban, Centipede Temple is possibly Seremban’s most famous Chinese temple, built in 1869. Formally known as the Then Tze Temple, the temple gets its famous nickname after the multi-legged insect which is the subject of the temple’s founding legend. According to the story, a young man left home in search of fame and fortune, neglecting to care for his elderly mother. As punishment for his dereliction of filial duties, the gods transformed the man into a rock. His mother would go on to be reincarnated as a centipede, afterwards seen scuttling around and over the rock to never be faraway from her son.

Seremban Heritage Trail Founded over a century ago, Seremban was the administrative capital of Negeri Sembilan even back during the colonial era. Thus, there are quite a few buildings that have been standing since yesteryear, oftentimes with a fresh coat of paint and an otherwise untouched facade. To explore and see these classic works of architecture yourself, you can follow the Seremban Heritage Trail, laid out by the city council. The trail begins at the Seremban Railway Station, taking you through the centre of the old town, before depositing you at the foot of the aforementioned rubber tree.

Jelita Ostrich Farm Did you know that Seremban is home to Malaysia’s first-ever ostrich farm? Located just outside the city, Jelita Ostrich Farm was opened in 1997 by a former banker who found a new passion for agrotourism and environmentalism. If you have never interacted with the world’s largest species of bird up close, Jelita is the best place to start. The 4.2ha farm is home to about 30 ostriches, which you can feed, touch and even ride!

Pasar Karat Lorong Seni On Friday and weekend nights, Lorong Seni Seremban closes to traffic for a flea market. Here, you can find all sorts of kitschy souvenirs, valuable antiques, pre-loved clothes and used electronics being sold for cheap prices. If you love haggling, this is the best place and opportunity to put your negotiation skills to the test. There are also roadside food stalls for you to buy snacks and even supper before calling it a night.

Tuanku Ja’afar Royal Gallery Located on the park grounds is the Tuanku Ja’afar Royal Gallery, dedicated to the life of the late Tuanku Ja’afar, a Negeri Sembilan’s previous Yang di-Pertuan Besar and Malaysia’s 10th Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The gallery was a brainchild of the man himself, who wanted a place to showcase and preserve his state’s unique cultural heritage. Housed within a building styled after colonial era architecture, the ground floor of the gallery tells visitors the story of Tuanku Ja’afar. The upper floor has an exhibition themed around the Negeri Sembilan royals and Minangkabau culture. A visit here is perfect for folks who like their trips a little more educational.

Lorong Seni Seremban Have a taste for street art? Head on over to Lorong Seni Seremban, which is actually Malaysia’s longest art alley! The street stretches for over 1km and features more than 50 murals, most designed and produced by local talents. Today, it is one of Seremban’s most visited tourist attractions. The 50 murals depict various parts of Negeri Sembilan’s heritage, including pop culture references as well as traditional arts. One of the most prominent murals features a tribute to David Arumugam, the late lead singer of legendary Malaysian band Alleycats.

Seremban Lake Garden While Taiping may be the Malaysian city most famous for it parks, Seremban Lake Garden is nothing to sneeze at, being a popular picnic and hangout spot for locals. Equal parts picturesque and peaceful, the park is ideal for a stroll after a heavy lunch. History aficionados might be interested to visit a certain inhabitant in the park. Seremban’s, and possibly Malaysia’s, oldest rubber tree still stands tall here, unmoving since 1877. Though the tree itself is fenced off, visitors are more than welcome to snap a photo of it.