Introduction
Located within the verdant Putrajaya Botanical Garden, the Moroccan Pavilion Putrajaya, or Astaka Morocco, is one of Malaysia’s most picturesque and culturally rich architectural attractions. This landmark was built to celebrate the strong diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Morocco, offering visitors a glimpse into North African craftsmanship and Islamic-Moorish architecture without leaving Southeast Asia.
About the Moroccan Pavilion Putrajaya
Spanning 18,000 square feet, the Moroccan Pavilion was completed after two years of meticulous construction. All the materials were imported from Morocco, and skilled Moroccan artisans were involved in the design and construction to ensure authenticity.
The pavilion recreates the distinctive features of Morocco’s imperial cities like Marrakech, Fez, Meknes, and Rabat, showcasing exquisite mosaic tiles, arabesque carvings, Arabic calligraphy, and cedarwood elements. Visitors are instantly transported into a world of geometric beauty and artistic elegance.
Highlights of the Pavilion
- Four Unique Galleries: Each gallery is themed after Morocco’s historic cities, with distinctive design elements and layouts.
- Ornamental Fountains and Pools: Surrounded by colourful geometric tiles, these water features add to the serene ambience.
- Authentic Cedarwood Accents: Used in doors, panels, and furniture, the cedarwood adds warmth and a rich natural scent.
- Handcrafted Mosaic Art: A hallmark of Moroccan heritage, the walls and arches are adorned with vibrant, intricate mosaic patterns.
- Photo Opportunities: Every corner offers Instagram-worthy shots, especially near the majestic archways and garden pathways.
Things to Do at Moroccan Pavilion Putrajaya
- Photography: Capture the Moorish elegance for your social media or travel album.
- Cultural Discovery: Learn about Moroccan-Islamic design and its symbolic use of patterns and space.
- Botanical Garden Exploration: Extend your trip by walking or biking through Putrajaya Botanical Garden, home to themed gardens and a lakeside promenade.
- Lake Activities: Enjoy paddle boat rides on Putrajaya Lake, just a short stroll from the pavilion.
How to Get to Moroccan Pavilion Putrajaya
By Public Transport:
- Take the KLIA Transit train from KL Sentral to Putrajaya Sentral.
- From Putrajaya Sentral, hop on a Nadi Putra bus, Grab, or taxi to Taman Botani Putrajaya (Putrajaya Botanical Garden).
- Entry tickets for the pavilion are available at the Visitor Centre.
By Car:
- From Kuala Lumpur, drive via the MEX Highway (approximately 35–45 minutes).
- Set GPS to Astaka Morocco or Putrajaya Botanical Garden.
Top Attractions Near Moroccan Pavilion
- Putra Mosque: Known as the Pink Mosque, this is one of Malaysia’s most iconic religious sites.
- Seri Wawasan Bridge: A futuristic cable-stayed bridge ideal for photos, especially at night.
- Cruise Tasik Putrajaya: Enjoy scenic boat rides offering panoramic views of Putrajaya.
- Millennium Monument: A towering obelisk that narrates Malaysia’s history in a timeline.
Top Places to Eat Nearby
1. Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
- Located near the lake.
- Famous for: Grilled fish, chilli crab, and butter prawns.
2. IOI City Mall (15 mins away)
- Multiple dining choices: Malaysian, Japanese, Thai, Korean, Western.
- Recommended spots: Sepiring, Pak John Steamboat, Dome Café.
Where to Stay Near Moroccan Pavilion
The Everly Putrajaya
- 4-star hotel close to Alamanda Shopping Centre.
- Family-friendly, with a great breakfast spread.
Pulse Grande Hotel
- Surrounded by gardens and forest trails.
- Offers luxury accommodation and panoramic views of Putrajaya.
Dorsett Putrajaya
- Rooftop pool with lake views, halal-certified restaurant.
- Suitable for business or leisure travelers.
Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (subject to changes)
- Entrance Fee: RM3 (Adults), RM1 (Students)
- Ticket Point: Putrajaya Botanical Garden Visitor Centre
- Dress Code: Modest attire recommended
- Contact: +603-8887 7777 (Tourism Office)
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Putrajaya, don’t miss the Moroccan Pavilion—a one-of-a-kind destination blending artistry, history, and architecture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a casual traveler, Astaka Morocco will leave you in awe with its tranquil charm and ornate beauty.
