Calling all creatives: have you run out of ideas for your next photography project? Still can’t find inspiration on what to paint? Are you having writer’s block?

If you’re looking for a quick escape from the hubbub of the city and want to explore somewhere more calm and relaxing where you can get in touch with your artistic side, this list of inspiring places around Klang Valley can help you.

1. Merchant’s Lane, Jalan Petaling

Photo credit: eatdrinkkl.blogspot.my

Influenced by the old towns of Malacca and Penang, Merchant’s Lane cafe is open, airy and pleasing to the eye.

The rattan chairs, peeling walls and potted plants gives a sense of nostalgia to help you hark back to simpler times and relax. It is located on Jalan Petaling, in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur.

2. Kota Damansara Community Forest Park, Petaling Jaya

Photo credit: Kota Damansara Community Forest Society, Facebook

You don’t have to go far from the city to be able to hike in a forest and enjoy a bit of greenery, because there’s a place right here in Petaling Jaya.

The forest reserve is over 800 acres and is a haven for flora and fauna. It is also perfect for mountain biking, canoeing, bird watching and photography. It can be accessed from Section 10, Kota Damansara.

3. Laman Seni 7, Shah Alam

Photo credit: jotarofootsteps.blogspot.my

One of the many hidden gems in Selangor, the self-styled #lorongbelakang is long alleyway with of creative art pieces painted on the walls and ground.

The #lorongbelakang was a collaboration between young artists and the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) to turn the back lanes into attractions. This particular lane can be found between Jalan Plumbum Q7/Q and Jalan Plumbum R7/R.

4. VCR, Bukit Bintang

Photo credit: kuala-lumpur.ws

With floor-to-ceiling windows and wooden paneled floors, this contemporary coffee house is perfect for brunch lovers.

The two-floor café is spacious, but it also creates a cosy spot where you can drink a cup of coffee and read a book. Just off Jalan Pudu, the café is located on Jalan Galloway.

5. Shalini Ganendra Fine Art, Petaling Jaya

Photo credit: SGFA (Shalini Ganendra Fine Art), Facebook

SGFA is an real eye-opener, presenting a range of art and design for contemporary collectors, including art, furnishings, bespoke ceramics, jewellery and textiles.

Contemporary, yet classy, it’s not just the art on display that helps to inspire visitors, but the environment as well. The gallery is located off Jalan 16/7, along Lorong 16/7b.

6. Einstein Cafe, Jalan Sultan

Photo credit: findingfats.com

It’s a bit of an adventure to find this cafe. You’ll have to look for Sinn Optical, located along Jalan Sultan, as the cafe itself has no signboard.

There is a red door beside the shop that will lead you to the top floor, where the cafe has been hidden away. The place is inviting and comfortable, almost home-like. Its peaceful environment is a good place to settle down with a drink, some snacks and a magazine or a board game.

7. Kuala Lumpur Orchid Park, Jalan Tembusu

Photo credit: anothernomad.com

Showcasing over 800 species of orchids, this garden is a wonderful place to spend some time if you want to clear your mind and refresh yourself.

If you enjoy the flowers, you can choose to buy a few pots of orchids to take home. The park is situated at Perdana Botanical Garden, within the Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park.