Our staycation expedition around the country brings us to DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside. This resort at the national capital is much more than a hotel; the property is a labyrinth of architectural masterpieces, featuring many points of interest that are worth exploring throughout our stay.
From the outside, DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside stands out majestically like a grand palace with imposing towers on all sides.
Arriving by car, we are greeted by an ornate archway with distinctive Malay architectural elements.
Even when viewed from Putrajaya Lake, the grandeur of the resort is magnificent indeed!
An Architectural Gem
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the awe-inspiring architecture of DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside.
The premises was originally envisioned as a cultural museum. This explains the rich tapestry of architectural elements incorporated into its design.
The building complex comprises of four main wings. Each wing has a distinctive facade that represents a different culture.
The cultures represented are Malay, Chinese, Indian and Bornean. This explains why each wing has a distinctive character.
From the intricate motifs on Malay pillar arches to the towering elegance of Chinese pagodas, the resort pays homage to the multicultural society that shaped Malaysia.
The four wings are all interconnected via bridges on the second floor, providing easy access around the resort.
At the heart of the building complex is an expansive courtyard with a lofty clock tower in the middle.
The clock tower has five tiers with the clock on the very top. Designed with a nod to medieval themes, this architectural gem is perfect for Instagram-worthy photos!
No matter which direction the clock tower is viewed from, its timeless presence adds a touch of mystical charm to the resort.
At night, the clock tower transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle as golden lights illuminate each level. Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at this breathtaking display!
Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Putrajaya Lake is the Lakeside Pavilion. Extending over the water, this thatched structure offers a tranquil escape for anyone seeking a moment of peace.
Further down, there is a cluster of pavilions overlooking the beautiful lake. These pavilions are currently undergoing renovations. We can’t wait to see what they will be transformed into!
A Warm Welcome
Although the official check-in time is 4:00pm, the hotel staff contacted us via WhatsApp that our room is available earlier than expected. We are delighted by this personal touch of courtesy!
As per DoubleTree tradition, we are treated to DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies upon checking in. What a delightful way to start our stay! These signature cookies are also available for purchase at the hotel lobby. Remember to grab an extra tin or two to share with friends and family back home!
Our room is located at the Bornean wing. This hotel wing is designed to evoke the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Open-air corridors allow natural breeze to flow around freely.
The scent of lush vegetation to permeates the central courtyard. The tranquil ambiance is absolutely soothing to the soul.
The Bornean wing also showcases intricate wood carvings and many elements of nature, reflecting the island’s remarkable biodiversity.
We are able to unlock our room using a digital key on the Hilton Honors mobile app. No worries if we ever leave the key cards inside the room!
Our room type is the King Executive Lake View Room. As the name implies, the guestroom affords stunning views of Putrajaya Lake.
With the idyllic scenery as the backdrop, the balcony is an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
In the middle of our room, the comfortable king-size bed ensures that we are well rested throughout our entire stay.
There are plush bathrobes and slippers in the wardrobe. Electronic safe and clothes iron are also available. There is also an additional pillow for extra comfort.
As for in-room entertainment, the 50-inch TV has dozens of movie and radio channels. Meanwhile, the reading desk on the side allows us to catch up on work.
We are delighted to have a daybed next to the window. It is wonderful to curl up with a book here while taking in the scenery outside.
In line with Hilton’s sustainability goals, the resort eliminates single-use plastic bottles and replaces them with reusable glass bottles. Water dispensers are placed on every floor, so guests can conveniently have the glass bottles refilled! Need to brew some coffee or tea? There is also a water boiler in the room.
The bathroom features sleek and modern design, with strategically placed ring lights around the mirror for optimal illumination.
Several personal care products at DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside are supplied by Crabtree & Evelyn. Examples are shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, hand wash and body lotion.
The rain shower provides cold and warm water. It is nice to have a warm shower before going to bed!
As the sun sets, Putrajaya’s illuminated skyline comes into view. The colorful Seri Saujana Bridge shimmers in the distance, creating an enchanting spectacle in the night sky.
Makan Kitchen
Makan Kitchen is the all-day dining outlet in DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside. As its name implies, the restaurant specializes in local delicacies that strike a chord with the Malaysian palate. The à la carte menu also includes Western favorites to cater to the resort’s cosmopolitan clientele.
Like its counterparts in other DoubleTree properties, Makan Kitchen is divided into several “kitchens”, each specializing in a regional cuisine. The restaurant’s open kitchen concept allows the chefs to prepare food in front of diners’ eyes.
Makan Kitchen is where in-house guests are served breakfast every morning. Wake up to the soothing aroma of Teh Tarik, the favorite drink of Malaysians! The pouring technique gives the tea a smooth and frothy consistency.
Nasi Lemak is so popular in Malaysia that it is often called a national dish. The rice is infused with coconut milk and is usually wrapped in banana leaves for extra fragrance. Nasi Lemak can be enjoyed with side dishes like Ayam Goreng Berempah, Rendang Ayam, Sambal Bawang and Sambal Paru.
Hailing from the southern state of Johor, Kacang Phool is prepared from beans and minced meat. The savory stew is typically served with toasted bread and half-boiled eggs.
Roti Jala is prepared from scratch in view of diners. These net-like crêpes are usually paired with chicken curry.
The Chinese kitchen has an assortment of steamed Dim Sum and Pau. On selected days, there are also specialties like Chee Cheong Fun and Steamed Yam Cake.
At the Noodles station, there are several types of noodles and toppings to choose from. Just pick your favorite ingredients and let the chef do the cooking! The soup choices vary daily, so there is always something new to try.
Do you love Fish Porridge? Customize your bowl of congee with toppings like braised peanuts, pickled radishes, century eggs and many more.
Moving to the Indian kitchen, the colorful array of curries really brightens up our day! Today’s dishes include Sardine Paratel, Aloo Subzi, Dal Tadka and Lamb Rogan Josh.
The delicious curry dishes go well with breads like Roti Canai, Poori and Idly.
At the à la minute eggs counter, there are various egg dishes such as Fried Eggs, Poached Eggs, Scrambled Eggs and Omelettes.
Our choice today is Eggs Benedict. The poached egg is served on toasted bread and topped with creamy hollandaise sauce.
Roti Bakar Telur Goyang is another crowd favorite. This nutritious dish consists of toasted bread topped with poached eggs.
Breakfast cereals come in easy-to-serve dispensers. Chilled milk is provided.
Since the resort welcomes guests from many nationalities, Western-style breakfast is served too.
When it comes to Western breakfast, we love the classic Chicken Sausages, Hash Browns and Streaky Beef!
Pizza for breakfast? Why not? The pizza topping is rotated daily.
Also fresh from the oven are artisanal bread in various forms. As for sliced bread, there is a conveyor toaster if you want it toasted.
Waffles, pancakes and lempeng are also prepared fresh throughout the morning. Peanut butter, jam, kaya and other spreads are provided.
Our personal favorite spread is fresh honey from the honeycomb!
From chocolate-sprinkled donuts to Danish pastries, the pastry choices here are too tempting to pass up!
Even the fussiest kids will find something tempting at the Kid’s Corner.
Looking for something healthy? The salad bar has a variety of greens and dressings to build your own salad. For a flavorful twist, you may want to add Basil Hummus or Beetroot Hummus too!
At the conclusion of breakfast, cleanse your palate with assorted yogurt, cut fruits, or a scoop of ice cream!
Besides catering breakfast, Makan Kitchen also serves Weekend Seafood Galore Dinner Buffet on Friday and Saturday, and Malaysian High Tea Buffet on Sunday.
The Koffee
Meanwhile for quick bites between meals, The Koffee at the hotel lobby is the perfect place to go. The eatery serves light meals like cakes and pastries. Of course, the iconic DoubleTree cookies are available for purchase too!
The café is spacious and cozy, making it a nice spot to relax while sipping a cup of joe.
Be sure to check out the Koffee macramé here! Crated from thick threads, the artwork depicts a landscape of mountains, clouds and a solitary black bird. The soft pastel colors create a peaceful and inviting backdrop.
In the evening, a three-piece live band keeps patrons entertained with soothing melodies.
Executive Lounge
The Executive Lounge provides a serene retreat from the livelier sections of the resort. As for business travelers, this tranquil oasis is the perfect spot to catch up on work.
The decorations in the Executive Lounge are inspired by Asian elements. For instance, the rattan baskets here are hand-painted by local artists.
There is a small buffet area within the Executive Lounge. Guests can choose to have their breakfast here, although the food choices are somewhat limited compared to the breakfast spread at Makan Kitchen.
Complimentary evening cocktail is served from 5:00pm daily. Patrons can help themselves to light snacks before dinner service.
Coffee, tea, fruit juice, soft drinks and Italian sparkling water are made available at the Executive Lounge throughout the day. However, canned beer is only available when evening cocktail is served.
Please note that the Executive Lounge is exclusively available to guests of Executive Rooms and Suites, as well as Hilton Honors Diamond members. Please keep this in mind when you book a room.
Splash Pool
The most vibrant section of DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is probably the Splash Pool. This children-friendly water attraction is designed to provide endless excitement for children under the age of 15.
The centerpiece at the Splash Pool is a whimsical pirate ship fitted with water jets and slides. This aquatic playground promises hours of watery fun for children of all ages.
Watch in anticipation as the water bucket fills up to the brim. Suddenly without warning, the bucket tips over and dumps a gush of cooling water onto the cheering crowd below!
Engage in friendly water gun battles with others!
For older children, the one-storey-high water slide is designed to get their hearts racing! The minimum height requirement for this ride is 1.2 meters.
Meanwhile, the shaded section of the Splash Pool is designed specifically for children under the age of 4. Adult supervision is required at all times.
Lakeside Pool
While the Splash Pool is meant for children, adults can use the Lakeside Pool which overlooks the picturesque Putrajaya Lake.
When viewed from the deck, the infinity pool appears to merge with the calm waters of the lake!
Should you prefer to keep your feet dry, recline on the comfortable deck chairs and be captivated by sweeping panoramas of the lake!
In addition to the main pool, there is also a shallower pool that is more suited for children. Surrounding this crescent-shaped pool are several rattan beach huts. Why not grab a book and relax in one of these huts?
By nightfall, the Lakeside Pool emits an enchanting blue glow, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle from afar.
Rooftop Pool
Do you know that there is yet another swimming pool in the resort? The Rooftop Pool is perched on the top floor of one of the hotel wings.
The Rooftop Pool is meant for adults only, so this place is a better choice if you prefer to take a dip in a quieter setting.
Nestled high above, the Rooftop Pool affords lovely views of the surrounding area.
Several steps away from the main pool is a shallower pool with ledge loungers inside.
Relax on these comfortable ledge loungers and let the gentle waters wash your worries away!
Staying Healthy
The fitness center at DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is open 24 hours a day.
The gym is equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, allowing in-house guests to keep up with their fitness routine.
Gym towels and drinking water are provided for the convenience of guests.
The restrooms next to the fitness center have steam room and sauna facilities. After working out, it is nice to relax and rejuvenate here.
As for therapeutic treatments, Mandara Spa offers a range of rejuvenating massages and body treatments inspired by the Balinese healing traditions.
Kids Haven
As a family-friendly resort, DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside has an indoor Kids Club for children below the age of 12. This enriching space offers a variety of engaging activities to keep the little ones entertained throughout their stay.
Kids who are artistically gifted can express their creativity through drawing and coloring.
There is a mock kitchen where children can explore their culinary talent.
Children can also pass the time watching cartoons and playing video games.
The Kids Club even has a special gated room specially for toddlers.
Next to the Kids Club is the Arcade Room. Children and teenagers will be easily hooked by the many video games and claw machines here.
There are also several arcade basketball machines. Can you beat the current high score?
Alternatively, head to the Games Room to play some ping pong or darts. There is also a cozy reading nook with shelves of storybooks. Want to play board games like Scrabble or Monopoly? The game pieces can be borrowed from the recreation counter.
Speaking of board games, check out the supersized Chess pieces outside!
Evoke your childhood memories with a game of hopscotch, also known locally as “teng-teng”!
And why not also play a game of badminton with your buddies while you are here?
Furthermore, there are kiddie rides like ATV or motorized cars for rent near the clock tower.
These illuminated rides create a dazzling spectacle at night. What a fascinating way for kids to explore the resort!
The Great Outdoors
Putrajaya Lake is popular among joggers thanks to its well-maintained trails.
Joggers can begin from the resort and head in either direction.
A complete lap around Putrajaya Lake normally takes about an hour. But with many scenic viewpoints along the way, you will find yourself slowing down to take in the beautiful scenery.
If you prefer a shorter excursion, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens within the resort grounds. Take a moment to appreciate the lush greenery at every corner!
The old banyan tree is another landmark within the resort. This noble giant is renowned for its expansive canopy and aerial roots.
There is even a Zen garden concealed within one of the hotel wings. You need to do some exploring to find it!
Do you enjoy treasure hunting? You will be thrilled to know that DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside has one! Get the question sheet from the reception and start exploring the resort to find all the clues. Free DoubleTree cookies await once you solve the puzzle!
Taking Care of Business
The Connectivity Zone provides a dedicated workspace for guests who need to stay connected and remain productive during their stay. Even if you do not have a laptop computer, you can still browse the Internet using the computer terminals here.
As for MICE, DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside provides more than 20 meeting rooms of various sizes to tailor the needs of each event. Each room is equipped with state-of-the-art LCD projectors, teleconferencing equipment and digital sound systems.
The meeting rooms are named after famous lakes in Malaysia. The largest venue, Kenyir Ballroom, can accommodate up to 450 guests in a banquet setting. As for wedding packages at DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside, please check out WeddingsAtHilton.com.
A Memorable Departure
DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is so large that there is much left to explore in the resort! But all good things must come to an end. Soon it is time to bid farewell to this enchanting haven. Although guests can simply drop the key cards into the express check-out box, we still prefer to check out through the reception counter. After all, we want to thank the staff for the warm hospitality that we experienced throughout our stay!
Our stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is filled fun and memorable experiences. There is no shortage of entertainment and recreation in this family-friendly resort. Besides the idyllic lakeside view, DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside stands out as one of the most unique resorts that we have ever visited in terms of design and architecture. As for dining, the extensive buffet spreads at Makan Kitchen are able to keep our tummies satisfied. To start your staycation experience at DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside as we did, simply visit Hilton.com to enjoy the best room rates. You may also contact the resort via WhatsApp if you require further information.
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Direction to DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside
