Originally just a small town gaining traction due to the development of Ligamas, Batang Kali is now quickly emerging as one of the fastest-growing suburb in Hulu Selangor District.

Many recreational parks and holiday resorts have been opened all around it, especially along the route connecting Batang Kali and Genting Highlands.

Bandar Utama Batang Kali is steadily expanding with new sections being added as new developments are being constructed, such as the Pusat Perdagangan Ara.

Federal Route FT 1 The Batang Kali massacre occurred at this location on 12 December 1948[3] during the period of the Malayan Emergency.

On 16 December 2022, a landslide hit campsites in Father's Organic Farm[4] at Jalan Genting (Selangor State Route B66) near the town, killing 31 people, 8 of them are children.