1) Petronas Towers

Petronas Towers (Photo by spyderdos)

You can’t visit Kuala Lumpur without getting your picture taken in front of the iconic Petronas Towers. These massive, tapering towers of glass and steel are connected by the Skybridge at levels 41 and 42. Visitors to the towers can take in the city’s skyline from the bridge or at the observation deck 360 meters up; or simply visit the modern mall in the lower six stories of the building.

2) Be a Star Shopper along Bukit Bintang

Bukit Bintang (Photo by Phalinn Ooi)

Kuala Lumpur’s shopaholics congregate along Bukit Bintang, an avenue of shopping malls and boutiques in the center of the city. Budget hunters will love Sungei Wang Plaza, while Pavilion mall will suit those looking for luxury.

There’s also plenty of entertainment venues and places to eat and drink along this avenue, so it’s OK to shop hungry.

3) Get a Thrill on an Indoor Rollercoaster

Berjaya Times Square Theme Park (Photo by Jonathan Lin)

Not sure what to do on a rainy day? Families traveling to the Malaysian capital can combine a shopping trip for the adults with an amusement park adventure for the kids at the Berjaya Times Square Mall. This complex featuring an indoor amusement park is just a short walk from Bukit Bintang.

And, if you don’t want to take a ride yourself, it’s always fun to watch other visitors whiz above you on the twisting roller coaster.

4) Visit the National Museum

Inside the National Museum, KL (Photo by Al404)

Malaysia’s National Museum offers an accessible yet comprehensive view of the country’s diverse cultural history. The galleries’ permanent exhibits feature weapons, homewares and cultural artifacts from the Malay culture and that of other ethnic groups represented in the history of Malaysia.

This is near the Lake Gardens, and so a visit here could be easily combined with a trip to the Bird Park or Orchid Garden.

5) Stroll through the Orchid Gardens

Orchid Garden, Kuala Lumpur (Photo by Auswandern Malaysia)

Home to 800 species of orchids from Malaysia, this one-hectare section in Kuala Lumpur’s Lake Gardens complex offers a chance to marvel at nature’s unerring designs. After enjoying the orchids, the adjoining hibiscus garden next door is also worth a visit. Budget travelers take note: entrance to the garden is free on weekdays and only 1 RM on weekends.

Check out where to stay in KL here.

6) Pay Your Respects at Batu Caves

Batu Caves (Photo by Davidlohr Bueso)

One of Kuala Lumpur’s star attractions is located out of the city proper, but shouldn’t be missed just on account of the commute. Batu Caves is a Hindu temple housed in natural limestone cave formations about 13 kilometers north of the capital. The caves were converted into the present impressive place of worship in the 1890s.

If you’re in Malaysia in January, the colorful festival of Thaipusam is held at Batu Caves and is a must-see.

7) Enjoy Food from the Subcontinent in Little India

Little India (Photo by Alexander Synaptic)

Malaysia’s unique location near the Spice Islands and on the peninsula between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea has made it a natural point of congress between many different cultures. During the period of British Colonialism, many people from present-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka immigrated to what is now Malaysia to work with the British Army or on British tea and rubber plantations.

In the present day, visit K.L’s Little India district in Brickfields, near the main railway station, to immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Malaysia’s thriving Indian population. Offering some of the best tastes of the Subcontinent, from thalis to dishes hot from the tandoor, it’s also a great place to find silks, jewelry and other imports.

8) Shop and People-Watch in Chinatown

Petaling Street (Photo by Yun Huang Yong)

Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, based in the streets and alleys around Petaling Street, features a pedestrianized shopping zone for all your souvenir needs, well-preserved colonial architecture, and an array of tantalizing restaurants. Malaysia’s population of Chinese ancestry has brought a myriad of tastes together from Asia’s largest country and—daring travelers whisper—perfected them here. Try local favorites by sampling the dim sum options, claypot rice, and Penang curry.

9) Make a Royal Stop at the Old Palace

The Istana Negara (Photo by Auswandern Malaysia)

Much is said about the Chinese and Indian influences on Kuala Lumpur’s districts, but don’t forget to pay homage to Malay culture as well. Malaysia is a monarchy, and a few rooms in one of the royal family’s palaces can be toured. Visit the Istana Negara at noon to see guards wearing traditional Malay ceremonial uniforms change their posts.

10) Flock to the Bird Park

The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park (Photo by Lyn)

Enjoy a quiet morning or afternoon with Malaysia’s feathered residents, at the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, situated in the Lake Gardens. This family-friendly attraction is a huge aviary where 200 species of birds fly around freely and visitors can get up close to their favorite winged animals.

What are your favorite places to visit in Kuala Lumpur? Feel free to share them in the comments.

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It is the city’s oldest park, and also its most popular. At any time of the week, the park is full of people wanting a break from the busy city. Its laid back atmosphere offers an ideal place to relax in, and it offers several activities for everyone. Take a slow boat ride on the lake, or keep fit by jogging or using the exercise machines. Children can have fun at the playground, and families can take walks around the various parks the area has. The gardens are easily accessible from other areas of interest in Kuala Lumpur, such as the National Monument, the Planetarium and the Parliament House.

Taman Tasik Perdana in KL (Photo by Phalinn Ooi)

Here are some of the places you can explore within Taman Tasik Perdana.

Orchid Garden

The Orchid Garden houses over 800 species from Malaysia. The garden is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM and has no admission fees. Take a walk around and admire the hundreds of orchids that are being taken care of here. On weekends, you can purchase orchids that you can bring home, take care of and cultivate.

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

Walk towards the opposite direction of the Orchid Garden and you’ll find one of Southeast Asia’s largest bird parks. Thousands of bird species from all over the world can be found here. The landscape is very natural looking to make the birds feel more at home. The park is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, but closed on public holidays. There is a minimal entrance fee, RM3.00 for adults and RM1.00 for children.

The Butterfly Park

With over 120 butterfly species, the Butterfly Park is a spectacular place to get lost in. Going around takes only an hour, but you’ll want to stay a little longer to explore some more. A hundred species of plants are used to create an atmosphere similar to a rainforest in the sanctuary. A butterfly nursery and breeding area can also be found here, as well as an insect museum and showroom. Admission is RM4.00 for adults and RM2.00 for children. The park is open from 9AM to 5PM on weekdays, 9AM to 6PM on weekends and public holidays.

Malaysian National Monument

Felix de Weldon designed this freestanding bronze sculpture, one of the largest in the world. It commemorates the people who died in the country’s struggle against the Communist insurgency in the 1950s and it features seven men who represent seven leadership qualities. Right next to the monument is a building containing memorabilia of the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, the second Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Carcosa Seri Negara

Inside the Tasik Perdana you can find two British colonial mansions. In the nineteenth century, these were residences of the British Governor and the High Commissioners. In the recent years it was converted to an exclusive hotel. It is known to serve high tea much like it did for its residents in the past.

Deer Park

The parks’ rugged terrain is home to a small population of mouse deer, considered to be world’s smallest hoofed animal. Other deer species can also be found here. The area closely resembles the animals’ natural habitat. Guests pay an admission fee of RM1.00.

Herb and Conservatory Gardens

These two gardens are often visited by herbalists, horticulturalists and students, while casual visitors to the park often discover it by accident. The Herb Garden is a popular place for medical practitioners who believe in herbal remedies and it houses over 200 species of carefully labelled herbs. Aside from their names, you can also learn about their usage and remedies. Next to it is the Conservatory Garden, where you can find plants like rain trees, bamboos and ferns plus bigger and denser trees. Guests can take a stroll or relax in the scattered benches and shades.

The Hibiscus Garden

The hibiscus is one of the most beautiful flowers in the world, and this garden houses more than 500 varieties, including several rare kinds. Known locally as bunga raya, the hibiscus is considered to be Malaysia’s national flower. The exhibition hall and information center can help you learn more about the hibiscus.

Getting to Tasik Perdana

The closest MRT station to the park is Pasar Seni or Central Market. Visitors taking the Damansara Highway can leave their vehicles at the National Museum carpark and walk to the park. Come via Petaling Street towards Cenderawasih then to Kelab Perdana Street.

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Here’s a list of places you can check in to the next time you’re in KL. All come highly recommended on TripAdvisor, as well as some personal feedback from friends who’ve experienced them.

1. BackHome

The name gives you the idea that you can have everything you need and be comfortable as if you were “back home”. Located in the center of KL’s financial district, BackHome is a row of six restored and converted colonial-era shophouses, with a central courtyard that provides a relaxing respite from the busy city. You can eat at the Lokl Cafe next door (link: http://loklcoffee.com/). The hostel has received numerous awards and accolades. Take your pick from any of the following: double room (for extra privacy), mixed 4 bed dorm, female 4 bed dorm, mixed 6/8 bed dorm, couples dorm, a 3 bed loft and capsule rooms. Folks who are looking for a place with a traditional Malaysian atmosphere may be put out of sorts with BackHome’s modern design, but it wins points by providing as much as creature comforts as they can. It’s also conveniently located near the Masjid Jamek MRT station, so no worries about your commute.
Address: 30, Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, Kuala Lumpur 50000, Malaysia

2. The Explorers Guesthouse

The exterior of the Explorers Guesthouse looks festive. A fairly new resthouse (only opened in 2010), it’s within easy reach of several tourist areas like Chinatown, Merdeka Square, Sri Mariamman Temple and the Central Market. The hostel was the brainchild of several backpackers, and the amenities were thought of based on their experiences. The nearby Pasar Seni Station LRT station gives guests easy access to places like the Petronas Twin Towers and the Lake Gardens. Pick from a dorm room (6 bed for the females, 10 bed for the mixed) or any of the private shared bedrooms (3 bed, double bed, twin, and single) depending on your need.
Address: No 128 & 130 Jalan Tun H.S Lee, Kuala Lumpur 50000, Malaysia

3. V Garden Hotel

If you don’t want to stay in the middle of KL but still be within easy commute distance, then V Garden Hotel is a good choice. Cabs and buses can take you to and fro, and the Maluri Rapid KL station is but a five-minute walk away. The V Garden Hotel offers a standard rooms, superior rooms, deluxe rooms and private apartments (studio & deluxe). The in-house cafe opens to a garden courtyard which offers a relaxing place for guests to enjoy coffee or snacks. The hotel’s rooftop garden is also a nice place to enjoy the KL skyline. You can be assured of high security as just getting through the front door requires a keycard.
Address: 21, Jalan Pudu Ulu, off Jalan Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56100, Malaysia

4. Reggae Mansion Kuala Lumpur

“Reggae” brings to mind Bob Marley, music and a relaxed atmosphere. The name certainly fits Reggae Mansion, one of the hostels in the Reggae Hostels Group. Located in KL’s China Town, the Mansion is a renovated, three-storey building that is not just a place where you can stay in for the night, but it’s also a place where you can hang out. The bar and kitchen serve western and Asian food, with a lounge that’s a good meeting place for travelers. There is the rooftop Skybar which allows for a pleasant view of KL. Aside from the standard private rooms and dorms, the Reggae Mansion offers the Backpackers party dorms, ideal for those who don’t mind a little late night partying before hitting the sheets. Dorms rates start at MYR 40 per head.
Address: 49 – 59, Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, Kuala Lumpur 50000, Malaysia

5. Red Palm

The hostel is located in the city’s main dining and shopping district, a.k.a. the “Golden Triangle”. This makes it one of the best places to stay in when you are in KL because everything — food, shops, entertainment — is just a short walk away. While it’s a pretty small hostel (it can accommodate around 14 people at a time), it’s location makes it a prime place. The smaller number of guests can ensure you a more personal and friendly service. The walls are a little thin, so if you’re easily bothered by noise, bring along some earplugs. Otherwise, it’s a convenient and comfortable place to stay.
Address: 5, Tengkat Tong Shin | Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur 50200, Malaysia

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Here we have five of the city’s best places to experience nightlife in Kuala Lumpur. Take on one, or two or more and mingle with locals, expatriates and fellow travelers and get a feel of the city’s multi-cultural vibe.

1. Zouk Club

Zouk in Jalan Ampang was brought to KL in 2004 by the same group who handles Zouk in Singapore, so you can expect the hip, party vibe that this establishment is known all over the world for. Zouk KL offers six rooms that thump with different music genres, and often hosts musical acts from all over the world. This is where one goes to see and be seen, and is a favorite among locals and expats. However, if tourists don’t have the money to burn, they may be deterred by the relatively high entrance fee.

2. SkyBar

Located at the 33rd floor of the Traders Hotel, SkyBar has the best view of KL’s cityscape and sits directly in front of the Petronas Twin Towers. The sunken benches by the window are the best places to sit, particularly when waiting for the sun to set. It might be a good idea to call in advance for a reservation. However, any other place is good enough to sip your cocktail chat with friends. There’s a pool as well that at night is lit up from below and offers an interesting contrast to the cosmopolitan surroundings.

3. Rootz Club

The rooftop club of Lot 10 Shopping Center is spacious yet posh, with its interior’s decor leaving heavily on ornate and lavish. It’s got a vibe quite similar to most European clubs, which makes it favorable for expats and tourists. The club’s DJs play favorite beats that get the crowd rocking throughout the night. Be aware though, the club allows smoking indoors.

4. The Loft KL

In the recent years, the Asian Heritage Row has resurrected itself as one of the best nightlife destinations in KL. Recently redesigned, The Loft now has three nightclubs, Upstairs, SPACE and Cynna. Take your pick from any one of them and dance to the beats spun by house deejays that seem to attract club goers and party animals from all over.

5. Bar Ibiza and Bar Uno

These two bars in Jalan P. Ramlee are right next to each other, so take your pick. Bar Ibiza’s vibe can be likened to the place that inspired its name. Music gets your heart pumping and if it doesn’t make you get up and dance, then you’ve got a problem. Bar Uno is for those who enjoy live bands. Every so often they shake things up with various offerings on drinks, while some nights are made more exciting with their quirky themes.

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Langkawi offers numerous beaches where tourists can spend time relaxing, swimming or enjoying other water sports. The islands also boasts of three major geoparks that are under the protection of the UNESCO World Geopark.

Air Travel

Langkawi International Airport

The fastest way for a traveler to get from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Langkawi is to take the plane. The Langkawi International Airport at Padang Matsirat receives flights from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) through Air Asia and Malaysia Airlines. Flights are also available from the Subang and Penang airports, as well as direct flights from Singapore, Hong Kong and Phuket, Thailand.

The advantage of taking the plane from KL to Langkawi is the amount of time you save. Travelers who want to cover as much ground as they can or are in a limited vacation time should choose this option. However, note that plane fares vary on the season, and may be costly. Check the flight schedules and plan your trip accordingly.

Road Trip

Kuala Perlis Ferry Terminal

Getting from mainland Malaysia to Langkawi requires a ferry trip from one of the ports in Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis.

From Kuala Lumpur, you can either take the bus or train to either port. There are several bus and coach services that offer hourly trips on a daily schedule.

While the journey can take hours (different reports say that it can take from six to twelve hours, depending one which port you’ll be coming from or the bus company you’ll be taking), the buses are generally comfortable with plush seats that recline for sleeping. Most bus services have at least two stops along the way, so you can stretch your legs for a bit and grab a bite to.

You can also reach these ports by train. The Express Langkawi offers trips to Kedah or Perlis. You can choose to buy a seat or rent out a private carriage for your comfort.

Upon arriving at the ports, you can take your pick from the available ferry services that can take you to Langkawi. Adult fare generally starts at RM12 (Kuala Perlis) and RM15 (Kuala Kedah). Ferry services are also available if you are coming from Penang.

No matter the means of getting there, Langkawi has much to offer and is definitely worth the trip.

Photos by dmytrok and alanalew

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1. Go on an Asian food exploration

Hawker food stalls in Jalan Alor

Kuala Lumpur offers some of the best in different Asian cuisines, such as Malay, Chinese, and Indian food. Tickle your taste buds with an explosion of flavors from restaurants and food courts in shopping malls – where you can sample the best of Asian cuisine at reasonable prices. For a more authentic Asian dining experience, you can try out the hawker food stalls along Jalan Alor, considered as the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s local cuisine.

2. Go (very high) up the Petronas Towers

Petronas Towers also known as the Petronas Twin Towers or KLCC

Go to the Petronas Towers’ Skybridge, and get to see the rest of the city from 170 meters above the ground. Make sure that you to the Petronas Towers very early in the morning, as there are limited tickets available for daily visitors.

3. Go even higher on the KL Tower

KL Tower & KLCC

The observation deck of the KL Tower (Menara KL) puts you 421 meters above the ground, and you will see not only the rest of the Kuala Lumpur cityscape, but also the Petronas Towers from a breathtaking vantage point as well.

4. Shopping sprees

Jalan Petaling, Petaling Street

Shopping is one of the things you can do to your heart’s content in KL, especially because there are a lot of places to choose from depending on your preference, and your budget. High-end, designer brands can be seen in the city’s biggest shopping malls like Suria KLCC; Chinatown’s Jalan Petaling, on the other hand, is a must-visit for bargain-hunters for inexpensive clothes, bags, shoes, and other items.

5. Explore Chinatown and the Central Market

View of the inside of Central Market

Chinatown is best explored by walking around, so you can see the old-fashioned coffee and tea houses, the street food stalls, the gold shops, Chinese herbal medicines/remedies shops, and a wide array of other interesting merchandise and people. After the Chinatown exploration, you can then check the Central Market for interesting trinkets and handicrafts that you can take home as souvenirs of your Malaysian adventure.

Check out the best hotel offers in KL.

6. Visit the museums and Malaysia’s rich heritage

National Museum, Kuala Lumpur

The museums in Kuala Lumpur will offer you a peek into the rich Malay cultural heritage. The National Museum features dioramas and exhibits featuring Chinese and Malay culture, vintage automobiles, and more. The National Art Gallery has more than 2,500 art pieces by Malaysian and international artists, and workshops are available as well on certain dates.

7. Get to know the beauty of pewter

This photo of Royal Selangor Pewter Factory and Visitor Centre is courtesy of TripAdvisor

8. Go on a historic walking tour

National Mosque

A walking tour of the city’s historic landmarks is a must if you wish to get a deeper feel of Kuala Lumpur’s rich heritage and interesting architecture. The Moorish-inspired Old Railway station is an ideal starting point, after which you can marvel at the National Mosque and its electric blue dome, and on to the Independence Square (Merdeka Square). This historic walking tour can be concluded at the birthplace of KL, where the Klang and Gombak rivers meet.

9. Visit the KL Bird Park

KL Bird Park

The KL Bird Park, world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviary, is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Located in the scenic Lake Gardens, the bird park has a lush valley terrain spanning 20.9 acres just waiting to be explored by nature lovers. As you explore the park’s attractions, don’t be surprised if you feel supremely relaxed at the same time as you appreciate the beauty that only nature can offer.

10. Relax in a coffee shop and people-watch

Yut Kee Kopitiam (coffee shop) – it is more than 82 years old in KL

Kuala Lumpur has numerous coffee shops where you can sit down and recharge your energy after all that exploring and walking around. As you sip your coffee or tea, you can also indulge in observing the people who pass by (and the people around your perch); you might be surprised that you can learn a lot about Malaysian culture by being a silent observer!

Photos by migikata, thomaswanhoff, rifqy, Auswandern, Khalzuri, roaming-the-planet, Pon Pon Tin(hohiyan), Uspn and Tianyake

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Just like the rest of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is culturally diverse. Malays, Chinese, and Indians make up most of the population, although an increasing percentage of the people who live in the city are made up of a host of other nationalities due to the number of multi-national corporations (as well as foreign embassies) that have their offices in and around Kuala Lumpur. Exploring the city will open your eyes to a multitude of nationalities, languages and dialects, scents, cuisines, and architecture that will make you want to explore the hidden wonders of Kuala Lumpur even more!

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Your KL Home Away from Home

You will find a wide array of accommodations in the city, with options that cater to almost every budget and facilities preference. Dormitory-type lodging houses for the budget conscious are normally located in the outskirts of the city (around 10 minutes from the main tourist attractions), while international chain hotels are more often found right in the heart of the city centre.

Going Around

Kuala Lumpur has a tropical climate throughout the year, which means that you will have to deal with the heat and the humidity as you go around the places you want to visit. Wear lightweight clothes so you can be as comfortable as possible as you go around, but make sure that you also dress appropriately especially when you plan on visiting mosques and other places of worship. It will be a good idea to bring sunglasses and a hat to protect you from the intense heat while you go around the city; an umbrella will come in handy for the rains that may suddenly come down especially during the afternoon.

KL Sky

ATMs and moneychangers can be found all around the city, so you don’t have to worry about running out of cash. Moneychangers often offer better exchange rates from your currency to the Malaysian Ringgit, and those that have stand-alone businesses or branches (outside of the shopping malls) are open until late at night.

Taking the public transportation (by bus or by monorail) will let you experience how it is to commute in KL. The buses and monorail can take you to the places you wish to visit around the city, and will also enable you to explore unplanned attractions along the way. You can also take the taxi if you prefer a little more privacy and comfort in going around the city; however, it is best to insist on using the meter for the taxi fare, as drivers have the tendency to try and negotiate a fixed rate (which is often hugely inflated) with their passengers.

KL Monorail

Explore Kuala Lumpur

The Petronas Towers, KLCC, and Menara KL

Petronas Towers

Kuala Lumpur is almost always synonymous with the Petronas Towers (also called the Twin Towers), so seeing and experiencing it for yourself is a must when you are in the city. Standing at the foot of the 451.9-meter tall towers will give you a breathtaking perspective of the imposing structures; you can also go up the Skybridge which is 170 meters above the ground, or go up to the Observation Deck on the 86th floor to get a bird’s eye view of the rest of the city. Connected to the feet of the Petronas Towers is Suria KLCC, an upscale shopping mall that also includes a Science Center, an underwater aquarium (Aquaria), a philharmonic theater, and an art gallery. You can explore the outdoors around the Twin Towers by going around the KLCC Park which has a children’s playground, walking and jogging paths, wading pools, and a fountain with an incorporated light show. If you want another view of the city from a high vantage point (and a view of the Twin Towers from a distance), go up to the observation deck of the Menara KL (KL Tower) which is 421 meters high; schedule your trip here before sunset and you will surely fall in love with the spectacular view.

Shop Until you Drop!

Petaling Street

Kuala Lumpur is one of best cities to go to when you want to do some serious retail therapy, as the city alone has 66 shopping malls that cater to almost every budget and fashion preference. Bukit Bintang (located in the Golden Triangle) is the city’s premiere shopping district, where luxurious shopping options (such as the Starhill Gallery) are just a few steps away from places where budget-conscious individuals can shop their hearts out (such as Sungei Wang). The districts of Jalan Ampang, Midvalley, and Bangsar also have shopping malls, department stores, and hypermarkets where you can buy almost anything and everything to satisfy your love for shopping. If you want to veer away from the retail giants and want to search for unique souvenirs and Asian-inspired items, you should spend a few hours exploring Chinatown (especially Petaling Street), the nearby Central Market, and Little India.

The Wonders of Nature

Batu Caves Hindu Temple

Kuala Lumpur may be a bustling metropolis, but there are also places in this city where nature and animal lovers can go to satisfy their passions. Three large urban parks dot the city: KLCC Gardens, The Lake Gardens, and the Titiwangsa Lake Gardens. The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park located in the Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens is dubbed as the “world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviary”; this 20.9-acre bird park is home to over 3,000 birds of 200 local and foreign birds species. The Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve located close to the Menara KL (KL Tower) and spanning approximately 27 acres, is one of Malaysia’s oldest permanent forest reserves, and the only tropical rainforest in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. You can combine an appreciation of nature with religious significance with a short drive from the city center that will lead you to the Batu Caves – one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India, consisting of caves and cave temples; the biggest, the Temple Cave or Cathedral Cave, can be reached only by a steep uphill climb of 272 steps, so you better have comfortable and sturdy footwear!

Historic and Cultural Landmarks

Old Railway Station, Kuala Lumpur

The best way to explore KL’s historic landmarks is to go on a walking tour, starting with the Old Railway Station’s Moorish-inspired architecture, then on to the distinctive electric blue dome of the National Mosque, on to the Merdeka Square or the Independence Square and its huge flag mast. You can conclude the walking tour at the birthplace of Kuala Lumpur, where the Gombak and Klang rivers meet. Get a chance to discover much more about Malaysia’s cultural heritage by going to the National Museum.

Flavorful Food Feasts

Jalan Alor Food Stalls

All that walking around the city will leave you famished, but you don’t have to worry as there is a wide range of dining options you can choose from. Western, fast-food, and international chain restaurants can be found in the shopping malls if you want food choices that are familiar and within your comfort zone. If your taste buds are craving Thai, Chinese, Indonesian or Malay cuisine, you will find the most flavorful dishes at the roadside stalls (“hawker stalls”) in Chinatown (Jalan Sultan, Jalan Petaling, Jalan Tun HS Lee, and Jalan Hang Lekir), Little India, and in the Jalan Alor area; most of these roadside stalls and restaurants start their operations at 5:00PM, and stay open until 10:00PM or even later.

The multitude of new experiences you will have as you go around Kuala Lumpur will definitely whet your appetite to exploring even more of the rest of Malaysia. The unforgettable attractions, cuisine, and architecture you see in KL can be regarded as just previews of what the rest of the country can offer you in terms of a great adventure. As you go around Kuala Lumpur, you will learn that what makes this city so dynamic -and at the same time so rich in cultural heritage -are the reasons why local and foreign tourists alike can’t help but fall in love with the wonder that is KL.

Photos by carawah, Raffaell, Sheep”R”Us’, Ehsan Khakbaz, Auswandern, carawah, Khalzuri and fpaulus

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