With Kuala Lumpur being Malaysia’s portal to the world, it is inevitable that visitors would need accommodations here. The great thing about traveling these days is that you’re not limited to staying in posh hotels or run down inns, depending on which one fits your budget.
KL is attracting backpackers and budget travelers, and thankfully the city is getting its share of affordable, comfortable and amazing looking budget hostels.
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
