Ultimate Foodie Guide: Where to Eat in KL, Malaysia + Foods to Try

Before my trip to Kuala Lumpur, I asked my friends from Malaysia what I needed to do with my time in the city. Every one of them gave me the same answer – eat, shop, EAT, repeat! And because the local food is such a popular subject here, I decided to put together this comprehensive foodies guide with everything you need to know about where to eat in KL, as well as which dishes to try!

With some of the best shopping malls in the world and insanely mouth-watering local food, it’s easy to see how I got this answer from my friends. From the famous nasi lemak to satay, fried chicken, rendang chicken  and mee goreng, food in Kuala Lumpur is just too good. 

Below, I’ve run you through a few of my favourite local dishes that you need to sample during your trip to Malaysia to make sure you don’t miss out!

It’s not just the local food that will have you happily stuffing your faces. As a buzzing metropolis, Kuala Lumpur’s food seems to have the best of everything. Hipster cafes, coffee shops, brunch bars, you’re completely spoiled for choice – that’s why I prepared a special section with some of the best restaurants in KL sorted by topics: street food stalls, breakfast, lunch, dinner and fine dining.

Let’s get started with this Kuala Lumpur food guide:

What to eat in KL – 17 Unmissable dishes

You will find all sorts of amazing Asian dishes in Kuala Lumpur – from curries, fried meats, noodle soups, veggie-filled rolls and more, all coming with their own dipping sauce, side dishes, rice and other yummy additions. Seriously, I’m telling you, eating is some sort of art in Kuala Lumpur and I’m all for it!

Below I have listed my 17 favourite dishes from the Malaysian cuisine that I had while I was in Kuala Lumpur.

1 – NASI LEMAK

This dish (literally meaning ‘fat rice’) is so simple yet so good! It’s fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf accompanied by fried chicken or fish and it’s usually served with fried peanuts, egg, sliced cucumber and spicy sambal. Some of the best nasi lemak in the city is found at Nasi Lemak Tanglin (multiple spots around the city).

Nasi Lemak in Kuala Lumpur

2 – SATAY

A satay dish is straightforward and delicious: sizzling chunks of meat on a skewer, coated in different kinds of marinades and cooked over a chargrill fire. This type of Malay food is usually served with different kinds of sauces and you can find it all around Kuala Lumpur, especially if you’re asking at a food court.

satay in kuala lumpur

3 – LAKSA

In case you’re wondering what to eat in Kuala Lumpur for the first time, an authentic laksa dish is probably one of the most common answers. It’s made of rice noodles in a delicious spicy soup, made with coconut – I love this dish! Creamy yet sour, with hints of lemongrass, laksa is usually served with chicken, prawns or fish. And a cold beer on the side, why not?

laksa dish in singapore

4 – ROTI CANAI

Roti canai is basically a Malaysian adaptation of a classic Indian bread. You can also find it in Singapore as well and it’s basically a pan-fried flatbread, usually served as a side dish. It’s soft, flavourful and you can rip it in pieces and mix it with a curry whenever you’re having a saucy dish.

If you want to try it out, I recommend checking out Mansion Tea Stall where they have a special roti canai.

5 – BAK KUT TEH

Bak kut teh is a traditional broth made with pork ribs, mushrooms, tofu, garlic and fresh herbs (cinnamon, star anise etc). This dish can be translated to “pork bone tea” and, as simple as it may sound, it’s super delicious! You can find it in lots of places, from a food stall to a fine dining restaurant.

Bak kut teh dish in singapore

6 – CHILI PAN MEE

This is a type of delicious noodle soup. Aside from the noodles, this dish has minced pork, a soft boiled egg, fried onions, fried anchovies cut into small pieces and, to top it off, a spicy chili sauce. I recommend trying it at Kin Kin –  the chili pan mee is actually their signature dish!

Chili pan mee dish malaysia

7 – AYAM PERCIK

Ayam percik is barbecued chicken marinated in a spicy sauce made of chili, garlic, ginger and coconut milk. Think spicy, crispy skin and tender, juicy insides. I just love this coconut spiced chicken!

Ayam Percik dish malaysia

8 – HOKKIEN MEE

Hokkien mee or Hokkien char mee is a dish that can be found in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and some of the surrounding regions. It’s made of thick noodles with lots of dark soy sauce, as well as cabbage, pork, fresh fish cakes and squid. It may sound like an odd combination, but it’s so good, especially if you eat it from a food court where they make it over a charcoal fire.

Hokkien Mee dish malaysia

9 – RENDANG

There is debate whether Rendang is from Malaysia or Indonesia. What’s not for debate? The fact that it is friggen delicious! This is literally my favourite dish in the world – a rich, spicy dry curry usually made with tender chunks of beef.

Rendang dish malaysia

10 – JUMPING CHICKEN

This one is a little more out there, but if you’re an adventurous eater it’s one for you to try! Jumping chicken isn’t actually chicken… but grilled frog! You’re in Malaysia, might as well give it a try!

11 – FRIED NOODLES

You will find two main types of noodles in your local Malay dishes. Mee (the yellow ones) and Koay Teow (fat, flat white ones). Fried noodles of all kinds are some of the most delicious dishes out there!

Fried Noodles dish malaysia

12 – CHAR KUAY TEOW

Char Kuay Teow is directly translated to “stir-fried rice noodles” and it is a national favourite. Served with prawns or chicken and cooked in pork belly fat and dark soy sauce (plus some bean sprouts), it’s delicious… but known for its high-calorie count!

Char Kuay Teow dish malaysia

13 – MEE GORENG

Mee Goreng is a savoury noodle dish including a mix of ingredients, usually fish cakes, chicken and prawns. The flavours are a mix of garlic, spices and sweet soy sauce and the dish is served topped with red chillies, lime and crispy fried onions. This is actually a traditional Indonesian dish, but it’s just as good in Kuala Lumpur as well!

14 – PISANG GORENG

After all these fried noodles, savoury soups and grilled meats, it’s time for a snack! Pisang goreng is deep fried banana. It’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, absolutely delicious! You can find them all around Kuala Lumpur, especially at the hawker stalls. 

Pisang Goreng dish malaysia

15 – DURIAN

Known throughout Asia as the King of Fruits, its spiky shell is filled with a creamy core that so many tourists find… disgusting. Most can’t even stomach the smell, let alone attempt to taste it. 

durian in kuala lumpur

16 – KOPI

Kopi is Malaysia’s local version of coffee. You’ll need to know the lingo to get your order right, as there are different terms of what is included in your kopi. Some popular ones are:

  • Kopi-O – Black coffee with sugar
  • Kopi-C – Coffee with condensed milk (very sweet!)
  • Kopi Kosong – Black coffee, no milk or sugar
  • Kopi Sua – Double shot
coffee in kuala lumpur

17 – CENDOL

Cendol is probably the most popular dessert in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It’s made of bean or rice flour, turned into a jelly and shaped like noodles. Cendol is usually served with shaved ice, palm sugar syrup and coconut milk. Yum!

Cendol dish malaysia

RELATED READ: 12 Things to Do in KL (Kuala Lumpur), Tours, Restaurants & More

19 Best restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Now that you know all about the BEST food in Kuala Lumpur, let’s find out about some of the best Malaysian restaurants. The special section below is divided into 5 different sub-categories: street food stalls, breakfast places, lunch, dinner and fine dining restaurants.

Here are the best local restaurants in the city:

Best street food in KL

Best street food in KL

One of the top places to go if you want to try the most famous food in Kuala Lumpur is definitely the hawker stalls at the numerous street food markets around the city. 

If you’re after something fancy, this is not the place for you. But if you want a dining experience that is authentic, you’ll find it at the food markets! This is also where you’ll find cheap and nice food in KL.

Little plastic stools are set up around shared tables where both locals and tourists tuck into a mix of Malay specialities. You’ll see spiky durian fruit hanging from the tops of carts, satay sticks sizzling over a charcoal fire and large woks tempting you towards them with a spicy aroma.

Here is where you’ll find some of the best food court selections:

JALAN ALOR STREET FOOD MARKET

If you haven’t got long in KL, this is the place to go to try a little bit of everything that Kuala Lumpur’s food has to offer. It’s a buzzing night market in the bustling Bukit Bintang district where you’ll find little stalls selling all sorts of local delights. It’s busy, hectic and slightly overwhelming, but that somehow adds to the excitement of the whole experience. As you walk through the market, stall owners call you over, persuading you to look at their menus as they try to entice you to take a seat at their tables. This is definitely where you’ll find some of the best Kuala Lumpur street food!

HUTONG FOOD COURT

Hutong Food Court is located at the lower level of Lo 10 Shopping Mall and it’s really charming – the entire place is made to resemble the narrow alleyways of Beijing. It’s like a food village where you’ll find tons of different stalls selling fried fish, soups, barbecued meat, fried noodles and everything in-between.

CHINATOWN

Chinatown is scattered with lots of food stalls selling all kinds of Chinese dishes. If you’re craving something sweet, I recommend checking out Famous Kim Soya Bean – a sweet street stall on Jalan Petaling in Chinatown, right in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. They serve tau fu fa, a type of delicious bean curd with black sugar syrup. Don’t you worry, it’s not as sweet as it sounds!

TIP: Make sure you don’t rush in and stuff yourself at the first stall you see. Take your time to walk around to check out everything there is on offer. Get a few little things across a couple of different stalls so that you get to sample a bit of everything. There is a lot to try, and if your taste buds are in any way as curious as mine, you’ll want to try it all!

Where to have breakfast in KL (+ brunch)

good places for brunch in kl

RELATED READ: 13 Best Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in KL, Malaysia

I have written a special article dedicated entirely to the best spots where you can eat my favourite meal of the day in Kuala Lumpur – and you can find it on the link above. But I’ll also make a short round-up below in case you need it:

Where to have lunch in KL

Where to have lunch in KL

There are SO many amazing places to go for delish lunch food in Kuala Lumpur! Here’s my selection:

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

Where to eat dinner in KL

Where to eat dinner in KL

Fine dining restaurants in Kuala Lumpur

Fine dining restaurants in Kuala Lumpur

RELATED READ: Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

BONUS: Join a Kuala Lumpur food tour

Kuala Lumpur food tour

In case you don’t have a lot of time on your hands but you still want to experience the best of Kuala Lumpur’s gastronomy (especially the street food), here’s my best tip: join a food tour! The food tours I selected below are hosted by professional local guides that will take you to all the important hotspots. Tasting the best local foods in Kuala Lumpur on a busy street while taking in the vibe of the city – doesn’t that sound good?

Here’s my selection of great food tours in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:

This was my complete guide that covers all foodie subjects in this city: where to eat in Kuala Lumpur for all occasions and preferences, what dishes to try and whether or not you should join a food tour. With 17 local dishes and 19 foodie locations to check out for breakfast, lunch, street food, dinner and fine dining, I’m absolutely convinced you’ll find the best restaurant in Kuala Lumpur in one of my lists above!

As I mentioned below, the food in Kuala Lumpur is simply incredible and tasting as many local delicacies is a must-do while you’re there. And this guide is here to help.

In case you need more help with your itinerary for the city, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about Kuala Lumpur. And here you can read all about my adventures in Malaysia!

xoxo,

Melissa

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13 Best Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in KL, Malaysia

Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but they also know that brunch is the one you’re more realistically going to wake up for! In case you’re looking for some incredibly good spots for brunch in KL, you have opened the right article!

Personally, I love brunch. I love coffee, tea and I (shamelessly) love hipster hangouts that play Vance Joy with a moustached, top-knot wielding hunk behind the coffee machine.

If you feel the same, below I’ve made a list of 3 of the best brunch and coffee spots around Kuala Lumpur (hipster barman subject to availability). I’ve also created a list of bonus recommendations at the end of the article that I didn’t get to try out myself; fear not, they come recommended with great reviews and they’re pretty popular.

Let’s begin:

3 Amazing places for the best brunch in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – GATW approved!

1 – Merchant’s Lane

Merchant’s Lane Kuala Lumpur

Dubbed as the most Instagrammable coffee shop in Kuala Lumpur, you’ll find this café tucked away off the busy streets of Chinatown. Once you arrive, you’ll understand why this café is so popular among the snap-happy ‘grammers. The exposed walls are covered in leafy greens and floral decor, rattan chairs with colourful cushions are dotted around wooden tables and you’ll find picture-perfect corners to settle into while you dig into your dish from their Asian fusion menu.

Yes, this place is very aesthetically pleasing, but this doesn’t mean their food, drinks or service is anything less. I personally loved the chill atmosphere; plus, lots of locals frequent this place, which means it’s more than your classic tourist trap. Would definitely return here! 

NOTE: Yes, this place is super popular but, unfortunately (or luckily, I’m not sure), they don’t take reservations. They work on a simple walk-in system, which means waiting time will depend on your luck!

Merchant’s Lane Kuala Lumpur menu

WHAT WE HAD:

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS: 

Weekdays from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Weekends from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

Closed on Wednesdays

ADDRESS: 150 Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

FACEBOOK: Merchant’s Lane 美真林

FOR THE GRAM: @merchantslane

RELATED READ: 12 Things to Do in KL (Kuala Lumpur), Tours, Restaurants & More

2 – LOKL

LOKL Kuala Lumpur

I love the ethos at LOKL, the pride they have for being locals from the neighbourhood and their aim to create a shared space where everyone is welcome to meet and eat together. They promise you’ll always find a friendly face there and they encourage you to come to them with questions you may have on what to see or do in the area… Isn’t that absolutely amazing? And they’re right in the historical heart of Kuala Lumpur.

You can get both western coffee and local kopi at LOKL, which is a great way to gain some confidence in making your first kopi order in Malaysia. What is a kopi, you might ask? In short, kopi is black coffee made with Robusta beans instead of Arabica, which have a higher amount of caffeine. Energy rush, we welcome you!

Their food menu is very good and it offers an Asian spin on your international favourites, with a lot of thought put into the flavour combos.

LOKL Kuala Lumpur menu

WHAT WE HAD:

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

ADDRESS: 30 Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

WEBSITE: loklcoffee.com

FOR THE GRAM: @loklcoffee

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

3 – Leaf & Co

You’ll find Leaf and Co. inside Mingle Hostel at Julan Sultan KL, right near the well-known shopping street called Petaling Street. The décor is cool with a retro swing chair set in the corner, a mishmash of stools and shabby-chic walls with peeling paints and wallpapers. The style is that of a post-modern kopitiam that perfectly matches their menu of traditional Malay dishes with an international twist.

This historical coffee shop is a perfect choice for the best brunch in KL with Banh Mi sandwiches, chicken satay, doughnuts, marshmallows, pasta, coffee, milkshakes and everything in-between.

Leaf & Co Kuala Lumpur food

WHAT WE HAD:

USEFUL INFO:

OPENING HOURS: Daily from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM.

ADDRESS: 53 Mingle Hostel, Jalan Sultan, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

FACEBOOK: leaf & co. cafe

FOR THE GRAM: @leafandco_cafe

RELATED READ: Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

BONUS: 10 Other notable brunch places in KL

notable brunch places in KL

If you’re a breakfast or brunch lover just like me (seriously, I could eat breakfast food any time of the day!), then 3 recommendations are definitely not enough. After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day and we need to eat every day, right?

This is exactly why, after extensive research, I made this additional bonus list with some of the best brunch places in KL I could find on the web. I, unfortunately, didn’t get to try these spots out, but I’ve only heard amazing things about them. Maybe you’ll check them out for your next Sunday brunch in KL, eh?

1 – BREAKFAST THIEVES KL

This super cool and super popular KL breakfast cafe is definitely one of the best choices out there. They have everything you can think of, from the classic French breakfast dish Croque Madame to granola, toast, fresh fruit and, of course, some excellent coffee. Breakfast Thieves was born in Melbourne, Australia, but their location in Kuala Lumpur has increased in popularity as well recently – and with good reason!

Find it on Google Maps here.

2 – FEEKA COFFEE ROASTERS

 If you’re looking for specialty coffee paired with filling brunch dishes and incredible desserts, this should be your choice. A visit to Feeka in Changkat Bukit Bintang means indulging in delicious food (ricotta pancakes, eggs on toast, poached eggs, smashed avo on sourdough toast, tacos and lots more) while relaxing in their cosy, sun-drenched tiny front yard.

Find it on Google Maps here.

3 – THE HUNGRY TAPIR

If you love pastel pink, search no further than this cute food spot on Petaling Street. They have lots of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes on their menu (sweet potato fries, vegan meatballs, miso ramen, tempeh bowls, veggie burgers and more!). And seasonal cocktails, too!

Find it on Google Maps here.

4 – NIKO NEKO MATCHA

Matcha lovers (myself included), this one’s for you! Niko Neko is known to serve some of the best matcha drinks in the entire city, from colourful lattes to green tea mocktails. On their website, you can also find matcha powders to buy, because yes, they make their own!

Find it on Google Maps here and here.

5 – NIPPORI BISTRO

I like big breakfasts and I cannot lie! Nippori Bristo is a well-known Asian Fusion restaurant that also has a special breakfast menu that combines English and Japanese dishes, which sounds absolutely wonderful if you ask me. Regardless of whether you love sweet or savoury brunch dishes, you’ll find lots of options here. One note, though: this place has a reservation-only policy and you can reserve your spot using the link on their Instagram profile @nipporibistro.

Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: Ultimate Foodie Guide: Where to Eat in KL, Malaysia + Foods to Try

good places for brunch in kl

6 – BIRCH

If you’re up for a bit of waiting (especially if you’re visiting during the weekend), this is where you’ll find (probably) the best Sunday brunch in KL. Shakshouka, a classic English breakfast, fried chicken burgers and more, plus a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere – for me, this sounds like the perfect brunch combo!

Find it on Google Maps here.

7 – COMMON MAN COFFEE ROASTERS KL

This place might be for the common man, but their coffee brews are definitely not common! In fact, some people mention that here at CMCR you can find some of the best coffee in the entire city. And their breakfast-brunch menu is pretty damn cool too: fluffy pancakes, veggie dishes and club sandwiches. This one may be a bit on the pricier side, but the entire setting is surely worth it. Plus, they have an all-day brunch menu!

Find it on Google Maps here.

8 – YEAST BISTRONOMY

If you’re looking for a classic Parisian restaurant in the heart of Bangsar, Yeast Bistronomy is definitely the best breakfast cafe in KL. Their main chef worked in Michelin-starred restaurants, so you’ll know for sure that the food will be top-notch. You can choose from classic egg dishes, fresh pastries and some French staples such as smoked duck, for example. 

Find it on Google Maps here.

9 – NUTMEG

Here’s another KL breakfast place that offers an all-day breakfast menu – one of my favourite concepts ever! They have lots of delicious dishes on their menu to choose from such as classic French toast, sausages, cakes and pastries, all made in-house, which I think is pretty great. Plus, they periodically showcase local artists in their cafe bar, which is designed to look homey and chill.

Find it on Google Maps here.

10 – PICKLE & FIG

Let’s end this list in style with one of the most stylish spots out there for a nice breakfast in KL, regardless of whether you’re going out during a weekday or weekend. Their menu is bursting with incredible combos: pastrami sandwiches, colourful smoothies, granola bowls, seafood pasta, luxurious salads and more. The interior design is super pretty as well and the entire place has lots of potential for Instagrammable pictures!

Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

This was my complete list of superb brunch spots in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! Regardless if you’re a passionate foodie looking for the best breakfast in KL or a generously-sized brunch at any given hour during the day or evening, I’m absolutely sure you’ll find a perfect choice for you in one of my two lists above. The first list presents 3 gorgeous brunch spots that I visited and tested myself, while in the second, I included some extra options that are super popular among tourists and locals alike, but that I didn’t get to visit myself. Regardless, I’m sure you’ll be in good hands!

I’m 100% sure I missed lots of other good brunch spots too – there are so many in KL, it would be impossible to combine them all in a single post! But if you have a favourite spot that I missed, do let me know in the comments below and maybe I’ll check it out during my next trip to Kuala Lumpur.

In case you need more help planning your trip to Kuala Lumpur, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about this amazing city. And here you’ll find all my articles and stories about Malaysia. Enjoy your reading!

xoxo,

Melissa

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Pin it for later!

Brunch Guide to Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
Unmissable Brunch Spots in Kuala Lumpur

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Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is one of the most diverse capitals in Southeast Asia, showcasing a beautiful mix of cultures. KL has so many incredible places to explore, and I’ve been talking about the best ones in detail in my complete guide to the city. But today I want to select only the best Instagrammable places in KL where you can get snap-happy and take some unique images!

This list of Instagrammable spots combines some iconic attractions, rainbow stairs, gorgeous temples, street art, natural wonders and more. 

Scroll down to find out more!

Top 10 Kuala Lumpur Instagram spots

1 – Petronas Twin Towers

Melissa looks up at the Petronas Twin Towers from the KLCC park.
Melissa stands in front of the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

I guess the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur city centre needs no detailed introduction, as I’m sure we’ve all seen at least a couple of photos of this iconic landmark on the Internet. This unique and insanely large complex of twin buildings connected by a Sky Bridge is an obvious favourite Instagram-worthy spot to photograph in Kuala Lumpur!

And because this is one of the best photo spots in Kuala Lumpur for some unforgettable pictures, I’ve found two great options for you:

FROM KLCC PARK

You can get a great shot of the towers from KLCC Park, which is right near it. Remember to also visit at night when the building lights up!

Address: KLCC Park, Kuala Lumpur City Centre

FROM AN INFINITY POOL

Many hotels and Airbnb’s in the KLCC district have rooftop infinity pools offering stunning city views with the Petronas Towers as a backdrop. Sunrise, sunset… any time of day really, you’ll get an epic photo of KL’s cityscape!

There are so many amazing options for accommodation in KL to choose from, two of my favourites (which have incredible infinity pool views of the Petronas Towers are):

RELATED READ: In case you’re looking for more accommodation options, I recommend checking out my dedicated article: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

2 – Batu Caves

Melissa swishes her skirt at the entrance to the rainbow steps of the Batu Caves in Malaysia.
Batu Caves Kuala Lumpur

This location is a must-visit place for two reasons: its cultural importance to the Hindu religion (they’re dedicated to Lord Murugan) and its stunning colourful 2018 renovation! The Instagrammable highlight of Batu Caves Selangor is, without a doubt, the stairway leading to the entry of the caves, where you will find 272 rainbow coloured steps leading up to the temple caves. Perfect choice if you’re looking for colourful Instagrammable spots!

Address: Batu Caves, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor

RELATED READ: Complete Guide: Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

3 – Kwai Chai Hong Street in Chinatown

Kwai Chai Hong Street in Chinatown 1
Kwai Chai Hong Street in Chinatown

This famous Chinatown street is a place full of history. Once home to the first Chinese community in Malaysia and preserved as it was in the 1960s, the pre-war buildings were left ramshackle until their 2019 seven-month-long restoration. Now, it is one of the coolest Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur, due to the incredible, lively painted pieces found on the buildings’ walls.

Alternatively, you can also check out Petaling Street in Chinatown as well.

Address: Lorong Panggung, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

RELATED READ: 12 Things to Do in KL (Kuala Lumpur), Tours, Restaurants & More

4 – Thean Hou Temple

Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur
Thean Hou Temple

On top of a hill southwest of central KL, you will find a gorgeous temple – Thean Hou, one of the oldest temples in South East Asia, dating back to 1894. Also known as the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven, this traditional Chinese temple is colourful and simply put, absolutely stunning.

Address: Thean Hou Temple, 65, Persiaran Endah, 50460 Kuala Lumpur

5 – Menara Tower Sky Box

Melissa sitting in the Sky Box at the KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur
Melissa sitting upside down in the Sky Box at KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur

Atop the Manara Tower (also known as the KL Tower) and 300 meters up, this view beats the Petronas Towers’ height by a whopping 100 meters and provides the best view of the city. The glass structure is almost fully transparent, so as long as you’re not scared of heights, there’s room for lots of out the box ideas.

Address: Manara Tower, 50250 Kuala Lumpur

RELATED READ: Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

6 – Masjid Wilayah Mosque

Masjid Wilayah Mosque
Masjid Wilayah Mosque KL

Forget about Abu Dhabi, here’s Masjid Wilayah! Also known as the Federal Territory Mosque (due to its location in Wilayah Persekutuan), this dreamy architectural wonder is one of the largest mosques in Malaysia. Constructed from 1998 onwards, this site presents a more modern look. I recommend you take your time exploring different angles here, as this spot allows for a lot of creativity.

Address: Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

7 – Perdana Botanical Gardens

Perdana Botanical Gardens
Perdana Botanical Gardens KL

The Perdana Botanical Garden is such a pretty place to spend an afternoon exploring the man-made lake, flower gardens and animal parks. Its modern, yellow tree structure of the Perdana Canopy is my favourite location in the gardens, offering some insane architecture. Ah, and let’s not forget about the Orchid Garden – absolutely stunning!

Address: Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

8 – KL Forest Eco Park

KL Forest Eco Park
KL Forest Eco Park

Located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Forest Eco Park KL and its Lake Gardens comprise one of the oldest rainforest reserves in Malaysia. The canopy walk in the forest park is really nice and you’ll get the opportunity for some awesome snaps crossing the jungle bridge. Just imagine you’ll have the Kuala Lumpur skyline as a backdrop – cool, right? Oh, and don’t forget to check out Laman Perdana at the Lake Gardens (Taman Tasik Perdana) as well for some awesome photos with the geometrical yellow trees.

Address: KL Forest Eco Park, Jalan Puncak, 50250 Kuala Lumpur

RELATED READ: Ultimate Foodie Guide: Where to Eat in KL, Malaysia + Foods to Try

9 – Bukit Bintang street art

Bukit Bintang street art
Bukit Bintang street art KL

Once troubled streets that weren’t considered safe for tourists or locals, Bukit Bintang has gentrified into a colourful and vibrant place. Changkat Bukit Bintang and Jalan Alor Street are now famous for their vivid street art pieces and have quickly become two of the best places to go for urban photo ops! 

Address: Graffiti Alley, 64 Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang

10 – Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Inside the Sultan Abdul Samad building.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Sultan Abdul Samad is a stunningly iconic building located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It has Moorish architecture with a shiny copper dome and provides plenty of photo ops!

You can go to Dataran Merdeka Square if you want to take some beautiful pictures of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building from the best angles.

Address: Jln Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur

RELATED READ: 13 Best Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in KL, Malaysia

BONUS: More Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

In case it’s not your first time in Kuala Lumpur or if you’re looking for some more, lesser-known photo spots in the city, take a look at the list below which include some newly opened locations as well:

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for KL

Picture of canon camera on a deck in nature.

Kuala Lumpur provides amazing photo opportunities. If you want to make the best of them, make sure to pack your best camera and lenses. Here is what we have in our gear:

This was my complete list of photo spots in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! From the well-known Thean Hou Temple to a breathtaking mosque, the streets of Bukit Bintang, the rainbow stairway at Batu Caves, the lush KL Forest Eco Park, this list includes the most iconic landmarks in the city, as well as a bonus section with some new hidden gems. 

If you’re looking for more information for your upcoming trip to the city such as the top things to do in Kuala Lumpur during your itinerary, where to stay or where to eat, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about this wonderful city. And here you will find all my articles about Malaysia.

xoxo,

Melissa

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3 Most Instagrammable Spots in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

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Complete Guide: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

In case you have Kuala Lumpur on your bucket list and you’re actively planning a trip to the city, you should prepare to be amazed! This is one of the most mesmerizing destinations in Asia and a complex city. If you’re wondering where to stay in Kuala Lumpur before your trip, I got you! This guide will tell you everything you need to know, together with some of the best hotels in the city I could find.

Kuala Lumpur is an eclectic metropolis where you can enjoy everything from world-class shopping to sites that represent Malaysia’s rich culture. There is a lot going on in KL; with many museums, the famous Petronas Towers, shopping centres filled with both designer and local brands, and restaurants that serve the best local and international cuisines.

If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur soon, here are some of the best areas to stay with some of my favourite hotels in each of them:

The best area to stay in Kuala Lumpur by type of traveller

Before jumping right into it and talking about the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur, I feel like a short round-up of the best areas in the city broken down by interests is well-needed, especially for first-time visitors. Here’s a useful guide I put together for you:

For a better idea of the city, check out the map below:

where to stay in kl map of the best areas

RELATED READ: 12 Things to Do in KL (Kuala Lumpur), Tours, Restaurants & More

Kuala Lumpur City Center / KLCC Area

petronas twin towers kuala lumpur city centre
The Petronas twin towers from the ground.

The KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) is truly where all the action happens in the city. Located at the heart of it all, KLCC is the perfect neighbourhood to stay in, especially if you’re a first-time tourist to Kuala Lumpur. Being central to most of the tourist spots (Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park, KL Tower) dining options, shopping centres and transportation hubs make it the easiest place to book your room if you’re hoping to navigate Kuala Lumpur by public transport or on foot.

It’s also the perfect location if you’re only staying in the city for a few days, as it holds so many of the city’s top tourist destinations along with KL’s best shopping malls. The popular Suria KLCC has a reputation for being Malaysia’s grandest shopping centre which, in my eyes, is the perfect excuse for a hefty dose of retail therapy! Hehe!

RELATED READ: Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur KLCC

MY TOP PICK: Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur – This one’s a gem among all hotels in KL! If you’re dreaming of staying in a superb room with floor to ceiling windows and a rooftop infinity pool at your disposal, then Mandarin Oriental is your choice. It’s basically a 5-star luxury hotel that offers everything you can dream of – and more!

Pool at the Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur

Other accommodations in KLCC that I would recommend:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Bukit Bintang

Melissa sits on the stairs of the colourful graffiti streets of Bukit Bintang in KL.
The area of Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Known as Kuala Lumpur’s shopping and entertainment district, Bukit Bintang area is another good, central location to pick a hotel in. With a bit more culture and more of a local feel than the super popular KLCC area, Bukit Bintang is an excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for some world-class shopping! This neighbourhood is overflowing with shopping mall options, bars, cafes, restaurants, night markets and hawker-style eateries that will surely keep you busy during your stay. And did I mention that Bukit Bintang is THE best area to stay for shopping?!

If you find it hard to choose, please know that Bukit Bintang and KLCC are equally amazing locations, you just need to figure out what type of action you want to be close to! You simply cannot get bored in either Bukit Bintang or in the KLCC city centre!

RELATED READ: 13 Best Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in KL, Malaysia

Where to stay in Bukit Bintang

MY TOP PICK: JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur – In case you’re looking for a superb, upscale hotel in Bukit Bintang that offers unforgettable city views and an outdoor swimming pool, look no further! This is hands-down one of the best luxury hotels in Kuala Lumpur, located only minutes away by foot from multiple shopping complexes. For example, Starhill Gallery Mall is directly connected to the JW Marriott hotel!

Room at the JW Marriott in Kuala Lumpur

Other accommodations in Bukit Bintang that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Chinatown

Melissa stands in the cool graffiti streets of Chinatown in KL.
Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

A great option for the budget traveller, Chinatown or Pasar Sensi is one of the cheapest neighbourhoods to stay in Kuala Lumpur. In fact, this is a backpacker’s heaven because of the many cheap accommodations that you find around the area and delicious street food places that you can try. Worry-not, as you’ll still be relatively close to the major tourist spots in Kuala Lumpur, such as the world-famous Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park as well.

Chinatown is all about shopping for knock-offs along Petaling Street, sampling street food from hole-in-the-wall stalls, dining in hip little cafes and marvelling the street art at Kwai Chai Hong. Even if you don’t choose to stay in this area, it should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur!

RELATED READ: Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

Where to stay in Chinatown

MY TOP PICK: The Majestic Hotel – I know I mentioned before that Chinatown is one of the top places to stay in Kuala Lumpur if you’re looking for the best hotels for cheap deals. But this doesn’t mean the area doesn’t have its upscale options too! If you’re dreaming of an authentic stay in KL, this accommodation offers neo-classical, colonial-style décor and excellent service. Outdoor swimming pool included!

A spacious hotel room at the Majestic Hotel in KL.

Other accommodations in Chinatown that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

KL Sentral

Petronas towers in a foggy day in Kuala Lumpur

In case you’re looking to splurge on 5-star hotels, then KL Sentral is one of the best neighborhoods in Kuala Lumpur! This area surrounds KL Sentral Station, which means that, if you choose to stay here, you’ll be conveniently located close to one of the main transportation hubs of KL. This makes KL Sentral an amazing place to stay in case you’re planning any day trips, as you can easily access other parts of Malaysia from this train station.

In terms of accommodation, there are many upscale, luxurious hotels around (family-friendly hotels, too!), but also some more budget friendly options too, of course. You’ll also have NU Sentral Shopping Mall close-by, with plenty of shopping opportunities.

Where to stay in KL Sentral

MY TOP PICK: Le Méridien – This is a great place to stay in this area and my top recommendation! This hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, gorgeous rooms, 4 restaurants, and stunning panoramic views over the city. Definitely one of the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur if you’re dreaming of an unforgettable vacation!

Pool at Le Meridien in Kuala Lumpur

Other accommodations in KL Sentral that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Chow Kit

Melissa sits in her hotel bed, looking out the window at the Petronas Towers in KL.
Infinity pool at a hotel in the area of Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur.

Chow Kit is, hands-down, one of the most underrated areas around. If you’re looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur located in an authentic part of the city, away from the hustle and bustle of KLCC and the numerous shopping malls, this one’s for you. This is the area where you can experience and enjoy a local vibe and traditional atmosphere, so I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to travellers who aren’t coming to the city for the first time.

Local street markets, Indian eateries and real life vibes – if this is what you’re looking for instead of groups of tourists, then you should consider picking a hotel here.

RELATED READ: Complete Guide: Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Where to stay in Chow Kit

MY TOP PICK: Sheraton Imperial – If you’re dreaming of picture-perfect views of the city, this is one of the top hotels in this area! Outdoor swimming pool, 5 on-site restaurants, superb, spacious rooms – this is what you’ll find in this accommodation – and more! In my opinion, this is one of the most luxurious Kuala Lumpur hotels!

The pool facilities atthe Sheraton Imperial in Kuala Lumpur.

Other accommodations in Chow Kit that I would recommend:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Aaand we have reached the end of my complete guide to the best areas to stay in KL and top accommodations! In this post I have talked about the most famous and convenient neighbourhoods in the city, from KLCC with its Petronas Twin Towers to Bukit Bintang and everything else in-between. I have also given you my hand-picked hotel recommendations, so I hope you have already found the perfect hotel in Kuala Lumpur for you here!

Kuala Lumpur will surely surprise you with everything that it has to offer. Unlike what most people think, this city is much more than just the Petronas Towers – it’s actually grown into a melting pot of different cultures where you can experience great shopping, dining, history and culture!

In case you want to read more about Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I recommend checking out my articles about the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur right here!

xoxo,

Melissa

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Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) is one of the most famous attractions in Malaysia! There’s an observation deck, a sky deck, a revolving restaurant and more, all offering incredible views of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

But which one of these is worth buying a ticket for? Is the Sky Box KL Tower really worth its hype?

I’ll tell you everything you need to know in the article below!

Quick facts about the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower

Birdseye view of the Menara Tower in KL.

The iconic KL Tower is located on a hill in the city centre of Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, atop Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. It is the tallest freestanding tower in the city (followed by the Petronas Twin Towers with a difference of 100m) and the seventh-tallest in the world. Standing at 1,381 feet or 421 meters, this communication tower dominates the city’s skyline and offers the best view of Kuala Lumpur.

It’s true, Menara may not be as famous as the neighbouring Petronas Twin Towers, but visitors are pulled in by its many attractions, mainly the Sky Deck which provides THE best 360-degree bird’s eye view. The reviews are saying it and I’m here to confirm, but there are a few things you need to know about this experience, all of which will help you decide if you want to add the Sky Box KL Tower to your itinerary in Kuala Lumpur!

What is the Sky Box?

Melissa sits in the glass Sky Box KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur

You have 3 different spots (4 with the restaurant) to visit at the KL Tower, each with its own price:

There’s a fast elevator taking you from the ground level to the top of the tower and all these different platforms. The most popular attraction is, without a doubt, the SkyBox at the Sky Deck. A glass observatory protruding from the Sky Deck ledge at 300 metres above the ground (yes, glass floor included!). There is something super cool about seeing the world drop below your feet, but this glass box sure isn’t for those with a fear of heights!

With fully transparent glass walls and floor, this vertigo-inducing view of Kuala Lumpur makes you feel like you’re literally on top of the city. Inspired by the Eureka Skydeck 88 in Melbourne, the Sky Box at Menara Kuala Lumpur has become one of KL’s most Instagrammable spots.

You’ll get access to the Sky Box if you buy the separate ticket (it’s not included in your admission to the Observation Deck). However, the experience is all a bit rushed when it comes to the amount of time you get in the box. I’ll tell you all about my experience below.

Is it worth it?

Melissa sitting upside down in the Sky Box at KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur
Melissa sitting inside the Sky Box in the Menara Tower in Kuala Lumpur

There are 2 Sky Boxes on the Sky Deck – A and B; and they both provide a different view of the city. When you get to the Sky Deck, your group is given a ticket with a number (kind of like waiting in line at a deli). You wait your turn on the Skydeck until your number is called.

We waited 35 minutes until our number was called. Even though we enjoyed the Sky Deck view of the city, it ended up feeling like too long a wait, as there is nothing really to do on this level apart from admire the view. Also, limited seating on the Sky Deck had us feeling a bit tired and impatient. Once our number was finally called, it switched to a bit of a mad rush! We headed to Sky Box A and the guard at the box asked us to take off our shoes to head onto the glass. Before our shoes were fully off, the guard had punched a button to start a count-down timer. Our allowed time was literally running out.

We were told we would get 5min in the box, but once we were in there, we were told it was only 60 seconds per group! We frantically hurried out onto the glass and everything became a bit of a blur as we rushed the experience. There was hardly time to get comfortable walking on the glass, enjoy the view, get a cool snap and figure out what we were even looking at. Before we knew it, we were being hastily ushered out of the box and it was all over.

MY CONCLUSION:

All honesty, the whole experience left me feeling a bit deflated. It had taken up our entire morning and, for me personally, I regretted wasting the money and – especially – time. From the moment we arrived at Menara Kuala Lumpur to the moment we got back down to ground level, it had been 3 hours!

It is a cool concept – but no – I don’t think it is at all worth it and I wouldn’t do it again. If you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur, I can think of much better ways to spend half a day of your precious vacation time.

RELATED READ: You can find my sightseeing recommendations in my dedicated post: 12 Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur – Tours, Restaurants & More

KL Tower tickets

Cityscape of Kuala Lumpur taken from the KL Tower

There is a different KL Tower ticket price and different combos to take into consideration depending on what you want to visit in the surrounding area. Here are all the available options below:

Observation Deck

Sky Deck (includes Observation Deck + Sky Box)

Observation Deck + Blue Coral Aquarium

Observation Deck + Mini Zoo

Observation Deck + Upside Down House

Observation Deck + XD Theatre

There are also some combo tickets available for the Sky Deck instead of the Observation Deck. You can buy single or combo tickets on the official KL Tower Menara website right here.

TOP TIP: I found way cheaper single tickets on Klook right here – 9.65 US$ for the Observation Deck and 21.25 US$ for the combo ticket. 100% recommended!

Best tours of Menara KL Tower

Alternatively, I recommend joining a group tour with a knowledgeable guide if you want to find out more! Or you can have a combo experience that includes some other important attractions for your trip.

The KL Tower as seen from the Eco Forest Park in Kuala Lumpur.
The Menara Tower surrounded by fluffy clouds.

Here are the best tours I can recommend:

Best time to visit KL Tower

Melissa sitting in the Sky Box at the KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur
Melissa looks out over the city of Kuala Lumpur from the Sky Deck at the Menara Tower.

KL TOWER OPENING HOURS

Open every day from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, except on holidays and special events.

Since the observation decks can get crowded, especially in the afternoon, it’s best to visit in the morning hours when there are fewer visitors and you can take your time taking photos of the city. Another great idea is to visit in the evening at sunset for some striking colours in the sky.

We went during the day, but I imagine it’s probably also pretty awesome to visit the KL Tower at night, for a different kind of city view. You could always book a table for dinner at Atmosphere 360 (the revolving restaurant) but you’ll be paying the price for that view. For example, at the time of writing this article, afternoon tea is 75 MYR/person (18 US$) and a lunch set meal is 95 MYR (23 US$).

HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND THERE:

I recommend you spend at least 1 hour to fully explore the KL Tower and Sky Box, to get to the top of the tower and take all the pictures you need. However, be prepared for the experience to take much longer due to the long queues to get back down the tower again.

TOP TIP: Make sure you check the weather beforehand, as the Sky Deck can be closed on certain days depending on this. A clear, sunny day is what you should be aiming for.

How to get to the Menara KL Tower

Where is the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower?

KL Tower address: No. 2 Jalan Punchak Off, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur. 
Co-ordinates3.152601, 101.703505

Check out the exact location of the KL tower in the map below:

Map of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia with KLCC and KL Tower signalled

TAXI

Since the Kuala Lumpur Tower is located near the KL city centre, it’s pretty easy to book a taxi or jump in a Grab if you are staying in a central location. It takes around 5 minutes to get from the Petronas Towers to the KL Tower Menara and should cost no more than RM10 (2.50 US$).

KL MONORAIL

Take the KL monorail to Bukit Nanas station, then walk to Jalan Puncak. There is a free shuttle that will take you to KL Tower from there. The free shuttle runs every 15 minutes, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

TRAIN

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend taking the train as the stations are not situated anywhere near the KL tower. You will still need to grab a taxi from the nearest station or walk for 30 minutes, which isn’t comfortable in the hot and humid weather in Kuala Lumpur. If you do want to take the train, the closest stations are Dang Wangi LRT Station and Masjid Jamek LRT Station.

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

My best tips for visiting KL Tower

Views across the city of KL from the Menara Tower.

So, if you do decide to go – these 4 helpful tips and insights are super important for you! Commit them to memory!

  1. Try and get your deli ticket for Sky Box A as Sky Box B does not have views of the Petronas Towers.
  2. If you are visiting as a group, ask to get 1 ticket each when claiming your Sky Box tickets. This will collectively get you all a bit more time out on the glass and give you time to take individual photos.
  3. Check the weather before heading to the KL Tower as the Sky Deck closes to visitors with poor weather conditions. It’s a safety thing. Basically, lightning equals no Sky Deck access.
  4. This one is the most important tip I can give you! – The longest part of the entire experience is getting up and down the tower. Specifically getting down the tower! Usually, you get sent up to the Sky Deck first, then visit the Sky Box and end on the Observation Deck. Once on the Observation Deck, there are HUGE queues to get on the elevator back down. We were shocked at the line which wrapped itself all the way around the floor. Here’s what we did to skip the queue and save some time. We kept our tickets to the Sky Deck and went to find the stairs. We showed the man on the door our tickets that proved we had paid to visit the Sky Deck. Then I asked if we could head back up for another look. We were granted access to walk up 2 flights of stairs to the Sky Deck. From here, there was no queue. We jumped straight on the elevator all the way down. Cheeky I know, but time is money people! 😉

RELATED READ: Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

Other attractions near Menara KL Tower

Now I know we’ve been talking all about the KL Tower here, also known as the 7th tallest tower in the world, but it’s not the only notable attraction in the area! There are a couple of other cool spots around and within the base of the structure if you feel like going to the top of the tower is not worth it or you simply have a couple more hours to kill in the area.

Landscape of Kuala Lumpur with the KL Tower in the foreground during sunset

These are mainly family-friendly activities such as a Mini Zoo and the Blue Coral Aquarium (don’t forget to get the combo admission if you want to visit them!). Here are a couple of the more interesting ones:

RELATED READ: Complete Guide: Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

BONUS: KL Tower fun facts

Now allow me to get you all hyped up and excited about your upcoming visit to the tower with some fun facts you probably didn’t know!

Melissa sits in the glass sky box in the KL tower, smiling.
Melissa and Guga pose for a photo on the Sky Deck at the Menara KL Tower.

RELATED READ: 13 Best Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in KL, Malaysia

This was my complete guide to the KL Tower, the 7th tallest tower in the world! In this post, I have told you everything you need to know before visiting this famous attraction – if it is worth it to buy a separate ticket to the top of the tower at the Sky Box (the famous glass floor viewing platform), entrance fees, precious tips to know, which tower tours to take, how to get there and everything else in-between.

If you need more helpful information for planning your trip to Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about this city. And here you’ll find all my articles and stories about Malaysia.

xoxo,

Melissa

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Complete Guide: Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Batu Caves are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaysia – and with good reason! The Batu Caves are an incredible limestone hill scattered with 4 different caves. Tourists flock to this interesting sight from all over the world each year (5.000 per day!) and, if you’re going to be one of them soon, this complete guide is here to help! In the post below I will tell you literally EVERYTHING you need to know about visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur.

Are you ready?

First of all, why should I visit the Batu Caves?

Melissa stands at the bottom of the rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves
The colourful rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves.

The Batu Caves are one of Malaysia’s national treasures, hosting the tallest statue of a Hindu deity. I recommend this site to ANYONE visiting Kuala Lumpur, as it’s a real highlight. And this is not even an overstatement!

Sure, Kuala Lumpur by itself is pretty cool and there are countless things to do, see and eat here, but your trip just won’t be the same without seeing the beautiful Batu Caves on the outskirts of the city. They’re full of history, they’re super interesting and they provide countless photo opportunities. Plus, visiting Batu Caves can be as cheap as 5 US$, so why not?!

RELATED READ: In case you’re curious to find out about some other unmissable places in KL, I recommend checking out my dedicated article full of precious info: Complete Guide: 12 Things to Do in KL

Everything you need to know about visiting the Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur

The golden status of the Hindu god Lord Murugan at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Batu Caves Malaysia

Quick info about the Batu Caves

The bright rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves are fast becoming one of the modern wonders of the world ever since its colourful renovation in 2018. With 272 steps leading up to the 4 limestone caves, this place of Hindu worship is more than just an Insta-famous tourist attraction, trust me! Oh, and did I mention the limestone formations are 400 million years old?!

In fact, the Batu Caves are one of the most important Hindu shrines outside of India, especially during the festival called Thaipusam, which sees over 1 million visitors every year.

The caves are dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Murugan. An impressive 50-meter golden statue of him stands guard at the bottom of the Batu Cave stairs. During Thaipusam, Lord Murugan is celebrated with offerings and acts of penance. These are carried out in order for the worshipers to receive forgiveness and relinquish their negative traits.

About the 272 Batu Cave steps: Hey, don’t get discouraged! Although there are 272 stairs until you reach the main temple (Batu Caves Temple Cave), the climb itself isn’t so bad. 272 steps might seem like a lot but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to pretend to check out the view while you take a break. The perfect excuse to catch your breath!

Where are the Batu Caves located?

The Batu Caves are located in Gombak Selangor, around 13 km north of the centre of Kuala Lumpur.

Check out the map below for a clearer idea of where to find them:

Map of Malaysia with the Batu Caves signalled

BATU CAVES ADDRESS: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor

CO-ORDINATES: 3.237874, 101.684026

How to get to Batu Caves

Rapid KL Train in Malaysia

There are various ways you can get to the Batu Caves from central KL, but the two easiest, most direct methods are definitely by taxi or train:

TAXI OR GRAB

30 minutes from the city centre. This is probably the easiest way to get to the Batu Caves, especially if you are hoping to get there early. You can hail a cab for around 20-30 RM (4.90 US$) from central KL or order a Grab (the Asian equivalent of Uber) which is a bit cheaper. If you decide to get a taxi, make sure you ask the driver to turn on the meter to make sure you get the correct price at the end.

TRAIN FROM KL SENTRAL TO BATU CAVES

The most direct journey by public transport is with the KTM Komuter train (the Batu Caves is the last station on the line). The journey will take a bit less than 45 minutes and the ticket costs 2.60 RM (0.60 US$) one-way. Running from 6:45 AM to 11:46 PM, every 30 min – 1 hour. I recommend checking the KTM Komuter timetable here. The caves are only 5 minutes by foot from the Komuter train station.

BUS

You can also take a bus, but I don’t really recommend it – the trip will take close to one hour and the train is way faster and more comfortable than the bus.

TIP: If you are planning to use public transport around Kuala Lumpur a lot, I recommend getting the KL TravelPass which gives you unlimited rides around the city for 2 consecutive days. The pass also works to and from the airport and will save you a bit of cash if you’ll be using it lots! You can buy it at KLIA Ekspres Ticket Counters. Or you can buy it online here. You can find more information about it on the official website here.

Best time to visit Batu Caves

Melissa sits on the rainbow steps of the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur.

Batu Caves opening hours: The Batu Caves are open every day, year-round from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

AIM FOR: If you want to get photos on the stairs without the crowds, you’ll have to get there early, close to the opening time. However, you won’t have it completely to yourself. Hindu monks will be making their way to worship and sleepy monkeys waking up for the day. For me, this is the perfect time to see something authentic. By 9:30 AM the tour buses will start to arrive and the entire place will begin to get crowded.

Also, if you arrive early and want to visit the Dark Cave, you will need to wait as it only opens at 10:00 AM. Alternatively, you can also visit late in the evening, near the closing time.

AVOID: Visiting on weekends or public holidays. During Thaipusam Festival – that’s when Batu Caves are most crowded, but you’re bound to have a special experience.

HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND AT THE BATU CAVES: Around two hours for the entire temple complex. I recommend reserving a half-day for this experience if you consider the travel time as well.

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur – 5 Best Areas and Hotels

What can you see at the Batu Caves, Malaysia

The golden status of the Hindu god Lord Murugan at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Batu Caves Malaysia

There are 4 beautiful caves on-site and one giant statue of Lord Murugan, as follows:

TEMPLE CAVE / CATHEDRAL CAVE

This is the main cave and it can be reached by climbing the 272 steps (beware of the monkeys! – more info below). Its ceiling is vaulted and it’s over 90m tall. The entire cave is devoted to Lord Murugan. This one’s free to enter, but you can leave a donation at the entrance if you wish.

DARK CAVE

Halfway up the stairs, you’ll find the Dark Cave, also known as the wildest of the 4 caves. This one is full of limestone formations and cave animals (spoiler alert: the rarest spider in the world can be found here!). The Dark Cave can only be visited with a tour. There are two types of tours available – the Educational Tour (shorter, good for kids) and the Adventure Tour (3-4 hours, a bit more hardcore), both of them are very interesting. I’m mentioning the fee for each tour below. If you take a tour, expect to do some crawling, so I recommend you bring some fresh clothes to change afterwards. 

NOTE: Sadly, the Dark Cave has been closed since January 2019 until further notice. I recommend checking out their official Facebook page for further info, maybe they’ll open the tours again soon! 

CAVE VILLA

The Cave Villa is probably the easiest cave to access, as it’s located right at the foot of the hill. No stairs needed here! To access it, you’ll need to pay a cost of 15 RM (3.60 US$) and cross a crooked bridge. There you’ll find not one, but two illuminated caves with statues and Hindu paintings.

RAMAYANA CAVE

The Ramayana Cave is located on the left side of the hill, near a tall, green statue depicting a monkey god (Hanuman). This cave is filled with statues and paintings showcasing different scenes from the Ramayana, as well as a light show. The entrance fee for this one is 5 RM (1.20 US$).

TIP: Make sure you don’t miss the five-legged bull statue in the courtyard right outside the caves, it’s a sight to see!

Batu Caves price and tickets

Melissa smiling with the golden statue and the rainbow stairs at the Batu Caves behind her

Below you’ll find all the information you need about the entry cost for tourists for each of the temples (spoiler alert: the main temple is free to enter!):

Main Batu Caves Temple (Temple Cave / Cathedral Cave): Free, but you can leave a donation in one of the boxes at the entrance if you want to.
Cave Villa: 15 RM / 3.60 US$
Ramayana Cave: 5 RM / 1.20 US$
Dark Cave – Educational Tour (currently closed): 35 RM / 8.50 US$
Dark Cave – Adventure Tour (currently closed): 80 RM / 19.50 US$

RELATED READ: Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

Best Batu Caves tours

The insides of the Temple Cave at the Batu Caves in KL.

In case you don’t want to spend precious vacation time organising your trip to the Batu Caves, I recommend booking an organised tour. These are usually organised by knowledgeable local guides who can also provide you with some interesting information about the site’s history, along with some fun facts along the way. There are also combined tours available, which I think are VERY good if you want to save some time.

Here are my hand-picked Batu Cave tour recommendations below:

Batu Caves dress code

Melissa waving her dress at the Batu Caves rainbow steps
Melissa smiles, standing beside the rainbow building of the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur.

Batu Caves are a place of worship, so please remember to dress respectfully on your visit. The dress code is quite relaxed up until the main entrance to the temple. Here they request women to cover their chest, shoulders and knees and if men are wearing a shirt, for it to be buttoned up.

Don’t worry too much if you don’t have anything that meets the criteria of the dress code. You can cover up with a sarong or scarf before you enter. If you don’t have something that you can use, there are people at the entrance that rent covers for around 5 RM (1.20 US$).

Also, remember those 272 bright and colourful steps? Make sure you wear comfy shoes to help you manage them and remember to remove them when prompted to in certain parts inside the temple.

RELATED READ: Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

Monkey business

Two mischievous macaque monkeys laze on the colourful steps of the Batu Caves.

Be prepared to make some new friends on your adventures to the Batu Caves, as you’ll find the area surrounded by ‘mischievous’ macaque monkeys. I know what you’re thinking, aww cute, Monkeys!, but think less Curious George and more Donkey Kong on this one! The monkeys here are pretty fearless with humans, after all, you’ve come to visit them on THEIR turf. Keep your valuables out of sight as they’re known to grab and dash with your wallet, sunglasses, phone, keys… I think you get my gist. Just keep a good hold on the things you want to keep! And make sure you don’t feed the monkeys unless you want to pestered for your entire visit!

Rock climbing at Batu Caves

A man in a yellow shirt is rock climbing a steep wall.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll be happy to find out that the area around the caves and the limestone hills can be climbed. The area is called Gua Damai and it is said to be the best rock climbing experience in Southeast Asia!

There are more than 150 routes to choose from, rated from 5A to 8A+ and you can find something for any skill level. No need to be a pro, you can simply do some hiking or bouldering if you want to. I recommend this Guided Gua Damai Rock Climbing & Batu Caves Visit.

Packing list for Batu Caves, Malaysia

Don’t forget to bring:

BONUS #1: My best tips for visiting Batu Caves

tips for visiting batu caves in kuala lumpur 3
Melissa swishes her skirt at the entrance to the rainbow steps of the Batu Caves in Malaysia.

Of course, I just couldn’t let you leave without sharing some of the most precious tips I found out after going there myself. Sharing is caring!

RELATED READ: 10 Best Local Foods in Kuala Lumpur

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for Batu Caves

Picture of canon camera on a deck in nature.

The Batu Caves provide amazing photo opportunities. If you want to make the best of them, make sure to pack your best camera and lenses. Here is what we have in our gear:

This was my complete guide for visiting the Batu Caves temple complex!

Get ready to climb the colourful stairs, to see the giant statue of Lord Murugan, the unique Dark Caves and some unique light shows at the most famous Hindu temple complex outside of India. And don’t forget, the Batu Caves are a must for all tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur.

If you need more help in planning your trip and itinerary for Kuala Lumpur or Malaysia, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles and tips about this wonderful country!

xoxo,

Melissa

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12 Incredible Things to Do in KL (Kuala Lumpur): Tours, Restaurants & More

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and one of the most interesting destinations in South East Asia. If you’re planning a trip or a short layover there soon, you need to make a list of the best things to do in KL for your trip! This is exactly why I created this complete Kuala Lumpur travel guide which includes the best Kuala Lumpur attractions as well as the best hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, tours and more!

I made the mistake that so many do and only booked our trip to Kuala Lumpur as a stopover, leaving us with only a short three-day trip to explore. We quickly realised that there were A LOT of things to do in KL that we just didn’t have time to fit in. For our first trip to KL, we wanted to focus on seeing all the most iconic sights. Luckily, Malaysia is one of the main flight connection points between Europe and Asia, so we’ll surely be back for more!

Without further ado, scroll down to find my first-timers guide with 12 unmissable places to visit in Kuala Lumpur!

NOTE: You’ll see that I’ll use KL and KLCC frequently in this article. KL stands for Kuala Lumpur and KLCC is Kuala Lumpur City Centre. It’s the way both locals and internationals abbreviate these words.

But first – why visit Kuala Lumpur?

Ah, for SO many reasons! Kuala Lumpur is a very interesting place full of incredible attractions. High towers with unique observation decks and revolving restaurants, lots of animal parks where you can see anything from birds to bigger wildlife and butterflies, mosques, temples, cultural neighbourhoods. And of course, delicious local food and endless shopping opportunities. Kuala Lumpur is a destination that definitely deserves more than 3 days if you want to explore all the main attractions.

Map of Malaysia with Kuala Lumpur Signalled

What to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

My list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur is long and wide, but below you’ll find 12 attractions that I consider to be essential if you’re visiting for the first time. I also prepared a bonus list for you with extra sights to see in case you’re not on your first visit and want something new. You can find it below.

1 – Petronas Towers

Melissa stands in front of the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
Melissa looks up at the Petronas Twin Towers from the KLCC park.

Of course, I’m starting this list with THE most iconic landmark in the city! The world-famous Petronas Towers are the first thing that pops into mind when we hear the words Kuala Lumpur – and with good reason! The Kuala Lumpur Petronas Twin Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world and they were considered to be, until 2004, the tallest towers ever. Needless to say they’re the symbol of the capital and one of the fun things to do in KL!

The towers are 88 floors high and 452 meters tall and they have a bridge connecting them between the 41st and 42nd floors.

What’s there to do here? First, you can admire the towers from KLCC Park, especially in the evening when the buildings are beautifully lit up. You can also go up the towers and visit the Sky Bridge (that connects the two buildings) and the Observation Deck (at the 88th floor) as well.

TIP: This is THE most famous attraction in the city so tickets sell out fast. This, combined with the fact that there’s a strict 1.000 person limit per day brings me to my recommendation: make sure you buy your tickets IN ADVANCE. And I mean at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially if you want to visit the towers on a certain date and time.

PRICE: 80 MYR/person for tourists (19 US$). You can buy your tickets online in advance here on the official website. Or you can test your luck and go to the ticket counter early in the morning (8:30 AM) but I really wouldn’t advise that! You can also buy the skip-the-line ticket with a one-way transfer for 27.55 US$. By the way, all tickets include access to the Sky Bridge and Observation Deck as well.

2 – KLCC Park

KLCC Park with the Petronas Towers in the background

Now that I told you about the Petronas Twin Towers, I have to mention KLCC Park right away. This green landscaped park is located right behind the towers and it’s a great place to relax, unwind and get a great view of the towers from afar. Don’t get me wrong, the park is quite large – it has over 20 hectares, so you’ll have plenty of space to find a good spot for you.

PRICE: Free

3 – The Batu Caves

The colourful rainbow stairs of the Batu Caves.
Melissa swishes her skirt at the entrance to the rainbow steps of the Batu Caves in Malaysia.

RELATED READ: If you want to read more info about this awesome place, I recommend checking out my dedicated article where I’m telling you about my experience and lots of useful info: Kuala Lumpur: A Complete Guide to the Batu Caves.

Okay, I admit it: I cheated a bit by inserting this attraction here, as it’s not exactly inside the city. But it’s still one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur – and a famous one, too.

The Batu Caves are actually a Hindu Temple built inside a cave and it is said to be around 400 years old. You should definitely pay a visit to this place – and while you’re here, I recommend checking out the Dark Cave as well.

PRICE: Free. The Dark Cave is 35 MYR/person (8.50 US$). I recommend taking a group tour or a private tour if you want to visit this place and also benefit from hotel pick-up and lots of fun info from a local guide.

4 – Menara KL Tower / KL Tower Sky Box

Melissa sits in the glass Sky Box KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur

RELATED READ: Sky Box KL Tower Guide – Is It Really Worth It?

Did you expect to find an even taller tower than the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur? Heh, enter Menara KL Tower, also known as the place with the most beautiful views of the city! The viewing deck of Menara is around 100m taller than the Petronas – and you can actually see the famous twin towers from here. And yes, this tower has its cool viewpoint too (the Sky Box) and it’s completely made of glass. Just think of THAT view and the endless photo opportunities!

You have 3 different spots to visit here, each with its own price: the Observation Deck (indoor), the SkyDeck (outdoor) and the SkyBox (the glass box I was telling you about above). You can also buy combo tickets for these in case you can’t choose.

TIP #1: The best time to visit is in the morning or during the evening, preferably at sunset if you want to get the most beautiful view of the city.

TIP #2: If you’re looking for a unique experience with fewer tourists, I recommend going to Atmosphere 360, a revolving restaurant that offers an equally awesome view as any viewing platform here. You can grab an afternoon tea for 75 MYR/person (18 US$) or a lunch set meal for 95 MYR (23 US$) and just enjoy the vibe.

PRICE: The Observation Deck is 49 MYR (12 US$) and the combo with all 3 is 99 MYR (24 US$) per person. I found way cheaper tickets on Klook right here – 9.65 US$ for the Observation and 21.25 US$ for the combo ticket. 100% recommended!

5 – Thean Hou Temple

Melissa swishes her skirt at the Thean Hou Temple in KL.
Melissa standing in the Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Thean Hou Temple is also known as the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven and it’s famous for being one of the oldest Chinese temples not only in Malaysia, but in this entire part of the world as well! It’s massive and its six tier architecture is simply stunning: a red roof, hundreds of hanging Chinese lanterns and intricate carvings painted in endless colours. If you only visit one temple in KL, Thean Hou should be it; it is surely high on my list of beautiful tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur for some incredible photos!

PRICE: Free

RELATED READ: Want to check out the best photo ops around the city? I recommend reading my dedicated post: Top 10 Instagrammable Places in KL, Malaysia

6 – Merdeka Square and Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Sultan Abdul Samad building in Kuala Lumpur
Inside the Sultan Abdul Samad building.

Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka) is one of the most important spots in the city, as this is where Malaysia declared its independence! Along with the Petronas, this should be on top of your cultural Kuala Lumpur itinerary. Although the square itself is pretty nice, with green lawns and a massive flagpole, the most unmissable spot here is definitely Sultan Abdul Samad Building. This Moorish and Gothic-style building made entirely of bricks was built in 1897 and it has a superb, intricate design. Seriously, it’s something to witness!

If you want to find out more about the city’s colonial past and these historical buildings, I recommend taking a guided tour. I recommend this half-day tour that will take you to Merdeka Square, Petronas, Istana Negara and more.

7 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Chinatown

Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur.
Sri Mahamariamman temple in Kuala Lumpur Chinatown

Sri Mahamariamman Temple (well that’s a fun name to pronounce!), dating from the 19th century, is the oldest Hindu temple around and it’s the best place to visit in KL if you want to learn more about the numerous religions and cultures that this place encompasses. The Hindu architecture is simply stunning – vibrant colours on the façade, sculptures and well-known legends.

This temple (along with the Toaist Sin Sze Si Ya temple) is located in the Chinatown neighborhood, a unique place to visit while you’re in Kuala Lumpur. Chinatown revolves around Petaling Street – it’s the place where you’ll find endless shops with extremely cheap prices and lots of restaurants with traditional dumplings, noodles and more. Make sure you pay Chinatown a visit, day or night!

8 – KL Forest Eco Park

Eco Forest Park and the KL Tower in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Melissa crossing a canopy bridge in the Eco Forest Park in Kuala Lumpur.

Hanging bridges, lots of nature and endless rows of trees – the KL Forest Eco Park is a real jungle in the middle of the city! The canopy walk is a well-known activity in the park and seeing a monkey or two is to be expected. Sounds fun, right?

The canopy walk (200m long) is the most popular route, made of hanging bridges among lush trees. It takes around 30 to 40 minutes to complete, photos included. It’s not hard at all, trust me, even kids can do this!

PRICE: Free

TIP: The Eco Park is located very close to the Menara KL Tower, so you can visit both in one day.

9 – Jamek Mosque and Wilayah Mosque

Wilayah Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Melissa walks through the Wiliyah Mosque in KL.

Jamek Mosque is one of the most important mosques in all of Malaysia and it’s around 100 years old. It has beautiful architecture and it’s located at the intersection of two rivers – Klang and Gombak. The setting is simply amazing and you can also visit the inside of the mosque!

Wilayah Mosque is very pretty mosque in KL hosted in one of the most striking buildings in the city of Kuala Lumpur and it’s open for anyone to visit. There are volunteers offering free guided tours of the mosque at the entrance. They’re very eager to share the interesting facts they know with tourists, so I definitely recommend this experience!

10 – Try some durian and the local dishes

Durian fruit hanging in an open-air market stall.

Have you heard of durian before? I’m pretty sure you have! If not, let me tell you a few words about this weird and wonderful fruit. Durian is a pretty common fruit in Southeast Asia. It’s big, spiky and interesting-looking but, most of all, it’s know for being extremely smelly. Yep, you read that right! Durian is only for the brave! Some say it has a strong smelly socks aroma, but if you can ignore the initial wiff, you’ll discover a world of flavour. Tasting durian should be in every Kuala Lumpur guide. Or you can at least TRY to taste it! You can do it in one of the local markets or during a food tour such as this chef-designed small group food tour.

Talking about food tours… I hope you know that tasting as much street food as possible is a MUST while you’re in KL, right? One of the best places to go to enjoy some amazing street food dishes is definitely Jalan Alor Food Street, also known as the best open-air night market, but I’ll tell you about some other cool places in the “Where to eat” section below!

11 – Sip a drink on a rooftop bar

Rooftop Bar in Kuala Lumpur

Just like in Bangkok, the Kuala Lumpur nightlife is pretty vibrant and one of the most popular activities here is going to a sky-high rooftop bar. There are so many good ones in KL that you simply have to try at least one! Here are my best recommendations:

TIP: Tight budget? Two words: happy hour! Most bars have them in their schedule, so remember to check ahead and you shouldn’t miss them.

12 – Do some shopping

Shopping in Kuala Lumpur

Wondering where to shop in KL for the best experience? Oh, there are so many places worth noting! Here are some of the best shopping places in Kuala Lumpur below:

PETALING STREET – The well-known street in Chinatown I mentioned before. There are countless stalls here with VERY cheap items and souvenirs, anything from electronics to clothes and accessories. There’s also tons of street food options to try.

SURIA KLCC – Located in the city center, this huge six-story shopping complex has anything from shops, supermarkets, a cinema and a food court with Malaysian and International dishes as well.

PAVILLION – A more modern approach to shopping, this mall is located in Bukit Bintang area and it hosts more than 700 shops. Probably the coolest mall in town!

CENTRAL MARKET – Also called Pasar Seni, this place is divided in different sections such as Malay, Indian and Chinese, each of them with numerous stalls where you can find different souvenirs. There’s also a food court at the upper floor of the Central Market with local dishes as well. And if you’re lucky enough, you’ll also get to witness a street performance!

KAMPUNG BARU SUNDAY MARKET – A local night market where you can find all kinds of items, from clothes to jewellery. It’s open on Saturday night until Sunday morning so yes, the name is a bit… misleading.

BUKIT BINTANG – For all pockets. You’ll find everything here from luxury shops (at Starhill Gallery especially) to local brands, from clothes to electronics.

LITTLE INDIA – Just like Chinatown, Little India is the perfect place for affordable souvenirs and TONS of Indian spices. The only downside is that the neighbourhood is located at the outskirts of the city.

BONUS: Extra places to visit in KL

Skyline of Kuala Lumpur, Things to do in KL.

If you still have some time to spend here and you’re out of KL attractions, don’t worry, I got you! Here’s an extra list of exciting things and places to add to your itinerary:

RELATED READ: Complete Guide: Visiting Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Best Kuala Lumpur city tour options by type of traveller

Birds-eye view of the city centre of KL.

I know, I know, my list of places to go in KL can be a bit overwhelming, to say the least! If you need a little bit of help organising your itinerary, my recommendation is to book some organised tours of the city. This way, you can tour Kuala Lumpur and see its main highlights without the timing and transportation stress!

Here are some of my best recommendations for tours of Kuala Lumpur by type of traveller:

Best day trips from Kuala Lumpur

Below you’ll find some amazing options for a cool day trip from KL if you’re interested in exploring the most interesting places near the city!

Petronas towers in a foggy day in Kuala Lumpur

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Wondering where to stay in KL? Luckily for us travellers, Kuala Lumpur’s hotel scene is full of TONS of amazing places to stay for the best experience! A rooftop pool, city views, clean rooms but also nice hostels and affordable apartments – you can find all these in KL and more!

Melissa sits in her hotel bed, looking out the window at the Petronas Towers in KL.
Infinity pool at a hotel in the area of Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur.

For more details and excellent hotel recommendations, check out my dedicated article here: Complete Guide: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur.

The best areas I can recommend are KLCC, Bukit Bintang and Chinatown, especially if you want to be close to all the most important landmarks such as the Petronas Towers.

And here’s a short roundup below where you can find the top hotels in Kuala Lumpur I’m recommending, all sorted by budget:

COMPLETE SPLURGE: The RuMa Hotel and Residences

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Villa Samadhi Kuala Lumpur

MID-RANGE: Meliá Kuala Lumpur

BUDGET HOTEL: Komune Living

HOSTEL: The Bed KLCC

APARTMENT: Ascott Kuala Lumpur

Where to eat in KL and what dishes to try

Everyone knows that you can’t visit any place in Asia without trying the local food – Malaysia included! And trust me, the local dishes in Kuala Lumpur are pretty much unforgettable. Here are some unmissable dishes to try as well as some excellent foodie spots out there:

NASI KANDAR

Mixed rice – one of the most common foods in Malaysia. You basically receive a portion of plain rice and you can mix and match your favourite ‘toppings’ (seafood, meat, veggies etc.). I recommend trying it at the street stalls or at Nasi Kandar Bestari.

Nasi Kandar serves on a banana leaf.

NASI LEMAK

The national dish of Malaysia, usually served for breakfast. It’s coconut rice mixed with fried chicken, chili paste, fried eggs and anchovies – and it’s delicious! I know, they take breakfast seriously for sure. I, again, recommend the street stalls or Village Park Restaurant.

nasi lemak in kuala lumpur

ROTI CANAI

Indian-style flatbread, also known as a “flying bead”. It goes wonderfully with stews and spicy curries and you can find it pretty much everywhere you look. Try roti canai banjir if you want to taste the bread with just curry sauce.

roti canai in kuala lumpur

HIGH TEA

High tea is a world-famous British tradition. And because Malaysia was colonised by the British, this tradition is well-known around these lands as well – and there are plenty of nice places to sip a good tea in Kuala Lumpur and to enjoy some quality time. I recommend The Orchid Conservatory at Majestic Hotel, Atmosphere 360 or Newens Tea House for this.

high tea in Kuala Lumpur

FINE DINING

Cantaloupe is located at the 23rd floor of the Troika building and they have an amazing 7-course tasting menu. Talkin’ about sky dining!

fine dining in kuala lumpur

VISIT THE CUTE CAFES

You know how much I love brunches and cafes – and Kuala Lumpur is the perfect place to stop by some cute cafes to start your day right. Merchant’s Lane is a great place in Chinatown that serves an Asian fusion menu and The Husky Cafe Kuala Lumpur (Huskiss) does not disappoint: it’s a cafe with perfect coffee and DOGS!

best cafes in kuala lumpur

RELATED READ: By the way, if you’re interested in the subject, I recommend reading my dedicated post Ultimate Foodie Guide: Where to Eat in KL, Malaysia + Foods to Try to find out more about the best local dishes you need to try while in the city.

WHERE CAN I EAT THE BEST STREET FOOD IN KL?

street food sizzling in a wok.
local food dish at kuala lumpur street food market

JALAN ALOR STREET FOOD MARKET – This is literally foodie heaven and one of the most famous places in KL for tasting authentic dishes. You can find tons of cheap (and delicious) Malaysian food stalls here serving anything from barbecue meat to soups and desserts and the best part is that it’s open 24/7. It’s in the Golden Triangle area and it’s the REAL deal.

TAMAN CONNAUGHT MARKET – Another notable place; the good thing is that it’s not as touristy as the first one, so you’ll find more locals here. There are also stalls selling clothes, electronics and more.

If you want to taste ALLLL the best food that Kuala Lumpur has to offer, I recommend joining a food tour. A local guide will take you to all the best food places in KL and will show you exactly what to try and how. I recommend this Kuala Lumpur Street Food Tour with 10 tastings or this Local Street Food Night Tour.

Or, even better, you can join a cooking class. It’s a wonderful opportunity to not only learn about the local dishes, but also find out how to properly cook them using authentic ingredients and techniques. For this, I recommend this New Malaysian Kitchen Cooking Class and Garden Tour.

RELATED READ: If you’re a brunch fanatic (like me!), check out 13 Best Spots for Breakfast and Brunch in KL, Malaysia

Getting around Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The good news is that the local transportation system in KL is very well-connected and pocket-friendly too. The downside is that you’ll have so many options, it can be a bit hard to choose. I don’t recommend you simply walk around the streets, as KL is pretty massive and the landmarks are not that close to each other (unless we’re talking about Petronas Towers and KLCC Park).

Rapid KL Train in Malaysia

But I’ll elucidate all the transportation mysteries for you below:

MRT and LRT

These are the local trains and they connect the centre to numerous other neighbourhoods. One ride is 1.20 MYR (0.30 US$) and you can buy your ticket from the vending machines at the stations.

KL MONORAIL

Connects KL Sentral (main train station) to KLCC. One ride is 1.30 MYR (0.30 US$ as well) and it works with tokens that can be bought at the station and validated before you enter the train.

RAPIDKL BUS

Local buses that work with a digital TnGo Card. You charge it with at least 3 MYR (0.25 to 1.20 US$) and you can use it on all lines. Fees for one ride range from 1 to 5 MYR depending on where you’re going.

GO KL CITY BUS

Free local bus that takes you to the most frequented train stations, areas and attractions. It has a pretty lilac colour and you can board it for free.

TAXI

They’re a fast and convenient way of navigating the city, although I’d recommend avoiding them. If you HAVE to use them, make sure the driver uses the meter. If he refuses, just find another one. Alternatively, there’s also Grab in KL (Asian version of Uber). Also, it is said that red taxis are better than blue taxis.

TIP: If you plan on using the public transportation system a lot while you’re in KL (LRT, MRT and KL Monorail, I recommend a MyCity Pass, which is a well-known transportation card. It offers unlimited rides on all three of them for 1 and 3 days and the prices range from 20 MYR to 35 MYR. You can buy it at all stations and I think it’s a great deal.

This was my complete guide to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! I hope you found this article useful, as I did my best to include EVERYTHING you might need here, from the best things to do to the best tours, hotels, restaurants, dishes, transportation methods and everything else in-between!

When it comes to it, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is an incredible destination and people from all around the world flock here to discover its secrets and see its attractions. If you’re one of them, I hope this article was useful in planning your itinerary!

In case you want to read more about Malaysia, I recommend clicking here to find out everything about my adventures in this amazing country.

xoxo,

Melissa

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