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
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!
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):
The Face Suites – stunning hotel with insane pool views across KL
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
BONUS: More 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:
Merchant’s Lane Cafe – if you’re looking for an Instagrammable cafe in Kuala Lumpur, this one’s for you! Gorgeous decor, lots of plants and delicious coffee – what more can you wish for? If you’re interested to find more places like this, I recommend my dedicated article: Kuala Lumpur: Best Brunch and Coffee Spots
Heli Lounge Bar – one of the best rooftop bars in Kuala Lumpur where you can enjoy a drink directly on the helipad. Make sure to make a reservation in advance, though, as this spot is pretty well-known.
Saloma Link Bridge – this one’s brand new and still relatively unknown! This link bridge full of colourful LED lights that lit up at night was opened in February 2020 and it has become an iconic spot if you want to take a picture with the Petronas Twin Towers in the background.
National Science Center – just picture some tall, rainbow windows all-around a corridor and the sun shining through them. Trust me, it looks stunning and this spot is still pretty unknown. The only downside is that you’ll have to ‘illegally’ take the emergency exit on the first floor, so it will require a bit of adventurous sneaking!
Elmina Valley Central Park – this attraction is very new as well, opened at the beginning of 2020 in Shah Alam. Although not in the city centre, this cute recreational park has a stunning rainbow walkway perfect for some pictures!
The LINC KL – if you fancy a modern shopping mall as your backdrop for cool photos.
Pink Mosque – officially called Putra Mosque, this gorgeous pink mosque is located in Putrajaya, so it’s not technically in Kuala Lumpur. Still, it’s well worth going there for some incredible pictures!
Astaka Morocco – and if you decide to travel to Putrajaya for the Putra Mosque I’ve been talking about above, make sure you don’t miss Astaka Morocco as well – the best spot in Malaysia to take a photo in front of gorgeous Moroccan architecture!
Bank Negara Malaysia Museum & Art Gallery – regardless if you’re interested in Malaysia’s economy or not, a visit to their Central Bank is a must, at least for the gorgeous spiral staircase that allows for endless photo opportunities.
NU Sentral Station – this one’s Malaysia’s largest railway station and its entrance is impressive enough for some unique Instagram feed photos. Plus, you can also shop at NU Sentral, which I think is pretty nice as well.
BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for KL
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
Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?
Check out all my Kuala Lumpur Travel Guides here.
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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:
KLCC Area – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for first timers
Bukit Bintang – The best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur for shopping
Chinatown – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget
KL Sentral – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for luxury
Chow Kit – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for a local vibe
For a better idea of the city, check out the map below:
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!
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!
Other accommodations in KLCC that I would recommend:
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!
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!
Other accommodations in Bukit Bintang that I would recommend:
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!
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!
Other accommodations in Chinatown that I would recommend:
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!
Other accommodations in KL Sentral that I would recommend:
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.
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!
Other accommodations in Chow Kit that I would recommend:
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
Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Kuala Lumpur so you don’t miss a thing!
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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
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?
You have 3 different spots (4 with the restaurant) to visit at the KL Tower, each with its own price:
the Observation Deck (indoor) – 276 meters, you can admire the view through binoculars and there’s also an audio guide and headsets. There’s also a souvenir shop here;
the SkyDeck (outdoor) – 300 meters, you can see as far as the Genting Highlands if you visit on a clear day;
the SkyBox (the glass box I was telling you about above) – this one extends out from the Sky Deck;
Atmosphere 360 Revolving Restaurant – one floor above the Observation Deck. Elegant, with floor-to-ceiling windows, but pricey. You can see the Petronas Twin Towers from up here! You can sometimes find discounted deals for meals on Klook here.
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?
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.
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
Adult: RM49 / 11.90 US$
Child: RM29 / 7 US$
Sky Deck (includes Observation Deck + Sky Box)
Adult: RM99 / 24 US$
Child: RM52 / 12.50 US$
Observation Deck + Blue Coral Aquarium
Adult: RM52 / 12.50 US$
Child: RM31 / 7.50 US$
Observation Deck + Mini Zoo
Adult: RM66 / 16 US$
Child: RM47 / 11.30 US$
Observation Deck + Upside Down House
Adult: RM55 / 13.30 US$
Child: RM36 / 8.70 US$
Observation Deck + XD Theatre
Adult: RM55 / 13.30 US$
Child: RM36 / 8.70 US$
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.
Here are the best tours I can recommend:
Petronas Towers Observation Deck and KL Tower Tickets – excellent combo choice for those short on time, as you’ll get to skip-the-line for admission to the Observation Deck + Sky Bridge at Petronas plus KL Tower Observation Deck;
Kuala Lumpur: Private Half-Day City Tour – admission to KL Tower is not included, but I think this tour is a great sightseeing option for those that want a customised tour and to see as much as possible in a short amount of time. If you want an option with the admission included, I recommend this one.
KL Tower Revolving Restaurant and Central Market Night Tour – enjoy a buffet dinner at the revolving restaurant, then head over to the market with a knowledgeable guide that will tell you some interesting facts. Hotel pick-up and drop-off included!
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.
Check out the exact location of the KL tower in the map below:
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 takingthe 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.
So, if you do decide to go – these 4 helpful tips and insights are super important for you! Commit them to memory!
Try and get your deli ticket for Sky Box A as Sky Box B does not have views of the Petronas Towers.
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.
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.
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! 😉
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.
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:
Jelutong Tree – This 95-year old, giant of a tree is one of the highlights of the KL Tower. Mainly because of how the builders spent RM430,000 (103.777 US$) just to make sure that the tree was kept safe while building the KL tower, so it can still be enjoyed by future generations. Nawwww, if that isn’t a feel-good fact, then what is!
Upside Down House – Just beside the KL Tower is the unmistakable Upside Down House, where not only the house itself is upside down but also all of its furniture. There’s even a Morris 1974 hanging at the entrance. This spot is more popular with kids, but it also works for a cool photo opportunity!
KL Forest Eco Park – A forest in the heart of the city. Take the canopy trail across a set of jungle bridges with skyscrapers soaring above the trees. Beware the pesky monkeys though – during our visit, Guga and I had to run for it as they made a grab for the camera!
Atmosphere 360 – Back up at the top of the KL Tower there is a revolving restaurant. If you fancy some fine dining at the KL Tower with a view, this is a good option. Obviously, prices are sky-high to match the location.
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!
KL Tower height: The official height of the KL Tower is 421 meters;
The KL Tower is located in Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, one of the oldest in all of Malaysia. You can take a walk around there for a dose of nature in the middle of the city and see how the construction of the tower didn’t “spoil” the natural surroundings;
The design of the KL Tower represents humanity’s search for perfection in life. You can see a mix of Arabic and Islamic elements and details in its construction such as patterns and ceramic tiles;
The tower actually has two restaurants! There’s also a McDonalds inside the KL Tower, making it the highest McDonalds in the world. Now that’s a FUN fact!
You can see the smallest horse species in the world at the Mini Zoo on the ground floor of KL Tower;
You can have a heightened shopping experience at the KL Tower (get it? heightened?), as there’s a souvenir shop up top on the observation deck.
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
Want to know more about travelling to Kuala Lumpur?
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Kuala Lumpur so you don’t miss a thing!
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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?
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
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:
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
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.
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$).
TIP: Make sure you don’t miss the five-legged bull statue in the courtyard right outside the caves, it’s a sight to see!
Batu Caves price and tickets
Below you’ll find all the information you need about the entry cost for tourists for each of the temples (spoiler alert: the main temple is free to enter!):
Main Batu Caves Temple (Temple Cave / Cathedral Cave): Free, but you can leave a donation in one of the boxes at the entrance if you want to. Cave Villa: 15 RM / 3.60 US$ 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$
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 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.
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
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:
mosquito repellant – always be prepared!
a sarong or a scarf – to cover your chest and shoulders in the temple.
a bottle of water – must keep hydrated!
some toilet paper – always good to have on hand as public toilets in KL are often without.
150 RM in cash – if you want to enter the other four caves which have entrance fees.
BONUS #1: My best tips for visiting Batu Caves
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!
Beware of the monkeys. As I mentioned above, make sure you keep your valuables and any food you may carry out of sight. They can be quite annoying, but they provide awesome photo opportunities;
Don’t forget to bring a couple of water bottles with you, so you won’t get dehydrated while climbing the stairs and walking around the temples. It can get hot!
Make sure you bring a change of fresh clothes with you, especially if you want to visit the Dark Caves as well. And don’t forget about the dress code for the Hindu temples!
If you get hungry, you can get some Indian food at the site from the food stalls at the entrance. They offer pretty okay food for a (still) affordable price – around 30 RM for a meal (4.90 US$);
Don’t forget to bring cash for the entrance fees to the various temples!
The area is not handicap-friendly because of the stairs, especially if you want to visit the two main temples (and I’m assuming you want to);
RELATED READ: 10 Best Local Foods in Kuala Lumpur
BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for Batu Caves
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.
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
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.
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
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$). I recommend taking a group tour or a private tour if you want to visit this place and also benefit from hotel pick-up and lots of fun info from a local guide.
Did you expect to find an even taller tower than the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur? Heh, enter Menara KL Tower, also known as the place with the most beautiful views of the city! The viewing deck of Menara is around 100m taller than the Petronas – and you can actually see the famous twin towers from here. And yes, this tower has its cool viewpoint too (the Sky Box) and it’s completely made of glass. Just think of THAT view and the endless photo opportunities!
You have 3 different spots to visit here, each with its own price: the Observation Deck (indoor), the SkyDeck (outdoor) and the SkyBox (the glass box I was telling you about above). You can also buy combo tickets for these in case you can’t choose.
TIP #1: The best time to visit is in the morning or during the evening, preferably at sunset if you want to get the most beautiful view of the city.
TIP #2: If you’re looking for a unique experience with fewer tourists, I recommend going to Atmosphere 360, a revolving restaurant that offers an equally awesome view as any viewing platform here. You can grab an afternoon tea for 75 MYR/person (18 US$) 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!
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!
6 – Merdeka Square and 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 (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
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
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
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
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:
Heli Lounge Bar – 360° view and a cool location on a helipad. Make sure you reserve a spot beforehand, otherwise you’ll have to sip your drink while standing – or go early, at 5 or 6 PM. More information here.
Sky Bar at Traders Hotel – cute and cool, located at the 33rd floor of a hotel! I recommend going on Wednesdays for Ladies Night so you can enjoy free cocktails from 6 – 11 PM. Plus, they have new DJs daily so you can enjoy some good music while you’re there. More information here.
Marini’s on 75 – This is the rooftop bar to go to for close up views of the Petronas Towers. They also have an Italian restaurant on-site and a whiskey lounge. More information here.
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
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
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:
KL Bird Park – 21 acres and more than 200 species of birds! There are 4 different areas that you can explore and it’s a great place to unwind and see the local birds. Entrance fee to the bird park is 63 MYR / 15 US$ per adult on the official website.
Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park – with over 120 species, this place is perfect for some relaxation while admiring the colourful butterflies! Entrance fee is 25 MYR (6 US$) and you can buy it at the entrance. If you want to visit both the bird park and the butterfly park with a combo guided tour, I found this one.
Little India neighbourhood – for those of you that want to learn more about the Indian culture or just to taste an amazing tikka masala!
Perdana Botanical Gardens – formerly known as the Lake Gardens, this place hosts the largest collection of flowers in KL for sure. And the Orchid Garden is surely the most beautiful site there. Entrance fee is 6 MYR / 1.50 US$.
Aquaria KLCC – not just an aquarium, but an entire underwater world with more than 5.000 aquatic specimens! They call themselves an “oceanarium” and I think it’s pretty cool. Entrance fee to Aquaria KLCC is 71 MYR (17 US$) on the official website but I found cheaper prices on Klook here – 54 MYR (13 US$) per person!
Negara National Zoo of Malaysia – with almost 500 species of animals, this is the place to go, especially with the little ones! Entrance fee is 88 MYR (21.20 US$) on the official website but I found cheaper tickets on Klook here for 73 MYR (17.60 US$) that include access to the Panda Center as well.
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park – both a theme park and a water park with lots of fun activities for the entire family. Both relaxation and adventure await here! Entrance fee is 202 MYR (48.60 US$) for one adult on the official website, but I found way cheaper tickets on Klook here for 172 MYR (41.40 US$).
National Museum – the National Museum is a traditional house where you can learn about the history and culture of Malaysia. Entrance fee is 5 MYR / 1.20 US$.
National Mosque – visit the National Mosque if you want to be in awe of a superb Islamic building!
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station – once the main train station (now dethroned by KL Sentral), this building is super pretty and worthy of at least a quick look.
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre – an underrated pewter museum where you can learn about the history and the way the Royal Selangor products were made. Free entrance and free guided tours available! More information here.
Istana Negara – the former palace where Malaysian kings lived; nowadays it’s the best place to learn about royal life in KL. Entrance fee is 10 MYR (2.40 US$).
Dine in the Dark experience – Dining in the Dark is exactly what you expect it to be – a total sense experience during which you’ll eat in complete darkness. Sounds pretty cool to me!
Best Kuala Lumpur city tour options by type of traveller
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:
Hop On Hop Off Kuala Lumpur sightseeing bus – a great way to navigate the city, stop close to the most important attractions for you and then hop back on the bus! Available for 24 or 48 hours;
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!
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:
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 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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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).
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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