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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Kuala Lumpur

23 BEST Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur (2024)

Kuala Lumpur is the sprawling and dynamic capital of Malaysia. A modern city that is home to various cultural historic highlights, Kuala Lumpur is especially known for its excellent shopping, fantastic food scene, iconic buildings, and fun things to do. You’ll find awesome natural attractions nearby too.

Kuala Lumpur is a large city, discovering places of interest after the well-known tourist highlights can be tricky. The city boasts many hidden gems.

We’ve compiled this extensive list of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur to help you make the most all of your time in the city and discover secret treasures as well as the most famous attractions. There is certainly no need to have any dull moments in the Malaysian capital.

With places to suit all kinds of traveller and all budgets, these best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur are sure to excite you.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur:

These are the best places to visit in kuala lumpur, faq on the best places to visit in kuala lumpur, make many magical memories in kuala lumpur.

Bukit Bintang

A great place for those who love fancy malls and endless days of shopping, Bukit Bintang also has plenty of bars, street food, restaurants, and entertainment options to suit diverse tastes.

• Snap some pictures of the quaint St. Anthony’s Church.
• Visit Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve to escape the concrete jungle and enjoy some time in nature.
• Put your dancing shoes and smart clothes on and head to Changkat Bukit Bintang for a night of drinking, dancing, and fun.

And, with all the useful advice completed, here are the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur …

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most visited cities in the world and for this reason, it can be overwhelming when trying to decide where to stay. Be sure to check out where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for a full low-down on the best areas of this vibrant metropolis and get ready to dive into the adventure awaiting you below!

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#1 – Petronas Twin Towers – One of the most amazing places in Kuala Lumpur!

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• World’s tallest twin towers
• Amazing shopping centre
• Fabulous views
• Interesting displays

Why it’s awesome: The gleaming Petronas Twin Towers are a major landmark on the city skyline. Previously the tallest buildings in the world, they remain the tallest twin towers across the globe. Open since 1999. The towers were built on the site of the city’s racetrack. The steel and glass exteriors shimmer in the sunlight and the designs reflect those found in Islamic art. The 88-floor towers are connected by a skybridge walkway. Various companies have offices within the towers, with Tower One home only to Petronas, the large oil company. There’s a large shopping centre, Suria KLCC, at the bottom, and Petronas Philharmonic Hall is also within the buildings. Outside, KLCC Park is an attractive open space that offers various activities.

What to do there: Take a walk through KLCC Park and gaze up at the splendid towers that dominate the surroundings. You can follow the walking trails, relax next to the large pond, and get some exercise along the jogging tracks. Take kids to the play area to let off steam. Browse the luxury shops within Suria KLCC and perhaps treat yourself to some high-end goods. You can also visit the underwater aquarium, art gallery, and various places to eat and drink. Book tickets to watch the Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra perform in the spectacular Petronas Philharmonic Hall.

Snap a picture of the suspended racing cars in the main lobby and take a trip up the towers for incredible views. Do note that you should buy your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot. Ride the fast elevators up to the skybridge (on the 41 st floor) and see the city spread out below you. Continue to the 86 th floor for more incredible vistas and to see the displays relating to the tower’s construction, use, design, and significance. There are some great Airbnb’s located nearby with views of the towers too!

#2 – Batu Caves – One of the more unique places to visit in Kuala Lumpur!

• Hindu spiritual site
• Lots of monkeys
• Various caves to explore
• Religious artwork

Why it’s awesome: The Batu Caves are easy to reach from the city centre, located in nearby Selangor. The limestone hill has several interesting caves and the complex is one of the most-visited and scared Tamil shrines outside of India. Dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, a gigantic golden likeness of the god stands at the bottom of the biggest cave. Believed to have been formed some 400 million years ago, the caves have been used as shelters and as places of worship over the years. The caves have been especially sacred to local Hindus since the late 1800s. Each cave houses something different, with temple caves and one dedicated to nature. Macaque monkeys live around the hill.

What to do there: Admire the impressive limestone hills and buy a bag of food to feed the marauding macaques that scamper around the site. Do secure loose items and keep any other food and drink hidden to prevent the monkeys from snatching your items and running away with them. Be in awe of the gigantic statue of Lord Murugan; at almost 43 metres (140 feet) tall, it’s the biggest statue of this deity in the world.

Climb the 272 steps to visit the ornate Temple Cave and see an abundance of religious statues and artworks spread throughout the interesting natural rock formations. Watch as people come here to pray and perform religious rituals. In Cave Villa you can see more shrines and statues, many of which tell religious stories. Visit the Ramayana Cave to learn the story of Rama and see the large green-blue statue of Hanuman (the Monkey God) outside. Take a tour of the vast undeveloped Dark Cave to spot an array of cave-dwelling creatures, some of which aren’t found anywhere else.

#3 – Sunway Lagoon – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Kuala Lumpur

• Family-friendly attraction
• Wide assortment of rides and attractions
• Home to the first surfing simulator in Malaysia
• Built on former wasteland

Why it’s awesome: The award-winning Sunway Lagoon, located in Selangor, has six excellent parks to please various interests and ages. Built on wasteland created by a former tin mine, the park has been open since 1992. Today, it’s a premier attraction for families, groups of friends, and couples, attracting locals and visitors alike. The Water Park is a top place to cool down in the hot and humid temperatures. The Scream Park (suitable for anyone over the age of seven years old) is sure to send a shiver down your spine!

Thrill-seekers are sure to love the diverse activities in the Extreme Park, while the Amusement Park has cool rides for both adults and kids. The Wildlife Park is home to creatures from across the globe and Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon not only has cool themed attractions and rides for people of all ages but it was the first Nickelodeon theme park in Asia. There are numerous places to eat and drink throughout the huge park and there’s even a hotel if you want the fun to last for longer!

What to do there: Come face to face with more than 150 species of animals from around the world in the Wildlife Park. White tigers, lions, snakes, otters, prairie dogs, and birds are just a few creatures you’ll find throughout the various habitats. Have thrills and spills in the Extreme Park as you try activities like go-karting, kayaking, archery, bungee jumping, paintballing, and soar through the skies on the flying fox zipline. Meet all your favourite Nickelodeon characters in Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon, including Sponge Bob Square Pants, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Dodge the famous green sludge at the Great Slime Deluge and have fun on the diverse rides. Get wet and wild in the Water Park, with attractions like Surf Beach where you can try to ride the waves, kids’ water play areas, slides, and the cool Waterplexx 5D. Feel your pulse quicken in the Scream Park as you make your way round the frightening interactive experiences, and enjoy the various rides of the fun Amusement Park.

#4 – Alor Street Food Night Market – A must-see for foodies!

• Packed with diners in the evening
• Relaxed ambience
• Diverse cuisine
• Affordable prices

Why it’s awesome: Alor Street may not look all that exciting during the daytime, but come late afternoon / evening the area transforms into one of the hottest dining spots in Kuala Lumpur. Numerous vendors cook up fresh and tasty meals along Alor Street Food Night Market, with plenty of treats to tempt you. Munching on street food is an excellent way to travel cheap in Malaysia , and you can try a huge selection of local cuisine in a cool relaxed setting. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, and some eateries have indoor seating areas too.

What to do there: Feast on a wide selection of goodies at the fabulous Alor Street Food Night Market. Be sure to come hungry as there are bound to be many things that tickle your nostrils and taste buds! Stroll along the bustling street and watch as vendors cook an assortment of dishes. Peruse the menus and see what grabs your attention, then take a seat and wait for your delicacies to arrive!

Sink your teeth into dishes like the popular satay, oyster omelettes, fried chicken wings, dim sum, stir-fried noodles, soups, grilled fish, curries, and much, much more. Leave some space for desserts and drinks—the sweet coconut ice cream is very popular. Chill with a beer or fruit juice and listen to the music coming from buskers, and see different street performers looking to impress the crowds.

#5 – Lorong Panggung – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Kuala Lumpur!

• Tiny tucked-away alley
• Nostalgic ambience
• Surrounded in local tales
• Traditional foods

Why it’s awesome: Sometimes referred to by locals as Little Ghosts Alley, the narrow L-shaped alley of Lorong Panggung may be close to the vibrant Chinatown but the atmosphere is definitely worlds apart. Offering a peek into yesteryear, traditional shop houses line the street, some displaying peeled and cracked street art, and Chinese lanterns hang from strings overhead. Tiny shrines sit outside some establishments and old billboards have been used to provide cover and shade. It’s somehow simultaneously sleepy and yet busy with hungry customers at certain times of the day. There’s a good selection of places to sit down for a nostalgic meal and experience the Kuala Lumpa yesterday in an unhurried and tucked-away back alley away from the crowds.

What to do there: Absorb the laid-back vibe as you stroll along the small alleyway, noticing the brightly painted doorways, lanterns, shrines, and artwork. Take pictures of the old shop houses and soak up the olde-worlde charm. Come for a typical breakfast of boiled eggs, kaya toast, and tea and savour simple pleasures as you watch the street start to come to life. Alternatively, grab typical snacks or sit down to a lunch of fried noodles.

#6 – National Mosque of Malaysia – One of the most religious places to see in Kuala Lumpur

• Modern mosque
• Accessible to non-Muslims
• Symbol of a newly independent nation
• Interesting architecture

Why it’s awesome: The National Mosque of Malaysia is a huge Islamic place of worship set in extensive and attractive gardens. It can hold some 15,000 people at any given time. Standing on the site of an old church, the mosque was built in the 1960s and renovated in the 1980s. Sleek and modern, the mosque’s roof is especially interesting—covered in blue and green tiles, it is both star shaped and also looks like an open umbrella (a symbol of the tropics). The mosque is a striking symbol of Malaysia’s independence from British rule. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque and members of staff are happy to provide information about the building and about Islam.

What to do there: Remember to dress conservatively to visit the mosque. Outer garments and head coverings are provided for females. Stroll through the pretty gardens and admire the fountains, greenery, and reflecting pools. Gaze up at the minaret, which is 73 metres (240 feet) tall, and hear the call to prayer being sounded five times each day. Notice the unusual roof design and look inside the main hall, complete with an elegant chandelier, stylish calligraphy, traditional Islamic art, and plush carpet. You can also visit the nearby mausoleum, an attractive building in its own right, to see the final resting place of several eminent Muslim leaders.

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#7 – Central Market – A great place in Kuala Lumpur if you love to shop!

• Housed in a historical building
• Centre for arts, crafts, and traditional Malaysian goods
• Set out to resemble a traditional Malaysian market
• Great food court

Why it’s awesome: Kuala Lumpur’s Central Market is housed within a handsome Art Deco building that was constructed in 1937. It was built on the site of an old wet market, which was constructed in the 1880s during colonial rule. The original building was saved from demolition and went through expansions and alterations to become what it is today. Listed as a national Heritage Site, the interiors are set out like a traditional market, complete with colourful stalls brimming with an array of goods. It’s an especially great place to pick up arts and crafts. Goods represent the nation’s cultural and ethnic diversity.

What to do there: Admire the Art Deco façade from the outside before stepping into the lovely market to browse the diverse selection of goods. You’ll find traditional clothing, textiles, souvenirs, crafts, artworks, ceramics, collectibles, and more. Have a look in the Annexe, where you’ll find a number of top-class art galleries and pieces by local artists, and stop for a bite to eat in the second-floor food court. Outside, take a stroll along the lively Kasturi Walk, where you’ll find food vendors, souvenir stalls, and street entertainers.

#8 – Sultan Abdul Samad Building – A great place to see in Kuala Lumpur if you love architecture

• Colonial-period building with an important history
• Stunning architecture
• Earliest Moorish-style building in Kuala Lumpur
• Beautiful clock tower

Why it’s awesome: Situated close to Merdeka Square, the striking red and white Sultan Abdul Samad Building dates back to the 1890. Originally built to house the British colonial administrative offices, it later housed the country’s major courts and is today home to two government ministries. Initially known as simply Government House, it was later named after a Malay sultan. Designed in a Moorish style, it is the oldest such building in the city.

The two-level building is made from red bricks with white plaster details. The bells in the clock tower first rang out to celebrate the 1897 parade in hour of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, and they are still working today. The beautiful building is one of the city’s most photographed buildings and is a magnet for tourists.

What to do there: Gaze up at the 41-metre-high (134-foot-high) clock tower and listen for the enormous bell sounding the time every hour and half hour. At the base of the tower you can read a declaration of independence, in situ since 2007. Soak up the building’s overall splendour and notice the blend of Moorish, Gothic, and European styles. Be impressed by the elegant arches, grand porch, and glimmering onion domes atop the curvy colonnades. Visit the building at night time too to see it beautifully lit up.

#9 – National Museum of Malaysia – A fascinating educational place to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• Diverse collections
• Great place to learn more about the country’s past

Why it’s awesome: Open since 1963, the National Museum of Malaysia is the best place to learn more about the nation’s rich history, cultural diversity, heritage, and traditions. The large main building combines traditional Malay designs with modern elements, and there are a number of other interesting buildings scattered throughout the site too. The main building has four primary galleries dedicated to natural history and ethnology, with exhibits that range from ceramics, weaponry, and clothing, to musical instruments, everyday objects from yesteryear, and crafts. The museum also often hosts displays relating to world culture. Free tours are available on set days of the week, so plan ahead if you’re only on a 2 or 3-day itinerary in Kuala Lumpur .

What to do there: Explore the grounds of the National Museum of Malaysia, where you can see old-fashioned transportation methods like old carts, cars, and a steam train. Don’t miss the Proton Saga, the country’s first national car. Tour the different galleries, seeing the wide range of artefacts as you learn more about Malaysian life and history. Keen sportspeople shouldn’t miss looking in the National Sports Gallery. Travel back in time at Istana Satu, an ornate wood-built palace that was built in the 1880s and later moved to the museum grounds. Pop into the Orang Asli Crafts Museum to discover more about Malaysia’s earliest people and view interesting handicrafts.

#10 – KL Forest Eco Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• The only patch of tropical rainforest in the city
• Outdoor activities
• Site of one of the city’s first Malay settlements
• Major landmarks

Why it’s awesome: Previously known as Bukit Nanas (Pineapple Hill), KL Forest Eco Park contains a small hill and the only surviving tropical rainforest in the built-up city. The area was also home to one of the city’s earliest Malay settlements. Several interesting buildings are located on the hill, including the soaring Kuala Lumpur Tower and two colonial-period schools, yet it’s still a great place to escape the busy city streets and spend some time in nature. Visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities and there’s a small but interesting museum. The forest covers 22 acres (nine hectares) of land.

What to do there: Take a walk through the virgin rainforest along the jungle trails, looking out for diverse flora and fauna. There are plentiful birds and monkeys within the greenery. Test your head for heights on the cool canopy walk, stroll through the herb garden, and enjoy an al fresco lunch with a picnic surrounded by nature. Pop into the visitors centre and visit the forestry museum. You can also see the two colonial-built schools of Convent Bukit Nanas and the 1904 National Heritage Site St. John’s Institution.

#11 – Merdeka Square – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• Scene of the yearly National Day Parade
• First place where the Malaysian flag was lifted after the nation’s independence
• Surrounded by interesting architecture
• Historical significance

Why it’s awesome: Known locally as Dataran Merdeka, Mardeka Square is a large lawn at the heart of colonial Kuala Lumpur. The name translates as Independence Square and it was here that the British flag was lowered, replaced by the Malaysian flag for the first time when the country gained independence. The soaring flagpole is one of the tallest in the world and the national flag still flutters proudly in the breeze. There are several striking buildings around the square and today it’s a popular place for leisure and relaxation.

What to do there: While there isn’t actually an awful lot to do at Merdeka Square itself, it’s a must-visit for any travellers visiting Malaysia for its historical and cultural significance. See the gigantic flagpole and sit relaxing for a while in the sunshine on the grass. It’s a great place for kids to run and play too. You can also see the Cop’s Fountain, which was built in honour of a beloved police officer. Admire nearby fine buildings, such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, St. Mary’s Church, the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, and the Royal Selangor Club.

#12 – Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Kuala Lumpur!

• Tropical paradise
• Home to more than 200 species of birds
• Opportunity to hand feed birds
• Great place to take kids

Why it’s awesome: The family-friendly Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is among the biggest covered bird parks in the world. It houses some 3,000 birds from more than 200 species. Most of the birds are those that live in Malaysia, though there are also species brought from other places around the world, including Thailand, New Guinea, Australia, and Tanzania. Covering almost 21 acres (8.5 hectares), it’s a great place to spend a few hours with your kids or that special someone. The park has gift shops and places to stop for refreshments too.

What to do there: Plan to spend a few hours exploring the large bird park to fully appreciate the four terrific zones and the many types of birds. Walk through the net-covered aviary of Zone 1 and see avian species like pheasants, peacocks, flamingos, pelicans, kites, parakeets, and cockatiels. Cross the bridges into Zone 2 where you’ll come across birds like the ostrich, Nicobar pigeon, and Baya weaver. In Zone 3 you can try to spot the unusual and colourful hornbills in the towering treetops.

If you’re a fan of big birds and colourful avian species, head to Zone 4; inhabitants include a diverse selection of parrots, cassowaries, emus, and ostriches. Call into the Bird Gallery to learn more about taxidermy processes, stop at the feeding stations to watch birds being hand fed (and maybe have a go yourself), and see various bird shows throughout the day at the amphitheatre.

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#13 – Royal Museum – A great place to visit in Kuala Lumpur if you are alone/traveling solo

• Former royal palace
• Rooms are almost as they were when the royals lived there
• Great views
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: The Royal Museum is housed inside the old Istana Negara (royal palace). The building was still used as the royal residence up until 2011, having been the royal palace since the 1950s. The elegant building was initially constructed as a private home by an affluent Chinese tin trader. During wartime the building was used by the Japanese to house their officers and then, after surrender, the British RAF occupied the building. Later, it became the Malay National Palace. It’s now open to visitors, letting members of the public see how royalty lived until fairly recent times.

What to do there: Imagine that you’re a king or queen as you enter the opulent building and see lavish rooms furnished as they would have been when they were used by the Malaysian royal family. Feast your eyes on the splendour of the reception rooms, noting the heavy use of the royal colours of yellow and gold. The bedrooms are somewhat more basic in their furnishings, but it’s still interesting to see where royals once slept. Admire the sweeping views from the hillside location across the Klang River.

#14 – Jamek Mosque – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Kuala Lumpur

• Gorgeous religious building
• Open to non-Muslims
• No admission charges
• Great photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Kuala Lumpur’s stunning Jamek Mosque (also sometimes called the Friday Mosque) is one of the oldest Islamic mosques in the city. Built in the early 1900s, it was designed by the same architect responsible for the attractive Sultan Abdul Samad Building. It stands on the site of an old burial ground. The photogenic mosque was the main city mosque until the National Park was constructed. It was built in a typical Indian Mughal style and has many attractive details and features. It is free to look around the beautiful mosque.

What to do there: Be wowed by the glorious architecture of the red and white Jamek Mosque, complete with different sized minarets, and three large domes. Call into the Islamic Experience Centre to learn more about the faith and its traditions, history, and rituals. Walk through the pretty grounds, admiring the fountains and reflecting pools. Remember to dress modestly when visiting the mosques. Ladies can borrow headscarves and gowns to look around the religious building.

#15 – Thean Hou Temple – One of the nicer places in Kuala Lumpur to sightsee!

• Popular wedding venue
• Ornate and colourful Chinese temple
• One of the biggest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia
• Fairly new temple

Why it’s awesome: The large and beautiful Thean Hou Temple was built in the late 1980s by members of Malaysia’s Hainanese community. Among the largest temples in Southeast Asia, the six-tiered religious building fuses elements from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism and has modern features alongside traditional elements. There are many ornate details, vibrant colours, and interesting statues. Dedicated to Thean Hou, a Chinese goddess who looks over fishermen, there are several other deities honoured throughout the temple too.

Various events and celebrations are held at the temple throughout the year, with Chinese New Year and significant Buddhist holidays especially busy. Other celebrations include those in honour of the temple’s three main deities, and it’s a popular place for wedding ceremonies. Within the grounds there are also fortune tellers and classes in activities like tai-chi and qigong.

What to do there: Pass through the large red archway at the entrance to the temple and wander through the picturesque grounds. Find your birth animal according to Chinese astrology, with large statues set near the tortoise-filled pond. Make a wish at the Wishing Well, walk through the herb garden, stand beneath the sacred Boddhi tree, and pray to the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin, at the small ornamental waterfall. Admire the multi-level pagoda-like building from the outside before going inside to see various statues and religious art. See locals praying and seeking blessings at the major shrines, dedicated to Thean Hou, Guan Yin, and Wei Sheng Niang.

#16 – Aquaria KLCC – Awesome place to visit in Kuala Lumpur with kids!

• One of the biggest aquariums in Southeast Asia
• Opportunity to dive with sharks!
• Home to a vast array of aquatic creatures
• Fun and informative

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2005, Aquaria KLCC can be found within the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The huge aquarium is home to around 250 different species of aquatic and land-based creatures from around Malaysia and beyond. There are several themed areas, including those modelled after the highlands, rivers, rainforests, mangroves, reefs, and the sea, taking visitors along water’s journey from land to the ocean. Educational and informative, visitors are sure to learn lots of new interesting facts as they explore the gigantic aquarium. There’s also a large water-based gift shop.

What to do there: Learn more about the underwater world and chart water’s course across land until it meets the ocean. Marvel at a huge array of creatures, including corals, sea snakes, tiger sharks, groupers, seahorses, rays, eels, crabs, and catfish. Reptiles, spiders, otters, water rats, and frogs are among the land creatures you’ll find in the aquarium. Walk through the stretching underwater tunnel, watching as things like enormous stingrays and sharks swim all around you.

Observe fearsome piranhas devouring their food, discover more about conservation efforts, see the realistic shipwreck, watch unusual creatures, see various animals being fed, and get up close and personal with diverse creatures at the touch pools. If you’re feeling brave you can even go diving with sharks!

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#17 – Menara Kuala Lumpur – Great place to visit in Kuala Lumpur for couples!

• Incredible panoramic vistas
• Major city landmark
• Great revolving restaurant
• Among the world’s tallest communications towers

Why it’s awesome: In operation since 1995, the Menara Kuala Lumpur (also known as the KL Tower) is a prominent feature on the city’s skyline. It is 421 metres (1,381 feet) tall when the antenna is included. It is home to the city’s highest observation point accessible to the general public. The upper lobby has many exquisite and sparkling features, while the large shopping mall boasts beautiful fountains. There are many traditional Islamic decorative details Used as a communications tower, the tower also plays an important role during the Islamic month of Ramadan when it is used to spot the crescent moon.

What to do there: Ride in the super-fast elevators to reach the observation deck from where you can enjoy splendid sweeping views across the city; see if you can spot your Kuala Lumpur hostel ! Impress your sweetheart with a delicious meal in the stylish revolving restaurant and watch as the views change before your eyes. You can go up the tower both during the day and at night for different perspectives of the capital. Admire the large glass-covered domes in the upper lobby, floral patterns, beautiful tile work, and Quranic calligraphy. Shop for souvenirs, gifts, and lavish treats in the long mall. Outside, see the 100-year-old tree that was preserved during the construction of the tower.

#18 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple – A perfect place to visit in Kuala Lumpur if you are on a budget!

• Oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur
• Colourful and detailed
• Spiritual ambience
• No admission charge

Why it’s awesome: The Sri Mahamariamman Temple was built in the 1870s and it’s one of the oldest Hindu places of worship in Kuala Lumpur. Constructed as a serene spot where Tamil workers could take a break and get in touch with their spiritual side, the temple is still used as an important place of worship today. It has striking details, not least the large and colourful gopurum (tower) at the entrance.

There are numerous statues and lots of religious artwork inside too. It honours Goddess Mariamman, often viewed as a protector of Southern Indians overseas. The temple really bursts to life on holy days, particularly at Thaipusam, when a silver chariot departs from outside. There is no charge to enter the temple, though donations are appreciated.

What to do there: You should remember to dress respectfully and remove your shoes before entering the religious complex. Marvel at the multi-level gopurum, believed to act as the gateway between the material and spiritual worlds. The colourful tower has many intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, flowers, animals, and symbols. Inside, watch people pray and make offerings in the main temple building, inhale the sweet scents of burning incense, and soak up the peaceful air. Admire the rich surroundings, complete with scenes from the Ramayana, gorgeous tilework, hand-painted artwork, domed ceiling, and shrines.

#19 – Kampung Baru – One of the most underrated places to see in Kuala Lumpur

• Traditional street foods
• One of the city’s oldest residential areas
• Olde-world atmosphere and way of life
• Charming Malay enclave

Why it’s awesome: Kampung Baru is a delightful Malay enclave in the heart of the bustling city. It was founded at the end of the 19 th century. One of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest residential areas, it still feels like a traditional Malay community today. People live as they have done for many decades and the pace of life is unhurried and relaxed. There are many heritage buildings throughout the area and it’s a great place to see a way of life long since forgotten in most other parts of the rapidly changing city. It’s also a top destination for foodies!

What to do there: Spend some time leisurely strolling around Kampung Baru, smiling back at friendly locals, seeing the traditional buildings, and enjoying the peaceful vibe. See the politically important Kelab Sultan Sulaiman, the traditional dwelling of Rumah Limas, and the little blue house that’s known as Master Mat’s House. Call by Jamek Kampung Baru Mosque and Gurdwara Tatt Khalsa Temple, two of the area’s main religious buildings. Let your senses guide you along Jalan Raja Muda Musa, a fabulous place for street food, and sample a tasty array of local fare. If you’re still in Kampung Baru come evening time, visit the thriving fruit and veg market along Jalan Raja Alang.

#20 – Guan Di Temple – One of Kuala Lumpur’s coolest historical sites!

• Lesser-visited temple
• Links to martial arts
• Long history
• Interesting statues

Why it’s awesome: Guan Di Temple (also sometimes referred to as Kwong Siew Free School) is among the most impressive Taoist temples in Kuala Lumpur. Built in 1888, it hours the Chinese god of war and literature. Many believers come here to pray and seek help from the deity. The ornate temple is home to a mighty traditional Chinese weapon, known as Guan Dao. Weighing in at a whopping 59 kilograms (130 pounds), it is said that touching or lifting the weapon will bring good luck to people. The complex has many interesting statues and shrines too.

What to do there:  Pass the fearsome temple guards and lions to enter the complex and go to the back of the temple for a closer peek at the formidable wooden statue of Guan Di. Two other statues stand near the golden-faced God of War: Guan Ping (Guan Di’s godson) and Zhou Cang (Guan Di’s standard bearer). You can also see various other statues depicting Chinese gods and goddesses, including Guan Yin, Wen Chong, and Choy Sun. Try and lift the Guan Dao, thought to have magical powers, and take lots of photos of the glorious building, with its embellished roof and dragon pillars.

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#21 – Putrajaya – A very cool place in Kuala Lumpur to go for a day

• Striking mosque
• Lovely lake
• Lesser-visited destination
• Wildlife-filled wetlands

Why it’s awesome: Although technically a different area of Malaysia to Kuala Lumpur, the nearby city of Putrajaya is well worth visiting for a day from the Malaysian capital. It is home to a wealth of attractions and activities and sees relatively few foreign tourists. There are beautiful natural areas to discover, unusual architectural gems, historical sights, great shopping spots, and more. Putrajaya is the federal administrative centre of Malaysia and it is easy to reach from KL by bus or car.

What to do there: Visit the impressive Putra Mosque, open to non-Muslims, and admire the dusky-pink dome and interiors as well as the towering minarets. If you’re into unusual architecture, head to the Moroccan Pavilion. Showing the strong relationship between the two nations, the stunning pavilion showcases beautiful North African designs, with the finishing details completed by Moroccan artisans. Other interesting landmarks in Putrajaya include the prime minister’s official home of Seri Perdana, the Millennium Monument, the resort-style royal retreat of Istana Melawati, the Palace of Justice, and Perdana Putra.

Stand in Putra Square and National Heroes Square, learn more about the country’s natural treasures at the Natural History Museum, and shop till you drop in Alamanda Putrajaya. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Putrajaya Lake, China-Malaysia Friendship Garden, Putrajaya Wetlands Park, and the Botanical Gardens, while attractions like Putrajaya Equestrian Park and Putrajaya Water Sports Complex add an extra thrill to your trip.

#22 – Brickfields – Cool place to see in Kuala Lumpur with friends!

• Kuala Lumpur’s colourful Little India
• Many religious buildings
• Great places to eat
• Fantastic shopping opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Brickfields is Kuala Lumpur’s Little India, home to people from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and other nearby countries. Many residents are descendants of workers brought to Malaysia by the British. Vibrant and lively, visitors would be forgiven for thinking that they had somehow been transported to the large and diverse India when wandering around Brickfields. Shops sell traditional Indian items and there’s an abundance of tasty Indian dishes.  There are numerous interesting places of worship too.

What to do there: Hear modern Bollywood tunes coming from shops and take a peek inside to shop for saris, bangles, amulets, spices, and other Indian goods. Head into the large bazaar for even more fantastic shopping. Stop into a local restaurant for a banana leaf curry or other spicy speciality. Snap a picture or two of the pretty Vivekananda Ashram and visit serene places of worship like the Tamil Methodist Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Absorb the enticing Indian spirit without leaving the Malaysian capital.

#23 – Titiwangsa Lake Gardens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Kuala Lumpur

• Great place for leisure
• Varied activities
• Peaceful and quiet

Why it’s awesome: Titiwangsa Lake Gardens is a large public park with a number of shimmering lakes. Covering 235 acres (95 hectares), more than 50% of the park is lakes. The large lake was created during tin mining activities in the colonial days, and the area was later turned into a pleasant park. There are various activities, both on the water and on dry land, and it’s a nice place to relax and unwind for a couple of hours.

What to do there: Appreciate the pretty lake views and take to the waters for canoeing, kayaking, aqua biking, and rowing. Stroll around the water’s edge and get active with horse riding and jogging. You can also have heaps of fun at the radio controlled car track, which is especially popular with kids and teens. There are places to buy refreshments and great spots throughout the park for a picnic.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

What are the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for couples?

Spend a fun filled day cooling off at the Sunway Lagoon. The Water Park has heaps of slides, pools and a surf simulator!

What are the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur at night?

Head up the KL Tower at night, or even better, just as night is falling, for some stunning views over the city. There’s also a revolving restaurant up there!

What are some unique places to visit in Kuala Lumpur?

Slightly out of town is the stunning Batu Caves. This series of Hindu temples in a number of magnificent limestone caves is unmissable!

What are some relaxing places to visit in Kuala Lumpur?

Sit back and relax at Merdeka Square, one of the most culturally important spots in Malaysia. The large lawns of Independence Square are a wonderful place to watch the world go by.

Kuala Lumpur is an absolute gem and also one of the safest cities in Malaysia that you now know is a travelers wonderland just waiting for you to explore it. Enjoy high-end and high-street shopping in the city’s many malls, which include The Gardens Mall, Suria KLCC, Nu Sentral Shopping Centre, Quill City Mall, Sungei Wang Plaza, and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, and upgrade your electronics at the huge Plaza Low Yat.

Take day trips to places like Kuala Selangor, the Genting Highlands, and Port Dickson, take kids to the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park and National Science Centre, and cast your gaze skywards at the Planetarium Negara.

From beautiful religious buildings, theme parks, and colonial architecture to pretty parks, quaint hidden alleyways, street art, and bustling markets, there are plenty of reasons to go to Malaysia , and it all starts in KL Add these best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for a fantastic time in the Malaysian capital city.

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31 best things to do in Kuala Lumpur

This is the definitive guide to the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur, with more street food than you can handle

We’ll get the obvious out of the way first; if you like street food, you will fall deeply in love with Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian capital is a veritable foodie haven, with finger-licking magic waiting around every corner. Hungry visitors are in for a real treat. The best things to do in KL cover much more than marvellous morsels. There is history, culture, architecture and excitement here, with one of the best nightlife scenes in the region and lots of activities to boot. One of the coolest cities on the planet? There's absolutely no doubt about it.

RECOMMENDED:  🍽 The best restaurants and cafés in KL 🛏 The best boutique hotels in KL 🌳 The best parks in KL 🎸 The best live music venues in KL

An email you’ll actually love

The best things to do in KL

1.  People-watch at REXKL

• Things to do
• Petaling Street

What is it? An iconic cinema in the once-lacklustre downtown KL repurposed and revived into a 60,000 sq ft arts-and-culture mixed-use hub.

Why go? There’s always something going on at REXKL: art installations by the likes of Ernest Zacharevic, Fahmi Reza and Pangrok Sulap, Dungeons & Dragons board game meets; curated flea markets hawking antiques, jewellery,  thrift clothing, Friday Night Mic comedy sets from the city’s fast-rising comedians, DJ nights, live music, themed parties, film screenings, skate jams, workshops, and more. 

Fuel up at the food hall, The Back Ground, home to Alta Cafe’s Alta Burger, Hijau, Licky Chan, Stellar Coffee, and Phil’s Pizza. Over at The REX Bar, you’ll find craft beers, cocktails, and sparkling tuak (Sarawakian rice wine) on tap. On the rooftop is shhhbuuuleee, an East Asian restobar serving up small plates and saké. The tenants are an ever-evolving lineup but for the time being, you can visit BilaBila Mart for a reimagined kedai runcit (convenience store) retail experience, BookXcess, a bibliophile's paradise with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and Outsiders Bikes, an all-terrain adventure bike shop. 

Don’t miss: Snap a pic for the ’gram (or take a clip for the ’tok?) at BookXcess. Everyone’s doing it.

2.  Feast on fancy Malaysian food at the Michelin-starred Dewakan

• Restaurants
• price 3 of 4

What is it? Oh, just Malaysia’s top restaurant according to Asia's 50 Best and the Michelin Guide. No biggie. 

Why go? A portmanteau of the Malay words dewa and makan —meaning “god” and “food”—Dewakan can be interpreted as “food of gods.” At the helm of chef-proprietor Darren Teoh, Dewakan redefines modern Malaysian cuisine with a spotlight on indigenous ingredients—such as buah keluak and kulim —and locally- and sustainably-sourced produce. There’s only one prix fixe tasting menu at RM788.80 per pax. Some highlights from the current menu include aged mackerel cured in smoked busut vinegar with a salad of bamboo shoots and flowers, mussels grilled over charcoal covered in a sauce of fermented tapioca then topped with cured egg yolk and cooked saba bananas, and pearl clams from Sabah served with a cold soup of selom and mint. 

Don’t miss: The view. Located on Level 48 of Naza Tower, the restaurant comes with spectacular sights as the sun sets over the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

3.  Taman Paramount

In 2020, Time Out listed Taman Paramount as one of the top 40 coolest neighbourhoods in the world—and for good reason. The slender stretch of Jalan 20/13 is where cool kids go to be and be seen, but it’s still very much its own suburb with ol’ school charm by the spades, as much as a destination for dining, drinking and thrifting as it is for auto repair and kedai runcit provisions.

4.  Support Malaysian traditional arts at a PUSAKA show

What is it? In the face of present-day challenges, PUSAKA is a cultural non-profit working to support the continuity and the viability of traditional Malaysian art forms. A PUSAKA show is the closest you’ll get to experience these performances as the custodians intended without having to head out of the city. (In fact, you could try, but even then, traditional arts are banned in PAS-led states.)

Why go? Mak yong , manora , wayang kulit: it’s traditional performing arts like you’ve never seen before. (Your high school’s amateur dikir barat troupe performing on Teacher’s Day does not count.) The ancient wayang kulit is regularly performed at PUSAKA events, along with main puteri , kuda kepang , and tarian asyik traditions of Kelantan, and cultural dances and music by the Mah Meri of Selangor, the Teochew Puppetry of Penang, and more. 

Don’t miss: For real, go to any PUSAKA show. We guarantee a cultural and visual spectacle to be appreciated by almost anyone. Stay updated on Instagram ; the shows are typically free admission but with limited capacity, so run, don’t walk.

5.  Ride the KL Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

What is it? A double-decked, open-top city tour bus.

Why go? Whether it’s your first time in KL or if you’re playing tourist in your own city, take in the most popular sights at your own pace on a hop-on, hop-off tour. With 27 stops—including Little India, Masjid Jamek, Kampung Baru, Petaling Street and Suria KLCC—and over 60 attractions, get on and off at any stop and listen to insights with on-board English audio commentary. There’s a night tour too if you prefer to see the city's famous landmarks illuminated after dark.

Don’t miss: The views from the top deck, no matter how congested traffic is.

6.  Marvel at the city skyline at Vertigo, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur

• Bars and pubs
• Bukit Bintang

What is it?  The city’s tallest hotel rooftop bar, Vertigo is perched on Level 59 of the stylish Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur.

Why go?  The iconic KL skyline has become the backdrop to many a night out, and Vertigo ticks all the boxes - uninterrupted panoramas and a good selection of wine, beer and cocktails.

Don’t miss:  Snag a seat in front of the bar, where the view includes both the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower.

7.  Indulge in street eats along Jalan Alor

• price 1 of 4

What is it?  Come dusk, this street becomes a cacophony of aromas, noise and food. Hawker stalls and roadside restaurants clamour for your attention offering all kinds of local and regional cuisines.

Why go?  For the sheer variety of local food, from moreish salted egg cab and spicy grilled fish to noodles in rich broths and typical local hawker dishes, Jalan Alor’s reputation as a red-light area has been diminished by the fact that there is so much food and cold beer to be had.

Don’t miss:  Smoky barbecued chicken wings from  Wong Ah Wah , the most famous of Jalan Alor’s eateries, plus they close at 4am.

8.  Explore KL’s coolest creative space at the Zhongshan Building

What is it?  A pre-1950s building rejuvenated into an independent creative arts and research hub, housing arts, cultural and retail spaces.

Why go?  This community space is home to various art galleries, exhibition spaces, live music bars, record shops and bookstores championing local artists and writers. There’s almost always something going on here – whether it’s an exhibition by local artists, a talk on how literature has developed in the country or a gig by underground musicians, there’s rarely an event-free weekend here.

Don’t miss:   Malaysia Design Archive  – an initiative that preserves and maps the country’s visual history and culture and helps cultivate a sense of appreciation through various talks and workshops.

9.  Explore the cool suburb of Damansara Heights

What is it?  A really, really cool suburb.

Why go?  This suburb (also known as Bukit Damansara) has everything you need and want for a full day (or two) of exploration. It was primarily a residential and office area, but recent years have seen plenty of swanky restaurants ( Birch ), cool bars ( Skullduggery ,  JungleBird ) and trendy live music spaces popping up in the neighbourhood.

Don’t miss:    Plaza Batai  – a group of shophouses that comprise modern eateries, an upscale grocer, kitschy boutiques and more.

10.  Taste culinary history at Yut Kee

• price 2 of 4

What is it?  A famed family-run heritage restaurant where the same dishes have been served for generations.

Why go?  If a restaurant has been serving the same dishes for nine decades, it must know what it is doing. Dine off marble-topped coffee shop tables, observe the quirkily efficient way the long queues of diners are managed and add Lea & Perrins sauce to everything!

Don’t miss:  Signature dishes – kaya toast, chicken/pork chops, roti babi (translates to ‘pig bread’, but is really a deep-fried pork sandwich), Hailam noodles, buttery marble cake.

11.  Visit Masjid Negara

• KL City Centre

What is it?  The country’s impressive national mosque with contemporary designs and an open layout for plenty of natural light.

Why go?  Its stunning architecture was designed by Malaysian architects Hisham Albakri and Baharuddin Kassim and British Howard Ashley, who veered away from traditional dome tops and gave Masjid Negara a grand star-shaped dome and a 73m high minaret. It’s set within 13 acres of lush landscaped gardens with pools and fountains.

Don’t miss:  Looking up at the majestic roof and walking around the grounds. Remember to dress appropriately when visiting this place of worship.

12.  Sip on gin at Pahit

What is it?  A cosy specialist bar focusing on all things gin and the brainchild of CK Kho, the award-winning bartender behind the popular Bangsar watering hole Coley.

Why go?  A favourite among KLites, Pahit offers a calm and cosy space in the city to enjoy after-work or weekend drinks. The menu boasts an impressive list of gins from around the world, and the fruit-infused G&Ts are refreshing. Pahit often hosts guest shifts by award-winning bartenders from around the world, alongside various workshops, masterclasses and talks.

Don’t miss:  The house speciality, Gin Pahit #2 – the bar’s take on the classic Pink Gin, made with London dry gin, orange bitters, lime and homemade falernum syrup.

13.  Take a photo of the Twin Towers

• Attractions

What is it?  Arguably Malaysia’s most iconic symbol, the Petronas Twin Towers are a magnificent sight and are one picture everyone should have of the city.

Why go?  KL’s claim to fame is these Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world. While there is a two-storey Sky Bridge and an Observation Deck that opens up to stunning views of the city, it is the view of the Towers themselves that are the most impressive.

Don’t miss:  Don’t join the throngs right in front of the Towers. Instead, cross the road for a different angle. But be careful crossing the busy street, and don’t disrupt traffic.

14.  Party the night away at Changkat Bukit Bintang

What is it?  A bustling street lined with various bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants – great for a night out from dinner to partying and bar hopping.

Why go?  From crowded dance floors and noisy pubs to stylish bars and eateries with food that hits the spot after (or in the middle of) a night of partying, alongside old favourites (Havana Bar and Grill,  Pisco Bar ) and newer additions ( Cielo KL  and Canvass Bistro & Cocktail Bar ), Changkat Bukit Bintang is an enduring district in KL’s nightlife scene.

Don’t miss:  The fantastic deals on drinks. Most bars have great weekday promotions (especially for ladies), so if you’re looking for a mid-week pick-me-up, head here.

15.  Stroll around Dataran Merdeka

• Masjid Jamek

What is it?  The most famous field in Malaysia where independence was declared on 31 August 1957. The former world’s tallest flagpole is here, at 95m, proudly flying the Jalur Gemilang.

Why go?  Surrounding the square are colonial-era landmark buildings depicting various styles of architecture, including Moorish, Moghul, Colonial and Straits Chinese. Follow the heritage walking trail and take in the sights like the Sultan Abdul Samad building and the Queen Victoria Fountain.

Don’t miss:  Take the KL Night Walk (similar to the Heritage Walk), which will lead you to lively night markets, street bazaars and the Panggung Bandaraya, the oldest theatre in the country.

16.  Chow down on an all-Malaysian Ramly burger at Brader John

• Street food

What is it?  From small burger stalls to food trucks, the ubiquitous Ramly burger is found in every neighbourhood, usually near a petrol station or 7-11.

Why go?  This is a Malaysian culinary icon, comprising mystery meat smothered in mayo, chilli sauce, processed cheese and egg wrapped in the kind white bun that absorbs everything. It’s messy and oozing with post-clubbing and hangover goodness.

Don’t miss:    Brader John Burger ’s famous Master burger – two Ramly beef/chicken patties with egg and cheese. They open at 10pm, and there’s always a queue, but it’s worth it.

17.  Dig into banana leaf rice at Sri Nirwana Maju

What is it?  A perpetually bustling eatery, Sri Nirwana is the go-to for banana leaf rice, where locals and tourists sit side-by-side digging into curried banana leaf rice.

Why go?  Sri Nirwana has been around for over ten years, but the constant crowds bear testament to the quality of the place. The winning combination of generous servings and consistently good banana leaf rice with top-notch curries and sides make it worth any wait (and price). Remember to order a side of fried chicken or squid.

Don’t miss:  The deep-fried bitter gourd. They come with the meal, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself asking for more of these addictive munchies.

18.  Get to know the Mah Meri culture at Pulau Carey

What is it?  Pulau Carey (or Carey Island) is home to the indigenous Mah Meri tribe and the Mah Meri Cultural Village, a space where the tribe shares and passes on their cultural heritage.

Why go?  This tribe has a distinctive culture over a hundred years old, and they’re internationally renowned for their intricate wooden masks and carvings. The Cultural Village houses a museum and a traditional house and organises workshops that teach the Mah Meri art of wood carving, leaf origami and pandanus weaving. Visitors can also catch traditional dances and ritual demonstrations that showcase their rich cultural heritage.

Don’t miss:  Hari Moyang – or Spirit’s Day – is an annual festival that honours and pays respect to the guardian of the villages. Visitors are welcomed to join and participate in selected parts of the ceremonial activities.

19.  Slurp up bak kut teh under the Klang Bridge

What is it?  Bak Kut Teh or BKT is a traditional soup made with various cuts of pork from soft and spare ribs, lean meat and ‘spare parts’ (innards). It’s cooked in a rich broth of Chinese herbs and can have mushrooms and tofu puffs added.

Why go?  For a bowl of awesome comfort food where every food group is represented. The soup-rich broth is the star, full of porky goodness and herbal oomph. The tofu puffs, lettuce, shitake mushrooms and char kueh is just the icing on the cake.

Don’t miss:  Under The Bridge Bak Kut,  Restoran Seng Huat  is as old school as it gets and one of the Klang originals. It’s all about the pork soup and rice here, so don’t expect fancy enoki mushrooms and vegetables.

20.  Take up a cooking class at LaZat

What is it?  A cooking school with a difference,  Lazat  offers cooking classes focusing on authentic Malaysian dishes, including nasi lemak, beef rendang, curry laksa and roti canai.

Why go?  Recipes are family favourites, and the instructors are passionate about local cuisine. Classes are hands-on and begin with a trip to a local market to familiarise participants with ingredients. After cooking, everyone sits down for meal. The school is in a lovely house in the Penchala hills just outside the city.

Don’t miss:  The chance to choose from courses and menus covering different Malaysian cultures – Malay, Nyonya, Chinese and Indian. You prepare all the courses, while the dessert course is a demo.

21.  Climb the rainbow staircase at Batu Caves

What is it?  A limestone cave complex in Gombak that is one of the most famous Hindu temples outside India. The 272 steps leading to the top were painted in vibrant rainbow shades not too long ago.

Why go?  The temple was built in 1891 in honour of Lord Murugan, and the first Thaipusam was celebrated in 1892. It has the tallest (42.7m) statue of Lord Murugan in the world, nonchalant (cheeky) monkeys roaming about and is the best place to experience Thaipusam in all its glory.

Don’t miss:  Climb the 272 colourful steps to the Temple Cave – the largest in the complex – then visit the Ramayana Cave (named after the Hindu epic) watched over by Hanuman.

22.  Check out the arts and crafts at Central Market

• Gifts and souvenirs

What is it?  A classic Art Deco building housing a warren of arts, crafts and antique shops.

Why go?  Constructed in 1888 as a wet market for the then-bustling town, the building went through a major refurbishment in the 1930s and was transformed into what it is today. Now, it’s filled with shops selling everything from tourist tat to fantastic local handicrafts.

Don’t miss:  The Annexe Gallery, located on the second floor, is an art space where local artists and performers stage art exhibitions, gigs, film screenings and theatre productions.

23.  Get up close and personal with marine life at Aquaria KLCC

What is it?  The best aquarium in the country housing over 5,000 aquatic species.

Why go?  A great way to spend a fun educational afternoon with the kids. They’ll see aquatic animals they may not get a chance to in the wild and learn about the different bodies of water on the planet like mangroves, deep oceans and streams.

Don’t miss:  The regular feeding sessions and special sessions where divers hand feed the larger fishes.

24.  Cool shopping at Ilham Gallery

What is it?  A public art gallery with a well-curated gift shop carrying more than 50 unique, quirky Malaysian brands.

Why go?  The range of gifts and souvenirs is sourced from artisans, designers and craftspeople from all over Malaysia. Brands like Nala, Loka Made and Bingka. This is a great place for gifts, as you can pick up coffee table art books, limited edition prints, unique stationery and card games with a distinct Malaysian feel.

Don’t miss:  After visiting the gallery and shopping, sit down for coffee and cake baked by a social enterprise called Bake With Dignity.

25.  Immerse in art at the National Art Gallery

What is it?  Malaysia’s official venue for all things art, including galleries hosting local and international artworks.

Why go?  As the country’s premier art venue, the National Art Gallery strives to cultivate a sense of appreciation for the arts through showcasing works by Malaysia’s leading artists, hosting shows that feature up-and-coming local talents alongside international artists, as well as organising art talks and workshops. Permanent displays and international exhibitions span photography, paintings, sculptures and more.

Don’t miss:  The permanent collection of art, comprising over 2,000 pieces by renowned local and international artists.

26.  Check out the night market action at Taman Connaught

• Markets and fairs

What is it?  Every Wednesday, one of the largest night markets in the city swings into hectic action at Taman Connaught in Cheras.

Why go?  Almost 700 stalls offer a vast array of hawker food, local snacks, questionable tech gadgets, household items and provisions at a cheaper price than the shops. This is a KL night market at its busiest – go hungry and nibble your way through.

Don’t miss:  There are all kinds of intriguing food here, but stinky tofu is the clear winner. The smell is obviously an acquired taste, but it’s pretty good!

27.  Go on a temple trail in Chinatown

What is it?  KL’s Chinatown revolves around Petaling Street – one of the most historical parts of the city. Discover a profusion of temples showcasing a microcosm of different cultures and religions.

Why go?  Being a multi-cultural country means embracing different religions and beliefs, and a wander through Chinatown will bring you to Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in KL. There’s also a succession of Taoist temples honouring Guan Di (God of War), Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) and Chan See Shu Yuen, a former clan house.

Don’t miss:  The  Sin Sze Si Ya Temple  is the oldest Taoist temple in KL and was built by Yap Ah Loy, the third Kapitan Cina, in 1864. Get your fortune told by the temple caretaker after rattling the kao chim (fortune-telling sticks).

28.  Catch a performance by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra

• Music venues

What is it?  The MPO is a symphony orchestra of musicians from 25 nations.

Why go?  The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra is the resident orchestra at the Dewan Filharmonik Orchestra (DFP), which has hosted world-famous singers and musicians, including Branford Marsalis, Andrea Bocelli and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. They have a vibrant weekly programme including family-orientated afternoons and perform across genres from classical to pop and jazz.

Don’t miss:  Seasonal specials and performances by visiting orchestras and performers.

29.  Have a fun family day at KLCC Park

• Parks and gardens

What is it?  KL’s favourite park – 50 acres of lush greenery set in the busy city centre and home to over 1,000 indigenous trees and plants.

Why go?  This deceptively large urban park was designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx and is home to a children’s playground with fantastic play equipment, fountains and jogging tracks. Gazebos and benches are scattered about the park, making for great picnic spots.

Don’t miss:  Lake Symphony – the daily light and music show set at the fountains in front of Suria KLCC. It’s a fun and simple way to wind down after a family day.

30.  Catch the sunrise at Broga Hill

What is it?  Located a short way from the city is Broga Hill, a popular hiking trail suitable for casual hikers, nature lovers and trail runners.

Why go?  Hiking is enjoying a renaissance, and the Broga Hill trail is easily accessible and suitable even for beginners as long as you are fit(ish). The hike takes about an hour, and most people head up at the crack of dawn to catch the sunrise. Remember to go prepared – water, hat, sunscreen, bug repellent and proper shoes.

Don’t miss:  OUTBAC Broga (temporarily closed), an adventure campsite near the hill offering outdoor activities like rock climbing and mountain biking.

31.  Have family fun at Mari House

What is it?  The ideal escape from city life – a house in Templer Park that has been converted into a brilliant outdoor venue with a big garden.

Why go?  The kids can run around and enjoy the great outdoors, get their hands dirty, learn about plants and enjoy outdoor picnics. There are also regular garden high teas with freshly baked and cooked food and a much-appreciated glass of wine for the parents!

Don’t miss:  Sign the city kids up for a morning of fun play farming where they’ll learn how their food goes from farm to fork, catch fish in the stream and enjoy a picnic.

More great things to do in Kuala Lumpur

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Must-see attractions in Kuala Lumpur

Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas

Although the Petronas Towers are taller, the 421m Menara KL, rising from the crest of Bukit Nanas, offers the best city views. The bulb at the top…

Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad

This graceful, onion-domed mosque, designed by British architect AB Hubback, borrows Mogul and Moorish styles with its brick-and-plaster banded minarets…

Thean Hou Temple

Lake Gardens, Brickfields & Bangsar

Sitting atop leafy Robson Heights, this vividly decorated multistorey Chinese temple, dedicated to Thean Hou, the heavenly queen, affords wonderful views…

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Inhabiting a building that's nearly as impressive as its collection, this museum showcases Islamic decorative arts from around the globe. Scale models of…

Lake Gardens – Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park

This 70-hectare lush, beautifully landscaped park is most commonly known by its colonial-era moniker: the Lake Gardens (Tasik Perdana in Malay). This is…

Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

Kuala Lumpur's oldest Chinese temple (1864) was built on the instructions of Kapitan Yap Ah Loy and is dedicated to Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya, two Chinese…

National Visual Arts Gallery

Kuala Lumpur

The artworks on display at the NVAG are worth a trip out of central KL for their inventiveness and sheer scale. In rotating exhibitions by regional…

Petronas Towers

Resembling twin silver rockets, the Petronas Towers are the perfect allegory for the meteoric rise of the city from tin-mining shanty town to 21st-century…

Merdeka Square

The huge open square, where Malaysian independence was declared in 1957, is speared by a 95m flagpole, one of the world's tallest. In the British era, the…

At the heart of the mammoth KLCC development, this excellent park offers a 1.3km soft-surface jogging track, a great children's playground and paddling…

Housed in a 60-storey tower designed by British architects Foster and Partners, this impressive art gallery presents exhibitions spanning various media…

KL Forest Eco Park

KL's urban roar is replaced by buzzing insects and cackling birdlife at this forest of tropical hardwoods, covering 9.37 hectares in the heart of the city…

National Monument

On a palm-fringed plaza, with fine views of KL's skyscrapers, stands this bombastic monument. Commemorating military sacrifices in the name of Malaysian…

Me.Reka Makerspace

Search out this innovative project space, where various contemporary design and technology skills are taught and can be practised. Laser engravers, 3D…

The first stages of this 27-hectare park have opened in recent years, with the third and final stage originally due for completion some time in 2020. It…

Kebun-Kebun Bangsar

A community group led by local architect Ng Seksan has created this garden on an 8-acre linear strip of land reserved for the national electricity company…

Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Rising almost 23m above this lively Hindu temple is its gopuram, a tower decorated with colourful Hindu gods. Founded in 1873, making it one of the oldest…

Bazaar Baru Chow Kit

This daily wet market, serving the working class of Chow Kit, packs a heady, chaotic atmosphere. It sprawls across several blocks including new sheds, old…

KL Bird Park

More than 3000 birds flutter and soar through this 21-hectare aviary. Some 200 species of (mostly) Asian birds can be spotted here, from strutting…

Kampung Baru Gateway

A modern concrete and blue glass gateway marks the entry to this neighbourhood of traditional Malay wooden houses. Gazetted by the British in 1899,…

Galeri Prima

In an expansive double-storey building, this hidden gem promotes local art heavyweights and emerging names like Zarina Abdullah and Anassuwandi Ahmad. The…

Guandi Temple

Founded in 1886, this atmospheric temple offers photogenic high ceilings, red walls, tiled eaves and pointy gable ends. It's dedicated to Guandi, a…

Badan Warisan Malaysia

This heritage preservation society has its head office in a 1920s colonial bungalow. The building, once part of a neighbourhood of British officers'…

Sampan Boy Mural

Covering the side of a building and overlooking a parking lot, the subject of star Lithuanian street artist Ernest Zacharevic's first contribution to KL's…

Royal Museum

You can tour the first two floors of this grand mansion, originally built as a family home in 1928 by Chinese tin tycoon Chan Wing. From 1957 it served as…

Ruang Pemula

Pakhruddin Sulaiman and his wife, Fatimah, have been amassing one of Malaysia's top private art collections since around 1996, when they bought two major…

Stadium Merdeka

Built for the declaration of independence in 1957, this open-air stadium is where Malaysia’s first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, famously punched…

National Museum

This museum offers a good primer on Malaysia's history, from prehistoric to present day. The country's geological features and prehistory are tackled in…

Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman

This glorious wooden stilt house, which was once the family home of a village headman in Kedah, was built in stages between 1910 and the 1930s and later…

Old KL Train Station

One of KL's most distinctive colonial buildings, this grand 1910 train station (replaced as a transit hub by KL Sentral in 2001) was designed by British…

Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Seizing attention with its 41m clock tower, coppery domes and lacy arches, this was the first public building in Malaysia designed in the Mogul (or Indo…

Perdana Botanical Garden

Strolling around KL's oldest public park, established in the 1880s, you'll admire native and introduced flora, including 800 species of orchid, mahogany…

Masjid Jamek Kampung Baru

Founded in the late 1880s, this is Kampung Baru's principal mosque; it has been expanded and now sports a handsome gateway decorated with eye-catching…

National Textiles Museum

This excellent themed museum occupies an elegant Mogul-style building originally constructed for the railway works department. The lower floors cover the…

Free Tree Society

Set up to educate urbanites about gardens and plants, this NGO has given away over 21,000 trees since 2013. Its work is showcased at a lush compact garden…

Telekom Museum

Housed in the beautifully renovated former telephone exchange building, this interesting museum has creatively designed displays on the history of…

RUANG by Think City

The urban rejuvenation outfit Think City has taken over the elegant art deco OCBC building, originally designed in 1938 by British architect Arthur Oakley…

Tun Razak Exchange

Envisaged as KL's new financial district, this ambitious 70 acre, US$10 billion project has a multi-phased, 15-year development period. Its centrepiece is…

Bank Negara Malaysia Museum & Art Gallery

This well-designed complex of small museums focuses on banking, finance and money – yet is not dull in the least. Highlights include a collection of…

Orang Asli Craft Museum

Drop into this interesting museum to view the gallery of wood carvings and masks produced by the Mah Meri, who live along the south coast of Selangor and…

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Tourist Places in Kuala Lumpur

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Must Visit Places in Kuala Lumpur

Petronas twin towers.

Menara KL Tower

Giving tough competition to the Petronas is the Menara KL Tower, which stands high at 421 metres and offers spectacular views of the city from a height of 276 metres, which is much higher than the Petronas’ SkyBridge Viewpoint and it is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. The tower’s glistening spindle-like apex can be spotted from anywhere in KL and the Islamic and Persian style architecture is sure to leave you in awe! The tower boasts of the tallest freestanding revolving restaurant, an amphitheatre, cascading pools, fast-food places and gift shops that certainly make it a highlight among the places to visit in KL

Location: Jalan Puncak, Off Jalan P. Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Timings: 09:00 - 22:00 Click Here to Book:  KL Tower Tickets Planning for a trip to Malaysia? Checkout & Book:   Malaysia Trip Packages

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur is the place which never sleeps and is always filled with colors and bustles all the time - Chinatown of Kuala Lumpur. If ever visiting Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown must definitely be in your ‘to-visit’ list, especially if you are a true bargain hunter, as it is also famously known as the ‘Bargain Hunter’s Paradise.’

You can find everything here, from the Chinese herbs to the imitation goods. Especially at night, the place is a shopper's’ paradise and turns into a lively and vibrant night market.

Location : The Chinatown is located on the Petaling Street, also known as ‘Chee Cheong Kai (Starch Factory Street.)

A 272-step long trek leads you to this century-old temple in limestone which is probably one of the most popular tourist spots in Kuala Lumpur. There are three big caves and numerous smaller ones here, with idols and statues erected inside. Amongst them, the Cathedral Cave is most frequented for its archaic 100m high arched ceiling and several Hindu shrines within. The others are the Art Gallery Cave and Museum Cave, with statues as well as ancient paintings to admire. Timings : 06:00 - 21:00 Location : Batu Caves, Sri Subramaniam Temple, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Click Here to Book:  Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves Day Tour   or Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur Recommended Read:  Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Set in the Merdeka Square of KL, Sultan Abdul Samad Building was built in 1897, in early Moorish-style architecture. Constructed entirely in brick, the historic landmark was named after the ruling sultan in that era, and was once home to the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture and is one of the popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. It continues to remain a major tourist attraction for the gothic and western influences that are visible in the design style. The 41m high clock tower is what people admire the most at this point. Location: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 24 hours Explore & Checkout:  Theme Parks in Kuala Lumpur

SuperPark Malaysia

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

With an amusement park and a water park, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park in Petaling Jaya offers a host of activities. It has primarily 5 zones which are the Amusement Park, the Water Park, the Wildlife Park, the Extreme Park, and the Scream Park. These comprise water slides, a surf beach, a manmade river ride, a pirate ship and an extensive list of other rides that’ll get you all geared up for some fun! There are also live shows, animal exhibits, great dining options and souvenir shops to stop by. It comes as no surprise then that this is a favourite among tourists, both young and old. Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya Timings:  10:00 - 18:00 Click Here to Book:   Sunway Lagoon Tickets Also Read:  Places to Visit in Malaysia

Jalan Alor is like the hidden gem of Kuala Lumpur, quite literally. Tucked away amidst the bustling streets of the city, the spot is famous for the street food which is a favourite among the locals. In contrast to the high-end pubs and restaurants around, Jalan Alor serves up some wonderful seafood and meat delicacies which are cheap yet lip-smacking. Watch out for the fluorescent sign-boards and Chinese lanterns, to know when you’ve reached this point, and make sure you add it to your list of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, so that you don’t miss out on eating as the locals do. Location: Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur (behind Jalan Bukit Bintang) Timings: 24 hours Also Checkout & Book:   Malaysia Honeymoon Tour Packages

Aquaria KLCC

One of the top Kuala Lumpur tourist places is Aquaria which is said to be one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia. It is home to over 150 species and 5000 various kinds of marine life. Some of the most favourite attractions here are the tiger sharks, seahorses, the sea snakes, the bright coral fish, the Amazon Basin and the coral reefs. You can also keep a lookout for the fish-feeding activities here. This attraction is ideal for all ages, so come, Dive-in! Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Complex, Kuala Lumpur City Centre Timings: Daily 10:00 - 20:00 Don't forget to check out: Aquaria KLCC Ticket Price Must Check:  Spas in Kuala Lumpur

Kl Tower Mini Zoo

Central Market

Built way back in 1918, the Central Market started off as a wet market but is now revamped into a handicrafts centre that showcases the fine artisanal works of the local artisans and weavers. and it is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lampur. The vibrant boutiques and souvenir stalls offer local merchandise while the floor above offers a whole range of local cuisine at the food court. You’re sure to find some exquisite batik, silverware, baroque pearls, antiques and intricately handcrafted items, here. Make sure you head here for some delightful gifts and mementoes to bring back from your trip! Location: No. 10, 1st-3rd floor, Jalan Hang Kasturi Timings:  10:00 – 22:00 Suggested Read:   Best Malaysia Theme Parks

Best of Singapore

Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary

In the small village of Lanchang, you will find an elephant sanctuary named Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary. This place proves to be a great visit for kids and parents too. Many orphaned elephants were raised here and provided with shelter and it is one of the famous attractions in Kulala Lumpur. Since the last 25 years, the staff at the sanctuary is doing their best to relocate wild elephants back into their natural habitat, and they have succeeded in getting 400 elephants back home. This is one of the best places to come face to face with an elephant and also become more aware of animal conservation. Location: 28500 Lanchang, Pahang, Malaysia Timings: 10:00 - 16:30 Click Here to Book:  Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary Package

Illusion 3D Art Museum

Perdana Botanical Gardens

Your trip to Kuala Lumpur is incomplete without visiting this gorgeous destination. The Perdana Botanical Garden are especially famous for the Orchid Gardens which sprawls across 10,000 square metres and houses 800 varieties of orchids, man-made fountains, rock gardens and rustic walking paths. The Hibiscus Garden too is frequented, for Malaysia’s national flower that grows in abundance here.The best time to pay this attraction a visit is on the weekends when the area is bustling with tourists, engaging themselves in various activities, which sets the mood for an enjoyable day. You can also enjoy some light snacks at the cafes here. Location: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur Timings:  07:00 – 20:00 Entry fees:  Adult : RM 15 , INR 250                     Child : RM 10 , INR 165 Must Know:  Things to do in Malaysia

City Centre

Right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur is the KLCC which is an ideal spot for entertainment, attractions, dining and absorbing the rich Malay culture. The area is home to some of the most popular tourist spots of the city and is often referred to as ‘a city within a city’, for all that it offers. There’s plenty to look forward to here; shopping, nightlife, modern commercial structures to admire, arts and culture, and a myriad of options that make it one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Location:   Kuala lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 24 hours Recommended Read:   Places For Hiking in Malaysia

Designed to add a hint of lush greenery around the Petronas Towers, the 50-acre KLCC Park soon became a tourist attraction for the manmade Lake Symphony that lies within. Once here, you can gaze at the water fountains that showcase unique water shows regularly. Apart from this there are reflecting pools, waterfalls, over 1900 indigenous trees, a long walking track, a children’s playground and sculptures to look forward to. Definitely a great attraction for you and your loved ones! Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Complex, Kuala Lumpur City Centre Timings:  10:00 - 20:00 Must Experience:  River Rafting in Kuala Lumpur

Dataran Merdeka

Set in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka Square is a giant field with dense green lawns and the Malaysian Flag hoisted high right in the centre and it is one of the famous places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. The Merdeka Square was once famous for being the Selangor Club cricket pitch, and went on to become the venue for the annual Merdeka Parade. Location: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 24 hours Suggested Read:  Historical Places in Malaysia

Petrosains, The Discovery Centre

This 7000m interactive science discovery centre in Petronas Towers is a sheer delight for everyone, kids and adults alike. Dedicated to the field of petroleum science, the centre has 11 interactive showcases, each one more enjoyable than the other. There are exciting rides, a mini theatre showcasing 3D films, an inventor’s section, a mini-village with exhibits on petrochemicals, shadow play, a singing dinosaur and a music and art zone. Sounds fun, doesn’t it?! Location: Level 4, Suria KLCC, PETRONAS Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur City Centre Timings: Tuesday - Friday 09:30 - 17:30, Saturday & Sunday 09:30 - 18:30 Entry fees:   Adult: RM 29.70 , INR 495                     Child (3-12 years): RM 17.50 , INR 292                     Senior Citizen (61 years and above): RM14.80 , INR 245

Taman Burung

Located in the serene Lake Gardens, Taman Burung is home to 3000 local and foreign birds, spread over an area of 21 acres of lush terrain. What's special about the park is how most of the birds are allowed to move freely in their natural habitat and aren’t caged, so tourists too feel the natural forest vibe as they walk down narrow paths with birds fluttering amidst them and  it is one  of the popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Tamang Burung is credited for being the largest free-flight, walk-in aviary in the world, which makes it a highlight among places to visit in KL. Location: KL Bird Park, 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: Daily 9:00 to 18:00 Entry fees:  Adult: RM 63 , INR 1050                    Child: RM 42 , INR 700 Must Checkout:  Best Water Parks in Kuala Lumpur

National Mosque of Malaysia

Known to be one of the most popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, an architectural marvel, the National Mosque is spread across 13 acres and has a main prayer hall with 48 mini domes around it. The hall’s walls are intricately decorated with verses from the Quran and can accommodate up to 15,000 people at a time.The main dome has 18-points representing Malaysia’s 13-states and the five pillars of Islam, and can accommodate up to 8000 devotees. The highlight though is the 73m-high minaret, the beautiful gardens, marble pools, fountains and the vivid tiles that brighten up the structure. Location: Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin Timings: Saturday – Thursday 09:00 – 23:00, Friday 02:45 – 18:00 Also Checkout and Book:  Best Snorkeling Tours in Malaysia

Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur with Family

Pavilion kl.

Looking for shopping paradise? We’ve found it right here! Pavilion KL is divided into a retail mall, an office complex and two residential areas, all spread wide over 1.37 million sq ft designed in milky white marble. It offers a host of indoor and outdoor shopping options, ranging from cheap to reasonably priced, to luxury brands. Apart from the 450 stores that you’re sure to fall in love with, there are hip dining options, a Crystal Fountain that works as a wishing well, a karaoke bar and the 13-screen Golden Screen Cinemas where you can catch an enjoyable film with your friends and family.  Location: 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Timings:  10:00 – 22:00 Must Experience:  Hiking in Kuala Lumpur  

Sri Mahamariamman Temple

The extravagant temple of Sri Mahamariamman is designed with Spanish and Italian tiles that stand out amidst the usual Hindu temples designed in stone. Precious stones and gold also make up a lot of the decorative elements in this temple and it is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. While the noise outside is incessant, the temple has a sense of tranquillity where the air is filled with incense and floral fragrances and the floors and walls are cool. You’ll find here 228 Hindu idols and hand-painted motifs depicting Hindu folklore. Location: 163, Jalan Tun H. S. Lee, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Daily 06:00 – 21:00 Suggested For You:  Theme parks in Malaysia

Best of Malaysia

Petaling Street Market

If you’re looking for a cheap shopping spot, look no further. Petaling Street is a vibrant night market that is one of the best places to see in Kuala Lumpur to satisfy all your shopping needs. From the smallest personal items to the biggest household ones, you’re sure to find everything here. Be aware that most of these might be fake products, but if you don’t mind that you’re in for a real treat.Moreover, these shops run till the wee hours of the morning, so you can probably head there at any time of the day, or night. There's a whole lot of street food too, the aroma of which wafts through the air and beckons while you shop nearby. Make sure to stop by for a bit or two. Location: Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings:  10:00 - 21:00

An impressive 6-storey building located at the foot of the Petronas Towers, this mall is famous for its haute couture stores like Chanel, Emporio Armani, Fendi, Coach, Fred Perry and a lot more. It also has some must-visit attractions like Petrosains Aquaria KLCC, a science discovery centre for kids and an oceanarium. 

The mall also houses Dewan Filharmonic Orchestra, Malaysia’s first concert hall and the Petronas Art Gallery. It is also home to a Cold storage Market and a 12-screen movie theatre as well. The Signatures food court here has a lot of variety of outlets which will make you go around in circles for the vast choices on offer. You can roam around in the mall from 10 am in the morning to 10 pm at night. Location: Jalan Ampang, Golden Triangle, Kuala Lumpur city centre, 50088 Timings:  10:00 – 22:00 Checkout & Book:  Malaysia Honeymoon Packages

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

One of the most popular attractions of Kuala Lumpur, the Islamic Arts Museum is Southeast Asia’s largest museum depicting Islamic Art. Here, you’re sure to find pieces and decorative elements from all over the world, boasting of fine Islamic culture. The building too, is artistic, with a huge blue turquoise dome, glass walls, ceilings with intricate patterns and a 30,000sq. m. exhibition centre. There are over 7000 artefacts which are divided into 12 themes, namely Architecture, Quran & Manuscripts, India, China, Malay World, Jewellery, Textiles, Arms and Armour, Coins and Seals, Metalwork, Ceramics and Living Location: Jalan Lembah Perdana, Kuala Lumpur Timings:  10:00 – 18:00 Entry fees:  Adults: RM 14 , INR 233                    Students and Senior Citizens: RM 7 , INR 116                    Children (6 and under): Free

One of the largest temples in Southeast Asia, Theon Hou is an ancient temple which is also a popular tourist attraction. This six-tiered Buddhist place of worship is also called the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven. The statue of Theon Hou is placed between the Goddess of the Waterfront and the Goddess of Mercy. Within the temple is a huge octagonal hall and a modern Buddhist pagoda, with a pleasing view of the city. Location: 65 Persiaran Endah, Off Jalan Syed Putra, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan 50460 Timings:  09:00 - 18:00 Also Checkout:   Best Adventure Sports in Malaysia

Jamek Mosque

Among the noteworthy places to visit in KL with your family is the Jamek Mosque which is the oldest place of worship in KL. It offers a breathtaking view of the Klang River lying beyond it and the Mughal and Moorish architectural style too are worth laying your eyes on. Surrounding the main prayer hall are three domes and two brick minarets and it is one of the famous places to see in Kuala Lumpur. There is also an Islamic Experience Centre outside the mosque which is worth a visit if you are keen on learning a thing or two about Islamic culture. Location: Off Jalan Tun Perak, Kuala Lumpur City Centre Timings: Saturday – Thursday 08:30 – 12:30 & 14:30 – 16:30 Also Explore:  Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur For Couples

National Monument

This 15m high bronze statue is a tribute to those who died fighting World War I. There's a beautiful structure of seven soldiers supporting the fallen brave hearts, which is a noteworthy moment in their history. Each of the seven soldiers depicts a quality of strength, sacrifice, suffering, courage, leadership, vigilance and unity. Surrounding the National Monument are fountains and lilies, and next to it is the ASEAN Sculpture Garden, which houses abstract art pieces made of wood, marble and bamboo by neighbouring ASEAN countries. Location: Jalan Tamingsabi Address: Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur 50480 Malaysia Timings: 07:00 – 18:00 Must Explore & Checkout:  Best Water Parks in Kuala Lumpur

City Gallery

Providing tourist information is what lists KLCG among the important places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Here you’ll find miniatures of famous landmarks in the city and paintings and photos steeped in KL’s history. The walls adorned with timeless tales that voice KL’s history are especially what catches the eye when you enter. Make sure you check out the gift-store before heading out of the centre. Some of the best batik products and hand woven items can be found here at cheap prices. Location: 27, Jalan Raja, Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur Timings:  08:00 – 18:00 Entry fees: RM 10, INR 170 Click Here to Book:   Wet World Water Park Shah Alam

KL Upside Down House

Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur with Kids

Bukit gambang water park.

Known to be awarded the Best Large Waterpark back in 2011, the Bukit Gambang Water Park is the only wave pool in Malaysia with 8 different wave modes. There’s the Penguin Island which children are sure to love, families together can enjoy at the Lazy River or take a ride on the longest Family Raft. This water park has something for everyone! Another special offering here is the e-system which adds cash to your entry band, so you don’t have to carry any money around for fear of losing it. Now that’s something adults shall surely like! Location: Utama, Bukit Resort City,, Jln Bukit Gambang Resort, 26300 Gambang, Pahang, Malaysia Timings:  Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 11:00am – 18:00pm                 Friday – Sunday, School and Public Holidays: 10:00am – 18:00pm                 Closed on Tuesday except during School and Public Holidays You can also check out  Langkawi Water Sports

Farm In The City

99 Wonderland Park

Best of Bali

KL Bird Park

Crowned as the world’s largest covered bird park with an area of approx 20.9 acres, KL Bird Park is home to more than 200 species of foreign and local birds. Some of these include flamingos, hornbills, hawk eagles, 20 different species of parrots and many other birds. KL Bird Park is located in the peaceful Perdana Botanical Gardens, which is a 10-minute walk from the city centre and it is one of the best places to see in Kuala Lumpur.

The park is divided into 4 zones, where Zone 1 and 2 are for the birds to fly free, zone 3 is the Hornbill zone and zone 4 comprises of birds in different cages aviaries. There are even bird shows and feeding sessions within the time frame of 9 am to 6 pm. Location: 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Taman Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur Timings:  09:00 – 18:00 You can also check out: Wildlife Park Langkawi Price

Butterfly Park

Who doesn’t enjoy brilliantly coloured butterflies flapping away all around? Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is where you’ll find more than 6000 types of butterflies among lots of dense greenery, colourful flowers, cascading waterfalls and ponds and it is one of the famous tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur. You will also spot some lovely Koi fish and freshwater turtles, so keep an eye out for them. It is no wonder then that this is a favourite among Kuala Lumpur tourist places. Location: Jalan Cenderasari, Taman Tasik Perdana (Lake Gardens) Timings: Daily 09:00 – 18:00 Entry fees: Adults: RM 22, INR 367                    Children (2 – 11 years): RM 11, INR 185 Popular Read:   Things to Do in Malaysia with Kids

Reward your kids with the experience of a lifetime by visiting Kidzania that is a small city with over sixty establishments, and around a hundred role-play activities for the kids aged between four to six years. This is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur that helps the kids engage in fun edutainment activities under the supervision of the adults. It also offers the adults the parents lounge where they can relax, rest, and enjoy coffee. Location: 18 Jalan PJU 7/5, Mutiara Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Timing: 10:00 am - 05:00 pm. Entry Charges: - 1-1 Free - 2-3 years- RM 46 - 4-17 years- RM 95 - 18-59 years-RM 50 - 60 years and above- RM 38.

I-City Theme Park

This stunning theme park is known for its exciting rides and unique museums, along with LED attractions that are sure to leave you delighted! An hour away from KL, this theme park has 3D and wax museums, a water park, fun activities, and most importantly, the biggest snow park in Malaysia. You can win soft toys at the gaming arcade and enjoy local and international cuisine at the food stalls. At sunset, the artificial flora and fauna here are illuminated with hundreds of LED lights that are definitely worth a watch. Location: D-9-1, Jalan Multimedia, 7/AJ City Park, i-City, Shah Alam Timings: Monday – Thursday 11:00 – 00:00, Friday – Sunday 11:00 – 01:00 Suggested Read:  Hidden Gems in Malaysia

This is a renowned aquarium and zoological park in Kuala Lumpur that is dedicated to conserving, training, and researching about the various plant and animal species. It spans around one hundred fifteen acres and has 476 species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians. This one thirty million years old forest is home to exotic varieties of flora and fauna, making it one of the best Kuala Lumpur tourist places.  You can also enjoy trekking, boat ride, fishing, and wildlife viewing over here. Location: Between Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu. Timing: 09:00 to 17:30. Entry fees: - RM 1, INR 17 - RM 10 (INR 165) to obtain a fishing license. You can also check out  Zoo Negara Ticket Price here.

KL Forest Eco Park

Earlier known as the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, the KL Forest Eco Park is among the most popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.. It is one of the oldest forest reserves and is now the only tropical rainforest left in KLCC, sprawling across 1,10,000 sq.m.

Location: Bukit Nanas, Jalan Puncak, Off Jalan P. Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur

Timings: Daily 07:00 – 18:00

Entry fees: Free

District 21

The perfect place for enjoyment, for all ages, District 21 is an obstacle course theme park which is an absolute must when in KL! Set in a post-apocalyptic world, visitors have to pass through a series of challenges using ropes, platforms and chains. There are high-speed slides and trampolines, and 11 obstacles to get through with varying levels of difficulty. Sure to be a great deal of fun for the entire family!. Location: IOI City Mall, Putrajaya, Selangor Timings: Monday – Friday 12:00 - 20:00, Saturday & Sunday 10:00 – 20:00 Entry fees:  Weekdays: RM 58, INR 970                     Weekends: RM 76, INR 1270 Also Checkout:  Indoor Activities In KL

National Science Centre

Among the educational places to visit in Kuala Lumpur is the National Science Centre which is absolute fun for kids who love science. The exhibits cover a gamut of scientific theories and it is one of the best places to see  in Kuala Lumpur. You are first greeted by the overhead freshwater aquarium and you then proceed to the exhibits. Make sure you wait back for the science show, beamed straight into the main dome. Location: Pesiaran Bukit Kiara, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur Timings: 09:00 – 17:00 (closed on Friday) Entry fees:  Adults: RM 6, INR 100                    Child (6-12): RM 3, INR 50

Berjaya Times Squares Theme Park

The largest indoor theme park in Malaysia, Berjaya Times Square Theme Park finds its home in Berjaya Times Square Hotel, one of the biggest shopping malls in the country. The park has an adult zone called the Galaxy Station and the kids area called the Fantasy Garden. The rides, though exciting, are limited, but this is a great theme park for days of gloomy weather when you can’t explore the city. Or for times when you want to shop and let your kids enjoy their time too. Look out for the 800m long Supersonic Odyssey Roller Coaster here! Location: Level 5, Berjaya Times Square, No.1, Jalan Imbi, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Monday - Friday 12:00 – 22:00, Saturday & Sunday 11:00 – 22:00 Entry fees:  Adult RM 70, INR 1170                    Child (ages 3-12) RM 65, INR 1085                    Seniors (ages 55 and above) RM 30, INR 500

Book Now:  Australian Outback Spectacular Tickets

Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur at Night

Atmosphere 360.

If you’re looking for an amazing nightlife experience during your trip to Kuala Lumpur, then you must visit The Row that is home to numerous nightlife and dining spots. It was earlier known as Asian Heritage Row and has undergone a colossal refurbishment leading to the transformation of the shophouses into event spaces, stylish bistros, and restaurants. The cafes and restaurants here offer both local as well as European cuisines making it one of the best places in Kuala Lumpur for food lovers and night owls. It also has various live entertainment venues where you can attend musical shows as well as concerts. Location: Jalan Doraisamy, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. Timing: 09:00 to 00.00. Also Checkout:  Genting Highlands Day Tour

Best of Hanoi

One of the coolest places to see in Kuala Lumpur and be at is the Sky Bar. The glamorous cocktail lounge, located on the 33rd floor of the Traders Hotel is popular for its nightlife and exhilarating views of the city. Spin to the techno beats here while you sip on the divine concoctions that this venue is popular for and it is one of the popular tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur. You can visit this, especially on the weekdays when the bar plays soft beats and hosts Happy Hours, which are bound to make you truly happy! Location: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 – 01:00; Friday & Saturday 10:00 – 03:00 Timings: Level 33, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur City Centre You May Also Like To Book:   Generalife Tickets

Pisco Bar is one of the posh hotspot places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Located in Bukit Bintang, the pub sees a trendy crowd, especially partygoers who come by to enjoy the music performances and the delicious cocktails the bar serves. Eclectic decor coupled with some of the best DJs, make for a truly memorable, lively night! Pisco Bar is a perfect spot for social gatherings, fashion shows, product launches and move screenings. The unique tapas here attract a good amount of the crowd, as well. Location: 29, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Tuesday, Thursday & Sunday 17:00 – 01:00, Wednesday 17:00 – 02:00, Friday & Saturday 17:00 – 03:00

Book Now:   Buckingham Palace Tickets

Luna Bar Rooftop

What’s better than sitting atop the Pacific Regency Suites, on the 34th floor, with the cool breeze blowing against your face, while you sip on a chilled cocktail?! Luna Bar is the city’s most well-known nightclubs, making it a highlight among the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Along with a panoramic view of the city, the venue offers a swimming pool, a long bar, an alfresco lounge, and an indoor restaurant. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy some good music with some light-hearted conversation, this is the place to be! Location: Pacific Regency Hotel Suites, Menara Pan Global, Jalan Punchak, off Jalan P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Monday - Thursday & Sunday 11:00 - 01:00, Friday & Saturday 11:00 - 03:00 Entry fees: Cover charge of RM 50 (INR 835) after 11:30 PM on weekends. Explore More: Things to do in Langkawi                           Places To Visit In Seville

Cultural Palace

Called Istana Budaya, the Cultural Palace is Kuala Lumpur’s National Theatre. It is the country’s main venue for local and international plays and performances and is rated as the world’s top 10 most sophisticated theatres. Being the first theatre in Asia with state-of-the-art equipment, Istana Budaya’s eye-catching feature is the turquoise-blue tiled roof. The centre also hosts free live music and dance outside the front gate on Saturdays, while cheap food stalls are set-up in close proximity. Location: 58 Jalan Kuantan Titiwangsa, 53200 Kuala Lumpur Timings: 09:00AM – 09:00 PM Entry fees:  10 RM, INR 170

Bukit Bintang

One of the trendiest, tourist attractions in Kulala Lumpur, high-end shopping areas you’re sure to find in Kuala Lumpur is Bukit Bintang with an array of shopping centres, five-star hotels, nightclubs and entertainment spots to visit. The most popular shopping spot among tourists here is the Pavilion KL which caters to the luxury shoppers, with European brands like Versace, Dolce and Gabbana and many more. It is here that you will also find Jalan Alor, the stretch of restaurants to binge on some local delicacies, serving you till the wee hours. No matter what kind of luxurious opulence you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at Bukit Bintang. Location:   Behind Jalan Bukit Bintang Timings: 10:00 - 00:00 Am

Other Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur

Brickfields

Once a neighbourhood of Kuala Lumpur, Brickfields was soon labelled as Malaysia’s Little India and became one of the most popular places to visit in KL. You will find a wide variety of Indian stores and restaurants, run by Indians. The area welcomes you with loud Bollywood music being played by the shopkeepers as they sell everything from spices and sweets, to sarees and garlands. Gorge on Indian delicacies here, especially the South Indian fare served on banana leaves. Shops serve customers until late at night, so any time is a great time to go visit this vibrant area. Location: Jalan Travers to Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields Timings:  10:00 – 21:00

Titiwangsa Lake Garden

The Titiwangsa Lake Garden is a great place to relax at and enjoy some recreational activities with friends and family. You can go canoeing, aqua-biking, enjoy a sprint on the jogging tracks, go horse riding, and kids can play at the radio control car racing track which is immense fun! If you feel like doing nothing, grab some food and drinks sold near the lake, and sit by the lakeside enjoying your own little picnic. The park is in close proximity to the National Theatre and Art Gallery, so don’t forget to pay them a visit as well. Location: Tasik Titiwangsa,,53200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings:  10:00AM – 21:00PM

Connaught Market

Something to look forward to every Wednesday is the Connaught Night Market, which is among the very popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. With over 700 stalls along a 2km road, you’re sure to find anything and everything here. Shop for accessories, bags, clothing, books, handicrafts, food and household items, all at reasonable prices. Make sure to try out the Laksa and Satay here, as well as the creamy desserts. Also, be very careful with your personal belongings, because owing to the short duration of the market, it is extremely crowded, especially after 7:00 pm. Location: Jalan Cerdas, Taman Connaught, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Wednesday 17:30 – 00:00

Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

Built in 1864, the Sin Sze Si Ya Temple is the oldest Taoist temple in KL, which also serves as a cultural centre for the Chinese community residing there. It is thronged by devotees on important occasions and you will often find students here praying to Wenchang Dijun, who is the God of Education. You can seek blessings in the main prayer hall and light candles and incense sticks in the temple grounds. Location: 113A Jalan Tun HS Lee, 14A Leboh Pudu, Kuala Lumpur Timings:  07:00AM – 17:00PM

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Discover the allure of Genting Highlands, a captivating mountain resort city in Malaysia. Perched high above the clouds, this entertainment paradise offers an escape from the tropical heat with its cool climate and stunning views. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker at world-class theme parks, try your luck at renowned casinos, and indulge in shopping at premium outlets.Genting Highlands is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking excitement, luxury, and a diverse array of activities. Whether you're riding exhilarating roller coasters, enjoying live performances, or savoring a wide range of international cuisines, this highland retreat promises an unforgettable experience for families and adventurers alike. Come and immerse yourself in the magic of Genting Highlands, where fun, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery await.

Explore the profound Tugu Negara, Malaysia's National Monument in Kuala Lumpur. Honor the courageous soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence. Uncover the historical significance and emotional depth of this iconic landmark, which serves as a powerful reminder of Malaysia's struggle for freedom and sovereignty. Tugu Negara stands as a symbol of national pride, embodying the unity and resilience of the Malaysian people.A visit to Tugu Negara promises a moving experience, where you can pay your respects, reflect on history, and witness the solemnity of the monument. Whether you're admiring the heroic statues, observing the symbolic elements, or simply feeling the weight of its significance, Tugu Negara invites you to connect with Malaysia's past and embrace the spirit of patriotism and gratitude.

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30 Best Places to Visit in KL (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia

• by Una Baufala
• Best Things to Do , Malaysia
• 31/03/2018 19/11/2019
• 21 min read

This article may contain compensated links. Learn more in our disclaimer .

[dropcap]O[/dropcap]k, but what to do in Kuala Lumpur? People have asked us this question quite a few times. In 2014 we came to KL for the first time. And in the last 4 years alone we have been to this city more than 10 times, for about 3 months in total. Twice we spent about a month in Kuala Lumpur at a time. And I’m sure we will return. So, I guess, I’ll not surprise you anymore saying that Kuala Lumpur is one of our favorite cities in the world .

As I know the city so well, I decided to write this article to share with you the 30 best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur . The list contains historical and religious sites, Kuala Lumpur tourist spots, museums and parks, shopping areas and malls, as well as some of the best places for local food.

At the end of this article you’ll also find a simple  One Day in Kuala Lumpur itinerary . But here is a list of some of the best affordable hotels in Kuala Lumpur . And here are best hotels in Kuala Lumpur for amazing views .

Book your tickets online:

Table of Contents

What to Do in Kuala Lumpur?

Before we start with the list of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, here is one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur. One tip for everyone traveling to Kuala Lumpur .

Rent an Apartment With A Great View in Kuala Lumpur

The choice of rooms and apartments with a great view in Kuala Lumpur is very big.

But prices are rather low.

For example, this is the view we had from our pool, when staying in the Face Suites, a codominium just a short walk away from the world-famous Petronas towers. A modern and very well furnished two-bedroom apartment cost us around 70 EUR / 85 USD per night. Rooms booked on Airbnb in the same building start from as low as 20 EUR / 24 USD a night.

The best part is that everyone gets an access to their AWESOME rooftop infinity pool.

Book a room or an apartment: Booking.com , Agoda.com .

Airbnb (apartment, where we have stayed): Airbnb.com .

If you are new to Airbnb, register using our link and you (same like us) will get a discount for your next booking. Click here  to check it out.

[x_blockquote type=”left”] RELATED:   10 Best Affordable Hotels in Kuala Lumpur  [/x_blockquote]

30 Best Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur – Places to Visit in KL

1. batu caves.

One of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India. And also one of the best places to visit in KL.

Places in this list are in no particular order. But a visit to Batu Caves clearly is among top 10 things to do in Kuala Lumpur, if you want to see something more than shiny skyscrapers.

Batu caves is a series of caves and Hindu temples on a limestone hill, and the whole temple complex is dedicated to Lord Murugan. There is a large golden Murugan statue outside the temple complex. The height of the statue is 42,7 m (140 ft), and it is the world’s tallest Murugan statue.

When visiting Batu Caves, beware of the sneaky monkeys! Keep your belongings in your bag and do not carry food or flashy and colorful things (like, sunglasses) which can attract monkeys. Several times I’ve seen monkeys grabbing and stealing stuff from people. Also hold your electronics tightly, as they can try to take them, too.

If you are two or more people traveling together take Grab taxi instead of train. It will cost you the same or less, and it’s gonna be more comfortable.

2. Petronas Twin Towers

Petronas Twin Towers probably are the most popular landmark of Malaysia, and definitely one of the top places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

They were the world’s tallest buildings until year 2004. They still remain the tallest twin towers in the world. Even though I have seen them many times for me they are still one of the top 3 places to go in Kuala Lumpur. Every time I’m in the city.

The height of Petronas Towers is 451.9 m (1483 ft), floor count – 88 (+5 below ground). The towers are connected by a bridge (Skybridge) on the 41st and 42nd floors. The bridge is open to public, and you can get a ticket for a mere 85 RM (about 20 USD / 18 EUR). As it is a very popular tourist attraction I suggest that you buy the tickets at least a few days in advance. Once we wanted to buy a ticket only a day in advance, and there weren’t any available.

You can buy them online on Petronas Twin Tower homepage .

[x_blockquote type=”left”] TRAVEL INSURANCE: For travelers to Malaysia we recommend  World Nomads Explorer Package!  [/x_blockquote]

3. KLCC Park

KLCC Park had been built with a purpose to make Petronas Twin Towers area greener.

And they have succeeded – in the midst of glass and concrete jungle there is a nice green park with a man made lake – Lake Symphony , where every evening visitors can enjoy light and fountain show.

On weekdays light and fountain show is from 6 PM till 11 PM. On holidays and weekends – until midnight. The fountains are on also during the days. Weekdays – 12:00 until 2 PM; weekends – from 10 until the sunset when the light show starts.

In addition to Lake Symphony there are pedestrian (running, bicycle) trails, benches, a shallow pool with fountains for children and a playground.

In the photo above you can see that during Christmas there was a big Christams tree.

Overall it’s a very nice place to visit in KL.

4. KLCC Aquaria

KLCC Aquaria is one of the largest and most popular oceanarium in Asia.

It is located beneath KLCC (Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre), and its area is 5600 square meters. Oceanarium has two levels and a 90 meter-long underwater tunnel where various spectacular sea creatures can be spotted.

Not only you can look at the sea creatures but you can pet them as well! Yes, touch! There are several “petting pools” where you can hold starfish and pet leopard sharks. It might sound cruel but by the look of it fish do like it (well, I couldn’t tell if the starfish liked it).

5. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

KL Bird Park is considered the world’s largest walk-in aviary.

However, the name is a bit deceptive. As not all the birds are wandering and flying around freely. A lot of them are in the cages and enclosures. Anyway it’s clearly amonh the most interesting places in Kuala Lumpur if you are into wildlife.

The park is big (20.9 acres / 8.5 ha), so dedicate at least a couple of hours for a visit.  Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is located adjacent to the Lake Gardens. So, after a visit to Bird Park, wander around Lake Gardens (see below), which house a butterfly park (see below) and an orchid garden as well.

The Bird Park houses more than 3000 birds representing more than 200 species. Most of the birds are local. The Bird Park is definitely among the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

6. Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

KL Butterfly Park is a public butterfly zoo, located very close to the bird park, on Perdana Botanical Garden’s premises.

So, you can visit it on the same day. Entry fee isn’t high – only 25 RM (about 6 USD / 5,3 EUR).

The area of the butterfly garden is large – 7432,2 square meters (1,8 acres). The park is home for more than 5000 butterflies, many them are local species, including Rajah Brooke’s birdwing, the national butterfly of Malaysia!

7. Perdana Botanical Garden (Lake Gardens)

Lake Gardens is a large 227-acre park located quite close to the central part of Kuala Lumpur.

It is the first large-sized recreational park in Malaysia, and it was established in 1888.

As I mentioned before, KL Bird Park and Butterfly Park is located on its premises. Lake Gardens is a great place where to relax after a tiring walk around the glass and concrete jungle – the city center of Kuala Lumpur.

8. Thean Hou Temple

Thean Hou Temple is an imposing temple with elements of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism,  dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu.

The temple was built by Hainanese living in Malaysia, and opened to the public in September 1989.

On the premises of the temple a visitor will find a tortoise pond, Chinese medicinal herbs garden and statues of 12 animals of Chinese astrology.

9.  Masjid Jamek (Jamek mosque)

Jamek Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur.

The mosque is built in a rather unusual place – at the confluence of Gombak and Klang rivers. Masjid Jamek is the first large mosque to be built in Kuala Lumpur.

The design is similar to the one of Kuala Lumpur railway station’s. Both buildings were designed by Arthur Benison Hubback – a British architect and soldier.

10. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

KL Railway station was the main railway station before Kuala Lumpur Sentral railway station was opened on 2001.

Even though KL Sentral railway station is the biggest railway station in Malaysia from the outside it is not impressive at all. It looks like a shopping mall. Old Kuala Lumpur railway station, on the contrary – is a very impressive building. It looks like a pretty castle!

As I mentioned above it was designed by a British architect, in similar style to one of the most popular mosques in Kuala Lumpur – Masjid Jamek.

Remember, that currently only three trains are stopping at this station. It’s definitely not a railway hub any more.

11. Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL)

KL Tower often is listed among the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

It is also one of the most popular landmarks in Malaysia as well.

Head to KL Tower if you want to see a spectacular view of the city! The view from the tower is more impressive than one from Petronas towers, as the viewing platform is located higher (170 m vs. 276 m!). And it is cheaper to get there as well! The ticket costs 52 RM (about 12 USD / 11 EUR).

There is a revolving restaurant located on a viewing deck – Atmosphere 360. It is the highest restaurant in the city! If you plan to dine there, take into an account, that it takes more than an hour for the restaurant to do a full circle.

For 105 RM (about 26 USD / 23 EUR) you can get even higher – to Sky Deck at 421 m.

12. Chinatown

Chinatown is a good place for shopping and trying out various street food.

The main shopping street is Jalan Petaling . There you will find countless stalls selling knock-off accessories, bags, clothes, shoes and electronics. As Chinatown is regarded as one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and it indeed is a popular tourist spot, in most stalls prices are higher than usual. If you think you are good at it, try to haggle!

A lot of hostels and budget guesthouses are located in Chinatown and around it.

I suggest you to visit not only Jalan Petaling but also other streets around it. You’ll see a lot of traditional Chinese shops and eateries.

13. Bukit Bintang

Bukit Bintang is a good place for eating out.

Of course, you’ll see a lot of Chinese, Malay and Indian eateries and restaurants. But not only those. There are quite a few Arabic, Moroccan and Iranian restaurants and street food stalls. We always head to Bukit Bintang when we want to eat Shawarma (chicken, lamb, beef, etc, meat shavings and vegetables in a pita bread). Mmmmm!

Jalan Alor is the main food-street of Bukit Bintang, and it is often listed as one of the top places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Jalan Alor is one of the most famous street food areas that both locals and tourists love to visit. A lot of hawker stalls and numerous sea food restaurants are located there.

A couple of large malls and a lot of different shops and boutiques can be found in the area of Bukit Bintang, too.

Bukit Bintang is one of those places to visit in Kuala Lumpur at night. As this part of the city almost never sleeps.

14. Little India

Little India is another great place for shopping and trying various Indian food.

Visit Little India if you want to buy Indian goods and produce, and / or try some good Indian food!

15. Sunway Lagoon

Sunway Lagoon is one of the largest and most popular theme parks in Southeast Asia!

Its area is 356 123 square meters (88 acres), and the park has 90 attractions spread around six zones: Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon, Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Scream Park and Extreme Park.

Interesting fact – one of the largest man-made surf beaches is located in Sunway Lagoon theme park !

16. Low Yat Plaza

Low Yat Plaza is a large mall specializing in electronics and IT products.

It’s the largest IT shopping mall in Malaysia, and it is regarded as the most comprehensive one in whole Kuala Lumpur.

There are 7 floors, and around 350 stores. If you are a fan of electronics definitely visit Low Yat Plaza even if you don’t need any new gadgets.

It is also a place where to go if you need a second hand gadget, such as a phone, a tablet or a laptop.

17. Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

Sin Sze Si Ya Temple is the oldest Taoist temple in Kuala Lumpur.

The temple is founded by Kapitan Yap Ah Loy, and dedicated to the deities Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya, who guided Kapitan Yap Ah Loy during the civil war. Very beautiful place.

The temple is located in Chinatown, near Petaling Street.

18. Central Market Kuala Lumpur (Pasar Seni Kuala Lumpur) 

Central Market used to be a wet market, but now it is one of the most popular tourist attractions and often is listed among the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

Now it is also a landmark for Malaysian culture and heritage.

The market’s original building was built in 1888 by the British, but in 1937 the current Art Deco style building was completed.

The market has two floors: ground floor with the stalls, and the first floor, which houses a food court. The stalls on the ground floor offer good quality textiles, paintings, souvenirs, sculptures and other handicrafts.

19. Medan Pasar 

Medan Pasar is a square near Chinatown.

It used to be a notorious neighborhood – it housed numerous gambling places and brothels. Of course, all of it is gone now, and nowadays it is just a nice square close to the city center.

In the middle of the square stands a small art deco clock tower.

20. KL City Gallery 

KL City Gallery is a museum and tourist information center. There you can get free Kuala Lumpur tourist map and free brochures about all the regions of Malaysia ( you can get them for free online as well). As well as all the necessary information about traveling in Malaysia.

For a small fee (10 RM, 2.5 EUR) you can see the exhibition and get to know more about the history of Kuala Lumpur. There you will see photos, scale models, paintings and more!

There is a big sign “I LOVE KL” in front of the building.

21. The Islamic Arts Museum

Regarded as one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, it’s located not far from the central part of KL, next to Perdana Botanical Gardens.

The museum has 12 main galleries, and it hosts various religious and historic artifacts, manuscripts, textile, ceramics, jewelry, arms and armor.

The Islamic Arts Museum is one of the most popular museums in Asia ( Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice ), too, and it is the largest museum of Islamic arts in South East Asia.

22. Sultan Abdul Samad building

Sultan Abdul Samad building is an imposing building located near KL city center and Masjid Jamek.

Its design is similar to the one of Masjid Jamek and Kuala Lumpur railway station. The style is Neo-Moorish, and it was not uncommon at that time.

23. Masjid India and Bazaar 

They are located very close to Masjid Jamek and Masjid Jamek LRT station. Masjid India is one of my favorite mosques in Kuala Lumpur. In my opinion, it has a rather unique design, and I like it very much.

Masjid India Bazaar is located beside the mosque. It is a large market, mostly for locals. Clothes, footwear, toys, souvenirs and different accessories are sold there. As it is not a very popular tourist destination the prices are fair and sellers – less aggressive. Head there if you want to have a peaceful shopping experience!

24. Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur.

As it is located in Chinatown, head there after exploring Chinatown’s streets and savoring its street food! Advise – don’t be shy, and walk in the temple as well! Hindu temples are amazingly colorful and interesting because of the countless statues of Hindu deities.

25. Local Night Markets

Head to one of these local night markets if you want to try local food, snacks and sweets: Sri Petaling (Tuesday), Taman Connaught Night Market (Wednesday), Plaza Mont’Kiara Fiesta Nite Market (Thursday), Kampung Baru Market (Sunday). I like to try local food and I love street food.

If you’re like me try and visit a night market, as it’s one of the best place to go in KL for local food.

When you are there definitely try some these foods:

• Nasi Lemak (fragrant rice cooked with spices, spicy sauce and fish / meat).
• Satay – skewered pieces of chicken / beef meat.
• Different types of noodles – biasa, Char Kway Teow, Mee Goreng.
• Murtabak – spicy omelet with vegetable and/ or minced beef, chicken, mutton meat filling.
• Fried bananas (there are different types).
• Banana and coconut sweets wrapped in banana leaves.
• Green pandan “pancake” rolls filled with shredded coconut.

Some clothes, footwear, toys, bags and other accessories are sold on the night markets as well. The prices are lower than in the touristic places.

When reading guides to Kuala Lumpur, you don’t see a suggestion to visit a night market too often. But, in my opinion, you should definitively go to at least one night market.

26. Chow Kit Market

Chow Kit Market is one of the best outdoor markets in Kuala Lumpur, and it is regarded as Kuala Lumpur’s largest wet market.

Fresh meat, fish (dried and fresh) and sea food, vegetables, fruits and spices are sold there. There is a dry section as well – with stalls offering clothes, shoes, various accessories, CDs and sweets – and street food stalls offering wide variety of local dishes.

The market is located near Kampung Baru, on  Tuanku Abdul Rahman street, and it is open daily, 06:00 – 17:00.

27. Suria KLCC

Suria KLCC is a large shopping mall below The Petronas Towers.

It has over 400 stores. Designer clothes and footwear, sportswear, electronics, cosmetics, food, banks, etc. – everything under one roof! Head there if you need serious (for quality goods) shopping to do!

My favorite bookstore is in Suria KLCC. Kinokuniya Book Store is a huge bookshop, and it makes it a paradise for bookworms and stationery-lovers! Head there and see for yourself!

28. Pavilion Mall

Pavilion Mall is a large mall situated in Bukit Bintang.

It has six different precincts: world’s major fashion label stores (many of them are flagship stores), Bintang Circle with an atrium, a food court, entertainment and sports area, beauty parlors and convenience and household stores.

Just like Suria KLCC – it is worth a quick visit even you don’t like shopping. It is fancy and its interior is pretty. There are several nice cafes and amazing ice cream stand. You don’t like shopping, right, but you will definitely enjoy eating, ha!

29. Masjid Negara (The National Mosque of Malaysia)

The National Mosque of Malaysia is a large mosque situated near Kuala Lumpur railway station.

Its design is bold and modern, and the mosque has an unusual umbrella-shaped roof.

30. National Museum (Muzium Negara)

National Museum is a great place to go to get an overview of Malaysian history and culture.

The museum houses four galleries where visitor can see traditional musical instruments, weapons, painting, ceramics, textiles and illustrations of different cultural events and festivals.

This museum is often listed among the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur in One Day

Yes, I understand – 30 is a big number – and you’ll need a whole vacation to visit all of the places mentioned above. And even then you’ll probably be in a rush.

But what to do if you have just one day in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia? Where to go and what to do in KL in this case?

Here is a simple plan.

• breakfast in one of the Suria KLCC food courts;
• stroll around the area of the Petronas Towers;
• taking a Grab to go to the KL Bird Park (2-3 hours there);
• a Grab ride either to Chinatown or Batu Caves;
• lunch there (if you are at Batu Caves go to one of Indian restaurants and have some dosa);
• visiting Batu Caves/wandering around Chinatown;
• Bukit Bintang (if you are at Batu Caves take the train instead of Grab and you’ll get a chance to see KL Railway station, from there you can take another train to Bukit Bintang);
• dinner at Bukit Bintang;
• fountain show at Lake Symphony, in KLCC Park just behind the Petronas Towers (there is a special pedestrian tunnel all they way from Pavilion Mall in Bukit Bintang to the Petronas Towers).

That’s it! I hope this will help you to make the most of your trip to Kuala Lumpur.

Heading to Langkawi Island Next?

Check out the list of the best things to do in Langkawi .

Do you have questions about traveling to Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia? Don’t hesitate to ask!

7 thoughts on “30 Best Places to Visit in KL (Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia”

Thank you Una for an amazing info.about malaysia. Im heading there next week and it was very helpful as a first time visitor to KL.

We are happy to hear that :) Have a good trip!

We are thinking about going to Malaysia for about 10 days. we wanna do kuala lumpa at least for 3 days. Do you have any ideas what we could do the rest of the time? Without going to far away from KL and without having to spend too much money?

Few options:

If you are into theme parks, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is very close to KL. A beautiful, historical city – Malacca – is about 150 kilometers away from KL (few hours on the bus and 3-5 EUR/USD). Penang is a good place, where to go, but it’s more like 6-hour bus ride away from KL, and costs some 10 EUR/USD. If you go to Penang, I would recommend to stay there for a night or two. Putrajaya is a newly built city, next to KL, where all the govermental institutions are located. It might be a good idea for a day trip from KL.

Langkawi island is a short and cheap (from 15 EUR/USD) flight away from KL, too.

You can easily visit Singapore as well. You can either take a night train/bus to Singapore and on the next evening take a bus or train back or you can spend a night or two there. Transportation is cheap. Again some 10 EUR/USD only, but it takes about 10 – 12 hours, including time spent at immigration check point. Flights from KL to Singapore start at 20 EUR/USD.

I’d like to know about hotel prices ranging from 2 star to 4 star

The choice is big, with prices startig at ~20 EUR / USD. Here are some good options https://wearefromlatvia.com/best-hotels-in-kuala-lumpur-malaysia/ .

If you’re looking for a cheap shopping spot, look no further. Petaling Street is a vibrant night market that is one of the best places to see in Kuala Lumpur to satisfy all your shopping needs. From the smallest personal items to the biggest household ones, you’re sure to find everything here. Be aware that most of these might be fake products, but if you don’t mind that you’re in for a real treat.Moreover, these shops run till the wee hours of the morning, so you can probably head there at any time of the day, or night. There’s a whole lot of street food too, the aroma of which wafts through the air and beckons while you shop nearby. Make sure to stop by for a bit or two.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Malaysia's capital and largest city has much to offer visitors, regardless of their interests. A cosmopolitan metropolis with a significant religious influence, Kuala Lumpur is filled with high-end shopping opportunities and plenty of exciting things to do and places to explore. For many people, it's a starting point for exploring Malaysia .

The famous Petronas Twin Towers are not the only marvel here, though they are certainly the city's most visited attraction. Kuala Lumpur's cultural diversity means there are also plenty of festivals to enjoy here, including the Thaipusam celebration, which includes a procession that walks all the way to the Batu Caves, another well-known tourist destination.

For more ideas on how to spend your time and things to do while visiting, see our list of top tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur.

1. Petronas Twin Towers

2. klcc park, 3. kuala lumpur bird park, 4. petaling street, 5. merdeka square, 6. sunway lagoon theme park, 7. kuala lumpur tower, 8. national museum, 9. central market, 10. kuala lumpur butterfly park, 11. batu caves, 12. bukit bintang shopping district, 13. royal palace istana negara, 14. wilayah mosque, 15. sri mahamariamman temple, 16. jalan alor, 17. titiwangsa lake garden, where to stay in kuala lumpur for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in kuala lumpur, kuala lumpur, malaysia - climate chart.

Kuala Lumpur's most recognizable landmark is its twin towers, built of reinforced concrete, steel, and glass. Once the tallest towers in the world, the twin skyscrapers remain the tallest twin buildings in the world . At 88 floors tall, the towers are not only Kuala Lumpur's most visible structure, but also a beautiful mix of postmodern style and Islamic art details.

The towers are connected by a sky bridge on the 41st and 42nd floors . While the sky bridge is a major tourist attraction, the main reason for its existence isn't the spectacular views you can get from it-instead, the bridge provides structural support to the towers as they sway during high-wind days, as well as a fire escape route if one of the towers ever has an emergency and needs to be evacuated.

Although most of the floors on the towers are privately rented, the lower floors house the Suria KLCC, an upscale shopping center with over 300 shops, as well as an art gallery, a science center, the Philharmonic Hall, and other attractions. The towers are particularly striking at night, when they are shining bright against the ever-changing urban landscape.

KLCC Park, located at the feet of the Petronas Twin Towers, is Kuala Lumpur's largest urban park, a 50-acre sanctuary for both humans and animals.

The park was designed to blend with its surroundings by combining man-made structures, such as sculptures and fountains, with over 2,000 different species of palms and indigenous flora. The trees here were selected through a complex system to ensure they attract both local and migratory birds, promote biodiversity, and provide a wide range of stunning colors and shapes to the design of the park.

KLCC's main attraction is Lake Symphony , a massive lake with a 43-meter bridge cutting across it and a number of fountains, including one that can shoot water 180 meters up into the sky and offers light and music shows twice a day. The fountain is particularly impressive at night, when you can truly appreciate the changing colors against the background of the illuminated Petronas Towers.

The park also offers a 1.3-kilometer-long rubberized jogging path, a wading pool, a two-acre children's playground , and plenty of photo opportunities among the landscaped trails that crisscross the park.

A spectacular tropical aviary covering 20.9 acres, the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is not only one of the world's largest covered bird parks, but also an important research center for scientists studying the behavioral patterns of certain species that are difficult to observe in the wild. Most of the over 2,000 birds here are local species, although about 10 percent were imported from as far away as Tanzania and Europe.

The park is divided into four zones, with Zone 4 being one of the most popular because of its walk-in parrot enclosure, its flightless bird exhibit (which include the deadly Cassowary), a feeding station that allows visitors to come in direct contact with some of the birds, and a 30-foot high waterfall .

The park also houses an amphitheater for 350 people that offers bird shows and an education area with presentations to teach guests about birds, endangered species, and more.

Official site: http://www.klbirdpark.com/

Kuala Lumpur's one-street Chinatown starts behind a large arch announcing its name and extends all the way to the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple, one of Malaysia's oldest Buddhist temples . The entire street is covered by a green roof, affectionately known by the locals as "Green Dragon"-a perfect shield from the heavy summer rains and the hot sun during the mid-afternoon hours.

Petaling Street is also a popular destination for street food , and both locals and tourists come here to grab spices, ingredients, and specialties such as salted roast duck or Hokkien mee, a Southeast Asian dish made up of noodles, fried eggs, and a mix of meats.

For those with a less adventurous stomach, there's also plenty to buy here-from street stalls selling toys and imitation brands to a Chinese bookstore, souvenirs, and much more.

Once the cricket green of the local Selangor Club, this massive open park square is now a popular spot for rallies, public events, and the National Day Parade. A 100-meter-tall flagpole commemorates the raising of the first Malayan flag here in 1957.

The city's most famous historical colonial buildings line up the streets around the square-and many are open to visitors or make for beautiful photo backgrounds.

The Sultan Abdul Samad Building , heavily influenced by Moorish style, houses the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Culture of Malaysia, while the nearby Kuala Lumpur City Gallery tells the story of the city through miniature models and innovative exhibits.

You'll also find a Victorian-era fountain here, where people often congregate to relax, as well as St. Mary's Church, one of Malaysia's oldest churches. The National Textile Museum , home to displays of traditional costumes and batik, is just a few steps away.

Located a 45-minute drive outside Kuala Lumpur, this multi-themed amusement park offers almost 100 different rides and attractions spread over 88 acres.

While Sunway started as a water park, it now also includes five additional zones: an Amusement Park (with rollercoasters, carousels and other rides); a Wildlife Park, a Scream Park with a massive haunted house; an Extreme Park (where you'll find ATV rides, bungee jumping, and paintball); and an area known as Nickelodeon's Lost Lagoon, which is specially designed for the younger visitors.

The park can be easily accessed via public transportation, and it offers a number of festivals throughout the year, including the very popular Nights of Fright during the entire month of October.

Official site: https://sunwaylagoon.com/

One of the tallest freestanding towers in the world and the tallest in Southeast Asia, the KL Tower reaches 421 meters into the sky, and it's primarily used as a TV and communications tower, an Islamic falak observatory, and a viewpoint over the city.

Visitors can make their way up to the revolving restaurant or the open-air observation platform, which is located 300 meters above the ground and can be reached by elevator in just under a minute.

There are several attractions inside the tower, including an upside-down funhouse museum; a small aquarium; a souvenir shop offering high-quality handicrafts; and the Sky Box, a glass box that extends out from the Sky Deck and offers unobstructed views of the city in every direction-including under your feet.

Official site: https://www.menarakl.com.my/index.php

Malaysia's most important cultural and heritage museum, this three-story museum holds collections that include everything from traditional weapons to historical wedding apparel to restored outdoor structures. The museum sits on the space that was once occupied by the Selangor Museum, destroyed by an air bombing during WWII.

Some of the museum's most interesting exhibits are located outdoors and include a 19th-century timber palace built using Terengganu Malay architecture and a number of traditional horse-drawn carriages and early motorized vehicles.

Inside the museum, visitors can get a glimpse of the colonial history of the country and the fight for independence, as well as the Hindu-Buddhist heritage of the nation in the form of stunning bronze and stone sculptures .

While Kuala Lumpur has its share of upscale shopping centers, this traditional market is where you'll find some of the best items in the city.

Located inside an Art Deco Heritage Site building dating back to the 19 th century, the market is arranged in a stall format, with small open shops offering a mismatched mix of everything from traditional Malaysian handicrafts and batik textiles to pewter and silver items.

Malaysia is also well known for ornamental wood carvings and pottery, both of which are well represented at the market.

Right to the side of the building, there's the colorful Kasturi Walk, an open-air flea market that complements Central Market with sales of local snacks, clothing and shoes, souvenirs, and more. Live performances and music can often be found here as well. Come prepared to haggle over prices, as this is expected and very much part of the fun here.

Official site: http://www.centralmarket.com.my/

The largest butterfly park in the world is home to over 5,000 butterflies and covers an area of 7,500 square meters. The butterflies are free inside a walk-in area covered by a canopy and it requires patience and a keen eye to find them resting on flowers and ferns as you walk through the jungle paths. You can also visit a breeding area to see butterfly larvae and a large live insect exhibit, where you'll find rhinoceros beetles, the largest beetles in the world.

The Butterfly Park sits next to the Perdana Botanical Gardens , a colonial-era park that covers 91.6 hectares and is located just minutes away from the National Museum.

If you have some extra time to explore, the gardens are worth a visit as well and feature a sunken garden surrounded by pergolas, a herbarium, an orchid garden, and a two-hectare enclosure home to fallow deer.

Official site: http://klbutterflypark.com/

The Batu Caves are just 13 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur and can be reached via an easy and picturesque train ride from KL's main train station. The caves, set inside stunning limestone hills, are an important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, the god of war. Right outside the entrance, a 43-meter-tall statue of Murugan-the tallest of its kind in the world -welcomes visitors.

Although there are three caves here, most visitors come for the main one, Cathedral Cave -a 91-meter-tall cave with stunning stalactite formations that can be reached after climbing 272 steps on a massive stone staircase.

Inside, you'll find a Hindu chapel and beautiful rock formations illuminated by sunlight coming through the breaks on the ceiling. Batu's second-largest cave, Dark Cave , is a protected space and can only be accessed with a tour.

The last section of the cave requires taking part in a special adventure tour and involves a lot of crawling, twisting, and getting dirty and wet-and hopefully spotting a number of large spiders, bats, and other animals.

Kuala Lumpur's shopping and entertainment district encompasses several streets and a number of shopping centers, street markets , and many upscale cafés and restaurants. This is the area where many major celebrations take place during the year, including the New Year's countdown and the St. Patrick's Day parade and festivities.

One of the main attractions in the area is the Berjaya Times Square shopping mall , which covers 330,000 square meters of retail space and is home to one of the largest indoor amusement parks in Asia , complete with a number of thrill rides and even a looping roller coaster. Starhill Gallery, the city's most posh mall, is also located in this area.

The Bukit Bintang Shopping District has also become well known for spa-related services , especially massages and reflexology, as well as a number of themed restaurants offering foreign cuisine in open-air spaces, including a "dining in the dark" experience.

The Istana Negara is the official residence of Malaysia's monarch. The name can be confusing to visitors, as there are actually two Istana Negara locations. The new Istana Negara is a massive 98-hectare palace complex with golden domes. Although the palace itself is closed to the public, its main arched gate is a favorite spot for visitors.

The old Istana Negara (the official royal residence until 2011) is now partially open to the public and houses the Royal Museum, where visitors can walk through 22 former palace spaces, including the royal sleeping chamber, a dining hall, and the Balairung Seri room (where the King would receive visitors).

Unique rooms included a royal dental clinic, a laundry room, and a cinema regularly showing short clips. Guided tours are offered by former palace guards.

A stunningly visual mix of Ottoman and Malay architectural styles, this massive mosque and its turquoise and gold domes are a beauty to photograph. Modeled after the Blue Mosque in Turkey, the Wilayah Mosque is open to everybody and offers free tours to anybody interested in learning about the local people, culture, and religion (Malaysia is about 60 percent Muslim).

While you cannot venture around the mosque on your own, the guides will be more than happy to stop by the most beautiful spots so you can photograph the geometric patterns, try to capture the grandeur of the main prayer hall, and breathe in the beauty of the courtyard.

An important cultural and national center for Indian immigrants, this 19th-century temple is best known for its colorful 23-meter-tall gopuram (tower). Designed as a five-tiered pyramid, it's decorated with statues and reliefs of Hindu gods.

The temple is dedicated to Mariamman, a manifestation of the goddess who embodies Mother Earth. While visitors mostly stop by to take pictures of the stunning outside of the building, the inside is equally richly decorated and beautiful.

During the months of January/February, the temple becomes the center of the celebration of the Thaipusam festival, where a silver chariot is brought out from the temple to join a march of believers all the way to the Batu Caves.

This 500-meter-long street section is Kuala Lumpur's must-visit food destination – especially at night, when it truly comes alive with smells and flavors. An absolute favorite among the locals, Jalan Alor has the benefit of offering a culinary experience without the touristy prices. Whether you're after sit-down restaurants or street food stalls, this is the place to visit if you don't mind crowds.

Noodle-based dishes and grilled foods rule in Jalan Alor, with some places offering unconventional dishes, focusing on seafood or doing only high-spice meals. There are also plenty of small shops selling clothes and knick-knacks here, as well as walk-in foot massage places around. Both shops and restaurants usually stay open until at least midnight.

Less than two blocks away is Jalan Alor Street Art 1, a pedestrian street famous for its colorful murals, trick 3D paintings on buildings, and great Instagram spots.

If you're craving waterfront views of the city skyline on your visit to Kuala Lumpur, this massive 95-hectare park built around a lake won't disappoint. It offers plenty of recreational activities, including canoeing, horse riding, tennis courts, and jogging tracks.

The park also houses a Remote Control (RC) Car track and a viewing tower, and there are sometimes live events organized here. Even on quiet days, you can always have a quick picnic here after visiting the National Art Gallery, just a few blocks away.

Luxury Hotels:

• In a great Golden Triangle location, within walking distance of top shopping, restaurants, and attractions, the new EQ Kuala Lumpur is a re-brand of the original Hotel Equatorial Kuala Lumpur. The 5-star property offers a mix of rooms and suites with a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. Many have fantastic city skyline views. Amenities include multiple restaurants, a posh spa, a swimming pool with sun-loungers, and free parking. Breakfast is also included, and the hotel is family-friendly.
• Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur is another luxurious 5-star property, with ultra-modern and trendy rooms featuring a neutral color scheme and modern art. Kids stay free at this family-friendly property. Other amenities include a spa offering a range of services, including couples' massages. There is also a swimming pool, hot tub, and airport transport is available.
• For a romantic luxury stay, book the Sanctuary Suite at the Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur . It features a relaxation plunge pool in your room facing the floor-to-ceiling window, with in-your-face city skyline views. Regular rooms are still impressive, with colorful modern art. The hotel also has a restaurant, swimming pool, and a swanky spa.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the trendy Golden Triangle area, Lanson Place Bukit Ceylon Serviced Residences feature panoramic views of the Kuala Lumpur Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers. They combine modern luxury with the comfort of apartment living. Choose from one-, two-, or three-bedroom units that all have kitchenettes and separate living and dining space. Amenities include an indoor play area and a kids' pool. There is also an outdoor swimming pool with sun-loungers, a fitness center, sauna, and yoga room.
• The Chow Kit - An Ormond Hotel is another top mid-range property. The recently opened hotel has already won awards for its trendy factor. Located in the city's famous Chow Kit district, its design takes inspiration from this neighborhood's historic past. Amenities include a signature restaurant, curated food and culture walking tours, complimentary breakfast, and yoga classes.
• Also check out the Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur for bespoke rooms and suites with modern design and great views. They also come with espresso coffee machines. Amenities include a rooftop swimming pool, a restaurant, and a fitness center.

Budget Hotels:

• MoMo's Kuala Lumpur is a top budget choice. It has a playful vibe throughout and offers guests clean and comfortable micro rooms that are perfect for guests looking for good value and who don't plan to spend a lot of time in their room. The rooms have bunk beds, making them perfect for friends traveling together. There is a late-night taco restaurant on-site that also has live music.
• Another solid choice for budget-focused travelers includes the 3-star Travelodge City Center . Located in the heart of the city, it has vibrant rooms with mural wall art and blackout curtains. There is a coffee shop on-site, a breakfast buffet is served in the mornings, and laundry services are available.
• The V Garden Hotel is a very affordable property that still has a fun vibe. The lifestyle hotel features 21 uniquely styled rooms, with modern art and wood-style floors. There is a large courtyard that is nicely landscaped and a café that serves up big breakfasts.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Thailand : If you loved Kuala Lumpur, there are other cities in Southeast Asia you might enjoy visiting as well. A quick one-hour flight from KL will get you to the fascinating sites of Bangkok . If tropical paradise and beach adventures are more your style, take a look at the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thailand to pick your next destination.

19 Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur + Things To Do

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a fast-rising city. It’s an economic and commercial hub accentuated by an impressive skyline of towering structures. But it does have a few tricks up its sleeve, endearing tourists who are equally impressed by the beauty of its nature.

The Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower aside, one of Kuala Lumpur’s top-rated attractions is the Butterfly Park, which houses about 5,000 vibrant and colorful winged insects. It also has a Bird Park with over 2,000 birds scattered through a 20.9 acre of land. Other important landmarks to visit in the city are the monarch’s official residence, Royal Palace Istana Negara, and the massive Wilayah Mosque.

Kuala Lumpur is well-connected to the world via the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Getting there, especially from neighboring countries in Asia, is a breeze. To make the most of your trip, visit Batu Caves, a stunning Hindu temple set in limestone caves, and other attractions nearby.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Kuala Lumpur travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Kuala Lumpur Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

See also: Kuala Lumpur Itinerary + Travel Guide .

View all travel tips on: Kuala Lumpur .

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur:

Traders Hotel

Splurge / KLCC

See discounts

THE FACE Suites

Budget / Chinatown

Backhome KL

Amethyst Love Guesthouse

Budget Backpacker / Bukit Bintang

KLBackpacker.com

1. Petronas Twin Towers

Admission/Entrance fee : Price online is MYR 120 per person. Includes skip-the-line ticket to the observation deck on the 86th floor, SkyBridge on the 41st/42nd floor and hotel pick-up/one-way transfer.

Opening hours : 9 am to 9 pm Nearest station : KLCC (KJ10 on KJL/LRT Kelana Jaya Line)

Location : Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

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2. KL Tower

Admission/Entrance fee : Discount price online is MYR 40 per adult for the observation deck entry ticket. Regular price is MYR 52 per adult. Observation Deck + Sky Deck + Sky Box discounted combo tickets cost MYR 91 per person.

Opening hours : 9 am to 10 pm Nearest stations : Bukit Nanas (MR8 on MRL/KL Monorail Line) and Dang Wangi (KJ12 on KJL/LRT Kelana Jaya Line)

Location : No. 2 Jalan Punchak Off, Jalan P Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

3. Batu Caves

Admission/Entrance fee : Entry to the main temple is free.

Opening hours : 6 am to 9 pm Nearest station : KC05 on KMUTER/KTM Port Klang Line

Location : Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor . Save on Google Maps .

4. Merdeka Square

Admission/Entrance fee : Free (Public space)

Opening hours : 24 hours Nearest station : Masjid Jamek (KJ13 on KJL/LRT Kelana Jaya Line; S12 on AGL/LRT Ampang Line; SPL/LRT Sri Petaling Line)

Location : Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

5. Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Admission/Entrance fee : Free to take pictures from the outside.

Opening hours : Open 24 hours except Saturday and Sunday Nearest station : Masjid Jamek

6. KL Gallery

Admission/Entrance fee : Free

Opening hours : 9 am to 6:30 pm Nearest station : Masjid Jamek

Location : Dataran Merdeka, 27, Jalan Raja, 50050 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

7. Thean Hou Temple

Admission/Entrance fee : Free

Opening hours : 9 am to 6 pm Nearest station : Bangsar (KJ16 on KJL/LRT Kelana Jaya Line) and Mid Valley (KB01 on KMUTER/KTM Seremban Line). None of the stations are within easy walking distance to Thean Hou Temple, better go by taxi or Grab.

Location : 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

8. Central Market

Opening hours : 10 am to 9:30 pm Nearest station : Pasar Seni Address : Jalan Hang Kasturi, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur” class=”affiliate btn btn-link m-r-0_25 m-b-0_5 ” rel=”nofollow” target=”_blank” data-urlsource=” Opening hours : 10 am to 9:30 pm Nearest station : Pasar Seni Address : Jalan Hang Kasturi, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur”data-site='()’>See discounts

Opening hours : 10 am to 9:30 pm Nearest station : Pasar Seni

Location : Central Market, Kasturi Walk @, 50050, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

9. Chinatown

Admission/Entrance fee : Free to walk around the public areas.

Opening hours : 10 am to 10 pm. Street vendors usually open at 3 pm onwards. Nearest station : Pasar Seni (KJ14 on KJL/LRT Kelana Jaya Line)

Location : Petaling Street and surrounding areas . Save on Google Maps .

10. Jalan Alor (Food Street)

Admission/Entrance fee : Free (public space)

Opening hours : Usually 5pm to early morning. Nearest station : Bukit Bintang (MR6 on MRL/KL Monorail Line)

Location : Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Perdana Botanical Gardens (Lake Gardens)

Opening hours : 7 am to 8 pm Nearest station : KL Sentral and Kuala Lumpur (KA02 on KMUTER/KTM Port Klang and Seremban Line)

Location : Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

12. National Mosque of Malaysia

Opening hours : From Mondays to Sundays (except Fridays), 9 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 4 pm & 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. On Fridays, 3 pm to 4pm, 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Nearest station : Pasar Seni (KJ14) and Kuala Lumpur (KA02)

Location : Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

13. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Admission/Entrance fee : MYR 14 per adult.

Opening hours : 10 am to 6 pm Nearest station : Pasar Seni (KJ14) and Kuala Lumpur (KA02)

Location : Perdana, Jalan Lembah, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

14. KL Bird Park

Admission/Entrance fee : Discount price online is MYR 29 per adult for the entry ticket with hotel pick-up (one-way transfer).

Opening hours : 9 am to 6 pm Nearest station : None within easy walking distance.

Location : 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

15. National Palace (Istana Negara)

Admission/Entrance fee : Free to take pictures outside the main gate.

Nearest station : None within easy walking distance.

Location : Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim, Bukit Damansara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

16. National Museum of Malaysia

Admission/Entrance fee : MYR 5 per adult

Opening hours : 9 am to 6 pm Nearest station : KL Sentral and Kuala Lumpur

Location : Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, Tasik Perdana, 50566 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

17. National Monument of Malaysia

Opening hours : 7 am to 6 pm Nearest station : None within easy walking distance.

Location : Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur, 50480 . Save on Google Maps .

18. Sunway Lagoon

Admission/Entrance fee : Discount price online is MYR 110 per adult for the 1-day entry ticket. Regular price is MYR 120 per adult.

Opening hours : 10 am to 6 pm Jump-off stations : Subang Jaya (KD09) and Kelana Jaya (KJ24)

Location : 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor . Save on Google Maps .

19. Lake Titiwangsa

Opening hours : 24/7 Nearest station : Titiwangsa (S16 on AGL/LRT Ampang and Sri Petaling Line)

Location : 6, Lorong Titiwangsa, Titiwangsa, 53200 Kuala Lumpur . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Kuala Lumpur

Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Kuala Lumpur that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur tourist spots, things to do in Kuala Lumpur, where to go in Kuala Lumpur & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

KLCC offers the best location for travelers set on a splurge. Book your stay at a hotel with a grand view of the Petronas Towers & KL Tower.

For more budget-friendly options, head to Bukit Bintang, KL Sentral or Chinatown. These areas are also within the city center & offer a convenient location for sightseeing and shopping. Choose a hotel/hostel within easy walking distance from an MRT/LRT/Monorail station.

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Kuala Lumpur hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Places to visit in kuala lumpur.

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• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Petronas Twin Towers

2. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

3. KLCC Park

4. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

5. Bavilinon

6. KL Tower

7. MinNature Malaysia

8. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

9. Jalan Alor

10. Suria KLCC Mall

11. Thean Hou Temple

12. KLCC - Bukit Bintang Pedestrian Walkway

13. Central Market Kuala Lumpur

14. Aquaria

15. BB Park Bukit Bintang

16. National Mosque (Masjid Negara)

17. Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

18. Perdana Botanical Garden

19. Chinatown

20. Lake Symphony

21. Petrosains Science Discovery Centre

22. Merdeka Square

23. Sultan Abdul Samad Building

24. National Museum

25. Berjaya Times Square Kuala Lumpur

26. Mid Valley Megamall

27. Jamek Mosque

28. Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

29. Jalan Masjid India

30. Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan

What travellers are saying.

Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur

Top hotel collections.

5 Star Hotels

Near SOGO Kuala Lumpur

Near Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Near Kl Sentral

• Filter (106)
• Shopping (18)
• Museum (13)
• Garden & Park (11)

1. Visit Observation Deck At Petronas Twin towers

3 km from city center 1 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Petronas Twin Towers located in KLCC are twin skyscrapers with each tower standing 451.9 meters proud. The tallest twin towers in the world, the major attraction at Petronas Towers is the double-decker sky bridge (on the 41st and 42nd floors) and the observation deck (on the 86th floor), which provides a magical aerial view of Kuala Lumpur. The towers are closed on Monday.

2. Shop & Eat At Petaling Street (Chinatown)

1 km from city center 2 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown is the hub of food, accessories, clothing, and everything a tourist could ask for. It is one of the most colorful and vibrant areas of Kuala Lumpur. This place is a paradise for shopaholics and gourmands and provides ample sightseeing opportunities, such as the captivating Buddhist Temples, art galleries, traditional food, and coffee houses. The nearest station is Pasar Seni MRT Station.

3. Skyview Deck at the KL Tower

2 km from city center 3 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Menara KL, or Kuala Lumpur Tower, located within the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, is the tallest telecommunications tower in South East Asia and the 7th tallest in the world. The thrilling 360-degree view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline from the Observation Deck and Sky Tower is the main attraction. The KL Tower is also popular for the revolving restaurant it houses.

4. Walk Through Underwater Tunnel At Aquaria KLCC

3 km from city center 4 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located at Suria KLCC Mall, Aquaria KLCC is one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia housing more than 250 varied species of animals. Spread over 60,000 square feet over two levels, the main highlight is the 90-meter underwater tunnel.

Kuala Lumpur Travel Packages

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Amazing kuala lumpur holiday package for 3 nights, a relaxing malaysia vacation with kuala lumpur and genting highlands.

Malaysia Itinerary 5 Days including Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi

Family Special Tour in Kuala Lumpur and Genting Highlands

Malaysia 4 days itinerary - all inclusive private tour, 5. day trip to batu caves.

11 km from city center 5 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Batu Caves is a series of limestone caves and temples in Selangor, Malaysia. One of the most popular tourist attractions and an important Hindu landmark, Batu Caves are believed to be 400 million years old. It is situated about 13 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur in the district of Gombak, making it an unmissable day trip. The main highlight of the Batu Caves is 140 feet tall Murugan statue, the tallest in the world.

6. Visit Berjaya Hills

32 km from city center 6 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Berjaya Hills in Malaysia is an island resort located on a mountain ridge surrounded by lush green forests, an hour away from Kuala Lumpur. Popularly known as Bukit Tinggi, the main draw of this hill resort is the Colmar Tropicale.

Top Hotels In Kuala Lumpur

₽ 3,004 onwards

₽ 1,174 onwards

₽ 1,328 onwards

₽ 2,773 onwards

₽ 1,155 onwards

7. Walk Around KL Bird Park

1 km from city center 7 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is a 20.9-acre public aviary adjacent to the Lake Gardens. Also known as Taman Burung Kuala Lumpur, this is the largest covered bird park in the world, housing more than 3,000 birds. The area has been divided into 4 zones, each offering a wide range of activities to try out.

8. Enjoy Putrajaya Boat Cruise

24 km from city center 8 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located south of Kuala Lumpur, cruising on Putrajaya Lake offers an opportunity to get away from the bustle of the city and explore some of the architectural spectacles in the area. Cruise Tasik Putrajaya is the only operator on the lake and has air-conditioned catamarans or handcrafted wooden perahu boats with sightseeing cruises and dining cruises.

9. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

0 km from city center 9 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Islamic Art Museum of Malaysia has an extensive collection of ancient Islamic artifacts and books from the Middle East, the birthplace of Islam. Located at the brink of Lake Gardens, this museum is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Spanning 30,000 square meters, it is adorned with Islamic patterns and houses more than 7000 artifacts.

10. Symphony Water Fountain Show at KLCC Park

4 km from city center 10 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Kuala Lumpur City Center Park, popularly known as KLCC Park, is a 50-acre garden located at the base of Petronas Towers and opposite Suria KLCC Shopping Centre. The major attractions include Lake Symphony, the As Syakirin Mosque, and the children’s public pool. The water fountain show is held daily at 8:00 PM, 9:00 PM, and 10:00 PM.

11. Hike At KL Forest Eco Park

3 km from city center 11 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The KL Forest Eco Park, formerly the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, is the only tropical rainforest in Kuala Lumpur. The 9-hectare forest reserve is also one of the oldest forest reserves in Malaysia. The main attractions are the well-maintained walking trails, diverse trees, and a kid's playground. It is also home to a forest Canopy Walk - a 200-meter wood and steel aerial bridge.

12. Visit Masjid Negara (National Mosque of Malaysia)

1 km from city center 12 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The National Mosque of Malaysia, commonly known as Masjid Negara, is one of the largest Sunni-affiliated mosques in Malaysia, located in Kuala Lumpur. It is perfectly reminiscent of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, adorned with abstract shapes and intricate geometric lattices. A 74m-high minaret issues the call to prayer, which can be heard across Chinatown. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit outside prayer times.

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13. Shopping At Suria KLCC

3 km from city center 13 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Suria KLCC is a six-story premier shopping mall located at the foot of the towering Petronas Twin Towers overlooking KLCC Park. Spread over more than 1.5 million square feet, it has become a beacon for the best shopping, dining, and entertainment experience in Malaysia. It is also famous for the Petronas Art Gallery, Aquaria KLCC, and Petrosains, a science discovery center.

14. Street Food at Jalan Alor

3 km from city center 14 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Jalan Alor is a 500-meter long food street in Kuala Lumpur. Located in the heart of the city in Bukit Bintang Area, it is one of the busiest food streets in the world. Food for one person can cost around RM 100. While Jalan Alor can be visited any time of the day, the food stalls and restaurants offer the best services only in the evening after 5:00 PM.

15. Fun Day At Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

12 km from city center 15 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is a famous recreational park located at Petaling Jaya in Kuala Lumpur. It is popular for the Water Park, Scream Park, Wildlife Park, Amusement Park, and Asia’s first-ever Nickelodeon Theme Park located on its premise.

16. Visit Istana Negara (Royal Museum)

1 km from city center 16 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The old Istana Negara of Kuala Lumpur is the former residence and National Palace of Malaysia’s Agong or Supreme Leader, Yang di-Pertuan. Located on the green slopes of a Bukit Petaling hill overlooking the Klang River, it is now the Royal Museum or Muzium Diraja in Malay. The museum has two blocks - the National Palace Gallery and the Balairong Seri or the Throne Room. Furniture, personal belongings, and photographs are the main highlights.

17. Explore Petrosains, the Discovery Centre

3 km from city center 17 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located at the famous Petronas Towers, Petrosains is a science and technology museum. Visitors can go for a ride through Malaysia’s natural resources and technological advancements and then wander around multiple exhibits, including model F1 cars from Petronas-sponsored teams.

18. Souvenir Shopping At Cental Market

1 km from city center 18 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Central Market of Kuala Lumpur is a handicrafts market clustered with diverse shops selling local arts and souvenirs. Locally known as Pasar Seni, it is a major landmark of the city.

19. Explore Little India

1 km from city center 19 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located near KL Sentral, Brickfields Little India offers tourists a taste of the subcontinent despite being far away from it. The bustling street sells Indian snacks like gulab jamuns, vadas, samosas, lassi, etc, and has shops selling glass bangles, traditional Indian clothing, incense sticks, and sarees, among others. The Little India locality also houses the Thean Hou temple.

20. Walk Around Perdana Botanical Gardens

1 km from city center 20 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Spanning 92 hectares, the green and landscaped Perdana Botanical Gardens is in Kuala Lumpur’s Heritage Park. The park is a great jogging site and houses different species of orchids, a hibiscus park, and a 20-acre bird park. Inside the garden also lies a deer park, a sunken garden, a herb garden, and a collection of rare trees, cycads, bamboo, and grass.

21. Party At The Nightclubs

0 km from city center 21 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Nightlife is lively in Kuala Lumpur, with a variety of bars, pubs and nightclubs to give tourists a great time. Kuala Lumpur is home to Zouk, rated the third best nightclub in Asia. Skybar, named Asia’s best bar in 2016, offers views of the Petronas towers and a panoramic view of the city. In addition, the city has nightclubs perched atop highrises, offering views of the city at night, as well as views of the green Klang valley around the city.

22. Sightseeing At Merdeka Square

1 km from city center 22 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Merdeka Square, also known as Dataran Merdeka, is the iconic landmark of Kuala Lumpur. Situated in front of the famous Sultan Abdul Samad Building, it is a popular sightseeing spot with buildings like the National Textile Museum and City Gallery surrounding it. It is best visited around 9:00 PM when the free light and sound show takes place each day.

23. Shopping At KL Pavilion

3 km from city center 23 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is a premiere shopping destination located in Central Bukit Bintang area. Spread over 7 levels, the mall has 8 shopping precincts. Pavilion Elite, being the mall's retail expansion, houses the largest Coach store in South-East Asia. The Pavilion Crystal Fountain at the entrance of KL Pavilion is Malaysia's tallest Liuli Crystal Fountain and is considered a national landmark.

24. Tour National Museum of Malaysia

0 km from city center 24 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The National Museum of Malaysia, popularly called Muzium Negara, is located near the Southern tip of Lake Garden, past the National Art Gallery in Kuala Lumpur. It presents a combination of ethnology and natural history, unveiling Malaysia's culture and history.

25. Street Markets in Kuala Lumpur

0 km from city center 25 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Street markets around Kuala Lumpur are a must-visit for all shopaholics visiting this city. Markets on the roadside sell handicrafts, home decorations, clothing, and accessories. The markets are open from the morning to the evening and then re-open at midnight. Petaling Street, Central Market, and Kasturi Walk are among the biggest shopping attractions around the city.

26. Discover Cafes in Kuala Lumpur

0 km from city center 26 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Scattered across Kuala Lumpur, cafes in the city serve delicious brunches and desserts and often have bakeries attached as well. They also serve a wide range of coffees and teas. Cafes such as Acme Bar & Coffee, The Red Beanbag, and Antipodean Cafe offer a wide range of foods from a variety of cuisines. Yeast Bistronomy doubles up as a wine bar and also serves a variety of baked goods. In addition, the city is full of cafes serving western and local cuisine, and some, like Kopenhagen Coffee, specialise in Danish cuisine and coffees.

27. Day Trip to Genting Highlands

34 km from city center 27 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located in Pahang, Genting Highlands is a beautiful hill station in Malaysia that is only an hour’s drive away from Kuala Lumpur. It is renowned for its spirited nightlife, luxury hotels, huge shopping complexes, and world-class casinos. It also has cave temples, amusement parks, and water park. Awana SkyWay and Genting SkyWay are the two accessible cable car services for reaching Genting Highlands.

28. Mid Valley Megamall

3 km from city center 28 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Mid Valley Megamall is a humongous shopping complex located in the Mid Valley City, halfway between Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur. The Mid Valley Megamall has about 430 local and international stores that span across 5 floors. It also houses a cinema hall, bowling alley and bookstore.

29. Berjaya Times Square

3 km from city center 29 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s largest inter-city shopping-cum-leisure mall-Berjaya Times Square (BTS) is located in the heart of the city of Kuala Lumpur. This 203-metre-tall tower with 48 floors is a fascinating combination of a hotel, condominium, and shopping center complex with its very own indoor amusement park.

30. Family Time At KidZania

4 km from city center 30 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

KidZania Kuala Lumpur is a children's theme park - a mini-city that spans across an area of 80,000 sq. ft. Located in Petaling Jaya area, KidZania is an edutainment theme park that allows the kids to get a real life-experience of a job-environment while they indulges in several role-play activities.

31. Visit Bukit Bintang

3 km from city center 31 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Bintang is Kuala Lumpur's trendiest shopping and entertainment district, housing shopping centers, five-star hotels, and sleek nightclubs. Also known as Bintang Walk, the most iconic attraction here is Pavilion KL. One of the most visited areas of Kuala Lumpur, it is known for its thriving nightlife and major events like Merdeka celebrations, New Year's Eve, parties, and concerts.

32. Thean Hou Temple

2 km from city center 32 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The 6-tiered Thean Hou Temple, located in Kuala Lumpur, is one of Southeast Asia's largest and most beautiful temples. The temple is a fusion of three beliefs - Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. It is extremely colorful and offers a spectacular view atop Robson Hill. Try to visit the temple during night hours as the glowing lanterns and lights make the temple a stunning sight.

33. Marvel At Sultan Abdul Samad Building

1 km from city center 33 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The beautifully designed and maintained, 19th-century structure, Sultan Abdul Samad Building stands tall at the Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur. It houses the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia. The main highlight is the stunning view of the building when illuminated at night.

34. Explore Hawker Centres At Madras Lane

9 km from city center 34 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Madras Lane is one of the smallest and busiest lanes of Petaling Street, Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur. It is a wet market where groceries, vegetables, freshly slaughtered chicken and fish are available. Madras lane is also known for its hawker centres.

35. See Giant Pandas At Zoo Negara

11 km from city center 35 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The National Zoo of Malaysia, commonly known as Zoo Negara, is spread over over 100 acres and is home to more than 476 wildlife species. The main highlight of this zoo is Malaysia’s famous giant pandas: Xing Xing and Liang Liang. The local zoo also features performances by trained animals such as sea lions and macaws. 

36. Click Pictures At Museum of Illusions

3 km from city center 36 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Museum of Illusions, open from 10 in the morning to 10 at night, offers visitors unique experiences that leave them questioning their own senses. The museum has a wide range of optical illusions, illusory mirrors, kaleidoscopes, and even an anti-gravity room. With rooms like the reversed room and infinity room, it offers visitors multiple photo opportunities as well.

37. KL Butterfly Park

1 km from city center 37 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, located adjacent to the Lake Gardens and the KL Bird Park, is one of the largest butterfly parks in the world. Spread over 80,000 square feet of the landscaped garden, it houses over 5,000 butterflies, exotic plants, butterfly-host plants, and ferns.

38. Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Kuala Lumpur

38 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, located in Chinatown area of Kuala Lumpur, is the oldest temple of Goddess Mariamman, the manifestation of Goddess Parvati and the oldest Hindu temple in the city. It is beautifully crafted and designed in the Dravidian architecture, having a Raja Gopuram Tower at the entrance.

39. Walk Around Chow Kit Market

3 km from city center 39 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Chow Kit Market of Kuala Lumpur, located at the Northern end of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, is a notorious landmark in the city. It is divided into two halves - one houses the unofficial red light district, while the other is home to the largest wet market in the city.

40. Royal Malaysian Police Museum

0 km from city center 40 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located in Jalan Perdana of Malaysia, the Royal Malaysian Police Museum houses invaluable artefacts ranging from handmade guns to automatic weapons about the Royal Malaysian Police since its inception. A museum for the celebratory accomplishments of the Police force, it also has innumerable evidence of the crime issues that emerged during the past.

41. Masjid Jamek

1 km from city center 41 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Masjid Jamek, also known as Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque, is the oldest place of Islamic Worship in Kuala Lumpur. Also known as Friday Mosque, it is a melange of Mughal, Islam and Moorish style of architecture with pristine surrounding.

42. Enjoy the Street Food in Kuala Lumpur

0 km from city center 42 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Despite the numerous fine dining restaurants all around Kuala Lumpur, it is the street food that steals the show. On the street, travellers can find stalls selling local delicacies like satay, the rice-based Nasi Lemak and Nasi Kandar, Laksa and the like. In addition, Ramly burgers can be found in almost every streetside stall, and tourists must also try the Cendol, a local dessert made of rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar.

43. Take A Trip To Pangkor Island

43 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Pangkor Island is a group of resort island situated in Perak off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It has everything packed for a refreshing vacation right from a vibrant Chinatown to quiet lovely beaches. Trek lovers will find the uphill trek through the jungle quite overwhelming. 

44. Dinosaurs Alive Kuala Lumpur

4 km from city center 44 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Based in the Malaysia Tourism Centre, Dinosaur Alive is a Jurassic world themed exhibition featuring 40 life-sized robotic dinosaurs in a forest setting. At the entrance, there are 2 gigantic dinosaurs set up to welcome the visitors. One of the most eye-grabbing exhibits is a 12-metre Tyrannosaurus Rex.

45. Tour Royal Selangor Visitor Center

8 km from city center 45 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre of Kuala Lumpur, located in Setapak Jaya, provides guided tours of the world’s foremost pewter crafts and manufacturing company - Royal Selangor. The visitor centre introduces one to the world of pewter through sight, touch and sound.

46. Farm In The City

18 km from city center 46 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Farm in the City is a unique petting zoo styled like a typical Malaysian village, located in Taman Equine, Seri Kembangan along the Damansara Puchong highway. The zoo is split up into different zones including a turtle and tortoise section, a bird aviary and a reptile cavern.

47. Sunway Putra Mall

3 km from city center 47 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located opposite the International Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur, the Sunway Putra Mall is a five-story shopping complex that houses over 300 stores. The mall is categorized into 4 sections which house local as well as international brands.

48. Sepang International Circuit

42 km from city center 48 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Sepang International Circuit is an F1 race south of Kuala Lumpur in Sepang, Selangor. With a guided circuit tour, peek into the most exclusive and reserved areas here. Opened in 1997, Sepang International Circuit has hosted many big-ticket racing events like the F1 Malaysian Grand Prix and Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix.

49. Forest Research Institute Malaysia

12 km from city center 49 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Located in Selangor, Forest Research Institute Malaysia is one among the chief institutes in tropical forestry research in the world housing a multiplicity of flora and fauna. The institute provides an opportunity for camping at Perah Campsite, trekking at natural trails and picnic at Sg Kroh.

50. Plaza Low Yat

50 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Plaza Low Yat shopping centre is Malaysia's largest IT mall offering seven floors of electronic goods and services. Situated in the Bukit Bintang shopping belt, LYP or Low Yat houses almost 500 retail stores offering services ranging from mobile, computer, and camera to gaming repairs.

51. Tugu Negara

1 km from city center 51 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The National Monument of Malaysia, popularly known as Tugu Negara, is dedicated to the 11,000 brave souls who were martyred during the first and the second World War and the subsequent Emergency period of Malaysia's independence.

52. Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

1 km from city center 52 out of 106 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

The Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, located at Merdeka Square, is a tourist information center. It exhibits the history of Kuala Lumpur through its collection of photographs, paintings, and miniature models. Housed in a 115-year-old Government Printing Office, the main highlight is the Spectacular City Model Show and the iconic I Love KL structure. 

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Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

25 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

The capital city of Malaysia , Kuala Lumpur is a diverse area that includes Tamil, Chinese, Malay, and indigenous inhabitants. The most populous city in the nation, Kuala Lumpur is spread over 200 square kilometers and now merges with neighboring suburbs to create a hub of activity and commerce.

Tourism is a central focus in Kuala Lumpur and as such there are a huge variety of attractions for visitors to choose from, ranging from the more traditional to the more modern depending on your tastes. There are temples and mosques to reflect the diversity of the city, spectacular futuristic towers and skyscrapers, local markets and street food, and just about anything else you can imagine.

Whether you enjoy spending an afternoon wandering in a leafy park, or shopping in a multi-story mega mall, Kuala Lumpur doesn’t disappoint with something to suit all ages and budgets. Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur !

1. Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur

One of the most iconic sights in the world, the PETRONAS Towers, or the PETRONAS Twin Towers considering the fact that there are two of them, are the tallest twin towers in the world. The towers feature postmodern architecture and style and also feature Islamic designs due to the Muslim majority in Malaysia. Visitors flock here for the walk over the sky bridge that joins the two towers together and you can admire the breathtaking views that stretch across the city of Kuala Lumpur.

2. Take in the history at Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Famous for being the oldest Hindu temple in all of Kuala Lumpur having been built in the nineteenth century, Sri Mahamariamman Temple is well worth a visit for those wanting to learn about the diverse cultures and religions that make up this city. The temple is easily recognizable as you approach as it has a vibrant and colorful façade featuring a range of Hindu deities depicting famous legends. The site is a working temple and as such a place of worship for the local Tamil community but visitors can also explore the grounds and wonder at the architecture and atmosphere.

3. Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar, meaning ‘mixed rice’, is a cornerstone of Malaysian cuisine and customers are given a plate of plain rice and can choose a variety of toppings and sauces to accompany it. Nasi Kandar is based on Tamil dishes due to the high number of South Indian immigrants and the sauces and gravies are heavy on curry powder and chili. Common Nasi Kandar dishes include curried meat or seafood as well as a vegetable component such as okra or Asian cabbage.

4. Make some feathery friends at Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

Spanning over 20 acres this enormous aviary is home to over 3000 birds and the focus is on promoting local species to visitors, although there are also some imported birds housed in the park. Visitors can enjoy learning about the local flora and fauna and bird watch in one of the largest public aviaries in the world. The park is also a well respected scientific location and there is an emphasis on conservation and education, and there are breeding programs and scientific studies of the birds in their natural habitat.

Tip : Combine the Bird Park, the Butterfly Park and the Orchid Garden with this combo ticket

5. Enjoy the culture at the National Museum

Located near the famous Lake Gardens, the National Museum is an architectural wonder in itself as it is fashioned in the shape of a traditional house and includes decorations that are a mixture of contemporary and more traditional designs. Visit the National Museum to learn all about the history and culture of Malaysia and take in the replicas of Malay houses, wedding scenes, and hunting displays. There are also local instruments and national costumes on show. As well as the permanent exhibitions at the museum there are also temporary exhibits that change throughout the year and are located in the Central Hall.

6. Have some fun at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

A little way out of the city center in the suburb of Petaling Jaya, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park has offered fun for all the family since it opened in 1997. Their slogan is ‘Come Feel the Fun’ and visitors to the area can experience not just a theme park but also a water park that is located on the same site, and a wildlife and ‘extreme’ park with wilder rides for more adventurous types. The complex includes theme park rides, interactive games, wave and surf pools, and even a zoo. The park also features dining and shopping options for those who want to grab some souvenirs.

7. Scan the depths at Aquaria KLCC

Touted not just as a simple aquarium but as an ‘oceanarium’ housed in the depths of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Aquaria KLCC spans over 60,000 square feet and features a 300 foot tunnel in the center which allows visitors to explore the depths up close as they are surrounded on three sides by water. The experience is set up as a land to sea journey and aims to educate visitors on Malaysian aquatic life, from fresh water rivers and swamps, to the vast ocean. There are also educational and interactive exhibits that emphasize the importance of conservation and Aquaria KLCC has over 5,000 aquatic creatures for visitors to enjoy.

8. Do some shopping at Central Market

The Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, also known as Pasar Seni, is a firm location on the tourist map and was developed from a former wet market selling fruit, vegetables, and meat. Nowadays the area has been updated and includes different sections to reflect the various influences and ethnic backgrounds present in Malaysia such as Malay, Indian, and Chinese areas selling local products like souvenirs and arts and crafts. On the upper floor there is also a food court selling local delicacies and the area in front of the market is known for street performers and musical shows.

• 9.  Learn about rail transport at Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

No longer Kuala Lumpur’s main railway station, having been usurped by the more modern KL Sentral, come to Kuala Lumpur Railway Station to see a railway museum housed inside an example of classic British and Asian architecture. Built during the British colonial period and completed in 1886, the museum is a mix of European and Asian styles and now features antique exhibits in the Great Hall such as fire engines and steam trains. There are also models and replicas of trains and carriages and visitors can stroll around the platforms and learn about the history of the locomotive in Malaysia.

10. Eat some street food at Hutong

Food courts located within malls are plentiful in Kuala Lumpur but Hutong, housed inside Lot 10 Mall, is said to be one of the best in the business. The food court is made up of local street vendors who were selected and asked to sell their dishes at Hutong and as such the food is authentic and delicious, and more importantly is all housed under one roof so you don’t have to go pounding the pavements in search of a feast. The food court is a great place for newcomers to Malaysian cuisine to visit as it features all of the most famous and moreish local dishes such as oyster omelets, fried noodles and noodles soups, dumplings, meatballs, and roasted meats. There is a top rated ‘Off The Eaten Track’ Street Food Tour which you can book here .

11. Visit a working pewter museum at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

Something of a hidden gem and strangely under-visited, Royal Selangor Visitor Centre showcases the history, factory, and products of Royal Selangor since they began production in 1885. There are free guided tours that include a museum section with early samples of their work, historical photographs, and even period garb for visitors to try on, followed by a visit to the working Royal Selangor factory. You can even try your hand at fashioning some of the pewter pieces and there is a gift shop attached should you want to stock up on pewter jewelry and ornaments.

12. Take in the views at Kuala Lumpur Tower

Also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur, this tower stands at 335 meters and has an observation deck that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The towers serves many functions as well as acting as an observation tower for the sighting of the moon to mark the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, and there is even an annual race to the top to promote health and fitness. The visitor deck is the highest point in the city that is open to the public and it takes fifty-four seconds for the lifts to ascend to the site. Popular times to visit are around dusk to observe night falling across the city.

13. Slow down at Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

For a slightly whimsical day out head to Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park and marvel at the hundreds of different colorful butterflies in residence, over 120 species in fact. The park itself is modeled on a jungle forest experience and features walkways, footpaths, lakes, ponds, and gazebos, and there is an abundance of local flora and fauna to discover in addition to the butterflies themselves. There are educational explanations such as breeding program and life cycle information and visitors to the park can slow down and enjoy the quieter and calmer pace as they take in the local wildlife.

14. Shop till you drop at Suria KLCC

A site within the enormous KLCC complex that includes the mighty PETRONAS Towers, Suria KLCC is a six story shopping center that includes shops, rides, a cinema, a supermarket, and a variety of dining options including food courts. On the top floor of the mall visitors can eat at Rasa food court which features freshly prepared food from all over Malaysia and a table near the windows offers spectacular views over the city. In the basement visitors can also browse the rows of souvenirs and arts and crafts vendors selling their wares from carts.

15. Head to a food haven at Alor Street

In the days of old Alor Street was famous for being a red light district and a place of dubious repute although it has now cleaned up its act and is now best known as a haven for foodies. Should you visit during the day you will be disappointed as the street vendors only really set up when the sun begins to set and the street changes appearance completely and becomes a hive of culinary activity. The vendors here usually focus on selling one signature dish perfected over the years. Expect the food to be delicious but humble and the dining experience will be on the sidewalk on plastic chairs and tables.

16. Meander around Jamek Mosque

Built in the early 1900s, Jamek Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia and is often visited for its Moorish architectural style and for its location, as it sits at the site where the Klang and Gombak rivers meet. As such visitors can tour parts of the mosque (in appropriate dress) and can also take in the stunning views across the waters. For many years this was the primary Muslim place of worship in the city and has a proud history of famous preachers and religious leaders who have attended the mosque.

17. Meet the animals at the National Zoo of Malaysia

Located to the north-east of Kuala Lumpur, the National Zoo is run by the Malaysian Zoological Society and almost 500 species are housed within. There are a range of exhibits for visitors to enjoy such as a reptile park, an aviary, a lake, and a freshwater aquarium. There are even areas dedicated to insects as well as a huge range of other local flora and fauna. The zoo runs conservation programs and educational activities such as guided tours and interactive exhibits geared towards children and teenagers. There is even a dedicated section called Children’s World that focuses on domestic pets and has a replica farmhouse barn and a play area.

18. Wander through China Town

Kuala Lumpur, in addition to Malay and Indian nationals, has a large Chinese population and as such China Town has developed as a predominantly ethnically Chinese area of the city that is also well worth a visit if you are in town for a few days. Located in and around Petaling Street, the area features a market, Chinese food options, and Chinese cultural attractions such as temples. The street food vendors that set up here at night are particularly popular.

19. Learn some royal history at Istana Negara

Istana Negara used to be the palace of the former kings of Malaysia before a new palace was erected in 2011 and Istana Negara was designated as a royal museum. Visitors to the palace can learn about royal points of interest and visit some of the different rooms and there are also royal guards stationed at the entrance in both modern and traditional uniform. There is also a changing of the guard ceremony every day for visitors to witness some of Malaysia’s royal and official ceremonial traditions.

20. Count some money at Maybank Numismatic Museum

Owned and managed by one of Malaysia’s biggest and best known banks, Maybank, the Maybank Numismatic Museum is now home to the largest money and coin collections in all of Malaysia and is located within the iconic Maybank Tower. The museum has a range of different attractions such as antique examples of coins and banknotes as well as a huge metal sculpture of a ‘money tree’. Visitors can also learn about the history of currency in Malaysia and greater South East Asia.

21. Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque

Malaysia’s National Mosque is a truly enormous structure that can accommodate 15,000 worshippers at any given time. Built in the sixties, the mosque follows principles of Islamic architecture and has as a roof in the shape of a sixteen point star. There is also a strong emphasis on water features such as fountains and reflective pools throughout the mosque complex and visitors can tour the mosque but must wear appropriate dress which is provided to do so.

22. Go climbing in the Batu Caves

Located outside of Kuala Lumpur in the suburb of Selangor lie the Batu Caves, and visitors can marvel at these limestone cliffs that are dotted with caves and carved cave temples. The caves and temples are Hindu shrines and are still considered and important place of pilgrimage for the many Tamil residents of Malaysia. Visitors can visit the caves and also experience the local flora and fauna that include wild monkeys that inhabit the area as well as famous cave-dwelling bats. There are also rock climbing opportunities with over 160 climbing routes in the area and lighter treks for less experienced visitors.

23. Take a stroll in KLCC Park

Easily spotted down below from the Petronas Towers Sky Bridge, no trip to KL is complete without a visit to KLCC Park, a specially designed area of Kuala Lumpur that provides the city with some much needed green space. The park stretches over 20 hectares and has jogging and walking trails for visitors wishing to exercise, and there is also a large lake and fountain attraction that features a water show twice daily. There are other water features dotted throughout the area such as ponds, fountains, and waterfalls, and a children’s garden for younger visitors. There is even a mosque within for park for Muslim visitors wishing to worship.

24. Explore a Buddhist Temple at Thean Hou Temple

Thean Hou Temple is something of an iconic landmark in the city of Kuala Lumpur due to its original six tier design that makes it instantly recognizable. The inside of the temple features Confucian, Tao, and Buddhist decorative pieces and has traditional red pillars to welcome visitors and promote prosperity. Considered one of the most decorative temples in Kuala Lumpur, there are intricate carvings and decorated raised ceilings painted in red and gold.

25. Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is a famous section of Kuala Lumpur that features a range of nightlife, bar, clubs, restaurants, and hotel options. The area spans several streets but the central hub is primarily located in and around Jalan P. Ramlee, where visitors can choose from a wide variety of venues to drink and party until dawn. The area also includes a large shopping center for those looking for some retail therapy or simply to buy some trinkets before heading out for a night on the town.

25 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia):

• Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur
• Take in the history at Sri Mahamariamman Temple
• Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar
• Make some feathery friends at Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
• Enjoy the culture at the National Museum
• Have some fun at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
• Scan the depths at Aquaria KLCC
• Do some shopping at Central Market
• Eat some street food at Hutong
• Visit a working pewter museum at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
• Take in the views at Kuala Lumpur Tower
• Slow down at Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park
• Shop till you drop at Suria KLCC
• Head to a food haven at Alor Street
• Meander around Jamek Mosque
• Meet the animals at the National Zoo of Malaysia
• Wander through China Town
• Learn some royal history at Istana Negara
• Count some money at Maybank Numismatic Museum
• Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque
• Go climbing in the Batu Caves
• Take a stroll in KLCC Park
• Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

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• 19 Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur In 2024: The City Of Lights

23 Mar 2023

Primarily an Islamic city, Kuala Lumpur depicts royal Islamic architecture beautifully. There are several places to visit in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia, that bring you closer to the awesome life in this melting pot of the culture and entertainment. Housing several quaint haunts and imposing skyscrapers, Kuala Lumpur has emerged as a popular tourist destination which should not be missed on your trip to Malaysia. These following spots will help you know the history, traditions, culture, art, and lifestyle of its people. It includes the ancient temples, historical buildings, modern skyscrapers, beautiful parks and more.

19 Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur In 2024

The city has equal part of elegance and fun seeped into its pores. It caters to tourists of all age groups, and its charm draws people to explore the city’s stunning architecture and fair modernism. Extracting the best 19 of the amazing places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, we give you a good number of reasons to visit the city really soon.

• Petronas Tower – Sky’s the limit
• Menara KL Tower – A Rapunzel-tower
• Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – A Free World
• Batu Caves – Ancient Limestone Wonder
• Sultan Abdul Samad Building – A Spectacular Heritage Site
• Sunway Lagoon Theme Park – A top tourist place in Kaula Lumpur
• Aquaria KLCC – A day with the sharks
• National Mosque of Malaysia – A unique steel mosque
• Little India – A nostalgic place for Indians
• Jalan Alor – Haunt for all the foodies
• Suria KLCC – Visit The Famous Petronas Tower
• Kuala Lumpur City Gallery – Know The City Better
• Tugu Negara – Explore The National Monument
• Berjaya Times Square – Shapoholic’s Choice
• Forest Eco Park – Canopy Walkaway
• National Science Centre – For The Curious Ones
• Connaught Market – Shop Till You Drop
• Titiwangsa Lake Garden – Take A Stroll
• Istana Budaya –  Cultural Palace

1. Petronas Tower – Sky’s The Limit

Image Credit: Shutterstock

World’s once tallest buildings, Petronas Twin Towers now claim the spot of world’s tallest twin buildings with their towering height of 452 m. This is one of the most famous places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Beautifully designed with Islamic-influenced architecture, Petronas Twin Towers primarily hold headquarters of Petronas Company and corporates like Barclays, Boomerang, IBM, McKinsey & Co., Accenture, and Reuters. The 88-storey buildings are connected by a double decker skybridge between the 41st and 42nd levels.

There are Science Museum, Petroleum Museum, Petronas Concert Hall and other attractions that interest global travelers and tourists in Petronas Towers. Also, there are several things to do, and the most amazing one being looking over the whole city from the Petronas Towers’ Observation Deck, which set on 86th level. The double-decked skybridge offers mesmerizing views, along with the thrill of walking between two towers. The concert hall hosts some of the world’s most respected musical talents and orchestras. The romantic vibe of the Petronas Tower makes it one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for couples.

Location: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 9 am to 7 pm, daily. On Fridays, the entry is closed from 1 pm to 2.30 pm Entry fee: MYR 84.40 for adults and MYR 31.80 for children

Must Read: Best Beaches In Malaysia

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2. Menara KL Tower – A Rapunzel-Tower

Menara KL Tower is a prominent Kuala Lumpur tourist spot in Malaysia. Though just 421 m in height, it houses the highest viewing deck in Malaysia. At 276 m, it is around 100 m above the one in Petronas Twin Towers. The spectacular views and prime location of the Menara KKL Tower sees to it that people notice and remember the imposing tower. Erected over the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, it is surrounded by age old trees and fauna which are indigenous to Malaysia.

The overall design of the tower resembles a tower palace from several fables, most prominent being the tower castle from Rapunzel. The architectural style represents the vibrant Islamic heritage and the perfection of a human life. The walls of the tower are dotted with Islamic tiles, Arabic scriptures, and abstract patterns.

The tower houses the famed Atmosphere 360, the revolving restaurant as its crown. Hailed to be the classiest eat-out place in Malaysia, the restaurant offers authentic and continental cuisines. Also, the tower boasts of an amphitheater, a couple of cascading pools, several fast food restaurants, and so much more.

Location: No. 2 Jalan Punchak Off, Jalan P Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 9 am to 10 pm, daily Entry fee: None. However, different charges are applicable to different activities.

3. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – A Free World

Peacock dancing in the lush greenery of Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur” 

Billed as the world’s largest covered bird park, Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is as beautiful as a showpiece. Various colorful birds dancing amidst the flourishing environment of the park add a dash of vibrancy and cheer to the place. The walk-in, free-flight aviary houses over 60 species of local and migratory birds. Feeding sessions are the most fun.

These are several sections for bird watching like World of Parrots, Flamingo Pond, Oriental Aviary, Hornbill Park, Brahminy Land, and Birdlife stations. You may look out for Indian blue peacock, macaws, cockatoos, rhinoceros hornbills, oriental flamingos, parakeets, lories, kites, eagles, and many more interesting birds.

One of the best places to see in Kuala Lumpur for kids, Bird Park is a perfect getaway to educate them and yourselves to everything about world of birds. The landscaped gardens, gushing water streams, cobbled walkways, and extensive playgrounds set perfect background to achieve so. There are rowing boats available to take you through the waterways of the park. Also, you can acquire a binocular-for-hire to actually peruse the interesting activities of your feathery friends.

Location: KL Bird Park, 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 9 am to 6 pm, daily Entry fee: MYR 50 per adult and MYR 41 per child

Suggested Read: Malaysia Nightlife

4. Batu Caves – Ancient Limestone Wonder

Batu Caves have always been one of the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur tourism. This is the illustrious limestone caves that hold three large and several other small temples in them. Touted to be among Kuala Lumpur’s most frequented tourist places, these caves are awe-inspiring in their own right. Some of these caves date back to over 400 million years.

The three major caves, Cathedral Cave, Art Gallery Cave, and Museum Cave, house several Hindu shrines and depictions of Hindu mythology. Minimally decorated with paintings and statues pertaining to the mythology, these caves hold special place for the Hindu community.

However, the caves’ fan-following extends to other communities too. Many non-Hindu tourists and devotees flock to these limestone giants to witness the marvel. There have been many documentaries that showcase the surreal beauty of the caves and also the amazing rituals performed there. You may find ‘kavadis’ during your traverse of 272 steps to the main cave. These kavadis balance heavy water storing structures on their bare shoulders and carry them to the main cave as their offering to Lord Murugan. Also, don’t be astonished if you see a kavadi holding the kavad pierced in his skin.

Location: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia Timings: 6 am to 11 pm, daily Entry fee: None

PS: Batu Caves are at their prime glory during the Hindu festival of Thaipusam. Large gatherings, cheerful ambience, electrifying processions, and echoes of laughter and energy fill the air. If you are planning your trip to Kuala Lumpur towards the end of January, don’t even consider missing this out.

5. Sultan Abdul Samad Building – A Spectacular Heritage Site

Built in 1897, Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of the oldest Moorish style buildings in KL. Today, even though it doesn’t hold any official importance, the building is one of the wonderful places to go in Kuala Lumpur . Its undefinable grandeur and rich heritage make it a historical landmark in the city.

Constructed entirely of bricks, the landmark building features strong, western and Moorish influences in its architecture. There is a wrap-around imposing porch, complete with 42 m high clock tower, towering arches, curved portico topped with copper domes. Named after the then reigning Sultan of Selangor, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of the truly remarkable places for Kuala Lumpur sightseeings and draws in a lot of history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Its mesmerizing evening lighting and decoration make it one of the must see historical places in Kuala Lumpur at night.

Location: Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 10 am to 6 pm, daily Entry fee: None

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kuala Lumpur

6. Sunway Lagoon Theme Park – A Top Tourist Place

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is a heaven for kids and adults, alike. Full of fun-filled and thrilling activities and rides, the theme park comes very high on the list of best tourist places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, even if it is as short as a 3 days trip. A healthy mix of adventure and rides is what this theme park presents. Sectioned into Water Park, Adventure Park, Nickelodeon Park, Scream Park, and more, the theme park is touted to be one of the largest theme parks in the world. The countless fun experiences offered here makes it one of the must visit places in Kuala Lumpur. 

Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Timings: Accessible 24*7, all days of the week Entry fee: MYR 120 for adults and MYR 92 for kids. For Tuesday Specials, it will cost you MYR 50 for all.

7. Aquaria KLCC – A Day With The Sharks

Located in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Aquaria KLCC is an extensive oceanarium in Malaysia. This is one of the most interesting Kuala Lumpur attractions. Home to more than 150 species of aquatic fauna, this 5,000 square feet aquarium is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. Beyond just big tanks full of water, it houses various landscapes and biospheres which take you through coral reefs, marshlands, jungles, highlands, Amazon basin, and open ocean. Cute and deadly marine creatures like piranha, arapaima, grouper, gar fish, elephant nosed fish, electric eel, giant catfish, tiger sharks, seahorses, blue rays, sea snakes, and others decorate the see-through aquariums of Aquaria KLCC.

Not just a submerged tunnel aquarium, but Aquaria also has Amazonian forests, DNA live tanks, dive-in with sharks, Waters of Africa, Scream Park, Extreme Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, and Coral Discovery Section. You can watch the sea animals being fed and might get to feed some, if you are lucky. Since it takes few hours to cover all these levels, it suits the itinerary of those who are open to explore the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days or more.

Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: From 10.30 am to 8 pm, daily Entry fee: MYR 46 per adult, MYR 35 per child, and MYR 35 per senior citizen

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur For Adventure

8. National Mosque Of Malaysia – A Unique Steel Mosque

The National Mosque of Malaysia, Masjid Negara is one-of-its-kind steel mosque with exquisite artistry and palatial grandeur. There are several water features and open areas which give you a glimpse into the modern Muslim architecture. Colorful decorations in light pale and turquoise colors highlight the refreshing ambience of this pilgrim.

Open to Muslims as well as non-Muslims, the marvelous mosque is one of the best places to see in Kuala Lumpur. Exhibits depicting Islam culture enrapture many. An hour or two would be enough to complete your circle tour of the mosque, which means it is one of the musts in your itinerary of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days.

Location: Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 9.30 am to 6.30 pm, from Saturdays to Thursdays. On Fridays, from 3 pm to 6.30 pm. Please note that the mosque is inaccessible to non-Muslims during the prayer time, i.e. 12 pm to 3 pm and 4 pm to 5.30 pm. Entry fee: None

PS: Tourists with inadequate attire (with any part of arms, legs, or head on display) will be required to adorn a purple robe. The robe will be provided free of cost and from the premises of the mosque. Please ensure that you don’t harm sanctity of this religious place. Also, it is a given to remove your shoes before you enter the shrine.

9. Little India – A Nostalgic Place For Indians

Image credit: Shutterstock

Brickfields, or Little India as it is popularly known, is the center for all the Indian junta of the city. A famous tourist place in Kuala Lumpur, people flock to this miniature India to gorge on Indian delicacies and befriend Indian people. Many anecdotes are shared over the cup of coffee in the side food-joints here. Indian clothing with a dash of Malaysian touch is bought by many.

It’s surreal to witness the streets of Kuala Lumpur bustling with energy and cheeriness similar to Indian bazaars . Bright decorations, colorful facades, sweet shops, India brands and a lot that reminds you of India awaits here. The festive, full-blown decorations during the major festivals like Diwali and Holi can take even the Indians for a spin. The richness and authentic nature cannot be questioned by any.

Location: NA Timings: Always accessible Entry fee: None applicable

Suggested Read: Best Honeymoon Resorts In Malaysia

10. Jalan Alor – Haunt For All The Foodies

This is the best hawker food you can ever get and is also one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur at night! And this is no exaggeration, we are just stating the fact. From air-conditioned restaurants to food hawkers to street side carts, Jalan Alor has it all. Just a whiff of the aromas wafting from this street is enough to tempt and draw you to the delicious food.

At Jalan Alor, taste different cuisines of Malaysia including delicacies like barbecued meat, sprinkled satay, spiced-up seafood, and messy finger-food. Delishness of the dishes goes up tenfold as you savor them amidst the atmospheric breeze and strung up Chinese lanterns. Florescent lights and spaced trees enrich the experience all the more.

For those who don’t like the heat emanating from furiously crinkling grills can opt for covered air-conditioned restaurants. While the experience will be altogether different, the food’s taste will be equally relishing and fulfilling. Needless to say, it is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

Location: Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: None; you can visit the food street anytime but the real liveliness erupts at nights. Entry fees: No fees

11. Suria KLCC – Visit The Famous Petronas Tower

Suria KLCC is one of the best places to visit in kuala lumpur for free for locals as well as tourists. The 6-storey mall offers you some exciting as well as informative galleries here. The mall is not only a place of visit for the brand conscious but also has famous tourist attractions like Petrosains and the Aquaria KLCC. Divided into three centres – Ampang Mall, new Ramlee Mall and Park Mall, Suria KLCC is also home to Malaysia’s first concert hall.

Location: Jalan Ampang, Golden Triangle, Kuala Lumpur city centre, 50088 Timings: 10:00AM to 10:00PM Entry fees: Free

Suggested Read: Malaysia Tourist Attractions

12. Kuala Lumpur City Gallery – Know The City Better

Kuala Lumpur City Gallery is the most famous tourist places in Kuala Lumpur. This fun place will provide you with all the information about Kuala Lumpur. You can get a free copy of the Kuala Lumpur Tours Map as well as guiding bicycle if you are in a mood to explore the town. The Gold Award winning city gallery owned by ARCH also demonstrates the city’s past, present and future with the help of a sound and a light presentation.

Location: Dataran Merdeka, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur Timings: 9.00AM to 6.30PM Entry fees: INR 165

13. Tugu Negara – Explore The National Monument

This is one of the best Kuala Lumpur tourist attractions. Located at a walking distance from a well known Lake Gardens Kuala Lumpur, the National Monument is a historical sculpture which was built to pay respect to those Malaysians who lost their lives fighting for Malaya’s independence. While you are here visiting the National Monument, do drop by the famous nearby attractions such as Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, Deer Park and also Butterfly Park. The historic structure Tugu Negara is also the tallest freestanding group of bronze sculptures.

Location: Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur, 50480 Timings: 7.00AM to 6.00PM Entry fees: Not Applicable

Suggested Read: Backpacking In Malaysia

14. Berjaya Times Square – Shapoholic’s Choice

Berjaya Times Square is a one-stop venue for great shopping, entertainment and dining experience. The largest indoor theme park has an adult zone called the Galaxy Station and the kids’ area popularly called the Fantasy Garden. It is one of the best places to visit with family when the weather outside is not favourable to explore the city or when you want to shop till you drop.

Location: Level 5, Berjaya Times Square, No.1, Jalan Imbi, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Monday – Friday 12:00PM to 10:00PM, Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM to 10:00PM Entry fees: Adult RM 70, INR 1160 Child (ages 3-12) RM 65, INR 1077 Seniors (ages 55 and above) RM 30, INR 497

15. Forest Eco Park – Canopy Walkaway

Image Source: Shutterstock

Formerly known as Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, the eco-forest reserve is one of the oldest forest reserves in Malaysia. The major highlight of the place is an impressive 200m canopy walk that offers visitors with an excellent aerial view of the treetops and the city from a distance.

Location: Bukit Nanas, Jalan Puncak, Off Jalan P. Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur Timings: 07:00AM to 6:00PM Entry fees: Free

Suggested Read: Malaysia Islands

16. National Science Centre – For The Curious Ones

Image source: Shutterstock

This is one of the most interesting Kuala Lumpur attractions. Among the educational places to visit in Kuala Lumpur is the National Science Centre which is absolute fun for kids who love science. The exhibits cover a gamut of scientific theories. You are first greeted by the overhead freshwater aquarium and you then proceed to the exhibits. Make sure you wait back for the science show, beamed straight into the main dome.

Location: Pesiaran Bukit Kiara, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Entry fees: INR 50 – INR 100

17. Connaught Market – Shop Till You Drop

Something to look forward to every Wednesday is the Connaught Night Market, which is among the very popular places to visit in Kuala Lumpur. With over 700 stalls along a 2km road, you’re sure to find anything and everything here. Shop for accessories, bags, clothing, books, handicrafts, food and household items, all at reasonable prices. Make sure to try out the Laksa and Satay here, as well as the creamy desserts. Also, be very careful with your personal belongings, because owing to the short duration of the market, it is extremely crowded, especially after 7:00 pm. Location:  Jalan Cerdas, Taman Connaught, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur Timings: Wednesday 5:30 PM – 12 AM Entry fees:  Free

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur

18. Titiwangsa Lake Garden – Take A Stroll

The Titiwangsa Lake Garden is a great place to relax at and enjoy some recreational activities with friends and family. It is among the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in one day excursion where you can go canoeing, aqua-biking, enjoy a sprint on the jogging tracks, go horse riding, and kids can play at the radio control car racing track which is immense fun. If you feel like doing nothing, grab some food and drinks sold near the lake, and sit by the lakeside enjoying your own little picnic. The park is in close proximity to the National Theatre and Art Gallery, so don’t forget to pay them a visit as well.

Location: Tasik Titiwangsa, 53200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM Entry fees:  Free

19. Istana Budaya – Cultural Palace

This places has to be on your list for Kuala Lumpur sightseeing. The Istana Budaya or also known as the Palace of Culture, is Malaysia’s main venue for all types of theatre including musical theatre, operetta, classical concerts and opera from local and international performances. It is located in heart of Kuala Lumpur city, next to the National Art Gallery. Called Istana Budaya, the Cultural Palace is Kuala Lumpur’s National Theatre. It is the country’s main venue for local and international plays and performances and is rated as the world’s top 10 most sophisticated theatres. Being the first theatre in Asia with state-of-the-art equipment, Istana Budaya’s eye-catching feature is the turquoise-blue tiled roof. The centre also hosts free live music and dance outside the front gate on Saturdays, while cheap food stalls are set-up in close proximity.

Location: Jalan Tun Razak, Titiwangsa, 50694 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM Entry fees: INR 170 – INR 200

Further Read: Malaysia Tourist Attractions

Now, do you feel ready for your trip to Kuala Lumpur? The growing city full of rich history and culture has a lot in store for you. Wait no longer and plan a trip to Kuala Lumpur . Head to this beautiful city with your friends or family and we promise that you will be spoilt for choice considering there are so many places to see.

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

Which are best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur on a 2 day trip?

Some of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur on a 2 day trip include: 1. Petronas Towers 2. KL Tower 3. Batu Caves 4. Masjid Negara 5. Petaling Street

Which are places to visit in Kuala Lumpur with family?

Some of the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur with family include: 1. Petronas Towers 2. KL Tower 3. Selangor River – Firefly Boat Tour 4. Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary 5. Petaling Street

What can you do in Kuala Lumpur for free?

Here are some of the top free things to do in Kuala Lumpur: 1. Explore Kuala Lumpur Cultural Craft Complex 2. Relax at the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park 3. Visit Masjid Negara 4. Window shop at Petaling Street Market

How many days do you need in Kuala Lumpur?

A 3-day trip to Kuala Lumpur is enough for exploring its popular tourist sights. These places are located close to each other. It will also allow you to cover Batu Caves or Putrajaya city.

Where can I watch the sunset in Kuala Lumpur?

Some of the best places to witness a sunset in Kuala Lumpur include: 1. KL Tower 2. Petronis Twin Towers 3. SkyBar Kuala Lumpur 4. Marini’s On 57 5. Atmosphere 360

What is the best month to visit Kuala Lumpur?

May to July and December to February are the best months to visit Kuala Lumpur. These months have suitable weather for visiting.

Where can I spend a day in Kuala Lumpur?

If you are only in Kuala Lumpur for a day or are planning a 24-hour itinerary for this destination, we would recommend a visit to 1. The Petronas Towers, Aquaria KLCC 2. Batu Caves 3. Sultan Abdul Building and then shopping in the evening.

How can I spend 3 days in Kuala Lumpur?

If you are only in Kuala Lumpur for three days or are planning a 72-hour itinerary for this destination, we would recommend a visit to 1. Thean Hou Temple 2. Little India 3. National Mosque 4. Central Market 5. Chinatown, Petaling Street 6. Petronas Towers

What are Kuala Lumpur famous for?

Kuala Lumpur is a prominent city of Malaysia that will amaze you with its beauty and gorgeous landscapes. Some of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur are Petronas Twin Towers, Menara Kuala Lumpur, National Mosque of Malaysia, and Sunway Lagoon.

What is unique about Kuala Lumpur?

The world’s tallest building Petronas Twin Towers is in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with a height of 452 meters.

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21 Top Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur With Kids [2024]

Going on a Kuala Lumpur trip with the family and want to know all the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids? We have you covered! Below, you will find our Kuala Lumpur travel guide to all the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to plan your ultimate trip.

Wondering what to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids? Well, you’ve come to the right place! With a myriad of kids activities in KL and family activities in KL, we help you narrow down the best-of-the-best!

Aside from extensive sightseeing, there’s an amazing array of kids entertainment in Kuala Lumpur with so many shopping malls hosting spectacular mini-theme parks or amusement arcades.  

We’ve also listed some of the best wildlife and nature-themed things to do in Kuala Lumpur with family, and fun places for kids in KL when the weather turns sour.

Our top 21 things to do in Kuala Lumpur with kids guide kicks off in central KL with the fun Playground at KLCC. For kids a little older, we review the nearby Aquaria, and for all age groups, the mega fun KidZania.

We have visited Kuala Lumpur so many times with our kids ranging from babies to 13 years old and have always had a great time.

For sure, you won’t be stuck thinking where to bring kids in KL. More likely, you’ll be stressing over how to cram everything in!

Below, you will find our Kuala Lumpur travel blog guide with everything you need to know about the Kuala Lumpur top attractions, where to go in KL surrounds as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday in Kuala Lumpur. There is also a handy Kuala Lumpur tourist map.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Top 21 Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur With Kids [2024]

Here are the best things to do in KL with kids. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and time frame. We have written about these attractions based on our own experiences travelling here with babies, toddlers, preschoolers, school kids and, now, teenagers!

Travelling to Malaysia with kids? Listen to our best tips for families here and find out what my kids themselves think about travelling in Malaysia.

Explore The KLCC Playground

Best playground in the world? Possibly! Our kids rave about the KLCC Playground. So much, in fact, that we had to return a few times during our first visit to KL and many times since. So this received our highest rating: best place for kids in KL!

The KLCC Playground is a massive 2-acres playground within the KLCC Park by the Petronas Towers. Even during busier times, you’ll find there is still plenty of space for everyone. The two photos above this are both of this area.

We recommend visiting in the late afternoon as it’s cooler. Also, as the top Kuala Lumpur attractions for families, both locals and visitors hang out here in the late afternoon, so there are lots of youngsters to enjoy playing with and it has a great vibe.

If energy levels are still high, head to the free adjacent water playground and shallow pools. Definitely the biggest problem we had with this place was getting our kids to leave.

Address: Persiaran KLCC, Jalan Ipoh, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan

Visit The Petrosains Discovery Centre

An awesome centre, which is basically a science museum, children adore spending time here, making this a highlight of places to visit in KL for kids.  There are so many hands-on educational exhibits that you could easily spend 3-4 hours as your children conduct science experiments – some with controlled explosions!

Science and technology are presented in a fun and entertaining way, in an easy to navigate “museum-style” concept.  You’ll find space age exhibits through to fossils, with everything divided into 11 main interactive showcases.

Budding geologists or seismologists will be in heaven in the Exploration section and F1 fans will adore the Speed area.  And ensure to catch the Dark Ride, shaped like an oil drop, your “ride” takes you through serene rainforests, up mountains and diving into seas, all with a view to showing you Malaysia’s dramatic landscapes.

Games are dotted around the exhibitions with staff on hand to explain the science behind everything. 

It works for toddlers too as the first time we visited here, our oldest was only 2, and we had a great time.

However long you’re staying in the city, we recommend you include this great kids attraction in Kuala Lumpur into your itinerary.

Address: Petronas Twin Tower, Level 4, Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Click here to buy discounted tickets now.

Have An Under-The-Sea Experience At Aquaria KLCC

Conveniently located next to the Petronas Towers and close to Petrosains listed above, this aquarium is a must-see on any list of things for kids to do in KL.  Home to over 150 species of marine life, possibly the star attractions are the tiger sharks and the lethal sea snakes!

A great place to discover on a rainy day, you can spend a few hours exploring the different watery landscapes, from the highlands and flooded jungles of Malaysia to the Amazon basin, coral reefs and open ocean.

Our highlight was the 90-metres walk-through tunnel, where massive stingrays and manta rays soar above your heads.  And, if you have the time, dare you to try the up-close-and-personal Diving with Sharks program or perhaps the Cage Rage experience where you’ll be submerged into a tank but within the safety of a cage. 

All in all, we found this one of the best places for kids in KL.

Address: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Visit The Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

Surprisingly, some shopping centres in this city are some of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for kids.  And Berjaya Times Square is probably the top of these. 

Reputedly one of the world’s largest shopping centres, we seemed to spend a lot of time here!  With great food options – at good prices – the kids were kept entertained by some rather cool random stuff.  The “Piano Stairs”, that played piano notes as we walked up and down was definitely a highlight!

However, the standout attraction was the amusement park – probably best suited for preschoolers, making this our winner for toddler activities in Kuala Lumpur.  The children’s area has around eight different rides, although there are rides here for all ages.

Overall, this is the largest indoor playground in Malaysia and can be found on the fifth floor of the Berjaya Times Square mall.  Split into two zones: Galaxy Station for adults (+13’s) and Fantasy Garden for children, whatever your child’s age group this is some of the best kids entertainment in KL.

This is fantastic for bad weather days or if you’re suddenly in the mood for a hair-raising roller coaster ride on the Supersonic Odyssey!

Address: Level 8, Berjaya Time Square, No. 1, Jalan Imbi

Check Out The KL Bird Park

The main attraction in the famous 60 hectare Lake Gardens, the KL Bird Park is advertised as the world’s largest covered bird park and a top venue in KL for kids.  With over 30,000 birds from 200 species from all corners of the globe, it’s quite an adventure!

It prides itself on being one of the major places to visit in Kuala Lumpur with family, and with most of the birds free to fly around the venue, this was another highlight of our trip.  Accustomed to visitors, the birds often perch on shoulders and heads, which might frighten toddlers. 

But for most children this is delightful and you can then purchase small packets of seed to hand-feed them.  We took endless photos whilst hand feeding colourful parrots, which our children rated as one of the best kids activities in Kuala Lumpur.

You’ll see stunning peacocks, parakeets and macaws. Our favourite was the Flamingo Pond and the hornbill area.  Try to time it right for the ostrich and eagles feeding sessions or to catch one of the regular bird shows.  

It’s not just the birds that are great either. The gardens here are superb, and it’s a very enjoyable place to wander.

Children are very well catered for here with a small playground, the gardens and even some small rowing boats.  If you are wondering what to do in Kuala Lumpur with family and have a half morning spare in your itinerary, make a beeline for here.

Address: 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens

Visit The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

Looking for a nature-intensive kids attraction in KL?  Then you’ve come to the right place.  Just on the edge of KL Lake Gardens, you’ll find hundreds of butterflies fluttering freely under a high netting canopy at the sweet Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park.

Feeding on colourful hibiscus flowers, the butterflies are a pretty sight.  Hot and humid under the canopy, the park has a tropical feel. There is a maze of footpaths winding through lush vegetation.  Our children enjoyed playing along the paths, the little koi-filled ponds, small waterfalls and – our top favourite – the turtle pond.  

Our kids also found the massive beetles a highlight.  These can be viewed along with some other creepy crawlies, such as large stick insects making this one of the fun places for kids in Kuala Lumpur.  There’s also a fairly good educational slant to the visit too with the breeding cycles of butterflies and moths explained.

Not the best butterfly park we’ve been to, yet you can still mark this as one of the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for family to enjoy.

Address: Jalan Cenderawasih, Tasik Perdana

Explore The Lake Gardens (Kuala Lumpur Perdana Botanical Gardens)

Often promoted as having some of the best Kuala Lumpur activities for families within its gates, Lake Gardens is truly massive at over 200 acres!  

Full of Kuala Lumpur children’s attractions, such as museums, the KL Bird Park (above), the Perdana Botanical Garden (with a Hibiscus and Orchid Garden), a Sculpture Garden, the Butterfly Park (above) and, unsurprisingly, a Lake!

In the middle of KL, it makes for an easy location to reach from wherever you’re staying.  Open every day from 7am to 8pm, it’s free to enter – though you are required to pay an entrance fee for certain landmarks within the grounds, like KL Bird Park.

There are some impressive landscaping and thanks to its grand size; it doesn’t get too crowded except for weekends.  You can easily spend a whole day here, discovering all the different venues and activities. This makes this one of our top places for kids in Kuala Lumpur.

Do note though that this area is big and walking around it can be sweaty work.

Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana

Go On A Food Tour

If your kids enjoy food then a food tour can be a surprisingly awesome activity with kids. I have been surprised how well food tours can work for families.

You walk around a section of the city learning about the history and the culture while trying food and drinks. I find the constant feeding keeps my kids happy and open to learning more!

Simply Enak food tours  have a tour they especially recommend for families, Kuala Lumpur Street Food. On this tour, you learn about the history and cultural influences that make Kuala Lumpur and its food what it is today. It includes visits to local shops, tradespeople and, of course, street food vendors. You learn about traditional Chinese medicine and how herbs can be used to heal as well.

We did this with our kids aged 6, 11 and 12 at the time. They loved watching handmade steam buns being made and tasting a crazy amount of food and drinks such as Indian rotis, laksa, char kway teow, teh tarik (the local tea), baked goods and more. If you haven’t tried the infamous durian before, you’ll also get the chance with some durian puffs.

These tours do their best to cater to dietary requirements and fussy eaters.

Click here to see more information about this tour and use the discount code, DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour price. Kids tickets are also heavily discounted.

You can see our full review of doing this tour with our kids here or watch the following video to see what it’s like. This was filmed when we did this exact tour with our kids.

Visit Little India

A surprising favourite location for our children, enamoured by the Indian cuisine and vibrant energy of the area, Kuala Lumpur’s Little India (called Brickfields) has curries to fit every level of spice!  We returned quite a few times for some delicious lunches.

And the shops were a highlight too, with lots of sparkly bangles, colourful saris and delicious Indian sweets. 

Try to visit here during festival time, when the streets are decorated in splendid colours and music plays from almost every shop!  It’s definitely one of the more interesting places in Kuala Lumpur for kids.

Address: Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields

Explore Chinatown

Looking for some free things to do in KL with family?  Head over to Chinatown for a few hours, and wander the quaint alleys and lanes.  You’ll find stalls selling almost anything you need (and lots more that you don’t!).  

With the stalls opening daily around 11am, it’s best to drop by around lunchtime – taking in some delicious food – before hitting the market area.  You’ll also find some old temples and pretty Chinese shophouses, making this a lovely way to spend a few hours in Kuala Lumpur with children.

The food tour, mentioned above, explores around here.

Address: Petaling Street, KL City Centre

Make A Splash At Sunway Lagoon

Just a short drive from the centre of Kuala Lumpur, Sunway Lagoon is a fun theme park.  One of the top KL attractions for family, many different themed lands are waiting to be explored.  

With water slides that whirl, a river ride, surf beach, wave pool and even a revolving pirate ship, this will probably be your kid’s favourite vacation day, and our pick of fun things to do in Kuala Lumpur for kids!  We had an absolute blast here.

Part of a much larger complex, which incorporates the Water Park, Scream Park, Amusement Park, X Park, Night Park, Sunway Lost Lagoon and Wildlife Park, it is best to make this a full day out!

Address: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

Click here to buy discounted tickets now. You can also read our full review here.

Check Out The Sunway Pyramid

Located adjacent to the Sunway Lagoon, the Sunway Pyramid Shopping Centre has a plethora of fun activities.  Spend a half or full day here. Enjoy ice skating and visiting The Parenthood indoor play area.

For the older children, there’s a bowling alley, cinema, amusement rides, and arcade games; a plethora of Kuala Lumpur children’s activities.  

Near KL Airport, if you only have a short stopover combine this with a visit to the Sunway Lagoon, and stay at any one of the Sunway hotels above the shopping centre, like the Sunway Resort here.

Address: No. 3, Jalan PJS 11/15, Sunway City, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Have The Best Day Ever At KidZania Kuala Lumpur

Our children were already big fans of KidZania before visiting the Kuala Lumpur version. It did not disappoint. We have enjoyed a few full days discovering KidZania Kuala Lumpur over the years, and it’s our absolute top pick of kid friendly activities in Kuala Lumpur

If you’ve never been to one then KidZania is a miniature city made for kids where they can undertake various activities representing different careers. Kids can be firefighters, medics, police, store clerks, cooks, pilots, journalists, doctors, nurses, photographers, couriers and even tax collectors.

Each “career” lasts for various amounts of time – usually 15 or 20 minutes – and for each activity, there’s usually an educational aspect to it. For example, kids learn the value of hygiene before making food or fire safety before going to fight a fire.

Kids can earn money (in the local currency, Kidzos) from the jobs they do and get paid in Kidzoswhich can then be spent on activities with a cost where they usually get something to take away (like a hamburger from working in the hamburger restaurant or milk from working in the milk bottling factory).

There’s a department store where kids can spend their earnings too, but it isn’t so easy to do as you need a lot of cash to buy much.

The awesome thing about KidZania, though, is the staggering level of detail. Kids can be involved in organisations they see in the real world.

Many activities have a uniform of some sort that looks close to the real thing. Firefighters wear hats and coats that look like real Malaysian firefighting gear, for example.  There’s even a small ambulance and fire truck that the medics and firefighters ride to their call-outs complete with lights and sirens.

Activities have age guides with many recommended for ages 4+. Younger kids may strugg to get much out of a visit here.  On our most recent visit, my daughter was just a month off 13 and still absolutely loved it.

However, for the majority of visitors to the city, a day here is a highlight of family things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

Address: Curve NX, 18, Jalan PJU 7/5, Mutiara Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Click here to buy discounted tickets now or read our full guide to visiting KidZania KL here.

Experience District 21 Kuala Lumpur

Guess what? Yes, that’s right… It’s another indoor theme park for children! This time billed as an “adventure theme park”, District 21 is set within 101 City Mall Putrajaya. 

However, it’s quite different here as children face a set of challenging obstacle courses making it one of the more unique activities for kids in Kuala Lumpur.

Sprawling across 6,500 square metres, this indoor theme park features a post-apocalyptic setting with metal beams, steel walls and colourful graffiti.  You can imagine the Terminator being very at home here!  

Guests pass through a two-step decontamination chamber – where they’ll be asked to put on protective gloves and non-slip socks.  Briefed on a few safety rules, they are released into the park to discover LED-lit climbing walls, high-speed slides, trampolines and aerial obstacle courses and a zipline.

Our favourite section was the Maze, where you’re suspended metres above the ground and have to maneuver through a labyrinth of steel tunnels, cages and complete some rather confusing mind-challenging puzzles!  

For younger children, there are a few kid-friendly rides such as a carousel, pedal go-karts and an easy rope obstacle course.  

Safety is well addressed, with padded flooring, helmets, knee and elbow pads.  Terrific fun and a favourite for most youngsters, this is our select venue for kid-friendly things to do in Kuala Lumpur! Although note it’s about a half hour drive from KL Sentral.

Address: AT 6, IOI City Mall, IOI Resort City, 62502 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya

Enjoy At Waterworld i-City Theme Park

Attached to the ever-popular i-City, fast becoming one of Shah Alam’s and Selangor’s top tourist attractions, Waterworld i-City is a great fun water theme park.

Only 40 minutes outside the city centre, your kids will have a blast riding some great water rides.  The highlight is the vortex ride, known as the Ultimate Tornado.  Image you’re caught in flowing water, dropping from a faucet and spiralling down a plug hole, and that’s the Tornado!  

There are also 4 slides within the waterpark, where you can race your friends and family lying face down on rubber mats.  There’s also a family raft slide, where 4 people ride a rubber tube.  And, for younger children, there are kiddies-twin-slides – slightly tamer but still excellent fun.

After the slides, the whole family can enjoy the artificial wave pool, bobbing up and down, with or without a tube.  And there’s a lazy river to glide along and a colourful Aladdin-themed kids play-pool.

With vigilant lifeguards, lockers and clean surroundings, it’s great fun for a morning or afternoon.

Address: i-Gallery, Jalan Multimedia 7/Ah, I-City, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor

Have Fun At SkyTrex Adventure

Seeking some serious fun and adrenaline-inducing activities?  Wondering what to do in Kuala Lumpur for kids that is extraordinary? Spend a day at SkyTrex Adventure, with outdoor zip line obstacle courses, rope-climbing and flying fox, all set in the lush Shah Alam Agricultural Park.

45 minutes outside of KL, you and kids will spend your day swinging, climbing and flying!

Divided into three obstacle courses – according to difficulties and each with minimum height restrictions – the venue is only open at weekends and it’s advisable to book ahead. Children under 12 years are required to have a parent/guardian in attendance throughout.

The easiest course – Little Adventure – is ideal for children around 8 years. The second is Big Thrill, more geared towards adults but children below 13 who reach the minimum height requirement can still join in.

Take a picnic (don’t forget your charcoal if you want to BBQ), and dine at the elevated wooden platform, the Skydeck.  Our older kids rated this as the best place for kids in Kuala Lumpur!

Address: Batu 20, 1/2, Jalan Sungai Congkak, Kampung Padang, 43100 Hulu Langat, Selangor

Explore The Farm In The City

Located in Seri Kembangan, Farm In The City is ideal for lovers of the outdoors.  

Divided into several sections, our favourites were the reptile corner and the bird aviary.  You’ll also find turtle and tortoise sections, a snake sanctuary, along with deer, bunnies, iguanas, marmosets and peacocks.

This is a top venue for interacting with animals – from photos to hand-feeding. With animals that seem extremely well cared for, this makes for an enjoyable trip!

Address: Lot 40187-40188, Jalan Prima Tropika Barat 1, Pusat Bandar Putra Permai, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor

Check Out The Kuala Lumpur National Zoo And Aquarium – Zoo Negara

As zoos go, this isn’t the best, but if you have a free morning and are wondering where to go in Kuala Lumpur for kids, the Zoo is always an option.  And, if your kids are up for seeing some animals, there are lots to be found here.  Wild animals from most parts of the world are on display including leopard cats, pumas, leopards, striped hyenas and many more. 

You’ll also find a Reptile Park with a fair selection of snakes, a Malaysian Elephants exhibit and Sumatran orang-utans in the open-concept Ape Centre.  

Inside the zoo is also one of Malaysia’s oldest public aquariums, along with a kid-friendly exhibit called Children’s World.  Here, your youngsters will enjoy getting up close with rabbits, ducks, chickens, parrots and guinea pigs.  

Be sure to glimpse the newest additions, two pandas from Sichuan, China, and catch an exciting animal show.

Address: Jalan Taman Zooview, Taman Zooview, 68000 Ampang, Selangor

Introduce Your Kids To Malaysian Food At Jalan Alor Food Street

When the sun starts going down, there is one hands-down winner to what our family likes to do and that’s head to Jalan Alor Food Street.

Jalan Alor Food Street is a lively night market with open air tables, stalls, restaurants and more. It’s got a great vibe and it’s tons of fun. It’s also located in a great central spot within Bukit Bintang which makes it easy for most families to visit.

For about 500 metres, there are countless food stalls and restaurants lining the street. You won’t have any problems finding something to eat. Try to order as many different things as you can so your kids can learn what they like.

A great reward for the kids trying new foods is to finish up with some delicious coconut ice cream. It’s sold by many stalls in fresh coconut shells, and it’s oh-so-good.

Address: Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang

Click here to read our full guide to Jalan Alor Food Street.

Go Theme Park Crazy In The Genting Highlands

For somewhere close to Kuala Lumpur that you can visit on a day trip, the Genting Highlands sure feels like a long way away.

Located over 1,800 metres up, Resorts World Genting is much cooler than in Kuala Lumpur and is full of crazy fun things to do including both indoor and outdoor theme parks. Just getting here is fun with a gondola to get you to the top.

At the top, there are many kid friendly attractions, with the recently opened SkyWorlds theme park likely to be the winner. With over 26 rides spread over nine differently themed worlds, there are rides here from thrilling roller coasters for your teenager to awesome 4D experiences for the whole family.

The park themes are based on animations and include Ice Age, Rio and Robotos among others, making this a great place for kids. Kids can also meet their favorite characters and take photos with them

You can read how to get to Genting Highlands here or click here for the full range of activities to do when you get here. This is a great place to go if you have a full day and are happy to head out of the city.

Click here for discounted tickets to SkyWorlds now.

Visit The Islamic Arts Museum

Last on our list of things for kids to do but high on the places of interest for kids in Kuala Lumpur, this is somewhere to teach your children a little about the customs, history and culture of Malaysia.  Welcome to the Islamic Arts Museum.  

A wonderfully quiet and cool respite from the manic city, this museum is one of the best we’ve ever visited.  With around 7000 artefacts there’s lots to view!  There are Islamic tapestries, hand-written Korans, carpets, jewellery and scale models of Islamic buildings.  

The museum also caters to younger children, with a children’s library, daily craft and weekend workshops.  

Address: Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, Wilayah Persekutuan

What To Do In KL With Kids Map

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience in KL?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

There are three different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food, nightlife or off the beaten track places.

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Kuala Lumpur.

There’s no better way to discover this great city.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

Best Place To Stay In Kuala Lumpur

Generally, a cheaper city to visit, even the high-end hotels can offer exceptional value compared to what you would pay in other capitals, and there is a great range of hotels suitable for families.

A sprawling city, the best areas to stay are Bukit Bintang and KLCC with Chinatown being a good option if you are on a tighter budget.

Below, I’ve listed a few different places to consider including a budget, mid-range and more expensive option.

BEST – PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur Hotel Review

If you love shopping, then the Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur Hotel is set in the best district for you.  Only 500 metres from the famed shopping area of Bintang Walk and Sungei Weng Plaza, and with Chinatown less than 3 kilometres away, you have a myriad of shopping options! Jalan Alor Food Street is super close too.

Rooms come with a flatscreen tv, tea & coffee facilities, minibar and – for peace of mind – a safety deposit box.  Splurge and upgrade to the Orchid Club Rooms to enjoy luxurious club benefits in the private lounge.

You’ll find a restaurant for fine-dining and a cafe for more casual meals.  There’s also a comfortable lounge for drinks and evening entertainment.  

After your busy days of tours and activities, enjoy cooling off in the outdoor pool or refresh at the 24-hour fitness centre.  Whatever your plans, this is a great hotel close to all the action.

Click here for the latest prices.

MID-RANGE –  Berjaya Times Square Hotel Kuala Lumpur Review

Our personal family favourite hotel, you really can’t beat a stay here.  With direct access to the Berjaya Times Square shopping mall – one of the largest shopping centres in Malaysia, full of family activities and dining outlets – the hotel is set in a prime position.

You’ll find rooms are comfortable, with ensuite bathrooms, minibar and entertainment system with cable television.  There are many different rooms to choose from, depending on the size of your group or family, and bedding such as bunks, twin, queen and king. 

There are family rooms with bunk beds or two-bedroom suites which are fantastic for families. You can also upgrade to Club Rooms for exemplary service and extras like lounge access.

With two restaurants, a lounge bar and a huge outdoor pool, fitness centre and wellness centre… you might find it hard to leave the hotel and you definitely won’t want to leave the shopping centre!

Click here for the latest prices or here to read our full review.

BUDGET – Travelodge City Centre Review

Location is everything here, with the Travelodge City Centre being set just 200 metres from Petaling Street and the Central Market.  It’s also only 600 metres from the famous Merdeka Square and three kilometres to the vibrant Bukit Bintang area. All up, this make for a fantastic base from which to explore the city.

Air-conditioned rooms with ensuite bathrooms are offered, most with flatscreen television and free toiletries.  

Rooms come in three different types – Superior Twin, Superior Double and Family Room. Additional hotel features include luggage storage facilities, 24-hour front desk and currency exchange.  

This is an ideal choice for those on a budget but wishing to be near all the sights that KL has to offer. Note that many reviews complain that rooms aren’t cleaned sufficiently though.

Click here to see all our recommendations for exactly where to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

How To Get To Kuala Lumpur

It’s easy to get to Kuala Lumpur by flight, bus, train, taxi or car. 

To see all the latest flights and prices, click here .

If you need to take a bus, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices .

If you’d prefer a train, click here to see the latest train timetables .

You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here .

Final Words

It’s no secret that we love Kuala Lumpur.  Packed full with attractions, delicious food and very easy to get around, it’s fantastic for families. 

You’ll never be stuck wondering where to go in KL with kids. In fact, we’ve returned a handful of times and will go again!  We find most attractions and services very reasonably priced and everyone extremely welcoming, especially to children and babies.  

If you want more tips for travelling with kids in Malaysia, don’t miss our podcast episode here . My kids even give their own tips for other kids.

Looking for something more organised? Find our list of best tours in KL here . Travelling to KL without kids? Then check out our guide on things to do in KL here – or read out KL itinerary here . Otherwise, you can find our full Kuala Lumpur guide here .

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

T O BORROW from the poet Mary Oliver, what will you do with your few wild and precious vacation days? Now’s the time for figuring that out—and after looking at the latest travel trends, notable openings and immersive itineraries, we’ve got ideas. On this list of the 10 places we’re most excited about visiting this year, you’ll find spots still refreshingly free of tourist crowds but also new reasons to love the blockbuster destinations you thought you already knew. Whatever your preferred style of travel—from island-hopping by canoe in the Land of 10,000 Lakes to following your stomach around one of South America’s most exciting culinary hubs—we’re confident something here will unlock an urge to pack up and go.

The pandemic might have brought Belmond’s swanky Eastern & Oriental Express train to a temporary halt, but the luxury travel company used the downtime to refresh the train’s wood-paneled cabins with wickerwork and Malaysian embroidery, and brought Taiwanese chef André Chiang on board to steer restaurants that will feature a fusion of Southeast Asian cuisines. The train’s new routes, which launch in February, spotlight Malaysia’s wildly diverse landscapes. Excursions include Vespa tours around historic George Town, beach breaks on jungle-cloaked Langkawi island and treks in the rainforests of Taman Negara to spot hornbills, tapirs, and—for the very lucky—Malayan tigers. Fresh hotel openings in Kuala Lumpur, a food-mad city that just launched its first Michelin guide, make for an excellent excuse to linger before heading to the train station. Homegrown brand Else Retreats opened its first boutique hotel in the 1930s Lee Rubber Building in Chinatown, and the Park Hyatt will soon take over the top floors of Merdeka 118, the second-tallest tower in the world.

Lamu, Kenya

Kenya’s wildlife-rich safari parks remain its main draw, but new developments in Lamu, a palm-tufted island just off the country’s northeastern coast, offer sunseekers a pleasingly culture-packed and hushed alternative to the big-ticket resorts of Mombasa and Zanzibar. Global highfliers weathered the pandemic in the whitewashed luxury villas of Lamu’s ritzy Shela village, but the new Jannah Lamu, a scattered collection of suites by Kenya-raised designer Anna Trzebinski, makes the cobblestoned Old Town, East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlement, newly enticing. The recently launched NaiSabah, a traditional Omani dhow boat with three staterooms and a breezy deck decorated with intricate woodwork, offers multi-night itineraries around the Lamu archipelago, promising days packed with beach picnics, diving expeditions and nature walks. Finally, the Lamu Museum, which reopened last October after a year-long refurbishment, delivers a dose of cultural and historical context to this fascinating one-time trading hub—and a welcome respite from all that sunshine.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

The “Black Summer” bush fires of 2019-2020 destroyed half of its wildlife habitat, but in the years since, Kangaroo Island—9 miles off Australia’s southern coast—has bounced back. Nicknamed Australia’s Galápagos, this 1,700-square-mile speck of land is once again one of the best places to encounter wild koalas and kangaroos, along with penguins, whales, platypuses and wallabies. Two new lodges come staffed with seasoned guides who take the guesswork out of finding these creatures. Sea Dragon, a boutique hotel planted atop 250 acres of sea-facing land, reopened in 2023 with stargazing and bird-watching walks as well as new safari-style expeditions. Southern Ocean Lodge, which burned down entirely, reopened in December in a lair-like seacliff aerie, offering sunrise run-ins with wild sea lions and sunset sessions fueled by local wines and forest truffles. New trails on the island include a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the aptly named seaside granite formations of Remarkable Rocks and the first sections of the planned 23-mile-long Dudley Peninsula Trail, beginning at the historic Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.

Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, has long drawn in-the-know visitors from mainland Asia. But lately a supersize dose of new tourism projects has made its night markets, temples and onsen (hot springs) more widely accessible. Last year saw the opening of Hoshino Resorts’ budget-friendly OMO5 in the buzzy city of Kumamoto, as well as the glass-wrapped Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka. This year, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki opens in a former orphanage for atomic bomb survivors, and indie upstart Takasaki Stay allows for more-comfortable visits to the nearby, laid-back Goto Islands. Kyushu’s Tourism Organization also launches four new itineraries focusing on local cuisine, ceramics and nature. Densha otaku (train geeks) will celebrate a new 5-hour sightseeing route launching in spring and serving seasonal bento boxes alongside views of the hissing volcanoes and rocky coastlines between Fukuoka’s Hakata Station and Beppu, Japan’s seaside onsen hub.

Kansas City, Mo.

Given the zeitgeist, it would be understandable to think Kansas City made this list because of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. But the city was set to deliver the goods long before it became a fixture of gossip columns. CPKC Stadium, one of the few soccer stadiums in the world built for a top-division women’s team, the Kansas City Current, will open in March, doubling as a venue for concerts, festivals and farmers markets. In other athletic firsts, KC will host pickleball’s inaugural PickleCon in August, with 100 courts devoted to the unstoppable sporting fad. Rock Island Bridge, a waterfront highline, will soon connect Kansas and Missouri with a string of bars and cafes. The outdoors-oriented will also be able to canoe or kayak in the Kansas River below. Pennway Point, a downtown entertainment district opening this spring, will feature a beer garden, a BBQ joint, live music and a Ferris wheel. Those looking for the city’s famous smoked meat and jazz can rest easy that even under the celebrity spotlight, the soul of the city remains intact.

Prague, Czech Republic

“Prague never lets you go. This dear little mother has sharp claws,” wrote Franz Kafka. And, judging by the tourist numbers, those claws have reach. This year ushers in a new reason, however, to visit the much-loved city. Kafka’s hometown is marking the 100th anniversary of the Czech-born, German-speaking Jewish writer’s death with events across the city. Beginning in March, Prague City Tourism will offer literary walking tours, and a vintage tram will carry bibliophiles to sites where the author lived and worked. In May, the Museum of Czech Literature unveils a new exhibition featuring multimedia installations, letters written by the author and early editions of his books. All summer, the Jewish Museum will host Kafka-focused film screenings in Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish quarter, while a mobile app called “Searching for Odradek,” a reference to a Kafka protagonist, will help re-create the Prague Kafka knew. Finally, the Goethe-Institut, a German cultural center, will be putting on a string of readings and theatrical productions. And when the Kafkaesque existential dread gets to be too much, the city’s legendary pubs await.

Quintana Roo, Mexico

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula may be dismissed by some as a haven for spring breakers, but this year brings proof that there’s much more to the state of Quintana Roo than all-inclusive resorts. SHA Wellness Clinic, known for specialized longevity treatments, opens a branch this month in the town of Costa Mujeres. Architect Fabiano Continanza designed the slopes and spirals of the retreat’s building as a nod to the shape of the DNA molecule. An hour south, the Riviera Maya Edition hotel at Kanai just opened in a 620-acre nature reserve, its neutral-hued décor suggesting a sense of urban cool teleported deep into the jungle. Last month’s ribbon-cutting of a new airport in Tulum adds more fuel to that town’s decadeslong boom, but its quiet side still thrives at new boutique sites like XELA Tulum, a once-private villa renovated into a minimalist hotel. Near the border with Belize sits Bacalar, a diminutive town hugging a 26-mile-long translucent lagoon. Big chains like Banyan Tree have announced plans to move in soon, so get there before they do and check in to the new Boca de Agua hotel, crafted by Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped to design a forthcoming contemporary art wing at New York’s MoMA.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

In Buenos Aires, an often-lauded culinary scene is shining brighter than ever. The neighborhood of Belgrano presents a handy introduction to two core elements of daily life in Argentina: fútbol and meat. After a match at El Monumental, South America’s largest stadium, dine at Corte Comedor’s modern parrilla (or grill) with hard-to-find cuts of beef, succulent veggies and charcuterie from sister spot Corte Charcuteria. In the art-gallery-packed neighborhood of Villa Crespo, head to Chuí, which offers a surprisingly varied plant-based menu, or Julia, a 22-seater specializing in colorful French-leaning fare. In Chacarita, try the newcomer Ácido, which takes inspiration for its menu—plus its delightfully kitschy china—from grandmothers everywhere. At MN Santa Inés, in the low-key barrio of La Paternal, chef Jazmín Marturet plays with recipes developed during trips to Asia and Latin America. And for travelers who follow the stars, the grand finale awaits at the art-on-a-plate adventure on offer at Aramburu, granted two Michelin stars in November. Buen provecho.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minn.

You can still drink straight from many of the 1,200 lakes in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, the million-acre liquid maze just shy of the Canadian border. Often navigated via multiday canoe camping trips, this boreal wilderness grants its 250,000 annual visitors time on solid ground, too, in rustic lodges and on extensive island hiking trails. With mining interests eyeing the region, every tourist visit this year plays a pivotal role in the area’s conservation. Start yours with a drive along the Gunflint Trail, a 57-mile national scenic byway leading to the Boundary Waters. At midpoint, grab a cardamom roll from Loon’s Nest Coffee, opened in the fall of 2023, before joining a guided paddle with one of the many locally run outfitters. Come nightfall, check in to the freshly updated Gunflint Lodge, or upgrade your campsite with a mobile sauna delivered to your patch of woods by spa operators Sisu + Löyly. In the morning, wake up with the loons—and dunk your cup straight into the deep-blue water to hydrate.

Balearic Islands, Spain

Spain’s Balearic Islands are ditching their dance-all-night rep for something more Zen. Think fewer foam parties, more meditation circles. Ibiza, once synonymous with shot-slinging nights, now appeals to mindfulness mavens, a metamorphosis on full display at the Mirador de Dalt Vila, a Relais & Châteaux hotel aimed squarely at relaxers, not ravers. In Mallorca, Richard Branson’s new Son Bunyola hotel ditches the island’s DJ parties in favor of scenic cycling and languorous afternoons in the 92-foot-long pool. Rafael Nadal’s ZEL hotel beckons with a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Basque fare and a pro-approved gym. On the island of Minorca, protected status keeps a short leash on development, so newcomers focus on renewing existing properties rather than bulldozing and building. Take the island’s latest outpost, Son Vell, an 18th-century Venetian-style manor turned into a 34-room hotel featuring yoga classes, al fresco movie screenings and, best of all, not a thumping bass line within earshot.

Contributors: Kiera Carter (Kansas City), David Farley (Prague), Adam H. Graham (Kangaroo Island and Kyushu), Jacqueline Kehoe (Boundary Waters), Jordi-Lippe-McGraw (Balearic Islands), Suchi Rudra (Buenos Aires), Chris Schalkx (Malaysia and Lamu) and Michaela Trimble (Quintana Roo)

I spent a night in one of the empty apartments in Malaysia's $100 billion ghost town, and I can see why very few people want to live there

• Forest City, a luxury estate in Malaysia, has thousands of empty apartments.
• I spent a night in one of these apartments and found they weren't as luxurious as they were branded to be.
• Dozens of vacant units in the estate are listed for rent on Airbnb.

Forest City is a luxury development in southern Malaysia. China's largest developer, Country Garden , spent $100 billion building the estate.

I first visited Forest City in May 2022, and it was a ghost town . I found towering apartment buildings spread across 4 square miles. A white-sand beach overlooked the Johor Strait, where I could see the silhouette of industrial plants in western Singapore. At night, the windows of hundreds of rows of apartments stayed dark. There were barely any cars on the road and only a handful of people at the beach.

Forest City predicts that some 700,000 people will live in the estate in the next six years. For now, it says there are only 9,000 residents .

In 2022, a security guard at a local condominium told me 20 people lived in the complex. This left me curious about what it would be like to spend a night in one of these apartments.

In March, eight years into Forest City's development, I returned to the estate.

I booked a homestay at a condominium unit for 70 Singapore dollars, or about $52, through a property manager. Dozens of similar units are listed on Airbnb for as little as $38 a night. The unit's owner, who's based in China, declined to comment on this story, citing privacy reasons.

Take a look inside one of the thousands of vacant apartments in Forest City.

Country Garden didn't respond to multiple requests for comment from Business Insider.

Forest City's apartment complexes are marketed as high-end.

I arrived in Forest City on a Friday afternoon. A row of businesses — from a furniture store to a hotpot restaurant — lined the road to the condominium where I stayed the night. One business owner, who declined to be named, said they opened their shop in October.

It was significantly busier than when I had first visited two years earlier. There was barely anyone around then, but now, a few dozen people were walking the streets and patronizing the shops.

I had high expectations for the condo, as Forest City had long branded its properties as upscale. In a July press release , Forest City said it offered "luxury high-rise waterfront apartments."

According to the press release, unit prices in Forest City start at 510,000 Malaysian ringgit, or about $108,000. It's expensive for Johor, the Malaysian state where Forest City is.

Muhammad Najib Razali, a professor of real estate at Malaysia Technology University, told me properties in Johor usually sold below 300,000 ringgit — the price considered affordable among the state's middle-income households.

Locals aren't the target market for these upscale condos. Some 98% of units sold in Forest City were purchased by foreign buyers, according to data cited in a 2017 paper by Ong Kian Ming, a Fulbright scholar who was Malaysia's Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry. In June 2017, Country Garden told Bloomberg it had sold 16,000 units.

The lobby didn't make a strong first impression.

The complex looked pristine from the outside, with each 39-story building covered in greenery. But when I entered the lobby, it was far less manicured.

The elevators were plastered with peeling wallpaper with Forest City's logo and a phrase in Chinese and English that read: "Going home is the beginning of a new life."

Most of the apartments on my floor looked empty.

My unit for the night was on the seventh floor. There were about 20 units on the floor. Each of the units had a window that faced the hallway. I peered into them and could see that most of the units were either sparsely furnished or outright unfurnished.

Two of the units were used by the condo's staff — I spotted several men in uniforms leaving and entering the room — with a few pairs of shoes left outside the door.

In 2022, a Forest City representative told me more than 20,000 residential units had been sold. Now, it appeared that many of these units were vacant.

A resident at another apartment complex in Forest City told me they were the only people living on their floor. They added that most other floors in the building also had only one resident.

Najib said one reason so many units were empty was because many people bought them as investment properties.

"Some buyers thought that Forest City, in terms of the rental market, would be much easier to see return," he said.

One local business owner, who declined to be named, told me she also worked as a property agent in Forest City and had 50 units available for rent.

According to units listed on the property site iProperty, a three-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at the condo costs as little as 1,100 ringgit, or $235, a month to rent. In comparison, renting a similar unit at Danga Bay — Country Garden's first venture in Malaysia just 20 miles from Forest City — costs more than 2,300 ringgit a month.

The unit looked as if it hadn't been lived in. It had an aesthetic similar to an Ikea showroom.

The unit wasn't anything special. It had a simple three-person couch, a small wooden coffee table, and no TV.

The apartment measured 635 square feet and had a master bedroom, two smaller rooms, and one common bathroom. There was also a compact kitchen with two stoves near the entrance.

According to the property website EdgeProp, the average house in Johor is nearly double the size of this unit, at about 1,264 square feet.

Koh Sin Yee, an adjunct senior research fellow with Monash University Malaysia, told me locals in Johor often preferred to purchase landed properties rather than high-rise apartments. She said this deterred many locals — even those who could afford it — from buying a house and living in Forest City.

According to data referenced in Ong's 2017 paper, at the time, only 78 out of the 5,344 units sold in Forest City were sold to Malaysians.

The master bedroom was furnished only with a double bed.

Unlike the other two bedrooms, the master bedroom had natural light streaming in from a large window. One of the common rooms faced the hallway, and when the blinds were opened, I could see straight into the hallway. At night, it felt eerie, as I could hear every little noise from the outside, such as the rustling of leaves and insects chirping.

The common rooms were furnished with nothing but a single bed. I could feel the plastic still wrapped around the mattresses when I lay down.

While the rest of the unit looked new, the bathroom was worse for wear.

Dirt and dead moths had piled up in the shower.

Showering was uncomfortable. The drain was clogged up, so I ended up ankle-deep in water.

The best part of the unit was the balcony, which had views of the coastal villas and the Johor Strait.

On its website, Forest City marketed these villas as a "peaceful retreat or a luxurious vacation home." These villas are larger than the apartments, with a living area between 753 square feet and 1,862 square feet. A total of 482 villas are set to be completed by 2026.

The villas looked like modern townhouses. Each villa had a rooftop and garage. Forest City hasn't announced how much these villas will cost.

While the condo was massive, I spotted only a handful of residents using its facilities.

Outside, there was a swimming pool, several outdoor gyms, and a playground.

There was no one at the pool in the morning. The Jacuzzi was full of cloudy-looking water.

I spotted a total of three residents, one of whom was blasting a song in Chinese from her phone and exercising on one of the tai-chi spinners at the outdoor gym.

It looked like an average residential neighborhood in Singapore — with its endless blocks of public housing and the ubiquitous sight of plants and trees — but without the people.

There was one place that didn't feel dead: the row of shops just outside the condo.

I headed for a meal at one of several Chinese restaurants just outside the condo. During my first visit, most of these stores were vacant. But now, it was where I found the most signs of life.

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was transported to China . Chinese pop music blared from the speakers as cigarette smoke wafted into the air.

Nearly everyone inside spoke only Chinese. Despite speaking Malay, the national language, I had to resort to pointing at items on the menu to order.

The area had become an enclave of sorts: The other stores nearby were also Chinese restaurants or convenience stores that sold household goods from China. There, people told me they were from the mainland, too, and only spoke Chinese.

"A certain demographic of Chinese people may prefer this kind of lifestyle in Malaysia," Koh said, adding that Forest City offered a lower cost of living than major cities in China and was designed in a way that was familiar to where Chinese residents may have lived back home.

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