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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

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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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Travel & Food, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

The Kuala Lumpur Itinerary Curated by Locals (KL) 2024 Update – Best Things to Do in Malaysia’s Capital

August 25, 2023 by Bino 3 Comments

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is a city that is all too familiar to me after visiting countless times. As a major transport hub not only within Malaysia but also for destinations around Southeast Asia, the Malaysian capital has long been a popular destination due to its relative ease of access, plethora of eats as well as the iconic Petronas Towers.

There are plenty of attractions in Kuala Lumpur and if you spend two or three days here, you will soon discover that there is so much more to the city than just the twin towers. Over the years, a noticeably prominent coffee culture has also developed, giving way to plenty of concept cafes catering to just about every whim and fancy.

Around the metropolis, you will also discover pockets of culture, whether it be at the Kampung Baru or Brickfields (the city’s Little India). The abolition of GST (goods and services tax) has also made shopping in Kuala Lumpur a convincing proposition and the malls around Bukit Bintang or KLCC are more than happy to oblige.

If you are looking for ideas of things to do, see and eat in Kuala Lumpur (KL); here is a recommended itinerary that you can do in as little as 3 days.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Downtown KL, Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang & Jalan Alor

Tip: You might want to get a Malaysia sim card that includes data and calls that you can easily pick-up once you arrive in KLIA. This enables you to escape potentially snaking queues at the airport’s SIM counter. You can get a sim card here

Start your Kuala Lumpur itinerary by exploring the civic area. The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is an appealing late 19th century structure known for its Moorish architecture, with the Merdeka Square fronting it. It was the main government building used during the British colonial administration. Nowadays, it houses the Ministry of Tourism. 

Jamek Mosque

jamek mosque – kuala lumpur

From here, it is a short walk to the imposing Jamek Mosque , a sprawling complex that shares some similar features with the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. The mosque is open to the public outside of prayer times and is well worth a visit. To appreciate the architecture of the complex as a whole, I would suggest climbing up to the monorail station adjacent to it. To get to a higher point, you’d need to purchase a ticket. MYR 1 is the minimum ticket price but the view from up there is definitely worth much more than that.

Central Market

central market – kuala lumpur

For a bit of shopping, head to the nearby Central Market (daily 10AM to 6PM), an art deco building filled with stores selling all sorts of wares including household items, apparel and souvenirs. The place is admittedly quite touristy but for local handicrafts and souvenirs, the range here is hard to beat.

Selfie Time at Kwai Chai Hong

street art in kwai chai hong, kuala lumpur

From that market, it is a short walk to Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. Petaling Street is where all the action is with its souvenir shops and night market. Towards the southern portion in a side street (Lorong Panggung) you will find Kwai Chai Hong , a charming little spot filled with street murals, brightly painted restored shophouses housing souvenir shops as well as plenty of insta-worthy spots. Kwai Chai Hong reminds me a bit of Penang or even Ipoh with all the street art. 

A 6 minute walk from Kwai Chai Hong is the atmospheric Fung Wong (daily, 9AM to 6PM). This age-old confectionery has spent most of its life as an old-school bakery doling out traditional cookies such as red bean pastry, wife’s cookies and egg tarts. The 4th generation owners moved the confectionery to a new space not far from the original site and turned it into a cafe with a distinct blend of the old and the new. 

A Dose of Modern Culture at REXKL

A short walk from Fung Wong is the intriguing REXKL , a cultural/exhibition space that gives one a glimpse of Kuala Lumpur’s hipster scene. The basement houses a number of chic bars and eateries while the upper floor has a very picturesque bookstore and exhibition space.

Admire the Majestic KL Railway Station

kuala lumpur railway station

Before leaving the older part of town, make sure to stop by the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and stand in amazement at the beautiful mishmash of British colonial and Mughal architecture. If you want to live it up like during the olden days, walk across the station to The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur for some tea.

While most people recommend heading to Batu Caves in the morning, my personal preference and suggestion is to do it in the afternoon. This is especially if you intend to take photos of the giant statue outside as it faces against the sun in the morning. Situated in the state of Selangor, Batu Caves is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India. 272 steps will take you inside the cave and into the Murugan temple. If you have been to Batu Caves before but have not been back in the last 4 years, it is well worth returning for the colorful stairs which appear particularly picturesque when taken with a zoom camera from afar.

Shopping Galore in Bukit Bintang

Spend the rest of the afternoon back in Kuala Lumpur and in its busiest area, Bukit Bintang . Even if you have been to other shopping districts in Southeast Asia such as Bangkok’s Sukhumvit or Singapore’s Orchard Road; Bukit Bintang is still worth a look for its myriad high street brands and elements of Middle Eastern culture. Malls to check out include Lot 10, Sungei Wang and Pavilion. Kuala Lumpur is also a popular destination for people from Arab countries and you’ll find a distinct Islamic flavor in many of the establishments here.

Street Eats in Jalan Alor

jalan alor – kuala lumpur

For an atmospheric dinner experience, eat at one of the food stalls in  Jalan Alor and sample KL’s hawker culture. Things to try here include char kway teow , bak kut teh and fried oysters . The area is heavily frequented by tourists but you can still get yourself some pretty delicious local fare. If you are looking for a good and decent massage place nearby, you can check out Chaang Thai Massage (daily 12PM to 10pm) to soothe those tired muscles. The therapists come from Thailand.

Day 2 – Kampung Baru, Petronas Towers & Mall-hopping

Witness traditional malay life in kampung baru.

Morning is the best time to explore the traditional Malay village, Kampung Baru located not far from town. Cultural attractions here include Masjid Jamek Kampung Baru , Rumah Limas and Master Mat’s House . Essentially, Kampung Baru is an enclave of quaint and charming Malay-style houses right in the middle of the city. While here, you may also want to have some nasi lemak (a Malaysian staple) for breakfast.  A popular spot within Kampung Baru for this dish include Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa (4, Jalan Raja Muda Musa, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Open daily:   8AM to Midnight).

Try the Best Nasi Lemak in Town

pardon the haphazard plating but the nasi lemak from village park is worth the trip to petaling jaya

If you are willing to head out to Petaling Jaya (around 30 minutes drive from downtown), the undisputed most popular place for nasi lemak is Village Park Nasi Lemak (5, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Open daily: 8AM to 5:30PM).

See Some of Malaysia’s Rich Marine Life in Aquaria KLCC

aquaria klcc

In the afternoon, head to KLCC to check out Aquaria KLCC , the educational and family-friendly oceanarium located mere minutes from the Petronas Towers. This 5,600 sqm complex features several zones showcasing the rich marine life in Malaysian waters. The highlight here is the 90 meter underwater tunnel where you can see sharks, manta rays and other underwater creatures as they gather above and beside you (you can get discounted tickets here ).

See the Petronas Towers – A Must For Your Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

petronas towers

From Aquaria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic attraction is a mere 5 minute walk through either a well-manicured park or underground tunnel. The best time to admire the Petronas Towers is during sunset (for KL this usually happens between 7PM to 7:15PM). It’s also possible to go up to the building’s observation deck (you can book here for discounted tickets plus free pick-up within any KL city location). My personal pick for the best view of Petronas Towers is from the Skybar of Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Walk Through the Saloma Bridge

saloma bridge

The Klang River separates Kampung Baru and KLCC and before the Saloma Bridge was built in 2020, one had to take quite a bit of a detour to get between these two spots. The 69-meter long link way which is shaped like a betel leaf is noted for its futuristic design. While seeing this bridge has its own merits either during the day or night, I would specifically recommend coming here at night to see the how it looks when it is lighted up with the colors of the Malaysian flag. Otherwise, you can easily do this part of the itinerary on the morning of day 2 as you cross from Kampung Baru into KLCC. But trust me, coming back here at night is worth it!

Day 3 – Bangsar, Thean Hou Temple, KL Tower

A walk in the park.

d’sun zone in perdana botanic gardens, kl

Kuala Lumpur’s Perdana Botanical Gardens is a sprawling 226 acre oasis of greenery right in the heart of town. Its well-manicured surroundings are a favorite among joggers as well as families enjoying the wide open spaces during off days. Some tourist attractions such as the Bird Park and Butterfly Park are also located here. My favorite spot is the highly instagrammable D’Sun Zone , a relatively unknown gem constructed to house the park’s collection of bottle trees.

Cafe Hopping in Bangsar

cafe in bangsar

The quieter neighborhood of Bangsar is one of the city’s trendiest with its mix of bars, restaurants and hipsters cafes. Start your day with a cup of coffee at some of the most atmospheric cafes in the area. If coffee is not your thing, Bangsar also has a host of interesting restaurants that it is entirely possible to spend the whole day restaurant / cafe hopping as most places offer not just a feast for the tummy but for the eyes as well. To round up your morning, you can also check out other places such as Pulp (daily 7:30AM to 10PM) and Podgy Kurau (daily except Tues, 10AM to 5PM).

matcha desserts at niko neko matcha

For matcha lovers, there is Niko Neko Matcha (daily except Wednesday, 11AM to 5:30PM) which has become something of a local institution where matcha is concerned as they supply green tea to a few other cafes in the city. Even those who are used to matcha cafes in other countries will find the assortment here quite unique. Aside from the usual matcha and matcha lattes, one can also have a sip at matcha mocktails (think matcha infused with various fruit juices) and matcha desserts. The white minimalist interior of this unassuming upstairs joint makes it one of the highlights of a visit to Bangsar.

Elevate Your Merit at the Thean Hou Temple

thean hou temple in kl

Close to Bangsar is the Thean Hou Temple , a place of worship dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. The architecture here is relatively intricate, with ornate carvings in each hall and pavilion. While temples of this sort are common throughout Southeast Asia, I have yet to see one which exceeds this in terms of detail. It is especially photogenic during the period around Chinese new year and the Mid-autumn festival when hundreds of lanterns would be strung across the complex.

Head to Publika for a nice contrast while you cool away and escape the heat of the afternoon sun. This sprawling shopping mall differs from the ones you find in Bukit Bintang in the sense that it specializes in independent brands and food outlets. You’ll find plenty of hipster cafes here as well. Places to check out include Coffeestain by Joseph and Namoo for Korean desserts.

inside the sky box of kl tower

Before ending your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, make sure to check out the KL Tower or Menara Kuala Lumpur (daily 9AM to 10PM). While it is definitely possible to catch views of the city’s skyline from many hotels, a visit to this tower is definitely still recommended and that’s primarily because of its sky box. A visual feast for those seeking instagram-worthy shots, the sky box is essentially a glass cage that extends out of the observation deck of the tower. The glass construction (floor, wall, ceiling) gives the feeling of being suspended in mid-air and is definitely not for acrophobes. I visited on a weekend and found the queue of people going up to the observation deck / sky deck to clear up pretty fast. However, once up there, you’ll get a separate queue number for the sky box and that can take up about a 1 to 1.5 hour wait. You can buy discounted tickets h ere . 

Get Your Fix of Klang Bak Kut Teh

klang bak kut teh

There are two versions of bak kut teh or pork bone soup. The one in Singapore is peppery with a more translucent broth while the Malaysian version is herbal with soy sauce for a darker broth. The Malaysian version is said to have originated in Klang which is around an hour away from downtown Kuala Lumpur. If you are pressed for time and don’t want to travel that far, Subang Jaya is your second best bet. It is located roughly halfway between KL and Klang. In Subang Jaya’s Jalan SS14/2, you can find a long row of shophouses with multiple eateries serving bak kut teh. You can take your pick here but the more popular ones are Restoran Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh (daily, 4PM to 10PM) and Restoran Yu Kee (daily, 8AM to 10PM). Go for the thicker dry version which includes wolfberries, dried squid and chili in the broth. Servings are huge and you can also ask the server for a leaner cut of meat.

If you are heading to Penang, check out this suggested itinerary for Penang .

Day Trips From Kuala Lumpur

If you have more days to spare in and around Kuala Lumpur, you may also want to check out these places:

• Putrajaya – The administrative capital of Malaysia, Putrajaya is a modern (albeit, relatively empty) city filled with palatial structures including some impressive government and religious buildings. The city is around 35 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur and is on the way if you are heading to the airport.
• Ipoh – The sleepy city in Perak is known for its charming shophouses, colonial architecture, nationally renowned cuisine and numerous limestone hills. The place is well worth a day trip or even a night or two. It is accessible by an easy 2.5 hour train ride from KL Sentral.
• Genting Highlands – A popular place for locals and tourists to cool off from the punishing heat of the lowlands, Genting Highlands is home to casinos, theme parks and hotels.
• Melaka – A UNESCO World Heritage Site along the vein of Penang, Melaka is around 1.5 hours away from Kuala Lumpur and features plenty of historical buildings, popular eats, museums and night markets. If you do plan to visit, stay at least one night to fully appreciate the town.
• Seremban – A relatively off-the-radar destination from Kuala Lumpur, Seremban is home to Malaysia’s Minangkabau community. The curved roofs of the city museum and the intriguing architectural style of the royal state capital, Sri Menanti, attest to this.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is accessible from most Asian capitals, often with no need to do a transit. When visiting Kuala Lumpur or Malaysia in general, I typically try booking AirAsia flights as the airline usually has the most number of flights to the city. Alternatively, you can also search here for the cheapest flights .

Getting From KLIA to City

KLIA to KL Sentral in as little as 28 minutes with the KL Ekspres

KLIA Ekspres (Airport Train)

The fast KLIA Ekspres trains take you from the airport to the city (KL Sentral) in as little as 28 minutes. Tickets cost MYR 55 but you can purchase tickets here for a discount. There are departures every 15 to 20 minutes. If you arrive during rush hours like between 8AM to 9AM in the morning or 5PM to 7:30PM in the evening, it’s advisable to take the train to avoid the traffic jams. Alternatively, you can purchase a KL TravelPass which includes a roundtrip journey with the KLIA Ekspres plus unlimited LRT, MRT and monorail rides in Kuala Lumpur for 2 days. You can purchase the KL TravelPass here .

Taxis / Airport Transfers

In contrast, a ride via GRAB costs between MYR 80 to 100 depending on the time of day, excluding toll fees. Alternatively, you can book for private airport transfers here at a standard rate of MYR 75 regardless of the time of day and also inclusive of toll fees.

A relatively cheap way to get from the airport to city is via the airport bus. It costs MYR 12 for a one-way ticket from the airport and you get dropped off at KL Sentral but be prepared for a 1+ hour ride! You can book bus tickets here .

Getting Around

While Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system underwent a massive upgrade recently with the opening of their MRT, I typically get around via a ride-sharing app like Grab. Thanks to petrol subsidies, fares in Kuala Lumpur are among the cheapest in Southeast Asia. Hops within Kuala Lumpur itself, for instance, will set you back by only MYR 5 – 15 typically.

Car rentals have also become more popular these days as some folks prefer to minimize interacting with crowds especially in the current pandemic era. Kuala Lumpur’s roads are highly developed and foreigners can drive here provided they have a valid international driver’s license. You can check out car rental deals here .

Travel Insurance 

In this era of uncertainties, I will normally purchase travel insurance even for short trips. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. 

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most affordable major city to stay in luxury hotels so why not live it up a bit and stay somewhere nicer? Here, it’s very well possible to stay in a 5-star property with a US$100 per night budget. You can get a good 3-star hotel with US$40 and 4-star accommodations for about US$75.

Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur – This is a great value hotel with rooms that are rarely above US$50 a night (and that is already with breakfast). Location-wise, the hotel is situated in Jalan Ampang, close to the KL Tower and a few minutes walk from Dang Wangi Station.

KLoé Hotel – This is the place to stay if you are looking for an instaworthy hotel that is close to the city center. KLoé Hotel is located right in Bukit Bintang. Rooms are stylish and feature a modern industrial look. Don’t miss a picture-perfect opportunity in the concrete hallways with vines – get your friend/family member to take a photo of you from across the open hallway.

at the instagram-worthy else hotel in kl

Else Kuala Lumpur – This spanking new boutique hotel opened in 2022 is stylish and luxurious at a wallet-friendly price. You can expect carefully-designed rooms and suites with soft palettes and natural tropical textures. The hotel also has an inhouse “meditation pod” for your relaxation and enjoyment. 

Alila Bangsar – Situated a few minutes’ walk from Bangsar Station and around 15 minutes to the cafes the Bangsar neighborhood is known for, the Alila Bangsar boasts of stylish and relaxing public spaces high up in the city. I like how there is a semi-partition in the sitting areas here, even in the most basic guestrooms.

Hilton Kuala Lumpur – Personally one of my favorite places to stay in the city, this hotel stands close to KL Sentral which makes airport connections a breeze. Rooms are recently furnished and there are plenty of food options here. The Japanese (Iketeru), Chinese (Chynna) and Western (Graze) options are all exceptional.

You can also compare for the best prices at other KL hotels here

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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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

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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

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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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Kuala Lumpur Top Attractions

Situated at a height of 1800 metres on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali, Genting Highlands is a popular destination that promises a day full of fun, thrill and excitement. This beautiful location offers views of giant mountains, and lush greenery as well as fun activities to keep you entertained throughout your Malaysia trip. You can enjoy a cable car ride and admire the panoramic views of the entire town. You can stroll through the lush orchards and even pick your own strawberries and mushrooms for a memorable experience. Make sure to visit the popular Taoist temple Chin Swee Caves, decorated with paintings of Buddha and thousands of lights. This hill station is also renowned for its exciting theme parks which are one of a kind. Two of the most popular theme parks are the Genting Skyworlds and Skytropolis which offer a wide range of thrilling rides. Additionally, there is a mini Snow City which is entirely covered with snow and offers a temperature of -6 degrees Celsius. Here, you will be provided with warm suits to play with the snow and click fun pictures. Make sure to end your tour by visiting Sky Avenue which is a four-storey lifestyle mall in Genting. You can enjoy shopping from local to luxury brands or relax with a spa session. 

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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• Kuala Lumpur

67 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

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One of the things that make Kuala Lumpur so special is the diverse mix of cultures that call the Garden City of Lights home. With so many things to do in Kuala Lumpur , set aside a few days to discover Malaysia’s capital city.

You’ll notice its melting pot of different ethnic backgrounds, with evidence of this in all facets of the city, from the street food to the varying districts, like Chinatown and Little India. Speaking of, foodies take note — KL is a culinary extravaganza!

Enjoy sunset hour at a stylish rooftop bar, shop the local markets and scout the city’s crazy-cool street art scene. Revel in the views from its most-famed skyscrapers, like the Petronas Twin Towers.

Surrounded by lush trees and natural rainforests, even though Kuala Lumpur is a bustling city, feel at peace among all its greenery. Escape the hustle at one of the many parks, like the Perdana Botanical Garden.

Looking for more things to do in Kuala Lumpur outdoors? Heading just outside KL, venture to the hillsides and take in the countryside landscapes around the Genting Highlands. It leaves much for travelers to explore and discover!

1 – Explore 14 different types of gardens at Perdana Botanical Garden

One for the nature-enthusiasts or anyone looking for a zen moment among the florals, the Perdana Botanical Garden (also known as the Lake Gardens) is an ideal spot to unwind from the city buzz.

Visit an entire area dedicated to the country’s national flower at the Hibiscus Garden… waterfall included! Or, if Orchids are your favorite, head to the Orchid Garden.

Enjoy a romantic picnic around the lake and Cycade Island, and learn about uncommon fruits at the Lesser Fruit Tree Collection.

A perfect place to spend the afternoon wandering through the different green spaces, take a segway tour around the botanical gardens. This way, you can make the most out of your time and have the chance to check out every inch of the gardens.

Other must-see features are the Sunken Gardens, Forest Tree Collection, and the Herbarium.

• Perdana Botanical Garden tour

2 – See the views from Kuala Lumpur Tower

Did you know that the Kuala Lumpur Tower, also known as the KL Tower, is the World Base-jump Centre?

Apart from the adrenaline-seeking adventures and panoramic city views from 276 meters high, there are other things to do.

Built in the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, you can visit the original rainforest via a canopy walk, and the tower also features a small aquarium with exotic fish, as well as a mini zoo.

From ground level, take an elevator ride up to the Skydeck featuring a transparent glass box on the edge for photo-ops … It literally looks like you’re standing over the whole of KL!

You can also take in 360-degree city views from the Observation Deck located a few floors below the Skydeck, followed by a magical dinner at the revolving restaurant aptly named ATMOSPHERE 360.

Travel Tip: Arrive early on in the day to avoid the mega crowds.

• Kuala Lumpur Tower tickets

3 – Shop for local souvenirs at the iconic Central Market

Located right near Petaling Street, this local market has been around since 1888 when it originally began as a wet market in Kuala Lumpur.

However, the Central Market was relocated in the 1980s to its current home where it’s been serving customers ever since.

Not overly large, it’s the perfect sized indoor market to spend a good hour or two meandering the little shops and carts found across the two levels.

The amazing thing about shopping at Central is that you’ll find many hidden gems and handicrafts that you don’t find at the other street markets in town.

Shop for crystals and powerful gemstones, ancient brass ornaments, or bags and purses made from Batik fabrics.

There’s a gallery towards the back of the market on level one, and pick up perfumes, handmade soaps, and flower-pressed jewels en route. Upstairs is lined with many colorful clothing shops, as well as a food court.

4 – Cross the highest two-story bridge in the world at Petronas Twin Towers

In a city full of skyscrapers, head 88 floors above ground level to the tallest twin towers in the world, and take in the sweeping views of Kuala Lumpur below.

Reaching 450 meters, the Petronas Twin Towers are hard to miss but don’t just stare at its impressive architecture from below.

Visit the Observation Deck on the 86th floor for panoramic city scenes from above the clouds, followed by an informative visit to the Digital Display on floor 83.

The famous Skybridge connects the two towers on levels 41 and 42, and if you’re keen for a round of shopping afterward, hit Suria KLCC Shopping Centre (located on the basement level of the Petronas).

P.s. There’s also a telescope for anyone to use at the Observation Deck.

• Petronas Twin Towers tickets

5 – Admire the Federal Territory Mosque’s stunning architecture

Although the Federal Territory Mosque is still in use, many travelers pay the worship grounds a visit simply to revel in its beauty and architecture.

There are curved archways, patterned entrances, and different tiers to explore. Wander around the serene water pond feature surrounding the entire mosque, which creates magical reflections across the floors.

The blue ‘qubba’ (domes) are really striking and are lit up at night. With the capacity to fit up to 17,000 worshippers, it’s all quite regal — not to mention a mega photo opportunity!

6 – Climb 272 steps at the Batu Caves

From the 42-meter-high golden statue of Lord Murugan to the rainbow-colored steps leading up to ancient caves, you’ll feel totally transported the moment you arrive at the Batu Caves site.

(Lord Murugan is known as the chief deity of the Tamil, and he is the God of yoga and religion.)

There are four main limestone enclaves that most tourists visit. However, to reach any of them, you’ll first need to ascend the 272 steps, passing the Vedic god at the start, and local monkeys along the way.

Explore paintings of Hindu gods inside the Ramayana Cave, or trek through the pitch-black Dark Cave located close by.

While there isn’t much visitor information on-site, book a guided city tour and enjoy an educational and enlightening experience to the Batu Caves from Kuala Lumpur.

• Batu Caves tours

Hot tip: The most beautiful places in Asia captivate photographers and artists, inspiring creativity with their extraordinary landscapes and vibrant colors.

7 – Escape big city life and head to the hillsides of the Genting Highlands

Hello Genting Highlands, where the weather is cooler and the scenic views are unending. It’s the perfect place for a day trip outside of KL.

Although the town inside Genting has been built as a resort city filled with casinos (including its very own mini Las Vegas), shopping malls and theme parks, the areas just outside of the city are simply magical.

Stay in a homestay or a glasshouse villa and wake up to a sea of clouds, visit traditional villages nearby, and feast on local culinary delights typical to the region.

Travel up to mountain peaks via the town’s cable car to glimpse some of the best views of Genting from above — don’t forget your camera!

• Genting Highlands day trips

8 – Be amazed by the architecture of Dataran Merdeka

The Sultan Abdul Samad Building building at Independence Square is steeped in history and was originally built when Malaysia was still under British rule.

In fact, it was only in 1957 that the country gained its own freedom.

Every Independence Day, the people of the city all congregate at Dataran Merdeka for festivities and celebrations, and it’s a popular point of interest for travelers as many must-see sites and buildings are located close by.

The architecture is really interesting, celebrating a mix of colonial and traditional design. Visit Kuala Lumpur’s very own ‘Big Ben” tower clock, topped with a brass dome, and check out the light brick hallways and spiral staircases.

As the sun sets, the building is lit up in warm red lights and it takes on the appearance of a castle.

9 – Take some time out to rejuvenate at KLCC Park

Looking for a place to picnic? Chill out on the soft green grassy banks, or take a seat around KLCC Park’s water feature fountain, which lights up at night!

Speaking of lights, the Petronas Twin Towers are right in front of the park, and the entire area sparkles in the evenings.

With an allocated jogging pathway, you might prefer to exercise at this time of the day, once the blazing Malaysian sun has set.

If traveling with little ones, there’s a kid’s playground here, and the As Syakirin Mosque (also known as the KLCC Mosque) is located within the park.

10 – Explore the vibrant Chinatown

It’s busy and bustling and full of life in Chinatown.

Comprising of the area around Petaling Street, as well as Central Market, eat and shop until you drop, and spot some of the coolest street art that KL has to offer around this neighborhood.

Lined with red lanterns, visit Chinese shophouses and shop for souvenirs, herbs and traditional remedies. Go temple-hopping (Chan See Shu Yuen, Guan Di and Sri Maha Mariamman temples are in this area) or grab tea at a boutique cafe.

Try out a walking tour , stopping at various hawker stalls where your guide explains and translates for you. It’s also a convenient area to book your accommodation in and is close to many city attractions.

• Chinatown tours

11 – Feel like royalty at the National Palace (Istana Negara)

When the impressively large grounds were first built in the early 1990s, it wasn’t the royals that resided at the National Palace.

Originally home to a Chinese tycoon who made his fortune selling tin, it was only in 1957 that the royal family took over the site.

The family called the National Palace home up until 2011. Today, guests can explore the palace gardens and hallways, and Istana Negara has now been converted into the Royal Museum.

Many city tours include a stop-off at the National Palace to visit the museum, and checking out the palace’s different rooms.

12 – Visit an incredible pink mosque at Putrajaya

Take a day trip to Putrajaya, a one-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, and explore the former marshland that’s now home to a modernized city.

As the official administrative and judicial capital of Malaysia, Putrajaya runs super efficiently and part of the city’s mission policy is environmental sustainability. Hence, it’s been dubbed the “Green City”.

The natural environment is made up of wetlands, so the area is ultra lush. Take a boat tour on Putrajaya Lake, stopping off at famous attractions on the waters like the Iron Mosque.

World-famous, visit the Putra Mosque where many flock to take photos of (and with) its glowing-pink exteriors. The city is filled with nature parks like Taman Botani Putrajaya and outdoor activities, including flyboarding and even a skate park.

• Putrajaya day trips from Kuala Lumpur

13 – Discover various animals and habitats at Farm In The City

Farm In The City is exactly as its name states and you’ll get the chance to see, interact and feed the animals up close up.

The conservation park was designed to replicate a traditional Malaysian village, known as a ‘kampung’, and is divided into different areas where tribes of different species call home.

Give the Giant Tortoises an afternoon snack or try bird feeding inside the free-flight bird aviary. Is your child obsessed with lizards and snakes? Stop by Reptiles Cavern, or for something more cutesy, the Pet Village is filled with bunnies and guinea pigs.

Other epic attractions include a tropical fruit orchard, a veggie farm of local produce, a jungle walk as well as a traditional Longkang Fishing Village.

14 – Explore more than 12 galleries at Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Take a look into Malaysia’s rich cultural past inside the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia .

Unlike many museums, the building is bright, white and modern which really lets the artifacts and collectibles on display shine.

As you arrive, look up! An upside-down dome greets guests as they enter, and there is also a beautiful blue engraved qubba outside the building.

The permanent displays include the Textile Gallery, Architecture Gallery, India Gallery, China Gallery, and the Jewellery Gallery among others. There are also rotating exhibitions that change every few months.

15 – Meet Spongebob and the gang at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

What better way to beat the heat than spending the day swishing and whirling down water rides at Sunway Lagoon!

Catering for all ages, this exciting park is unlike many, and it’s no ordinary setup. There are six areas to discover, including the Water Park and Amusement Park. Ride the world’s largest vortex ride, the Vuvuzela, or hit the man-made Surf Beach.

Play games at Fun World, ride an old-school carousel and there are meet and greet shows starring your favorite Nickelodeon characters.

Get your adrenalin pumping and try bungy jumping or go-karting at the X Park. For those that dare, Scream Park is loaded with live-action thrills and shrills.

• Sunway Lagoon Theme Park tickets

16 – Learn about the goddess Mazu at the Thean Hou Temple

This six-tiered temple will take your breath away.

With its swooping design, each of the six levels of Thean Hou Temple has a curved bright red rooftop (known as swallowtail roofs) with ornate statues adorning its edges, like the protective Naga snake.

Although the temple is of Chinese design, there are activities and celebrations for those that practice Buddhism, Taoism and Mazu culture.

Explore the main hall on the top floor, and meander through the Zodiac Statue Park and Yixin Garden.

17 – See fairies, we mean, fireflies, up close and personal in Kuala Selangor

Situated right where the river mouth and sea meet, Kuala Selangor is a gorgeous amalgamation of oceanic and riverside vibes.

Trek through nature parks, take a dip in the ocean at one of the beaches and visit the different temples found in this part of Malaysia, like the Monkey God Temple.

Day-trip to this part of Selangor and venture through rice paddies at Sekinchan, and thanks to its geographical location, there’s seafood in abundance in these parts — so be prepared to feast!

The most special part is as night falls. Take a boat trip into the Kuala River’s mangrove and witness hundreds of fireflies lighting up the riverbanks.

• Kuala Selangor day trips

18 – Imagine what it must be like to fly at KL Bird Park

Bird-watchers, marvel at over 200 different kinds of bird species that call KL Bird Park home (also known as Taman Burung Kuala Lumpur).

The park is divided into zones, and zones one to three are massive free-flight aviaries, designed to resemble the birds’ natural habitat as much as possible, with acres of open space for them to roam.

There are daily bird shows and feeding sessions of the different species, from ostrich to eagles.

• KL Bird Park tickets

19 – Explore the modern National Mosque of Malaysia

Known locally as Masjid Negara, the grounds attract non-worship goers because of its striking architecture.

When it was first built in the 1960s, it took inspiration from countries like Turkey, India, and Saudi Arabia in its design. After undergoing an upgrade in 1987, the mosque today has a more modern feel.

If you look closely enough, you will notice that the building’s impressive 73-meter high minaret looks like a closed umbrella, while the 16-pointed blue star shape roof resembles an open umbrella from a bird’s eye view.

20 – Savor the flavors of different cultures on a food tour

The beautiful thing about visiting Kuala Lumpur is you really get a sense of diversity, and the cuisine around these parts represents the same feeling.

From curries to dim sum, there’s an assortment of foods and dishes to try. Some must-try local favorites include nasi lemak and Ikan Bakar (a chargrilled whole fish dish).

There are night markets, food courts and tons of hawker stalls open during the day, plus certain areas are known for their street food.

Instead of taking a bunch of taxis around the different locations, hop on the back of a Vespa scooter and spend the day, or night, eating with a preorganized foodie tour around Kuala Lumpur.

Don’t miss Jalan Alor, KL’s most famous street-food road filled with an assortment of smells and local culinary delights.

• food tours in Kuala Lumpur

21 – Visit the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia: Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

Located in Chinatown, you can’t help but feel naturally drawn inside the temple grounds with its colorful gopuram (tower entrance) overflowing with statues of 228 Hindu deities.

Inside Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, the grounds are not massive and it takes 10 to 15 minutes to walk around the entirety of it.

First constructed in 1873, the temple is reminiscent of South Indian design. As you enter, you can pray, meditate or make an offering at the Prayer Hall, or walk around and discover the different murals and intricately designed statues.

You’ll want to have a camera close by for this one!

22 – Find affordable goods and delicious street food on Petaling Street

In the heart of Chinatown is Petaling Street featuring its glorious street market. Straight off the bat, we recommend dedicating a few hours here to discover, eat and shop.

You can enter Petaling through both ends of the street and start shopping from either side. Don’t miss the dumpling soup at a local street vendor at the beginning of the top entrance – they’ll have you going back time and time again.

Stock up on all sorts at the flea market, like cashmere scarves, trendy sunglasses, (knock-off) make-up brands, perfume, smoking accessories, shoes, clothing, bags, toys, … you name it!

23 – Visit the city via a hop-on hop-off bus tour

An affordable option instead of organizing and paying for a hundred Grab taxis, consider a hop-on-hop-off city tour on a double-decker bus instead!

Choose to do the tour in the daytime or evening (depending on your preference), and each time offers a unique experience and differing city vibes.

Drive comfortably through the streets (grab seats on the second level for the best views) and take in the local scenes and sights. Most tours stop by at least 15 must-see city attractions.

Popular stops include the Petronas Twin Tower, Aquaria KLCC, and Chinatown. As it’s a hop-on-hop-off bus, you can jump on and off at any of the designated stops around Kuala Lumpur.

• bus tours in Kuala Lumpur

24 – Breaking records at the new Warisan Merdeka Tower

While technically the Merdeka Tower is still under completion, once it’s finished construction it’ll top world lists as the second tallest building IN THE WORLD!

With 118 levels and standing 679 meters tall, it will officially take the cake for the highest building in all of Malaysia and the spire (which is the tallest part of the building), is officially complete.

Its name, ‘Merdeka’ means ‘freedom’ in the native Malay language and the tower will be open to the public at the end of 2022.

25 – Witness the (free) light spectacle at Lake Symphony

If you’ve ever traveled to Kuala Lumpur, you can’t help but notice how lit up at night the city is, and it seems like every skyscraper has LED neon light features, or puts on a light-picture display.

After all, its nickname is the ‘Garden City of Lights’. It’s no different at Lake Symphony, except swap buildings for fountains.

Enjoy a water-light show and the display showcases over 150 one-of-a-kind animations in light form, accompanied by musical sounds.

The best part is that it’s free and shows are put on daily. Plus, it’s super easy to find and is conveniently situated in front of the entrance to Suria KLCC shopping center , a six-story mall at the famous Petronas Twin Towers.

26 – Shop ‘til you drop at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

The award-winning mall features over 700 retail stores and restaurants and you’ll find everything you need under the sun at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur .

But unlike the local markets, this is the place to find boutique shops and brand name outlets. Visit Michael Kors, stock up on beauty products at Yves Saint Laurent Beaute, or go gaga for all things tech at Gadget Hub.

Shop the latest fashions at Prada or Fendi, update the kids’ wardrobes at CottonOn Kids, or spoil them with collectible plushie toys from Karafu.

There’s a salon and art museum inside the center too. After all the shopping, choose from plenty of dining options from Tokyo Mik Cheese Factory to Burger King.

27 – Get teleported to France at Bukit Tinggi

Day tripping towards the Genting Highlands region, you do feel worlds away at Bukit Tinggi, otherwise known as Berjaya Hills.

If you’ve never visited a themed village before, Colmar Tropicale is a must-see and the manmade resort town has been built to replicate a village somewhere in the French countryside.

“Travel” through three countries in one day … Don’t leave back to the city without checking out the Japanese Gardens either.

• Bukit Tinggi day trips from Kuala Lumpur

28 – Improve your skills with a local cooking class

Kuala Lumpur celebrates a plethora of cultures, and the same can be said about the food. You will see a variety of cuisines from local curry houses to Chinese restaurants.

Taste the traditional flavors of Malaysia and enjoy a cooking class where you’ll learn to recreate Malaysian dishes and the recipe to take home with you.

Begin the day at a local fresh market where you’ll grab (and get to know) the ingredients, and some cooking classes happen at a home with its own farm.

Here, lavish in the feeling of picking your own produce to cook with, and the satisfaction that follows after creating something scrumptious to eat.

• cooking classes in Kuala Lumpur

29 – Admire the colorful inhabitants of Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

Home to more than 5,000 butterflies, it feels like you’re walking through a magical forest world inside the Butterfly Park.

Fluttering among wispy ferns, scented florals, and ever-green plants, spot the different shapes, colors, patterns and sizes that the different butterflies display.

You might even find that you’re a butterfly whisperer and if you hold out your hands, some might land on you.

Although the Butterfly Park is located within the Lake Gardens, i.e. Perdana Botanical Garden, it’s accessible directly from the roadside so you can make a sole trip here without missioning through the gardens.

Travel tip #2: Skip the waiting lines and prepurchase your Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park tickets in advance.

• Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park tickets

30 – Feel like you’re in Morocco at Masjid Al Bukhari

You’ll know you’re approaching Masjid Al Bukhari when you see the ornate blue rooftop domes sitting in the sky.

Upon arrival, feel like you’ve landed in Morocco, or even Dubai, as the exterior of the building is surrounded by tall tropical Palm trees and a gorgeous blue, star-polygon-shaped pool lies in the garden.

It’s a fantastic place to wander the peaceful grounds, as well as take some snaps of the intriguing architecture.

31 – Spend the day walking through nature at Templer Park

Malaysia’s natural vegetation is made up of rainforests, and if you head just outside of the city, you can experience it too.

Templer Park is a nature park, a 30-minute drive from the city, and it’s renowned for its various hiking trails. Cross pathways lined with indigenous fauna and flora and fresh river streams.

There are treks suitable for all levels, but if you’re looking for a challenge, try your hand at the Bukit Unyang trail. It’s recommended for experienced hikers and trail runners.

• Templer Park tours

32 – Take a step back in time at the National Museum of Malaysia

Known by locals as the Muzium Negara , discover and investigate Malaysia’s history and parts of time long-forgotten.

Comprising of three levels, there are four fascinating permanent exhibitions for guests to check out.

The Prehistoric Gallery dates as far back as the beginning of the Malay Archipelago, whilst the Malaysia Today Gallery hones in on more recent years, including its ‘road to independence’.

The other two galleries cover the Malay Kingdoms and Colonial Era periods, but throughout all four exhibits, uncover maps, ancient texts, scrolls, sculptures, and traditional clothing among many other artifacts from the past.

33 – Take the young ones to KidZania Kuala Lumpur

Hey kids! Ever dreamt of being a doctor one day, or how about a professional chocolatier?

Moms and dads, your tots, toddlers and younger children will have an absolute blast as they get the chance to play dress up for the day at KidZania .

With over 70 different types of role-playing activities to choose from, kids can experience “real-life adult” activities, chores, and day-to-day life lessons. It’s fun, interactive, educational, and an eye-opener for their future, all set in up in an epic environment …

What’s not to love?

34 – Explore the longest underwater tunnel in Malaysia at Aquaria KLCC

Make your way beneath KL’s Convention Centre and discover an underwater paradise at Aquaria KLCC.

The perfect activity for families or couples, spend a few hours admiring the amazing marine animals that are native to the waters around Malaysia.

The aquarium is divided into exhibits that each focus on a different species, or aquatic environment.

As you wander through the underwater tunnel, spot Sand Tiger Sharks or Green Turtles swimming by — it’s a real Instagram moment!

Exhibits include the Evolution Zone, Shipwreck, Deep Forest, The Coast, Living Ocean, Station Aquarium and the Weird & Wonderful. Here, spot the Giant Pacific Octopus or Pinecone fish whose gills look like the outside of a conifer!

• Aquaria KLCC tickets

35 – Visit 99 Wonderland Park’s lucky Golden Waterfall

It’s been named as one of the most “unique recreational landmarks” in the city and for good reason.

99 Wonderland Park is unconventional featuring differing areas and things to do and see. It’s really a mix of attractions, rides, and photo opportunities.

Cross the Magical Bridge (lit up at night), or the Boardwalk above the lake where you can spot wildlife animals nearby.

As an open-zoo concept, look out for peacocks or ducks waltzing past, or head to 99 Buaya Tembaga where the crocs live!

What’s your star sign? One of the coolest features has got to be the 12 Zodiac Walkway, a path lined with the different animal statues of the zodiac.

36 – Take a day trip to “Orang Utan Island”

When you visit Pulau Orang Utan, you can rest assured knowing you’re visiting a fantastic organization.

The rehabilitation initiative is built alongside a lake and the orangutans live freely, with plenty of space to roam and swing from tree to tree.

In fact, the humans are the ones that feel “caged in” as the tour through the conservation park has a confined walkway for visitors among the animals’ sanctuary.

You will also have the opportunity to feed the orangutans fruit through here if they come close enough.

FYI, to reach Orang Utan Island, you need to take a 15-minute boat ride across the lake.

• Orang Utan Island day trip

37 – Make a trip to Taman Negara, a nature enthusiast’s delight

The fantastic thing about calling KL your home base for your vacation is that there are loads of beautiful national parks and areas to visit not far from the city.

Each offers a completely different experience.

Take a day trip to Taman Negara and wander among its rainforest, believed to be 130 million years old!

But that’s not all …You can also walk the world’s longest rainforest canopy walkway and stay overnight among the trees.

Popular activities include fishing, boat cruises, bird watching, rock climbing, rapid shooting and jungle trekking.

Plus, explore the caves located within the national park, and visit Kg. Orang Asli, (an Aborigine settlement).

• Taman Negara National Park day trips

38 – Visit the centenary Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque

Not only is the building an architectural beauty, but the Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque is built where the Klang and Gombak Rivers meet.

These rivers play an important part in Malaysian history and it’s said to be the birthplace of Malaysia.

It was the first mosque in Malaysia constructed using light bricks, and its design showcases other traditional Moorish features. It’s also well-known in the city as ‘Masjid Jamek’.

39 – Unwind surrounded by nature at KL Forest Eco Park

Whist you need to head a bit out of the city to reach most rainforests, KL Forest Eco Park is the only natural rainforest left inside Kuala Lumpur itself.

Walk across the bridged canopy through forestry of trees and take a refreshing break after a long day of shopping and city sightseeing.

Along the walkway are designated birdwatching/view towers and it’s an amazing spot for photos too. If you’re up for some trekking, hit one of the nature trails like the Jelutong trail.

40 – Check a different type of museum at the National Textiles Museum

Located inside the Sultan Abdul Samad Building at the Independence Day Square is the National Textile Museum where you can wander the hallways of four exhibition rooms.

Explore the different textiles used throughout Malaysia’s past to create fabrics, tools and works of art.

The Pohon Budi Gallery has textiles on display from prehistoric eras, like traditional silk and cotton clothes and garments. Or, learn about the colorful origins of Batik fabrics and design inside the Pelangi Gallery.

41 – Discover why the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is a famous landmark

Still in operation for trains doing the daily commute, the exterior of the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is the real showstopper here.

Constructed back in 1901 when Malaysia was governed under British reign, the building mixes colonial, Mughal and Moorish design elements.

Snap some original photos outside the building and explore its interesting architecture.

Inside the station, visit the KTM Mini Museum where some of the very first train tickets and carriage items are on full display.

42 – Take a look at one of the city’s great urban parks, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa

If your accommodation doesn’t come equipped with a fitness center or gym facilities, a great option to get in your round of exercise is at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa.

Rent a bike and cycle the pathways around the lake, play a round at the on-site tennis courts or jog along dedicated runner’s tracks whilst taking in the views of the Twin Towers.

Kids can have fun at the children’s playground, and enjoy a family picnic under one of the large trees.

Another unique feature at the park is the Remote Control car track, which the little ones will love, as well as anyone who wants to let their inner child come out to play. Plus, in some parts of the world, it’s a serious sport.

43 – Follow the brightly decorated street lamps and alluring smells of Little India

You’ll realize soon enough that you’re in KL’s Little India district, a short 10-minute drive from popular areas such as Chinatown.

Other than falling in love with the colorful local scenes, friendly faces and all of the delicious sweetmeats, shop for all sorts of goods and products imported from India, as well as Sri Lanka, or produced by the local Indian communities.

Find traditional clothing like bright saris and harem pants, stock up on beauty products and traditional Ayuverdic medicine, herbs and spices, as well as souvenirs and artworks of deities, gods and goddesses.

44 – Discover cultural exhibitions and art for sale at Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

How’s this for a complete bird’s eye view over Kuala Lumpur city?

Inside Kuala Lumpur City Gallery , discover a 3D scaled-down model of the entire city of Kuala Lumpur, supported by an informative presentation.

Wandering through the gallery, discover old-school maps and photographs of KL dating back in time, and shop for souvenirs at the gift shop.

If you’re intrigued, you can also visit the workshop area where the staff creates the 3D models.

45 – Admire the stunning Blue Mosque

Travel 20 minutes outside of Kuala Lumpur to the Selangor district where you can spot one of Southeast Asia’s largest mosques from a mile away.

Its official name is Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah , or locally, Masjid Biru.

Apart from the blue and silver checkered dome, it’s the building’s four minarets that make it unmissable.

Reaching a whopping 142 meters, you can see the tips of Masjid Biru in the sky from any part of Selangor.

Don’t leave without snapping a pic in front of the beautiful stain-glassed windows.

46 – Get your fortune read at Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

If you believe in such things, this Chinese temple is well known for its fortune-telling reader (located outside the temple) and many local students visit Sin Sze Si Ya when good luck is needed pertaining to academics.

Carved from heavy woods, overflowing with red lanterns and bundles of incense filling the air, among other superstitions it’s believed that circling the temple’s main altar inside can bring you good fortunes.

Founded in 1864, it’s down the street from the Central Market in Chinatown and can be reached easily on foot from this area and Petaling Street.

47 – Have the greatest time at Berjaya Times Square

The biggest indoor theme park, Berjaya Times Square Theme Park is designed to suit all ages and it’s divided into two areas, Galaxy Station is for adults and older teens and kiddies can have a blast at the Fantasy Garden.

Squeal as you loop the indoor inverted rollercoaster, or try the Spinning Orbit.

Hop onboard the fantasy train and take a ride through Fantasy Garden or design your own avatar and interact with it afterward.

The Cosmo Theatre is also home to the hall of dreams…

48 – Do your sightseeing by taking a bike tour

Not only is this a fun and different way to explore the streets, but you’ll be sure to clock in your weekly exercise.

Spend half a day traveling to Kuala Lumpur’s most famed attractions and sites like Independence Square, Central Market, the Botanical Garden, the KL Tower and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

When booking a bike tour in Kuala Lumpur, you can decide at what time you’d prefer, including evening guides.

Make sure to pre-check different tours and the various landmarks that you visit as tours vary.

If there’s a particular site you want to see, compare tours and the destinations covered during each bike trip.

• bike tours in Kuala Lumpur

49 – Take your loved one for a romantic hot air balloon ride

Are you planning on popping the question soon? What dreamier way to spend the afternoon (or morning) than taking a hot air balloon ride across the Malaysian skyline?!

You’ll see the various landscapes and districts surrounding Kuala Lumpur from a whole new view, crossing endless green scenes below.

After a scenic flight in the air, land and enjoy a glass of bubbles, followed by breakfast at a nearby hotel.

Not just limited to couples, the balloons are large enough to fit small groups. The flight is around 45 minutes, but the whole experience is three hours.

• hot air balloon rides in Kuala Lumpur

50 – Learn something new at Petrosains

Have you got an affinity for science?

Cleverly creating an educational experience that will interest the young and old, learn all about carbon and how it impacts our environment at Petrosains in a fun and interactive way.

The center setup is super cool and futuristic, entering halls lit up with geometric patterned LED lights and you can say hello to the life-sized dinosaur replica that moves!

Watch a Science Show, and learn something new. There are demonstrations you can just watch, or shows at designated stations that recommend interaction.

Some topics covered include space, future energy and combustion.

51 – See the adorable pandas at Zoo Negara Malaysia

Open since 1963, home to over 476 different types of animal species from reptiles to mammals, it seems like there’s an entire kingdom at Zoo Negara .

Set up as an open-zoo just outside of the city, the animals have ample space to live and roam freely and as you walk around the different areas, spot giraffes and tigers in natural grasslands.

The grounds are massive, covering 110 acres, and the animals are grouped and live in different areas across the park.

Visit the Mammal Kingdom, crossing over to the Savannah Walk. Enter the Bird Aviary and don’t miss the Bee Museum either.

52 – Try white river rafting at Kampar River

Gushing rapids and swishing streams, maneuver your way down the Kampar River with an adrenaline-inducing river rafting expedition.

Heading 2.5-hours out of Kuala Lumpur where the air is fresher and nature is in abundance, arrive in Perak (Ipoh’s capital city) and make your way to the riverside where you’ll begin rapid racing.

Before the adventure begins, you are given a demonstration and information about the river, and then it’s time to hit the waters.

Cruising down the 7-kilometer stretch, you’ll cross nine rapids in total.

• rafting in Kuala Lumpur

53 – Perfect your backswing at the Golf Courses

You’d be surprised to learn just how many golf courses there are in Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings.

Play at not one but two courses at the stunning Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club , or test the 170-acre grounds at award-winning Kota Permai Golf & Country Club .

If traveling with the family, bring the kids to Kelab Darul Ehsan designed with many water features, and you can hit golf balls off a practice range straight into the lake.

Take a swing at the 18-hole course at Bukit Jalil Golf & Country Resort , designed by Max Wexler.

Not only golfing ranges, if you want to make an entire holiday out of it KL also has many golfing resorts that sport their own private range.

Some popular golfing resorts include Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort and Bangi Golf Resort .

54 – Try rock climbing at Bukit Takun

As you’ve surely noticed by now, the areas outside of the city center are lined with mountains and hillsides, and so it makes sense that you would be able to do some sort of rock climbing activity.

Inside Templer Park stands a gigantic 300-meter high monolith named Bukit Takun.

The single rock formation stands proudly to one side, and you can admire parts of the rock from the road leading towards it.

It’s a really popular destination for climbing enthusiasts and has been ever since the 80s when the first routes were bolted. Today, there are around 32 different rock routes to tackle.

You can either choose to rock climb Bukit Takun, or head to the top of the monolith and descend the rock mountain from here, abseiling down.

• climb and abseiling in Kuala Lumpur

55 – Take a look at one of the biggest bronze statues, the National Monument

If you ever played cops and robbers with the plastic figurines as a child, the scene at the National Monument gives you all the nostalgic feels.

However, it does in fact pay an ode to the ‘fallen soldiers’, who lost their lives during the battle for Malaysia’s independence during WWII.

(During this period, the country was under Japanese occupancy. As you can see, they’ve fought very hard throughout their history to gain their eventual independence, and so it’s still very deeply celebrated.)

Also known locally as ‘Tugu Negara’, the bronzed statues comprise seven soldiers who hold the Malaysian flag.

The number seven was chosen to represent seven different qualities of the country during this time: strength, unity, command, wariness, suffering, sacrifice and courage.

56 – Get your next profile picture on a Kuala Lumpur Instagram tour

This city is just naturally colorful, so get ready to watch your social media blow up during your KL trip.

There’s so much to do, see, and eat that you can’t help but want to take pictures of everything !

With tons of insanely cool parts of the city to explore and attractions that are Insta-worthy, why not take an Instagram tour around Kuala Lumpur and learn all the hidden secret spots that will make your photos pop.

There are a variety of Insta tours, and the private tours include more unique locations. If you’re obsessed with street art, book a tour that shows you some of the best artworks the city has to offer.

• Instagram tours in Kuala Lumpur

57 – Venture into the jungle than a quad tour

It’s not as if you’re able to take a taxi through the rivers, rainforests and mountains around Kuala Lumpur.

If hiking isn’t really your thing, or you’ve done a jungle trek already, why not jump on an ATV bike, and with the wind in your hair, explore the natural landscapes by 4×4.

A popular destination is the Kemensah village near Selangor where you’ll ride through the jungle and stop to swim in a seven-tier waterfall.

Or head through to Janda Baik village in Bentong instead, zooming through tropical, dense forestry and breaking for a dip in the river.

• quad tours in Kuala Lumpur

58 – Enter ‘alternative realities’ inside the KL Upside Down House

For those that have read Enid Blyton’s famous novel, the Faraway Tree, now is your opportunity to experience your very own topsy-turvy land, where everything is upside down, or so it seems…

The museum attraction is divided into different rooms, built to create the illusion that you’re standing on the roof, or the wrong way round.

Not only will your kids have a blast, but even for adults, it’s a cool experience and the photos you’ll take are awesome!

59 – If you’re up for a challenge, try an escape room

Collectively put your brain powers to the test as you’re locked inside a room and have to try and figure out how to escape!

The interactive gaming experience requires players to use logic, patience and some skill in order for victory to be yours.

You’ll be given several clues, and each time you crack the one, it brings you closer to the great escape.

There are different puzzles to choose from with unique themes, and the task takes around 45-minutes to one hour to solve.

A popular activity over recent years, there are a few Escape Rooms in Kuala Lumpur.

• escape rooms in Kuala Lumpur

60 – Put on your fancy clothes for the Golden Triangle

Covering the area of Jalan Imbi, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Raja Chulan streets, these three main roads are considered the Golden Triangle, or the “CBD” of Kuala Lumpur.

It’s lined with a multitude of malls, and boutique shops, and there are many restaurants and cafe options.

Most of the famous skyscrapers are located within the Golden Triangle, including the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC shopping mall.

This part of the city also comes alive when night falls, and the district is synonymous with an incredible nightlife scene.

For festivities, visit the lively Bukit Bintang street and grab drinks at one of the rooftop bars, or put on your dancing shoes and hit the nightclubs.

61 – Fly above water with Flyboard

While there may be no ocean in KL, who said you can’t still enjoy epic water activities and sports? Take flyboarding for example.

If you’ve tried surfing or wakeboarding before, it’s a completely different experience, and you don’t have to have the best balance for this — but it is certainly an advantage.

Thanks to a bit of modern technology, you’re powered into the air by pressured water where you fly above the water.

Strap into your board and boots, then hop on a guided jet ski and head out.

Now, it’s time to FLY! For those that feel comfortable enough, you can even do tricks on both the water and in the air.

• flyboard in Kuala Lumpur

62 – Try a one of a kind experience at Windlab Indoor Skydiving

In all honesty, strapping yourself up and jumping out of a plane can sound pretty daunting to some.

If you’ve always wanted to try skydiving but not to such extremes, test the waters first at Windlab Indoor Skydiving.

Located inside 1 Utama shopping mall, gear up, jump inside a cylindrical glass chamber and feel the forces of gravity.

Using modern technologies known as ‘vertical wind tunnels’, once you’re inside the chamber, air forces reach up to speeds of 250km/h.

You’re whizzed towards the sky and playing with gravity, performing stunts like tumble turns whilst in mid-air.

• indoor skydiving in Kuala Lumpur

63 – See a corridor full of money at Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery

For those that don’t consider themselves art fans, you can’t help but get swept away by the pretty architecture and exhibition decor that you’ll find inside the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery.

Aiming to make the world of financials seem less daunting to those that aren’t economists, Bank Negara has set up the museum to educate its guests in an approachable manner.

There are six permanent galleries to check out. These are the Children’s Gallery, the Bank Negara Malaysia Gallery, Economics Gallery, Islamic Finance Gallery, Numismatics Gallery and the Art Gallery.

Plus, the museum’s spiral staircase is a picture-perfect moment.

64 – Have a little preview of Thailand at Chetawan Buddhist Temple

If you’ve traveled to Thailand before, you’ll immediately notice the similarities between the Chetawan Buddhist Temple in Kuala Lumpur and the types of temples you usually find in the Land of Smiles.

In fact, when the temple first opened in 1957, the king of Thailand at the time traveled to Kuala Lumpur and officiated its opening with his blessing.

Marvel at its intricate architecture that resembles typical Thai Buddhist design, from the gleaming stupas to gold standing Buddhas inside.

Spend some time in quiet meditation and there are Thai Buddhist monks who reside here and run the temple.

65 – Go chasing waterfalls at Kanching Recreational Forest

Heading north of KL, enter the nature park at Kanching Recreational Forest and make your way into its luscious rainforest.

Especially popular on weekends, the seven-tiered Kanching Rainforest Waterfall is located within the park and it’s really easy to access from the entrance.

The first three levels of the fall are the most popular, as well as being the most accessible. Not much effort is required to reach these tiers, however, the further up the waterfall you go, the more climbing and trekking will be required.

Situated in Rawang district, it’s a lovely picnic destination spot.

66 – Make your way to the Secret Garden inside 1 Utama

Credit to 1 Utama Shopping CentreDid you know that 1 Utama is the seventh biggest shopping center in the world??

Located 45-minutes away from Kuala Lumpur (in Selangor), you can totally turn an expedition here into a day trip — you’re going to need at least a few hours just for the shopping.

They cater to all budgets and you can shop for designer brands or at local fashion outlets.

Find home appliances, beauty products, gifts and shoes, and the mall covers every department.

Feeling peckish? Hit the food court, or if here with kiddies, let them rid some energy at Playtime Kids, or at Sports N’ Play.

In need of a moment to rejuvenate after all that shopping? Visit 1 Utama’s Secret Garden where over 500 types of fauna and flora are on display.

67 – Finish your day at the best rooftop bars

With so many skyscrapers in the city, it makes total sense that the rooftop bar options are endless.

As the red sun starts to dip, lift your feet off ground level and raise your spirits, making your way to an epic urban rooftop.

If you are looking for a 360° views of Kuala Lumpur, the Heli Lounge Bar is the place! This rooftop is a fully functional helipad by day and an incredible bar by night.

For endless views, take your cocktail hour at Vertigo on level 59 at the Banyan Tree, or Fuego Troika Sky Dining is great for couples.

Fashionistas, scout out who’s who at  Vouge Lounge , or head to Blue at EQ , an elegant rooftop speak-easy bar.

Indulge in champagne and caviar at Marini’s on 57 or try one of SkyBar ’s signature cocktails around the pool.

LOOP KL is really funky and draws in a younger, hipster crowd with its indoor pool filled with inflatables and Man Tao Bar has striking views of the KL Tower.

Where to stay?

Looking for a place to spend the night (or three) in Kuala Lumpur? Large and boutique hotels are very popular, as well as apart-hotels.

If you’re traveling on a budget, some affordable options include ibis Kuala Lumpur , Expressionz Suites By iHost Global and The Robertson and all have swimming pools.

Both the stylish Ascott Star KLCC and Alila Bangsar hotels show off contemporary design, with stunning city views and rooftop pools.

But if you’re hunting down the epitome of luxury, splurge at either the St Regis Hotel or Four Seasons Hotel . And yes, they certainly live up to their names’ expectations.

• best hotels in Kuala Lumpur

How to get to your hotel?

Travel hassle-free. Pre-organize an airport transfer for as soon as you touch down in KL, where a private vehicle transports you to your hotel. Book a shuttle back to the airport once your trip is over.

Final thoughts:

For those that haven’t traveled to Southeast Asia before, or you’re simply on the hunt for a new country to explore around these parts of the world, Malaysia is an ideal destination.

Thanks to its amalgamation of culture, history and makeup, you’ll feel right at home.

With so much to do and see (from culturally-enriching experiences to historic sightseeing), you’ll probably need more than one day and night to explore the depths of the city.

Where go next? Consider consider traveling to some of Malaysia’ equally impressive nearby destinations, including Langkawi , Penang , Perhentian Islands, Cameron Highlands, Kota Kinabalu, and Malacca City. Make sure to not miss Singapore nearby.

We hope you’ve loved our diverse list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. If you have anything you’d like to add to the list, feel free to leave a comment below.

Happy travels!

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur – 36 interesting and unique ideas

KL is a vibrant and multicultural city with something for everyone.

Before jumping into the list of unique ideas (many of which only locals know), make sure you properly plan your trip by bookmarking some other articles that I’ve written to help travelers get the most out of their visit to KL:

• Is KL safe for tourists?
• How expensive is KL?
• What should you bring to KL?

If you’re already on top of those things, let’s dive into this list of awesome ideas to make your visit to Kuala Lumpur a trip to remember.

Table of Contents

Places to go if you’re… a food lover 

Traders hotel sky bar.

If you’re looking for drinks, atmosphere and a great view, this is the place to go.

Located in the very heart of KL, the Traders Hotel Sky Bar is an upmarket bar with an infinity pool to boot.

From here, you’ll be able to see the lovely KL city skyline, and enjoy some great food from their menu, which not only includes classic local dishes like curry puffs and satay, but also bar snacks like pizza, burgers, and chicken wings. 

Dinner in the Sky KL 

Another experience and gastronomic delight combined into one, Dinner in the Sky lifts you 50 metres off the ground for a truly unique dining experience amongst the stars. 

The cooking is all done directly in front of you and it’s a small party of only 22 people – but book early because seats can run out quickly.

Dining in the Dark KL 

Much like Dinner in the Sky , Dining in the Dark is another novelty experience that you can’t miss out on when you visit Kuala Lumpur.

Through shutting off the visual sense in order to heighten your four other senses, Dining in the Dark also boasts a 4-course surprise menu that guarantees a special experience each time. 

A night market

It isn’t a complete Malaysian experience if you don’t go to a night market.

Here, you can find cheap copy clothing, delicious food, fruits, fake goods (with very interesting spellings), and if you’re lucky you might even get to try some durian.

Or perhaps that should read unlucky – durian is a very polarising fruit!

Night markets pop up everywhere, but here are a few that are particularly worth visiting:

• Taman Connaught Night Market – takes place every Wednesday evening, with almost 700 stalls over the course of 2 kilometres.
• Chow Kit Night Market – this is a good place to grab fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as getting some local street food and fresh meat.
• Fiesta Nite at Mont Kiara – this is a bit of a departure from your traditional night market, as its a bit more upscale and expensive, but the quality of goods is definitely better compared to your typical night market.
• Jalan Masjid India Market – looking for Indian clothing and food? Try here.

Jazz night at No Black Tie 

This is KL’s number one jazz club, with events happening almost every other day. With food and music combined, this is sure to be a night to remember.

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music from local Malaysian talent while gazing into the eyes of your loved one.

Music night at Publika The Bee 

Publika’s The Bee is more well known for showcasing up and coming talent, something that you might be interested in if you want to hear more pop or rock pieces. 

The menu is also great, serving mostly Western fare rather than local food.

Places to go if you… have kids 

Petrosains discovery center.

This is great fun for kids, because you can experience science through a multitude of hands on experiences and interactive shows! It’s mostly a Malaysian science and technology exhibition centering around the petroleum company (Petronas). 

Petrosains Discovery Center is located in KLCC, on the 4th floor. Tickets are RM17.50 for non-Malaysian children, and RM29.70 for non-Malaysian adults. 

If you’re looking for a fun filled day where you can leave your kids without fear, bring them to Kidzania!

It’s a fun, immersive world for children that lets them explore occupations with hands on activities led by trained adults. You might even have fun as well.

Entrance fees differ depending on the age of your child, so check out their website before you head over there.

National Planetarium

Built on top of a hill, this architectural work of art also houses a space theatre that shows 3-D films and space shows. 

There are plenty of artifacts to interest budding astronauts, and most, if not all are related to space science. There is also a telescope in the observatory. 

Places to go if you… really want to get into the culture & religious background of KL 

Chinatown is located in Petaling Jaya, and is known for its vibrant street culture and iconic stalls scattered around the area. If you go, make sure to try the various types of street food on offer.

Little India

Much like Chinatown, Little India is full of Indian goods and food, and you’ll definitely know where you are when you hear the music playing.

You’ll be able to get lots of interesting souvenirs here, as well as try some unique Indian sweets and food such as barfi, laddu and imarti. 

Dataran Merdeka 

If you’re lucky enough to come around our Independence Day, you’ll be able to see lots of flags and performance practices in full swing. 

When it’s not being used as a parade ground, it’s just a lovely piece of cricket green (although not much cricket is actually played there).

Muzium Negara

For those who love to learn about other cultures, this is the place for you . The museum houses a range of artefacts of Malaysia, and provides an overview of Malaysian history. 

It also houses tableaux of traditional events such as weddings, festivals and costumes. 

National Monument 

Erected in 1966, the National Monument commemorates those who died in WW2 in the struggle for freedom, particularly during the Japanese Occupation.

It’s a great historic piece, so make sure to snap some pictures with it.

National Mosque

No matter if you’re just a tourist or a worshipper, this Mosque is beautiful by anyone’s standards. 

However, non-Muslim tourists are only allowed to visit at certain times of the day, and make sure you dress appropriately. 

Thean Hou Temple

Another religious site, this colourful temple is a must-see for any visitor. It’s noticeably bigger than most temples, and is a lot grander, with lots of intricate carvings and symbolism.

Atmosphere 360, KL Tower

A restaurant and a place to sightsee all in one, Atmosphere 360 is on top of KL Tower, a revolving restaurant.

This place can be a little pricey, but the sights are definitely worth it. 

KLCC Petronas Twin Towers

The Twin Towers are one of the most recognizable things about KL.

Located in the city center next to a ton of great shopping centres, this is a great place to spend the day, take some great photos and get some souvenirs.

You can also take your little ones up to the top of one of the towers for some views they will never forget – but be sure to book in advance because you will often be turned away if you try to go up on spot. Spaces are limited.

Places to go if you’re… a nature person 

Kl bird park.

Come to the KL Bird Park to see magnificent tropical birds in their natural habitats. Set amongst lush greenery that evokes the sensation of being in a real jungle, don’t forget to take the classic photo with real live birds sitting calmly on your hands and all around you.

KLCC Aquaria 

KLCC Aquaria is located in the city center, in KL Convention Center. With amazing displays such as giant sea turtles, shark walks, and iridescent jellyfish, there’s something here to please both adults and children, regardless of age. 

KL Butterfly Park

Want to see butterflies up close and personal? If you’re intrigued by the beauty of these insects, look no further than the KL Butterfly Park, which is the largest in the world and houses almost 5000 butterfly species.

As a bonus, the setting for these butterflies is a beautiful orchid garden, which will keep you divided on which is more beautiful- the garden or the butterflies.

Cameron Highlands

Known for their fresh produce and clean air, Cameron Highlands is probably one of the coolest (temperature-wise) places in Malaysia.

It’s not exactly in KL, it’s a couple of hours drive away – if you’re visiting in the rainy season, be careful, because it can be quite slippery.

It’s also quite famous for its fresh produce and vegetables, with luscious strawberries comparable to those from overseas.

This one is quite a hike to get to, so make sure you go an hour or so before the sun rises, and wear proper shoes.

If you manage to make it to the top before the sun rises, you’ll be rewarded with a lovely view of nature and the city.

Once you climb down, you’ll be able to reward yourself with a freshly chilled coconut or even some breakfast as the stalls at the bottom of the hill open.

Zoo Negara 

Any animal lover should definitely visit the zoo, and if you get there quick, you might be able to catch a glimpse of our pandas, gifted to us by China. 

There are definitely a myriad of animals to interest you, including some tropical birds and creatures native only to Malaysia. 

Perdana Lake Gardens

This is Malaysia’s largest recreational park, located right in the city and filled with beautiful greenery. If you’re tired of looking at buildings and getting lost in the concrete jungle, try here instead.

Places to go if you’re… looking for a wardrobe change

Shopping in bukit bintang.

Bukit Bintang is home to many amazing shops, such as high end fashion, to more affordable stores squirrelled away in corners.

Asian fashion rules here, so if you want to spice up your look, you don’t need to go any further- Pavilion and KLCC are the best places to hunt for designer brands.

Places to go if you’re… a thrill-seeker 

Sunway lagoon.

Sunway Lagoon is Malaysia’s biggest water park and theme park, so be ready to spend an entire day here.

There are roller-coasters and massive slides to please everyone, and in the adjacent Sunway Pyramid, there’s even an ice-rink for you to cool down if it gets too hot. 

Genting Resort World

Genting Resort World is for those who want to stake a little more than their lives on the line- their money.

Only those who are 21 years of age and above can enter, and those who are not of the Muslim faith.

Besides that, there are some great hotels to stay in, an amusement park, and plenty of shopping to keep you entertained. 

The views are also unmissable- wonderful greenery and mountains. 

Escape Room

If you have a group of friends or even a family of four to five people, then going to any one of the escape rooms in KL should be quite fun.

Some of the experiences can be scary, but overall quite fun. 

FRIM Canopy Walk

This is just outside KL, and is a suspended bridge walk in a lush, rainforested area. This allows you to experience a forest first hand without having to travel too far.

Changkat Street

For those who love to party, the nightlife at Changkat Street is not to be missed. There are plenty of clubs to choose from, and lots of international DJs come over to play at these clubs as well. 

Places to go if you… want something new and fresh 

Visit the batu caves .

These limestone caves are awe-inspiring and truly wonderful, and there is also a unique dark tour through the limestone caves to have a look at the bats. 

Petronas Philharmonic Hall

Want to listen to some of the finest classical music players in the world? Look no further than the DFP. The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra is well known around the world, and they have concerts on both weekdays and weekends. 

Make sure you grab a picture of the hall as well, which is on par with some of the best in Europe. 

Royal Selangor Visitor Center 

The home of our production of pewter goods, the Royal Selangor company has also recently partnered together with Star Wars to produce figurines based off popular characters from the movies, so get ready to unleash your inner nerd and try to collect all of these.

Selfie Museum

These are a relatively new phenomenon, but will give your Instagram feed tons of material for months to come. The KL Selfie Museum is located in Fahrenheit 88 shopping mall, so you can shop and snap at the same time.

Places to go if you want to see an authentic local market

Chow kit wet market.

Chow Kit is famous for two things – the red light district and the wet market .

At this market you’ll find an amazing variety of incredibly fresh fruit, vegetables and meat.

You’ll also see some delicacies that you probably don’t see very often, such as an entire fresh cows head.

Final word on interesting things to do in Kuala Lumpur

KL is a vibrant and welcoming city with a wide range of things to do, no matter your preference.

Most people only spend a couple of days here before moving on to other parts of Asia, but in my opinion, you could easily spend a week here falling in love with the place.

The food is renowned as some of the best in the world, the weather is welcoming all year round and the cost of living is very low compared to much of the rest of the world, it’s even great value compared to much of the rest of Asia.

I hope you have a great visit to Kuala Lumpur and that you get to experience at least a few of the recommendations on this list.

Safe travels!

I live in Asia and travel frequently. When I travel, I like to have nice experiences and be comfortable, but I've always got a keen eye on the price. On this website, I share the good and the bad that I encounter so that you can save time and money by learning from my experiences.

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3-Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: A Guide Of Things To Do in KL

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Our first trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia was a long layover – and we only had one day in Kuala Lumpur for sightseeing. We made the most of our short time – however, we knew we missed some of the best places to visit in KL.

It took a few years, but we finally made a return trip to discover the top Kuala Lumpur tourist spots and distinctive KL neighborhoods. To help other travelers experience the city like we did, we created a Kuala Lumpur Itinerary that features the top things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days.

Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary

Our KL Itinerary summarizes what to do in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days. After a brief introduction about the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, we provide a Kuala Lumpur sights map and some recommended KL tour options. 

Top Tip : Our KL Itinerary can also be used as a Kuala Lumpur Budget Travel Guide. Simply omit paying any entrance fees and only view structures (like Petronas Towers and KL Tower) from the outside.

Day-by-Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary 3 Days

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Kuala Lumpur Itinerary to plan your visit to KL!

Day 1 in Kuala Lumpur

On Day One of your Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia itinerary, experience some of the best things to do in KL: a cave temple and one of the world’s tallest towers.

Batu Caves Temple Half-Day Day Trip in Kuala Lumpur

Before you begin exploring the places of interest in Kuala Lumpur city center, take a half day trip from KL to the famous Batu Caves. The caves were formed in the limestone hills millions of years ago, but in the year 1890 a sacred statue of Sri Murugan Swami was erected in the cave.

Today, it’s called Temple Cave and – being just a short trip from KL – it is visited by people of all faiths and as a pilgrimage by Hindus. As one of the best places to visit near Kuala Lumpur, there are several things to see at Batu Caves.

What To See at Batu Caves 

Below the cave entrance is a gigantic golden statue of Lord Murugan, to whom the Batu Caves temple is dedicated. The statue is 140-feet-tall and until 2022 was the world’s tallest Murugan statue.

Near the base of the statue is the staircase – of 272 steps – that leads up to the Batu Cave entrance. In addition to the worshipers and visitors that climb the steps, local long-tailed macaque monkeys scamper up and down the stairs and along the railings. Take a break from the steep incline to catch your breath and watch the cheeky monkeys (but don’t feed them!).

Inside the massive caves, several shrines line the rock walls. During our visit, we witnessed a special blessing at the temple.

Visitors are free to explore the depths of the cave and the various religious icons and natural cave formations. Adventurous travelers can book abseiling and spelunking trips with tour companies who can organize Kuala Lumpur excursions.

Batu Caves can be reached by private vehicle and public transportation. The train from KL Sentral takes 30 minutes and costs about $1 roundtrip. Travelers who would rather travel with a guide can book a top-rated excursion for a Batu Caves tour from Kuala Lumpur. 

Petronas Towers and Kuala Lumpur City Centre

The iconic Petronas Towers are one of the top places to visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – and should be on every KL trip itinerary! Also known as the Petronas Twin Towers, the skyscrapers ranked as the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 until 2004, when their height of 1,483 feet was surpassed by the Taipei 101 building. (The Petronas Towers are still the World’s Tallest Twin Towers).

The 88-story towers mimic Islamic art forms (even though Malaysia is a multicultural country, more than 60% of the population is Muslim). The double-deck Skybridge connects the two towers on the 41st and 42nd floors.

Both KL Twin Towers are used for office space, but at their base is the upscale shopping mall, Suria KLCC, and the Petronas Philharmonic Concert Hall.

Visiting Petronas Tower during your 3 Days in Kuala Lumpur

One of the top Kuala Lumpur things to do in 3 days is to head up to the lofty Petronas Tower Observation Deck.

Visitors can ascend the towers to the 41st story Skybridge and the 86th floor observation deck. Petronas Tower tickets are sold in person the day of the visit and online. Due to the popularity of the Petronas Towers, only a limited number of tickets are sold each day and queues can be quite long.

Visitors short on time should consider buying Skip the Line tickets in advance, which include interactive displays detailing information about the towers and stops at viewpoints on both the Skybridge and 86th floor observation deck.  

As one of the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur, you will want to make sure you get the perfect photo of Petronas Towers. The best spots for pictures are from the end of the fountains on the northwest side of the buildings and from the KLCC Park on the southeast side of the towers.

Sunset Drinks with a View

In a city of skyscrapers, rooftop sunset drinks are a must for your KL trip plan. 

After taking in the stunning city views from the Petronas Towers, head to one of the nearby rooftop bars for sunset drinks with a view of the Petronas Towers. There are quite a few rooftop bars in Kuala Lumpur – popular venues include the award-winning SkyBar at Traders Kuala Lumpur, Marini’s on 57 and the Heli Lounge .

We were most intrigued by Heli Lounge, as guests are invited to take in 360-degree, unobstructed views ( No windows ! No railings !) from the rooftop helipad of the otherwise nondescript (ok, drab) Menara KH building.

Drinks at Heli Lounge during your 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Trip

Hardly one of KL’s best kept secrets, the Heli Lounge occupies two levels: the top floor of the building, where the airplane-themed bar is, and the open air rooftop deck helipad, where you can sip cocktails and watch the sunset.

The bar officially opens at 5:00pm, but guests are not allowed on the helipad until 6:00pm. We recommend arriving shortly after five, taking the dodgy elevators to the 34th floor and enjoying a round cocktails. It’s a good place to imbibe until they allow patrons to climb the steps to the open-air helipad with astounding views of both the Petronas Towers and the KL Tower.

Things to note about Heli Lounge : Arriving early will ensure you get a table to watch the sunset. If an empty table has a reserved sign, inquire with the staff if it is available, if there are no empty tables, ask to join another table. After 9:00pm, a dress code is enforced (no shorts, no flip flops and no sleeveless tops for men). As of 2023, there is an entrance fee of 100RM (about $23USD) that includes two drinks.

Symphony Fountain Lightshow at Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park

The next stop on your 3 Days in Kuala Lumpur Itinerary is the Symphony Fountain Show. The KLCC Park, a city center green space situated on the southeast side of the Petronas Towers is the perfect place to watch.

The 50-acre garden features tropical foliage, more than 1km of walking trails and a man-made pond, Symphony Lake.  

At the lake’s edge, just opposite the entrance to Suria KLCC, fountains spray water is a dazzling display – with the largest fountain able to spout water to the height of 350 feet. At night, the fountains are accompanied by music and lights in an incredible water show. Note : Special shows occur at 8pm, 9pm and 10pm.

Dinner near Petronas Towers

There are several highly-rated Kuala Lumpur restaurants near Petronas Towers that are perfect for dinner on the first of your three days in Kuala Lumpur. Top recommendations are Little Penang Café , Madam Kwan’s , Lai Po Heen and Mandarin Grill .

For dining with a different vibe, check out the food trucks at Tapak Urban Street Dining . Located just a short walk from Petronas Towers, multiple food trucks congregate in an open space to serve a variety of international fare. 

Day 2 in Kuala Lumpur

On your Day 2 Kuala Lumpur Day Tour Itinerary, view the city from another amazing vantage point. Then take a walk in the wild where you will likely spot monkeys. In the afternoon, cool off in one of KL’s best shopping malls before indulging in a variety of local cuisine.

The Kuala Lumpur Tower (also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur) is a communications tower…and an entertainment hub. A fun place to include on a Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary, there are a multitude of activities at the KL tower for travelers. 

Completed in 1995 and rising to 1381ft, KL Tower is still the 7th tallest freestanding tower in the world and provides the highest public viewing platform in the city.

It only takes 54 seconds for the elevator to transport visitors from the base to the 360-degree view. Book your ticket in advance with Viator !

In addition to the observation decks, other KL Tower attractions include the Atmosphere 360 revolving restaurant, cultural shows, a mini zoo, the Blue Coral Aquarium, the Upside Down House, the F1 Experience, numerous shops and a forest park. The KL Tower is a must for travelers planning a 3 Day KL Itinerary with kids! 

At night, the KL Tower lights can be seen from afar and multiple times after dark, the tower glows in a spectrum of colors in a synchronized light show.

KL Forest EcoPark

The KL Tower was built in the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve – where nature still reigns despite the modern marvel rising above it. In fact, a rare 100-year-old Jelutong Tree stands alongside the tower in a protective enclosure; the tower had to be built a few feet from where it was originally planned in order to accommodate the tree.

The Forest EcoPark is a fun attraction to include in a Kuala Lumpur trip plan – as it’s an opportunity to see the natural side of the city. The tropical rainforest was designated a reserve in 1906 and is home to endangered plant species, birds and monkeys. Walking paths allow nature lovers the opportunity to walk through the city-center tropical rainforest – and a Canopy Walk lets visitors get a view from the treetops.

Shopping in Bukit Bintang Area

KL is a well-known shopping mecca – and with 3 days in Kuala Lumpur, there is plenty of time for retail therapy! The Bukit Bintang district, which is located in the heart of the KL Golden Triangle (an area that comprises the central core), is best known for its high concentration of shopping malls and nightlife.

From the district’s main intersection – Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Bukit Bintang – a plethora of stores are just steps away. Fashionable clothing, electronics and accessories by recognizable international brands (and knock-offs) fill the shelves of the shops that are frequented by both locals and tourists.

Shopping malls are so much a part of the KL culture that the malls themselves have become Kuala Lumpur sightseeing places. Even if you don’t like to shop-til-you-drop, we recommend putting KL malls on your Kuala Lumpur city tour itinerary (if for no other reason than to bask in the cool air conditioning for just a moment!).

Top Bukit Bintang Malls for your Kuala Lumpur Visit

You can shop your heart out (or just wander) and these top rated KL Malls.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur: Housing a variety of stores, shoppers will find international luxury brands, like Hermes, Gucci, and Prada.

Lot 10: Recently redeveloped, visitors will find popular clothing stores, such as Zara and H&M.

Low Yat Plaza:  The entire multi-level mall is dedicated to gadgets; a tech geek paradise.

Sungei Wang Plaza: Bukit Bintang’s oldest mall offers merchandise for budget shoppers.

Starhill Gallery:  This is Kuala Lumpur’s most glamorous mall, with a Louis Vuitton flagship store.

Berjaya Times Square: One of the largest shopping malls in the world…with Malaysia’s largest indoor theme park occupies the upper floors (yes, including roller coasters).

Top Tip: Berjaya Times Square is one of the favorite kids attractions in Kuala Lumpur.

Jalan Alor Food Street

Jalan Alor Street is the place where both tourists and locals go for a fun experience in KL dining. In fact, we think eating street food on Jalan Alor is a must for your 3 Days Kuala Lumpur Itinerary. 

During the day there isn’t much going on food-wise (but it’s a great time to seek out street art). However, after 5:00pm, Jalan Alor Food Street is one of the Kuala Lumpur best places to visit to sample the local cuisine.

An incredible number of hawker stalls dishing up local Malay and Chinese cuisine line the street, enticing passers-by with tantalizing scents and bargain meals (so it’s a great option for dinner on a KL budget trip!). The street gets packed with visitors and the best stalls have crowds surrounding them.

Some vendors offer food-on-the-go options, while others serve heaping platters to customers sitting on low stools at plastic tables in a hustle and bustle ambiance.

What To Eat on Jalan Alor Street

We suggest just wandering the street and consider trying some of the exotic and foreign foods along the way. Not interested in the oddities? No problem! Go for the dim sum, grilled skewers or handcrafted fried ice cream.

Looking for char kway teow with duck egg when visiting Kuala Lumpur? You can find it on Jalar Alor. Never tried durian fruit? This is your chance…if you can handle the potent fragrance.

At the end of the street, wait for a table at Wong Ah Wah (don’t worry, tables open up frequently – or agree to share a table and get seated sooner) where they specialize is BBQ chicken wings and satay sticks.

Top Tip: Wong Ah Wah was one of our favorite places to eat in Kuala Lumpur! After a short wait (we opted for a shared table) and a few rounds of beer, we devoured a plate of perfectly grilled chicken wings. More on what and where to eat in KL a bit later.

Changkat Bukit Bintang Bars

KL is a far cry from the 24/7 party of Bangkok , but Changkat Bukit Bintang street is an exception. The street – actually just a short 1/10th of a mile – is absolutely chock-a-block with bars. If you are wondering what to do in Kuala Lumpur at night, the bars on Changkat might be the answer.

All of the bars offer al fresco seating along the street – and a few have open-air upstairs balconies. Some of the best Kuala Lumpur nightclubs – like Havana, The Whisky Bar and Rockafellers – are found on Changkat Bukit Bintang.

Top Tip: The one caveat is that alcohol isn’t cheap in KL. Expect a pint of typical beer to set you back $6-8 USD. Happy hour specials will knock a dollar or two off the price; check the chalkboards outside.

Day 3 in Kuala Lumpur

On Day 3 of your KL city tour itinerary, explore one of the most beautiful places in Kuala Lumpur – the city gardens – then design a self-guided Kuala Lumpur walking tour to three of the most interesting districts.

Perdana Botanical Gardens

The Kuala Lumpur Perdana Botanical Garden (formerly known as Taman Tasik Perdana and Lake Gardens) is a lovely respite in the congested city.

Ranking as KL’s oldest garden, the 250-acre Botanical Garden was first designed in the 1880s. Today, the public park is a popular recreational area, which features a number of attractions for your 3 Days Itinerary in Kuala Lumpur. Explore the gardens from north to south, and consider visiting one or more of the sites along the way. 

Top Tip: The KL Botanical Garden is free to visit, however, some of the attractions charge an entry fee. Free bathrooms are located throughout the park.

Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur Botanical Garden

Visitors could fill their entire Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary with the attractions in the Perdana Garden – there are just so many! We recommend choosing a few sights that are most interesting to you.

National Monument – A war memorial dedicated to those who died for Malaysia’s freedom. The bronze sculpture of a group of soldiers (representing leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice) was built in 1966 and stands 50 feet tall. Note : The National Monument is just north of the Botanical Gardens.

ASEAN Sculpture Garden – Featuring numerous sculptures by ASEAN artists, the garden is a peaceful place to visit. Note : The ASEAN Sculpture Garden is to the north of the Botanical Gardens.

Sunken Garden – The sculpted shrubs in the Sunken Garden create a beautiful work of art and are one of the most popular places to visit at the KL Botanic Gardens.

Orchid Garden – With more than 6,000 orchids representing 800 species, the Orchid Garden includes both common and rare orchids.

Hibiscus Garden – The hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia; the Hibiscus Garden is located near an old colonial building and features two fountains.

Butterfly Park KL – The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is home to more than 5,000 butterflies (of which 120 species are accounted for), as well as a multitude of other flora and fauna. The park covers an area of 80,000 square feet and mimics their natural habitat. ( Fee )

KL Bird Park – The 21-acre Bird Park aviary is one of the world’s largest bird parks and one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. More than 3,000 birds (most of which are native), live in the bird park, which dates to the year 1888. ( Fee )

Laman Perdana and Lake – The lake at the center of the garden is filled with fish and turtles. At the main intersection in the park, is a covered, open space for events, Laman Perdana.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia – Featuring 12 galleries and more than 7,000 Islamic artifacts, the award-winning IAMM is the largest museum of Islamic art in Southeast Asia. ( Fee )

National Mosque of Malaysia – The National Mosque (Masjid Negara) compound sprawls over 13 acres of land and can accommodate 15,000 people. The unusual roof looks like an open umbrella – while the 240-foot-tall minaret resembles a closed umbrella.

National Planetarium – The 120,000 square foot National Planetarium opened in 1993. The blue-domed building sits atop a hill and features space science exhibits and a space theater.

National Museum of Malaysia – The National Museum , housed in a traditional Malay structure, has four main galleries of displays that focus on the country’s history, culture and traditions. ( Fee )

Brickfields and Little India

Some of the best attractions in Kuala Lumpur are not ‘sights’ but districts – and Brickfields is one of the most interesting places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

Once the center of the brick-making industry and now KL’s transportation hub, Brickfields is home to a smattering of colonial architecture, a harmonious multi-cultural community and vibrant Little India.

Many tourists using public transportation in Kuala Lumpur pass through Brickfields and don’t even realize it; the KL Sentral Station lies within the district.

Those interested in sightseeing Kuala Lumpur Brickfields should make sure to see these buildings:

• Vivekananda Ashramam
• Maha Vihara Temple
• Sri Kandaswamy Temple

For more sights, use this self-guided free tour of Kuala Lumpur Brickfields. 

The real gem of the district, however, is the colorful streets of Little India. The Little India enclave of restaurants (selling savory banana-leaf curries) and textile shops (selling stylish saris) is full of energy. Bright colors decorate the streets and Bollywood music fills the air. It’s one of the best places to wander on a visit to Kuala Lumpur.

Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square – which translates to Independence Square and locally called Dataran Merdeka – is a large, open grassy field. The square and many of the surrounding structures were built by the British in the late 1800s; and were used for both police training and cricket.

On August 30, 1957, it was in Merdeka Square that the Malaysian flag was raised in independence from the British for the first time. Today, an enormous Malaysian flag still flies at the southern end of the field and the buildings around it are historic landmarks. We are highlighting a few of the Merdeka Square buildings of interest. 

Sultan Abdul Samad Building  

Built in the 1890s for the British government, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is the most prominent and ornate building on the square. Top features of the KL landmark building are the copper dome and soaring clock tower (that houses a 1-ton bell). 

Royal Selangor Club  

Founded in 1884 by the British elite in Kuala Lumpur, the Selangor Club has a long history and become a KL institution. Visitors can admire the Tudor-style building from the outside, but the club is members-only.

The former National History Museum

A fine example of a colonial era structure, the building was completed in 1909 and has historically housed banks and more recently, museums. 

Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

Originally built as the Government Printing Office in 1898, the beautiful building now houses the KL City Gallery. The interior of the building has a few distinct original features – as well as exhibits on the history of Kuala Lumpur. Plus, the I Love KL sign sits just outside and is fun for photos! Find out more here .

Textile Museum  

Housed in an exceptional heritage building that dates to 1896, the Textile Museum features exhibits that tell the story of KL history through fabric and clothing. There is a nominal fee to enter the museum . 

St. Mary’s Anglican Cathedral  

Designed in the Early English Gothic style, St. Mary’s Cathedral in Kuala Lumpur dates to the late 1800s and features a grand organ. 

Top Tip: There is a Free Walking Tour Kuala Lumpur Merdeka Heritage – more info can be found here .

Jamek Mosque

The Jamek Mosque, also called ‘Friday Mosque,’ is the oldest mosque in KL and is located where the Klang and Gombak Rivers meet. Built in 1909 using ancient Moorish, Islam and Mughal architectural styles, it was the premier mosque in the country until National Mosque was built.

The mosque is open to visitors (outside of prayer times) and guests need to wear appropriate attire (robes and scarves are available for use at the entrance).

Top Tip: For the best views of the mosque, go to the lookout point over the river on Leboh Pasar Besar (south of the mosque). After dark, there are special light and water features.

Chinatown KL

KL Chinatown is an exciting neighborhood – and one of the best places to go in Kuala Lumpur to experience the city. Markets, temples, shophouses and speakeasys make the district an entertaining spot both day and night.

We recommend arriving in Chinatown in the late afternoon, so you can see the neighborhood both in the daylight and after dark. These are the top sights in Chinatown (and can be seen in order on your own self-guided KL sightseeing tour):

Central Market

The Art Deco Central Market building dates to 1937, but the site has hosted a market since 1888. The original wet market has transformed from a gritty local market into a sleek establishment for all to enjoy.

Kasturi Walk

The shophouses on Kasturi Walk were built in the 1930s in the neo-classical style. A couple shops on the street still sell traditional Chinese medicine and herbs.

Guan di Temple

The classic red Chinese temple, Guan di Temple, was built in 1888 and is dedicated to a warrior. While the architectural elements are striking, many people visit the temple to see the Guan Dao – a Chinese sword that worshipers lift or touch for special blessings.

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

Built in 1873, the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur. The incredibly ornate Raja Gopuram (tower) was added in 1968.

Petaling Street Market

Tourist and locals come to Petaling Street to haggle over prices of merchandise and feast on Chinese fare. However, we liked the vibe on Jalan Hang Lekir better. We highly recommend eating at Kim Lian Kee  or one of the other restaurants along the street with a crowd ( always a good sign! ).

Kuala Lumpur Chinatown Bars

Chinatown offers an interesting mix of Kuala Lumpur nightlife options. People-watching from a low stool at a plastic table on Jalan hang Lekir Street while sipping a few cold beers is a great way to spend an evening in KL. There are, however, a few notable bars in Chinatown that visitors might want to check out.

A well-known drinking establishment in Chinatown is Reggae Bar , a (you guessed it!) Bob Marley-themed bar serving cocktails to mostly fellow travelers with reggae beats continuously feeding through the speakers.

Other bars in the district are secretive (and expensive) speakeasys that can only be accessed by those in-the-know. PS150 and The Berlin KL are the two most popular.

Kuala Lumpur Map of Sights

Travelers can use this KL map to help plan their Kuala Lumpur Itinerary for 3 Days.  Use this Google Map of Kuala Lumpur Sights on an interactive version of the one below.

What to Eat in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

We were equally excited and intimidated about eating in Kuala Lumpur. We love trying new food and the multicultural city boasts an array of cuisine…most of which is spicy. As I do not like spicy food (as in, I can’t handle it), I had to abandon my normal whimsical ways of ordering foreign food.

This only put a slight damper in our feasting, as most places were accommodating to my requests. (And, whatever was too spicy for me became a extra serving for Kris!) Fortunately, Chinese food is as prevalent in KL as Malay food – and is simpler to get not spicy. 

Best Restaurants for your 3 Day Itinerary Kuala Lumpur

We gorged on Chinese street food on Jalan Alor Food Street (and nearby at Mongolian BBQ on Tengkat Tong Shin – look for the green lanterns) and in Chinatown (see above recommendations).

For traditional Malay food, we found two superb places, conveniently located right next to each other (and just steps from our Airbnb apartment – more on where we stayed in a minute!). 

Our top pick for Malaysian fare was Kedai Mamak Husin , where the staff oh-so patiently answered my long list of inquiries regarding spiciness. With incredibly inexpensive prices and an extensive menu, we ordered dish after dish!

Just a few doors down, Warung Mama Malay Restaurant is where we ate the most delicious Malay-style fried chicken. The friendly staff at both restaurants made our introduction to Malay food a delightful experience. Note : Warung Mama is now closed! Try Murni Discovery around the corner for good Malaysian Buttermilk Chicken!

More Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Although we have outlined a comprehensive 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary, there are more sights to see in Kuala Lumpur! Here are a few more ideas to add – or substitute – into your KL trip itinerary:

Thean Hou Temple

Located south of the city center, Thean Hou Temple was built in 1989. The ornate and grandiose complex sits on 1.5 acres of land. The modern temple features a dramatic gateway, a prayer hall with three altars, a medicinal herb garden, Wishing Well and turtle pond.

Unfortunately, Thean Hou Temple can only be reached by car – no public transit lines go to the temple. We recommend booking a tour or using the Grab app for transportation.

Chow Kit Market

Unlike the tidy Central Market geared toward tourists, Chow Kit Market is a gritty market where locals go to shop. Within the depths of market stalls, visitors will find both a wet and dry market, haggling vendors, foul scents and an authentic experience!

National Palace KL

Malaysia’s National Palace, called Istana Negara, is the home of the Malaysian Monarch. Situated on a hill, the sprawling complex (which was completed in 2011) is simply massive. Encompassing 28 acres, the palace has 22 domes – and on the grounds there is a pool, a six-hole golf course and indoor tennis courts.

At the grand gates, two soldiers of the Royal Malay Regiment stand guard. Visitors are not allowed past the entrance gates, but can get a good look at the palace from outside.

TREC Nightlife

TREC (which stands for Taste, Relish, Experience, Celebrate) is hub of nightlife in KL. The entertainment complex features 11 clubs – including the popular Zouk KL.

Tour Kuala Lumpur

Our suggestions of what to see in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days covers the top sights that are featured on many Kuala Lumpur sightseeing tours. However, hiring a KL tour guide can enhance your 3 days in KL.

KL Walking Tour

There are several Kuala Lumpur Walking Tours with professional guides who lead the way! You can book a half-day tour Kuala Lumpur in advance of your trip on Viator – or take a look at these tours in KL: City Bike Tour and KL Food Tour .

Kuala Lumpur Bus Tour

For a relaxing Kuala Lumpur local tour, hop on an air-conditioned bus to see the best sights of the city. Book it now!

Kuala Lumpur Day Tour From Airport

Have a long layover in KL? Get out of the airport and see the city sights! Hire a private guide to pick you up at the airport and show you the best of Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur Day Trips

There are many KL day tour options for visitors who want to sightsee beyond the city limits. Consider one of these short trips from Kuala Lumpur to add to your Malaysia trip itinerary:

Historic Malacca KL Day Trip – Learn the history and culture of the beautiful old port city, Malacca, on a full day trip from the city. Find out more! 

Genting Highlands and Cable Car – Experience a day of entertainment in Genting Highlights, home to Southeast Asia’s longest cable car, a theme park, casino and more! Learn more about this trip!

Taman Negara Rainforest – After visiting Batu Caves, embark on a journey into the Taman Negara Rainforest, including walking in the treetop canopy, visiting a local village, a boat ride and lunch at a floating cafe. Book it now!

Kanching Waterfalls and Hot Springs – Start the day visiting Batu Caves then go off the beaten track to soak in the Selayang Hot Springs, eat a traditional Malaysian meal and end your half-day tour at the 7-tiered Kanching Waterfalls. Read the rave reviews!

Planning a Trip to Kuala Lumpur

We have outlined a perfect KL Itinerary for 3 days – and have shared tips on more of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur – but there is still more to do! 

Travelers need to determine how many days for their trip, how to get there and where to stay in KL – and we have tips to help you plan the best Malaysia vacation .

As you make your Malaysia trip plans, you need to stay organized. Use our Travel Planning Printables to keep track of all the details of your vacation to Malaysia!

How Many Days in Kuala Lumpur

When trying to figure out how many days to spend in Kuala Lumpur factor in the time you have, the sights you want to see, leisurely activities and your budget. Based on our outlined 3-Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary, we have a few tips on what to do in KL – either with more or less time in the city.  

KL One Day Trip

Need a Kuala Lumpur itinerary for 1 day? Pick and choose from our suggestions of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days – or skip on over to our 1 day in Kuala Lumpur post .

2 Days in Kuala Lumpur

If you are looking for the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days, the above Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia travel itinerary is a good place to start! With two days in Kuala Lumpur, we recommend (mostly) following the above Kuala Lumpur Itinerary for Day 1, then picking from the activities on Days 2 and 3 to create an itinerary of what to do in Kuala Lumpur on Day 2 based on your interests.

This is, personally, what our 2-Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary would look like:

• Day 1: Batu Caves, Malls, Petronas Towers, Jalan Alor Food Street, Changkat Bukit Bintang Bars
• Day 2: KL Tower, EcoPark, Little India, Merdeka Square, Chinatown

4 Days in Kuala Lumpur (or more!)

With 4 days or even a week in Kuala Lumpur, you aren’t likely to run out of KL things to do! Use our 3-Day KL Itinerary outlined above then add some of the suggestions from More Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur, a KL tour and a day trip or two!

With a longer stay, we would also highly recommend booking accommodations with a swimming pool for afternoons when you just want to chill.

More Destinations for your Malaysia Itinerary

Planning a trip to multiple destinations in Malaysia and the region? We’ve got your covered! In addition to our suggested itinerary for Kuala Lumpur, visitors can use our guides to top destinations in the region to help plan their trip. 

• Visiting Penang, Malaysia ? Great! Get ready with our list of the Best Things To Do In Penang !
• Also visiting Johor Bahru ? Read our detailed guide to JB !
• Heading over to Singapore as well? Use our Ultimate Singapore Itinerary !

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Choosing where to stay in KL is no easy task. Not only is the city home to a range of hotels and holiday apartments, but travelers are also tasked with deciding which district to stay in. 

Like in any big city, we think it is best to stay in accommodations that are centrally located to top attractions. For travelers who plan on exploring KL using public transit, it is also wise to choose a hotel in Kuala Lumpur that is close to public transport lines. 

Personally, we think the Bukit Bintang district is the best place to stay in KL. The district is within walking distance to many sights and attractions, but away from the crowds. That said, travelers who want to be in the heart of the action and closest to Kuala Lumpur attractions should stay in KLCC. 

Kuala Lumpur Hotels

There are many, many,  many hotels in Kuala Lumpur – from luxury accommodations to budget stays. We are featuring a few of the top-rated hotels in Kuala Lumpur that are often-raved-about by fellow travelers.

Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Situated in the heart of the city, Traders Hotel offers a modern property at affordable rates. Amenities include a spa, indoor pool and 2 on-site dining options – including an open-air rooftop bar with Petronas Tower views. Check rates and availability!

Grand Hyatt KL Hotel

A luxurious 5-star property, the Grand Hyatt in KLCC is an exceptional place to stay on a trip to Kuala Lumpur. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable beds. Plus, they get rave reviews for their breakfasts. Check rates for your stay!

ANSA Kuala Lumpur Hotel

Modern and eco-friendly, ANSA Hotel has a fantastic location near attractions and is close to the Bukit Bintang Monorail Station. Plus, the rooms are clean and offer good value for money. Check availability for your stay!

1000 Miles Kuala Lumpur Hotel

Offering both dorm stays and private rooms, 1000 Miles Kuala Lumpur Hotel is a great option for budget travelers. The hotel is situated close to bus and rail lines. Check the rates!

Start your search for Kuala Lumpur hotels (or a hostel in Kuala Lumpur) on Booking.com . First, read our tips for How To Find the Best Rates on Hotels .

On our second trip to Kuala Lumpur, we stayed in a fantastic Airbnb Apartment ! We found this apartment in a new tower complex, which was well-located in the Bukit Bintang district. 

The features that we enjoyed most about the property (and ones that we would look for in other accommodations) were the infinity pool on the 6th floor – and the jacuzzi and garden on the 42nd floor rooftop deck (with incredible KL views).

Pro Tip: Airbnb is not the only option for finding vacation rentals! Travelers can search Booking.com for holiday apartments, as well.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur

The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is a massive complex to the south of the city center. Home base for Malaysia Airlines as well as the top budget airline of SE Asia, Air Asia. Malaysia Airlines (and all international airlines) operate at KLA1, Air Asia is out of a dedicated terminal, KLA2.

We have arrived to KL from numerous destinations including Krabi, Thailand , Perth, Australia and Phnon Penh, Cambodia and departed to Phuket, Thailand , Bali, Indonesia and Frankfurt, Germany to name just a few!

Start your search for the best flight deals on Skyscanner  – but first get our Tips for Finding Cheap Airfare !

What To Pack for Kuala Lumpur

Now that you are ready to go to Kuala Lumpur, it’s time to pack your bags . We are sharing a few packing hacks  – but you can find all of our advice on our Packing Tips page. Also – get your FREE Packing Checklist !

The Right Shoes for Travel

Between the heat and the uneven pavement, Kuala Lumpur is not an easy city to walk around. As we cover some ground in our 3 Day Itinerary KL – it’s essential to have the right travel shoes ! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by Columbia and Reef . Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell or these by Sanuk .

Travel Camera

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your KL trip. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera . We travel with a Canon Rebel , which comes with a robust kit of accessories, takes amazing photos and is a great budget camera option.

KL Map and Guidebook

It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city…and that’s also true of Kuala Lumpur! Make sure to have a good city map  and/or  guidebook before arriving.

Whether you travel to Malaysia with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll also want a great Day Bag to carry your everyday travel essentials in!

Malaysia Travel Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Malaysia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 15 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

15 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the Capital of Malaysia and one of the largest cities in Asia, is a bustling city which offers plenty to do for everyone.

You could visit the iconic Petronas Towers, get lost in Chinatown, or take in some nature by exploring the Botanical Gardens and Bird Park.

Kuala Lumpur — or KL, as the locals call it — is so big and has so much to offer that you could probably spend a lifetime exploring it and still find daily surprises within the city.

However, if you find yourself in this modern city, it would be a shame if you didn’t take the time to check out some of the other amazing places that mainland Malaysia has to offer.

Here, you will find the best neighboring places to take a day trip to while getting out of the big city and exploring beautiful Malaysia.

1. Batu Caves

Batu Caves is the easiest destination to get to on our list and can be reached in a short time, either by car or train since it is only about 13 kilometers outside of the city.

The caves are free to enter but be prepared for a little exercise; the entrance is located at the top of 272 stairs. The limestone caves consist of three large caverns as well as several smaller caves off the main rooms.

Inside the caves, there are several Hindu shrines and Swamis to view, and outside of the caves, there is a giant statue of Lord Murgan.

If you are lucky enough to go on a clear day, you will get a great view of the KL skyline from atop the stairs.

Recommended tour :  Kuala Lumpur: Private Tour to the Batu Caves

2. Kuala Selangor

Heading west out of Kuala Lumpur, you will reach the small coastal town of Kuala Selangor. It is home to the largest firefly colony in the world, which creates an amazing scene every night.

The best way to view the fireflies is on a relaxing boat tour up the Selangor river with a local guide, who will give you lots of information about the area.

If the fireflies aren’t enough for you, Kuala Selangor is also home to the Melawati Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot countless rare birds and monkeys. If you find yourself hungry, make sure to try some of the local seafood that is caught fresh daily.

Suggested tour :  Kuala Selangor: Fireflies Tour with Batu Caves & Dinner

3. Genting Highlands

If you are feeling lucky, make sure to take a trip out to Genting Highlands, Malaysia’s only casino resort located in the beautiful mountains just north of Kuala Lumpur.

If gambling isn’t your thing that’s fine, you can enjoy the huge indoor/outdoor theme park. With roller coasters, the only skydiving simulator in Asia, and many more rides, it is sure to get adrenaline pumping through your veins.

Lastly, don’t forget the chance to go on the longest and fastest cable car in Asia that will provide you with stunning views of the rainforest beneath.

Available tour : From Kuala Lumpur: Genting Highlands and Batu Caves Day Trip

4. Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands are 200 kilometers outside of Kuala Lumpur and the journey takes about three hours each way.

The drive alone is worth it, as it takes you through beautiful green forests before arriving at Malaysia’s largest highlands resort.

The temperatures are cooler and the air is noticeably fresher in the Cameron Highlands which makes it a great place to escape to during the warm summer months.

Visiting the tea plantations and sipping on a nice warm cup of tea is a must. You can also pick strawberries on strawberry farms, wander through rose gardens, and visit butterfly and honeybee farms.

If you are feeling extra brave, take a dip in the freezing cold waters of Lata Iskandar waterfall.

Recommended tour :  From Kuala Lumpur: Cameron Highlands Private Full Day Tour

Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a charming little town — much different than the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur.

Malacca was once home to both Portuguese and Dutch settlers, and you can still see many signs of both cultures in the small town. If you want to learn more about the early settlers, visit the Malacca Museum, located in bright pink buildings which used to be home to Dutch administrative offices.

Walking down Jonker Street is a must; if you are lucky enough to be in Malacca on the weekend, Jonker Street is home to the biggest market in the town, where you can try all different kinds of local food.

Available tour :  Full-Day Trip to Historical Malacca from Kuala Lumpur

Bentong is a quaint little town that was originally built by tin miners after they found tin in the Perting and Repas rivers.

Bentong is the perfect place to escape to if you are tired of the rush in Kuala Lumpur and looking for some peace and quiet. It is off the beaten path of tourists and home to both delicious food and nature.

If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try some of the local homemade ice cream or the pineapple puffs.

If you are feeling adventurous, go try some of the infamous smelly durian fruit at Jimmy’s Durian Orchard.

7. Taman Negara

If you are a nature enthusiast and love spending time in the great outdoors, then Taman Negara is an absolute must. People literally travel from all over the world to get the chance to explore one of the most biodiverse places on our planet.

Taman Negara is home to some of the rarest animals alive today and is one of the oldest rainforests on earth.

Day treks with local guides are available or you can do multi-day treks if you are up for sleeping out with the wildlife. Boat rides and a canopy walk are also possible while in Taman Negara.

Recommended tour :  From Kuala Lumpur: Private Full Day Tour to Taman Negara

Klang is not the most common day trip from Kuala Lumpur but it has more than enough attractions to create a fun day.

Klang has a large Indian population and a lot of Indian influence and this is transparent in some of the most interesting places in the city.

Little India is a great place to start your trip to Klang and some of the mosques, like Masjid India Klang, are also beautiful to visit.

If you are looking to do any shopping on your day trip from KL, Klang also has great malls.

Klang Parade and the Big Mall are just two of the many large shopping complexes that you can end up finding yourself spending money in for hours.

9. Bukit Tinggi

In Bukit Tinggi, the most popular activity is exploring the Colmar Tropical Resort, which feels like you are walking through a 16th-century French village. The buildings are all constructed in old European architecture, there are delicious French bakeries, and there are even cobblestone streets.

If you are up for more walking, you can hike up to the Japanese Gardens and enjoy an authentic cup of tea and a spa.

There are no public buses that go to Bukit Tinggi, so plan accordingly; you can either take a private shuttle bus from Kuala Lumpur or hire a taxi, but that would most likely be quite an expensive trip.

Ipoh is well-regarded as a culinary hot spot within Malaysia. In the local markets of Ipoh, you will find all different kinds of exotic food to taste. When it’s time for a proper meal, make sure to try either the Ipoh chicken rice or the shredded chicken noodle’s.

Once your stomach is full of food, head over to Nam Heong, home of the world-famous Ipoh White Coffee.

Walking around Ipoh, you will also find many small, hidden temples and some fascinating street art.

The perfect place to end the day is soaking in the hot springs of The Lost World of Tambun.

11. Fraser’s Hill

Fraser’s Hill is full of popular hiking trails and a great place to escape from the city. Even though it is one of the most popular places to go outside of Kuala Lumpur — since there are lots of different trails and activities — you can easily avoid the people.

Along the trails, there are countless small waterfalls and hundreds of different species of birds. If bird watching is really your thing, you can hire a private guide to take you out.

If you are more of a golfer, tee off at the Royal Fraser’s Hill Golf Club.

12. Pulau Ketam

Pulau Ketam — or Crab Island — is a small fishing village to the west of Kuala Lumpur that has been completely built upon stilts over mangrove swamps.

Even though it is not located far from KL, you could not envision a place that is more different.

The people here are almost all fisherman and seeing them hard at work during the day or night is an impressive sight.

It is famous for its fresh seafood, so make sure to indulge and try as many of the different local foods as you can.

13. Putrajaya

Putrajaya is not normally on the tourist map but it has many things to offer. Putrajaya is the federal administrative capital of Malaysia and home to some of the most famous landmarks in Malaysia.

On a walking tour of the city, you can see the pink-domed Putra Mosque, the Prime Minister’s office, Seri Perdana, and a handful of famous bridges.

The Natural History Museum houses many Malaysian national treasures and is also a great place to learn about local plants, animals, and geological rock formations.

If you want to escape the urban landscapes, check out the botanical gardens, home to over 700 plant species.

14. Port Dickson

For anyone looking to relax at the beach and soak up some rays, this is the ideal day trip getaway. There are over 11 miles of beaches to choose from, so you will be able to find a calm and quiet place for yourself.

The Blue Lagoon is the most popular swimming spot along the coast and is a great place to take a dip if you are so inclined.

If you want to work up a sweat before going in the water, hike up to the Cape Rachado lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

15. Sekinchan

Malaysia is not as well known for their rice fields as some other Asian countries, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have any.

Sekinchan has field after field of rice paddies that you can wander around and has scenic views year-round.

The local fishing village catches fresh seafood daily, so after you have worked up an appetite, go and dine on some local seafood and rice that grew right where you were just walking.

If you want to learn more about the rice and how it is grown and produced, visit the Paddy Processing Gallery.

Lastly, don’t forget to make all your wishes come true by visiting Sekinchan’s Wishing Tree.

15 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur:

• Kuala Selangor
• Genting Highlands
• Cameron Highlands
• Taman Negara
• Bukit Tinggi
• Fraser’s Hill
• Pulau Ketam
• Port Dickson

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Visit Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Accommodation
• Things to do

Kuala Lumpur is best viewed at night, with a drink in hand, from one of its many sky bars. You can see the lights of a great urban web flickering below, and a horizon lit with minarets and skyscrapers. Many roads are illuminated with rows of naked bulbs that hang over steaming street-food stalls, while others glow with the red light of a Chinese temple lantern. And, overlooking it all are the rocket-like twins of the Petronas Towers, who give the city a sci-fi edge.

Eating is so synonymous with Kuala Lumpur’s culture that we suggest taking a guided walking tour of the city’s main districts, stopping to taste delicacies along the way . There’s a common Malaysian phrase for it, ‘Jalan jalan cari makan’ (literally translated as ‘walking and finding nice food’).

Near the Jamek Mosque , the oldest and most revered in the city, you might try nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish. In the souvenir-filled central market you can taste hokkien mee, a type of Chinese noodles. Head toward the Hindu Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and vendors will serve you sweet cendol, a coconut-based Indian dessert. There are a number of museums dotted around the city, from the National Textiles Museum, which occupies a grand marble building once the offices of the railway ministry, to the National Museum, which tackles Malaysia’s history from prehistory to present day. If you only have time for one, make it the Islamic Arts Museum, which showcases fine jewelry, manuscripts and architecture.

The Menara Tower does have a restaurant and bar, but for the best drinks with a view we highly rate a sky 33 (vodka and kiwi puree) at the SkyBar in Traders Hotel. From the open-air cocktail bar, you’re so close to the illuminated Petronas Towers that you can see individual floors, each one tipping outward slightly in a nod to traditional Malaysian architecture.

Best time to visit Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a year-round destination, with temperatures hovering at around 85°F (30°C). Continuously humid and prone to the occasional shower, the city does get slightly more rain in April and May. The city is at its busiest during Chinese New Year and Ramadan.

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Suggested itineraries featuring Kuala Lumpur

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Kuala Lumpur, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Whistle-stop Malaysia

12 days from $3,495pp

Classic Malaysia tour

12 days from $3,425pp

Culinary tour of Malaysia

14 days from $4,430pp

Grand tour of Malaysia

16 days from $6,275pp

Historical Malaysia & Singapore

13 days from $5,080pp

Malaysia's unspoilt beaches & Kuala Lumpur

13 days from $5,130pp

Snapshot of Sabah

10 days from $5,910pp

Borneo's rivers, mountains & beaches tour

11 days from $4,180pp

Jungles & beaches of Malaysia & Borneo

12 days from $4,200pp

Map of Kuala Lumpur

Places & hotels on the map, places near kuala lumpur.

• Fraser's Hill (Bukit Fraser) 39 miles away
• Malacca 77 miles away
• Cameron Highlands 95 miles away
• Taman Negara National Park 107 miles away
• Pangkor Islands 108 miles away
• The East Coast 121 miles away
• Belum Rainforest 169 miles away
• Tioman Island 172 miles away
• Kuala Terengganu 178 miles away
• Penang 184 miles away
• Redang Island 203 miles away
• Perhentian Islands 203 miles away
• Langkawi 258 miles away

Photos of Kuala Lumpur

Our expert guides to exploring Kuala Lumpur

Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Kuala Lumpur, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Kuala Lumpur at its best.

A fusion of cultures: our highlights of Malaysia guide

A street-food tour in George Town, or a cooking lesson in Malacca? Specialist Shannon highlights her key experiences in Malaysia, from major sights like the capital Kuala Lumpur to remote private-island beaches.

Malaysia luxury vacations

If you're planning a luxury vacation to Malaysia we have a wide range of accommodations available, as recommended by our specialists, from luxury beach resorts to top class hotels.

Honeymoons in Malaysia

Southeast Asia specialist Jess shares her suggestions for a honeymoon in Malaysia that balances private-island relaxation with history, wildlife-spotting in the jungle, and the buzz of city life.

Accommodation choices for Kuala Lumpur

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Kuala Lumpur. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

The RuMa Hotel and Residences

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Villa Samadhi

Mandarin Oriental

Ideas for experiencing kuala lumpur.

Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Kuala Lumpur, and which use the best local guides.

Cooking Course & Market Visit

Besides learning to prepare a traditional Malaysian home-cooked meal, this cooking tour will also allow you to gain an interesting insight into the cultural and social composition of the country.

Kuala Lumpur Heritage Walking Tour

This tour gives you a hands-on experience of Kuala Lumpur from the ground and takes you to some of the lesser known areas as well as the key city highlights.

Petronas Towers Tour

The 88 story Petronas Twin Towers reach 452 meters into the air. On this tour you can walk across the glass bridge between the towers, looking straight down to the ground as you cross!

Thaipusam Festival

By far the most shocking and spectacular celebration within Malaysia is the Hindu festival, Thaipusam, which happens every year in the Hindu month of Thai (January/February) when the constellation of Pusam is in its ascendancy.

Street food tour in Kuala Lumpur

Enjoy a gastronomic journey of discovery via a walking tour of Kuala Lumpur. Accompanied by your local food guide, the evening tour allows you to sample some of Malaysia’s most famous dishes.

Kuala Lumpur City Tour

Despite the fast-paced development, Kuala Lumpur has managed to draw a fine balance of multi-story buildings, skyscrapers and historical sites amidst lush greenery. The garden city image of KL during the city tour can prove to be extremely fascinating.

15 of the best things to do in Malaysia

Jan 22, 2024 • 11 min read

Experience the best of Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Can't decide between visiting dive sites and tropical beaches, hiking through mountains  or exploring swish city centers? Deliberate no more – Malaysia has you covered with its amazing array of things to do. 

This Southeast Asian nation has an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultures and cuisines. In the cities, minarets, mandirs and Chinese temples share the skyline with space-age high-rises. Beyond the urban bustle are rainforests, mountains and radiant beaches .

From Peninsular Malaysia to the island of Borneo , traditional arts, crafts and recipes endure – even as cities hurtle towards the latest architectural and gastronomic trends. Here are Malaysia's unmissable experiences.

1. Sip tea at the source in the Cameron Highlands

Once upon a time, Malaysia's sweaty British colonialists fled to higher ground, founding hill stations where they could retreat from the heat and jump-start a tea industry. The most famous are in the Cameron Highlands , and today it's mostly tourists (local and foreign) who come to seek respite from Malaysia's muggy lowlands.

These 1300m to 1829m heights (4265ft to 6000ft) offer plenty of hikes , as well as strawberry plantations and souvenir stalls where you can burn a few ringgit. But the quintessential Cameron experience is sipping a bronze-hued cuppa while looking out at the rippling carpet of tea plantations. 

Planning tip:  Boh Sungei Palas not only has emerald hillsides to gaze upon, it also has the most informative displays on tea-making. Alternatively, there's a splendid tea house overlooking the estate at Cameron Valley Tea House  and a further-flung option at  Boh Tea Garden , which offers guided tours. You're sure to find an experience that suits you (...to a T).

2. Climb up into the magical Batu Caves

Sheer limestone cliffs rise above you. Ahead stretches a staircase of 272 steps. And looking you smack in the eye is an imperious gilded statue, the Hindu god Lord Murugan.

Newcomers to Malaysia won't soon forget their first heady ascent to Batu Caves , nor the cheeky macaques that beset them on all sides. But this popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur (just 13km/8 miles, and easily done by train) also draws repeat visitors galore. Tourists, pilgrims and locals all clamor to experience this natural wonder and spiritual spectacle. 

This complex of limestone caverns has entrancing temples, each with dioramas showing mythical scenes. The central Temple Cave has been a Hindu shrine since 1890. After touring inside its two yawning chambers, take a side quest across a short bridge to the quieter Ramayana Cave , where dioramas illustrate the eponymous Sanskrit epic poem of duty and virtue.

Planning tip:  If the regular crowds don't daunt you, time your visit for the Thaipusam festival (late January or early February) when crowds of devotees descend upon the caves, some partaking in ritual piercings – it's an immersive and unforgettable event.

3. Eat at the best food markets in George Town, Penang

The capital of Penang island is awash in street art, festooned with British Raj–era buildings, and crammed with boutiques selling arts and crafts. But before hitting these George Town attractions, heed your grumbling stomach… The best things to do in Penang revolve around eating and drinking – and state capital George Town has the biggest banquet.

In a city rife with food markets, elegant cafes, and everything in between, the only dilemma is where to begin. Our dream menu features chicken curry at venerable Indian spot Hameediyah , slurping Hokkien mee (noodles) at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and following our nose to grilled satay skewers and spicy-sweet rojak salad at Anjung Gurney Night Market . Other must-try dishes are spicy, fishy Penang laksa, and char kway teow , rice noodles sizzled with huge prawns (some of the best are served at Kafe Heng Huat ).

Planning tip:  You'll want to save room for dessert (or two!). Gateaux are worth lingering over at China House , while glistening displays of kuih nyonya (colorful rice and coconut cakes) beg to be snapped up from the markets.

4. Snorkel or dive in the pristine Perhentian Islands

Culture, check. Food, check. Malaysia is also one of Asia's best honeymoon destinations, especially the Perhentian Islands , where gin-clear waters lap golden sand. 

But don't doze off in your sun lounger just yet. Pulau Perhentian is even more magical beneath the water. Snorkelers can spy on coral reefs within reach of the beach (try Teluk Pauh and Shark Point, both on the big island). Better yet, wriggle into a wetsuit and dive among green sea turtles, barracuda and colorful reef-dwellers like yellow boxfish. 

The Perhentians are a wonderfully calm (and comparatively cheap) place to take a PADI course before testing your skills among the local nurse sharks (they're harmless). More experienced divers can join excursions down to the MV Union Star . This sunken freighter is known as the "Sugar Wreck" for the cargo it transported before meeting its rusty end; today, the wreck swirls with stingrays and scorpionfish.

5. Scale the sublime summit of Mt Kinabalu

The highest mountain on Borneo, Gunung Kinabalu is Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Viewed from below, this cloud-spearing summit (4095m/13435ft) inspires awe: an outlying peak that rises far higher than its neighbors in the Crocker mountain range. But experienced from the summit, Mt Kinabalu is even more heavenly. 

Your penance for this heavenly vantage point? A thigh-burning ascent, some 8.7km (5.4 miles) each way. But every phase of the journey (split across two days) opens up a new natural wonder. The rough steps and stony pathways propel you ever higher above the treeline, past lunar rockfaces, high-alpine grasslands, and tangled carpets of ferns, rhododendrons and bamboo. At Panalaban (3272m/10,735ft), you'll bed down in a hostel for the night… or at least for a few fitful hours because you'll be out of bed early to reach the spiky granite summit at sunrise. 

Planning tip:  March to August is dry season for climbing. Limited permits to climb are issued each day, and you have to climb with a guide.

6. Ride a trishaw around historic Melaka

Trishaws: bone-rattling, traffic-dodging, three-wheeled form of transport. To some, they're a joyride; to others, a menace. But in Melaka , trishaws are out of this world. 

This historic port city is home to the blingiest trishaws around, adorned with Hello Kitty neons, the Frozen logo, and lighting rigs that could almost guide lost ships to shore. Lavished in flowers, tinsel and knock-off logos, more than 300 ostentatious trishaws ply their trade in Melaka, some offering history tours.

Aboard a trishaw, you might trundle past the Sultanate Palace and the spiky silhouette of the replica Flor de la Mar . You can spin through Dutch Square , which is lined with pinkish buildings like Christ Church . And as the sun dips below the horizon, your trishaw will begin to twinkle with fairy lights, lanterns and neon signs – it's hard to resist snapping a selfie.

7. Take a hike through Taman Negara

Reality check: for all Malaysia's natural splendor, the country faces serious environmental challenges, like encroachment of palm plantations on forested land. These threats make pockets of unspoiled nature like Taman Negara even more precious.

Literally " National Park ," Taman Negara is 4343 sq km (1676 sq miles) of primeval, protected land crossing Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu states. Its 130 million-year-old rainforest is among the oldest in the world (pipped to the title by Australia's Daintree), and along its trails, you're enclosed by the deafening soundtrack of jungle life. Fairy-sized katydids whirr through the forest, macaques chatter in the branches, and hornbills clack their beaks from above. If you're lucky, a gaur, an Asian bison with a distinctive bowl cut, will lumber into view. If you're incredibly lucky, you'll see a glimpse of a tiger, elephant or ultra-rare Malayan peacock-pheasant. 

Planning tip:  Whatever your fortunes spotting wildlife, don't miss walking the 45m-high (148ft-high) canopy walkway, taking a firefly boat ride or joining an after-dark hike to see things that go bump (or squeak, or scuttle) in the night.

8. Witness a flight of bats at eerie Mulu Caves

The island of Borneo is an every day Eden, where rainforests and reefs teem with wildlife. Amid this natural abundance, it's challenging to zoom in on one particular spectacle, but Gunung Mulu still rises to the top. 

At this national park, toothy limestone pinnacles add drama to a landscape of 60 million-year-old rainforests, twisting streams and deep grottoes. The most momentous experience is seeing the skies blacken with bats pouring out of the mouth of Deer Cave . Up to three million bats hang around in these dank chambers, and their mid-air acrobatics are to flummox hawks waiting for a mammalian mouthful.

Planning tip:  Tours take you inside Deer Cave and amid the spiraling stalactites of nearby Lang Cave, before you step outside to watch the aerial spectacle from around 5pm.

9. Go off-grid on a private jungle island in Royal Belum State Park

What does solitude even mean in the era of smartphones? Find out by going cold turkey on a private island in Royal Belum State Park , way up north in Peninsular Malaysia's Belum-Temenggor Rainforest.

Taking the longboat to the resort, your vibrating phone will fall into a slumber. To replace the constant overstimulus, dive off the island jetty for a swim, sleep in an A-frame tent, and awake to watch for all 10 species of hornbills swooping overhead. You can take guided hikes through the jungle in search of whopping great rafflesia blooms, and watch out for tell-tale elephant footprints in the mud. 

10. Join a cooking class in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is a confluence of cuisines. There are thriving scenes for Malay, Peranakan, Indian and Chinese food, always with distinctly local and regional twists; try Penang laksa , Ipoh chicken beansprouts, and every variety of cendol (an icy, coconut milk refresher) you can find. Fading colonial influences, like Dutch, British and Portuguese, also lend their recipes to this steaming smorgasbord.

Some flavors will forever be a twinkle in the chef's eye, but you can take a few recipes home by joining a cooking class. Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to go, offering myriad options where skilled chefs will guide you through recipes like prawn fritters, nasi lemak (coconut rice with all the trimmings) and famous beef rendang .

Planning tip:  LaZat Malaysian Home Cooking has been around since 2007, and offers a changing menu that spans classic rice noodle dish char kway teow , fragrant kapitan chicken and sago pudding. 

11. Dive with turtles at Sipadan Island

Malaysia boasts a few marine paradises, but Sipadan is uncommonly remote and wild. The island is an extinct volcanic cone where coral reefs flourish, and palm trees provide scant shade on bone-white beaches. These waters are a catwalk of superstars: head out on a dive and spot big-eye trevallies, hammerhead sharks and two species of turtle – green and hawksbill. They're so abundant that it's not unusual to see a dozen turtles on a single dive!

Planning tip:  The journey to Sipadan takes effort: after landing on Malaysian Borneo, you'll either connect to Tawau or bus onwards to Semporna , from where you can day trip to the island (or stay elsewhere on the archipelago; Sipadan itself doesn't allow overnight stays).

12. Look for bearded pigs in Bako National Park

Sarawak's teeming Bako National Park checks off much of the Bornean wildlife ticklist: dense jungle, mischievous monkeys, slinky water monitors and orchids peeping from the ground. More than 190 bird species flit, soar and chatter through Bako, the oldest national park in Sarawak.

So, what makes it distinctive? Firstly, the sea stacks that lend it a dramatic silhouette, sculpted by the action of water (admire them from Pandan Kecil beach). And secondly, the prospect of spotting bearded pigs, whose fuzzy bodies and shaggy snouts make for a gruff and adorable encounter. 

Planning tip:  Staying overnight is the best way to maximize chances of a sighting. Take a night walk with an experienced guide who will point the way. 

13. Meet magnificent apes in Sepilok, Borneo 

We share approximately 97% of our DNA with orangutans, so why not pay these long-lost relatives a visit? Make Sepilok your base: at the 43 sq km (17 sq mile)  Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre , you can watch shaggy apes swing into view. The center pairs young primates with older partners to school them in the ways of the jungle before release. Next, head to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary , less than half an hour's drive away. Listen for the thundering sound as they race across the wooden boardwalk at feeding time. Their squishy noses and pot bellies have a strange dignity… so like us humans! 

Add a third mammalian encounter by visiting Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre , which rescues members of Southeast Asia's smallest bear family. There are 45 of these honey-guzzling cuties on site.

14. Get a bird's eye view on Langkawi Island

Langkawi is a true holiday island, with blonde beaches and rugged jungles. The best way to experience its splendor? Get up high.

Ride the SkyCab up to Gunung Machinchang (713m/2339ft), where engineering marvel Langkawi Sky Bridge stands; or drive up to admire views from 881m (2890ft) Gunung Raya. Alternatively, zip-lining helps you feel the wind in your hair and gives you a shot of adrenaline as you fly above the geopark's canopy, startling a few hornbills along the way.

15. Marvel at a spectacular mosque in Kuala Kangsar

Malaysia is studded with magnificent mosques, from Mogul-era marvels to functional modern constructions, but one masjid steals the show for its sheer grandeur: Masjid Ubudiah in the rocky region of Perak. Designed by famed architect AB Hubback, the mosque's whopping gold domes and Italian marble are a visual feast. It's not the only showpiece in town, either: take a spin around Muzium Diraja Kuala Kangsar and the Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah for an extra dose of architectural opulence.  

This article was first published Feb 4, 2022 and updated Jan 22, 2024.

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12 Hidden Gems For Relaxing Getaways Near Kuala Lumpur

June 12, 2018 By Team CurrenSeek No comments yet

Cover Image via https://pluslifehealth.com.au

After a long and tiring work week, it’s normal to crave for a relaxing weekend getaway or short escape away from KL city, but the cost of flight tickets and accommodations can break the bank easily. The solution? A relaxing budget staycation less than 2 hours away from Kuala Lumpur, so not only do you get to save money, you also don’t have to travel far!

Having searched for a little weekend solace ourselves, we’ve curated 12-weekend getaway ideas that are not only awesome retreats but lesser-known hidden gems that aren’t teeming with heavy commercial tourist crowds, plus make perfect private romantic getaways too!

Without further ado, here are 12 weekend getaway from KL that are perfect for your short escape for your consideration:

Adeline Villa & Rest House at Gopeng, Perak

If you’re a nature lover who’s looking for an adventure, Adeline Villa is the perfect place for you! Situated in the middle of a rainforest, not only can you enjoy the tranquillity of nature, but there are also plenty of outdoor activities to be done! From water rafting to caving, there are plenty of options for both solo and group travellers, especially if you’re a company looking to host team-building activities! Psst, the food served at the villa has had raving reviews from visitors on TripAdvisor with some even claiming it’s worth to visit the resort just for the food.

Note: Bring your own towels and toiletries.

Address: 13302, Mukim Kampung Geruntum, 31600 Gopeng, Perak, Malaysia Open in Google Maps Activities: Water rafting, kayaking, jungle trekking, and caving Prices: Start from RM150 per pax, including breakfast, lunch and dinner. Packages that include 3 types of activities are also available, starting from RM375!

Social media channels: Website   Facebook   Instagram  

Image via   and  via 

The Dusun at Seremban, Negeri Sembilan

Choose from 5 uniquely themed houses, from the Berembun House (a Malay-style house on stilts) to the Sora House (a modern villa). Best of all, The Dusun comes with an infinity pool, and the view overlooking the jungle is nothing short of amazing. Visitors are also able to hold their own barbeque parties at the resort, as well as participate in jungle trekking, photography workshops, and a bird discovery walk. If you’re looking to venture out, you can take half-day trips to an Ostrich farm, Sri Menanti Museum, and the local wet market or a day trip to Malacca!

Address: 3437, Kampung Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia Open in Google Maps Activities: Swimming, jungle trekking, photography, bird watching, massage Prices: Start from 400 RM per night

Social media channels: Website   Facebook   Instagram

Image via  | via   and  via 

Awanmulan at Kampung Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan

This is a strictly by reservation-only resort that consists of a small collection of homes located close to nature. You’ll find 2 swimming pools here: one offers a tranquil view of the jungle and another a breathtaking view of the sunset. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway from the trappings of modern living, this is it.

Address: Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia Open in Google Maps Activities: Swimming Prices: Start from RM400 per night

Social media channels: Website   Facebook

Enderong Resort at Tanarimba, Janda Baik in Pahang

For larger group getaways such as company team-building trips, Endarong is the perfect choice, thanks to the availability of an annex hall to host your functions! Located next to a nature trail, you can refresh yourself with a morning walk to the forest nearby, next to the mountain stream the highland nature retreat is named after: Sungei Enderong. However, if you prefer a more intense workout, Enderong Resort offers guided jungle trekking tours, which is an excellent way to experience nature at its finest! Want to channel your inner Legolas or Katniss Everdeen? The resort also lets you participate in archery, and users can take part in a mini tournament to see who is the best archer!

Address: Persiaran Enderong off Jalan Tanarimba Pine, Tanarimba Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia Open in Google Maps Activities: Archery, nature walks, jungle trekking, nature discovery Prices: Start from RM370 per night (including breakfast)

With so many hidden gems near Kuala Lumpur, you’d be wrong not to take advantage of them and book yourself a relaxing staycation today!

Eight Acres at Raub, Pahang

Eight Acres offer 5 types of housings, and each housing is designed to accommodate different volumes of guests, ranging from groups of 5 to 28 people. The resort has enough space for guests to participate in high-intensity activities, such as ATV riding! Stay a night and take a 4WD (four-wheel drive) to Lata Berembun Waterfall – one of the most famous tourist spots located in Pahang!a At Eight Acres, you can also try your hand at picking fresh fruits and vegetables that are specially grown in their garden – eating fruits and vegetables that you’ve picked yourself is definitely much more satisfying. Animal lovers, there are also animals roaming around freely on the resort, such as ducks and even a pony!

FOR DURIAN LOVERS: There are many durian trees around the resort, so visit the resort during the durian season and you might get a chance to sample them for free!

Address: Lot 7822, Mukim Gali, Off Jalan Sungai Klau Raub, Pahang Open in Google Maps Activities: ATV, 4WD to waterfall, animal feeding, picking fruits and vegetables Prices: Subject to dates

Cabinz Ecottage Retreat at Seremban, Negeri Seremban

If you’re looking for a place with a view, Cabinz Ecottage Retreat should be on your list. In addition to spectacular views of nature, the retreat also lets you enjoy unobstructed views of the sunset in the evening and stars in the night from their infinity pool, as their villas are located at the top of the hill, 350 metres above sea level. Additionally, the resort is located near a jungle and 4 major waterfalls (one of which is Jeram Toi Waterfalls), with the latter located only 30 minutes away from the resort. You can arrange to have the indigenous tribesman from a nearby village to guide you to either the jungle or the waterfalls, for a fee. The jungle trekking trip will take you deep into the forest and to the Batang Penar River, which has rejuvenating rock pools and small waterfalls. If outdoor activities are not your thing, stay at the resort and host barbeque sessions at one of 2 areas: at Sunset Stadium or near the infinity pool. Enjoy the magnificent views as you wait for your food to be cooked – Sunset Stadium gets its name from its location that oversees the beautiful and radiant sunset over the mountains.

TIP: Remember to always check their Facebook first before booking, as they have special packages from time to time!

Address: 86, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Open in Google Maps Activities: Swimming, hiking to the waterfalls, barbequing, bird watching Prices: Start from RM495 per night

Danau Daun Chalets at Janda Baik, Pahang

You can’t get any closer to nature than in Danau Daun Chalets . Built on a piece of land riddled with swap, trees and tropical biodiversity, only 4 chalets are open to the public in order to maintain the quiet and isolated nature of the well, nature retreat. It’s a perfect place for families and semi-large groups of friends, with Danau Daun III boasting its own private pool. There is also a barbeque pit for you to have your own barbeque sessions, but if you’d rather have your food cooked by professionals, there is also a jungle themed café located within the premises that offers a variety of Southeast Asian dishes and coffee-based drinks.

Address: Lot 5347, Kg. Sum-Sum Hilir, Malaysia, Kampung Janda Baik, 28750, Pahang, Malaysia Open in Google Maps Activities: Swimming, barbeque

Prices: Start from RM260 per night

8. Selepas Hujan at Seremban, Negeri Sembilan

Selepas Hujan is located right at the doorstep of Berembun Virgin Forest Reserve, where there are over 4000 acres of undisturbed land. These lands have been preserved since Colonial Times, which adds an air of mystique to the tranquillity that you will no doubt experience during your stay. Enjoy stunning views of nature from the pool or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a trek out to a “hidden” waterfall do some bird watching! Selepas Hujan is the perfect place for people who are seeking peace – away from the bustling city life.

Address: Lot 3154 Pantai Hill Orchard Resort, Jalan Kampung Pantai, Pantai, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia Open in Google Maps Activities: Swimming, hiking to a waterfall, jungle trekking, bird watching Prices: Their prices are subject to seasons (high and low), so it’s recommended that you enquire first via their website

Sekeping Serendah, Rawang, Selangor

About an hour drive north of Kuala Lumpur near the sleepy one street town of Serendah, Sekeping Serendah is a surprisingly beautiful natural private retreat that’s clearly built to complement the land and not the other way around! Transparent, open sheds and shower rooms celebrate the beauty of communing with the natural tropical rainforest environment surrounding you. The modern minimalistic sheds are kept quite basic and spartan so the focus stays on nature… the glorious sights, sounds, smells, everything! Choose from 10 sheds set within 5 acres of tropical rainforest for anything from group retreats to a small family or couple getaways.

Address: Chalet, Jalan Ipoh, Kg Orang Asli, Serendah, Rawang, Selangor, Malaysia 48200 | Open in Google Maps Activities: Swimming, jungle trekking, photography, bird watching, fishing, Orang Asli villages nearby, golfing (Sekeping golf course 10 minutes drive away). Prices: Start from RM300 per night Website & Social Media Channels: Website | Facebook

Tadom Hill Resorts, Banting, Selangor

Less that an hour’s drive away from KL’s stifling heat lies the cool promise of quaint bamboo hut living amid 40 acres of limestone hills, lakes and trees! Here, you can unwind in a hammock, swim, and bamboo raft in an enchanting spring water emerald lake, among a host of other water, land and nature adventure activities. Tadom Hill Resorts shares this heavenly piece of paradise with the Orang Asli Temuan of Kampung Bukit Tadom, and its unique accommodation features finely crafted, rustic bamboo furnishing and roofs thatched with nipah palm leaves for a truly cooling, nature-inspired staycation.

Address: Kampung Labohan Dagang, 42700 Banting, Selangor | Open In Google Maps Activities : DIving, Bamboo Rafting, Swimming, ATV, Abseiling, Flying Fox, Hill Walk, Kampung Walk, Bamboo Picnic, Treehouse, Sports activities, etc. Prices: Start from RM61 per night Website & Social Media Channels: Website | Facebook

Farm Ville Cafe Homestay AKA Sekinchan Container Hotel

Famous for its wide open seas of golden paddy fields, Sekinchan boasts a peculiar bright red attraction that sticks out like an industrial anomaly amid the vast greenery of paddy trees… It’s more popularly known as the Sekinchan Container Hotel and for good reason: Farm Ville Cafe Homestay is made out of converted metal boxes that were once used to transport goods! Now the containers house weary travellers looking for a luxurious breakaway in full view of the famous Sekinchan paddy fields. Besides paddy, visitors to Sekinchan can explore many other local attractions within 5 minutes driving distance and restaurants offering tasty seafood at bargain prices in the coastal town.

Address: 11304, Jalan Tepi Sawah, Sekinchan, 45400 Sekinchan, Selangor | Open In Google Maps Activities: Paddy Factory, Sunset Watching at Pantai Redang, 3D Art Gallery, Nan Tian Temple, Bicycling, Buggy Traveling or Sunrise Watching at Paddy Fields, La Famillia Orchard, Ah Ma House, Fisherman’s Wharf, Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Firefly Park, Eagle Watching, Melawati Hill, Fresh Seafood and Local Food Hunting. Prices: Start from 98 per night Website & Social Media Channels: Website | Facebook

Rockbund Fishing Village, Teluk Meroh, Perak

If the sea calls out to you, then this remarkably secluded hidden gem of Marina Islands is a must visit! Rockbund consists of 21 cute colourful cabins fronting a mesmerizing coastal sea view that alters colour with every breathtakingly beautiful new sunrise and sunset. Rockbund Fishing Village is more than just a fishing chalet of course, as visitors can enjoy island hopping or snorkeling, cruising, BBQ, seafood dining and other seaside activities along the beautiful laidback coast of Teluk Meroh, Perak.

Address: Marina Island KM1, Teluk Muroh, 32200 Lumut, Perak | Open In Google Maps Prices: Start from RM283 per night Website & Social Media Channels: Website | Facebook

Do let us in, on places and weekend gateways near Kuala Lumpur you think, we’ve missed in the comment box below.

12 HIDDEN GEMS FOR RELAXING GETAWAYS NEAR KUALA LUMPUR! https://t.co/5e8fmTUpa1 #MalaysiaTrulyAsia #TourismMalaysia #DekatJe pic.twitter.com/TXbPElkSAD — Tourism Malaysia (@TourismMalaysia) August 26, 2018

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Where to go in Malaysia for a short trip: KL Getaways

Looking for budget weekend getaways in Malaysia that can be taken from KL? This guide will show you exactly where to go in Malaysia for a short trip!

Malaysia is an incredibly diverse country with so much to offer to any type of traveler. While Peninsular Malaysia is known for its bustling cities, historical towns and pristine beaches, Malaysia Borneo is known for its diverse wildlife, lush rainforest and spectacular mountain peaks. 

Although I’ve traveled to Malaysia on multiple occasions, I still have a lot more to explore. That’s why I’ve asked some of the best travel bloggers to share their top recommendations for the best places to visit in Malaysia for a short trip. 

So here’s a list of 20 weekend getaways in Malaysia (that can easily be taken from Kuala Lumpur) to help you plan a short but relaxing vacation in Malaysia! 

Check out these other Malaysia travel guides:

• How to spend 4-12 days in Singapore and Malaysia?
• Ultimate 2-week Malaysia itinerary on a budget

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Table of Contents

Getting around Malaysia 

Being well connected with other Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Thailand, traveling to and within Malaysia is very cheap and easy. 

I recommend using either Easybook or  12go.asia  to book your transportation so you can easily compare the price of train and bus tickets and hence get the best deal. 

Alternatively, if you don’t want to spend hours on the bus or train during your short Malaysia getaway, AirAsia offers very cheap flights and usually has some pretty awesome deals if you book well in advance. 

Another option is to book a private transfer from KL to any destination in Malaysia.

Weekend Getaways in Peninsular Malaysia

Penang .

Penang Island is located in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia. With a diverse cultural heritage that can be seen through its temples and mosques, historical buildings, interactive street art and world-class street food, Penang, also known as the food capital of Malaysia, is the perfect place to spend the weekend in Malaysia for foodies and history buff. 

The cheapest way to get to Penang  is by bus. There are also direct flights available from Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Singapore. The best time to visit Penang is between December and April. 

One of the top things to do in Penang is to go on a self-guided street art tour. The city of Georgetown is covered with an abundance of quirky and interactive murals that make for really fun photo backdrops!  

You can also take a tour of the Blue Mansion , visit Penang Hill ,  Penang Habitat , Kek Lok Si Temple, 3D Trick Art Museum or spend the evening on Chulia Street to feast on some tasty Malaysian food. 

Other   things to do include taking a dip in Batu Ferringhi beach, hiking Penang National Park or visiting the Botanical Gardens. 

Where to stay in Penang : The  Blue Mansion  is perfect for those who want to stay in a traditional Peranakan home. The hotel is located in the heart of Georgetown and includes free breakfast. 

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Related post: How to spend 3 days in Georgetown Penang?

Melaka 

If you’re looking for a short Malaysia getaway from Kuala Lumpur that’s rich in history and culture, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Melaka (also spelled Malacca) is right up your alley! 

Melaka, sometimes referred to as the Amsterdam of Asia, is famous for its colonial architecture with Dutch, Portuguese and British influences, colorful river canals, a majestic floating mosque and night markets.

Although most people visit  Melaka as a day trip , there’s quite a lot to do to fill in a weekend, plus you can easily take the bus from KL to Malacca . Explore the Dutch Square to see all the major attractions such as the Christ Church, Saint Paul’s Hill, Stadthuys and A’Famosa Fort.  

You can also take a river cruise , hunt for street art in Melaka , visit the Maritime Naval Museum, take in the view from The Shore Sky Tower , watch the sunset at the Melaka Straits Mosque, have an adventure-filled day at the Skytrex Adventure and more! 

To sample some of the tastiest local dishes, make sure to visit the famous  Jonker Street night market which takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A GUIDED MELAKA DAY TOUR FROM KL

Where to stay in Melaka : If you want to stay in a quiet neighborhood not too far from the main attractions,  Hotel Arissa  is perfect for you. They provide clean and comfy rooms with a large double bed and a private bathroom. 

Related post: 15 awesome things you must do in Melaka

Situated in the state of Perak, Ipoh is one of the most underrated getaways in Malaysia! While exploring Ipoh, you’ll come across colorful and interactive murals, cute alleyways and beautiful cave temples etched into the limestone cliffs. 

You can easily  get to Ipoh from KL  or other major cities in Malaysia by either bus or train. For the best weather condition, plan your visit between December and April but avoid Chinese New Year if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic on your way to Ipoh! 

Start your trip by heading to Mural’s Art Lane which is covered with dozens of colorful street art before making your way to the Old Town, the center of all Ipoh attractions . 

In the Old Town, you’ll find Concubine Lane, a little alley flanked by cute cafes and shops selling souvenirs, clothes and delicious food.  Market Lane is also not to be missed with its colorful hanging umbrellas and interactive murals. 

If you have time, make sure to visit at least one cave temple. There are over 30 of them dotting every corner of Ipoh, some providing the most scenic views. Three of my favorite temples are Perak Tong, Kek Lok Tong and Sam Poh Tong. 

Finally, you can’t say you’ve been to Ipoh without sampling some delicious egg tarts accompanied by a cup of Ipoh white coffee! Follow the locals to either Nam Heong White Coffee or Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong and you’ll be in for a treat! 

Where to stay in Ipoh : If you want to stay in the Old Town, I recommend Dé Cafe & Rest House . Alternatively,  Grayhaus Soho Ipoh  in the New Town offers budget single or double rooms, inclusive of breakfast. 

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Related post: 14+ best things to do in Ipoh in 3 days

Kuala Lumpur 

Featuring the world’s tallest twin towers, bustling neighborhoods, impressive temples and mosques and an omnipresent food scene, Kuala Lumpur or KL is the perfect place to visit for a short vacation in Malaysia. 

The city is found about 50 minutes from the airport and can be reached by bus, train or Grab taxi.  

The starting point for exploring Kuala Lumpur is Bukit Bintang  where you can do some cheap shopping and eat to your heart’s content at the famous Jalan Alor Night Market. 

From Bukit Bintang, take the air-conditioned walkway that leads to the Petronas Twin Towers. I recommend visiting at night to see the towers light up just in time for the lake symphony show. 

You can also visit the KL Tower and KL Forest Eco Park (one of KL’s top Instagram spots ) where you can walk along a canopy bridge surrounded by the only remaining rainforest in KL city center. Aquaria KLCC , Chinatown KL , Little India and the  Batu Caves  are also not to be missed on any Kuala Lumpur itinerary as well as a visit to the impressive Thean Hou Temple. 

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur : There are lots of options for infinity pool hotels in KL but if you’re on a tight budget, I recommend Gold 3 Boutique Hotel . It features stylish and modern rooms and is a cheap place to stay in Bukit Bintang. 

Related post: Top things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 48 hours

Sekinchan 

Anyone visiting Malaysia is likely to stop by Kuala Lumpur. While the city is amazing, it can feel too busy for some. Luckily for visitors looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in Malaysia, there’s the small fishing village of  Sekinchan , located only two hours away. 

Sekinchan is considered the hidden gem of Malaysia. It wasn’t until recently that it started to receive an influx of tourists due to the popular TVB drama “Outbound Love”.  

What’s so special about this peaceful fishing village is the rice fields that lie on its perimeter. Acres of stunning and lush rice fields cover the eastern outskirts of town, stretching beyond the eye’s reach. When admiring these rice paddies, an unknowing traveler might even think that he or she is in Bali ! 

Just remember to visit when the rice paddies are in full bloom, or else you might not see anything at all. March to May and September to November are considered the best time to visit. 

Many visitors do a  Sekinchan day trip , enjoying the rice paddies during the day, relaxing on the Redang beach at sunset, and enjoying some fresh seafood before heading home. However, I would advise staying for a whole weekend to relax and enjoy some of the attractions of the neighboring town such as the  fireflies tour  and  Sky Mirror  in Kuala Selangor.

Where to stay in Sekinchan : If you’re spending the weekend in Sekinchan, make sure to book a stay at  Villa Chee for the best rice field view! 

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Recommended by Sean from Living Out Lau 

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is the perfect place to escape for a couple of days and enjoy some time in the mountains. It’s well known for its endless beautiful tea fields that cover the rolling hills and valleys.  

The local busses are a cheap and easy way to get to Cameron Highlands  and run regularly from major hubs such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang. 

You can visit all year round but January and February are the months with the least rainfall, so you may want to visit then. The best thing to do in  Cameron Highlands  is to explore the local tea fields.  

There are several hikes in the area or you can visit some of the tea plantations. BOH Plantation  is one of the most popular due to the beautiful scenery surrounding the tasting room. 

The region is also known for growing lavender, strawberries and other fresh produce with lots of markets and shops selling local goods, making it the perfect place to go for a short trip in Malaysia!

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands : A great option for those staying on a budget is The Cave Guesthouse which is a 10-minute walk from the town center. 

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Recommended by Luke from The Coastal Campaign 

Port Dickson

Port Dickson is probably one of the best weekend getaway destinations due to its close proximity to cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. It’s also a region that’s well-known for its picturesque beaches, quaint colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural attractions. 

Within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, most tourists and locals get to Port Dickson by private transport . However, public transportation from Singapore is more straightforward with the availability of direct coaches such as the Golden Coach Express or KKKL Express. It’s also easy to arrange a transfer from Kuala Lumpur airport . 

January and February are the best months to  visit Port Dickson if you want to avoid the wet season. As this is the peak season, it’s best to visit in early March and perhaps to take note of the auspicious dates of the Lunar New Year as this is when locals from Singapore, Malaysia and other neighboring Asian countries would be on holiday. 

Aside from lying on one of the beaches across Port Dickson’s 18-km coastline, one of the best things to do is to pay a visit to the oldest lighthouse in Tanjung Tuan and use this location as a starting point for a hike through a verdant jungle trail. Once you’ve reached the peak, do not turn back. Instead, follow the descending trail that leads you to a secret bay with granite formations amid gleaming blue waters. 

Other things to do in Port Dickson include taking a boat tour and visiting the Alive 3D Art Gallery .

Where to stay in Port Dickson : Port Dickson has a variety of accommodations that suit all types of travelers. For those looking for a luxurious break, the Grand Lexis Dickson with its sea chalets and swimming pools is highly recommended. A cheaper option would be the Glory Beach Resort with its serviced apartments, pool, and private beach. 

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Recommended by Karolina  Klesta  from Lazy Travel Blog.  

Johor Bahru  

Johor Bahru is located in the southernmost point of Malaysia – just on the border with Singapore and is great for a short getaway in Malaysia with kids.

The city has excellent shopping and restaurants and everything is much less expensive compared with Singapore . 

If you’re traveling as a family, Johor Bahru is the perfect place! Your kids will be spoiled for choice of fun – LEGOLAND Malaysia  or Hello Kitty Town. We spent the whole day in LEGOLAND enjoying the rides and other activities, and guess what was the best – no queues! You can fully enjoy the rides instead of waiting for them.

If this isn’t enough, you can always go from  Johor Bahru to Singapore , the trip takes max 45 minutes (by local bus), and Singapore has everything you can imagine! 

Where to stay in Johor Bahru : If you travel as a family to Johor Bahru, you should stay in the LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel . Alternatively, if you’re traveling as a couple, the brand-new Z Hotel is a great choice! It’s conveniently located in the heart of Johor Bahru close to shopping malls and restaurants with mouthwatering food – especially at “Flowers in the Window” restaurant. 

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Recommended by Ania from The Travelling Twins 

Island Getaways in Malaysia

Langkawi .

Located off the west coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a stunning archipelago of 104 islands with waterfalls, gorgeous white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and lush rainforest. 

Langkawi is a great destination all year round but the best time to visit is between November and March during the dry season when the days are beautifully sunny.  

You can reach Langkawi either by air or by ferry – there are  direct flights from Kuala Lumpur , Singapore and Penang, or you can reach Langkawi by ferry from Penang Island or from Kuala Perlis on the mainland.  

There are heaps of fun  things to do on Langkawi’s main island  and it’s perfect for a short Malaysia getaway. Take a ride on one of the world’s steepest cable cars to get amazing panoramic views of the islands from the  magnificent Skybridge . After you’re done, make your way to Seven Wells Waterfall which is found within walking distance of the Skybridge or head over to Skytrek Adventure Langkawi for an adventure-filled day. 

Related post: Guide to visiting the Seven Wells Waterfalls

The  Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a beautiful UNESCO heritage site and home to mangroves, macaque monkeys and eagles. 

If you like water sports, head to one of Langkawi’s many beaches to go parasailing or jet boating or jump on an  island hopping tour  to enjoy some diving or snorkeling. The island is also duty-free and there are lots of shopping centers selling bargain clothing and alcohol. 

Where to stay in Langkawi : There are accommodation options to suit all budgets here. Check out the mid-range priced Berjaya Resort – spacious chalets situated on the beach on the edge of the rainforest with restaurants, bars and an outdoor pool. For a more budget option, there’s  Chenang Inn  found only a few minutes from Cenang beach. 

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Recommended by Caroline from CK Travels

Related post: What to do in Langkawi for 3 days?

Tioman Island 

Just off the southeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia lies the beautiful island Tioman, ideal for a short vacation in Malaysia! This wonderful speck in the ocean offers amazing beaches, tropical forests and laidback villages.  

Note that Tioman can only be visited between March and October, the island is closed off to tourists during monsoon season (November to February).  

Getting to Tioman invariably involves a boat trip as there’s no airport (anymore) on the island. There are two jumping-off points for Tioman Island: Mersing and Tanjung Gemok. Ferry departures depend on the tide and weather conditions.  

Tioman is a great place for scuba diving as well as snorkeling as the ocean around it is marked as a marine reserve. It’s an excellent place to get your PADI as dive prices are very reasonable and you’ll see plenty of colorful fish and corals while learning how to dive.  

Other things to do in Tioman include relaxing on one of the pretty beaches, hiking through the jungle and watching the monitor lizards and monkeys roam around the tiny towns.  

Where to stay in Tioman : A good place to stay in Salang (my favorite village on Tioman) is Ella’s Place, a simple but lovely budget accommodation on the north side of town. There are small bungalows with fan or aircon, no hot water but with the tropical Tioman temperatures this isn’t really necessary.

Recommended by Lotte Eschbach from Phenomenal Globe.  

Redang Island 

Redang Island is a gorgeous destination located off the east coast of Malaysia near Kuala Terengganu.  It’s located in a protected marine park and is perfect for people wanting to explore nature with its jungle-filled interior, fantastic coastline and coral surrounded exterior. 

There’s no bridge to Redang and only charter flights operate here which means you need to catch a ferry across from Kuala Terengganu or  Merang . Ferries are quick and easy and this is part of the fun of visiting Redang. Once on the island, you’ll generally get around by foot, kayak or boat since there aren’t many roads. 

Redang has two seasons – dry and monsoon. You should avoid the monsoon season as ferry rides to the island stop and the island basically shuts down. For this reason, visit Redang from late March to October. 

Most of Redang’s things to do center around nature. You can dive, snorkel, kayak, swim, explore the island by boat or trek across, play volleyball and other land and water sports.  

During the turtle hatching season from April to October, you can even release baby turtles. Of course, you can also relax on one of the gorgeous beaches. 

Where to stay in Redang : Note that Redang isn’t a budget destination and it’ll cost you more than the mainland. A good option for bargain seekers is  Redang De’ Rimba  as long as you don’t mind not having direct beach access. You can find more information about visiting Redang  here .

Recommended by Sharon from Dive Into Malaysia

Pangkor Island 

If you’re wondering where to go in Malaysia for a short trip, make sure to visit Pangkor Island, Malaysia’s little local paradise. It’s the ideal island getaway since it’s situated only a few hours from Kuala Lumpur. Yet it’s still very overlooked by tourists. Pangkor Island is for those who seek quiet beach life and fun scooter adventures. 

It’s easy to get to Pangkor – from Kuala Lumpur, it’s a 4-hour bus ride to Lumut  where the ferry leaves for the island every half hour. You can visit Pangkor Island all year round, but you might want to steer clear of the rainy season from October to December. The island is also very popular among local tourists, so avoid the busy holiday season. 

The west side of the island has beautiful beaches and often accommodates the few tourists who visit, whereas the right side has more of a local feel. 

There are many things to do on Pangkor Island apart from relaxing on the beach. You can rent a kayak, go jungle trekking, visit the local fishermen’s village or simply go explore on a scooter. On the island, you can find a Hindu temple, a Chinese temple, and a floating mosque which are worth a visit.  

Where to stay on Pangkor Island : Pangkor Waterfall Beach Resort is a budget-friendly option for those who want to stay close to Coral Beach, good restaurants and wildlife. 

Recommended by Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers  

Perhentian Islands 

The Perhentian Islands are located on the quiet east coast of Malaysia. Perfect for a short vacation in Malaysia, the islands are famous as a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving .

The Perhentian Islands are split into two inhabited islands known as  Perhentian Besar  (the big island) and Perhentian Kecil (the small island). Both offer different vantage points to explore the abundant marine and wildlife in the region.  

For travel to and from the islands, it’s easy to find boats leaving from Besut  and make sure to book in advance as accommodation is limited and somewhat exclusive on the island. It’s also best to visit during the dry season (April to September). 

One of the best spots has to be Teluk Pauh Beach where the coral reefs run right up to the sands, with ridiculously diverse marine life! Just a short swim out, you’ll find “turtle point” which is a famous snorkeling spot in Malaysia to swim with sea turtles.  

The beaches as well are pristine with golden sand, the interiors of the island are dense with forest and the wildlife, such as silvered leaf-langurs, mingle on the shores.  

Where to stay on Perhentian Islands : A great place to stay is the  Perhentian Islands Resort on Teluk Pauh Beach which has its own jetty for arrivals from the mainland.  

Recommended by Allan from Live Less Ordinary 

Kapas Island 

Kapas Island is one of the best places you could visit for a weekend in Malaysia. It’s a stunning island located off the east coast and due to its hidden nature, it remains empty most of the year. Because of this, the coral reefs remain intact unlike many contrasting locations in Malaysia such as the Perhentian Islands. 

Kapas Island is best visited from March to October as storms can hit in the other months. It’s a short flight or 7-hour bus ride into  Kuala Terengganu from Kuala Lumpur . Afterward, take a taxi to Marang Jetty and a 15-minute boat journey to the island itself. Alternatively, buses are available in Kuala Terengganu from all major locations in Malaysia. 

One of the best things to do is to take a snorkel and swim on the colorful reefs. Alternatively, boat tours are available to further locations. If you’d prefer to dive, it’s very cheap costing less than US$ 300 for your PADI open water. If you prefer dry land, there’s a hike through the jungle to the beaches on the opposite side of the island. 

Where to stay on Kapas Island : There are many beautiful places to stay, but I have to recommend Qimi’s Chalet. It has a private beach where it hosts candlelit barbeque dinners in the evening. The rooms are like treehouses and have a rustic feel. But if you prefer something more modern, do consider Turtle Valley Resort. 

By Hannah from Hannah’s Happy Adventures  

Rawa Island 

Rawa Island, translated in the local dialect as ‘white doves’ is the very definition of peace. This picture-perfect tropical island resort within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park off the east coast of Malaysia is perfect for a short relaxing getaway.  

The white sand, verdant groves and warm, clear waters feel like a world away from the stress of modern life. And yet this idyllic haven is just a 30-minute speedboat ride from Mersing in the province of Johor. Rawa Island is hugely appealing between February and October for a family break or romantic paradise getaway.  

Rawa’s main attraction is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, to kick back and unwind on its soft-sand beaches under the never-ending sun. For those rare moments of activity, take a short stroll along its coastal walkways or snorkel its coral reef.  

If this isn’t enough, there’s always the resort spa for indulgent pampering as you gaze across the calming ocean beyond.  

At the end of each day, Rawa will reward you not only with a fabulous feast from the restaurants but also a splendid sunset. Ideal to enjoy with a glass or two of something cold and refreshing, Rawa will no doubt leave many wonderful memories.

Recommended by Paul from The Two That Do 

Short Getaways in Malaysia Borneo

Kuching .

An easy getaway from Kuala Lumpur is Kuching, one of the most charming and action-packed towns in Sarawak and a perfect place to start a  Borneo itinerary . 

The only feasible way is  flying from Kuala Lumpur  or Penang with the cheap AirAsia flights. You can come to Kuching pretty much any time of the year, but avoid the period between November and February when the rainy seasons make the task of exploring the surrounding jungles a wet mess. Also, in July it’s the time for the iconic Rainforest World Music Festival — this is a fantastic music event, but also a time when Kuching is packed, and accommodation prices skyrocket. 

Kuching itself has plenty of charming lanes packed with bars and a beautiful waterfront set next to the Sarawak River. Take the bridge across to Fort Margherita, where an excellent gallery resumes the history of the Brookes, the White Rajahs of Sarawak.

In half an hour from Kuching is Semenggoh’s Orangutan sanctuary , a must-visit place to get close and personal with one of the world’s most endangered primates. 

There are also many national parks around Kuching: Bako National Park , set on a rugged promontory is ideal for a 2 days/1 night trip to properly explore its many hiking trails.  

If you come at the right time, the Gunung Gading National Park near Lundu is a perfect place to spot Rafflesia, the world’s biggest (and foulest-smelling) flower. If you still have time, a trip to Mount Santubong or the endlessly empty beaches of Tanjung Datu National Park will bring you off the grid in an already pretty offbeat Malaysian destination. 

Recommended by Marco Ferrarese from Monkey Rock World

Sandakan might not be on everybody’s bucket list, but after visiting a couple of years ago, it now ranks really high on our list of recommendations!  

It’s easily accessible with  direct flights from Kuala Lumpur , as well as other Malaysian cities such as Kota Kinabalu.

The best time of year for visit is between May and August, but traveling in the shoulder months of April or even March means fewer crowds, cheaper prices and less rain. 

Not only is Sandakan a beautiful and peaceful little city with great food and friendly people, but it also serves as a perfect place to base yourself for a bunch of really exciting activities! 

Not to be missed is a visit to Turtle Island National Park , where you get to experience all of the important conservation efforts going on there while also enjoying an almost off-grid retreat on the paradise island! 

Alternatively, just south of Sandakan is Kinabatangan River , with a couple of nights’ stay at an incredible river-side lodge, a few wildlife river cruises, all of your meals and a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Center often included in the tour!  

Where to stay in Sandakan : We chose to stay at Sandakan Central Hotel as we were wanting somewhere affordable but still in a desirable location, and we were pleasantly surprised by it! 

Recommended by Alex and Harmony from By The Compass

Bako National Park 

Bako National Park is situated in the Sarawak region of Borneo and features some of the most unique wildlife and natural rock formations. 

The closest city to Bako National Park is Kuching. It’s easy to get from Kuching to Bako National Park as there are buses that go there directly. Take the number one red public bus that departs from the Kuching Waterfront area, opposite the Riverside Shopping Complex. 

It’s best to visit Bako National Park in the dry season from March to September. Keep in mind that it tends to get very hot in July, so make sure to stay hydrated. 

There are many hiking trails to explore, ranging from easy to more strenuous hikes. In addition to the hiking trails, wildlife is abundant, and visitors are guaranteed to see some animals. If you’re lucky enough you may even spot a proboscis monkey! 

Depending on the hike you choose, you may need to pay to catch a boat back to the entrance. The boat trip back is amazing though, as you get to sail past the Serpent Rock. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR OF BAKO NATIONAL PARK

Where to stay : There aren’t many accommodations close to Bako National Park, so if you’re on a budget, plan to stay in Kuching – Imperial Riverbank Hote l is a great mid-range option. Kuching is a great place to stay as there are amazing food options to refuel after a day on the trails. 

Recommended by Beth from Frugal Female Abroad 

Mulu National Park 

Mulu National Park is difficult to get to, but a world away from regular Malaysia and well worth the trip. There are stunning caves, hiking trails, ecotourism activities and extreme adventures. Plan ahead with the National Park guides to include canopy experiences, a visit to the Deer or Clearwater caves and definitely arrange to be there for the dusk exodus of the bats from the caves.  

The night walk with rangers is definitely recommended! One of the joys of visiting Mulu is that the sheer numbers of bats mean that there are no mosquitoes!  

There’s no specific best time to visit although July to September is the dry season and will be hotter, so is best avoided if you’re planning on doing strenuous hikes – this is also the peak season to visit and will be busiest. 

There are three ways to get to  Mulu National Park   the riverboat trip (only in the wet season), hiking the several days’ long Headhunters Trail or the more practical way for a weekend getaway in Malaysia, by flying in from Miri.  The airstrip is walkable to virtually all accommodation and there are transport options also available at the airstrip.  

Where to stay : You can choose to stay inside the National Park in the park accommodation, which you can book directly through the Park offices  here  but this can be limited. A recommended homestay option that you can pre-book is Mulu Village . 

Recommended by Sarah from ASocialNomad 

Kota Kinabalu 

The State of Sabah in Malaysia is famous for its beaches, forests, wildlife and water activities. Kota Kinabalu , the capital city of Sabah, reflects the beauty of the state.  

Kota Kinabalu is a heady combination of art, history, shopping, beaches and parties. From experience, we can say it’s one of the most tourist-friendly cities we’ve visited. If you’re looking for a short break, a visit to Kota Kinabalu could be a rejuvenating experience. 

You can get to Kota Kinabalu from KL  by taking a 2.5-hour flight. Cabs are the best way to get around the city. The weather is moderate throughout the year with regular showers keeping the heat at bay.

Things to see and do include Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu, the City Mosque. Surrounded by water, the Mosque is a beautiful example of modern Islamic architecture.  

Another attraction is the Sabah Museum. They have several displays of history, art, textiles, ethnography, archaeology and even a heritage village. You can also visit Tanjung Aru Beach late afternoon for the most beautiful sunset, providing a gorgeous assortment of colors.  

There are many cool cafes and bars and The Waterfront is the most popular hangout zone for locals and tourists. If you’re in the mood for shopping, Imago Mall has a variety of stores. 

Where to stay : One of the best places to stay in Kota Kinabalu is Hotel Avangio  which is moderately priced with comfortable rooms with enough facilities, including a pool. 

Pro-tip : There are some amazing trekking, water sports and diving destinations around Kota Kinabalu. 

Recommended by Sundeep and Bedabrata from Delhi Fun Dos 

I hope this guide gave you some ideas for your short getaway in Malaysia. Let me know in the comments below which location you’re planning to visit first for your short trip in Malaysia!

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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15 COOLEST Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur [2023!]

Best day trips from kuala lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur offers visitors a gateway into the very heart of Malaysia. From the amazing view offered by the Petronas Towers to simply strolling through its streets, the entire city is steeped in the rich and ancient history of the region.

Not all that Malaysia has to offer is kept within the city’s limits, and you may be tempted to steal away from the big city to explore even more.

But where exactly are the best spots to visit outside of the city? Should you head to the famous Batu Caves? Or perhaps go visit an elephant sanctuary? Or any of the other hundred options in the area? Well, that’s exactly why we’ve put this list together! To give you the very best day trips from Kuala Lumpur to choose from.

So read on to discover the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur with kids, as a couple, or if you’re on a budget, and get the very most out of your trip!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

• Romantic Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur for Couples – From Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Selangor Fireflies & Wildlife Tour
• Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur With Kids – Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary and Aboriginal Settlement
• Best Cheap Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur – From Kuala Lumpur: Genting Highlands and Batu Caves Day Trip

Best Places to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a big and busy place to visit. The city has a selection of good value accommodation on offer, from trendy flashpacker digs, to swanky towering hotels. The city centre can get pretty clogged up with traffic, so no matter what your budget is you should book a room near to a metro stop.

• Best Hostel in Kuala Lumpur •

Backhome kuala lumpur.

• Highly reviewed hostel

Trendy backpacker hostels are hot news in Kuala Lumpur at the moment, and this place is leading the pack. With its stream of glowing reviews, helpful staff, and a top location close to a central metro stop, there’s not much more to say apart from go ahead and book it!

• Best Budget Hotel in Kuala Lumpur •

City comfort hotel bukit bintang.

• Amazing location for food, transport and culture

Offering rooms at very low prices, this is totally one of the top budget hotels in Kuala Lumpur. Rooms here are modern and clean and those higher up boast great city views. Location-wise, it’s right in the heart of Chinatown and well connected by two metro lines.

• Best Luxury Hotel in Kuala Lumpur •

The ritz-carlton, kuala lumpur.

• Affordable luxury

If you’ve ever dreamed at staying at the Ritz, this one is a releavity affordable way to try out that undeniable luxury. There’s a selection of swish rooms complete with all of the high-end trimmings that you’d expect: it’s the Ritz! The location is close to shopping malls and public transport stops.

Staying Safe in Kuala Lumpur

While Kuala Lumpur is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Malaysia!

#1 Best Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur – Kuala Selangor Firefly and Wildlife Tour

Romantic day trips from kuala lumpur for couples.

• View tens of thousands of fireflies from the river
• Visit the historical Kota Melawati Fort
• Visit the bird sanctuary near Bukit Melawati

Fireflies have always had a romantic effect on most of us, but the sights to behold at Kuala Selangor take it to the next level for you and your significant other. Your trip will begin with a visit to the old fort Kota Melawati for a taste of the region’s history.

You’ll then move on to a local bird sanctuary, but don’t worry if birds don’t appeal to you, Silvered Leaf Monkeys live there too!

Your trip with culminates as a local oarsman propels you upstream to observe the thousands and thousands of fireflies that flock to the trees at night and illuminate each and every one like tropical Christmas trees.

The magic of Kuala Selangor is absolutely spellbinding and makes for one of the best romantic day trips from Kuala Lumpur.

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#2 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh

• Dive into the food at Ipoh Market
• Observe British colonial architecture
• View the stunning Rail Station and Perak Tong Temples

If your significant other and you share an affinity for tasty food, then a food tour of Ipoh is one of the best romantic day trips from Kuala Lumpur for couples that you could ask for.

You’ll first visit the architecturally striking Ipoh Rail Station before heading to the Perak Tong cave temples to marvel at their collection of Buddha Statues.

After the cave temples, you’ll then head to the famous Ipoh Market, observing British colonial buildings along the way. Once at the market, you can wade through the endless food options to get a taste of traditional Malaysian culinary creations before heading back to Kuala Lumpur.

You’ll end this trip comfortably full from delicious market food and visually striking architecture and culture, the perfect conclusion to a romantic trip with your partner.

#3 – Cameron Highlands Tour

• Visit a local tea plantation
• Pick your own fruit at a countryside farm
• Stroll through a fruit and vegetable market

If you and your significant other agree that you need a break from the crowds of busy Kuala Lumpur, then head out to the Cameron Highlands for a day in the country .

Together, you’ll explore the romantic hills as you learn about the tea growing process at a local plantation and pick your own strawberries at a nearby farm.

You can also meander through a local fruit and vegetable market as you admire the local produce, and perhaps buy a little to take back to Kuala Lumpur.

You’ll then have the opportunity to enjoy a locally prepared meal together and sample some of the local dishes. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Lata Iskandar waterfall before heading back to the city in the evening.

#4 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Crab Island

• Enjoy colorful murals and houses
• Sample fresh seafood
• Stroll through the streets of a traditional fishing village

Pulau Ketam, or Crab Island, is a small island just off the coast from the town of Port Klang and offers a full day’s worth of exploring and culinary indulgences for everyone that visits.

You will find a colorful collection of murals throughout the Port Klang village as you walk or cycle your way around, and equally numerous colorful buildings that make the perfect photo backdrop.

Be sure to sample the large array of seafood at any of the village’s many stalls and restaurants where you can find anything from squid, to crab, to fish and everything in between!

While there are no beautiful swimming beaches in Pulau, we still believe it is well worth a visit to explore and dive into the Malaysian fishing culture. Just remember to check ferry schedules before you go!

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#5 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson

• Relax on beautiful beaches
• Visit the Blue Lagoon
• Grab tasty coastal food

This lovely coastal town is the perfect choice if you’re on the hunt for day trips from Kuala Lumpur by car and a beach to cool off at.

A 90 minute or so drive south from the big city will bring you to these sandy and picturesque beaches and you’ll hopefully have your pick of spots to stop at and relax.

The beaches extend for miles along the coast, and the road conveniently follows suit, so simply pick the stopping point that suits you most.

Be sure to swing by the Blue Lagoon a little further south to sample its crystal clear waters and coral reef. When you’re finished at the beach, head into the town for some delicious food or to visit one of the museums/galleries in town.

#6 – Elephant Sanctuary

Best day trips from kuala lumpur with kids.

• See Asian Elephants
• Learn about elephant protection
• Experience the local indigenous culture

An exciting trip full of frolicking elephants and fascinating history is a sure win for families looking to take a break from the city sights.

This day trip from Kuala Lumpur will take you to a historic aboriginal settlement where you can see the local culture in its day-to-day routine, and learn about the indigenous peoples of Malaysia.

After the aboriginal settlement, you’ll head to the Asian Elephant Sanctuary that was specially constructed to save elephants put at risk to habitat loss. You’ll learn of the destructive effects of deforestation, and the uplifting stories of these elephants being nurtured back to full health.

Enjoy watching the Asian Elephant Sanctuary staff work with these gentle giants and enjoy an included lunch before heading back to the city.

This is without a doubt one of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur with kids, they will love being so close to these fascinating creatures, and learning about what is being done to help them.

#7 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca

• View the oldest European architectural remains on the Asian continent
• Visit the Dutch and Portuguese Squares
• Stroll through the Jonker Walk Bazaar

The fascinating history and architecture of Malacca make it the perfect day trip from Kuala Lumpur with kids for those historically inclined families.

Your trip will take you from St. Peter’s Church in Dutch Square off to the oldest surviving European architectural remains on the entire continent at A Famosa, a famous fort dating back hundreds of years.

You’ll then pay a visit to the Portuguese Square, or mini Lisbon, for yet another architectural shift in the city before heading off to the iconic Jonker Walk Bazaar where you can wander at will and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.

While perusing through the bazaar, don’t forget to try some of the many tasty treats and local delicacies on offer!

Check this out! – Our complete guide to the most underrated and coolest neighborhoods in Kuching!

#8 – Putrajaya Visit and Segway Tour

• Visit the Putra and Iron Mosques
• See the iconic Seri Wawasan Bridge
• View the Prime Minister’s Office

A Segway tour of the enchanting city of Putrajaya is the perfect day trip from Kuala Lumpur with kids.

Your trip includes a brief instructional lesson, and then your crew heads out, or rolls out rather, to find the sights. See the striking Putra Mosque as well as the most iconic bridge in the city, the Seri Wawasan.

You’ll then head to the Iron Mosque and catch a glimpse of the Malaysian Prime Minister’s office to round off your trip. Be sure to visit one of Putrajaya’s delicious eateries after, or even during, your trip!

#9 – Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

• Visit 1 of 6 Different Theme Parks
• Exciting Water Park
• Spend time with the characters in Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon

If the kids need a serious break from history and sightseeing, then consider a well-deserved day off at the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park .

The park actually contains 6 different parks in one, and you can take your pick between the water park, or one of the different themed amusement parks, or head on over to Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon to visit some of the kid’s favorite characters.

This relaxing family day trip from Kuala Lumpur is sure to recharge your batteries and make you ready to keep exploring the country!

#10 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara

• Enjoy a canopy walk
• Explore the area with a jungle trek
• Lunch in a floating restaurant

You’re sure to find something for everyone in the family with a day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara National Park . The Park protects the largest tract of ancient rainforest in the entire country while also hosting the tallest mountain in the region.

The striking rivers have a lush canopy full of animals and adventure, and you have the perfect combination for a phenomenal family trip!

You’ll have the chance to try jungle trekking, boating, and a canopy walk as you explore this majestic landscape and learn about the flora and fauna from a naturalist guide.

You’ll also enjoy lunch in a scenic floating restaurant before heading back to Kuala Lumpur that afternoon.

#11 – Genting Highlands and Batu Caves

Best cheap day trips from kuala lumpur.

• Relax at the country’s only casino resort
• Ride the scenic Genting Skyway cable car
• Visit the famous Batu Caves

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur and feel like experiencing a mix of history and luxury while not breaking the bank, then consider a day trip up to Genting Highlands and Batu Caves .

Take a cable car up into the cool climates and breath in the exhilarating mountain air as you escape the stifling confines of the city. Try unwinding with some cards or slots at the country’s only casino resort, or blow off some steam at the theme park that comes complete with its very own simulated skydiving center.

You’ll then return to Kuala Lumpur via the historic Batu Caves, where you’ll see the incredible and vivid murals that adorn this cave shrine to the Hindu faith and one of the tallest statues of a Hindu deity in all of Asia.

#12 – Batu Cave Cultural Tour

• Climb the 272 steps to the famous Hindu shrine
• View the famous statue of Lord Murugan
• Visit the Royal Selangor Pewter factory

If you’re fascinated by the ancient history of this region, but prefer to explore on the frugal side, then take an easy day trip to the Batu Cave complex . This ancient temple is housed in a series of limestone caves that feature beautiful murals from the Hindu religion as well as several gilded alters.

The entrance to the cave is protected by a massive statue of Lord Murugan, the 2 nd tallest statue of a Hindu deity in the world, as well as the iconic 272 steps to the first shrine.

Your tour will also include a visit to the world-renowned Royal Selangor Pewter factory where you’ll learn the ins and outs of fine pewter craftsmanship before embarking on the return journey back to Kuala Lumpur.

Recommended Article –  If you are going to stay in Penang, you should check out our article about Where to stay in Penang.

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#13 – Elephants, Fireflies, and Caves Tour

• Visit the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary
• Take in the sights at the Batu Caves
• See the enchanting fireflies of Bukit Melawati

If many of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur that we’ve mentioned so far interest you, but you’re on a tight schedule and prefer a quick whirlwind of all the best sights outside the city, then this is the trip for you!

You’ll start with a visit to the famous Batu caves to marvel at the limestone cave shrines to the Hindu faith and famous statue guarding its entrance.

You’ll then head to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary where you’ll learn of these gentle giants from the trained professionals and their lucky escape from habitat loss.

You may even be lucky enough to lend a hand in bathing the elephants in a shallow river! Your day trip will conclude at Bukit Melawati as you climb aboard a boat for a scenic trip down the river.

As the sun sets, your jaw will drop as the stunning fireflies of the region swarm along the river’s bank and up into the trees, illuminating the night sky.

#14 – Day Trip From Kuala Lumpur to Bentong

• Visit the Chamang Waterfall
• Hike through forest preserves
• Enjoy local food

For an example of small-town Malaysia away from city life, head north to the village of Bentong for an easy day trip from Kuala Lumpur by car.

The town is full of places to grab a tasty bite to eat and sample some authentic Malaysian food, and the surrounding area is bristling with nature to explore.

Visit the Chamang Waterfall in the neighboring forest reserves, and go for a hike through the endless forests to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country.

If you’re in the mood for a more resort-like feel, head out of town to the Colmar Tropical Resort for French-themed buildings and food.

#15 – Day Trip From Kuala Lumpur to Fraser’s Hill

• Visit the resort town of Fraser’s hill
• Enjoy some of the many walks in the area
• Visit Jeriau Waterfall

Perhaps one of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur with kids or significant others is Fraser’s Hill. Originally founded as a tin-ore trading post, the location now features a resort town that boasts some of the best bird watching and jungle hiking in the entire country.

The lower temperatures of Fraser’s Hill provide a welcome break from the heat at lower altitudes, and the lush rainforest canopy provides the gateway to a world of romantic exploration through the ancient forests.

There are a few different food options to choose from, but the main attraction is the outdoor life. Be sure to pay a visit to Jeriau Waterfall for a refreshing midday swim during your hikes! You can also check more COOLEST places to visit in Malaysia .

Bonus Trip! – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Sekinchan

• Learn about the rice growing industry and culture
• Visit the Paddy Processing Factory and Museum
• Enjoy delicious food on Seafood Street

Sekinchan is the perfect day-trip location for viewing the work and culture that surrounds Malaysia’s rice paddy industry.

The fields produce huge quantities of rice for the local food market, and the Paddy Processing Factory and Museum will give you all the information you need to understand the history and current importance of this process.

The nearby fishing village adds its contribution to this food market with an abundance of fresh-caught seafood. We highly recommend you give this delicious food a taste at one of the many eateries lining ‘seafood street’.

You should also plan to visit Sekinchan’s beautiful wishing tree at Pantai Redang Beach and throw your own lucky red ribbon up into its branches.

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

There you go everyone! We’ve covered the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur for nearly every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a romantic get away with your significant other or trying to find something that will keep both yourself and your kids interested, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect trip on this list.

We’ve also included a few low-cost options for those budget travelers out there. Plus, here’s a guide to the best hostels in Kuala Lumpur to save you time and money while in the beautiful area.

Enjoy your trip to Kuala Lumpur and don’t forget, the surrounding area is bursting with day trip opportunities!

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Kuala lumpur travel guide.

Experience Kuala Lumpur

Petronas Twin Towers

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National Mosque of Malaysia

Merdeka Square

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Where to Stay

The mews klcc by alma, four points by sheraton kuala lumpur, chinatown, hotel indigo kuala lumpur on the park, eaton residences by sutera@klcc, mercure kuala lumpur glenmarie, grand millennium kuala lumpur, parkroyal collection kuala lumpur, royce residence klcc by alma, the platinum suites 2 kl by whitfield, capri by fraser bukit bintang, four points by sheraton kuala lumpur, city centre, novotel kuala lumpur city centre, what to eat.

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Seafood Dinner For 1 Person - Kuala Lumpur Forum

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Seafood Dinner For 1 Person

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Looking for a high quality seafood restaurant but I’d like something more of a tapas style since I’m dining alone but keeping it local cuisine as much as possible.

6 replies to this topic

do you mind travelling to the suburbs?

I recommend this -

https://www.eatdrinkkl.com/posts/spotlight/unusual-marketplace-damansara-perdana

They open for dinner on some days of the week. You can take a Grab there and back

Thanks. That place looks good but not open until Wed and a bit far from Hilton KL where I’m staying. I will however try to make it there as I’m here until Sunday

The ikan bakar places on Jalan Bellamy are within walking distance of KL Hilton. We always walk from KL Sentral where we base ourselves. Not fine dining but out of this world seafood: stingray, squid, prawns, and whole fish as well. Give it a google or check out some YouTube videos. Very popular and crowded at peak hours...

Im interested in checking out the ikan bakar places - any particular stall you recommend and whats a good time to go there?

I like Seri Melaka. Best to go just after opening: 11:00 am. Gets crowded at lunchtime.

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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)