In just one hundred years, Kuala Lumpur, or “muddy confluence” in Malay, has transformed itself from a small mining town into a cosmopolitan metropolis. It can be thought of as halfway between the developing and chaotic Bangkok to the north and the high-tech and orderly Singapore to the south.
This is considered to be Malaysia's largest indoor theme park. It has two sections: one for children, and the other for thrill-seekers. You need only one ticket to get into both sections. Its most popular ride is the seven-story indoor roller coaster.
The National Science Center was built in 1996 as a way of promoting science and technology. The exhibitions highlight themes which link science and daily life and the environment and religion.
Space always holds a fascination for kids and they are sure to love this Planetarium where they can peer through a 14 inch telescope which gives them a stunning view of the sky. A space-themed park has replicas of ancient observatories. An overhead pedestrian bridge connects the Planetarium with the National Museum. With an impressive blue-domed structure, the Planetarium signifies Malaysia's stride towards becoming a scientifically progressive society.
The Golden Triangle is known as KL's commercial, shopping, and entertainment hub. Here you'll find all the major shops and outlets, along with towering skyscrapers (such as the Petronas Towers) and top-end hotels.
The Southeast Asian equivalents of the Empire State Building, the Petronas Towers are Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic buildings. They were the tallest in the world from their completion in 1998 until 2004, when they were surpassed by Taipei 101. The Petronas Towers rise to a height of 378m (450m including the spires). The frame was constructed with reinforced concrete, and because of the extra weight the buildings’ foundations are the deepest in the world at 120m. The first tower is fully occupied by Malaysia’s oil company, Petronas.
If you are in the mood to try some dim sum or are in need for a specific pirated item, then there is no better neighborhood to be in than Chinatown. Chinatown is famous for having a large and extensive selection of Chinese food along with being the best place to go for inexpensive and knock-off goods. Be assured, though, that you will need some serious bargaining skills clothing and pirated items can go as low as 70% less than the offered price.
Known as the Art Deco Central Market, this vibrant bazaar has been around since 1936 and has grown to hold over 130 arts and crafts shops along with regular cultural performances. Before such a cultural explosion, the Central Market was popular for being KL's top destination when buying fresh produce. In 1986 the market took a turn and became what it is today: a conglomeration of diverse items sold in one place.
Translated as “Independence Square" KL's Merdeka Square is the place where at midnight on August 31, 1957 the Malayan Flag was hoisted for the first time after lowering the Union Flag.
If you want to know more about Malaysian history, then this is the place for you. The Muzium Negara (National Museum) was opened in 1963 to introduce visitors to Malaysian's rich history. Various exhibitions, the building's architectural style, and a number of craftworks are some of the things to expect when in the museum.
If you want to escape city life but still want to feel the movement of people, then head over to Bangsar, a much sought after residential and entertainment suburb in the Klang Valley.
Tagged as one of the best restaurants in the country, the Mahsuri is sure to satisfy your appetite and palate with its Asian and continental cuisine. The scenery further stimulates your senses through its view of the city skyline that is yours to feast on as you dine on the veranda.
If you have had your fill of Asian cuisine, then try something new and head over to Shangri-la Hotel's delicious French restaurant. In truly stereotypical French fashion, the atmosphere in the Lafite is a bit refined. However, the food is savory and the design aesthetically appealing with its chandeliers, fresh flowers, and views of the garden through its tall windows.
There is no better atmosphere in which to dine than at the revolving restaurant located at the 'Tower Head' of the Menara Kuala Lumpur. The Seri Angkasa sits 282 meters above ground level (925 feet) and offers a continental cuisine and an affordable Malaysian buffet.
If you are looking for the local dining flavor, search no further than Seri Melayu. This restaurant is unbeatable in Malaysian cuisine. In addition, foreigners flock to this 500-seat restaurant because not only are the diners treated to authentic Malaysian cuisine, but they are also introduced to cultural shows which are performed every night. Traditional Chinese and Thai dishes are also on the menu.
If you’re hankering for a burger in KL, look no further than Hakka Republic. Don’t be fooled by the Chinese characters and decoration – this restaurant specializes in steakhouse fare and other western dishes. In addition to the burgers, which have been rated as the city’s best, the steamed wagyu beef also comes highly recommended. No pork is served here. The attached bar is one of KL’s trendiest, and the wine list is excellent. Though it’s relatively expensive compared to food in Malaysia, Hakka Republic is nevertheless cheaper than comparable restaurants elsewhere. It’s also conveniently located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s CBD, close to public transportation.
Prepare your palate for it will be shaken when you dine at Shook! Its fusion cuisine of Italian, Chinese, and Japanese will enamor and stimulate your taste buds that you will desire more. Yet, the food is not the only attractive feature at this restaurant, its trendy decor and soothing jazz music add a further element of enticement that you will be savoring every moment and bite.
Located in one of the only remaining grand mansions in the city, the Top Hat restaurant was once a school and now has grown to become an opulent locale brightly colored and furnished with various antiques. As for the menu, it offers spectacular traditional Malay, Thai, Western, and vegetarian dishes. However, in case you become enamored with a dish, be aware that three months down the line, this dish will most likely not be available. Top Hat likes to mix things up by changing its menu every three months.
The intimacy and coziness found in Eden Village, perhaps because it is meant to resemble a Malay house. Here you will be able to try some popular Malay dishes such as the braised Shark's fin in a clay pot. The cuisine is traditional Malay food, and authenticity is attained through its mixture of Malay residents and foreigners.
You will not get better Italian food in Malaysia then at Scalini's La Piccola Italia. A testament to its high quality dishes is that Scalini's is always so booked that making a reservation is essential. As for its aesthetic appeal, the restaurant is situated in a colonial style bungalow that overlooks the popular Golden Triangle area.
British cuisine is not the first thing that springs to mind when thinking about Kuala Lumpur, despite the British colonial presence, but lo and behold Albion is one of the city’s finest restaurants. Opened by expats, this restaurant features modern British food. The interior décor is stylish, and would not be out of place back in London. The a la care menu features a number of British specialties, including fish and chips and Lancashire hot pot. A fixed menu lunch is served during the week from noon until 2:30, changing daily. There’s also a trendy bar, with all sorts of exotic cocktails to sample from. The service is excellent as well. This is a great place to go for a break from traditional Asian fare.
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Known as one of KL's finest hotels, the Shangri-La Hotel offers its guests a serene atmosphere and luxurious comfort. Located in a lush garden, the Shangri-La has 681 urbanely stylish and spacious air conditioned rooms and 39 suites.
The Palace of the Golden Horses overlooks an 150 acre lake with extensive surrounding gardens. It has a unique Malaysian/Moorish architecture and also offers modern facilities. The hotel has extensive conference facilities and is convenient to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the city center.
The Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur is a regal 36 storey 5-star hotel. It encompasses 5 floors of parking- favorably situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur business district and entertainment and shopping areas. It is only 45 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
This newly opened hotel (since 2004) holds a large piece of the percentage pie when being considered as KL's finest hotel. One thing you will not ever forget if you stay here is the deep sleep from those cushiony beds people - rave about its mattresses! Another attractive detail is its elbowed proximity to the Petronas Towers.
The elegant Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel is located in the heart of the Golden Triangle and a short stroll from Petronas Twin Towers, shopping and nightlife. Moreover this 5-star hotel features two wings with a state-of-the-art convention centre. In addition, its spacious rooms have amenities that are as bountiful as the vitality of Malaysia’s capital. The rooms also offer high-speed internet, safe, mini-bar and plush bedding.
This five star hotel will help make your trip to Kuala Lumpur an elegant and luxurious ride. The hotel is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, and is within walking distance of the Petronas Towers, the KL Tower, Chinatown, the Suria KLCC shopping center and more. The hotel has many facilities, including an outdoor pool and garden, multiple spas and expansive ballrooms (one of which can seat up to 2,000 guests). Many state-level events have been held here before, which speaks to the hotel’s quality. The hotel also has a business center that can provide for many of the business traveler’s daily needs. The hotel features its own florist, shoe-shine services and a shopping arcade. Rooms come complete with high-speed internet, a television with in-house movies, luxurious toiletries and more conventional amenities, each served to match the quality of the facility. A stay here will be sophisticated and elegant, and will come at a price to match.
This hotel is located in the center of Kuala Lumpur and is extremely close to some of the city’s most important attractions, including the Petronas Towers, the KL Tower (Menara) and the Suria KLCC shopping center. The hotel offers the choice of studio rooms to three bedroom residences, each equipped with a big screen television, a home entertainment system, and for the larger suites, a modern kitchen. The outdoor pool is accompanied by a hot tub and the hotel features an elegant spa center as well. Tennis courts and a fitness center add to the dynamism of this hotel. The Ascott has a multiple restaurants and a lounge to enjoy drinks, as well as state-of-the-art conference facilities and computer work-stations that are geared towards attracting business customers. The business center will also allow you to take care of all printing needs and is available 24 hours a day. The hotel is a great portal for tours in Kuala Lumpur and will make sure that your stay in the city is more than comfortable.
This five star hotel chain is conveniently located near the shopping district and offers impressive views of the PETRONAS Towers. The Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur offers guests the luxury of a superb spa and leisure facilities right in the heart of the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur.
The Novotel Hydro Majestic is conveniently located adjacent to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, in the famous Golden Triangle tourist and commercial precinct. The 28 storey hotel features 291 rooms, an executive floor, 4 restaurants, a fitness centre, spa and swimming pool. Situated in the popular Bukit Bintang shopping district and only 500 meters from Petronas Twin Towers. Guests have easy access to the city's trendiest boutiques, cafes and major tourist attractions.
For the price you are paying, the rooms at the Concorde Hotel are quite spacious. For instance, in your room you'll find well adjusted desks, sidechairs, comfortable beds, and spotlessly clean bathrooms.
A valid passport for the duration of stay is needed to enter Malaysia. Also, depending on your type of nationality and visit, visa requirements will vary.
No drastic climatic changes occur in Kuala Lumpur, so expect its typical temperament of humidity, heat, and wetness as the norm. Yet, there are two seasons when these three climatic characteristics may take a bit of leap: between March and April and between September and November.
Most of these dates vary annually.
Though the people of KL are not an explicitly friendly bunch, they are a very welcoming and accepting crowd. Therefore, do not let their timid and shy exterior fool you, for Kualumpurians are one of the most culturally diverse and ethnically accepting people around. In fact, an admirable characteristic of KL residents is the minute level of racial problems in occurrence (which is tremendously less than those found in the West).
January; High:: 31.9 °C ( 89.4 °F ); Low :: 22.1 °C ( 71.8 °F ) February
In just one hundred years, Kuala Lumpur, or “muddy confluence” in Malay, has transformed itself from a small mining town into a cosmopolitan metropolis. It can be thought of as halfway between the developing and chaotic Bangkok to the north and the high-tech and orderly Singapore to the south.
Kuala Lumpur was founded in 1857 by a group of miners searching for tin by the Kelang and Gombak Rivers, for which the city is named. Kuala Lumpur is Malay for “muddy confluence”. These early miners were ill equipped to deal with tropical diseases like malaria, and many fell ill and died. But the tin lured even more miners to KL, and it soon became a sprawling and anarchic boomtown.
Location:: Western Peninsula Malaysia.; Dialling code:: 60 ( country ) 03 ( city ); Population:: 1.4 million (city); 1.9 million (metropolitan area).
Malaysia's currency is the ringgit, available in banknotes of 1 ringgit, 2 ringgit, 5 ringgit, 10 ringgit and 50 ringgit, as well as 100 ringgit, 500 ringgit and 1000 ringgit. Coins are available in denominations of 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 50 sen and 100 sen. Note that 1 ringgit equals 100 sen.
Suria KLCC is an upscale shopping center located within walking distance from the Petronas Towers. Some of the eye-catching and wallet-squeezing stores include Tiffany & CO., Marks & Spencer, DKNY, Calvin Klein, and Polo among others. However, this six level shopping center offers than just high-end shopping, the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra Theatre is located within its walls along with a variety of cafes and dining establishments and Cineplex theaters. For a picturesque view, simply walk outside toward the back of the mall and you will find a landscape park with fountains, jogging trails, and a mini pool. The Aquaria KLCC and LRT station are nearby.
KL's most glamorous and luxurious mall, along with being the most expensive, is the Starhill Gallery. Here you will find top-end designers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci along with some haute couture pieces. If you are need of rest from a long day of shopping, you can relax and regain energy at its spa located on the 5th floor.
Known as one of the biggest malls in Southeast Asia, the Mid Valley Megamall has about 300 stores, a large food court, a Carrefour hypermarket, an 18-screen cinema, and a bowling alley. In short, the Mid Valley Megamall is the place to go to for a one-stop shopping and entertainment experience.
The Royal Selangor Pewter Factory has been Malaysia's main pewter manufacturer since 1885. Its merchandise includes a varied mix of tableware items which are amongst the most popular in Malaysia and recognized internationally.
Sungei Wang Plaza and BB Plaza adjoin to form one of KL's biggest and best shopping complexes. You could lose yourself for hours exploring here. Sungei Wang is particularly good for youthful fashion and accessories, including many up-and-coming Malaysian designers.
Known as the Art Deco Central Market, this vibrant bazaar has been around since 1936 and has grown to hold over 130 arts and crafts shops along with regular cultural performances. Before such a cultural explosion, the Central Market was popular for being KL's top destination when buying fresh produce. In 1986 the market took a turn and became what it is today: a conglomeration of diverse items sold in one place.
Head over to Chow Kit if you want to shop like a local or observe what the locals are buying. It is one of KL's most popular “wet markets'' which refers to it being an open food market where only fresh food is expected to be sold. For this reason, it is a great place to buy local produce such as fruits, vegetables, tofu, spices, and various meats. You can also find some clothing and electronic items, though it is best to visit Chow Kit for nothing other than its inexpensive and delicious local food.
The National Craft Complex is not your ordinary local shopping complex because it allows you to create your own Malaysian handicrafts. Making such items can be great for personalized gifts. The complex also hosts a craft museum which highlights the evolution of Malaysia's handicrafts up to the latest production technology. Moreover, if you are in search of an item that is not originally from Kuala Lumpur but from another part of KL, you need not worry. The National Craft Complex sells traditional items from every nook and cranny in Malaysia.
Because of its minimal frequency (held on the first Saturday of every month), the Kuala Lumpur Arts Market has become one of KL's most popular and attractive markets. This market brings in over 80 artists and craft makers from all over Malaysia, so it is sure to satisfy the shopping desires of a plentitude of shoppers. However, visitors flock to this market not only for its varied items, but also for its cultural performances which are based on traditional Malaysian arts. Past performances have included free movie screenings and wayang kulif (shadow puppets).
Founded in 1996, Valentine Willie is one of KL's best galleries. It has a calendar of changing exhibitions featuring the best of Malaysia's contemporary art plus works from artists based throughout the region. They also have a library of art periodicals and other resources from across the globe which is open to the public.
Located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, this aquarium features aquatic life and animals from Malaysia and around the world. Exhibits include depictions of the Malaysian jungle, from the highlands down to the ocean. There is also a plentiful collection of reptiles, insects, amphibians, and small mammals (otters, large rodents, etc.). More than 20,000 animals from 250 different species call this aquarium home. The highlight is a 90m long underwater tunnel, which gives a great view of the fish.
At 421m, the Kuala Lumpur Tower is the sixth largest telecommunications tower in the world. It was constructed between 1991 and 1995 for Telekom Malaysia. Because it is built on a hill (Bukit Nanas, or Pineapple Hill), the KL Tower actually appears taller than the Petronas Towers. Malaysia’s Islamic tradition is reflected here. The interior features Arabic script, and other Islamic motifs. The tower also acts as an Islamic falak observatory.
The Batu Caves lie thirteen kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur in the appropriately titled suburb of Batu Caves. Inside is a temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, a popular god among the Tamil people. The temple was founded in 1891 by Tamil immigrants to Malaysia. The caves are one of Hindu’s holiest sites outside of India.
Founded in 1998, this is a comprehensive museum dedicated to art in the Islamic world. It is one of just a few museums dedicated solely to Islamic art, and perhaps the best. The building itself is elegantly designed and decorated. There are five different domes. In the entrance hall is an inverted dome, adorned with arabesque and gilded cartouches.
Get a taste of all the 13 Malaysian states in Kuala Lumpur during the Malaysian festival. This two-week celebration hosts several shows and demonstrations that exhibit Malaysian culture ranging from performaning arts to handicrafts to food. Also, several shopping complexes and hotels enter a bright-lights competition where the best lit locale wins.
The Thaipasum festival is a sight to behold. Do not be shocked to find die hard Hindu devotees parading the streets with metal frames hooked to their bodies by skewers as a way of showing their devotion to Hindu deities.
For the Chinese, the New Year is the single most important event in the year. It celebrates the first day of the lunar calendar and the celebrations last for 15 days. It is a time for large family reunions and merry making and feasting. The Chinese believe that the mythological monster was scared away on this occasion by the color red and a lot of noise. This is why they wear red this day and decorate their homes and streets with red lanterns and let off a lot of firecrackers. Gift money is given to children in red envelopes. Vibrant, enthusiastic lion dances are also a part of the celebrations.
In commemoration of Kuala Lumpur's declaration as a Federal Territory on Feb 1, many colorful festivities occur especially around the Lake Gardens and Lake Titiwangsa. Exciting events such as fishing competitions, coloring contests, a blood donation campaign, and many more are held. The Kuala Lumpur City Hall buzzes with activity as people throng there to witness cultural performances, exhibitions and fireworks displays. This day is a gazetted public holiday in Kuala Lumpur.
All bargain lovers will feel as if they have reached bargain heaven when arriving at KL during the Malaysia Megasale Carnival. Not only are deals found everywhere, but promotions, activities, and contests are sure to lure craved shoppers even further to take advantage of the deals. Also, if you are looking for a super cheap flight to KL, then you'll be wise to search for a bargain during this time. This Carnival is held thrice a year in March, August and December.
The Half-Day KL City Tour is a good take upon arrival because it gives you a summarized breakdown of the city. This tour also stops at some of the major tourist attractions, allowing you to go off and explore. Some of the tour sights include:
If you want to explore the nocturnal side of KL, then hop-on the Cultural Night Tour which promises a fun-filled evening mixed with cultural enrichment. The itinerary includes:
The Half-Day Batu Caves Tour takes you to one of the biggest attractions in Kuala Lumpur - the Batu Caves. These caves became popular after American Naturalist William Hornaday discovered them in 1878. These caves hold many Hindu shrines and are in the form of a temple. In addition there are 272 steps that a visitor has to climb before entering the temple at the summit of the hill.
Situated at the confluence of the Klang River and the Gonbak River, where Kuala Lumpur was founded, the Masjid Jamek is the oldest mosque in the city. Before 1965, it was the city’s main mosque. It was designed by British architect Arthur Benison Hubbock, who also designed the city’s former railway station. The architecture is inspired by the mosques of Mughal India, where Hubbock once worked. The most notable feature is the three onion-shaped domes. The tallest minaret rises to a height of 27m.
Jalan Budiman, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory, Malaysia
Masjid Tun Abdul Aziz, also known as Masjid Bulat, is in Section 14 of Petaling Jaya, Selangor. It is associated with Jalan Semangat, now named Jalan Professor Khoo Kay Kim. It is a separate mosque from Masjid Negara in central Kuala Lumpur.
Masjid Negara is Malaysia’s National Mosque on Jalan Perdana in Kuala Lumpur. Completed on 27 August 1965, it is known for its modern interpretation of Malaysian mosque architecture and umbrella-shaped roof. The national mosque directory lists a library, lecture room and accessible ablution and toilet facilities.
Jalan Mahkamah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory, Malaysia 03-9235 4848
1 Jalan Hang Tuah, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory, Malaysia
You can grab a special airport taxi from the airport any time of day or night. The usual charge for a ride from the airport into town is about RM88 ($23) if you want to be seated in a Mercedes premier car or Rm63 ($17) if you prefer a standard national car (Proton).
Express coaches are the cheaper and yet still comfortable way to travel from the airport to your desired destination. These coaches connect KLIA to most of the city's major hotels and central areas. Also, they operate every half hour from 5:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. daily and each ride costs about RM20 ($5.25) for adults and RM13 ($3.40) for children. The ride takes about an hour and 15 minutes.
The fastest ways to reach your desired destination is by train. One option is to take the Express Rail Link which runs between KLIA and KL Sentral train Station from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. Departures occur every 15 minutes and take 28 minutes to reach the final destination. Adult tickets cost RM35 ($9.20) and RM15 ($3.95) for children.
The public transportation system in Malaysia is inexpensive and efficient, though very crowded. Managed by Rapid KL (owned by the Malaysian government), Malaysia's public transportation system encompasses 56 railway stations and a little over 90 bus routes.
These are two of KL's major bus lines. KL's bus system is very complex and well developed, especially after 2005 when 200 more buses were added to the existing fleet.
These commuter trains have two routes which travel from Sentul to Port Klang and from Rawang to Seremban. Fares vary depending on the distance.
Taxis are easily found on the streets of Kuala Lumpur and are not very expensive either. It is better to fix the rate of your trip as most taxi drivers will not use the meter. Be sure to bargain though. The yellow premium taxis are slightly more expensive than the regular red and white ones. There are also surcharges for radio call, baggage, etc.
In order to rent a car in Malaysia, you need an international driving permit. Some of the requirements include that the driver must be at least 23 years old and have held a driving license for at least two years prior.
Driving in KL is not as bad as driving in other South East Asian cities. KL's roads are well-paved and the drivers aren't too speed craved. However, KL's street lay-out is not the simplest to get a handle of, so be certain that as a newcomer you will get lost. A road map is a must, along with a little bit of patience during rush hour.
As always, when you are abroad pay close attention to the food you eat and liquids you drink because travelers' diarrhea is one of the most common travel-related ailments.
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