The Best Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital, a multicultural metropolis with Tamil, Chinese, Malay, and indigenous residents. Kuala Lumpur is sprawled across 200 square kilometers (approx. 125 miles) and has merged with nearby suburbs to become a center of activity and trade.


Tourists make Kuala Lumpur a major priority, while in Malaysia, owing to the wide range of sites for visitors to select from, ranging from the more traditional to the more modern. Shrines and mosques highlight the city's variety, along with unique futuristic architecture and skyscrapers, local markets and street cuisine.


Whether you choose to spend a day meandering around a lush park or shop in a giant mall, Kuala Lumpur has something for everyone of all kinds and budgets. So let's explore some of the best things to enjoy!

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur


Make a Visit to See the Petronas Towers

Petronas Towers at Sunset, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Petronas Towers, once the world's tallest buildings (until 2004), still remain the world's tallest twin towers and among the most recognizable Kuala Lumpur destinations globally. Due to Malaysia's Muslim predominance, the skyscrapers include postmodern design and architecture with Islamic decorations. Tourists come here to stroll across Sky Bridge, connecting the two buildings and taking in the fantastic views that sweep across Kuala Lumpur.

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Visit Sri Mahamariamman Temple to Learn About its History

Vibrant colors of Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Sri Mahamariamman Temple, established in the 19th century and the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur, is well worth visiting for anyone interested in learning about the city's varied religions and cultures. The site is a functional temple and a place that cannot be missed while Kuala Lumpur travel, as it is a center of prayer for the local Tamils, but tourists are welcome to wander the grounds and marvel at the design and ambiance.

Try Eating Nasi Kandar to Get a Taste of the Native Flavor

Nasi kandar is a popular northern Malaysian dish, which originates from Penang. It was popularized by Indian Muslim traders from India

Nasi Kandar, which translates as "mixed rice," is a staple of Malaysian cuisine. Customers will be given a bowl of boiled rice and choose from a range of garnishes and dressings to go with it. Because of the large number of Southern Indian immigrants, Nasi Kandar is inspired by Tamil meals, as well as the sauces, soups and stews are heavy on garam masala and chile. In addition, Nasi Kandar meals frequently incorporate curried meat or fish and a veggie ingredient, including okra or cabbage. If you want to be sure to try many different local flavors accompanied by an expert guide, check out the 10 tastings tour below!

Visit the Bird Park to Meet Some Feathered Companions

An Indian peacock (Pavo cristatus)

This massive aviary spans over 20 acres and hosts over 3000 birds to promote indigenous species to tourists. However, there are some foreign birds housed inside the park as well. The reserve is also a well-known scientific destination, focusing on preservation, outreach, breeding programs, and academic research on birds within their native habitat. You can book in person or grab an e-ticket online below.

Learn Some History from the National Museum

The National Museum of Malaysia (Malay: Muzium Negara)

The museum, located close to the famed Lake Gardens, is a fantastic building since it is formed in a historic home and has embellishments that blend modern and more classic themes. During your Kuala Lumpur vacation, you must plan to visit museums to learn about Malaysia's culture and traditions and see reconstructions of Malay dwellings, wedding scenarios, and hunting exhibitions. Regional instruments and regional costumes are also on display. In addition to the museum's regular collections, seasonal exhibits rotate all year round and are displayed in the Main Hall.

Have a Lovely Day at the Water Park

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, located a little outside of the city center in the Petaling Jaya neighborhood, has been great for the entire family since its inception in 1997. Their tagline is 'Come Feel the Fun,' and tourists to the region may enjoy not just an amusement park but also the beach, wildlife, and 'extraordinary' park with more daring attractions. The complex comprises video games, wave and surfing spas, and even a zoo. The park also has many shopping opportunities for visitors looking for souvenirs.

Dive into the depths of KLCC Aquarium

Sharks in aquarium at under world park Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Aquaria KLCC is billed as an "oceanarium" nestled in the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre basement. It spans over sixty thousand sq ft and has a 300-foot tunnel in the middle that allows guests to experience the bottom up close because they are encircled on three sides by water. The service is designed as a land-to-sea tour to educate tourists on Malaysian sea species, from fresh water and wetlands to the wider ocean. Also, there are educational and interactive displays that promote the significance of conservation.

Visit Central Market and Go Shopping

Main entrance of art deco building called Central Market in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur has a center called Pasar Seni, a popular tourist attraction that evolved from a wet market selling fruits, vegetables, and meat. Today, the area has been modernized and has distinct parts to reflect Malaysia's many cultures and ethnic origins, such as Malaysian, Indian, and Chinese regions offering local items such as gifts and arts and crafts. In addition, you can find a food court on the upper level offering local specialties, and the plaza in front of the market is notable for street musicians and musical acts.

Visit the Central Railway Station to Learn About Railway History

Kuala Lumpur old railway station in Malaysia. Built in 1910 in the unique Anglo-Asian architecture style

Kuala Lumpur Railway Terminal has a railway museum located inside. The station, constructed during the British colonization and finished in 1910, is a blend of Asian and European designs and presently houses vintage exhibits such as emergency vehicles and steam trains in the Grand Hall. There are indeed replicas and reproductions of trains and carriages, and visitors may walk around the platform and discover Malaysia's engine history.

Try Some Hutong Street Cuisine

Various types of Lot 10 Hutong Food Court's signage hanging outside the Lot 10 shopping mall

Eateries within malls are plentiful in Kuala Lumpur. Still, Hutong, located within Lot 10 Mall, is believed to be among the greatest, especially for the tourists staying in the nearby Kuala Lumpur hotels. The dining commons are built of community market stalls chosen and invited to sell unique specialties. Since it's all located under one roof, it may just become your go-to place to eat while you stay in this area. The food hall is an excellent spot for beginners to try traditional food. It serves the most popular and delectable local delicacies, including oyster omelets, noodle soups, buns, meatballs, and smoked sausages.


Visit the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

Worlds tallest pewter beer mug at Royal Selangor

The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, something of a hidden treasure and surprisingly under-visited, shows the history, factory, and goods of Royal Selangor, founded in 1885. Complimentary guided tours include a museum part featuring early examples of their artistry, historical images, and even period clothing for guests to put on, followed by the tour to the functioning Royal Selangor factory. You may very well try your hand at making a few of the pewter items yourself since there is a toy store on-site if you want to start stocking up on pewter jewelry and decorations.

Enjoy the Pleasant Views at the Menara Kuala Lumpur

Misty sunrise over city skyline with Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower

This 335-meter (1100 ft) skyscraper, the Menara Kuala Lumpur, boasts an observation deck with impressive city views. The tower serves a variety of purposes, including serving as an observation deck for the viewing of the moon to commemorate the start of the month of Ramadan and hosting a yearly race to the summit to promote fitness and health. The visiting deck takes the lifts fifty-four seconds to reach the top.

Do a Tour Around the Impressive Jamek Mosque

Masjid Jamek Kuala Lumpur with a blue sky

Jamek Mosque, one of Malaysia's oldest mosques, was created in the early 1900s and is known for its Moorish style architecture and position at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. As a result, tourists may explore portions of the mosque (when dressed appropriately) and take in the breathtaking views across the ocean. This mosque served as the city's major Muslim house of worship for many years, and it has a long history of prominent speakers and church figures who have visited.


Take a Stroll Around Chinatown

The crowded market street of Jalan Petaling in the old Chinatown area of the metropolitan city of Kuala Lumpur.

Apart from Malay and Indian communities, Kuala Lumpur has a sizable Chinese community. Chinatown has a rich history in Malaysia and is well worth visiting. Found on Petaling Street, you'll find everything from Chinese cuisines, excellent night markets to explore and pick up souvenirs or find Chinese herbal medicine. So immerse yourself in the experience and be prepared to haggle!

Travel to Istana Negara to Learn About Royal History

Royal palace Istana Negara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Until a modern palace was built in 2011, Istana Negara served as the residence of Malaysia's past monarchs. In 2011, Istana Negara was classified as just a royal museum. Tourists can see some of the chambers, and there are royal soldiers in both contemporary and traditional clothing stationed at the gate. Each day, visitors may observe a few of Malaysia's royal and governmental ceremonial traditions by watching the change of the guard event.

Go to the Maybank Numismatic Museum and Count Some Currency

Old High Courts (Wisma Lee Rubber, Maybank and HSBC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Maybank Numismatic Museum, owned and administered by one of Malaysia's largest and most well-known banks, Maybank, is home to one of the country's most incredible cash and currency collections housed within the famous Maybank Tower. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including historical currencies and a massive metal sculpture of a 'money tree.' Visitors may also learn about Malaysia's and Southeast Asia's money histories.


Bring the Family and Visit the Batu Caves

Batu Caves  with Lord Murugan standing tall at the base in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Batu Caves are limestone cliffs littered with caves and sculpted cave temples outside Kuala Lumpur inside the Selangor region. Visitors may wander at these rocky cliffs dotted by tunnels and carved cavern temples. The caverns and shrines are Hindu shrines still major pilgrimage sites for Malaysia's sizeable Tamil population. At the base of the Batu caves, you can see the tallest golden-colored statue of "Lord Murugan." When you reach the top steps, you can get an excellent view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

Do a Tour of the Golden Triangle for the Evening

Kuala Lumpur Urban Scene, Malaysia

It is a prominent place in Kuala Lumpur that offers a wide range of entertainment, dance, cuisine, and hotel alternatives. The neighborhood is divided into various streets. With this tourists can pick from a range of places to eat and party till morning. In addition, the neighborhood features a major shopping mall where you can buy some souvenirs before heading outside for a night out in the town.

Final Thoughts


So, are you getting excited yet? Grab your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure! You will love this place, and remember to take lots of pictures to make the memories last a lifetime.

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