The 21 Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
Capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur City is the most popular tourist destination that observes numerous visitors each year. Home to glistening buildings clad in glass and steel sparkle like no other place, it is a marvel to be here and enjoy the architecture that city offers.
The city also hosts countless natural attractions that refresh and rejuvenates your mind. Some of such natural places that you must visit when in Kuala Lumpur are Bamboo Playhouse, ASEAN Sculpture Garden, etc. So whenever you are here, you will always relish the greenery the city proffers.
Top Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur
1. Petronas Tower:
Upon visiting the Petronas Twin Tower, you will feel like a speck as you climb the height of this 452-meter tall building. With the surroundings of the building even more mesmerizing, a day falls short when visiting this astonishing wonder that touches the skyline.
As you go up, a thrill is instilled in the body by looking towards the starting point. The lifts take you to the sky bridge faster than expected and give an overwhelming view of the city.
With one view over, you will be all the happier to be on the 86th floor and get the next 360-degree view from the deck. This usually is the first time for some experiencing height, therefore, it becomes a memorable moment that is cherishable.
Suggested Tour: Airport Private Transfer by Car/Van
Best Time to visit:
For an exhilarating view, you must visit the Petronas Twin towers between 7 pm to 9 pm to observe the light show that lasts for 15 minutes. The place is open every day except Monday between 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 pm.
How to reach:
A train from Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) will drop you at Petronas Towers and takes about 43 min. Alternatively, Aerobus operates a bus from KL International Airport T2 to KL Sentral every 20 minutes costing RM 12. You can reach the Ptronas in a 1h.
Top Attraction:
The Sky bridge and the Observation Deck.
Interesting Facts:
The tower has a total of 32000 windows.
Where To Stay:
The Penthouse KLCC, Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and Soho Suites KLCC are some of the luxury places to stay near the twin towers.
Things to do:
Appreciate the Light show, the structure as it is a blend of tradition and urban beliefs.
2. Menara KL Tower:
Appreciating the panoramic view of the city of Kuala Lumpur is best done from a height of 421 meters. Reach this beautiful place with a glass bottom in a matter of a few seconds. Yes, in about 54 seconds you will be ascended to the height of 335 meters where the observation deck is and where you can land for a captivating view of the city.
Best Time to visit:
Open each day between 9:00 a.m. to 10: 00p.m.
How to reach:
Take the ‘Go KL City Bus’. It is a Purple Line Bus that stops at the KL Tower. Other way is to board the Kelana Jaya Line LRT that will drop you to the Dang Wangi station; from here you may walk to the Menara Tower which is minutes away.
Top Attraction:
The deck has a wide roof and offers a glass view.
Interesting Facts:
This is the highest point in the city that is open for public visit.
Where To Stay:
Pacific Regency Hotel Suites, Ramada Suites By Wyndham KLCC and Oasis Suites Kuala Lumpur are some amazing places bestowing relaxation.
Things to do:
Enjoy eating at a restaurant at the Menara Tower amongst the clouds.
Suggested Tour: KL tower skip the line tickets and Observation Deck
3. Chinatown:
A paradise for the shopaholics, especially those who thoroughly enjoy bargaining, China Town will be your biggest find in Kuala Lumpur. The place has varied hues and a very warm ambiance. This market never sleeps and becomes more lively as the sunsets. From good that is useful to the ones that are for keepsakes, aplenty is here at your disposal waiting to be taken away at a great price.
Best Time to visit:
Nighttime is the best time as the market is bustling with crowds.
How to reach:
From the Maharajalela station, the monorail stops at the southern end of Petaling Street. Alternatively, MRT from KLCC or KL Sentral to Pasar Seni, Central Market can also be opted for. If you are at the Bukit Bintang, a 15-minute walk would be ideal.
Top Attraction:
Petaling Street, offering a variety of items from clothing to furniture to everything under the sun.
Interesting Facts:
The Petaling Street and Old town of Kuala Lumpur is now called the China Town.
Where To Stay:
Pacific Express Hotel Central Market, SEASON Point Hotel, The 5 Elements Hotel are some of the popular places where you can stay.
Things to do:
Buy Souvenirs, visit the series of temples and enjoy the heritage walk.
4. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park:
With an increasing desire and need for a sustainable environment, Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is a major contributor. House to about 3000 species of birds, the Bird Park is a delight for fervid nature lovers. The park is divided into 4 zones, where each zone has a different category of birds depending upon their flight and breeding patterns.
Best Time to visit:
The park is open between 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; however, the best time is during the bird show that you will thoroughly enjoy. The show is held each day at 12:30 and then at 3:30 p.m.
How to reach:
You can travel by bus from anywhere in the city. Other than that, you can opt for KTM Commuter Train, and get down near the KTM Old Railway KL Station, to walk to the Bird Park. Furthermore, taxis that go by the meter can be also be opted for.
Top Attraction:
Some vulnerable species such as African Grey Parrots, Milky Stork, Emus, and Red Lorry can be easily spotted here. Bird Show is something that is worth watching.
Interesting Facts:
It is the world largest free-flight aviary
Where To Stay:
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Kuala Lumpur, and Hornbill Restaurant and Cafe are some superb places you may opt to stay at.
Things to do:
Learn about how the birds are fed visit the natural aviary located in the park.
Suggested Tour: Birds Park Day Ticket and 1 Way Transfer
5. Shri Mahamariamman Temple:
Vibrancy at its peak along with decor galore, this temple is worth a visit not just for religious purposes but for viewing the beauty. At this temple which depicts the South Indian Goddess Parvati, there are other Gods and Goddesses here. One part is devoted to Lord Murugan, the other to Lord Ganesha and the last one to Goddess Laxmi. The landscape around the temple is also very beautiful and a stroll here would fill you with an equal amount of positivity.
Best Time to visit:
The temple is open Monday to Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Friday it is open until 9:30 p.m. On Saturday the temple closes at 9:00 pm. with same opening hours
How to reach:
From the Maharajalela station, the monorail stops at the southern end of Petaling Street. Alternatively, MRT from KLCC or KL Sentral to Pasar Seni, Central Market can also be opted for. If you are at the Bukit Bintang, a 15-minute walk would be ideal.
Top Attraction:
The decoration of the temple and the annual festivals of Thaipusam and Deepavali are wonderful.
Interesting Facts:
This is the only Hindu Temple in the City that was reconstructed in 1920 and the completion of which was observed in 1968. The earlier version of the temple was only for K. Thamboosamy Pillai who worshipped privately in 1873.
Where To Stay:
Impiana KLCC Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Travelodge City Center, Hotel Transit KL, and a series of more places that you may choose according to your budget.
Things to do:
Observe the deities and Gods. The architecture of the temple is simply outstanding and deserves your praise.
6. Negara National zoo:
The open Zoo concept can be seen here at the Negara National Zoo in Kuala Lumpur. This gives the animals the best space to grow as the natural environment is absolutely mimicked well. The emancipation to the animals can be felt when you are there as the ambiance breeds a lot of positivity at this zoo. Not many places houses aquatic and jungle animals together, unlike this zoo that has a variety of fish, and other wild animals
Best Time to visit:
The best time is between 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. as the animals are seen performing during these hours.
How to reach:
Choose what suits you, as a taxi, private cab, Shuttle, Town Car and Train all can drop right outside the place.
Top Attraction:
Panda, Teddy Bears, Sea lions and numerous other animals will thrill the children.
Interesting Facts:
It was inaugurated by the country’s first Prime Minister in 1963.
Where To Stay:
City Village guest house, Senyum Zoo Negara, 1709 Second Homestay and many other options that are mostly budgeted and very beautifully done.
Things to do:
Enjoy a picnic while you admire the performing animals during the show that is hosted each day.
7. Butterfly park:
Aspire to be amongst some of the most colorful and bright insects? Insects freak you, but these are some admirable insects that we call Butterfly would please you instead. Yes, KL houses a place called the Butterfly Zoo. So be ready to comprehend how they breed, what they feed on and how does the management maintains the park with creatures as fragile as Butterfly!
Best Time to visit:
The park is open between 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How to reach:
The cheapest way to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) to Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is to bus which costs RM 12 and takes 1h 27m.
Top Attraction:
The colorful butterfly and the lovely flowers on the nectar of which they feed.
Interesting Facts:
One of the largest houses for butterflies and species of flowers in the world.
Where To Stay:
Hilton, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral.
Things to do:
Visit the museum that has a collection of insects along with some live insects too.
8. Batu Caves:
Kuala Lumpur has a blend of cultures and for the Tamil Hindus of the city, the Batu Caves are a place where they seek a religious feel. These are natural limestone caves which are pilgrimage for many tourists especially from the south of India. Here you can see many monkeys and other fauna and flora that make the place worth exploring.
Best Time to visit:
The best months are between December to February.
How to reach:
On the KL Sentral Railway Station, Take platform number 3 and get down at the 8th station, which is Batu Caves.
Top Attraction:
The limestone caves are beautiful and indeed the cool effect they have is something to look forward to.
Interesting Facts:
The caves are a natural formation and were only discovered in 1878 after which they were refined.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Rich Baliz, Batu Caves Hotel, and numerous OYO Hotels are there for your comfortable stay.
Things to do:
Trek your way as over 160 treks are available. Choose your intensity according to your experience and go trekking.
9. Jalan Alor-Street food:
When the night is young and you are all enthusiastic about exploring the real Kuala Lumpur, you will be most likely directed to Jalan Alor. This is where you can explore and observe the real local things and people. From the variety of Asian cuisines on the street, and some drinks, the shopping sprees become all the more exciting. The place is super crowded so be ready for some shoulder-rubbing in the market.
Best Time to visit:
Night hours are best to enjoy the crowds and some great food
How to reach:
It is located behind the Jalan Bukit Bintang and a short walk away from Changkat Bukit Bintang, so walk your way.
Top Attraction:
The crowds and the local delicacies are waiting to be explored.
Interesting Facts:
The market is open all night.
Where To Stay:
DengaBa Hostel, Apple Hostel, and host of OYO Hotels are there to choose your stay from.
Things to do:
Shopping, eating, clubbing, and having some no routine time is what you may indulge in when here.
10. National Mosque of Malaysia:
Picturesque setting and facade of some ornamental grass, the Mosque is a large area sprawled in about 13 acres. The building has a Minaret that is about 16 meters in height and displays a traditional structure of independent Malaysia. The place has a main prayer hall and 48 domes around it.
Best Time to visit:
The place is open from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
How to reach:
The best way to reach the National Mosque of Malaysia from the airport is through a train which takes 52 min and costs RM 40 – RM 70. Alternatively, you can take a bus that costs RM 12 and takes 1h 23m.
Top Attraction:
The 73-meter high minaret is a unique feature of this mosque and can be seen from a distance.
Interesting Facts:
About 15000 people can be accommodated in this mosque at the same time.
Where To Stay:
Pacific Express Hotel Central Market, Prescott Hotel Kuala Lumpur and many other luxury places.
Things to do:
Biking trail, Horseback riding, Gondola Cruises and a lot more activities are there for an incredible day.
11. Kidzania:
When kids are accompanying you on a holiday in Kuala Lumpur, this place would be a treat for them. The experience of being into every profession and treating them like adults is sheer fun for the kids and delight for you as a parent. Believe it or not, the place will always remain a part close to your kid’s heart.
Best Time to visit:
The place is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every day, except Wednesday.
How to reach:
The quickest way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Kidzania is by taking a taxi which costs RM 21 – RM 26 and takes 12 min. A direct train departing from Muzium Negara and arriving at Mutiara Damansara. Services depart every 10 minutes can also be taken.
Top Attraction:
The concept in itself is something worth being a part of.
Interesting Facts:
It is interactive learning and more like education for the kids.
Where To Stay:
Proper Suites@Empire Damansara, Royale Chulan Damansara and many more places are there. All you have to do is choose according to your budget
Things to do:
Indulge into trying what profession your kids like and analyze the same as the kid grows up.
12. Bukit Gambang Water park:
Playing in the water enhances the thrill of every destination and in Kuala Lumpur, this place would entice you to be here. You can splash at this epitome of the fun world. At the Bukit Gambang Water Park, the number of rides would surprise you and the extent of toughness would make you challenge or back out from taking them. Make the most of your decision as the time cannot be turned back.
Best Time to visit:
Sunny days are best so you can travel in the summer months to this place, that is between March to September.
How to reach:
Take the Bus, or train to reach this place or you may also drive on your way which will cost you RM-40 -RM 65.
Top Attraction:
Penguin Island, Treetop Hill, 6 lane-Racer are some attractions you would want to explore.
Interesting Facts:
This is the country’s longest, largest and highest water park.
Where To Stay:
Regalia Suites, Hilton Garden Inn Kuala Lumpur, Furama Bukit Bintang, and Ohana Kuala Lumpur will be worth your money.
Things to do:
Enjoy the intense rides and easy ones too to make the most of your watery day.
13. Tambun Theme Park:
The phrase ‘Under one roof’ is brought to reality at this Theme park that is a complete family holiday destination. From having activities of thrill to eco-adventure to very luxurious accommodation, the place has it all. Here you can get to know the history of Tin Mining along with amusement parks that are in abundance at this destination.
Best Time to visit:
If you are visiting then it is open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; however, if you are staying there, you are open to enjoy the night amusement activities too.
How to reach:
The place is about 2 hours from KL, so you need to drive or take a cab to be here.
Top Attraction:
Sunway Lost World of Tambum, Lost world Hot Springs & Night Park and Gunung Lang Recreational Park.
Interesting Facts:
The place has alluring limestone features of 400 million years of age and seven amazing attraction parks.
Where To Stay:
Royale Chulan, Within the premises of the park, or anywhere in KL.
Things to do:
Rope Climbing, Flying Fox, explore the tropical forest and binge on activities day and night.
14. Genting Highlands:
Once at these highlands, you would exclaim out of joy! There is everything here, from the shopping places to the elite casinos where you can splurge and have a time of your life. This town is anything but quaint as it is activities aplenty and there is no chance that you get even one dull moment at this amazing town of Genting.
Best Time to visit:
The best time to visit is between 12:00 to 12:00 pm.
How to reach:
You can travel by air, or take a one-hour car ride to Genting from Kuala Lumpur.
Top Attraction:
Chin Swee Caves Temples, Genting Casino, Skytopolis Indoor and lots more to explore.
Interesting Facts:
It is set within a100 million-year-old rainforest.
Where To Stay:
Grand Ion Delemen Hotel, Theme Park Hotel, First World Hotel and many others.
Things to do:
Take the copper express for a mini-tour, a 10 min cable car to have an overview of the Genting Highland or hop on the Sky Gondola to get some fresh breath of the city.
15. i-City Theme Park:
Digital lights have widespread use, but a distinguished use can be seen here where you will be awe-struck with the perfect figures of fauna that the lights can create. Other than that, the presence of water rides would also enthuse you to be here and re-visit the place, especially if you are with kids and family.
Best Time to visit:
The park is functional from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How to reach:
You can use the bus route or can also travel by privately driven car as there is ample parking space.
Top Attraction:
The wax museum, the -8 degree snow walk, and numerous water-themed rides.
Interesting Facts:
The place offers free tubes for everyone, and it is rated as the top 25 places for entertainment by the CNN.
Where To Stay:
Best Western i-City Shah Alam, i-City, i-Soho and many other places nearby that offer a great place to stay.
Things to do:
You can feel like the celebrity by being on the red carpet or can snow walk as this place is activity galore.
16. Dinner in the Sky:
Great food is always a highlight of any vacation and holiday, and if that meal is served to you amongst the clouds, it’s icing on the cake. You are literally on cloud 9 while you are having some sumptuous food. Some delectable dishes are served to you right on the sky where a large table is laid and you get to taste some yummy delicious food.
Best Time to visit:
The slot for Dinner is available at 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
How to reach:
Use the Monorail to reach Jalan Alor from where you can walk to Bukit Bintang street.
Top Attraction:
Delectable food with hanging table and waiters and waitresses serving you in the sky.
Interesting Facts:
This is the first dinner in the sky place in South East Asia.
Where To Stay:
WOLO KL, The KL Journal Hotel, and numerous OYO hotels are there.
Things to do:
Your fear of heights would be curbed as you sit an eat and finally get relaxed.
17. Maya Falls:
The route to Maya Fall is far more mesmerizing than the falls itself. Covered by forest, these falls cascade from a height of about 60 meters. This gushing sound of the water fills your spirit with a lot of enthusiasm and some rejuvenation too. Restore yourself back and go back from the vacations mighty strong!
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Best Time to visit:
The falls are open for visitors from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How to reach:
You can drive or take a bus to reach the Selangor Forest. From here the trek begins.
Top Attraction:
The trek amidst the dewy forest is wonderful.
Interesting Facts:
The falls are also known as Lata Medang.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur and many more places that offer a comfortable stay.
Things to do:
Sit by the waterfall or if you like some activity, take a hiking trail in the nearby areas to explore the forest.
18. Tower Base Jumping:
If you are an adrenaline junkie then the tower base jump would be quintessential for the success of your vacation in Kuala Lumpur. The height of 431 meters from the Menara Tower is apt for this Tower Base Jump. All you have to do is to gear up and garner some courage to jump from this height and feel the heart pound in and out.
Best Time to visit:
It is open between 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and is four-day event in September.
How to reach:
Take the ‘Go KL City Bus’. It is a Purple Line Bus that stops at the KL Tower. Other way is to board the Kelana Jaya Line LRT that will drop you to the Dang Wangi station; from here you may walk to the Menara Tower which is minutes away.
Top Attraction:
The free fall and the canopy made by the stellar jumpers.
Interesting Facts:
The fall is free and the festival involves a lot of air gymnastics by professionals which are done after a lot of training.
Where To Stay:
Pacific Regency Hotel Suites, Ramada Suites By Wyndham KLCC and Oasis Suites Kuala Lumpur are some luxurious stays.
Things to do:
After the Jump, and clicking pictures from the deck, you may want to eat some great food at the Menara Tower.
19. Istana Negara:
Once a place for the former regal of Malaysia, this place is now deemed a Royal museum as the kings shifted to a new place. The magnificent entrance of this place is absolutely wondrous with minarets erected on either side acting as the guard of the palace. The dome structure reflects the Islamic dominance of the former rulers.
Best Time to visit:
It is open between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How to reach:
Travel via train Jalan Istana which takes 50 min and costs RM 40 – RM 70. Alternatively, you can travel by bus costing about RM 12 and takes 1h 21m.
Top Attraction:
The changing of guards is done in a ceremony which is worth the watch.
Interesting Facts:
It is an official residence of Yang di-Pertuan.
Where To Stay:
Prescott Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Easy Hotel KL Sentral, Royce Hotel are some popular places to stay around this place.
Things to do:
After visiting the regal rooms of the palace, you may take a stroll at the Petaling street and enjoy the splurge
20. Perdana Botanical Garden:
If you are looking for some respite and want to be away from the concrete city and the urban development, this place is perhaps what will soothe your mind. You will feel encompassed with an alleviated thought that you will begin to enjoy gradually. The coolness of the plants and the lake around will help you regain the rhythm of your mind and body. Be ready to restart your next day and indulge in worldly affairs once again.
Best Time to visit:
It is open every day of the week between 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How to reach:
A few buses numbered B115, B112, and B101 all are routed to this lovely place. Another option is to take the KTM Komuter train to the Old Kuala Lumpur station, from where one can walk to this destination.
Top Attraction:
Stonehenge Replica is one of the top attractions.
Interesting Facts:
The park is available for a visit for free.
Where To Stay:
Pacific Express Hotel Central Market, Prescott Hotel Kuala Lumpur Sentral, Le Meridian KL are some of the super luxurious places which would enhance your experience
Things to do:
Enjoy the views and the lush greenery around you.
21. National Monument:
Something that is given the sign of being ‘National’ will certainly be something of pride for the nation. This monument, made in copper commemorates the sacrifice of the warriors in the second world war. Thus, its significance comes from this very fact. It is located on the southern tip of the Lake Gardens and displays Malay history, geography, culture and its crafts.
Best Time to visit:
It is open between 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How to reach:
From the Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) take a train to the National Museum which takes about 42 minutes. Alternatively, a bus ride can be also be taken. It will take cost RM 12 and will take 1h 6m.
Top Attraction:
It is the tallest copper structure.
Interesting Facts:
Each year the Prime Minister comes to pay homage to the warriors of the second world war.
Where To Stay:
Prescott Hotel Kuala Lumpur Sentral, Le Meridian Kuala Lumpur.
Things to do:
Visit the art Gallery and tour the three stories.
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A rich history and an enchanting landscape, Kuala Lumpur is most certainly one of the best places to chose for a family holiday, romantic getaway, or simply head out alone for that solo trip, waiting to be ticked on the bucket list. Being here you will be able to see a blend of everything, from the elite urban.