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With its modern skyscrapers, historic colonial buildings, natural attractions, and gastronomic delights, Kuala Lumpur has been a favorite destination in Southeast Asia. The capital city of Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, with lots of different ethnics living here including Malays, Chinese, and Indian.

Petronas Twin Towers, one of the highest and the most famous towers in the world, is located in Kuala Lumpur. Many colourful temples, mosques, and shrines also pepper the city. Aside from its notable landmarks, Kuala Lumpur is well-known as a shopping paradise. From its sprawling shopping malls like Pavilion KL where you can buy designer items to Central Market for local handicrafts, you’ll definitely have a good time trying to find the best souvenir you can take home from Kuala Lumpur.

Fast Facts

Languages: Malay, Indonesian, English

Currency: Malaysian Ringgit

How to Get There

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is located in Selangor. It has two main areas: KLIA Main and KLIA LCCT. KLIA LCCT is a special airport that serves low cost carrier airlines like AirAsia. The distance between KLIA and Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral) is about 59 kilometres or around one hour drive. Most travelers choose bus or train to get to KL Sentral.

Travelling by bus is the cheapest way to get to Kuala Lumpur from the airport. Fares start from MYR 10 (adult) and MYR 6 (children) one-way. You can also take the KLIA Express to get to the city. It costs around MYR 35 (adult) and MYR 15 (children) one-way.

Renting a minibus is the alternate option if you visit Kuala Lumpur in a group. This transportation can carry up to seven passengers. Or you can also hire a taxi or get an airport transfer from the airport.

Getting Around in Kuala Lumpur

It is easy to access and travel all over the city because Kuala Lumpur has a well-maintained and integrated public transportation. The Light Rail Transit (LRT) is the cheapest and fastest public transportation in Kuala Lumpur. It arrives every 5 minutes in each station. But you can travel around for free by Go KL Bus.

If you prefer to take a taxi, you can easily find them in major areas of Kuala Lumpur. There are two types of taxis: metered taxis and non-metered taxis. KTM Komuter is a train frequently used by suburban residences who live in outer part of Kuala Lumpur. This is the fastest transportation for commuters to get to KL Sentral.

Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

Attracting thousands of visitors per year, there are many things to see and do when in Kuala Lumpur. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Petronas Towers. Considered the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004, Petronas Twin Towers are 451 metres tall. It features Suria KLCC, the biggest retail centre in Kuala Lumpur. In 41st and 42nd floor, there is a Skybridge where visitors can observe the stunning views of Kuala Lumpur. Below the building, there is the 17 acres KLCC Park. The park has jogging and walking paths, a fountain with incorporated light show, wading pools and a children's playground.

Another popular structure is the Kuala Lumpur Tower. It is known as the second highest tower in Kuala Lumpur. The building features an antenna that reaches 421 metres tall. Visitors can see breathtaking sunset and unforgettable night view from the top of Kuala Lumpur Tower.

Kuala Lumpur also has a lot of popular shopping destinations. One of the most popular is Bukit Bintang. It has various collections like shoes, clothes, and other accessories. In Bukit Bintang, you can also taste Malay, Chinese and Western delicacies. Shoppers can also go to Little India, where they can find various shops selling everything from traditional Indian goods such as saris, flower garlands, spices and Bollywood music. Since its renovation, Little India has turned into one of KL’s trademark tourist hot spots. It’s easy to access Little India since its location is near KL Sentral station by 10 minutes drive.

On the other hand, you should visit Central Market if you are an art and craft aficionado. Central Market is one of the oldest buildings in Kuala Lumpur, built in 1880. It revamped as a huge gifts emporium, the Art Deco wet market. It is also known as a one-stop centre for handicrafts.

For nature lovers, there are several interesting sites to explore. KL Bird Park has 3,000 birds varying from 200 different species. It is arguably the largest walk-in free-flight aviary in the world. Located in Jl. Cendrawasih, Taman Tasik Perdana,it is around five minutes drive from KL Sentral.

Batu Caves, on the other hand, is a sacred place for the Hindus in Malaysia. They consist of three main caves and a number of smaller ones. The caves are made of limestone, 400 meters long and 100 metres high. This attractions is situated 13 kilometres north of Kuala Lumpur. You can use KTM Komuter from KL Sentral for 15 minutes to go to Batu Caves.

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Each neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur is distinct and choosing your accommodation will depend on what you want to do during your stay, your budget, and your personality. For those who love the nightlife as well as shopping, Bukit Bintang is at the center of it all. There are numerous shopping malls, hawker stalls, and restaurants found in this side of Kuala Lumpur. Another location for those who love to indulge in retail therapy is the KLCC area. In addition, it’s also a family-friendly neighbourhood. Some of the spots perfect to bring your kids include the KLCC park, Aquaria KLCC, and Alive KL. This Petrona Twin Towers is also located here.

Budget travelers, on the other hand, will not only love the affordable accommodations in Chinatown but also the various historic and cultural attractions they can visit in this neighbourhood. But if you want to be in a more accessible location, then staying at KL Central area is a good choice.

Nightlife in Kuala Lumpur

An exciting nightlife awaits the revellers and even those looking for a more chill vibe. From swanky rooftop bars in one of the hotels in Kuala Lumpur to lively watering holes, there are many exciting places to go to in the city at night.

One of the famous party venues include Changkat Bukit Bintang. Aside from the various bars and nightclubs, it’s also in proximity to the city’s top attractions like Pavilion KL. So if you fancy a nightcap after a whole day of shopping, then be sure to check out the place. But if you’re up for a no frills setting, then Jalan Alor and Petaling street should be more up your alley.

Kuala Lumpur Travel Tips