Feel the heady blend of Islamic heritage, colonial history and modernity that defines this central Malaysian city, from show-stopping skyscrapers to Hindu shrines and temples.
From delicious street food to sky-soaring towers, Kuala Lumpur is a study in contrasts. Yet, instead of feeling haphazardly thrown together throughout the centuries, the city stands as a testament to the thoughtful coexistence of cultural influences, architectural marvels and a modern city landscape. Visit Kuala Lumpur to feel the pulse of a city that knows where it has been and welcomes the future.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
It’s hard to miss the 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, rising majestically from the city skyline and symbolising Malaysia’s economic prowess on the global stage. Standing nearly 452 metres (1,500 feet) tall, the towers were designed as the headquarters of Petronas, the national oil and gas company. Buy tickets for the Skybridge on the 41st floor, from which you can look down 170 metres (557 feet) from a glass-walled corridor connecting the two towers. From there, take the lift to the observation deck on the 86th floor, 370 metres (1,213 feet) above the city.
As an alternative, or add-on, to the Petronas Towers, consider visiting the revolving restaurant, open-air sky deck and observation deck of the Menara KL, which sits at the top of Bukit Nanas. At 421 metres (1,381 feet) tall, the tower provides the best city views.
Next door to the towers, visit the onion-domed Sultan Abdul Samad Building, a striking example of colonial architecture that pays homage to the city’s historical legacy under British rule. Admire the Mogul and Moorish styles of the graceful building, set where the Gombak and Klang rivers join. Until the National Mosque, or Masjid Negara, opened in 1965, this was the city’s centre of Islamic worship. Dress modestly for your visit inside or on the grounds and gardens outside prayer times.
Take some time to soak up local life in Merdeka Square, or Independence Square, where Malaysia’s flag was first raised in 1957. Nearby, the Central Market is a bustling hub where you can shop for traditional art and crafts, including batik, pewter products and textiles. Continue your search for local goods, as well as high-end items, at upscale shopping centres such as the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Suria KLCC.
Kuala Lumpur’s history and culture
Don’t miss the Batu Caves for their unique blend of natural beauty and religious devotion. The limestone caves, which are adorned by Hindu temples and fronted by a monumental statue of Hindu deity Lord Murugan, attract pilgrims and tourists who come to climb the 272 stairs to the Temple Cave. During the Thaipusam Festival, devotees carry kavadis, or elaborate ceremonial structures, as offerings of penance and gratitude.
Celebrate the city’s dedication to the arts at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre and Istana Budaya, which offer Malaysian dance performances, music concerts and theatre productions throughout the year.
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, set in a building that is as striking as the collection that lies within. Browse scale models of significant Islamic buildings, carpets, jewellery, ceramics and more, including the relocated 19th-century, gold-leafed Damascus Room.
Dining and nightlife in Kuala Lumpur
For dazzling nightlife, head to Bukit Bintang to find culinary delights, rooftop bars and dance clubs, where you can linger into the late hours.
Sample street food, and shop for bargains on everything from textiles to electronics, in the busy Chinatown district. Then, fuel up on nasi lemak and satayat the street food markets at Jalan Alor and Petaling Street. The Petronas Towers are a good option for fine dining.
Getting around Kuala Lumpur
Fly into Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 45 kilometres (28 miles) south of the city centre. The city operates a reliable public transit system, which includes buses, light-rail commuter trains and a monorail.
