26 Best Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur - Updated 2024

Paolo
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 7 min read
26 Best Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur - Updated 2024

Kuala Lumpur is not just the federal capital of Malaysia; it’s also the country’s largest city. Who would’ve thought that a quaint tin-mining village would turn into a vibrant metropolis filled with architectural gems and historical and natural wonders? With its mixture of different cultures, Kuala Lumpur promises nothing but unforgettable moments for travelers from all over the world. Here are some of the most fulfilling activities you can try in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

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From transportation tips to medical essentials and everything in between, the Kuala Lumpur local guides share all the must-know information to help you plan your trip.

1. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers and Menara KL Tower

Petronas Twin Towers in 2004
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user kingofhiking of F... used under CC BY 2.0

Located in the city centre are two 452-meter-tall buildings that will leave you in awe. The world-famous Petronas Twin Towers are beloved for not only their size, but for their unique mix of modern and Islamic architecture. If taking pictures from the outside is not enough, the towers are open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday. Once inside, make your way to the 58-metre-long Sky Bridge for a breathtaking view of the metropolis.

Another landmark worth seeing is Menara KL Tower, which is located just above the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. It stands at 421 meters, making it the tallest telecommunication tower in Southeast Asia. Much like the Petronas, it has a viewing deck offering amazing views of Bukit Nanas and the city centre. Visit the viewing deck at night to see the enchanting lights of the skyscrapers.

Petronas Twin Towers

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: from 18 USD (adults); 7 USD (kids)

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Closed on Mondays and on Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Aidiladha

Contact: +603-2331-8080

Website: Petronas Twin Towers

Menara KL Tower

Address: Jalan P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: from 12 USD (adults); 7 USD (kids)

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM

Contact: +60-3-2020-5444

Website: Menara KL Tower

Tip from Content Creator

Petronas Twin Towers
Photo and video of Petronas Twin Towers shared by content creator from Singapore, Shella Ramos Guzman.
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2. Meet the colorful feathered wonders of KL Bird Park

KL Bird Park inside
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ural Anonymous used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Established in 1991, the 200-acre KL Bird Park houses over 3,000 local and imported birds. Go for a walk through the aviary and see the winged creatures and rich plant life up-close. Some of the birds you will see here include Brahminy kites, macaws, flamingos, pigeons, and hornbills, all of which come in different colors. Learn more about them when you catch the bird shows and feeding programs. There’s also a refreshment area where you can eat and drink after exploring the park. Be extra careful when you’re walking around after rainfall, some parts may be slippery.

KL Bird Park

Address: 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: from 15 USD (adults); 10 USD (kids)

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Contact: +60-3-2272-1010

Website: KL Bird Park

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3. Swim, slide, and ride at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Sunway Lagoon in Malaysia!
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Qasim A.Rasool used under CC BY 2.0

Fun-filled wet and dry activities await you 15 kilometers outside of the city center. Sunway Lagoon is a theme park for the whole family. When you reach the Water Park, you can try out the different twirling slides or go surfing or body boarding through the artificial waves. The kids will certainly enjoy Little Zimbabwe, which looks exactly like an African village.

At the Amusement Park, continue the exhilarating moments in the Grand Canyon River Rapids. It’s where you will sit in a tube and explore the wavy river, which is 260-meters-long. If you’re in the mood for some spooks, then Scream Park is the place for you. The Ghostbusters Adventure-Live will take you to New York’s most haunted places and the headquarters of the legendary busters. Slimer is waiting for you as well.

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Address: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Price: from 38 USD (adults 13 years old and above); 31 USD (kids 12 years old and below and senior citizens 60 years and above)

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

Contact: +60 3-2272-1010

Website: Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

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4. See hundreds of marine species at Aquaria KLCC

A4730
Source: Photo by Flickr user SAM Cheong used under CC BY-SA 2.0

On the Concourse Level of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, a mesmerizing underwater world awaits. The 60,000-square-foot Aquaria KLCC is considered to be the world’s largest aquarium, and is comprised of over 150 species of marine creatures. One of its most famous attractions is the transparent tunnel, which is 90 meters long. As you walk through the tunnel, get ready to be amazed by the sight of tiger sharks, seahorses, huge stingrays, and more. Make your experience even more memorable by witnessing the feeding program done by a team of professionals. At the DNA Touch Pool, you will have an opportunity to put live corals on your hands.

Aquaria KLCC

Address: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur City, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: from 14 USD (adults); 12 USD (kids); 10 USD (senior citizens)

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Contact: +603-2333-1888

Website: Aquaria KLCC

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Kuala Lumpur Tour Guide

Reka Luxshmi

Reka Luxshmi

Hello, I'm Reka, a HR professional with a master's in Business Administration who's passionate about exploring new places and savoring local cuisines. Recently licensed as a tour guide in Malaysia, I'm eager to showcase the beauty of my country, its vibrant culture, and diverse culinary delights. While I remain active in the corporate world, guiding offers me a fulfilling escape. I specialize i... Read more

Tours by Reka

Kuala Lumpur Tour Guide

Shazriza Rais

Shazriza Rais

Hey there! I'm Shaz, your go-to tour guide for exploring the best of Malaysia. Born and raised in this vibrant country, I've got a deep passion for sharing its wonders with travelers from all walks of life. I've been in the game for 7 awesome years, leading tours across Malaysia's hottest spots like Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang, and Langkawi. Whether you're a solo adventurer or a big family cr... Read more

Tours by Shazriza

Kuala Lumpur Tour Guide

Kovin Sivanasvaran

Kovin Sivanasvaran

I am a geologist graduate with a passion in eco-adventure tourism. I have 10 years experience in guiding as I started from a young age. I am currently running my own tour company called Mowgli Venture where I bring guest out of their comfort zones to enjoy nature. My passion project would be waterfall exploring and cliff jumping. My long term goal is to write a book of 1000 waterfalls in Malays... Read more

Tours by Kovin

5. Go for a walk at KLCC Park

KLCC Park
Source: Photo by Flickr user JoohyunLee used under CC BY 2.0

If you want a break from Kuala Lumpur’s bustling atmosphere, then put on your walking shoes and go for a walk through KLCC Park. The 50-acre spot features thousands of trees and plants from different species. There’s a playground for the kids and a jogging area for those who want to exercise peacefully. In the afternoon and evening, you can watch the awe-inspiring Lake Symphony, a show featuring harmonic movements between lights and the water fountains. The end of the northern side of the park is where you will see the Masjid As Syakirin Mosque. Let the mosque’s brilliant architecture astound you while you take in the calm atmosphere.

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6. Explore the Batu Caves

Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) Impressive Buddha Statue of Batu Caves Temple1
Source: Photo by Flickr user Güldem Üstün used under CC BY 2.0

The Batu Caves remain to be a significant Hindu site in Malaysia. It has limestone features believed to be 400 million years old and a huge Hindu statue guarding the entrance. There are three main caves, namely The Cathedral Cave (free admission), Art Gallery (around 3 USD for foreigners and 2 USD for locals), and Dark Cave (tour rates seen below). The Cathedral Cave houses several shrines while the Art Gallery contains colorful paintings and sculptures of deities. The Dark Cave is comprised of magnificent rock formations and different types of exotic insects, which are perfect for the adventurous travelers.

When you visit during the Thaipusam season – a Hindu festival – you will see thousands of devotees and witness certain religious practices. Climbing the 272 steps may be a bit tiring, but when you reach the top, prepare to be stunned by the city view. Monkeys can also be seen around the cave, and some of them may be wild. They won’t harm you, but they tend to grab bags and food, so always watch your belongings. The best time to visit Batu Caves is during the early morning to avoid the scorching heat.

Batu Caves

Address: 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia

Price: Free

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM

Contact: +60-1-300-88-5050

Website: Batu Caves

Dark Cave

Address: Dark Cave Conservation Site Temple Complex, 68100,, Batu Caves, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia

Price: from 18 USD for Adventour Tour (only for 12 years old and above); 8 USD (adults); 6 USD (kids) for Educational Tour

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Duration: around 3 to 4 hours required for Adventure Tour; 45 minutes for Educational Tour

Contact: +60 3-6186-7011

Website: Dark Cave

Tip from tour guide

Reka

Reka
Kuala Lumpur

Sri Subramaniar temple, famously known as Batu Caves

The best time to visit Batu Caves (Sri Subramaniar Temple) is early morning or later in the evening when it's not so hot. Also please take into account the peak hour traffic in the morning, maybe from 7.30 am to 9.30 am and 4 pm till 7 pm on weekdays. On some prayer days, there may be heavy traffic going to Batu Caves. You can also opt to take the local KTM train which runs to Batu Caves from KL Sentral every hour. Do remember to check the schedule when you board the train. You can also opt to use the various e-hail cabs available.

Please note that you are required to remove your footwear when entering temples - you will be reminded through the many signages visible. Since this is a place of worship, do respect the rules and regulations as well as the dress code. For females, please be sure your skirt, dress, or shorts fall below your knees, otherwise, you will need to buy a cloth to be tied around your waist. For males, please also ensure that your shorts are not too short. Do wear comfortable walking shoes as the steps are steep. It's a beautiful experience when you get to the top.

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7. Please your taste buds during Ramadan

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

When Ramadan season arrives, Kuala Lumpur’s food culture is at its best. Food bazaars appear on street corners, each of which have a wide variety of affordable local, Chinese, Indian, and Middle Eastern delights. Satisfy your hunger by trying out popular dishes such as murtabak, otak-otak, popia, nasi biryani, and many more. 3:00 or 4:00 PM is the ideal time to go exploring, since the stalls have just opened and the dishes are still fresh.

You can check the schedule of Ramadan in Kuala Lumpur here.

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8. Shop and eat in Bukit Bintang and Chinatown

Central Market, Kuala Lumpur 02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jordiferrer used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A trip to Kuala Lumpur won’t be complete without a shopping spree. Make your way to the seven-storey Pavilion KL in Bukit Bintang and bring home items from some of the most well-known brands. The Couture Pavillion is for the high-end shoppers while the Fashion Avenue section offers less pricey products. Some of the brands you will find here include Bvlgari, Dolce and Gabana, Aesop, Armani, Gucci, and Jimmy Choo. Another highlight of Bukit Bintang is Jalan Alor, which is renowned for its Chinese restaurants and hawker stalls selling local street dishes. Absorb the lively vibes of the area as you taste the barbecue dishes, noodles, and many other delicacies.

In Chinatown, head to the Central Market to shop for Chinese, Malay, or Indian handicrafts. By buying from the local merchants, you will be supporting the city’s booming art scene. Batiks, carvings, sculptures, and paintings are some of the things you can purchase in the market. On the second floor, there are plenty of Asian restaurants for you to try. The Central Market is also famous for its Baroque-influenced design.

Pavilion KL

Address: 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Contact: +60 3-2118-8833

Website: Pavilion KL

Tip from tour guide

Reka

Reka
Kuala Lumpur

Central Market

Central Market was built as a wet market in 1888 by a Chinese Captain (Kapitan Tap Ah Loy). The market was built for the locals. As Kuala Lumpur grew into a big city, Central Market became more of an attraction where tourists and locals can get souvenirs, hand-printed clothes (Batik), local food items, desserts and snacks, and many more.

Central Market or CM is centrally located near Independence Square, The River of Life, Chinatown, and Little India. The best time to visit would be from 10am to 10pm daily. The building has air-conditioning, so people would go in to cool down after walking outside. Besides that, CM now has a brand new food court that caters to local and Western cuisines. But when you are in KL, you should try our local food.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

LuYi

LuYi
Malaysia

Central Market Central Market Central Market

Central Market in Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for tourists looking for a unique shopping experience. This indoor market, located in a stunning art-deco style building, features a wide range of local craft, textiles, and souvenirs. As you walk through the market, you'll find a variety of stalls selling everything from batik clothing and handicrafts to locally produced food. There are also numerous art galleries and cultural exhibits showcasing the best of Malaysian culture.

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9. Learn about Malaysia’s history at the National Museum

National museum, KL
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user [Unknown] used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Near the Lake Gardens is the National Museum, which will enlighten you about Malaysia’s eventful history and diverse culture. The museum resembles a traditional house, and it has two floors. On the first floor, you will see prehistoric galleries as well as dioramas showing traditional weddings, and fishing and farming activities. The second floor features relics from the Colonial Era such as weapons and musical instruments. Let the free tours give you a deeper understanding of the exhibits. For the English-language tours, they take place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11:00 AM. The French-language tours happen every Thursdays at 9:00 and 12:00 AM.

National Museum

Address: Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, Tasik Perdana, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: Free

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Contact: +60-3-2267-1111

Website: National Museum

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10. Be mesmerized by Sri Maha Mariamman and Thean Hou Temples

The six-tiered Thean Hou Temple is recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s largest temples. Built in honor of the goddess who protected fishermen, the site is decorated with gorgeous Buddhist images and provides a nice view of the skyline. The gorgeous statue of Thean Hou is accompanied by the equally-stunning sculptures of the Goddess of Mercy and the Goddess of the Waterfront. As you walk further into the temple, you will see intricate paintings depicting famous Chinese legends.

Sri Maha MariammanTemple was built in 1873, dedicated to the South Indian goddess. Each tier of the temple has statues of different deities, all of which are intrically-colored. Inside, there are wall paintings and more statues for you to see. The architecture of the temple is so complex you will certainly have many pictures on your camera.

Thean Hou Temple

Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: Free

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Contact: +60-3-2274-7088

Website: Thean Hou Temple

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

Address: Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Price: Free

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Contact: +603-2078-3467

Website: Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

Tip from tour guide

Reka

Reka
Kuala Lumpur

Mariamman Temple was founded by K. Thamboosamy Pillai, the same founder of Batu Caves Murugan temple. Initially, this temple was the private or rather family shrine of K. Thamboosamy Pillai. In the 1920s it was opened to the public. This is the oldest functioning Hindu temple in Malaysia. If you visit here on Friday evenings, you will see many devotees as Friday is also an auspicious day for us. A big festival celebrated here is Thaipusam, where devotees would throng to the temple in the wee hours of the morning to join the procession to Batu Caves following the Muruga's silver chariot. You will experience the Hindu culture when you visit during Thaipusam. You can visit the temple from 6am to 1pm, and again from 4pm to 8:30pm.

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11. See extensive Islamic arts at Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Explore one of the most extensive collections of Southeast Asia’s Islamic arts in this 322,917.3-square-feet (30,000-square-meter) center. It’s nestled in the gorgeous 227-acre (92-hectare) Lake Garden near the National Mosque and National Planetarium. The charming building boasts an eye-catching blue dome, ceilings with beautiful Islamic designs, and glass walls, allowing lots of natural lights in. Within, you’ll find more than 7,000 items, spanning 12 themes, including metalwork, Malay world, textiles, jewelry, and more. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is one of the most visited landmarks in the country.

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12. Delve into local history at Orang Asli Crafts Museum

Muzium Seni Kraf Orang Asli
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Renek78 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Learn about local history in Orang Asli Crafts Museum, perched on Malay-World Ethnology Museum’s first floor in the National Museum. Orang Asli is an 18-tribe aboriginal group that settled in Malaysian Peninsula’s rural areas. The diverse community, divided into three groups — Proto Malay, Senai, and the Negrito — are famous for their handicrafts and arts. And this venue is dedicated to displaying some of their outstanding creations for public appreciating. Admire the renowned ‘The Spirit of Lanjut’ made from nyirih batu wood and ‘King of the Apes’ made from cengal wood. Other items in this complex include musical instruments, native clothing, fishing traps, blowpipes, and more.

Orang Asli Crafts Museum

Address: Orang Asli Crafts Museum, Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: Orang Asli Crafts Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 0.5 USD

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13. Interact with 3D animations at Illusion 3D Art Museum

Whether you’re alone or with the family, Illusion 3D Art Museum is a must-experience. The high-tech venue is located on the third floor of Central Market Annexe, and it’s one of the most visited destinations in town. The spot boasts a rustic-inspired gallery, covering 6,400 square feet (594.6 square meters), housing over 36 hand-painted 3D arts by skilled artists. After exploring this section and taking many photos, you can head to the Augmented Reality division. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with 3D animations without the use of sophisticated add-ons. All the moments will be captured by a world-class camera, which you can view later in the photo booth.

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14. Learn about petroleum at Petrosains, The Discovery Centre

26 best things to do in kuala lumpur | learn about petroleum at petrosains, the discovery centre
Source: www.klook.com

Petrosains, The Discovery Centre, a 75,347.4-square-feet (7,000-square-meter) center committed to petroleum science, is situated on Petronas Twin Towers’ 5th floor. It seeks to present complex technology and science to the public in an entertaining manner. Within, you’ll find 11 exhibition spaces, including the famous Petrojaya, showcasing cartoon-shaped displays, explaining the roles and effect of petrochemicals in everyday life. The Exploration section is concerned with world-class techniques and equipment used in petroleum discovery. At the same time, Petroleum Information explains the petroleum industry in an easily digestible way.

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15. Discover the country’s police history at Royal Malaysia Police Museum

Royal Malaysian Police Museum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chongkian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This institution, founded in 1997, is dedicated to preserving peculiar vintage and present-day items that played significant roles in Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) from its debut to date. The museum is housed in a former police officer’s mess in Jalan Perdana. The artifacts span three exhibition spaces carefully arranged according to the eras. The initial section deals with policing during the early Malay sultanates, Dutch, and Portuguese colonial times before the arrival of the British. The second division is concerned with RMP transformation through the times, and the third gallery showcases information on the Malayan Emergency.

Royal Malaysia Police Museum

Address: 5, Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: Royal Malaysia Police Museum

Opening hours: Sat - Sun, Tue - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am – 12:30pm, 2:30pm – 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

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16. Explore Malaysian textiles at National Textiles Museum

2016 Kuala Lumpur, Narodowe Muzeum Włókiennictwa
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Marcin Konsek used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This extensive museum concerned with textile technology and process is nestled in a heritage structure, designed by Arthur Charles Alfred Norman in the late 19th century. The building, located in Merdeka Square, was open to the public in 2010 as the National Textiles Museum. The institution, spanning four exhibition areas, features textiles, accessories, and traditional clothing to see. You’ll find a section displaying items from prehistoric times, a division with charming accessories and pieces of jewelry made of plants, beads, copper, silver, gold, and more.

National Textiles Museum

Address: 26, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: National Textiles Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 0.5 USD

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17. Live your Instagram photo fantasy at Selfie Museum Kuala Lumpur

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

@samsungmalaysia brings you an unique experience at @selfiemuseumkl where you’re able to unleash your inspiration in our...

Posted by Selfie Museum Malaysia on Saturday, September 22, 2018

Instagram fans can’t miss this state-of-the-art museum launched by Samsung Galaxy. Selfie Museum, covering 7,000 square feet (650.3 square meters) of a structure in Fahrenheit 88, is all about the art of selfies. It features nine rooms with different themes such as ice creams, marshmallows, M&Ms, cakes, and more, where you can take Instagram-worthy photos. What’s more, you can enjoy complimentary Malaysian-inspired desserts such as Baskin Robbins ice cream, cupcakes, and even signature drinks before leaving.

Selfie Museum Kuala Lumpur

Address: Unit 2.28-2.40, Level 2, Fahrenheit88, 179, Bukit Bintang St, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: Selfie Museum Kuala Lumpur

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm

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18. Enjoy the cityscape panorama from Menara Kuala Lumpur

Menara Kuala Lumpur, a sky-high structure standing at 421 meters (1,381.2-feet), is the 7th-tallest telecommunication structure globally and the tallest in Southeast Asia. It was built to beautifully blend with its naturally influenced location — Bukit Nanas — Malaysia’s oldest forest reserve. The tower is recognized as a testament to the nation’s significant efforts to advance its technology. Within the building, you’ll find a lot of recreational amenities. Dine at the 360-degree revolving eatery with mesmerizing views. An aquarium, a mini zoo, and an amphitheater are also on site.

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19. Picnic at Merdeka Square

The Merdeka Square,KL Malaysia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user NHasan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Merdeka Square, also known as Independence Square, is a large landscaped parcel perched on Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Royal Selangor Club’s frontage. It’s recognized as the British empire’s colonial core and was once used as Selangor Club’s cricket field. The venue features a large lawn with a tall pole in the middle, displaying Malaysia’s flag. However, you can picnic in the green while enjoying views of the eye-catching surrounding streets and buildings. Additionally, an extensive shopping experience awaits you in the nearby Central Market.

Merdeka Square

Address: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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20. Have a quiet time at Bamboo Playhouse

Enjoy a peaceful time alone or with your lover in the Bamboo Playhouse, a charming public pavilion. The spot is tucked away on a lake in the middle of Perdana Botanical Gardens — one of the capital’s oldest parks in the city’s heart. Aside from the beauty, the structure made with bamboo is peculiar, as it’s rare to find modern buildings made with such material in the country. It features modular bamboo frames and 31 similar square-shaped decks of varying heights, completing an eye-catching figure. This place is frequented by locals and tourists alike and can’t be missed.

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21. See a variety of plants at Laman Perdana

Capturing moment in Kuala Lumpur Perdana Botanical Garden
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Carven Yong Jui Ming used under CC BY-SA 4.0

See various plant species as you enjoy the tropical rainforest ambiance in this gorgeous botanical garden. Laman Perdana, located in Heritage Park, was initially established as a recreational park. The venue, boasting many plants from Africa, including Moringas and Adansonias, was rehabilitated and transformed into a botanical garden. Despite being in the middle of a metropolis, walking through its majestic trees and plant collection feels like being in one of Africa’s tropical rainforests.

Laman Perdana

Address: Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: Laman Perdana

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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22. See myriads of beautiful sculptures at ASEAN Sculpture Garden

But Muchtar, Unity (1981), ASEAN Sculpture Garden, Singapore - 20110301
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user eGuide Travel used under CC BY 2.0

Admire the works of talented artists from Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore’s in this eye-catching sculpture garden. ASEAN Sculpture Garden, situated in Tub Abdul Razak Heritage Park, was launched in 1987 to celebrate the Association of Southeast Asian Nation’s (ASEAN) 20th anniversary. Within, you’ll find figures created out of bamboo, iron, marble, steel, glass, and wood with Malay and English illustration on each piece. Additionally, the place is quiet and relatively off the beaten path.

ASEAN Sculpture Garden

Address: Asean Sculpture Garden, Pesiaran Sultan Salahhudin, Taman Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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23. Discover the award-winning Pavilion Crystal Fountain

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Discover this award-winning fountain, a symbol of Malaysia’s cultural and racial diversity. It boasts three bowls, a testament of the nation’s cultures and races co-existing in peace and unity. The national flower —the Bloom of Hibiscus— signifies progression, passion, and opulence. Aside from its beauty and importance, Pavilion Crystal Fountain is located within the commercial complex in Bukit Bintang’s center, which made its debut in 2007. Here, you’ll find international and local retailers offering fashion items, electronic gadgets, food, and more.

Pavilion Crystal Fountain

Address: 168, Bukit Bintang St, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: Pavilion Crystal Fountainn

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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24. Hang out at Kolam Biru

View of Masjid Jamek Mosque and Kolam Biru in Kuala Lumpur
Source: Photo by Flickr user Marco Verch Profe... used under CC BY 2.0

Kolam Biru is a beautiful structure nestled on the confluence of rivers Sungai Klang and Sungai Gombak in the capital’s center. It’s characterized by gorgeous water fountains, trees, and eye-catching blue light effects accompanied by music. These features distinguish the place at night. The government created the venue to provide picturesque river scenery and fresh, clean air for everyone. It’s an ideal place to hang out with friends or your partner whether in the day or at night.

Kolam Biru

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening hours: 10am - 11pm (daily)

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25. Relax with your partner at Symphony Lake Water Show

Symphony Lake Fountain Show KLCC Park - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user arches used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you’re planning a romantic proposal, there’s no better place to pop the question than at this human-made lake, covering 10,000 square feet (929 square meters). It’s situated in Sunshine Plaza, close to Petronas Twin Towers. The pond, located within KLCC Park, features two water fountains, divided into more than 150 distinctive animations, programmed to synchronize with music and beautiful colors. You can enjoy magical light only and light with sound showtimes daily. The lights and sounds occur at 8pm, 9pm, and 10pm, while the lights-only show happens at 7:30pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm.

Symphony Lake Water Show

Address: Unnamed Road, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Website: Symphony Lake Water Show

Opening hours: 8pm - 10pm (daily)

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More to see in KL

With these attractions, you’re off to a great start in the big city. The good news is, there are plenty more to see there. Whether you’re travelling solo or with a group, Kuala Lumpur guarantees an authentic adventure. The warm reception of the locals will also inspire you to take your journey further. Have a great time in KL!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Kuala Lumpur Is The Perfect Rest Stop On Your Travels

Kuala Lumpur Is The Perfect Rest Stop On Your Travels