Ten Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur
A city whose name quite literally means “muddy river junction”, Kuala Lumpur often loses out on visitors compared to the heritage charms of Penang or the beach and wilderness delights of Langkawi. But, whether you’re exploring independently or travelling with a guide – in Kuala Lumpur, private tours are relatively much more cost-effective than group tours — there are a few experiences you simply must not miss. Here are ten great things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
See Thaipusam at the Batu Caves
The Batu Caves, sacred Hindu cave temples just outside the city, are one of Kuala Lumpur’s signature sights. Experience them in their full heaving, crazy glory, alongside tens of thousands of worshippers, some self-flagellating, during the Hindu festival of Thaipusam in January or February each year.
Sip a Jungle Bird Cocktail
The national cocktail of Malaysia, the Jungle Bird is a delicious blend of rum, Campari, citrus and pineapple, created at the Hilton Kuala Lumpur during the 1970s. One great spot to try it? Omakase and Appreciate, a much-awarded speakeasy concealed behind a door that warns you to keep out.
Shop for Fakes at Petaling Street Night Market
Sprawling down the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, the Petaling Street Market is a bargain-hunter’s paradise, with fakes of every variety, from bags to sunglasses. (I love the shades.) Swing by of an evening, haggle like a demon, then slurp back a sneaky assam laksa while you’re there.
Check Out the Petronas Twin Towers
Probably the city’s signature sight, the interlocked spires of the Petronas Twin Towers are a Kuala Lumpur icon. If you’re travelling with kids (or your inner child), the excellent, interactive Petrosains Museum is a must; alternatively, admire from below or pay extra to access the observation deck.
Stroll the Waterfront
After aeons without a real centre, Kuala Lumpur’s waterfront has been refreshed, renewed and cleaned up. And a stroll along the spot where the Klang and Gombak rivers flow together, giving the city its name, reveals a whirl of heritage buildings, deliciously lit up at night.
Feed Your Face with Street Food
From ye classic banana leaf curry to breakfasts such as chilli pan mee, from satay to dim sum, Teochew to Tamil, Kuala Lumpur’s multicultural population makes the city street food heaven. Try Jalan Scott for banana leaf curry, Jalan Alor for a wealth of stalls, or the top of Jalan Changkat Thambi Dollah for Chinese. Or visit Lot 10 Hutong food court for a diverse sampling.
Discover Islamic Art
If museums are your thing, Kuala Lumpur’s one don’t-miss is the Islamic Art Museum of Malaysia, in a fresh contemporary building. Discover the joys of Islamic art—made without depicting the human form—from around the world, with a focus on China and Asia.
Shop Till You Drop in Brickfields
Whether you’re seeking saris or spices, perfume or kohl, jewellery or offerings, Kuala Lumpur’s Little India is a bewitching spot to stock up on the good stuff (in between meals). Try Mangala Theebam on Brickfields for spectacular saris, with a wealth of snacks on offer nearby.
Soak up the Skyline from a Helicopter Landing Pad
I love a good rooftop bar as much as the next person, but for sheer old-fashioned rawness, it doesn’t get much better than the old-school Heli Lounge Bar. There’s a fun and funky interior downstairs, but up above is where the thrills lie: an unscreened, apparently unshielded helicopter landing pad.
Explore Lake Gardens
Right in the heart of KL, Lake Gardens offers a wealth of tropical park pleasures, from the Perdana Botanical Gardens with its stunning orchid collection to a butterfly park, an aviary, and even a planetarium. A must with kids, it’s a rewarding day out for adults as well.