Malaysia’s capital offers an exciting mix of cultures, and the new and the old, and here you will have the opportunity to see the stunning skyscrapers and glitzy shopping malls, but also places like Chinatown and more local areas. There are lots of things to do in Kuala Lumpur, and therefore, it should be a given stop in Asia.
This is a list of my personal favorites when it comes to things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
Petronas Twin Towers
The city and perhaps the country’s most famous landmark is undoubtedly the Petronas Twin Towers. Two iconic skyscrapers that give us an incredible view from both the ground and the top of the tower. To visit the Petronas Towers is absolutely a must thing to do in Kuala Lumpur!
Adjacent is the KLCC, which is a giant shopping mall with upscale clothing and jewelry stores.
Pavillion
Another giant shopping mall where one can find all sorts of brands and shops. It has everything from international chains to upscale designer shops. A must for all shopping lovers! But be prepared to walk, the shopping center is one of the world’s largest.
If you live in Chinatown, you can take the purple bus for free.
Malaysia Food Tour
The cuisine in Kuala Lumpur is exciting and offers many dishes that most people not even heard of. Go on the Malaysia Food Tour to get a culinary experience with a knowledgeable guide you will never forget.
Kuala Lumpur Tower
Like one prospect will take up the Kuala Lumpur Tower, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. It’s also possible to eat at the restaurant Atmosphere, which is a revolving restaurant. The food is nothing special, but fine. If you’re not hungry, just go for a drink instead.
Batu Caves
Batu Caves is another famous landmark located about 13 kilometers outside Kuala Lumpur. This place is sacred and filled with statues and temples inside the caves. Batu Caves were formed by limestone that is said to be over 400 million years old.
Best known is perhaps the giant gold statue that depicts Lord Murugan. It is the world’s second highest Hindu statue. Direct trains from Kuala Lumpur departs from the station in Chinatown and KL Sentral.
Langkawi
Langkawi is a paradise that is only a short flight away from Kuala Lumpur. Once there you could enjoy beautiful paradise beaches. However, it has gotten quite touristy, so if you’re looking for a nice getaway where no one will bother you, this is not the place.
But despite that, it is still very lovely and well worth a visit if you have a couple of days to spare in Malaysia.
Penang
Penang is another popular destination in Malaysia and with cheap flights, it’s both quick and easy to reach. Here awaits an even greater mix of cultures, hence the nickname “Miniature Asia.” One could also enjoy fantastic beaches and natural beauty, but the most famous place at Penang Island is Georgetown, which has been voted as one of the destinations you must visit according to Lonely Planet.
Georgetown is nice, but a bit overhyped in my opinion. The best things in Georgetown are undoubtedly the street food and street art.
Primal Wilderness Experience
Do you like nature and adventure? Go for the Primal Wilderness Experience and try adventure sports like climbing, wild tubing and much more.
Jalan Alor
During daytime, Jalan Alor is a famous shopping street, but in the evening, it turns into a paradise for food lovers. When nightfall is arriving, you will see chairs and tables being put out along the street where the restaurants and snack bars serves mainly Malay cuisine.
A full meal including drinks could be enjoyed for as little as 3 $.
Other things to do in Kuala Lumpur
Bird Park in Kuala Lumpur
First of all, I really dislike places that hold animals captive, but the bird park in Kuala Lumpur is somewhat different, and here they have chosen to let the birds fly free.
Unfortunately, not all the birds are free in the park, and before they do that, I can not recommend visiting this bird park. If you could get a change so that all species could fly freely, this could be a precursor for zoos.
Starhill Gallery
On Starhill Gallery is a whole floor which is focusing on massage, manicure, pedicure and facials. The perfect place if you want to spoil yourself for a day.
Central Market
Central Market in Kuala Lumpur is one of the city’s most visited attractions. The market started in 1888 and is still running daily. Here you can find almost everything between heaven and earth, including street food.
Chinatown
In Petaling Street, you’ll find Chinatown. Have you ever been to a Chinatown elsewhere, you have also been here. It’s a classic Chinatown, which is worth a visit if you want to experience some chinese culture.
Thean Hou Temple
An impressive Chinese temple situated on the other side of the canal in the area of Little India.
Address: 65, Jalan Endah.