Kuala Lumpur is a sprawling metropolis, home to over 5 million people. It was the heart of colonial Malaysia under British rule and has been the administrative and economic center since the country became independent in 1957. Home to a diverse and cosmopolitan population, this is where you’ll find some of Malaysia’s most important cultural, historical and religious sites.
Visit Merdeka Square to see where Malaysia’s independence was declared. You’ll find the city gallery, museums and stunning old colonial buildings. Wander across the river to the Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek). This Moorish-style structure was built in the early 20th century and was the city’s main religious site until the modernist National Mosque was completed in 1965.
Near to the National Mosque is the Lake Gardens, a great place to relax. You’ll find manicured lawns and a selection of trees, flowers and wildlife. Admire majestic peacocks and feed parrots in the adjacent Kuala Lumpur Bird Park. Another option is a trip to the National Zoo to see native elephants and tigers. There are also animals from as far away as South America and Australia.
For a staggering panorama of the city, head up Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur). You’ll be able to spot all the major landmarks and get a great view of the PETRONAS Twin Towers. These skyscrapers that define the downtown skyline are among the world’s tallest buildings. A ticket buys you a stunning view from the 86th floor observation deck. You can also enjoy the Lake Symphony water and light show in KLCC Park at the Twin Towers’ base.
Take a trip out to the Batu Caves and explore a site sacred to the city’s Hindu community. There are temples and statues inside a cave complex that rises nearly 330 feet (100 meters) above ground. Make your way back to town to pick up bargain watches and handbags, and enjoy a bowl of noodles on Petaling Street.
Kuala Lumpur’s multicultural population and fascinating history give the city a distinct flare and colorful atmosphere. From mosques and temples to jaw-dropping skyscrapers and Chinese markets, its attractions are as intriguing as they are diverse.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. Check out top attractions like KLCC Park and Suria KLCC Shopping Centre, and jump on the metro at Persiaran KLCC MRT Station or KLCC Station to see more of the city.
Bukit Bintang
Bukit Bintang is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Berjaya Times Square, and you can get around town on the metro at Bukit Bintang Station.
Golden Triangle
Gourmet restaurants Chinatown and top sights from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to KLCC Park – discover Golden Triangle, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Chinatown
Chinatown is known for its popular shops, and you can see some sights area like Petaling Street and Petaling Street Market.
Mid Valley City
Mid Valley City is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Mid Valley Megamall or The Gardens Mall.
Brickfields
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Brickfields. Spend some time visiting top spots like Kuala Lumpur Sentral, and catch the metro at KL Sentral Station or Tun Sambanthan Station to see more of the area.
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Popular places to visit
Petronas Twin Towers
Enjoy the view from the observation deck on the 86th floor, atop the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers.
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a favourite shopping spot in Kuala Lumpur. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
Berjaya Times Square
Enjoy the thrills at Berjaya Times Square and see why this is a popular theme park in Kuala Lumpur. Visit the shops and lively bars in this culturally rich area.
Sunway Pyramid Mall
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Sunway Pyramid Mall, a favourite shopping spot in Petaling Jaya. Amble around this vibrant area's Chinatown and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
KLCC Park
Relax by the lake as you gaze at the city skyline or wander the grounds to see statues, water features and landscaped gardens.
Mid Valley Megamall
You can search for that perfect souvenir with a trip to Mid Valley Megamall, a favourite shopping spot in Kuala Lumpur. Amble around this vibrant area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Things to do
From Kuala Lumpur: Genting Highlands & Batu Caves Day Trip
From Kuala Lumpur: Historical Melaka Day Tour with Lunch
Experience Brooklyn Cruise at Senibong Cove
Reviews of Kuala Lumpur
5/5 - Excellent
We used an excellent driver called Rosli .. took us all over the city. Safe driver and very nice. We enjoyed our stay
5/5 - Excellent
Nice city
5/5 - Excellent
Amazing place for a multi-night City stay.
4/5 - Good
massive tower block, road and rail building program.Petronas towers all but hidden amonst the new towers. New air con walkways make getting about easy and away from traffic fumes Very impressive city.....not sure about its effect on global warming
3/5 - Okay
Not many tourist attractions.. but heaven for foodie. Eat Nasi Lemak at Village Park!!! So great. The best rice, sambal and fried chicken. It’s far from city center but worth it ;)
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful City. Beautiful people.
Other places like Kuala Lumpur
- Petronas Twin Towers
- Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
- Berjaya Times Square
- Sunway Pyramid Mall
- KLCC Park
- Bukit Jalil National Stadium
- Suria KLCC Shopping Centre
- Kuala Lumpur Tower
- Jalan Alor
- Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
- Batu Caves
- Axiata Arena
- Putrajaya International Convention Centre
- Sunway Putra Mall
- Cheras Leisure Mall