14 must do’s in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and is the start and end point of our adventure in Malaysia. Here are my must do’s when in Kuala Lumpur.

1) Batu Caves

Just outside of Kuala Lumpur are the Batu Caves. These large limestone caves are over 400 million years old. Some caves were made in the 19th century. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, Batu Caves and the temples are sacred Hindu shrines for the local Hindu population.

When visiting the Batu Caves, you will be first greeted by the tall golden Murugan God complete with his enormous “vel” which you can see from a far distance. 272 brightly colored stairs will lead you up to the caves. These colored stairs are perhaps even more popular and famous than the Batu Caves themselves.  If you want a tour around the Batu Caves you can do that for a fee.

Tip: On your way up to the Batu Caves, you may possibly see wild monkeys along the way. Be careful as they will attempt to steal food or belongings from you.

Temple fact: Please be respectful of the devotees and dress appropriately. Do remember to cover up when visiting and no short shorts, revealing tops, or slippers.

Estimate visiting time: 2 hrs

How To Get To Batu Cave: GRAB

2) The Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers are the symbol of Kuala Lumpur. The two silver-looking towers are more than 450 meters high and connected by a footbridge. Inside the Petronas Towers, you will find the Suria Mall where you can shop for designer clothes.

Tip: Go to the 86th floor of the Petronas Twin Towers to have an amazing view of the entire city.  

Fun Fact: The Petronas towers are the world’s tallest twin structure! 

KLCC Park

At the foot of the Petronas Towers is a green park where you can escape the city while at the same time enjoying the view of these beautiful towers. This is the KLCC park, completely free! Stroll through the green garden, cool off by dipping your feet in the paddling pool, or work out on the green grass. 

Don’t forget to catch the KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show!  Three shows can be seen at 20:00, 21:00, and 22:00 daily.

Shopping in Kuala Lumpur

We asked someone in our hotel what we could do in Kuala Lumpur and he showed us the map of several shopping malls. Kuala Lumpur is a shopping paradise. Go visit some malls or go to the local market in Chinatown to do your shopping. 

Sad fact: KL will disappoint you if you’re looking for some local souvenirs. We only found magnets.

Old Town Kuala Lumpur

The Sultan Abdul Samad

The Sultan Abdul Samad building is impressive to behold. The British colonial government used to be housed in this colonial historical building, today you will find several Malaysian ministries here.

Merdeka Square

In front of the Sultan Abdul Samad building is Merdeka Square, Independence Square. Cricket used to be played here, nowadays the National Day parade takes place here every year.

River of life

Go to the river of life and behold some beautiful colonial houses and in the evening a light spectacle!

China Town

Petaling Street Market

Petaling Street aka Jalan Petaling is a colorful, lively, and vibrant market day and night. The area was once dominated by the Chinese population in Malaysia and was declared a Heritage Site. But nowadays, Petaling Street is filled with stalls where cheap items are sold along the main street.

Fun Fact: Check out the old colonial houses around the Petaling street market! They are disapearing but some are still there.

Central Market

Another market is Central Market that showcase local Malaysian handicrafts, carvings, souvenirs, and batik prints. Don’t forget to check out the oriental archways.  

Thean Hou Temple

The Thean Hou Temple is one of the largest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. It is located just outside the center of KL. Entrance is free to the temple and the best time to come here is early in the morning. 

Menara Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur Tower)

KL Tower is another iconic building in Kuala Lumpur. It was once the tallest building before the Petronas Twin Towers were built. The tower was built to improve telecommunications.

Masjid Jamek

Masjid Jamek is located near the River of Life. You can stroll around the river bank and cross the river via a bridge from or to Masjid Jamek, another popular attraction for a nice photo spot in the city. 

Kwai Chai Hong

Kwai Chai Hong is famed as one of the most Instagram-able spots in KL. The charming street is filled with street mural arts and bright paintings. 

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple 

The Hindu temple is the oldest Hindu temple, squeezed into a bustling city in Kuala Lumpur. The temple itself is beautifully decorated and surrounded by a wall of colorful murals. We only saw the temple from the outside.

Guan Di Temple

This Chinese building is 121-year-old and dedicated to the Chinese God of War, who also represents loyalty. 

Rooftop bar

Celebrating my birthday in Marini’s on 57!

Last evening in Blue at EQ.

Must know

What is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur?

Malaysia is a tropical paradise with warm weather all year round; this is the same for Kuala Lumpur. The best time to visit Kuala Lumpur is between November and December. The weather is hot and humid, with an average of between 25C to 35C. Rain is normally during the late afternoon, but it lasts for a short period.

What to wear when visiting Kuala Lumpur?

The weather in Kuala Lumpur is scorching and humid all year long, especially during the afternoon. Please wear lightly but appropriately when traveling in Kuala Lumpur.

Is Kuala Lumpur budget-friendly?

Kuala Lumpur is budget-friendly to suit the varied types of travelers. You can find low-cost accommodation with great cheap food when visiting KL. At the same time, KL is also full of high-class luxury activities and accommodation choices for your holiday gateway.

Do we need to tip in a restaurant?

In Malaysia, tipping is not required at restaurants. 

Is Kuala Lumpur a safe city to visit?

Kuala Lumpur is a safe city to explore and wander. The locals are friendly and helpful. Same with other big cities, please always take care of your self belonging and beware of pick-pockets.

Life of a Passion