The pulsating, sticky, humid and ethinically diverse capital of modern day Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is far more than a stop-over or gateway city for travellers en route to South East Asia’s more renowned destinations. In fact, visitors from Europe, stepping off long haul flights to Kuala Lumpur, should set aside at least 3 days to soak up all this eclectic city has to offer. We’ve compiled a guide of ‘must do’s and free attractions for inquisitive backpackers eager to get to know this amazing city.
Jamek Mosque is the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur, located strategically at the meeting point of the Klang and Gombak Rivers. The unique appeal of cultural heritage, inspired by Moghul architecture is what some may call the “heart of Kuala Lumpur”.
It has since been replaced by a more modern building, more commonly known as Kuala Lumpur’s National Mosque but due to its fantastic position and historical links it should definitely be on the to do list! The main entrance is on Jalan Tun Perak, a stone’s throw from Masjid Jamek Station. Unless it is prayer time, the mosque can be visited for free/donation only, daily 08.30-13.30 and 14.30-18.00.
China Town’s Petaling Street is the place to be after 6pm every night. The entire area is closed to vehicles and transformed into a pasar malam (night market). If you want to practice your bartering skills then this is the place to be with an abundance of fake, branded goods and authentic Chinese food. You don’t have to spend any money to stroll around and take in the atmosphere.
Probably the most popular tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur is the Petronas Towers. These twin towers completed in 1997 were classed as the highest building in the world (452 meters) until 2004. Inspired by Islamic architecture and designed by architect Cesar Pelie, the 88 storey buildings are iconic, located in Kuala Lumpur city centre. There is a sky bridge joining both towers at 175 metres above street level. It is free to go up to this viewing platform, however you need a ticket to do so and these are limited daily.
The ticket counter opens at 8.30am but expect to queue. Opening hours are 9am-5pm every day except Monday. The towers also host the headquarters of the Petronas company and other offices, an upmarket shopping centre, aquarium, convention centre, concert hall and science discovery centre. There are are walking tracks, fountains and a wading pool for children in the grounds.
Another of Kuala Lumpur’s most visited attractions are the Batu Caves, seven miles north of the city and one of the most popular and worshipped Hindu shrines outside of India. There are 3 big caves and several smaller ones built into a limestone hill. Cathedral cove is the most popular cavern and can be reached by climbing 272 rock stairs and manoeuvring your way around hordes of cheeky macaque monkeys. At the foot of the steps there is a 42.7m high statue of Lord Murugan, the tallest Hindu deity of its kind in the world. As the caves are positioned on a hill it is worth the trip just for the view over Kuala Lumpur city.
The easiest way to get to Batu Caves is to take the KTM commuter train from KL Sentral station to the Sentul Station. Alternatively, there are lots of taxis or you can take a local bus from China town or Puduraya bus terminal. The journey time is about 45 minutes but admission to the caves is free. They are open daily from 6am to 9pm.
Thean Hou Buddhist Temple, South West of the city, is one of the largest and oldest Chinese temples in South East Asia. With amazing views over the cityscape of Kuala Lumpur, Thean Hou is located on 1.67 acres of land. Built by the Hainanese community in 1894, this six tiered temple is dedicated to Tian Hou (The Heavenly Mother) a goddess said to protect fishermen and men of the sea. Admission is free and the temple is open daily from 9am to 6pm, but often stays open later. The best way to get there is by taxi.
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