The Top 9 most memorable things to do in Kuala Lumpur
Welcome to Malaysia – a country in South East Asia which could not be any more developed. Malaysia is, compared to other travel destinations in South East Asia, a very modern and progressive country. Those characteristics can be best explored in the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur is the heart of the country, not only economically-wise but as well with all the liveliness and the chaos. With 1.8 Million inhabitants, impressive buildings and a lot of food, Kuala Lumpur is the ideal travel destination for anyone who wants to explore the whole country or just experience an unforgettable city trip! Make sure to not miss the following highlights of the city.
Enjoy the impressive view of the Petronas Towers
Can you really come to Kuala Lumpur without admiring the impressive Petronas Towers? The towers are somehow the landmark of Kuala Lumpur and mark pretty much every picture of the city. The twin towers are located directly in the center of KL, in the middle of shopping malls and food markets. With a height of 452 meters, they are the highest buildings. But how do you best explore them?
You can enter the Petronas Tower with a tourist ticket. This will give you the ultimate experience of the impressive architecture and you can enjoy the incredible view over the city. Within the guided tour, you will be able to get to know everything about the Petronas Towers, their architecture and history. The entry fee is 33 Malaysian Ringgit, which is nearly 17 Euros. Quite expensive for those travelling on a budget, but it can totally be worth it.
If you are not willing to spend this much money on entering a building, do not worry. Because the best way to make the most out of the towers, is by simply looking at them from the outside. There is a small square in front of the towers, where you can sit and take pictures. Especially before sunset, you can witness the towers lightening up and sparkling in the night sky. This truly is a unique view and a highlight of visiting Kuala Lumpur.
Stay in a hotel with a rooftop pool – a must-do experience in KL
If you stay in a hotel with a rooftop pool once in your life, then this is the right choice. Kuala Lumpur is famous for its amazing hotels with pool on the top from which you can overlook the entire city. A total misconception though is, that these hotels are expensive. They don´t need to be. There are cheap options, as some buildings are filled with small Airbnb’s or Hostels. Being a quest in the building, you automatically have access to the rooftop and the pool.
The hotels with infinity pool on the rooftop can be found in any price range. While a travellers on a higher budget can stay in the Pavillion Hotel Kuala Lumpur, budget travellers can search on Airbnb for a good option.
Make sure to wake up early to watch the sun rise over the city – an absolute bucketlist moment in Kuala Lumpur!
Visit the colorful Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur
You think, you have seen every type of temple? Wrong, because the Batu Caves kind of exceed all expectations. This is probably one of the most colorful temples in South East Asia. The stairs leading up to the cave are painted in all colors of a rainbow and are the absolute highlight of the Batu Caves. The temple itself is in the middle of a giant cave, which creates a mystic and spectacular atmosphere.
The Batu Caves are on top of the list for sightseeing spots of Kuala Lumpur and for sure under the Top things to do in the city. Make sure not to miss it!
Enjoy a drink in the helicopter bar during the sunset
The Heli Lounge Bar is the number 1 place to be for sunset in KL. This experience includes delicious drinks, an amazing view, a beautiful sunset and an incredible time – what more can you possibly ask for? Spending one evening in the Heli Lounge Bar is one of the top things to do in Kuala Lumpur. Especially for budget travellers, this is the ideal chance to get an overview over the city for a relatively cheap price. Buying a drink is your entry fee and you are allowed to take a seat on the top of the building, which used to be a helicopter landing pad.
Make sure to arrive early enough to see the sun set over the city and at the same time, stay long enough to enjoy the ocean of sparkling city lights underneath and all around you.
Visit the Thean Hou Temple and get to know the Chinese Culture in KL
Let´s go on with the temple run. Another incredible temple is the Chinese Thean Hou Temple. It is located a little outside of the city center, but can be reached by foot or by taxi. Entering the temple makes you feel like entering a whole different world. The colorful lanterns, the view over the city and the tranquility. Have a seat on one of the benches and enjoy the atmosphere. The view from the top of the temple is absolutely stunning and you can see the sky scrapers of Kuala Lumpur.
Go for a long shopping day in the malls
A shopping tour can´t be missing on a city trip to Kuala Lumpur. There is barely any city in South East Asia offering such a shopping paradise. The shopping malls are incredibly big and you could spend days exploring one mall after the other. Even though this might not be a cultural thing to do, it is still a great way to spend a rainy day or a break in between the sightseeing.
The Top malls in Kuala Lumpur:
- The Suria KLCC
- The Pavilion Kuala Lumpur (a personal favorite)
- The Sogo Shopping Mall
Make sure to leave some space in your suitcase or backpack before coming to Kuala Lumpur – you´ll probably need it!
Visit the Federal Territory Mosque to get closer to Malaysia ´ s religion
When in Malaysia, you should get to know the religion better. The majority of the inhabitants are Muslim and the religion is very present wherever you go. If you want to get to know the country better, it is essential to get to know the Islam. One option is to visit the Federal Territory Mosque in KL. Take a grab to the mosque and be part of one of the free tours around the Mosque, which is taking place every day. You will wear traditional clothing and get to see the impressive Mosque.
You can be certain, that this thing to do is an absolute highlight while staying in KL and will change your perspective on both the religion itself but as well the country.
Stroll through China Town and the Petaling Street and try the food
An absolute highlight in Kuala Lumpur is the Petaling Street, the heart of China Town. A mixture of smalls shops, local sellers and incredibly cheap and good food. This is the place to be for budget travellers and those who want to experience a totally different side of the city. You can find little souvenirs, cheap stuff and a culinary experience. The latter is the best reason to visit the street.
Notes-from-a-traveller´s tip:
Make sure to try the various fruits, the Naan Bread and the pancakes. This is the absolute heaven for foodies in KL.
Walk through the center by night
Isn´t any city even prettier by night? With the millions of lights, the impressive buildings and the relaxed atmosphere a walk through the city by night is a must-do. You can stroll around the area of the Petronas Towers or the Pavillion Shopping Mall.
There are countless restaurants or street food places which invite you to an incredible evening. Just go out and see where the city takes you. And with the free bus lines in the center of Kuala Lumpur and the cheap grab taxis, you can always be sure to find a way back home to your hotel or hostel.
Of course, the list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur can be endless. The KL Tower is another highlight of the city and there are also more temples, museums and food markets to explore. This guide is all about the absolute Top Things to Do in the city suitable for travellers on any budget. Kuala Lumpur is a wild ride and one of the most exciting cities in South East Asia. You can combine your visit with a trip through the country or include it as a stop-over on a flight to other destinations. You will for sure not regret it!
For more tips on travelling through the stunning country of Malaysia, check out The 10 things you need to know before travelling Malaysia.
