Best Must-See Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Photo Credit: @alifhakeem_
Known for its skyscrapers, cultural diversity, good food, and unique sights, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's vibrant capital city that bustles with excitement from day to night. Go on a street food hunt, visit iconic sites, visit a water park, or escape the heat with a day trip to Genting Highlands, there's just so much to eat, see and do in Kuala Lumpur!
For Family Trips
1. Petrosains, KLCC
Photo Credit: @amir_maf (Instagram)
Holidays can be great fun and educational as well! Located in the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Petrosains is a 7,000sqm interactive science discovery centre where your little ones can learn about the fascinating world of science and technology.
Photo Credit: @syuross (Instagram)
From space-age exhibits to a mini theatre with 3D movies, a ride that takes you through the tranquil rainforests of Malaysia, a Music and Art zone, and even a section where the kids can dress up as engineers, the centre is easy to navigate and promises hours of fun. Pop by for a few hours after taking pictures of the KLCC!
2. Zoo Negara
Photo Credit: @koolitao
Zoo Negara is Malaysia’s National Zoo that houses over 400 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish! The open concept zoo spans over 100 acres of land and is dedicated to the conservation, recreation, education, and research of a wide variety of animal and plant species including endangered and exotic species such as orangutans, Malayan Tigers, tapirs, and more.
Photo Credit: @nanaelyna
If you are travelling with kids, this is a great place for an unforgettable day out with your family.
3. KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Welcome to the tiny interactive city of KidZania! Located in the Curve NX Shopping Mall, KidZania is where your children can simulate what it’s like to be a doctor, a fireman, a scientist, pilot, or any other role they’re interested in.
Built to help children develop independence, responsibility, and confidence, KidZania offers great opportunities for them to take on hands-on roles in a fun learning environment. Who knows they’ll take home lessons and life-skills from their role-playing sessions and be inspired to work towards a specific career in the future?
4. Sunway Lagoon
If you only have time for one theme park in Kuala Lumpur, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is definitely the one to add to your itinerary. This amusement park offers a variety of attractions within its confines, including water slides, roller coasters, a pirate ship, and haunted houses!
With over 90 attractions and rides spread across 88 acres, Sunway Lagoon provides the ultimate theme park experience. It also houses Asia’s first Nickelodeon Themed Land, the world’s largest surf pool, and even a Wildlife Park where you can say hello to over 150 species of animals.
5. Aquaria KLCC
Photo Credits: @yazakka
Aquaria KLCC is KL's world-class oceanarium that's home to over 5,000 aquatic and land creatures including hundreds of brilliantly-coloured fishes, sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, adorable otters, sea turtles, and more. While it's perfect for visits with family, it'll be equally as fascinating for just about anyone who has a soft spot for the beauty and wonders of marine life.
Photo Credits: @brendakfx
The aquarium's 90-metre underwater tunnel is definitely one of our favourite spots here! Get your open-dated, discounted Aquaria KLCC tickets on Klook for a hassle-free and fun visit.
Must-See Icons And Cultural Sights
6. KL Tower
Photo Credit: @alifhakeem_
Standing at a majestic height of 421 metres, the Kuala Lumpur Tower (KL Tower), also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur, is easily one of Malaysia’s most iconic and popular landmarks, alongside the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC). The KL Tower is the 7th tallest freestanding tower in the world, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city from the highest viewpoint in Kuala Lumpur!
Photo Credit: @faizhairulazmy
Ride a high-speed elevator to the observation deck at the top, or even enjoy a buffet lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea at Atmosphere 360, the modern revolving restaurant furnished with a spaceship-like atmosphere, with incredible city views from its floor-to-ceiling windows!
7. The Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC)
Photo Credit: @charlenegisele
The Petronas Twin Towers is perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks of Kuala Lumpur and of Malaysia. Impressive by day and dazzling at night, it’s a sight you cannot miss when exploring this vibrant city. For those in search of a good view from the top, head to the Observation Deck on the 86th floor or the double-decker Sky Bridge that connects both towers in the middle.
Photo Credit: @yasnit_joshua
If you’d prefer to snap photos from the ground, there are great photo spots of the Twin Towers from various points of the city. One such is from the KLCC Park which can be accessed via the Suria KLCC shopping mall.
8. Batu Caves
Majestic limestone caves guarded by a 42-metre-tall monumental statue of the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, Batu Caves is undeniably an iconic attraction and must-see in Kuala Lumpur. Hike up the 272 colourful stairs where you may be 'ambushed' by cheeky monkeys - be sure to keep your bags and cameras close!
Photo Credits: @miamahsuri
#KlookTip: As Batu Caves is a religious site, you’ll have to dress modestly (with pants or skirt/dress with a length that goes below the knee and tops that aren’t revealing) to get to the top. Clothes are however available for rental on-site at a small fee of RM5 ($1.25).
9. Merdeka Square
Also called Dataran Merdeka in the local language, the Merdeka Square is where the country proclaimed merdeka (freedom or independence in the local language) on August 31st, 1957. Check out the 200m-long field, one of the tallest flagpole in the world (standing at a height of 95m and proudly displaying the Malaysian flag), and the British Tudor-inspired Royal Selangor Club in the backdrop of the square. For an educational insight of Kuala Lumpur, pop by the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, located just beside the Merdeka Square.
The gallery houses a massive city model as well as a collection of impressive and innovative exhibits. Tourists also flock to take photos in front of the iconic “I Love KL” structure located in front of the gallery!
10. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Photo credit: IG @jazelle.loo
Photo credit: IG @lindsayvoitton
Located just across the street from the Merdeka Square, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of Malaysia’s most significant monuments. The building is constructed entirely of brick, with graceful arches and a clock tower that looks like a mini Big Ben! It was built in 1897, designed by the same architect responsible for the equally beautiful Masjik Jamek (Jamek Mosque). Pop by to snap some photos and read up on the history behind the building if you’re a history buff.
11. Central Market
Image credit: Central Market
The iconic Central Market is an iconic centre for Malaysian culture. Built in 1928 and painted a pastel shade of blue, it’s also called Pasar Seni in the local language and was revamped into a handicrafts outlet after serving as a wet market in the older days.
The Central Market is excellent for souvenir shopping as it houses shops and souvenir stalls with a great selection of local merchandise and handicraft items from authentic Malaysian batik prints to local snacks, artwork, and embroidery carvings. The space is even divided into different zones so you can locate souvenirs of your liking easily.
12. River Of Life at Masjid Jamek
Photo credit: IG @justyourmell
The River Of Life project was an initiative launched by the Malaysian government back in 2012. The project transformed KL's Masjid Jamek area into a laid-back photo spot that comes to life at night, events here include a Dancing Symphony Fountain with music and visual effects! The River Of Life made it into the Independent's list of "World's 10 Best Waterfront Districts", alongside other popular attractions across the globe such as the Shibuya Stream in Tokyo, Elizabeth Quay in Perth, Victoria Dockside in Hong Kong, and Clarke Quay in Singapore. Pop by at night for an unforgettable stroll!
13. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is an underrated attraction in KL. This 40,000sqft space is an interactive exhibit of pewter manufacturing and houses a series of galleries, a factory, and a retail store. The centre is beautifully designed and extremely well-managed, with free guided tours provided in several languages.
You can even participate in one of their unique workshops where you can craft your own pewter dish or accessory from scratch with the use of traditional tools and equipment! The engaging workshops are conducted by friendly professional instructors and are perfect even for beginners. Go home after a fun session with your masterpiece, special apron and a certificate of completion that you can show off to your friends.
14. Little India
Lined with Indian stores and restaurants, Little India is a must-visit neighbourhood in the heart of KL. Pop by in the morning or during lunchtime for some delicious and affordable Indian cuisine (some favourites include banana leaf rice, nasi biryani, and thosai!) and walk off those calories by checking out the shops selling everything from traditional Indian goods to saris, spices, local delicacies, and flower garlands.
The street is brick-paved and lined with white street lamps and colourful arches - keep an eye out for those and you’ll know you’re in the area!
15. Tugu Negara
Photo Credit: @adrianaomar_
Also known as the National Monument, the Tugu Negara was built in remembrance of the fallen soldiers during the fight for independence in Malaysia and is one of the country’s most significant historical spots. The 15.5m tall monument is one of the largest bronze statues in the world and consists of 7 soldiers carrying the Malaysian flag. Each of the soldiers represents one of the seven qualities of leadership: command, unity, courage, strength, wariness, suffering, and sacrifice.
The monument and overall area are beautiful and well worth a visit, do however remember to bring along an umbrella or wear a cap if you’re visiting on a sunny day as there is little shade here!
16. Golden Triangle
Also known as Kuala Lumpur’s commercial, shopping, and entertainment hub, the Golden Triangle is where three streets merge, forming a triangle that borders the entire Golden Triangle area. It is home to towering skyscrapers, world-class hotels, as well as a collection of popular shopping malls in KL such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Low Yat Plaza, Sungei Wang Plaza, Lot 10, and Berjaya Times Square.
Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang, located within the Golden Triangle, stands out as the trendiest shopping and entertainment district, known for its vibrant nightlife, major events, and attractions like Pavilion KL.
For those looking to do some shopping (window shopping works as well), you can’t miss this vibrant part of KL! It’s also a popular area to stay in if you’re travelling to Kuala Lumpur due to its central location and close vicinity to most tourist attractions in the city.
For Foodies
17. Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang
Photo Credit: @wellmaxed
Jalan Alor is one of the most famous streets in KL if you’re in search of a food adventure. Located in the Golden Triangle area within close vicinity to popular malls in the city, Jalan Alor comes to life upon nightfall with hawker stalls and seafood restaurants where you can feast to your heart’s content with BBQ chicken wings, tom yum (there’s a row of Thai restaurants if you prefer Thai food over local cuisine!), curry noodles, and even durian!
18. Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
Photo Credit: @eaterries (Instagram)
Photo Credit: @milokopipeng (Instagram)
Photo Credit: @lavienenrose (Instagram)
Located just a stone’s throw away from the Central Market, Chinatown (also called Petaling Street or ‘Chee Cheong Kai’ in Chinese) is an area where you can catch a glimpse of the culture, heritage, and history of the city. From imitation goods to delicious street snacks, it’s a bargain hunter’s paradise and great fun to stroll through if you’re in the area. There are also many lovely cafes and local restaurants located in the vicinity! From beef noodles to egg tarts and refreshing soya bean, check out our Petaling Street food guide and embark on a food adventure here.
19. High Tea With A View
Photo Credit: @winnieeeeesia
Photo Cre: IG @ginny_leong
Fancy some afternoon tea with great views of the KL city skyline? KL has a nice selection of high tea spots that offer lovely city views, fine teas, delicate sandwiches, scones, and other dainty bites.
Our personal favourites are definitely Thirty8 at Grand Hyatt and Lobby Lounge at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur. Pop by for a high tea session and to rest your legs for a bit after a morning of sightseeing!
20. Bangsar
Bangsar is definitely one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular spots to hang out at night. The district consists of streets lined with classy restaurants, cafes, dessert shops, pubs, and bistros that bustle with activity at night. If you prefer some local cuisine, Sri Nirwana Maju, a local restaurant nestled amongst other more upscale restaurants and cafes offers one of the best banana leaf rice in the city!
Be prepared for a long queue if you’re visiting during meal hours, alternatively, you can avoid lunch and dinner hours for a less-crowded dining experience. End your day with some ice cream or a glass of beer at one of the pubs in the area!
21. Night Markets
There’s no better way to experience the local food scene in Malaysia than visiting a Night Market! Also called pasar malam in the local language, these traditional street markets come to life at night and are usually located along a residential street, which gets lined with stall after stall selling clothing, accessories, knick-knacks, authentic local dishes, and street snacks that will make you drool.
Immerse in the vibrant night market culture and try out all the food that looks good to you - from nasi lemak to burgers, bubble tea, and other delicious street snacks.
Religious Sites
22. Thean Hou Temple
Photo credit: IG @seajoysa
Thean Hou Temple is one of the oldest and largest temples in Southeast Asia and a place for prayers and marriage registrations. Considered one of the most decorative temples in Kuala Lumpur, the whole space is splattered with hues of gold and red, symbolizing luck and happiness.
Snap photos against its six-tier design exterior, decorated raised ceilings, striking red roofs, red lanterns, and majestic pillars with intricate carvings. The temple is definitely a photographer’s dream, so make sure you get your camera ready!
23. Masjid Wilayah
Photo Credits: @benjichia
Malaysia is home to a handful of stunning mosques, but the majestic Federal Territory Mosque (also called Masjid Wilayah in the local language) definitely deserves special mention. This huge mosque can house up to 17,000 worshipers at a time and its architecture was inspired by the design of many other impressive mosques in the world including the Blue Mosque in Turkey.
The mosque welcomes both Muslim and non-Muslim visitors and there are even volunteers on-site that will gladly offer you guided tours and interesting nuggets of information. Make sure you dress conservatively while visiting!
24. Pink Mosque, Putrajaya
Photo credit: IG @ayda_june
Photo credit: @federicadinardo88 (Instagram)
Another popular mosque is the picturesque Putra Mosque (Masjid Putra) constructed in rose-tinted granite (thus giving it its iconic desert-pink hue). Built in 1999 facing the beautiful Putrajaya Lake, the mosque looks as if it’s floating on the lake when you view it from a distance!
While the Putra Mosque is located a short distance from the Kuala Lumpur city centre (approximately 40 minutes by car), it’s still worth a day visit if you have some time on your itinerary. While in Putrajaya, you can also check out other landmarks in the area such as the Perdana Putra (the building that houses the office complex of the Prime Minister of Malaysia), Masjid Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin (also affectionately known as the ‘Steel Mosque’), the Putrajaya Lake, and the Putrajaya Botanical Gardens.
Easy Day Trips
25. Genting Highlands
Photo Credits: @indahyz
Located just 50 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands is the perfect day trip destination for those who’d like a bit of a cool breeze and fresh air! Dubbed the City of Entertainment, Genting Highlands is a resort-town set amidst a majestic 100 million-year-old rainforest. Ride a cable car to the top and get ready for a day full of fun - Genting is home to an indoor theme park called Genting Skytropolis, Malaysia’s biggest strawberry farm, a casino, a cinema, the Chin Swee Caves Temple, and more.
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26. Kuala Selangor
Photo Credits: @_ericlim
Located an hour’s drive from KL, Kuala Selangor is a quaint district in the northwestern part of Selangor and is known for its fireflies, nature park, and fishing villages. Most people head here to check out the Sasaran Sky Mirror, dubbed the “Salar de Uyuni of Malaysia” due to its appearance which resembles the popular and beautiful Bolivia salt flats.
Make sure to feast on some fresh seafood while you’re here, and stay till nightfall so you can catch a glimpse of thousands of fireflies as they glow spectacularly along the banks of Selangor River. You can also hop on a river cruise and witness pitch-black water get illuminated by blue phosphorescent light, producing a magical blue tears phenomenon!
27. Sekinchan
Photo Credits: @doriskis
Sekinchan is a small fishing village in Selangor that's most famously known for its vast paddy fields. Come during the right time and expect to be surrounded by lush green fields with the bright blue sky as a backdrop! The town is a mere 1.5-hour drive from KL and is perfect for a day trip if you're not looking to spend a night.
28. Janda Baik
Photo Credit: @sharonliwei
Photo Credits: @wafflenessa
Janda Baik is another popular day trip destination that promises fresh air and a cool breeze! Located just an hour's drive from KL, it's the perfect nature getaway full of lush greenery and mesmerizing views.
Sip on coffee overlooking rolling hills, swim in a waterfall, or go on a nature hike that ends with rewarding views. While Janda Baik is totally doable as a day trip, we'd highly recommend spending a night in one of the beautiful nature resorts or glamping sites in the area.
29. Kuala Kubu Bharu River
Photo Credits: @ariffin_tsw
Photo Credit: @jidin
Also located just an hour's drive from KL, the Kuala Kubu Bharu River is a 8-kilometer stretch of river that promises a fun adventure for those who love adrenaline (and is great for those who've seen enough of the skyscrapers and city sights!). Experience the thrill of navigating through fast-moving rapids and get ready to be drenched by the cool, clear waters - white water rafting is a fun bonding activity for groups of friends or family, and you'll get to showcase your great teamwork!
30. Pulau Ketam
For those who'd like a glimpse of a laid-back local island in Malaysia, Pulau Ketam (which translates to Crab Island) is a great option if you don't have time to travel too far away from the city! The little island is easily reachable by ferry or speedboat from Port Klang (which is a 45-minute drive from the KL city centre), and is home to Chinese fishing villages with traditional houses built on stilts as well as a great selection of seafood restaurants. The best way to explore the island is by renting a bike!
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