Some of the key things that make Malaysia a fascinating place to visit – it’s the rich diversity between cultures, picturesque colorful architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and beautiful natural landscape.
If you choose to visit Malaysia, there is something to do and see for everyone. Have a relaxing holiday by a beautiful beach in Langkawi Island, explore one of the oldest tropical rainforests – Taman Negara, see colonial architecture, visit the famous Petronas Towers, explore the modern capital and immerse yourself in the rich culture.
You can see a mix of native Malays, Chinese, Indians and ethnic indigenous tribes all co-existing as one, but yet retaining their own religion and way of life. It is truly a fascinating and interesting country to visit.
VISIT THE CAPITAL – KUALA LUMPUR
The capital is fascinating in contrast, from modern shopping malls and buzzing nightlife to beautiful mosques and quiet local spots where you can whiteness individual cultures. Explore streets of fresh food stalls from all over Asia and enjoy the markets where you can buy unique souvenirs and find some real gems! Kuala Lumpur is also one of the most significant business centers in Asia further bringing the community together.
Kuala Lumpur is a must visit for your first trip to Malaysia painting a true picture of the country and the uniqueness and significance it has.
TOP THINGS TO DO & VISIT IN KUALA LUMPUR:
1.) PETRONAS TOWERS
These towers were once the tallest building in the world from 1996 up until 2004. Currently it ranks no. 20 on the tallest building scale. However, it still stands as the tallest twin towers in the world! Nonetheless, it is one of the most impressive buildings to visit, peaking at 452 meters high.
You can purchase an entrance ticket for RM80/€17.50 (per adult) to the skybridge on the 41st and 42nd floor, leading all the way up to the 86th floor where you have the access to the observation deck. This is best spot to view the capital from above and observe the beautiful Kings Palace, KLCC park and the surrounding Titiwangsa mountains.
TIP: Choose a sunset time slot for an even more magical experience!
2.) JALAN ALOR STREET FOOD
Located in the heart of the city, a huge variety of affordable freshly cooked street food where you can enjoy Malay, Chinese, Indian and Thai dishes.
Although the open-air street market is huge, it can get very busy at times. If you want to get the best experience from your visit – Consider booking one of these food tours!
3.) KLCC CENTRAL PARK
This beautiful central park is located right next to the Petronas Towers! The perfect place to have a relaxing stroll and enjoy the refreshing surrounding greenery.
This park is completely free to enter and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
4.) BATU CAVES
This site is of significant importance for the Hindu Malaysians, attracting more than a million people during the Hindu festival of Thaipusam alone every year!
This is also the most visited tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur! Climb up 272 colored steps to the impressive limestone caves featuring Hindu Shrines and temples. Next to the steps you can see the giant golden statue of Lord Murugan.
Note: The entrance to the Batu Caves and the main temple is free, however if you want to visit the Dark Cave, it cost around €7.
5.) CHINATOWN, PETALING STREET
A hustling street filled with haggling vendors selling anything from food, clothing, jewelry to traditional Chinese medicine. You can find plenty of impressive counterfeit goods such as wallets, watches, scarfs and clothing at a very cheap price, along with a choice of souvenirs.
6.) KL TOWER
Yet another impressive attraction to be seen in the capital. This grand tower stands at 421 meters tall! This is a telecommunication tower functioning as an antenna to the fast-growing capital.
The foreigner price for the observation deck only is RM49/€10.70 per adult. You can also opt in to visit the daring sky box and deck at an extra fee.
7.) SHOPPING MALLS
Visit the best shopping malls in the capital – KL Pavillion s known to be one of the best malls in the city spreading over 7 levels located in Bukit, Bintang area.
Visit the Berjaya Times Square where you can find anything from over 1,000 retail shops to dinning and indoor amusement park.
Shop in Suria KLCC located right at the foot of Petronas Twin Towers, where you can shop endless designer items and enjoy the views of KLCC Central Park.
8.) SUNWAY LAGOON
This is a spectacular amusement park consisting of 6 adventure zones – Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park & Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon.
This park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Find tickets here: https://sunwaylagoon.com/etickets/
9.) THEAN HOU TEMPLE
A 6-tiered temple located at the top of Robson Heights offering some fantastic views paired with the stunning temple. The temple is based on the Chinese sea goddess Mazu representing mercy, kindness and compassion.
Interestingly, you can find fortune tellers and practice traditional Chinese martial arts here.
This temple is free of charge and opens daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
10.) RESORTS WORLD GENTING
Located in the mesmerizing Genting Highlands – 53km from the capital, lays Malaysia’s top leisure and entertainment resort. This premier resort compromises over 10,000 rooms spread across 7 different hotels! You can enjoy the endless entertainment of casinos, theme parks, international shows, retail outlets, fine dining and conventional business facilities. It is truly a world of its own!
11.) MAGICAL FIREFLIES TOUR
Explore the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur and visit the small town of Kuala Selangor. Kuala Selangor is known for its magical firefly colonies, which are believed to be one of the biggest in the world! Take a magical boat ride through a river lit up by thousands of fireflies. It’s truly an unforgettable experience you cannot miss!
ACCOMMODATION
IBIS KUALA LUMPUR CITY CENTER
Located inside the city center – just a 13-minute walk away from the Petronas Towers and 560 meters from public transport. There is also a small supermarket located right across the hotel for picking up a quick snack or a bottle of water!
As you walk towards the Petronas Towers, you can find some great restaurants around and a nice Chinese supermarket.
This affordable 4-star hotel has a 24-hour front desk, infinity pool and a fitness center to enjoy. The breakfast buffet had a good and varied choice of food.
I found this hotel to be great value for money given its location and the beautiful infinity pool. I had a great and comfortable stay.
TRANSPORT
KL TravelPass (Metro Card) in Kuala Lumpur
2 days of unlimited rides on the KL Monorail, LRT and MRT