Heavily rich with culture, history, traditions and art, Kuala Lumpur is one of the largest cities in Malaysia. Being the capital city, it is often frequented by people all over the world for its intriguing attractions. Modern skyscrapers that rise up against the skyline, beautiful parks with wildlife, amazing entertainment and nightlife, you name it, KL has it all.
This city caters to visitors of all ages, whether you’re looking to learn about lifestyle, admire elegant architecture or have some long-awaited fun. We’ve drawn up a list of the 10 best attractions in KL you might not want to miss right here!
1.Petronas Twin Towers
These magnificent skyscrapers were the tallest buildings in the world up until 2004, and remain the tallest twin towers in the world today with the height of 452 meters. Step up onto the Petronas Towers’ Observation Deck on the 86th floor for a spellbinding view of the city.
Of course, there are many other things to do here. Shop ‘till you drop at Suria KLCC, nerd out at Petrosains, discover beautiful sea life at Aquaria KLCC, and more.
Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am-4pm
2. Perdana Botanical Gardens
The Perdana Botanical Gardens, formerly known as Lake Gardens, is a recreational park with the largest array of flower gardens in Kuala Lumpur city centre. Their most prominent feature is the Orchid Garden, with a whopping 800 species of orchids spanning 10,000 square metres. There is also a Hibiscus Garden, which is the national flower.
With walking trails, manmade fountains, gazebos and landscapes that exude the ambience of a rainforest, this park is perfect for strolls and picnics. There are bird and butterfly parks you can visit for a small entrance fee. Also, deers!
Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7am-8pm
3. Thean Hou Temple
This six-storey temple is one of the biggest and oldest temples in Southeast Asia. Also called the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven, the Buddhist temple is a shrine dedicated to the sea goddess, Tian Hou.
Thean Hou Temple also incorporates elements of Taoism and Confucianism, with shrines to Guan Yin Ma (Goddess of Mercy) and Shui Wei Sheng Niang (Goddess of Waterfront). The temple is decked with colourful architecture that is both traditional and modern, and overlooks a beautiful view of the city.
Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am-10pm
4. Batu Caves
Batu Caves is an extremely popular tourist attraction here in KL, comprising of 272 vibrantly coloured steps leading up the limestone hill to a series of cave temples. The steps are said to be repainted and will look more lively than ever!
A statue of Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity, greets you at the entrance while monkeys hang around with you on your way up. At the top is the Cathedral Cave where you will find several Hindu shrines and bats flying overhead.
Address: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor.
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6am-9pm
5. Hauntu Malaysia
Looking for some out-of-the-box fun attractions in KL? Hauntu Malaysia is the place for you.
Hauntu is the first and only immersive and theatrical horror experience in Malaysia. This interesting experience features real actors that interact with audiences, mazes and storylines centred around a paranormal colonial hotel.
Guests take on characters and solve puzzles in this fictionally haunted escape room.
Address: 6-1, Level 6, Menara Vista Sentral, Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Hours: might differ
6. Petaling Street in Chinatown
Petaling Street is a shopping district known for its extremely cheap prices. The flea market has stalls lined everywhere selling all kinds of things, from imitation goods to spices to even bongs! Surrounding this street are a few Chinese temples, including Guan Yin Temple and Kuan Ti Temple, making it convenient to visit a few places at once.
Address: Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
Hours: 24 hours
7. Central Market
Central Market is a building with compelling historical value situated in the heart of the city. This KL attraction was originally a wet market built in 1888 by our very own Yap Ah Loy, a notable political figure.
Now, Central Market is the centre point of Malaysian culture, arts and crafts. Shop for beautiful handcrafted antiques, souvenirs and batiks as well as satiating local delicacies like ais kacang, muar chee and other kuih’s.
Address: Central Market, Katsuri Walk @, 50050 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
8. Dragonfly KL
Dragonfly is one of the leading names in the entertainment industry, making it one of the best attractions in KL for nightlife.
There is a lounge and bar for dining and chill drinking, but when the night is no longer young, the club is the perfect party scene with amazing sound systems and state-of-the-art lighting effects. Many international DJs come to perform here, ask DJ Soda!
Address: Level 50, Naza Tower @ Platinum Park Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 9pm-3am
9. Heli Lounge Bar
If you’re in the mood for a fancy wine and dine with a 360° view of KL, then Heli Lounge Bar is the place to be. You need to order a drink to go to the rooftop helipad bar, which is a little pricey, but definitely worth it. Have a romantic and cozy dinner with a loved one while taking in breathtaking views of the city lights. You can even get a picture with the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower!
Address: 34 Menara KH, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50450 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 5pm-12am onwards
10. G13 Gallery
G13 Gallery is for all who are into the art scene, whether it be art enthusiasts, collectors or artists themselves. This gallery collaborates with potential artists both domestically and internationally. Their exhibition aims to expand the Asian art scene, and even participated in several regional art fairs over the years.
Admissions are free as you can’t place a price on art—unless you’re world renowned, then you can place whatever price you want.
Address: GL13, Ground Floor, Block B, Kelana Square, 227/26 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am-5pm
For more travel articles, visit LokaTaste.
