Things to see in Kuala Lumpur
Attractions
Central Market
The landmark art deco Central Market is crammed with alluring ethnic stalls selling all sorts of batiks, pottery, woodcarvings, basketry, Kris daggers and other Malaysian handicrafts perfect for take-home souvenirs. A tucked-away Annexe Gallery hosts art shows and workshops, and the second level is given over to a bustling food court.
Address: , Jalan Hang Kasturi, Kuala Lumpur, 50050Telephone: +60 3 2031 0399 or 5399 or 7399
Opening times:
Daily 1000-2130.
Website: http://www.centralmarket.com.myAdmission Fees:
No
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Dataran Merdeka
Ringed by heritage buildings, Kuala Lumpur's central square is dominated by a soaring flagpole where the Malaysian flag was raised to mark independence in 1957. On its western edge stands the Royal Selangor Club, a former hangout for wealthy colonials, while opposite is the 19th-century Sultan Abdul Samad Building, noted for its fanciful Moorish-style turrets.
Address: , , ,Telephone: +60 3 2698 0332 (tourist office)
Opening times:
Daily 24 hours.
Website: http://www.visitkl.gov.myAdmission Fees:
No
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
The travel writer Paul Theroux summed up this unique building by calling it ‘the grandest station in Southeast Asia.' Its riot of minarets, towers, arches and spires date from 1911, but today the station serves only as a minor commuter train stop. Nevertheless, it's worth visiting this unique architectural smorgasbord incorporating Moorish and colonial styles.
Address: , Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Kuala Lumpur, 50621Telephone:
Opening times:
Daily 24 hours.
Website:Admission Fees:
No
Disabled Access: NoUNESCO: No
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
Neighbouring the National Mosque, this fascinating museum displays an astonishing collection of Islamic painting, sculpture, jewellery, carpets, ceramics and religious manuscripts from across the Muslim world. Highlights include exquisite hand-painted tiles and illuminated medieval copies of the Quran. Allow a couple of hours to explore the air-conditioned galleries and admire the stunning domed exterior.
Address: , Jalan Lembah Perdana, Kuala Lumpur, 50480Telephone: +60 3 2092 7070
Opening times:
Daily 1000-1800.
Website: http://www.iamm.org.myAdmission Fees:
Yes.
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Perdana Botanical Gardens (Lake Gardens)
Covering 90 hectares (200 acres), this sprawling green oasis was laid out in 1888 when British colonials built elegant houses around the landscaped greenery. The grounds feature boating lakes, pavilions and sculpture gardens, plus a hibiscus garden with 500 species, a butterfly house and an excellent bird park with exotic Malaysian birds. Free guided tours are available on weekdays.
Address: , Jalan Kebun Bunga, Kuala Lumpur, 55100Telephone: +60 3 2617 6404
Opening times:
Daily 0700-2000.
Website: http://www.klbotanicalgarden.gov.myAdmission Fees:
No
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Muzium Negara (National Museum)
The National Museum is an essential stop for anyone interested in Malaysia's rich history and culture. Completed in 1963, the eye-catching building combines architectural elements from across the nation and holds exhibitions covering everything from tribal culture to modern times. Free English-language guided tours run Monday to Saturday.
Address: , , ,Telephone: +60 3 2267 1111
Opening times:
Daily 0900-1800.
Website: http://www.muziumnegara.gov.myAdmission Fees:
Yes
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Menara Kuala Lumpur
One of the world's tallest telecommunications towers, the dome-topped, needle-like Menara Kuala Lumpur has fantastic 360° panoramic views from its 276m-high (905ft) observation deck overlooking the soaring Petronas Towers and surrounding skyscrapers. It's a good starting point to get your bearings and also offers a revolving restaurant, cafes and a souvenir shop.
Address: , , ,Telephone: +60 3 2020 5444
Opening times:
Daily 0900-2200.
Website: http://www.menarakl.com.myAdmission Fees:
Yes
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Sin Sze Si Ya Temple
Hailed as the oldest Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur, pocket-sized Sin Sze Si Ya was built in 1864 and hides down an easy-to-miss alleyway in Chinatown. Festooned with red lanterns, this incense-infused temple is decorated with beautiful artefacts; fortune-telling sticks are provided for devotees.
Address: Chinatown, 14A Leboh Pudu, Kuala Lumpur, 50050Telephone: +60 3 2078 9052
Opening times:
Daily 0700-1700.
Website:Admission Fees:
No
Disabled Access: YesUNESCO: No
Masjid Negara (National Mosque)
Constructed in 1965, the National Mosque is a striking geometric building full of Islamic symbolism. Its roof is shaped like an 18-pointed star, representing the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam, while the main prayer hall can hold up to 15,000 worshippers. Visitors are welcome outside of prayer times but must dress modestly.
Address: , Jalan Perdana , Kuala Lumpur, 50480Telephone: +60 3 2693 7784
Opening times:
Daily 0900-1200, 1500-1600 and 1730-1830, closed Friday morning.
Website: http://www.masjidnegara.gov.myAdmission Fees:
No.
Disabled Access: NoUNESCO: No
Tourist Offices
Tourist Information
Address: , 11 Jalan Tangsi, Kuala Lumpur, 50480Telephone: +60 3 2698 0332.
Opening times:
Mon-Fri 0830-1730.
Website: http://www.visitkl.gov.myThe main tourist bureau is located in the City Hall and can offer recommendations on where to stay, food to try and places to visit. Maps and brochures are available for free at the centre and are also distributed in various public spaces. The office also offers guided walks free of charge on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, meeting at KL City Gallery at 9am.
