What To See In Downtown Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
What To See In downtown Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Home to the tallest twin towers in the world, huge ultra-modern shopping malls, night markets and gardens. Boasting a variety of public transportation modes, traveling in this modern city is easy. Downtown Kuala Lumpur is a city in which you can treat yourself to some truly good food. You can find pretty decent accommodation online. For TIPS click here.
- Petronas Twin Towers
- Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower
- Upside Down House KL
- KL Forest Eco Park (Treetop Canopy Walk)
- River Of Life
- Masjid Jamek KL
- Central Market KL
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building
- China-Town (Petaling Street)
- Kuala Lumpur City Gallery0
- Street Art of Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang
1. Petronas Twin Towers
88-storeys high, they are the tallest twin towers in the world. With well-kept gardens and fountains, they make for good picture venues.
The Skybridge on the 41st floor and the Observation Deck on the 86th floor will take your breath away. The Skybridge is 170-meters above street level and is the world’s highest two-storey (double decker) bridge
In the evenings, there is a musical water fountain that lights up in time with the music. Both towers are also lit up in a very dazzling way. There are daily tours which you can read about here.
2. Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower
At 421-meters (including the antenna), it is the 7th tallest free-standing structure in the world. Being the highest public viewpoint in the city, the views are phenomenal.
The Observation Deck at 276-meters offers a captivating urban-scape of the city. The Sky Deck at 300-meters is the main attraction.
The glass bottom Sky Box is the newest thrill added at the Sky Deck. You can dine at their revolving restaurant 282-meters high.
3. Upside Down House KL
Experience an Unreal feeling where it seems you are walking on the ceiling.
All the fixtures and furniture are upside down (fitted to the ceiling). Check the “photograph-guide” for tips on how to click unbelievable pictures.
4. KL Forest Eco Park (Treetop Canopy Walk)
An Eco Park in the heart of this Concrete Jungle, that serves as a “green” lung for the city. It contains a variety of tree species, walking trails and the thrilling Treetop Canopy Walkway.
The treetop canopy walkway has multi-level stages that offer a unique perspective of the surrounding buildings. Located right in the heart of the city, it is possible to get a glimpse of notable landmarks.
Keep arms and legs covered and use mosquito repellent or you will get bitten.
5. River Of Life (After Dusk)
A project by the government to beautify the surroundings of the historic Klang River that runs through the city.
The project is to eventually transform the Klang River and seven others. To beautify 110-kms into a vibrant and liveable waterfront with high economic value.
The completed part of the River of Life, is currently in the city. It is best appreciated after dusk as that is when the magic begins.
6. Masjid Jamek KL
Built in 1907, Masjid Jamek is recognized as the oldest Islamic place of worship in Kuala Lumpur.
Visit the Islamic Experience Centre just outside the mosque which houses a number of informative displays in English.
7. Central Market KL
Built in 1888, the Central Market is classified as a Malaysian Heritage Site. Inside you will find shops dedicated to selling local Malaysian handicrafts and goods.
Inside the market building, shops are designed in two-storey and single-storey village-style houses.
Kasturi Walk, is an outdoor extension to the market with an al-fresco setting. There are a variety of stalls selling tantalizing local snacks and exquisite souvenirs. This is a favorite haunt for street musicians or “buskers”.
8. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Built in 1897, this Moorish-styled building was called “Government Offices” till 1974. The design and architecture are a treat for the eye. It makes for fantastic photographs, you just have to wait till the traffic lights turn Red in both directions..
You can also get stunning pictures of the rear courtyard from the “River of Life” walkway.
9. China-Town (Petaling Street)
The China-town of Kuala Lumpur is unique. Aside from the regular shops selling high-quality fakes, you will also find hawker food stalls. These stalls sell Chinese food but with a pronounced Malaysian flavor.
Negotiate prices before making any purchase, there is a lot of scope to reduce prices.
10. Kuala Lumpur City Gallery
Click a picture at the iconic I ♥ KL sign in front of the City Gallery. It is located in a National Heritage building within the historical enclave of Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square). For more info on the Gallery, click here.
11. Street Art Of Jalan Alor/Bukit Bintang
The back alleyways of Bukit Bintang have been transformed by way of a city funded “urban renewal project”. Bright rainbow-themed murals adorn the walls while the streets are painted to match accordingly.
The notable night-markets in Kuala Lumpur are something to look forward to. Here you will find food, clothes, handbags, the latest gadgets and gizmos pretty cheap. All honestly sold as Original Fakes.
Average year-round temperature – 28ºC (82ºF)
Rainfall occurs any time of the year but the wettest months are November to March, November being the wettest.
For other destinations in Malaysia, click here.
Tips;
- Purse/Camera snatching is prevalent, be alert at all times.
- Carry your backpack in front, on your chest.
- Mosquito repellent is highly recommended.
- Food is awesome, eat local, always fresh.
- When booking hotels, it is cheaper if you book online even while at the hotel.
- Before visiting the PETRONAS Twin Towers, make sure you have your time-slot confirmed.
- Best times to visit are towards sunset so you can stay and watch the musical water fountain show.
- Purchase a Touch’N’Go Card. It is used for buses, toll booths (if driving) and accepted in many other places.
- If you want to use Grab (the local UBER), you must download the App on your phone.