Doing the Sights in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is a modern metropolis amidst colourful cultures. As one of the most vibrant cities in Asia, Kuala Lumpur possesses a distinct and charming character. There's so much to see and do in KL. The city abounds with architectural marvels, landscaped parks, pre-war buildings and many other exciting attractions. Most places can be accessed via KL's well developed transportation network or the KL Hop-On Hop-Off coach tours.

1) Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC)

Standing majestically at a height of 451.9 metres, Petronas Twin Towers is a world-renowned icon of Malaysia. This gleaming structure of steel and glass is the centre piece of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), which consists of a shopping mall, star-rated hotels, a landscaped park and a convention centre. The highlight of a visit to the Twin Towers is the exhilaration of standing at the skybridge on the 41st Floor and viewing Deck on the 86th Floor.

Opening Hours:

9am – 9pm (closed from 1pm – 2.30pm on Fridays), Tuesday to Sunday (closed every Monday)

Note: Issuing of Tickets will start from 8.30am (tickets are limited and issued on a first come first served basis). Advance purchase is available.

Ticket Price:

Malaysian (Mykad holders): RM25 (Adults) RM12 (Children)

Non-Malaysian: RM80 (Adults) RM30 (Children)

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / RapidKL LRT - KLCC Station

2) KL Tower

KL Tower is one of the most prominent and distinctive landmarks in the country. This communications tower, situated atop Bukit Nanas. Enjoy a magnificent view of KL from  dizzying height of 421 metres.

Opening Hours:  

9.00am-10.00pm daily (Last admission is at 9.30pm)

Ticket Price:

Malaysian: RM29 (Adults) RM19 (Children)

Non-Malaysian: RM49 (Adults) RM29 (Children) 

Note: The fee stated here is for Observation Deck only

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / A shuttle service is available from the tower's main gate

3) Istana Negara 

Istana Negara (National Palace) is the official residence of the King of Malaysia. This majestic edifice situated at Jalan Duta officially became the national Palace in November 2011, replacing the old palace in Jalan Istana. Covering 97.65ha, the palace boasts a traditional Malay design with Islamic art works that were created by renowned sculptors from Terengganu and Kelantan. The palace is graced by 22 domes, with the largest standing at a height of 40 metres. Its two main domes are embellished with betel leaf motives that shine when illuminated at night and change colour according to the occasion.

Note: Outside view only.

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus

4) Dataran Merdeka

Dataran Merdeka (Merdeka Square) is a good starting point to explore the city's heritage sites. The Union Jack was lowered here on 31 August 1957 marking Malaysia's independence from colonial rule. Hence the name Merdeka, which means "Independence" in Malay. A 100-metre-high flagpole, said to be one of the tallest in the world, proudly flies the Malaysian flag. The square used to be the focal point of Kuala Lumpur and the field here was the venue for police parades and cricket matches. Today, it is a beautifully landscaped area with gardens, terraces and fountains. Merdeka Square is still an important venue for natiional events such as National Day celebrations and street parades.

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / RapidKL LRT - Masjid Jamek Station. Merdeka Square is a short walk from the station.



5) Sultan Abdul Samad Building 

This remarkable edifice, built in 1897, was named after the State Ruler and served as the government administration building the British era. Boasting a Mahometan or Neo-Saracenic Style, the building is constructed entirely of brick. It was the largest building of its day and was said to be the finest in the Malay states. The stately structure consists of an imposing porch, graceful horsehoe-shaped arches, shiny copper domes and a 41.2-metre-high clock tower. The building makes an impressive sight when illuminated at night.

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / RapidKL LRT - Masjid Jamek Station. Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a short walk from the station (Opposite Dataran Merdeka).



6) Petaling Street (Chinatown)

KL's Chinatown is a bustling and colourful street of shops, restaurants and hawker stalls. Aside from the popular shopping district of Petaling Street, the nearby buildings, clan houses and temples contain evidences of the city's built heritage. Among them are the Central Market, Lee Rubber Building, Kwong Siew Association,  Old High Street Police Station, Police Sikh Temple, Old China Cafe, Old Victoria Institution and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. 

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / RapidKL LRT - Pasar Seni Station. Chinatown is a short walk from the station.



7) Little India @ Brickfields 

Little India @ Brickfields is a bustling and vibrant township situated minutes away from KL Sentral, the city's transportation hub. Decorated with ornate lamp posts and a beautiful fountain, this township features age-old landmarks and beautiful places of worship. Visitors can take in the charm of Little India by browsing through the rows of stalls selling beautiful garlands, selecting accessories and souvenirs or savouring tasty Indian food at the restaurants.

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / KTM Komuter or RapidKL LRT - KL Sentral Station. Little India @ Brickfields is a short walk from the station.



8) National Monument 

National Monument is situated overlooking the KL Lake Gardens, the huge bronze monument was built to pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who gave their lives defending the country during the Communist Insurgency in the 1950s. It was designed by Felix de Weldon, the architect of the famous Iwo Jima Memorial.

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus

9) National Museum

Malaysia's premier museum serves as a repository for the nation's rich history and heritage. Built in 1963, its facade features a Minangkabau-styled roof and two impressive front murals. The museum has four main galleries. Among the highlights here are the collection keris (Malay dagger), ceramics from the Ming Dynasty and traditional musical instruments from various parts of Asia. Thematic exhibitions are held from time to time. 

Opening Hours:  

9.00am-6.00pm daily

Ticket Price:

Malaysian: RM2 (Adults) Free (Children under 12 years)

Non-Malaysian: RM5 (Adults) RM2 (Children aged 6-12 years) Free (Children under 6 years)

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus



10) Kuala Lumpur City Gallery 

Get an insight into Kuala Lumpur through an interesting collection of prints, miniatures and photographs. The gallery is situated in a 114-year old Moorish Styled building, located at the historical enclave of Dataran Merdeka. Visitors can view a collection of of beautiful art pieces and miniatures, modeled after the city's heritage buildings and landmarks. Highlights include the Kuala Lumpur skyline wood veneer mural, the largest-of-its-kind in the world. Visitors should not miss the Arch Gift shop for a range of premium gifts and souvenirs. Interested visitor can join the DIY workshop to assemble their own souvenirs.  

Opening Hours:  

9.00am-6.30pm daily

Entrance: Free

Getting there:

KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus / RapidKL LRT - Masjid Jamek Station. The Gallery is about 10 minutes' walk from the station.

Getting Around Tips

Getting around Kuala Lumpur is convenient and affordable. KL Sentral, the city's modern transportation hub, provides a comprehensive network of train, bus and taxi services.

Trains 

An extensive rail transport system links the major parts of the city. The three services available are Putra and STAR Light Rail Transits (LRT), KL Monorial and KTM Komuter. These services are frequent, punctual and hassle-free. Freeder bus services are available from train stations to designated surrounding areas. Weekly and monthly passes are available for frequent travellers. All lines, except STAR LRT converge at the KL Sentral Station.

Taxis 

In Kuala Lumpur, taxi fares are based on a metered rate and are available 24 hours a day. The flag-off rate is RM3.00.

KL Hop-On Hop-Off Coach Tours

Malaysia's only semi-glass roofed coach takes visitors to over 40 places of interest in the city. Visitors can enjoy the sights at their own leisure - either stay on board for the full circuit, or hop on and off at any of the 23 designated stops. The tours come equipped with on board commentary in nine languages. Tours are available from 8.30am to 8.30pm daily. Tickets can be purchased on the bus, at authorised agents or via internet.