Print this article if you're a tour operator, accommodation provider or touristAn introduction to Kuala Lumpur's sights, sounds & attractions
Kuala Lumpur is a fascinating capital, blending a compelling mixture of things to see and do. Here you can witness different ethnic cultures and religions in perfect architectural and social harmony. Due to its diversified ethnic populations, the city offers numerous cultural sites of interest as well as museums, attractions and dining options.
Amongst the many attractions and sights, there are five major ones you should consider adding to your must do list. This said, there are so many sites it is really difficult to choose the shining lights amongst them, however, here are the top five things to see and do as nominated by the MalaysiaExplorer team for you to consider.
1. The Iconic Petronas Twin Towers
The iconic Petronas Twin Towers rise up majestically in the midst of the city centre and are considered as the jewels of Kuala Lumpur and its economic prestige. These steel and glass 88-storey towers are the headquarters of Petronas, Malaysia’s oil and gas company, in addition to numerous other major firms. Take a ride to the top and admire the striking view of the city from the clouds, or pass from one tower to the second, across the Sky Bridge, located on the 41st floor, which connects the twin towers by a glass bridge. At the base of the towers, lies the major classical music venue in Southeast Asia, the Dewan Filharmonik concert hall, boasting lustrous Islamic and Arabesque designs, which can also be found throughout the various floors of the towers.
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2. The Batu Caves
The Batu Caves are one of Kuala Lumpur’s favourite attractions, comprising three large caves and a series of other smaller ones. This limestone hill hides beneath its recesses a quantity of limestone formations that are said to be more than 400 million years old. These caves are a major religious landmark for Hindus, in particular the Cathedral Cave, which encompasses numerous shrines, featuring statues and idols scattered around the cave’s enormous arched ceiling. To reach the main entrance of the cave there are 272 steps carved in the limestone rock, which during the Thaipusam are crowded with thousands of Hindus who come to perform various religious rites in the shrines. |
3. Thean Hou Temple
Kuala Lumpur houses one of the oldest temples in Southeast Asia, the Thean Hou Temple, a six-tiered temple that dominates above Robson Heights. This magnificent building boasts an enormous prayer hall supported by gigantic pillars, at the centre of which are three altars with ornate carvings and mural paintings. This Chinese temple was built in veneration of the Tian Hou goddess who protects the fishermen. People also come here to venerate the goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin and it is also a favourite venue for weddings and festivals.
4. Chinatown
Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur is the paradise for shoppers who wish to find the best bargains in the city. This colourful district seems to be alive with the hustle and bustle of merchants and tourists 24 hours a day. It is the perfect example of Kuala Lumpur’s multicultural tradition, which blends in with all the other cultures in the city. Here you will find all kinds of products, from imitation goods to Chinese herbs during the day and at night, when the main artery, Petaling Street come alive with the animated night market, featuring innumerable stalls, where you can bargain for all sorts of goods and delicacies.
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5. Historical Tour of Kuala Lumpur
Take a historical circuit around the city, starting from the Independence square at Merdeka. This square is bordered by stylish buildings inspired by Moorish architecture that were once colonial administrative offices during the British rule. The imposing Sultan Abdul Samad building that houses the High Court is the largest on the square, and across from here lies the Royal Selangor Club, built in the Tudor style during the 1800s, with adjacent lawns, where cricket events were held.
Further along, where the two rivers intersect, stands the magnificent Masjid Jamek, the city’s oldest mosque, where the first settlers arrived looking for fortune. Continue on to the Central Market in the heart of Chinatown, and visit the oldest Hindu temple, the Sri Mahamariaman Temple and the Sze-ya Taoist temple built by one of the founders of the city.
Do not miss out on the vast aviary, an incredible spread of 20 acres that lies right in the heart of the city, taking you on an impressive tour lasting hours, exploring an impressive number of bird species, including tropical and temperate-region birds.
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Photo Credits: Amber, WhoCaresNo1NoesMe and Mister Jo
