14 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Things to Know About Kuala Lumpur
If you’re looking for the ultimate list of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, let Club Med be your guide. From high tea with a view to interactive exhibits, charming restaurants, and lush jungle parks, our list is sure to have something for everyone. Here is everything to know before your next visit and the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
Officially known as the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and affectionately referred to as KL, Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia. The city is the cultural, financial, and tourism capital of the entire region and one of the fastest-growing areas in Southeast Asia.
If you’re planning a trip to Club Med Cherating Beach soon and are wondering about other exciting areas to explore, Kuala Lumpur is just the place to go.
Before your next trip, there are a couple of things to know that can make your holiday more enjoyable. For example, English is widely spoken in Kuala Lumpur, but you can have an even better experience if you pick up a few key phrases in Malaysian.
You should also know that Malaysia in general is a multicultural wonderland. Even though the majority of the population consists of Malaysian Muslims, there are also many Chinese and Indian people living there.
The best time to visit Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur is between November and March. During these months, the entire west coast enjoys dry and warm weather, making it ideal for exploring beaches, temples, and other attractions.
If you’re travelling from Australia, know that you don’t need a visa as long as you’re planning on staying less than 90 days. However, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and you should have a confirmed return or onward travel ticket.
Explore the Batu Caves
As one of the most majestic attractions and must-see spots in Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves are not to be missed. The stunning limestone caves are guarded by a 42-metre monumental statue of the Hindu deity Lord Murugan.
To get the full experience, you can hike up the 272 colourful stairs where you might even see a cheeky monkey or two. When visiting, remember that the Batu Caves are a religious site, which is why you should dress modestly. However, if you didn’t bring any appropriate clothes, you will still be able to visit as there are clothes for rent on-site for a small fee.
Take a day trip to Genting Highlands
If you’d like to venture out of Kuala Lumpur, make sure to include Genting Highlands in your travel itinerary. Located 50 minutes away from the city, Genting Highlands is the perfect destination for those looking for a cool breeze and some fresh air.
Known as the city of entertainment, the resort town of Genting Highlands is set amid a breathtaking 100 million-year-old rainforest, creating a stunning backdrop. There, you can ride cable cars, visit an indoor theme park, a strawberry farm, a casino, the Chin Swee Caves temple, and so much more.
Discover Kuala Selangor
An hour's drive away from KL, travellers will find Kuala Selangor, a quaint district famous for its nature park, fireflies, and fishing villages. A key attraction of Kuala Selangor is the Sasaran Sky Mirror, which resembles the beautiful Bolivia salt flats.
If you decide to venture to Kuala Selangor and are a fan of fresh seafood, make sure to sample some at one of the restaurants or street food stalls there. You should also make sure to stay until nightfall so you can catch a glimpse of the thousands of fireflies glowing along the banks of the Selangor River.
Try white water rafting on the Kuala Kubu Bharu river
From a true adrenaline-inducing adventure, head on to the Kuala Kubu Bharu River. The eight-kilometre stretch of river promises an exhilarating experience as you navigate through the fast-moving rapids. It’s the perfect activity for friends, families, and all those looking for a fun bonding experience while taking in nature and the dazzling city skylines.
Visit the Thean Hou Temple
To see the wonderfully vibrant and historic parts of Kuala Lumpur, you’ll have to venture into different parts of the city. Luckily, KL is well-connected by trains, which are budget-friendly and can take you to see most of these spots.
The Thean Hou Temple is one of the largest and oldest temples in Southeast Asia. Splattered with hues of gold and red, many consider this temple to be one of the most decorative and ornate temples in KL.
At the Thean Hou Temple, you take some stunning photos of the six-tier design interior, adorned with raised ceilings, striking red roofs and lanterns, as well as intricate carvings and statuesque pillars.
Visit the KL Tower
The Kuala Lumpur Tower stands at 421 metres and it’s one of Malaysia’s most iconic and famous landmarks. One of the things that makes the KL tower worth a visit is that it’s the world’s seventh tallest tower, offering 360° views of the entire city.
To experience this cultural landmark in all its glory, you can take a high-speed elevator to the observation deck at the top. There, you can even enjoy a refreshing beverage or a tasty dinner.
See Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Noted as one of Malaysia’s most significant monuments, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building sits right across from the Merdeka Square. Constructed entirely out of brick, the building features graceful arches and a clock tower that resembles a much smaller version of Big Ben.
The architect behind the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is the same person responsible for creating the beautiful Masjid Jamek or Jamek Mosque. It’s one of Kuala Lumpur’s best attractions for history buffs who want to have a deeper understanding of the culture and architecture.
Shop at Central Market
A truly iconic landmark of the Malaysian spirit is the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur. Also called Pasar Seni, the market was built in 1928 and painted in shades of pastel blue.
If you like shopping or want to pick up a few souvenirs from your travels, the Central Market is the perfect place to do it. The entire place is divided by zones so you can find what you’re looking for with ease. However, if you’re not sure what you like, you can just walk along the stalls and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the space.
See the Pink Temple
Another picture-perfect attraction close to Kuala Lumpur is definitely the Pink Temple or the Masjid Putra. Constructed in rose-tinted granite in 1999, the Putra Mosque faces the beautiful Putrajaya Lake.
If you decide to visit the Pink Temple, make sure you leave ample time in your itinerary as the ride from KL takes around 40 minutes. In Putrajaya, you can also visit some other famous landmarks and attractions, including the Masjid Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin (Steel Mosque) and the Putrajaya Botanical Gardens.
See Little India
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and laid-back time while on your trip to Malaysia, here are some of our top things to do in Kuala Lumpur for leisure.
A must-see neighbourhood in the heart of KL, Little India is lined with many different Indian stores and restaurants. You can visit during the morning or afternoon for a quick snack or hearty Indian meal and sample some of their delicacies, including nasi biryani, thasai, or banana leaf rice.
If you’re in the mood to do some shopping or get to know the Indian culture in Malaysia, you can walk along the brick-paved streets and check out any of the wonderful stores there.
Explore Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
Just a stone’s throw away from the Central Market, travellers can find Chinatown, also known as Petaling Street. In Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, you can experience the true diversity and culture of the city by immersing yourself in the food, traditions, and architecture.
Whether you’re looking for a good bargain or a great snack, a visit to Chinatown is definitely one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
Have High Tea With a View
After a long morning of visiting galleries, buying souvenirs, or sightseeing, one of the best ways to wind down is with a high tea. Served at many restaurants and cafes across the city, having high tea accompanied by some Malaysian delicacies is the ideal way to take some time for yourself.
Visit Bukit Bintang
If you’re looking for the best restaurant or the freshest dish, you should start your search on Bukit Bintang. A foodie’s paradise, Jalan Alor is one of the most famous streets in the city, located in the Golden Triangle. Close to shopping malls, the bustling street comes alive at nightfall when hawker stalls and seafood restaurants open their doors, serving delicious treats.
See the Petronas Twin Tower (KLCC)
Arguably one of the most iconic landmarks of Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia, the Petronas Twin Tower dazzles visitors day and night. It’s the perfect spot to take in the stunning views of the entire city and snap some phenomenal photos.
Another fun feature of the KLCC is the Petrosains, which is an interactive science discovery centre where you and your family can learn about science and technology. Inside, there is also a mini theatre, art zone, and space-age exhibits.
A stunning tropical getaway in Malaysia's lush jungle
Set in the magical tropics of Malaysia, Club Med Cherating Beach is where you can immerse yourself in nature and truly connect with those around you. Our all-inclusive eco-resort is a serene haven nestled in 85 hectares of lush jungles along gorgeous coastlines.
When you’re ready to retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, let Cherating Beach be your getaway. Book your holiday today and let Club Med handle the rest.