Kuala Lumpur Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory, Malaysia)

The Malaysian capital is a huge metropolis on first glance, with its lofty skyline and busy streets. However, the main tourist attractions and sights in Kuala Lumpur are concentrated within just a handful of areas, and it doesn't usually take long for tourists to get their bearings.

For some culture and bustle, have a wander around leading tourist attractions and locations, such as Kuala Lumpur's Central Market and Chinatown, the Golden Triangle - which features the Petronas Towers and KL Tower, and Merdeka Square for British colonialism. Other attractions in Kuala Lumpur include Jalan Tun Terak - one of the city's most important mosques, and the Sri Subramaniam Temple - which is located outside of town and home to the much ballyhooed Batu Caves.

Batu Caves

Address: Sri Subramaniam Temple, Selayang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY
Tel: +60 03 6089 6284
The Batu Caves are just outside of Kuala Lumpur and are a must for anyone visiting the Malay capital. The caves lie within the one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the country, and although generally thronging with people, they have a number of large caverns and an elaborate stepped entranceway. The caves are labyrinthine by design, stretching off in all directions, although visitors can only see part of these attractions. Rock climbers have many bolted routes to explore within the caves, while cheeky monkeys add a fun element. Tourists should keep all valuables tucked away from nimble-fingered monkeys and pickpockets, and try and visit the caves on a weekday, early in the morning.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 16:30
Admission: Temple Cave - free, Gallery Cave - charge

Central Market

Address: Jalan Benteng, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY
Tel: +60 03 2274 6542
Central Market is an air-conditioned cultural centre for craftspeople, with antiques, crafts, and kitschy souvenir items for sale. The market is spread over two floors and also has local artists' work on offer as well as custom-made handicrafts. In addition, every night the Central Market stages Malay martial arts, Chinese orchestral performances and Indian classical dance.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to 22:00 (shops close 20:30 or 21:00)
Admission: free

Lake Gardens (Taman Tasik Perdana)

Address: Jalan Parliament, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY
Harking from the 1880s, the lush Lake Gardens are Kuala Lumpur's prettiest park, encompassing a huge area and featuring many fun attractions, as well as a playground. The park sits around a manmade lake and also features a butterfly park, with its thousands of floaty creatures, and the aptly-named Deer Park. You can rent a boat and cruise around the lake.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free

Jame Mosque (Masjid Jame)

Address: Jalan Tun Terak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY
Located at the junction of the Kelang and Gombak rivers, the Masjid Jame is one of Kuala Lumpur's oldest mosques, signifying the very spot where the city began its history at a time when early tin miners lived here in shacks. The Indian Muslim mosque is ornate and features a number of historical attractions, including an imposing domed tower and an eye-catching Moorish facade, and is set within an especially tranquil setting.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Merdeka Square

Address: Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY
Outside of the city bustle, Merdeka Square is somewhat of a refreshing look at colonialism in Malaysia, surrounded as it is by elements of old England. The British used to play cricket here and the Tudor-style Selangor Club sits on one corner of the square. This is the spot where the Malaysian flag replaced the Union Jack in 1957.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Chinatown

Address: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY
Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown is a bustling city thoroughfare and ideal for strolling. This colourful attraction boasts a cluster of shops representing old China, where bargains galore can be had from stalls and small restaurants alike. Tourist will also find many worthwhile sightseeing opportunities spread around Chinatown, such as the Old China Café, the Lee Rubber building, the Old Victoria Institution, the Police Sikh Temple, the Old Post Office, and the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free