We recently spent 48 hours in the city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. With only two days to see and do everything, we managed to pack quite a lot into a very tight schedule.
Kuala Lumpur was a quick stop for us on our way to Thailand as we were about to embark our biggest travel period yet.
After spending a month in Thailand, we visited Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos before making our way back into the North of Thailand.
If you’re planning your own trip to Kuala Lumpur, make sure to check out my travel guide eBook that includes everything you need to know about visiting the capital city.
Related blog posts to read:
- The Best Hostel to Stay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Batu Caves: Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting
- Travel Guide to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia eBook
- 12 Essential Things You Need to Backpack Asia
- How to Travel From Laos to Thailand by 2-Day Slow Boat
Below is a list of the top things to see and do during your visit to Kuala Lumpur.
1. Symphony Lake Water Show
Right at the base of the Petronas Towers is the free Symphony Lake Water Show, where the fountains dance to the rhythm of music.
Similar to the fountain show at The Bellagio, Las Vegas or Burj Khalifa in Dubai, but on a much smaller scale.
2. Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur
This is essentially Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. You can sample delicious street foods and try to find a bargain at the market stalls.
We dined here each night, trying dumplings, fresh seafood and more from the hawker stalls.
3. Batu Caves of Kuala Lumpur
An iconic religious landmark that’s worth checking out during your stay in Kuala Lumpur. I’d recommend visiting in the morning as the walk to the top can be quite strenuous and it gets hot in Kuala Lumpur!
Related blog post to read: Batu Caves: Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting
4. Dataran Merdeka/Merdeka Square
Visit the historic Merdeka Square, where Malaysia’s independence was declared. The area is surrounded by iconic landmarks and architectural gems.
The road here is usually closed off to traffic, so you have a lot of space to explore and grab some nice photos.
5. Bukit Bintang
A vibrant district known for its shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s almost like Malaysia’s version of Times Square in New York or Leicester Square in London.
If you need an eSIM for your travels, make sure to check out Jetpac!
You can get $5 off your purchase when you use this code ‘4293IOA9’.
6. Thean Hou Temple
Slightly out of the way, but a beautiful Chinese temple to visit. This was one of my favourite temples that we visited during our travels around Asia.
7. Sri Mahamariamman Temple
Pay homage to the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur, Sri Mahamariamman Temple. It’s known for its intricate and colourful carvings. Definitely worth taking a look!
8. Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park
Not many urban cities come with a rainforest! But you can find one right here in Kuala Lumpur. Stroll through the greenery and escape the hustle and bustle for a while.
9. Perdana Botanical Gardens
Take a stroll through the Perdana Botanical Gardens and enjoy lush greenery right in the heart of the city. Another garden that will make you forget you’re in a bustling capital city.
10. Titiwangsa Lake Gardens
If the above two outdoor spaces weren’t enough, you can enjoy a leisurely walk around Titiwangsa Lake Gardens. Another relaxing area of the capital city that will make you feel zen.
11. Pasar Seni/Central Market, Kuala Lumpur
A vibrant market where you can shop for local souvenirs, and indulge in delicious street food. Street food is something Kuala Lumpur takes very seriously!
12. Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman
One of the major roads in Kuala Lumpur. On Saturdays between 5pm and 10pm this street is closed to vehicles to make way for a night market selling a variety of street food.
13. Lebuh Ampang
One of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest and busiest streets. Although only a short street, it’s bustling with Indian restaurants, Chinese shops, and old-style buildings.
14. Jalan Tun H.S.Lee
Wander along Jalan Tun H.S.Lee and discover a mix of old and new. The area boasts food stalls at Madras Lane, and temples such as Sin Sze Si Ya Temple and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple.
15. Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park
One thing Kuala Lumpur isn’t short of is outdoor spaces, believe it or not. Tun Abdul Razak is another park to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
16. Taman Tasik Titiwangsa
You can walk around the lake here and admire the scenic views of the city.
17. The Row, Kuala Lumpur
A street lined with cozy cafes, trendy bars, and restaurants where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening. This area is also sometimes known as AHR (Asian Heritage Row).
18. Suria Shopping Centre
Shop til you drop or just escape the heat at Suria Shopping Centre, offering a wide range of shops and restaurants for every taste and budget. We found ourselves in here a few times to enjoy their air-conditioning over a cold drink.
19. Kampung Baru
This neighbourhood is a traditional Malaysian area that’s surrounded by the city’s skyscrapers. If you don’t have time to visit the rest of Malaysia, this area offers a glimpse of “regular” life you would see outside of Kuala Lumpur.
20. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Admire the architecture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, a historic landmark that stands as a testament to Malaysia’s rich heritage.
21. Infinity Pool at The FACE Suites, Kuala Lumpur
If you really want to treat yourself, book a night here and take a dip and relax in the infinity pool. The view is truly breathtaking.
22. Wilayah Mosque
Visit the Wilayah Mosque and experience the tranquillity of this beautiful architectural masterpiece.
23. Masjid Jamek
Explore the historical significance of Masjid Jamek, one of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest mosques, showcasing stunning Moorish architecture.
24. Istana Negara
The official residence of Malaysia’s King.
25. Medan Pasar/Market Square, Kuala Lumpur
Explore the historic Medan Pasar, a vibrant square filled with heritage buildings and bustling markets.
26. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Admire the architectural beauty of KL Railway Station, a stunning blend of Moorish and British colonial styles.
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