03 Jun 2015

What to do for a day in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a city that offers many things. There’s great shopping to be done, it’s steeped in culture, you’ll find some of the world’s most famous buildings there and it’s great value.

If you find yourself there with only a day to spare, here’s what you should do…

10am – Begin your day at the Petronas Towers

daytime view of Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur

The city’s famous twin towers are a symbol not only of Kuala Lumpur, but of Malaysia. They are an awesome sight and deserve to be top of anybody’s KL itinerary. Get the obligatory photos before setting off for the day.

11am – Enjoy the views from Kuala Lumpur Tower

Kuala Lumpur Tower on a clear day in Malaysia

Built between October 1991 and September 1994, Kuala Lumpur Tower (offically known as Menara Kuala Lumpur) is another of the Malaysian capital’s famous structures. Make your way to the observation deck which is 276m high above the city for unrivalled views.

12 noon – Shop shop shop in Chinatown

Street in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur lit up by lanterns Image courtesy of Connie Ma.

KL’s Chinatown, and in particular Petaling St, is one of the best places in the city to go shopping. Explore the famous street along with those that surround it, haggle with the stall owners and treat yourself to a new pair of shades, shorts, flip flops, jeans… the list goes on.

1.30pm – Grab lunch in Little India

Flower stalls in Little India, Kuala Lumpur Image courtesy of Yun Huang Yong.

Just next door to Chinatown is another of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods with Little India. It’s also a great place for eating out. Pop into ABC’s Food Corner (1009 Jalan Masjid India) for some authentic Indian fare.

3pm – Jump in a cab bound for the Batu Caves

Close up of Hindu carvings in Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur

Located 13km north of Kuala Lumpur are the Batu Caves. Discovered in 1878 by American Naturalist William Hornaday, the three caves (and other smaller ones) are now a temple to Hinduism, making it quite the attraction. Be warned though – the 272 steps to the entrance along with the monkeys you pass along the way can prove to be testing.

7.30pm – Enjoy world-class street food and an electric atmosphere on Jalan Alor

close up of street food skewers in Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur Image courtesy of Aussie Assault.

Street food and southeast Asia go hand in hand, meaning there’s lots to choose from in the Malaysian capital. Of all the streets, the one that offers the best selection is Jalan Alor in KL’s Golden Triangle. My advice is go to Meng Kee Grill (39 Jalan Alor) which, among other things, does extremely good seafood.

9pm – Go back to the Petronas Towers

Shot of Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur at night

As awesome as the Petronas Towers are during the day, they’re even more breathtaking at night. Go back to the towers for more photos that will sparkle as you scroll through your shots.

10pm – Enjoy a night cap on Jalan P Ramlee

close up of bottle in Kuala Lumpur bar Image courtesy of ThisParticularGreg.

Finish the day off with a night cap along one of the many bars along KL’s Jalan P Ramlee, close to the twin towers.

Do you want to get a real feel for Kuala Lumpur? Browse our homestays there to book your next getaway!