What to see in Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant heart of Malaysia
History and Culture of Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a city that perfectly combines tradition and modernity. Founded in the mid-19th century, it has grown rapidly to become an important economic and cultural centre in South-East Asia. The ethnic and cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur is reflected in its architecture, festivals and cuisine.
Places of Interest of Kuala Lumpur
- Torres Petronas: The iconic twin towers are the symbol of Kuala Lumpur. With 452 meters high, they offer an impressive panoramic view of the city from its Skybridge bridge and the observation platform.
- Merdeka Square: The place where Malaysia was declared independent in 1957, surrounded by historic buildings such as Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the Royal Selangor Club.
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building: Built between 1894 and 1897, it combines mogol and Indian architecture. Located in Merdeka Square, it is a symbol of the British colonial era. It is currently the headquarters of the Ministry of Information.
- Masjid Jamek: One of the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur, built between 1908 and 1909. It was the main mosque of Kuala Lumpur until the inauguration of the National Mosque in 1965.
- Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan (The Federal Territory Mosque): Mosque opened in 2000, mixed Ottoman and Malay styles. Located in Jalan Duta. It can house up to 17,000 faithful and has 22 domes.
- Warisan Merdeka Tower:: The highest building in Malaysia and South-East Asia, and the second highest in the world, only over the Burj Khalifa.
- Thean Hou Temple: A beautiful Chinese temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea, Mazu. Its architecture and gardens offer a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
- Petaling Street: also known asChinese, is a vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of the Chinese district of Kuala Lumpur. Full of shops and street posts where you can find clothes, watches, Chinese food and decorative items. The street houses colorful murals and temples like theSri Maha Mariamman TempleandChan See Shu Yuen Temple. This is where I bought the trip.
- Guan Di Temple Chinatown: built in 1888. Dedicated toGuan Di(also known as Guan Yu), a legendary Chinese general known as the “God of War”
- Batu Caves: A set of caves and temples located on a limestone hill. The golden statue of Murugan and the staircase of 272 steps are some of its best known attractions.
- Jalan Alor: street with restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of local and regional dishes. For street food lovers.
Map places to see Kuala Lumpur
Photos of places to see from Kuala Lumpur
- Torres Petronas. Under them you have theKLCC Park.
- Merdeka Square.
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
- Masjid Jamek.
- By taking the picture of the Mosque, at the point I have marked on the map as River of Life, you can see on the right hand side this beautiful mural:
- Warisan Merdeka Tower, seen from different parts of the city.
- Saloma Link (bridge).
- Thean Hou Temple.
- Petaling Street.
- Guan Di Temple Chinatown. Next to Petaling Street.
- Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan (The Federal Territory Mosque).
- Batu Caves. The temple as you see is very nice and is inside a cave, within which you will see nature. Be careful when you climb the stairs, ignore the monkeys and don’t give them food so they don’t listen to you.
Visiting hours
- Torres Petronas: Tuesday to Sunday, 9: 00 AM – 9: 00 PM, last visit 8: 30 PM (closed Monday).
- Merdeka Square: Open 24 hours.
- Batu Caves: Every day, 6: 00 AM – 9: 00 PM.
- Thean Hou Temple: Every day, 8: 00 AM – 10: 00 PM.
Gastronomy of Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur’s cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity. Among the essential dishes are theNasi Lemak,SatayandChar Kway Teow. Don’t forget to try the durian, known as the “king of fruits,” which is very popular in the region.
Events and Festivities of Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, which celebrate the ethnic and cultural diversity of the city. Some of the most prominent events include:
- Thaipusam: A Hindu festival held in Batu Caves, known for its rituals of penance and colorful processions.
- Chinese New Year’s Festival: With parades, fireworks and night markets, it is one of the largest events of the year.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri: Celebration of the end of Ramadan, with banquets and community events.