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Top 18 Best Kuala Lumpur Tour – Food, Art, History And More

Kuala Lumpur is one of our favourite places in Malaysia. We often stop here for a few nights on the way to other spots around the country.

There is a lot to see in Kuala Lumpur. With attractions spread across the city, like the awesome food in Chinatown, the shopping district of Bukit Bintang, Batu Caves and the world famous Petronas Towers, getting around can require a bit of planning.

The easiest way to see it all is by tour, and there are so many options that no matter what your interests are, there is definitely an option for you. This guide covers some of the best tours in Kuala Lumpur. Whether you want to explore the food, the shopping, the culture or all of the above, you’ll find it below!

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Why Book A Kuala Lumpur Tour?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to visit but many of the attractions are spaced far apart, requiring many taxi rides or bus/train/monorail transfers. On the other hand, day tours in Kuala Lumpur are an organised and efficient way to explore the city with less hassle.

Tours are also a great option if you have a stopover and want to explore the city, and you can find Kuala Lumpur tours from the airport for this purpose.

You have the option of doing a private or group tour, and can look at the Kuala Lumpur tour itinerary to find itineraries that match your interest. Private guides may even let you adapt the tour to your liking. Kuala Lumpur tour operators have insiders knowledge and can take you to the best places around town.

Plus, they are rarely expensive, and there are many Kuala Lumpur budget tour options.

Compare All The Best Tours In Kuala Lumpur

Here’s a quick comparison of all your Kuala Lumpur tours packages options.

You can read more about each of these options below.

Best Day Tours Kuala Lumpur

Kuala lumpur city full day tour – best kuala lumpur day tour package.

Kuala Lumpur’s has many attractions spread out across the city. This 7.5 hour one day tour package in Kuala Lumpur ensures you wont miss out on any of the top attractions!

This Malaysia Kuala Lumpur tour package includes hotel pick up in a comfortable and private air-conditioned van and takes you to some of the most visited spots around the city. Batu Caves is included – a must see in Kuala Lumpur, and one of the best places to snap a photo of the colourful steps (and the many monkeys!).

You’ll visit National Mosque, the King’s Palace, Merdeka Square, the National Museum, Chinatown and the vibrant Petaling Street and, of course, the Petronas Towers. Some stops are just brief photo visits, whilst others are longer and offer you time to explore. A visit to Royal Selangor Pewter – the largest of its kind – and Mariamman Temple – KL’s oldest Hindu temple – are also included.

Your guide is there to drive you between destinations and offer some brief history behind each site. This tour also includes a delicious Malaysian or Indian lunch at a local restaurant.

This tour packs a lot in, but it is comfortable and a great way to explore the best of KL!

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options.

Religion Culture And Heritage Half Day Tour – Best Half Day Tour In Kuala Lumpur

There’s few better ways to get acquainted with this city than local tour operators in Kuala Lumpur. This 4 hour Kuala Lumpur walking tour includes hotel pick up and drop off. It’s your cultural pass to this diverse city.

Islam is the dominant religion of Malaysia, but its diverse ethnic groups mean that Buddhist, Hindu and Taoist temples are also found here. This tour package Kuala Lumpur visits some of the oldest religious sites, such as the Taoist Sze Yeh Temple and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, as well as Masjid Jamek and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. You’ll have a wise tour guide in Kuala Lumpur who can provide information on the many different cultural traditions in this city.

As part of this tour you’ll also visit the exquisite Central Market for awesome local souvenirs, as well as Chinatown for the buzzing atmosphere. This tour is one of the best ways to understand and connect to the local culture in all its diversity.

Putrajaya And River Cruise Tour – Top Putrajaya Tour Kuala Lumpur

Putrajaya is Kuala Lumpur’s administrative capital, and it’s fascinating for reasons other than you might expect. There’s some very striking buildings and very few people around!

This is the best tour in Kuala Lumpur to visit Putrajaya in half a day. This half day Kuala Lumpur Putrajaya tour is perfect for getting acquainted with this city and learning about its development and history from your guide. The tour begins at around 9:30am with hotel pickup, and you’ll head straight there. Putrajaya is close to Kuala Lumpur at just a 30 – 45 minute drive away.

Your tour starts with a cruise on the man made lake – a must do when here! You’ll see important sites like the Malaysian Prime Minister’s office, the Putrajaya Government Centre, and the stunning pink and arabesque Putra Mosque.

Your Kuala Lumpur tour guide will drop you back at your hotel at 1pm, giving you the rest of the day to enjoy the attractions in Kuala Lumpur. I very much enjoyed exploring Putrajaya on this tour.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also read more about Putrajaya here.

KL Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Pass – Best Big Bus Tour Kuala Lumpur

One of the most flexible and affordable Kuala Lumpur tour packages is the KL Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. Your pass on the bus is valid for either 24 hour or 48 hours with the bus operating between 9am to 6pm. There are 27 dedicated stops on both the green and red line, with an interchange at Bukit Bintang (KL’s best shopping district). You can start of stop anywhere!

The bus stops at some of the most famous tourist sites around the city like Central Market, KL Tower, Lake Garden, the Petronas Towers, Masjid Jamek, the Bird Park, National Museum and so much more! Bus wait times are around 30 to 40 minutes, and the bus trips also include audio commentary.

This is a super affordable and easy way to get around! Just note that it can be very busy after 4pm, and you may want to finish up before this. It can also be a little frustrating waiting for the next bus at times.

Kuala Lumpur City Tour With 21 Attractions

This 8 hour, one day package tour to Kuala Lumpur offers both an 8:30am or 1pm departure. This is the tour to see the top attractions dotted around the city, and it offers both private and group tour options. The more guests you have, the cheaper it is per person.

This one day package tour in Kuala Lumpur packs a lot in – there are 21 attractions all up. It includes a guided tour of Batu Caves and tickets to KL Tower, KL Gallery and the National Museum. This alone makes it great value!

You’ll see the beautiful architecture of the King’s Palace, go shopping at Central Market and Chinatown, visit Masjid Jamek and Bukit Bintang, visit the chocolate factory, see the Petronas Towers and much more!

You’ll also have an English speaking guide with you to answer questions. Roundtrip transfers are included, so you’ll be dropped back at your hotel when the tour concludes. With tickets to several attractions and all transport included, you get more than what you paid for with this tour. It’s a great value one day tour in Kuala Lumpur!

Kuala Selangor Fireflies Night Tour

If you’re looking for a firefly tour Kuala Lumpur option, we recommend this one! This 6.5 hour tour includes transfers to and from your hotel and takes you to Kuala Selangor for your firefly boat tour Kuala Lumpur. If you take a look at the Kuala Lumpur tour map, you’ll see that Kuala Selangor is north of the city, and approximately a one hour drive away.

The tour includes pickup at around 3:30pm, where you’ll drive to Kota Melawati for either a 20 minute walking tour to Bukit Melawati or a tram service on the weekends. Here, you can explore the historical Fort Altingsburg, and possibly meet with the rare silvered leaf monkeys, before boarding the boat for your Kuala Lumpur fireflies tour. This is an excellent spot to see fireflies having one of the largest colonies in the world.

You’ll also enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant in Kuala Selangor before heading back to your hotel. There is a lot of time spent driving on this tour but there is good commentary there and along the way, and it’s a great Kuala Lumpur tour itinerary for something different!

Sunway Lagoon With Transfers

If you’re looking for day tours of Kuala Lumpur with kids, a visit to Sunway Lagoon is a fabulous choice. Sunway Lagoon is a huge water and theme park, with heaps of waterslides and other attractions. There’s an artificial beach, a zoo, go karts, rides and more. This is spread over 7 parks, each with a different theme.

This is one of the best Kuala Lumpur one day tour package options for visiting Sunway Lagoon. This is because it includes shared round trip transfer from your hotel to Sunway Lagoon and discounted entry into the park. This Sunway Lagoon tour Kuala Lumpur is great value!

If you finish up early at the theme park, you can easily head over to Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall just next door – a huge and modern shopping centre – before taking your transfer back to your hotel.

I highly recommend this Kuala Lumpur package tour if you want to save money on entry by pre-purchasing tickets.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also read more about Sunway Lagoon here.

Genting Highlands And Batu Caves Day Tour

This Genting Highlands and Batu Caves day tour is the perfect day tour from Kuala Lumpur if you want to visit attractions outside the centre with minimum stress. With hotel pick up and drop off, and Awana Skyway tickets sorted, this is the best tour Kuala Lumpur package to Genting Highlands.

From your hotel at around 9am, this tour goes directly to Batu Caves. Here, you can walk the famously steep and colourful steps to the cave. Inside is huge and spacious, and there are numerous temples both outside and inside the cave. Morning is the best time to visit this site, which makes this tour all the more attractive.

After this, you’ll head to Genting Highlands which is just another 30 – 45 minute drive away. Here, you can enjoy the cool mountain air and numerous attractions. This the perfect place to relax, unwind and have fun. Enjoy the shopping, visit the temple at Chin Swee Caves and see the blessed lamps, and enjoy all the other attractions this hill station has to offer.

The tour concludes at 5pm with hotel drop. This is a great option for combing Genting Highlands with a Batu Cave Tour in Kuala Lumpur. Plus, you’ll have a guide that points out attractions along the way, making this one of the sightseeing tours in Kuala Lumpur.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also read more about the Batu Caves here and Genting Highlands here.

Genting Highlands Day Trip

This tour is one of the bus tours from Kuala Lumpur that allows you to spend a full day visiting Genting Highlands and enjoying the numerous attractions. It includes pick up from your hotel between 8:30am and 9:30am, tickets on the Awana Skyway, and return transfer.

Again, the benefit of a tour like this is that you don’t have to fuss around with making your own way to Genting Highlands and organising the SkyWay tickets. It’s all done for you, making the tour and travel from Kuala Lumpur all the more relaxed and enjoyable.

Genting Highlands is less than an hour away from Kuala Lumpur, and your ticket on the Awana Skyway will let you enjoy the ancient rainforest from above. There’s so much to do at Genting Highlands, from the Skytropolis indoor theme park, Genting Premium Outlets, Chin Swee Caves temple and the casino.

This affordable Kuala Lumpur local tour departs at 5:30pm where you can request to be taken back at your hotel or dropped off in the city centre.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also read more about Genting Highlands here.

Historical Melaka Tour With Lunch From Kuala Lumpur

For one of the completely different Kuala Lumpur day tours, head to Melaka. This town is a culturally significant UNESCO World Heritage Site and has Dutch, Portuguese and British history which makes it both fascinating and architecturally beautiful.

Melaka is only a two hour drive away from Kuala Lumpur, and this one day tour Kuala Lumpur includes round transfers from the city centre with an early start at 8am, arriving in Melaka around 10am.

This Kuala Lumpur 1 day tour package is perfect for exploring Melaka as the city is very enjoyable to explore by foot. Included are guided tours of several important sites, such as Chen Hong Teng Chinese Temple, St. Peter’s Church, A’Famosa fortress, Christ Church and the famous Jonker Street. Lunch is also included in this tour.

You get free time to explore after lunch where you can easily fill your time walking around soaking up the atmosphere or taking an optional river cruise. The tour departs Melaka at 4pm for a 6pm arrival in Kuala Lumpur. This is among the best value Malaysia tours from Kuala Lumpur.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also read more about Melaka here.

Taman Negara National Park Join-In Day Tour

Taman Negara is an awesome national park, but it can be difficult to get to. That’s why this Kuala Lumpur day tour itinerary is so attractive – it takes you there and back in one day, straight from your hotel. If you want to visit Taman Negara and fit as much into one day as possible, this is one of the best tour packages in Kuala Lumpur.

This Kuala Lumpur jungle tour has a super early start, departing around 5:30am for the 3.5 hour drive to Taman Negara. Bring breakfast with you and have it on the way.

The first stop at Taman Negara is the Canopy Walkway – the world’s longest suspension bridge! You’ll then hike to Teresek Hill. Whilst this is a 3 hour guided hike, it isn’t arduous and there’s plenty of interesting things to see along the way. It’s possible to spot tigers, elephants and monkeys in this stunning national park, although you’ll mostly just see birds.

Lunch is included in this Kuala Lumpur travel package at an iconic floating restaurant, followed by a visit to a tribal Orang Asli village, where you’ll receive a demonstration of hunting. You’ll arrive there by what’s known as rapid shooting – a thrilling boat ride down the river rapids!

This long Kuala Lumpur bus tour departs Taman Negara at 4:30pm for the drive back to your hotel for a well deserved rest!

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also find more Taman Negara tours here.

Best Food Tours In Kuala Lumpur

Kuala lumpur street food – best kuala lumpur food tour.

Street food is part of the culture of Malaysia. This Kuala Lumpur street food tour is one of the best ways to get connected with the food and culture of Kuala Lumpur and is a particularly good option when you first arrive in the city.

Starting near Chinatown, this 3.5 hour walking morning food tour in Kuala Lumpur begins at 9:15am, and whisks you through the bustling streets. All of your sense will ignite on this tour. There are plenty of highlights including seeing experts handmaking char siew pao steam buns, sampling the famous local teh tarik (which is among the most popular drinks in Malaysia), as well as tasting laksa, roti and the infamous durian if you wish!

This is one of the Kuala Lumpur food tours that offers tourists an insight into everyday Kuala Lumpur culture. It is also kid friendly, so it’s one of the best food tours Kuala Lumpur offers for families.

Whilst food is the highlight, you’ll also hear stories of the past, and see sites that offer insight into this interesting city.

We did this tour with our three kids, so it’s highly recommended for families as well.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also see our full review of this tour including a video of what you’ll see and eay here.

Flavours Of Malaysia (Off The Beaten Track) – Best Street Food Tour Kuala Lumpur

For one of the best local Kuala Lumpur walking tours when it comes to food, we recommend this tour. Starting at 9:30am, this is a four hour tour that takes you to one of the less touristy spots around Kuala Lumpur to sample the most authentic local flavours.

This food walking tour in Kuala Lumpur meets in Chow Kit – well known by locals for its huge wet market. This is an authentic experience filled with unique sights and smells. This tour offers an insight into the the local flavours, where you can learn about the ingredients used, where they’re sourced, and the type of food that is being prepared in this multi-cultural area.

Of course, there’s plenty of tastings along the way with Malay, Chinese, Indonesian and Indian cuisine all on display. The street of Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman also offers some interesting pre-war buildings, and there’s a great value clothing marketing in Chow Kit. This is one of the unique walking tours Kuala Lumpur offers for a truly authentic local experience.

Best Private Tour Kuala Lumpur

Batu caves private tour – best kuala lumpur private tour.

Batu Caves is easy to get to from Sentral Station on the KTM Komuter Train. However, if you’re someone who prefers private tours, this is the one to go for!

There are two tour times offered – 9am to 12pm, and 1:30pm to 4:30pm. This Batu Cave Tour Kuala Lumpur takes you from your hotel directly to Batu Caves. The Hindu temple of Batu Caves is a striking sight with its 272 steep and colourful steps, its statue of Murugan and the numerous temples outside. This private Kuala Lumpur guided tour allows you to get better acquainted with both the natural and human history of this cave temple.

After your visit, you’ll stop at Chong Batik and watch a Batik making demonstration where you can opt to purchase a scarf, as well as the Royal Selangor Pewter Factory to see some of the interesting handiwork displayed here.

Click here to see the latest prices and tour options. You can also read more about the Batu Caves here .

Private Tour: Kuala Lumpur Half Day Shopping, Leisure & SPA Tour

Many tours are mostly about seeing the sites and taking photographs. This tour is a more active way to explore Kuala Lumpur through both shopping and rejuvenation!

In this tour, your private tour guide in Kuala Lumpur takes you to Central Market, one of the top places for handicrafts, antiques and souvenirs, as well as the best spots for shopping and eating around vibrant Chinatown. This tour also includes tickets to the KL Tower Sky Box. This is the best spot to get a panoramic view of the city, and you’ll be able to skip the lines.

Finish up (or start with) a one hour massage, complimented by a ginger cup of tea. Lunch/dinner is also included.

There are two tour times offered 9am and 2pm. The main difference is that the 2pm tour offers dinner, whereas the 9am tour offers lunch. This 6 hour tour is the perfect combination or action and relaxation.

Private Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya Highlights in One Day

Both Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya have some awesome attractions, and it’s possible to explore both cities in one day. This one day tour of Kuala Lumpur is one of the private Kuala Lumpur tour packages that also takes you to both!

This 8 hour tour gives you plenty of options – you can decide where to go, follow the recommended 8 hour tour, or do a combination of both!

A typical one day tour package in Kuala Lumpur could include a visit to Batu Caves, the Petronas Towers, Petaling Street and Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque, whereas The Putra Mosque, Prime Minister’s Office and a river cruise on the Putrajaya Lake are popular attractions in Putrajaya.

Your private tour guide in Kuala Lumpur can also offer their tour recommendations based on your interests.

Plus, you’ll be chauffeured in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. This is the most convenient, comfortable and flexible way to see the best of both cities.

Best Kuala Lumpur Night Tour

Secrets of kl – nightlife, street art & cocktails – best night tour kuala lumpur.

Secrets of KL is a 4 hour long afternoon/night tour, and lets you experience the best food of Kuala Lumpur while also learning about its nightlife.

Beginning at 4pm, this Kuala Lumpur sightseeing tour conveniently meets at Pasar Seni MRT Station which is close to bustling Chinatown. It is an adults-only tour which explores the more hidden aspects of life in Kuala Lumpur.

The focus of these Kuala Lumpur night tours are both Petaling Street and street food. You’ll be introduced to the past heritage of Petaling Street which was a centre for brothels, its recently thriving speakeasies and underground establishments. This is the hidden world of Kuala Lumpur! You’ll also see street art as part of these tours.

These local tours in Kuala Lumpur also include plenty of street food. Rendang and chicken rice are both on the menu, as well as a secret local favourite which is only revealed on the tour. The tour also includes one alcoholic beverage, such as a local cocktail with a Malaysian flare.

Kuala Lumpur Evening Tour with KL Tower Entry and Water Fountain Show – Best Kuala Lumpur By Night Tour

This 4 hour private tour is one of the top Kuala Lumpur guided tours at night. It starts at 5pm with hotel transfers, where you’ll head to several sites including Central Market for shopping, Merdeka Square, Guan Di Temple, Chinatown and the Maha Mariamman Temple.

The highlight of this tour is the light show at Suria KLCC. It can be difficult to know when the light show is on, so doing one of the tours around Petronas Kuala Lumpur is the best way to see it.

This tour visits other important sites too like the river confluence, the Old Quarters and KL Tower (with tickets to the Sky Box included!).

Malaysian cities can be even more exciting at night, and this private 4 hour tour lets you enjoy Kuala Lumpur from a different perspective!

Final Words

We hope this list has helped you get inspired to plan your Kuala Lumpur tour! Whilst there is a lot to see in this diverse city, there are also a lot of tours available. We recommend you do at least one, as a sightseeing tour Kuala Lumpur is an affordable and convenient option for exploring the city.

Kuala Lumpur local tour operators have the best insight into this interesting city, and with so much to see, they are one of the best ways to get around. Enjoy!

Looking for more day trip options from KL? Find our full list here . Read more about everything you can do in Kuala Lumpur here. You can also read our guide of where to stay in Kuala Lumpur here and find our full travel guide to Kuala Lumpur here.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

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Buzzing cities, idyllic islands, exotic ports and lush highlands combine to create magical Malaysia.

Home to a collision of cultures, you can eat roti for breakfast and feast on fragrant curries for dinner; admire mosques in the morning and temples in the afternoon; and visit remote villages as well as towering skyscrapers – it’s all possible in Malaysia.

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Learn more about Malaysia

Best time to visit.

The climate in Malaysia is generally hot and humid throughout the year. Temperatures do not fluctuate much and stay in the 100s F most of the day, dropping back to the mid to high 60s F at night. This makes Malaysia a great place for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing in the sun.

Humidity is higher during the wet season and can be quite oppressive for those not used to it. The wet season changes from coast to coast. From November to April, the wet season hits the east coast of the peninsula and it is dry on the west coast. From May to October, it's dry on the east coast and wet on the west.

Some people of Malaysia observe Ramadan. If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it is important to consider that some restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours during this time.

Learn more about the best time to visit Malaysia

Culture and customs

Malaysia truly is a modern melting pot – with Chinese, Indian, Malay, Eurasian and indigenous groups making up the population. With this cultural diversity comes a mix of religions, customs, foods and languages. Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism and Hinduism are the main religions practiced, although most of the world’s religions are represented somewhere in Malaysia. The Muslim call to prayer, Hindu Festivals and Buddhist ceremonies all coexist with relative peace, with the South-East Asian concept of ‘saving face’ leading most people to strive for harmony.

Regardless of cultural background, elderly people and those of high rank in society (business people, government officials etc.) are afforded much respect. Food plays an important part in daily life, with religious celebrations and holidays characterized by family gatherings and elaborately prepared feasts. Alcohol isn’t a large part of Malaysian society (probably due to the significant Muslim population), but is widely available for purchase and consumption. Experience Malaysian culture for yourself on our 18day Ultimate Adventure.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food , savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. Malaysia’s melting pot of cultural influences is evident in its cuisine.

Things to try in Malaysia

Delicious roti, chicken rice, spicy sambal eggplant and kopi peng (iced coffee).

2. Baba Nonya/Peranaken Cuisine

Fresh spring rolls, babi chin (stewed pork belly) and Mee Siam (rice noodles).

Aromatic curries, cool lassis, delicious daal and sweet fried coconut balls.

Hearty noodle broths, Peking duck pancakes and chrysanthemum tea. Try some of Malaysia's most famous dishes on our 9day Borneo Family Holiday.

Geography and environment

Balmy beaches, fish-filled reefs, wild jungles, verdant highlands, relaxed ports, colorful cities and simple villages – Malaysia has it all. Sharing land borders with Brunei, Indonesia and Thailand , Malaysia’s environment is as diverse as its population. From the urban cityscape of Kuala Lumpur and the colonial charm of Penang, to the old-world streets of Melaka, a journey through Malaysia will reveal changing landscapes and evolving environments. 

While the large cities are typically built-up, busy and full of buzz, Malaysia’s provincial towns and remote highlands remain delightfully relaxed, with people living simple lives based on agriculture, animal husbandry or other small enterprises. With such a rich range of environments, Malaysia offers beaches and islands for swimming, snorkeling and diving; jungles and highlands for trekking and adventuring; and villages and cities for exploration and relaxation. Explore this country's breathtaking landscapes on our 8day Highlights of Malaysia tour.

History and government

Early history.

The first recorded historical mentions of Malaysia date back to 7th and 8th-century Sanskrit and Chinese texts. During the following centuries, Malaysia came under the influence and control of Indonesia, Thailand and India – with the accompanying religions, cuisines and languages spreading in the region. In the 16th century, Malaysia came under the influence of Portuguese and Dutch settlers, who increasingly expanded their reach throughout the region to create the Dutch East Indies. Under this influence, Malaysia did well in trade, and flourished as a result of the economic gains of being located on one of the most important trade routes of the time.

Recent history

During the 19th century, the British took control of the Malaysian Peninsula, with the Federated Malay States being officially formed in 1865. Malaysia remained under British rule until Japan invaded during World War II – but once Japan was defeated in 1945, British rule returned and the Federation of Malay was born in 1948. In 1963, the Federation of Malaya formed with Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah to create Malaysia.

Only two years after, Singapore became an independent state, leaving Malaysia in its current form. In the 1970s, Malaysia’s economy grew rapidly until the late 1990s, when the Asian Financial Crisis slowed economic growth in the region. The economy soon recovered, and Malaysia enjoyed the international exposure that came with hosting the 1998 Commonwealth Games (held in Kuala Lumpur). Currently, Malaysian standards of living continue to rise, and Kuala Lumpur has emerged as one of Asia’s premier cities.

Top 10 culinary experiences in Malaysia

1. baba nonya banquet.

The port town of Melaka is known for its unique Baba Nyonya style food. A fusion of Straits Chinese and Malaysian food (with hints of Portuguese, Thai and Indian), chowing down at a Nyonya restaurant is an elaborate affair filled with spicy flavors and tangy sauces.

2. Savour street eats

The streets of Malaysia are filled with locals pushing street carts selling everything from hand-made roti to fresh fruit, delicious satay and steaming bowls of laksa. Malaysian street food offers convenience, variety and flavor on a budget.

3. Taste some tea

Traditional tea is made a little differently in Malaysia. Order ‘teh tarik’ and watch as your condensed-milk tea is frothed and cooled by being poured dramatically between two metal cups, which are held meters apart.

4. Tuck into a hot curry

Beef Rendang is a Malay culinary favorite and is made at home, served at restaurants and prepared for special occasions. This spicy curry is packed with lemongrass, cinnamon, cloves, chili and melt-in-your-mouth beef — an unforgettable fusion of flavors!

5. Seek out cool city eateries

The hip cafes and bars of Kuala Lumpur are a great place to mix with locals and connect with modern Asian culture. Head to the Jalan Bukit Bintang area in KL and check out the new-age teahouses, cool cafes and international dining options.

6. Down a luscious lassi

With a large Indian population, it’s not hard to find a refreshing Lassi when in Malaysia. Made from yogurt and fresh fruit, sipping a cool Mango Lassi is the ideal antidote to a humid summer’s day.

7. Relish some rice

Chicken–rice is a favorite with locals and travelers alike. Available at small neighborhood eateries, night markets and from street carts, this option is a great, low-cost meal for travelers on the go.

8. Slurp a bowl of laksa

Chicken, prawn, tofu and fish; there are many different varieties of spicy laksa to try while in Malaysia. Noodle types and ingredients may vary around the country - a good excuse to try laksa in every town you visit.

9. Chill out with a coconut

Quench your thirst with a fresh coconut juice. Sold at roadside stalls and on beaches, a straw is simply slipped into a stripped back coconut for a refreshing post-swim pick-me-up.

10. Feast on roti

No visit to Malaysia is complete without encountering roti. Walk down any busy street and the sight of people kneading roti dough at street stalls and shop windows will be common. Often served with lentils, potatoes, onions and rice, roti is an excellent option for vegetarians looking for a meat-free meal.

Malaysia has a shopping experience to suit travelers on all budgets. From dazzling, modern malls and exciting night markets to boutique specialty stores, the opportunity to buy something special is never far away.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Malaysia

1. Kuala Lumpur

The capital’s huge malls offer loads of variety and opportunities to shop. Shoes, bags and accessories are all great buys - from haute couture labels to chic chain-store fashions.

Home to a diverse range of artisans and craftsmen. Browse the markets, galleries and shops to pick up antiques, art and bespoke items. Handcrafted wooden ornaments, leather sandals, vibrant woven bags and antique coins are the best picks.

Boasts an eclectic mix of sleek malls, independent stores, interesting boutiques and open-air street markets. Head to Little India to source Indian-inspired saris, garlands and silver jewelry or stroll along Rope Walk to find one-of-a-kind antiques and treasures.

4. Langkawi

This island has duty-free status, making it a great place to buy fragrances, watches, cameras and other technology. For art lovers, the Craft Cultural Complex showcases locally made fabric, ceramics, baskets and jewelry. Get shopping on our 20day Best of Borneo small group adventure.

Festivals and events

Kuala Lumpur’s Batu Caves light up in honor of the Hindi deity Subramaniam (also known as Lord Murugan). Pilgrims arrive after sunset and watch as brave individuals thread hooks and skewers through their bodies to carry decorative steel arches to the Gods. This is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

Malaysian Grand Prix

For a bit of high-octane fun, see the fastest cars in the world in action at the Malaysian Grand Prix, held near Kuala Lumpur each year.

Ramadan and Eid

Ramadan is observed by the Muslim population of Malaysia. During the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset - refraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. Eid marks the end of fasting with three days of feasting and celebration.

Further reading

Malaysia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Malaysia?

Most nationalities do not need a visa to travel to Malaysia for stays less than three months if the trip is for tourism or business purposes. This includes citizens from Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and South Africa.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 6 June 2023

What's the weather like in Malaysia?

Most of   Malaysia   has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather throughout the year. While the country experiences wet and dry seasons, the line between them is blurred and showers can occur at any time of year. The temperatures in Malaysia are steady, with averages of 73°F to 91°F along the coast and lowlands, and a cooler 57°F to 77°F in the highlands. It’s even colder at higher elevations like   Mt Kinabalu in Borneo , which can see see temps in the low 30s at the summit.

Is tipping customary in Malaysia?

Tipping isn’t expected in Malaysia. Some restaurants include a 10% service fee in bills. Feel free to leave a tip at restaurants or with taxi drivers if you’re feeling generous – it will be appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Malaysia?

The internet is easy to access in Malaysia’s large cities, with internet cafes and WiFi hot spots quite common, especially in tourist spots, hotels and hostels. Regional areas and rural communities might have little to no internet access, so be aware of this before heading out of the city.

Can I use my cell phone while in Malaysia?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in Malaysia’s large cities; however, it may be patchy in regional areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What to wear in Malaysia

Layering is the key to dressing for Malaysia — specifically long, loose, lightweight clothing as it's culturally respectful and will keep you cool in the tropical climate. A light fabric like linen is great for the heat as it absorbs moisture (read: sweat) and dries quickly. You might want to avoid cotton as it takes ages to dry — not ideal for places like  Borneo  where the humidity can be oppressive! Sportswear is also a good option for hot weather.

What are the toilets like in Malaysia?

Malaysian public toilets are a mix of western-style toilets and squat toilets. Up-market hotels and malls will usually have both options, whereas rural areas will almost certainly only have squat toilets. Be aware that soap and paper aren't always supplied, so be prepared and carry your own.

What will it cost for a…?

• Hawker food snack = 7-25 MYR
• Cup of teh tarik (tea) = 5-12 MYR
• Beer in a bar or pub = 8.50 MYR
• Souvenir t-shirt = 10-35 MYR

Can I drink the water in Malaysia?

It's not recommended to drink the tap water in Malaysia. Filtered water is a better option; try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Remember to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Malaysia?

Credit cards are widely accepted by malls, hotels and large restaurants in Malaysia. Smaller guesthouses, shops and cafes may not accept credit cards, so ensure you have enough cash to cover purchases in smaller establishments.

What is ATM access like in Malaysia?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and towns but are far less common in rural and remote areas. Ensure you have enough cash before heading to isolated areas, as ATMs might be sparse.

What public holidays are celebrated in Malaysia?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 22 Jan: Chinese New Year
• 1 Feb: Federal Territory Day
• 21 Apr: Hari Raya Puasa (End of Ramadan)
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 4 May: Wesak Day (Buddha's Birthday)
• 3 Jun: King's Birthday
• 29 Jun: Hari Raya Qurban (Feast of Sacrifice)
• 19 Jul: Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year)
• 31 Aug: Merdeka Day (National Day)
• 12 Nov: Deepavali (Festival of Lights)
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Malaysia public holidays may vary.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Kuala Lumpur

A skyline punctuated by minarets, Mogul-style domes and skyscrapers; colorful, food-stall-lined streets shaded by a leafy canopy of banyan trees – this is Kuala Lumpur.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas

Although the Petronas Towers are taller, the 421m Menara KL, rising from the crest of Bukit Nanas, offers the best city views. The bulb at the top…

Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad

This graceful, onion-domed mosque, designed by British architect AB Hubback, borrows Mogul and Moorish styles with its brick-and-plaster banded minarets…

Thean Hou Temple

Lake Gardens, Brickfields & Bangsar

Sitting atop leafy Robson Heights, this vividly decorated multistorey Chinese temple, dedicated to Thean Hou, the heavenly queen, affords wonderful views…

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Inhabiting a building that's nearly as impressive as its collection, this museum showcases Islamic decorative arts from around the globe. Scale models of…

Lake Gardens – Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park

This 70-hectare lush, beautifully landscaped park is most commonly known by its colonial-era moniker: the Lake Gardens (Tasik Perdana in Malay). This is…

Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

Kuala Lumpur's oldest Chinese temple (1864) was built on the instructions of Kapitan Yap Ah Loy and is dedicated to Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya, two Chinese…

National Visual Arts Gallery

The artworks on display at the NVAG are worth a trip out of central KL for their inventiveness and sheer scale. In rotating exhibitions by regional…

Petronas Towers

Resembling twin silver rockets, the Petronas Towers are the perfect allegory for the meteoric rise of the city from tin-mining shanty town to 21st-century…

Top picks from our travel experts

8 unique things to see and do in kuala lumpur.

Petrosains: The Discovery Centre

Fill an educational few hours at this interactive science discovery centre, which has all sorts of buttons to press and levers to pull. Many of the…

The southern end of Jln Petaling's evolution into a hip ’hood is helped along by this cocktail bar concealed behind a fake toyshop in a building that was…

Bar Trigona

The signature drink at this glittering cocktail bar on level six of the Four Seasons Hotel lives up to its name, which is 'nectar'. Made with light rum,…

Madam Kwan's

Established in 1977 and now a popular local chain with outlets in a number of the city's malls, Madam Kwan's specalises in nasi lemek (rice boiled in…

Rabbit Hole

Not much evidence of Alice or a Wonderland here but it is one of the more convivial bars at the head of KL's rowdiest nightlife strip. There's plenty of…

No Black Tie

Blink and you’d miss this small live-music venue, bar and bistro, hidden as it is behind a grove of bamboo. NBT, as it's known to its faithful patrons, is…

Sri Nirwana Maju

There are far flashier Indian restaurants in Bangsar, but who cares about the decor when you can tuck into food this good and cheap? It serves it all,…

Pavilion KL

Pavilion sets the gold standard in KL's shopping scene. Amid the many familiar international luxury brands, there are branches of chains including COS,…

Lot 10 Hutong

Lot 10 was the first mall to encourage top hawkers to open branches in its basement food court. Popular stalls include Soong Kee, which has served beef…

Central Market

This 1930s art deco building (a former wet market) was rescued from demolition in the 1980s and transformed into a tourist-oriented arts-and-crafts centre…

Wong Ah Wah

Justly famous for its seriously addictive chicken wings, this is an ideal spot for a late-night snack with a bottle of beer. A wide variety of other…

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15 Tours Of Kuala Lumpur: Highest Rated In 2023!

Are you looking for a tour of Kuala Lumpur? You’ve come to the right place! 

If this is your first trip to Kuala Lumpur, then you want to discover the best of what KL offers but you have limited time and wonder which attractions are worth it. 

I grew up in KL and currently live here, so I know the city in and out like the back of my hand. 

My Choice: Best Tour Of Kuala Lumpur: KLCC Petronas Twin Towers And Batu Caves Private Tour

Whether you love to explore the city, prefer nature or enjoy a wild adventure outdoors, you will be spoilt for choice, as KL has something for everyone! 

I’m excited to share my insider tips on the 15 highest-rated Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur tours in this detailed Kuala Lumpur tour guide.

Ready to pick the best Kuala Lumpur packages and make the most out of your KL trip? 

Let’s jump right in! 

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Runner Up For Best Tour Of Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Lumpur Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, from glittering skyscrapers to quaint Kopitiams. 

There’s so much to see but it is possible to squeeze all the highlights on a 1 day trip in KL if you’re short on time. 

Below I share the best Kuala Lumpur day tours for you to choose from: 

Best Kuala Lumpur City Center Tours 

1. klcc petronas twin towers and batu caves private tour  .

 ⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 180 positive reviews!  | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 8 hours 

Why choose this tour? 

It includes every significant landmark that you would want to visit on a city tour in Kuala Lumpur. 

From the glitz and glam of the modern Petronas Twin Towers to the historical monuments like the Old Railway Station and National Monument, it’s a complete city tour in Kuala Lumpur package. 

The attractions are spread out, so having a local guide drive you in the comfort of a private car for a day trip in KL makes it convenient. 

Plus, being chauffeur-driven is a refreshing take on a tour of hop on hop off in Kuala Lumpur. 

If you can only spare 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur, then this KL city tour is for you! 

The KLCC Petronas Twin Towers And Batu Caves Private Tour includes:

• Kuala Lumpur sightseeing and Batu Caves with a private driver
• Petronas Twin Towers entrance tickets 
• Merdeka Square (Independence Square), home to the National Museum 
• Lake Gardens and Central Market 
• Old Railway Station, National Monument, and National Mosque 
• Local English-speaking guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Note: For last-minute bookings, if Petronas Twin Towers tickets are not available then they will replace with Sky Box of KL Tower tour tickets 

What past guests loved about the tour: 

“ This is a very special experience & a nice way to see the sights of KL if you are short on time, as I was.  My guide, Louis, was nothing short of amazing. Not only did he make the airport pickup and drop off easy, but he was also informative, got us to every stop on time, and accommodated some special requests I had (including stopping at the chocolate hall & durian stand).  I highly recommend this tour, especially Louis. KL is a really amazing place, you should not miss this tour to see it efficiently. ” – Meredith C (read more reviews )

2. Kuala Lumpur Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 100 positive reviews!  | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours 

If you love picturesque places like 40% of millennials who choose a travel spot based on its Instagrammability , then you’ll love this city tour of Kuala Lumpur! 

You’ll have a local guide to bring you to KL’s most scenic spots and take Instagram-worthy pictures of you during this one day trip in KL! 

This all-inclusive Kuala Lumpur sightseeing tour includes entrance tickets, transport, and lunch. 

You can even edit and upload your pictures between locations with Wi-Fi in the comfort of your private car as you travel on this day trip around KL. 

It’s a wonderful way to visit the highlights of KL in a personalized tour, especially if you’re visiting for a short period of time and looking for a one day tour of Kuala Lumpur. 

The Kuala Lumpur Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• WiFi on board
• Bottled water
• Entrance tickets 

“ This was such an excellent tour in KL . I booked this tour and was so glad because we covered a lot of ground.  I truly had the best day going around the city with Chen as my tour guide. He was very friendly, knowledgeable, professional, and accommodating. He also has wonderful photography skills and knows the most beautiful places to take pictures.  I am very excited to share them on the ‘Gram and cannot wait to come back to visit KL again. ” – Christina H (read more reviews ) 

3. Authentic Malaysian Cooking Classes  

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With 30 positive reviews!  | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours 

It’s a fun and educational way to experience a Kuala Lumpur food tour! 

Immerse yourself in a Malaysian cooking class to learn the best tips and techniques to recreate a classic Malaysian dish at home. 

This one-of-a-kind KL food tour starts with a day trip in KL to the local market in the morning to source fresh ingredients that you will use in the cooking class. 

The menu usually includes Beef Rendang served with Nasi Lemak and Sambal. However, if you’re vegetarian, you can learn how to make Mushroom Rendang instead! 

Hosted by a team of experienced and passionate cooking instructors, they have perfected the Traditional Malaysian Cooking Class program over the past 15 years. 

So rest assured you’ll be learning from the best! 

Not only that, the cooking class is located in the beautiful compound of Bangunan Sulaiman. You’ll get to visit one of the oldest heritage buildings conveniently located in the heart of KL.  

This cooking class is easily one of my favorite Kuala Lumpur tour packages! 

The Authentic Malaysian Cooking Classes include:

• An individual set of equipment; gas burner stove, countertop, cooking utensils, traditional utensils, mortar & pestle
• Coffee and/or tea

What past guests loved about the experience: 

“ This cooking experience was certainly beyond our expectations. Irene explained step by step how we were going to cook each separate recipe.  Everything was provided from utensils to ingredients to the individual cooking areas and we even had our own recipe book to take home.  The whole staff from owners to chefs to kitchen helpers ALL worked in harmony to provide us with a great learning experience. We highly recommend it! ” – Arforever (read more reviews ) 

4. Cooler Lumpur By Night Vespa Food Tour  

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 60 positive reviews!   | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours 

Going on this KL hop on hop off night tour with a Vespa is a unique way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and delicious food!  

Chauffeur-driven on a Vespa to local food streets, you can taste authentic Chinese, Indian, and Malay delicacies that will keep you coming back for another round of a food tour in Kuala Lumpur. 

Knowledgeable and friendly local guides lead this KL night tour. They will ensure you’re safe and comfortable zipping around the crowded streets of KL. 

Riding on the Vespa cuts down your travel time, so you pack in heaps of action in just 4 hours on this fun tour in Kuala Lumpur package. 

If you want to have a cool experience and discover the sights and tastes of KL after dark, you will enjoy this Vespa night tour in Kuala Lumpur! 

The Cooler Lumpur By Night Vespa Food Tour includes:

• Vespa scooter with driver
• Private transportation

“ From pickup at our hotel to drop off we had a great experience! This tour was one of the best we’ve been on!! The food, history, and information about KL were on point!  We had some rain, but they were prepared with ponchos for us. So many good things to taste and experience! Such a fun night! You should absolutely book this tour! ” – Sally D (read more reviews ) 

Best Kuala Lumpur Outskirt Excursions 

I’ve shared some of the best KL travel tours in the city center with you, but did you know that there are fantastic Kuala Lumpur excursions just a few hours away? 

Whether you’re looking for quick getaways from Kuala Lumpur or exciting day trips from Kuala Lumpur, you’ll find the ideal tour package in Kuala Lumpur that best suits you. 

Below are some of the exciting Malaysia tours from Kuala Lumpur for you to venture into: 

5. Guided Eco Ride Segway Tour At Putrajaya  

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 40 positive reviews!  | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours 

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to go on a KL walking tour without actually walking? 

Time to jazz up your Kuala Lumpur sightseeing tours with this easy and exciting Segway tour at Putrajaya! 

Located 25 miles south of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya is just a short trip near KL by car. 

Putrajaya is the administrative capital of Malaysia and is filled with unique landmarks, scenic bridges, and charming communal gardens. 

With so many attractions, it surely makes an exciting place to visit and an enticing tour package in Kuala Lumpur. 

Led by a friendly local guide, you will explore hidden gems in the futuristic city on an electric InMotion transporter. 

On this incredible Kuala Lumpur guided tour, you’ll have lots of fun with the wind in your face! 

Reserve your spot today to explore a different part of Kuala Lumpur in a one day trip. 

The Guided Eco Ride Segway Tour At Putrajaya includes:

• All taxes, fees, and handling charges
• Driver/guide
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan

“ Nick was a very experienced guide, patient in teaching us to ride the segway and peppering our riding experience with many little tales and interesting facts about Putrajaya. The ride duration was just right. ” – Li Josephine (read more reviews ) 

6. Batu Caves Tour With Elephant Sanctuary And Fireflies Park  

⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 25 positive reviews!    | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 

This tour around Kuala Lumpur brings you to the popular attraction Batu Caves and takes you to underrated tourist spots such as the Elephant Sanctuary and Fireflies Park! 

Batu Caves is a must-visit on your Kuala Lumpur tour. A focal point for Hindu Malaysians, it is a limestone hill with a series of caves and temples that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. 

The Elephant Sanctuary is a treasured park in Malaysia where you’ll get to witness the majestic grace of the elephants firsthand. Feeding the elephants will set you up for a memorable experience during your one day trip outside KL. 

On the tour’s last stop, you’ll see fireflies in Kuala Lumpur. Being surrounded by fireflies is a magical experience; there’s just something ethereal about it! 

With all the activities packed in a 1 day trip near KL, this makes it one of the most attractive Kuala Lumpur sightseeing packages! 

The Batu Caves Tour With Elephant Sanctuary And Fireflies Park includes:

• Lunch and dinner 
• Driver and guide

“ This tour is an absolute must-do if you are limited on time in Kuala Lumpur or Malaysia as a whole.  The day started off with a hotel pick-up with Mr. John and we went to numerous locations throughout the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur including the Elephant Sanctuary, Batu Caves, and Deer Land!  Mr. John, my private tour guide, was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and knew his way around the city! For this reason, and the great trip overall, I am giving this experience 5 / 5 stars! ” – Rokas D (read more reviews ) 

7. Sky Mirror Experiences At Kuala Selangor

⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours 

The Sky Mirror is the best-kept secret of Kuala Lumpur tours and travels! 

Located near the seaside enclave of Kuala Selangor, it’s just a short drive and makes one of the most scenic Kuala Lumpur day trips. 

Make a half day trip from KL to this Instagram-worthy spot and you’ll have fun taking photos in the water with a clear blue sky and the blue sea as the backdrop. 

The unique scenery depends on tidal water movement as the sandbank in the middle of the sea becomes exposed during low tide. During low tide, the still water reflects the sky perfectly! 

While you’re there, make sure to notice the marine life too, such as tiny crabs, baby clams, and beautiful shells. 

If you’re looking for a memorable experience, then book this Kuala Lumpur travel package! 

The Sky Mirror Experiences At Kuala Selangor include:

• English-speaking driver
• Boat ride ticket to Sky Mirror
• Boat ride insurance is provided by the operator

“It was a fun-filled experience at Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor ! Great experience and great people! Special thanks to our tour guide Jeffrey! We will definitely be back to KL for more fun and memories! ” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews ) 

8. Cameron Highlands 3 Days 2 Nights Private Tour

⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 days 

A nice change of scenery from a Kuala Lumpur city tour, this excursion to Cameron Highlands is worth a trip! 

Located just a few hours from the city, Cameron Highlands is a pleasant place to visit. 

You can explore the stunning Boh Tea Plantation, hike in the Mossy Forest, or pick strawberries at the Raju Hill Strawberry Farm. 

If you’re traveling with young kids, it is possible to make a family day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands. 

But I recommend making a weekend getaway for 3 days and 2 nights instead of a KL day trip so you can travel at a slower pace and take your time to enjoy a different side of Malaysia. 

The best part of this Kuala Lumpur holiday package is that the tours, transfers, and activities are all arranged by your private guide. 

The peace of mind and convenience this tour provides makes it one of the best luxury tours in Kuala Lumpur. 

The Cameron Highlands 3 Days 2 Nights Private Tour includes:

• Highway toll fees, petrol, and driver’s accommodation
• Dinner transfer for 2 nights
• Lunch for 3 days 

“ We had a very nice trip with Mikael, who is very friendly and professional. His vehicle was clean and comfortable for our family of young children. That was our very first trip to Malaysia and the impressions were fantastic.  Cameron is a perfect place for nature lovers and the cool weather made the trip more enjoyable. Will definitely recommend this to family and friends. ” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer, (read more reviews ) 

9. Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 10 positive reviews!  | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours 

With this Malacca city tour from Kuala Lumpur, you’re all set for a picture-perfect holiday! 

Melaka, as we Malaysians call the small state south of Kuala Lumpur, is a great destination and makes the best day trip from KL for a quick getaway. 

A refreshing change from the typical day tour in Kuala Lumpur, this tour takes you to the most Instagram-worthy spots in Melaka . 

It’s a scenic place rich with history, culture, and colonial buildings. Walking through the iconic Jonker Street, you’ll also be able to shop for local crafts.

Making a Melaka day trip from KL is one of my personal favorite weekend activities, thanks to the yummy local cuisine. 

Want a pro tip? It is also well known for its Nyonya food, so if you want to taste the best Nyonya food in Melaka, check out this article I wrote. 

Get ready to say cheese on your one day trip from Kuala Lumpur and book this tour to Melaka today! 

The Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots includes:

• All fees and taxes
• Entrance fees 

“ Highly recommend doing this tour if you want to see a different part of Malaysia. After doing the KL tour, I had high expectations which were exceeded!  Janice our guide took us to all the best spots for photos, was so friendly and felt like we were traveling with a friend! Thanks again for making our holiday so memorable. ” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer, (read more reviews ) 

10. Silver Leaf Monkeys And Firefly Tour With Boat Ride And Seafood Dinner

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours 

This tour on a KL one day trip allows you to get to know wildlife you won’t find anywhere else in the world! 

On one of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur, you can get close to silver leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques. 

The placid silver leaf monkeys are gentle and playful but the long-tailed macaques can be a bit mischievous. 

Another highlight of the tour is a visit to one of the largest firefly colonies in the world at the Firefly Park in Kampung Kuantan. 

Here you get to bask in the enchanting glimmer of ‘kelip-kelip,’ as the locals fondly call them. Then, to top it all off, you get to have a fresh seafood dinner at the end. 

If you only have 6 hours in Kuala Lumpur and you’re looking for a memorable experience, then you need to book this package tour in Kuala Lumpur! 

The Silver Leaf Monkeys And Firefly Tour With Boat Ride And Seafood Dinner includes:

• Set seafood dinner
• All entrance fees

“ Had an amazing experience thanks to VJ! The silver leaf monkeys were so adorable and one kissed me on the cheek.  These were wild monkeys so truly a once in a lifetime experience ! Dinner was delicious and the fireflies were also unforgettable! Highly recommended! ” – Chatnoir543 (read more reviews ) 

11. Genting Highland: Private Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur

⭐ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours 

Are you planning a day trip to Genting Highlands from Kuala Lumpur? Then this tour is perfect for you! 

Just a short day trip from KL, Genting Highlands is a great place to escape the heat in the city and enjoy the cool weather in the surrounding hills. 

You’ll begin the tour with a scenic drive along the mountains. Then, you’ll get to ride on Southeast Asia’s fastest and longest cable car while admiring the panoramic view of the tropical rainforest below you. 

Once you reach the top, there are plenty of restaurants to try. There is also Genting Premium Outlet for a quick shopping spree, or you can enjoy the theme park for fun rides.

Look no further; this is the best Genting tour package from Kuala Lumpur! 

The Genting Highland: Private Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur includes:

• Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Kuala Lumpur or Petaling Jaya
• Transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Return ticket for the Genting Skyway cable car

“ It’s a very nice tour and our guide Kathir has been most helpful and kind to drive along the way. It’s a great day! ” – Cherry (read more reviews ) 

Best Kuala Lumpur Outdoor Adventure Tours 

The day tours in Kuala Lumpur city and excursions to the surrounding areas are great, but your travel to Kuala Lumpur is incomplete without an outdoor adventure! 

I’ve curated a list of adventurous activities that you must try and most of them are just a one day trip from KL. 

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or enjoy being in nature, you’ll be glad to book at least one package tour to a Kuala Lumpur adventure outdoors below: 

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12. ATV Adventure Ride Park At Kampung Kemensah  

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours 

This tour takes you on a thrilling ride at the ATV Adventure Park in Kampung Kemensah. 

A short half hour drive from KL city center, you’ll find lush rainforests and hills that are superb for an outdoor adventure! 

Designed for adrenaline junkies, you can get a dose of heart-pumping action by driving the ATV off-road on bumpy and rocky terrain. 

Whether your choice of destination is the scenic Hulu Kelang Dam or the gorgeous Sofea Jane waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip, you can expect to zoom through scenic trails in the lush jungle.

If you’re concerned about safety, don’t worry, as your guides are established Kuala Lumpur tour operators. You’ll be safe as they help you navigate the terrain. 

Bring extra clothes, towels, and shoes to change after! You’ll get dirty going through muddy trails. They have shower facilities available for you to freshen up. 

Having been to the ATV Adventure Park twice myself, this tour is easily the best Kuala Lumpur tour package for fellow adventurers! 

The ATV Adventure Ride Park At Kampung Kemensah includes:

• Offroad ride by ATV
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (within 1 km radius of Kuala Lumpur City Centre)

“ What a fun day out. The guides were very friendly and supportive in guiding the whole group through the course. The waterfall stop was magical. ” – Angela B (read more reviews ) 

13. Flyboard Experience At Putrajaya  

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 

If you are a thrill-seeker and love outdoor adventures like me, then you’ll enjoy Flyboarding! 

This water sport takes you on a wild ride above water as you hover in the air and bravely try out stunts on water jets. 

It’s the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner hero as you can surf in the air, twirl, swerve or even dive if you feel confident! 

Having guided more than 3000 adventure enthusiasts, your professional instructors will teach you how to maneuver the Flyboard and ensure you stay safe while having fun. 

The watersport center is in Putrajaya, a short trip from KL by car. 

Flyboarding is a refreshing take on your typical local tour in Kuala Lumpur, so make sure to book this noteworthy Kuala Lumpur package for an unforgettable experience!  

The Flyboard Experience At Putrajaya includes:

• 30 minutes of flight time for each person, with guidance from a certified Flyboard instructor
• 10 minutes of safety briefing and ground instruction on how to steer and maneuver the Flyboard
• Helmet and life jacket (US Coast Guard Approved)

“ We’ve never done flyboarding before and it turned out to be quite an adventure. The thrill of hovering above ground powered by downward thrust like wearing an Ironman suit was surreal. The instructors were patient and we could start hovering during the session.  Overall, it’s a great confidence booster and having an activity outdoors is always better than just doing shopping and sightseeing while touring. The personal experience is also a great topic to share during table talk. ” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews ) 

14. Day Tour To Taman Negara Rainforest  

⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars- With more than 35 positive reviews!  | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours 

Maybe your ideal Kuala Lumpur vacation consists of spending time in the wilderness and jungle trekking. 

Then this exciting day tour from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara is for you! 

Taman Negara is a vast national park in Malaysia and the sprawling tropical rainforest is home to endangered animals like elephants, tapirs, and tigers. If you’re lucky, you might spot enormous Rafflesia flowers. 

During this KL day tour, you’ll go on a canopy walk with your guide to learn about the abundant flora and fauna. 

The hike is quite vigorous, so be prepared with suitable shoes and bring an extra set of clothes to change into before returning to the city. 

You also get to tour a Kuala Lumpur gem with a visit to the nearby indigenous village, where you can learn about the local culture firsthand. 

If you’re looking for Kuala Lumpur tours or packages curated for nature lovers that are just a 1 day trip from KL, then book this tour now! 

The Day Tour To Taman Negara Rainforest includes:

• Lunch and round-trip hotel transport provided
• Taman Negara nature guide 
• Park permits and forestry boat for visit to aborigine village

“ Fantastic trip, worth the investment of the day during our holiday and great value.  The tour guide in the forest was also fantastic, very friendly, attentive and knowledgeable and you could chat and ask any questions and get a real understanding of the forest, the people and the wildlife.  The trip down the river to see the aboriginal village was enthralling and such a privilege to be able to do. Brilliant tour, one of the best we have ever done. ” – Craig S (read more reviews ) 

15. Magical River Trek To Waterfall   

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 190 positive reviews!   ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours 

Liven up your average Kuala Lumpur walking tour by trekking through the beautiful rainforests of Malaysia instead! 

Immersing yourself in the lush and tranquil greenery is a nice change once you’ve had enough of the bustling city tour in Kuala Lumpur. 

On this trek, you can expect to cross crystal-clear rivers and navigate bamboo thickets before reaching a magical multi-tiered waterfall. 

Imagine swimming in the refreshing water and letting the cascading water massage your back after the hike! 

Your helpful and knowledgeable KL tour guide will take the time to let you truly enjoy the tropical paradise and share stories about the animals and flora teeming in the jungle. After all, they are part of an established tour company in Kuala Lumpur. 

This tour on a one day trip near KL includes delicious Malaysian breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as hotel pick-up and drop-off. 

Trust me, it’s a hidden gem in the list of Kuala Lumpur attractions – so don’t miss out and book this unique Kuala Lumpur package tour today! 

The Magical River Trek To Waterfall includes:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 
• Snacks and bottled water 
• Private tour

“ This was an amazing experience and we loved every part of it. It was really cool to swim by the waterfall after hiking through the jungle. Chen was a great guide, really friendly, and planned the day out including the food stops really well.  The food stops themselves were fantastic, some of the best food we had whilst in Malaysia. During the trek, he would stop to explain some of the fauna and even Malaysian history, which was all very interesting.  Would highly recommend this tour to anyone who enjoys the outdoors. ” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews ) 

What To Pack For A Tour To Kuala Lumpur ?

The weather in KL is generally hot and humid all year round, but depending on when you visit, you might get caught in the rainy season, which is usually from November to February. 

Whether you’re planning a short 1 day trip in KL or having an extended stay, these are the essentials I recommend for you to pack:  

• Collapsible water bottle  

• Lightweight rain jacket 

• Travel umbrella

• Comfortable sandals

• Lightweight pants  

• Breathable shirt  

• Insect repellant

FAQS On The BEST Tour Of Kuala Lumpur

How many days in kuala lumpur is enough .

Wondering how many days in Kuala Lumpur is enough? 3 days in Kuala Lumpur is enough to experience both the modernity and tradition that the Malaysian capital offers.

With the best mix of modern and traditional worlds, KL has long been established as a favorite for Southeast Asian travel itineraries.  

Is It Worth Visiting Kuala Lumpur? 

So is KL worth visiting? Absolutely! Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and is a classic stop on every traveler’s itinerary visiting Southeast Asia. 

With so many top attractions to visit, check out this travel guide on the best things to do in KL, where to stay, and how to get around!

Is 4 Days Enough In Kuala Lumpur? 

Is 4 days enough in Kuala Lumpur? Of course! Four or five days is enough time to explore Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings. 

As part of a longer itinerary with multiple countries in Asia, a short stay in Malaysia is possible. Plus, it is best to maximize your time by focusing on one region. 

Is 2 Days Enough In Kuala Lumpur? 

Yes! 2 days in Kuala Lumpur is sufficient time to explore the city’s best bits! 

You might not see all that the vibrant Malaysian capital has to offer but you can visit the best attractions, taste delicious food, and experience local culture in a two day itinerary. 

Ready For An Amazing Adventure On Your Tour In Kuala Lumpur ? 

Well, there you have it! 

A round-up of the best tours in Kuala Lumpur that includes a mix of places to discover in the city center, excursions to the outskirts of KL, and outdoor adventures. 

I guarantee you will be thrilled to discover that KL has so much to offer, from the dazzling skyscrapers to the lush rainforests. To top it off, KL is home to some of the best food in Asia. 

Now the only thing left to do is book your top choice of tour packages in Kuala Lumpur! 

Have fun in KL and if you found this tour guide of Kuala Lumpur helpful, make sure to share it with your friends 🙂

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Hi there. My name is Aisha. Founder and owner of Women Wandering Beyond.

Learning how to adventure and explore through the world transformed my life and helped me become a happier person.

I want to help you do the same. My female adventure travel site is dedicated to helping women travel more, step outside their comfort zone and experience wonders of the world beyond their wildest dreams!

Ladies, we are going on an adventure!

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5 places to visit in kuala lumpur.

Here are a few amazing places to explore in Kuala Lumpur which are perfect for your vacation:

1. Petronas Twin Towers

What’s Special: The Islamic-inspired architecture and the tallest twin tower in the world

Nearby Attractions: KLCC Park, Menara Kuala Lumpur

Timings: 9 am to 9 pm (Monday closed)

Distance From City: 0 km

Transportation Options: Taxi, Buses, KL Monorail, Mass Rapid Transit

The town towers in Kuala Lumpur are a landmark building that puts Kuala Lumpur right on the global map. The skyscraper was completed in 1998 and till 2004, it was the highest building in the world.

2. Batu Caves

What’s Special: The Hindu temple within the cave premises

Nearby Attractions: Gallery of Indian Art, P Ramlee Memorial

Timings: 6 am to 9 pm

Distance From City: 16 km

Transportation Options: Taxi, Buses, Mass Rapid Transit

Batu Caves are a limestone hill with a series of caves and temples located in the Gombak region of Kuala Lumpur. The hill was originally named as “Kapal Tanggang”.

3. Menara Kuala Lumpur

What’s Special: The panoramic city views

Nearby Attractions: Sultan Abdul Samad Building, KL Forest Eco Park

Timings: 9:30 am to 10 pm

Distance From City: 3 km

The Kuala Lumpur Tower or Menara is a communications tower located in the central region of the city. It is another signature building in the city. The 7th tallest freestanding tower has viewing pods from where you can witness the entire city.

4. Merdeka Square

What’s Special: Inside is built the tallest flagpole in the world

Nearby Attractions: Masjid Jamek of Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Art Gallery

Timings: Always open

Distance From City: 2 km

Merdeka Square is a historic square area situated near the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Literally translating to “Independence Square”, it was otherwise known as the “Selangor Club Padang”. The area is basically a giant field full of perfectly manicured green lawns.

5. Taman Burung Kuala Lumpur

What’s Special: The calm and quiet atmosphere

Nearby Attractions: Royal Malaysia Police Museum, Deer Park, National Museum of Malaysia

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

An animal park consisting mostly of birds is a 21 acre public aviary popular enough to attract more than 2 lakh visitors annually. This is a place to rest and unwind with nature.

How To Reach Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and therefore is the most accessible place in the country. The Kuala Lumpur International Airport located in Sepang is approximately 50 kilometres south of the city centre. It boasts modern and sophisticated facilities and connects over 40 international airlines. The Malaysian Airlines is the national carrier which has its base at the airport.

Best Time To Visit Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur lies close to the equator and therefore has a tropical climate. However, the city experiences plenty of rain too. Having said that May to July as well as December to February are the most pleasant times and ideally the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur.

What Are The Highlights Of A Kuala Lumpur Excursion?

This sultry capital is set against a beautiful backdrop of tropical jungle covered with leafy banyan trees. A vibrant mix of mosques and temples as well as the country’s Malay, Chinese, and Indian diaspora, Kuala Lumpur is home to the Petronas Towers which kept the title of the world’s tallest building before Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Featuring a wonderful contemporary-art and design scene, Kuala Lumpur or KL (as the locals call it) is one of the top attractions in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur travel packages usually include an itinerary of up to 5 days to explore all major tourist places in Kuala Lumpur.

The Malaysian capital is rated globally as an Alpha City, owing to its sudden economic growth and cultural heritage. This famous travel destination in Southeast Asia offers travelers a dizzying array of attributes such as uber-cosmopolitan lifestyle, rich history, a blend of cultures, upscale shopping centers, and eclectic cuisine. A trip to Kuala Lumpur is incomplete without eating street food and shopping in Kuala Lumpur. Commonly known as 'KL', the city is truly a sight to behold.

Where Can One Have The Best Tourist Experiences In Kuala Lumpur?

A visit to the Old City Centre or Old Town of Kuala Lumpur allows travelers an insight into the traditional setting of the region. Other major tourist places in KL to be included in the tour itinerary of Kuala Lumpur holiday packages are Golden Triangle, Chow Kit, Bangsar, Damansara, and Ampang. Since the British ruled the city in the 19th century, the city has been the place of history-defining moments for Malaysia. A Kuala Lumpur trip isn’t complete without touring and eating your way through Kuala Lumpur, which also happens to be the favorite pastimes of the locals. The city enjoys a unique mix of food, shopping, and nightlife like no other place in Southeast Asia.

Travelers can spend all day wandering in glitzy air-conditioned malls like Pavilion Kuala Lumpur or Suria KLCC to look for a bargain on designer goods. For lesser-known labels and thrift shopping, head to Bangsar Sunday Market and Publika. Furthermore, hunt for the Central Market for handmade souvenirs and local handicrafts. Book Kuala Lumpur package tour with airfare and enjoy shopping in a remarkable destination. The city retains its charm with its diversity and multiculturalism. The old quarter of Kuala Lumpur is replete with landmarks that hint at its colonial past as well as its modern financial ambitions.

Comprising the list of world-famous attractions that one cannot afford to miss out on, our Kuala Lumpur holiday tour packages are not just affordable but hassle-free too. For, we always strive to provide our customers with a memorable experience, these tour packages include airport transfers, best accommodations and much more.

Browse through our list of Kuala Lumpur tour packages below, pick an itinerary or customize the packages as per personal requirements and make Kuala Lumpur holidays truly unforgettable.

Bestselling Kuala Lumpur Tour Packages

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Packages for other cities in Malaysia

Duration ( in Days )

Budget Per Person ( in Rs. )

Hotel Star Rating

Showing 145 Kuala Lumpur Tour Packages

A Delightful Singapore and Malaysia Tour Package

₹ 51,000/- ₹ 54,400/-.

Per Person on twin sharing

• Night Safari
• Sentosa Island
• Sightseeing
• Universal Studios
• KL Tower Night Tour
• Genting Highlands

Hotel included in package:

• Singapore (3D)
• Kuala Lumpur (4D)

Take up  Singapore packages  if you w....

Upto 3 Stars

Awesome Singapore and Malaysia Tour Package

₹ 35,998/- ₹ 39,998/-.

• Gardens by the Bay
• Kuala Lumpur (3D)

Planning a trip with family or friends to Singapore? Book our Singapore itinerary for 6....

Upto 4 Stars

Malaysia: A Trip To The Heart Of Asia

₹ 20,000/- ₹ 21,978/-.

• Leisure Day
• Scuba Diving
• Langkawi (2D)

Singapore Malaysia Tour Package For 4 Nights 5 Days

₹ 41,000/- ₹ 44,086/-.

• KL twin Towers
• Singapore (2D)

Singapore is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world and is located past t....

Idyllic Malaysia Tour Package

₹ 26,000/- ₹ 28,571/-.

• Island Hopping
• Pulau Dayang Bunting
• Beras Basah Island
• Petronas Twin Towers

Explore the best of Malaysia with this 4 nights, 5 days Malaysia tour package.

Splendid Kuala Lumpur Tour Package

₹ 19,000/- ₹ 20,879/-

The 3 days and 2 nights Kuala Lumpur tour package is a perfect weekend....

Singapore Malaysia Tour Package with Cruise

₹ 90,000/- ₹ 96,774/-.

• Sentosa Island tour
• Adventure Activities
• Singapore (5D)

Singapore is a country which is situated in South East Asia. Being a small island natio....

Upto 5 Stars

Sublime Singapore And Malaysia Honeymoon Package

₹ 45,000/- ₹ 48,797/-.

Booking a Singapore honeymoon package for your first romantic trip together relieves yo....

Upto 2 Stars

Singapore, Malaysia and Langkawi Honeymoon Package

₹ 65,000/- ₹ 73,034/-.

• Kuala Lumpur (2D)
• Langkawi (3D)

Looking for an exotic destination for a romantic rendezvous? Create an album of refresh....

Thrilling Kuala Lumpur Sightseeing Tour Package

₹ 16,000/- ₹ 17,582/-

• Hill Station
• Hill station

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is the biggest city in the country with a divers....

Remarkable Singapore Malaysia Honeymoon Package

₹ 55,000/- ₹ 61,798/-.

With this 6 nights, 7 days Singapore Malaysia honeymoon package an ord....

Malaysia 4 Days Trip Package

₹ 15,000/- ₹ 16,129/-.

• Cable Car Ride

Malaysia is a country which has got some- tasseled coastlines, oceans, isles, white san....

Thrilling Malaysia Tour Package

₹ 56,000/- ₹ 61,538/-.

Malaysia, stands by its title of “Truly Asia” by the diversity it offers in....

Marvelous Malaysia Tour Package

• Hill Resort

Grab this well-designed 2 nights, 3 days Malaysia tour package for a t....

Idyllic Malaysia Family Package

₹ 7,000/- ₹ 7,692/-.

• Petronas Towers
• Best sellers

The iconic island country of Malaysia beckons family travelers to embark on a rejuvenat....

Exotic Kuala Lumpur Tour Package

₹ 20,000/- ₹ 21,739/-.

Alluring Singapore Malaysia Thailand Bangkok Tour Package

₹ 92,000/- ₹ 101,099/-.

• Marine Park
• Safari World
• Pattaya (2D)
• Bangkok (2D)

This Singapore Malaysia Thailand Bangkok Tour Package by Travel Triang....

Malaysia Tour Package In Summer

₹ 45,699/- ₹ 49,673/-.

• Water Sports
• Langkawi (4D)

Malaysia is a country which is situated in the Southeast region of Asia. This country i....

Incredible Singapore and Malaysia Honeymoon Package

₹ 61,000/- ₹ 69,318/-.

Get ready to enjoy a blissful trip with this customizable 5 nights 6 days Singa....

Splendid Singapore Package

₹ 60,000/- ₹ 65,934/-.

Travel Triangle exclusively brings to you Singapore in 6 days package ....

Magnificent Singapore And Malaysia Summer Honeymoon Package

₹ 88,000/- ₹ 96,148/-.

Set off to discover cultural roots of South Asia with a Singapore Malaysia summ....

Exhilarating Malaysia Tour Package

₹ 58,000/- ₹ 63,736/-.

Malaysia, every traveler’s go-to destination, is the culmination of everything on....

Amazing Kuala Lumpur Tour Package

₹ 18,000/- ₹ 19,780/-.

The largest city as well as the national capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a paradis....

Kaleidoscopic Singapore Malaysia Thailand Hong Kong Tour Package

₹ 165,000/- ₹ 181,319/-.

• Paragliding
• Scenic Landscapes
• Hong Kong (4D)

With the best of its destinations, come to visit some amazing places in Asia and enjoy ....

Malaysia 6 Days Trip Package

₹ 23,999/- ₹ 25,531/-.

• Watersports
• Kuala Lumpur (1D)
• Malaysia (1D)

Sometimes you need to take a break from your busy schedule to enjoy the perfect vacatio....

Kuala Lumpur Tour Packages by Theme

Hotels in kuala lumpur by star ratings, hotels in kuala lumpur by themes, property types in kuala lumpur, faqs for kuala lumpur, how much is a tour of kuala lumpur.

For a 4 nights & 5 days trip, you need to shell out around INR 20,000 per person. The cost may go up to INR 64,000 per person if you plan a visit of 7 nights and 8 days. Most of the packages are inclusive of all the essential elements like accommodation, sightseeing, transfers, and meals. Most of the packages are inclusive of all the essential elements like accommodation, sightseeing, transfers, and meals. You can also opt for a customisable package if you want to make changes as per your preferences.

How many days are enough to visit Kuala Lumpur?

To enjoy a wonderful Kuala Lumpur trip, you need to plan a trip of 4-5 days. The destination has so much to offer for adults as well as kids. This trip would allow you to witness the best of the place. Moreover, you can indulge in numerous adventure activities if you wish to.

What are the best Kuala Lumpur tour packages offered by TravelTriangle?

Below listed are some of the best Kuala Lumpur tour packages offered by us:

Splendid Malaysia Sightseeing Tour Packages

Is Kuala Lumpur a safe place to visit?

KL is a safe place to visit when compared with other cities in Southeast Asia. However, like any other crowded city in the world, travelers should take common precautions and avoid visiting sensitive areas.

Do the locals in Kuala Lumpur understand English?

Yes, Kuala Lumpur is home to a cosmopolitan population. People in KL generally speak good English. Most street signs and tourist information is written in both English and the local language.

What are the popular things to do in Kuala Lumpur?

Sampling Malaysian cuisine, bargaining for souvenirs at Central Market, admiring cityscape from the top of Petronas Towers, learning about local culture at National Museum, exploring traditional Malay wooden houses at Kampung Baru, and rock climbing at Batu Caves are popular things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

How do I reach Kuala Lumpur from India?

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is regularly served by direct flights from major cities in India such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. The average flight duration between Delhi and Kuala Lumpur is about 5 hours and 30 minutes.

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• Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

Let the experts guide you to the best of this mesmerizing destination

Perdana Botanical Garden In Kuala Lumpur

Formerly known as Lake Gardens or Taman Tasik Perdana, the Perdana Botanical Garden is nestled in the heritage park of the city of Kuala Lumpur. The sprawling 93 hectare of botanical collection has a proximity to various attractions, including the National Museum. Originally established as a recreational park, it was eventu...

• Botanical Garden
• Ideal for friends
• Ideal for families

Butterfly Park In Kuala Lumpur

Sprawling over an area of 8000 sq. ft., Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park is the largest and one of the best butterfly parks in the world. Snuggled on the edge of Lake Gardens and at a distance of 10 minutes from downtown KL city, it is a paradise of colorful butterflies. Housing more than 5000 butterflies of around 120 species a...

• Butterfly Park

National Mosque In Kuala Lumpur

Situated beside the Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur, the National Mosque of Malaysia, also known as ‘Masjid Negara’ is considered as the nation-wide symbol of Islamic religion. Sprawling over 13 acres of land, this mosque can accommodate a minimum of 15,000 people. It is a focal point of muslim community in KL, and is believed...

• National Mosque

Islamic Arts Museum In Kuala Lumpur

Housing an extensive collection of over 7000 Islamic artefacts from around the world, Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM) is considered as one of the best attractions to explore in Kuala Lumpur. Located within the proximity to Lake Gardens, it is famed as the largest museum of Islamic art in Southeast Asia. Sprawling over a...

Sultan Abdul Samad Building In Kuala Lumpur

Acting as a home to the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture of Malaysia, Sultan Abdul Samad Building is one of the most important tourist attractions of Kuala Lumpur. The building is located just beside the old KL railway station and is easily accessible from the main city. Although the building no longer se...

• Sultan Abdul Samad Building
• Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur

Your list of the best things to do, compiled on the basis of actual traveler experiences

Merdeka Square In Kuala Lumpur

Merdeka Square, formerly known as “Selangor Club Padang” or just “Padang,” is a very popular tourist attraction. Merdeka Square literally means “Independence Square,” where the Malaysian Flag was hoisted for the first time on 31 st August 1957 at midnight. The square is surrounded by multiple flags and in the center is the w...

• Scenic attractions

Shopping At Central Market In Kuala Lumpur

Founded in the year 1888, the Central Market Kuala Lumpur is one of the major attractions and a popular landmark in the KL city. Built in an art-deco structure, it houses an array of stalls selling some amazing souvenirs, traditional batik work, household goods, and more, making it a perfect place to indulge in a shopping s...

• Central Market

Kidzania In Kuala Lumpur

Are you accompanied by kids on your Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia tour? And, do they always annoy you asking what you, or a firefighter, or a pilot really does? Then, take them to Kidzania Kuala Lumpur - an edutainment centre designed especially for kids up to 14 years.

Sprawling over 80,000 sq. ft., it comprises various miniatur...

• Activities for kids
• Fun & adventure

Jalan Alor Food Street In Kuala Lumpur

Referred to as Alor Road in English, Jalan Alor is one of the sumptuous streets located in the heart of the city of Kuala Lumpur. Housing a wide range of hawker stalls and fine-dining restaurants serving a menu that caters to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian visitors, this street- located within the proximity of Bukit Bin...

• Street Food

KLCC Park In Kuala Lumpur

Sprawling over an area of around 50 hectares, KLCC Park (Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park) is located in the heart of the city adjacent to other major attractions, such as Suria KLCC and Petronas Twin Towers. Conceptualized by the world-renowned Brazilian artist- Roberto Burley Marx, this urban sanctuary was designed with a pu...

If savouring the diversity of a new place excites you, then without much ado, take our tour packages for Kuala Lumpur , now! And, let this federal capital of Malaysia serve you with an array of attributes, including rich past, diverse culture, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and some major attractions.

The town towers in Kuala Lumpur are a landmark building that puts Kuala Lumpur right on the global map. The skyscraper was completed in 1998 and till 2004, it was the highest building in the world. 

Distance From City: 3 km 

3 Hotels In Kuala Lumpur

Here are a few amazing options for staying in Kuala Lumpur:

1. Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur

Star Category: 5 star

Starting Price (Per Night): INR 6,000

Location: 138, Jalan Ampang, Kampung Baru, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Hotel Maya is a luxury 5-star property offering comfortable stay families and solo travelers. It features multiple dining areas, a swimming pool, and a bar. The hotel also has an eye-catching design and fitted with the best of modern amenities.

2. Shangri La Hotel

Starting Price (Per Night): INR 8,000

Location: 11, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Shangri La hotel is an amazing 5 star property located at the heart of the city. It boasts of world-class services and the most modern facilities. It is ideal for families and business travelers. Featuring several restaurants and bars, a spa center, swimming pools, and so much more, this is one of the most luxurious places to stay in.

3. Leo Palace Hotel New Wing

Star Category: 3 star

Starting Price (Per Night): INR 1,000

Location: 18, Jalan Rahmat, Chow Kit, 50350 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

An amazing 3 star hotel located in the city of Kuala Lumpur offers comfortable and rather a budget stay to travelers. The property offers the best of services and a notable hospitality as served by its staff. With various facilities like Wifi, parking, laundry, and room service, it is one of the best budget hotels in Kuala Lumpur.

Safety Measures For A Trip To Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and resonates in an ultra-modern setting. The city is full of attractions and in particular the signature attraction i.e. The Twin Towers. It is an amazing tourist spot but with Covid-19 impacting tourism as a whole, it becomes really important to assess how you can safely travel to Kuala Lumpur. So, here are a few safety travel tips for you to follow while traveling to Kuala Lumpur:

• Carry all basic requirements that ensure a safer travel. This includes hand sanitizers, masks, disinfectant, etc.
• Choose a reliable travel agent to book your trip
• Check permits before visiting an attraction or destination
• Also ensure that you have necessary medical certificate as required

To sum up this amazing destination for the curious wanderers, Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia. The city is known for its high-rise structures, history, old landmarks telling many stories of the rich past, great culinary delights, and hordes of amazing shopping opportunities. The modern and the glittering skyline of the city is what gives it a distinct identity amongst the other top-notch travel destinations across the world. No reason the travelers are attracted by the glitz and glamor of the shimmer that this city is all about. A skyline laden with minarets, skyscrapers, and many old world domes - this is what Kuala Lumpur looks like from afar. Come closer and you will find the many buzzing streets that are breathing continuously seeking shade from the beautiful swaying banyan trees. With the Kuala Lumpur packages offered by TravelTriangle, you would get to explore the best of this amazing destination.

Pick a Kuala Lumpur holiday package with the most suitable duration and request customization from our travel agents. Explore the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur and see high-rise condos, blissful temples, eat delectable food, visit beautiful parks, explore mesmerizing museums, and shop in a remarkable location with Kuala Lumpur tour packages . Travelers can also request multiple quotes on a tour package and then select the most convenient one. Happy travelling!

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Kuala Lumpur Reviews & Ratings

A bit of everything.

This is a trip of two halves - the first week the focus on the flora and fauna of Borneo and the second week the multicultural nature of Malaysia in the cities on ...

2 holidays in one

A great holiday or rather two in one. The first week was getting close to nature - basic accommodation but that's what you need if you want wildlife on your doorst...

Exceptional!

I initially booked this trip on a bit of a whim... I'd always fancied seeing the Orangutan's and had been looking online for various trips. This itinerary stuck ou...

Fun trip to Malaysia

Our family thoroughly enjoyed this varied trip. The first week in Borneo was great for seeing wildlife. We were lucky to watch a herd of pygmy elephants on and in ...

Good main guides who knew their stuff. Reasonable accommodation. See all types of monkeys and animals in the wild/boat trips Group leaders both were excellent and...

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"There is so much to explore in Malaysia, and I'll take you from sharing lunch with a local family in a Kampung Cantik village, to enjoying tea and scones in the emerald valleys of the Cameron Highlands."

Travel Director

Enjoy the fusion of international influences in Malacca

Our Local Specialists will reveal the blend of Malay, British, Dutch and Portuguese influences behind the UNESCO-listed city of Malacca. It was once a vital trading port, and we’ll take you from the Dutch Square to the top of Malacca Hill, then to Kampung Kuli, where you’ll find traditional crafts.

Try local delicacies at Chow Kit Market in Kuala Lumpur

Wander the stalls of Chow Kit Market, the largest wet market in Malaysia. It’s filled with hundreds of shopfronts piled with fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and meat, and there’s also a dry market where you’ll find clothes and crafts. Our Local Specialists will show you how the locals haggle for their fresh produce.

Visit the Kampung Cantik village

Join a local family for lunch in the village of Kampung Cantik, and take a walk around the village to see the Malacca kampong stilt houses. You’ll discover the friendly culture of the village as you participate in some of their favorite games including silat, an indigenous form of martial arts.

Climb up the rainbow staircase to Batu Caves

The Batu Caves is a popular Tamil shrine and one of Malaysia’s most spectacular sights. You’ll admire a towering golden statue, before ascending 272 rainbow steps up the limestone hill to find a complex of cave temples. We’ll go exploring through the caves, including Temple Cave, where you’ll discover a number of Hindu shrines.

Drive through the Cameron Highlands

We’ll take you on a journey through the magical green valleys and tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands. You’ll see the painted murals and gold Buddha statue of Perak Cave Temple, see the colonial-style town of Ipoh, and enjoy an afternoon tea of scones and local strawberry jam at Tanah Rata.

Our top 5 things to do in Malaysia

Our Malaysia vacation packages take in all the incredible sights of Malaysia, from the cultural fusion of Malacca, to the emerald valleys of the Cameron Highlands.

Orang Asli Museum

The aboriginal Orang Asli people of the Malaysian Peninsula are renowned for their handicrafts and wood carving skills. The Orang Asli Museum in Kuala Lumpur displays their arts and crafts, including the famed wooden carved masks and figures by the Mah Meri and Jah Hut tribes.

Perak Cave Temple

One of the most famous temples in Ipoh, Perak Cave Temple was created in 1926 by a Chinese Buddhist couple. You can climb the staircase into the cave to find a golden Buddha statue surrounded by beautifully painted murals. Continue climbing and you’ll discover a viewpoint with panoramic views across the hills of Ipoh.

Kek Lok Si Temple

The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si Temple towers on a hilltop in Penang. You can explore the temple grounds to find the pagoda, the four heavenly kings pavilion, tranquil gardens and the turtle liberation pond. At the top of the hill, you’ll see the giant statue of the Goddess of Mercy.

Best museums in Malaysia

We’ll reveal the dynamic history of Malaysia through its museums, from hilltop Buddhist temples, to the arts of the Orang Asli people.

The beloved national food of Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is an aromatic dish of rice cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaf. It’s served with spicy sambal and a variety of sides like eggs, beef, chicken curry, cucumber and fried anchovies. Nasi Lemak is commonly eaten at breakfast, although you’ll find it served all day.

Rendang is one of Malaysia's favorite traditional dishes. It’s a fragrant curry served during celebrations and festivals, and the flavors are rich and spicy. Commonly served with beef or chicken, the curry is made from turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir leaves, tamarind and coconut milk.

Nasi Goreng

Found all over the country, Nasi Goreng is Malaysia’s answer to fried rice. This traditional rice dish is cooked with onions, shallots, chilli, soy sauce, tamarind, nuts and spices and served with your choice of egg, pork, prawns or crispy fried chicken.

Best food in Malaysia

The best Malaysia tour packages take in the country’s diverse cuisine, and we’ll show you all the favorites from fiery Rendang to Nasi Goreng.

What to pack for Malaysia

Adaptor plug

In Malaysia the standard voltage is 240 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type G. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Comfortable shoes

From climbing Malacca Hill and hiking through forested mountains, to walking the cobbled streets of George Town, you’ll need a reliable pair of walking shoes.

Light modest clothing

Malaysia is hot and humid for most of the year and you’ll need light and loose clothing. It’s also a highly religious country and it’s best to dress modestly with shoulders and thighs covered.

Sunscreen and repellent

Protect yourself from the natural elements of Malaysia with at least SPF 30 sunscreen and a strong DEET insect repellent.

A small travel umbrella will come in handy in Malaysia, from shielding you from the monsoon rains to blocking out the blazing sunshine.

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Malaysia Tours & Trips

Malaysia offers a huge number of attractions: Kuala Lumpur and the Petronas Towers, the state of Penang, the beaches of Langkawi, and the stunning nature of Borneo . Located next to Singapore , this enchanting country is one of South-East Asia's hidden jewels.

89 Malaysia tour packages with 278 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Borneo – East Sabah Adventure

A great experience throgh the amazing Borneos nature. An excellent guide and an nice group. Everything was just perfect

Sabah Adventure

Felix was amazing. Only request was to stay on river longer. It was only one night. Also I hope Borneo works on theirs carbon emissions. I felt like riding on the river I was contributing to carbon emissions from the boats. Also Turtle Island I felt again the boats could hit a turtle. My carbon foot print was very high on this trip. Mountain is not a hike but a climb. Take the brochure seriously and be in shape. Our group was but still took a lot out of us. Be prepared for no hot water or electricity through out the trip.

Premium Borneo in Depth

very surprising! everything worked out! nelson was really good!

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Trek Mt Kinabalu

Minivan drivers sometimes way to fast Hotel ok, accommodations in park great

Real Borneo

Just come back from another amazing trip with Intrepid, the highlight was seeing not 1 but 8 orangutan's in the wild!

Tailor-Made Private Malaysia Holiday Package, Daily Departure

Organization was very good Our guide was knowledgeable, always on time, very accommodating and befriended us. Car was comfortable and the guide, Raymond, drove carefully. Accommodation was comfortable and in convenient areas. Jungle trek was challenging. Would recommend the trip to anyone.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Best Malaysia Tour, Daily Departure & Private Trip

Looking for tours beyond just malaysia.

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Malaysia.

KUALA LUMPUR AND PENANG HIGHLIGHT

• Jungle Trekking

Best of Borneo National Geographic Journeys

Great trip - loads of beautiful nature with like minded people - great explanations, information and discussion.

• In-depth Cultural

Borneo Adventure

Sabah Highlights Adventure 7D/6N

The trip was really great! I didn't realize that I'd booked a private tour, which was kind of a surprise. The accommodations were really cool. The longhouse was my favorite! And the bat cave is AMAZING! All of the transportation was clean and air conditioned. The tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. My guide in Kota Kinabulu was the best! She introduced me to all of these really yummy snacks and told me about local traditions and her English was great! I would highly recommend the air conditioning option, it's really humid there and you do some physical activity and you'll be grateful for the upgrade. Also, bring toilet paper, because Malaysia doesn't really use it. The only thing I'd change is to stay at Sepilok for 2 days and Bilit for 1 day instead of the other way around. There isn't a lot to do at Bilit, just some scheduled boat rides and hikes, but Sepilok has a lot of cool places nearby and they have a pool. Spending a whole day doing almost nothing while having to set alarms for meal times wasn't really a great use of my time. Other than that, it was really great!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Wonders Of Borneo, Malaysia (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Borneo Wildlife Discoverer

We started with a disappointment because the weather prevented us from going to Bako N.P. But by ghe end of the trip we had a very ling list of wildlife sightings & experiences. Our guide was wonderful!

Incredible Borneo, Malaysia (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

Malaysia Encompassed Adventure 9D/8N

What people love about malaysia tours.

If you are looking for a nature holiday, I would most defiantely recommend Borneo. Saw all the wildlife I had hoped for and more. Our CEO with G Adventures, Ricky, was fantastic. Helpful, kind, knowledgable and very calm. Always happy to help and answer any questions regarding the wildlife or history of Borneo. The group was also fantastic, full of laid back, like minded, wildlife lovers, from all over the world. Thank you!!

This trip was amazing and exceeded my expectations. I loved the mix of culture, nature, hiking and relaxing.

Great adventure! I reaced the summit!

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Travel & Food, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

The Kuala Lumpur Itinerary Curated by Locals (KL) 2024 Update – Best Things to Do in Malaysia’s Capital

August 25, 2023 by Bino 3 Comments

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is a city that is all too familiar to me after visiting countless times. As a major transport hub not only within Malaysia but also for destinations around Southeast Asia, the Malaysian capital has long been a popular destination due to its relative ease of access, plethora of eats as well as the iconic Petronas Towers.

There are plenty of attractions in Kuala Lumpur and if you spend two or three days here, you will soon discover that there is so much more to the city than just the twin towers. Over the years, a noticeably prominent coffee culture has also developed, giving way to plenty of concept cafes catering to just about every whim and fancy.

Around the metropolis, you will also discover pockets of culture, whether it be at the Kampung Baru or Brickfields (the city’s Little India). The abolition of GST (goods and services tax) has also made shopping in Kuala Lumpur a convincing proposition and the malls around Bukit Bintang or KLCC are more than happy to oblige.

If you are looking for ideas of things to do, see and eat in Kuala Lumpur (KL); here is a recommended itinerary that you can do in as little as 3 days.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Downtown KL, Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang & Jalan Alor

Tip: You might want to get a Malaysia sim card that includes data and calls that you can easily pick-up once you arrive in KLIA. This enables you to escape potentially snaking queues at the airport’s SIM counter. You can get one here

Start your Kuala Lumpur itinerary by exploring the civic area. The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is an appealing late 19th century structure known for its Moorish architecture, with the Merdeka Square fronting it. It was the main government building used during the British colonial administration. Nowadays, it houses the Ministry of Tourism. 

Jamek Mosque

jamek mosque – kuala lumpur

From here, it is a short walk to the imposing Jamek Mosque , a sprawling complex that shares some similar features with the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. The mosque is open to the public outside of prayer times and is well worth a visit. To appreciate the architecture of the complex as a whole, I would suggest climbing up to the monorail station adjacent to it. To get to a higher point, you’d need to purchase a ticket. MYR 1 is the minimum ticket price but the view from up there is definitely worth much more than that.

Central Market

central market – kuala lumpur

For a bit of shopping, head to the nearby Central Market (daily 10AM to 6PM), an art deco building filled with stores selling all sorts of wares including household items, apparel and souvenirs. The place is admittedly quite touristy but for local handicrafts and souvenirs, the range here is hard to beat.

Selfie Time at Kwai Chai Hong

street art in kwai chai hong, kuala lumpur

From that market, it is a short walk to Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. Petaling Street is where all the action is with its souvenir shops and night market. Towards the southern portion in a side street (Lorong Panggung) you will find Kwai Chai Hong , a charming little spot filled with street murals, brightly painted restored shophouses housing souvenir shops as well as plenty of insta-worthy spots. Kwai Chai Hong reminds me a bit of Penang or even Ipoh with all the street art. 

A 6 minute walk from Kwai Chai Hong is the atmospheric Fung Wong (daily, 9AM to 6PM). This age-old confectionery has spent most of its life as an old-school bakery doling out traditional cookies such as red bean pastry, wife’s cookies and egg tarts. The 4th generation owners moved the confectionery to a new space not far from the original site and turned it into a cafe with a distinct blend of the old and the new. 

A Dose of Modern Culture at REXKL

A short walk from Fung Wong is the intriguing REXKL , a cultural/exhibition space that gives one a glimpse of Kuala Lumpur’s hipster scene. The basement houses a number of chic bars and eateries while the upper floor has a very picturesque bookstore and exhibition space.

Admire the Majestic KL Railway Station

kuala lumpur railway station

Before leaving the older part of town, make sure to stop by the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and stand in amazement at the beautiful mishmash of British colonial and Mughal architecture. If you want to live it up like during the olden days, walk across the station to The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur for some tea.

While most people recommend heading to Batu Caves in the morning, my personal preference and suggestion is to do it in the afternoon. This is especially if you intend to take photos of the giant statue outside as it faces against the sun in the morning. Situated in the state of Selangor, Batu Caves is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside of India. 272 steps will take you inside the cave and into the Murugan temple. If you have been to Batu Caves before but have not been back in the last 4 years, it is well worth returning for the colorful stairs which appear particularly picturesque when taken with a zoom camera from afar.

Shopping Galore in Bukit Bintang

Spend the rest of the afternoon back in Kuala Lumpur and in its busiest area, Bukit Bintang . Even if you have been to other shopping districts in Southeast Asia such as Bangkok’s Sukhumvit or Singapore’s Orchard Road; Bukit Bintang is still worth a look for its myriad high street brands and elements of Middle Eastern culture. Malls to check out include Lot 10, Sungei Wang and Pavilion. Kuala Lumpur is also a popular destination for people from Arab countries and you’ll find a distinct Islamic flavor in many of the establishments here.

Street Eats in Jalan Alor

jalan alor – kuala lumpur

For an atmospheric dinner experience, eat at one of the food stalls in  Jalan Alor and sample KL’s hawker culture. Things to try here include char kway teow , bak kut teh and fried oysters . The area is heavily frequented by tourists but you can still get yourself some pretty delicious local fare. If you are looking for a good and decent massage place nearby, you can check out Chaang Thai Massage (daily 12PM to 10pm) to soothe those tired muscles. The therapists come from Thailand.

Day 2 – Kampung Baru, Petronas Towers & Mall-hopping

Witness traditional malay life in kampung baru.

Morning is the best time to explore the traditional Malay village, Kampung Baru located not far from town. Cultural attractions here include Masjid Jamek Kampung Baru , Rumah Limas and Master Mat’s House . Essentially, Kampung Baru is an enclave of quaint and charming Malay-style houses right in the middle of the city. While here, you may also want to have some nasi lemak (a Malaysian staple) for breakfast.  A popular spot within Kampung Baru for this dish include Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa (4, Jalan Raja Muda Musa, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Open daily:   8AM to Midnight).

Try the Best Nasi Lemak in Town

pardon the haphazard plating but the nasi lemak from village park is worth the trip to petaling jaya

If you are willing to head out to Petaling Jaya (around 30 minutes drive from downtown), the undisputed most popular place for nasi lemak is Village Park Nasi Lemak (5, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Open daily: 8AM to 5:30PM).

See Some of Malaysia’s Rich Marine Life in Aquaria KLCC

aquaria klcc

In the afternoon, head to KLCC to check out Aquaria KLCC , the educational and family-friendly oceanarium located mere minutes from the Petronas Towers. This 5,600 sqm complex features several zones showcasing the rich marine life in Malaysian waters. The highlight here is the 90 meter underwater tunnel where you can see sharks, manta rays and other underwater creatures as they gather above and beside you (you can get discounted tickets here ).

See the Petronas Towers – A Must For Your Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

petronas towers

From Aquaria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic attraction is a mere 5 minute walk through either a well-manicured park or underground tunnel. The best time to admire the Petronas Towers is during sunset (for KL this usually happens between 7PM to 7:15PM). It’s also possible to go up to the building’s observation deck (you can book here for discounted tickets plus free pick-up within any KL city location). My personal pick for the best view of Petronas Towers is from the Skybar of Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Walk Through the Saloma Bridge

saloma bridge

The Klang River separates Kampung Baru and KLCC and before the Saloma Bridge was built in 2020, one had to take quite a bit of a detour to get between these two spots. The 69-meter long link way which is shaped like a betel leaf is noted for its futuristic design. While seeing this bridge has its own merits either during the day or night, I would specifically recommend coming here at night to see the how it looks when it is lighted up with the colors of the Malaysian flag. Otherwise, you can easily do this part of the itinerary on the morning of day 2 as you cross from Kampung Baru into KLCC. But trust me, coming back here at night is worth it!

Day 3 – Bangsar, Thean Hou Temple, KL Tower

A walk in the park.

d’sun zone in perdana botanic gardens, kl

Kuala Lumpur’s Perdana Botanical Gardens is a sprawling 226 acre oasis of greenery right in the heart of town. Its well-manicured surroundings are a favorite among joggers as well as families enjoying the wide open spaces during off days. Some tourist attractions such as the Bird Park and Butterfly Park are also located here. My favorite spot is the highly instagrammable D’Sun Zone , a relatively unknown gem constructed to house the park’s collection of bottle trees.

Cafe Hopping in Bangsar

cafe in bangsar

The quieter neighborhood of Bangsar is one of the city’s trendiest with its mix of bars, restaurants and hipsters cafes. Start your day with a cup of coffee at some of the most atmospheric cafes in the area. If coffee is not your thing, Bangsar also has a host of interesting restaurants that it is entirely possible to spend the whole day restaurant / cafe hopping as most places offer not just a feast for the tummy but for the eyes as well. To round up your morning, you can also check out other places such as Pulp (daily 7:30AM to 10PM) and Podgy Kurau (daily except Tues, 10AM to 5PM).

matcha desserts at niko neko matcha

For matcha lovers, there is Niko Neko Matcha (daily except Wednesday, 11AM to 5:30PM) which has become something of a local institution where matcha is concerned as they supply green tea to a few other cafes in the city. Even those who are used to matcha cafes in other countries will find the assortment here quite unique. Aside from the usual matcha and matcha lattes, one can also have a sip at matcha mocktails (think matcha infused with various fruit juices) and matcha desserts. The white minimalist interior of this unassuming upstairs joint makes it one of the highlights of a visit to Bangsar.

Elevate Your Merit at the Thean Hou Temple

thean hou temple in kl

Close to Bangsar is the Thean Hou Temple , a place of worship dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. The architecture here is relatively intricate, with ornate carvings in each hall and pavilion. While temples of this sort are common throughout Southeast Asia, I have yet to see one which exceeds this in terms of detail. It is especially photogenic during the period around Chinese new year and the Mid-autumn festival when hundreds of lanterns would be strung across the complex.

Head to Publika for a nice contrast while you cool away and escape the heat of the afternoon sun. This sprawling shopping mall differs from the ones you find in Bukit Bintang in the sense that it specializes in independent brands and food outlets. You’ll find plenty of hipster cafes here as well. Places to check out include Coffeestain by Joseph and Namoo for Korean desserts.

inside the sky box of kl tower

Before ending your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, make sure to check out the KL Tower or Menara Kuala Lumpur (daily 9AM to 10PM). While it is definitely possible to catch views of the city’s skyline from many hotels, a visit to this tower is definitely still recommended and that’s primarily because of its sky box. A visual feast for those seeking instagram-worthy shots, the sky box is essentially a glass cage that extends out of the observation deck of the tower. The glass construction (floor, wall, ceiling) gives the feeling of being suspended in mid-air and is definitely not for acrophobes. I visited on a weekend and found the queue of people going up to the observation deck / sky deck to clear up pretty fast. However, once up there, you’ll get a separate queue number for the sky box and that can take up about a 1 to 1.5 hour wait. You can buy discounted tickets here . 

Get Your Fix of Klang Bak Kut Teh

klang bak kut teh

There are two versions of bak kut teh or pork bone soup. The one in Singapore is peppery with a more translucent broth while the Malaysian version is herbal with soy sauce for a darker broth. The Malaysian version is said to have originated in Klang which is around an hour away from downtown Kuala Lumpur. If you are pressed for time and don’t want to travel that far, Subang Jaya is your second best bet. It is located roughly halfway between KL and Klang. In Subang Jaya’s Jalan SS14/2, you can find a long row of shophouses with multiple eateries serving bak kut teh. You can take your pick here but the more popular ones are Restoran Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh (daily, 4PM to 10PM) and Restoran Yu Kee (daily, 8AM to 10PM). Go for the thicker dry version which includes wolfberries, dried squid and chili in the broth. Servings are huge and you can also ask the server for a leaner cut of meat.

If you are heading to Penang, check out this suggested itinerary for Penang .

Day Trips From Kuala Lumpur

If you have more days to spare in and around Kuala Lumpur, you may also want to check out these places:

• Putrajaya – The administrative capital of Malaysia, Putrajaya is a modern (albeit, relatively empty) city filled with palatial structures including some impressive government and religious buildings. The city is around 35 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur and is on the way if you are heading to the airport.
• Ipoh – The sleepy city in Perak is known for its charming shophouses, colonial architecture, nationally renowned cuisine and numerous limestone hills. The place is well worth a day trip or even a night or two. It is accessible by an easy 2.5 hour train ride from KL Sentral.
• Genting Highlands – A popular place for locals and tourists to cool off from the punishing heat of the lowlands, Genting Highlands is home to casinos, theme parks and hotels.
• Melaka – A UNESCO World Heritage Site along the vein of Penang, Melaka is around 1.5 hours away from Kuala Lumpur and features plenty of historical buildings, popular eats, museums and night markets. If you do plan to visit, stay at least one night to fully appreciate the town.
• Seremban – A relatively off-the-radar destination from Kuala Lumpur, Seremban is home to Malaysia’s Minangkabau community. The curved roofs of the city museum and the intriguing architectural style of the royal state capital, Sri Menanti, attest to this.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is accessible from most Asian capitals, often with no need to do a transit. When visiting Kuala Lumpur or Malaysia in general, I typically try booking AirAsia flights as the airline usually has the most number of flights to the city. Alternatively, you can also search here for the cheapest flights .

Getting From KLIA to City

KLIA to KL Sentral in as little as 28 minutes with the KL Ekspres

KLIA Ekspres (Airport Train)

The fast KLIA Ekspres trains take you from the airport to the city (KL Sentral) in as little as 28 minutes. Tickets cost MYR 55 but you can purchase here for a discount. There are departures every 15 to 20 minutes. If you arrive during rush hours like between 8AM to 9AM in the morning or 5PM to 7:30PM in the evening, it’s advisable to take the train to avoid the traffic jams. Alternatively, you can purchase a KL TravelPass which includes a roundtrip journey with the KLIA Ekspres plus unlimited LRT, MRT and monorail rides in Kuala Lumpur for 2 days. You can purchase the KL TravelPass here .

Taxis / Airport Transfers

In contrast, a ride via GRAB costs between MYR 80 to 100 depending on the time of day, excluding toll fees. Alternatively, you can book for private airport transfers here at a standard rate of MYR 75 regardless of the time of day and also inclusive of toll fees.

A relatively cheap way to get from the airport to city is via the airport bus. It costs MYR 12 for a one-way ticket from the airport and you get dropped off at KL Sentral but be prepared for a 1+ hour ride! You can book bus tickets here .

Getting Around

While Kuala Lumpur’s public transport system underwent a massive upgrade recently with the opening of their MRT, I typically get around via a ride-sharing app like Grab. Thanks to petrol subsidies, fares in Kuala Lumpur are among the cheapest in Southeast Asia. Hops within Kuala Lumpur itself, for instance, will set you back by only MYR 5 – 15 typically.

Car rentals have also become more popular these days as some folks prefer to minimize interacting with crowds especially in the current pandemic era. Kuala Lumpur’s roads are highly developed and foreigners can drive here provided they have a valid international driver’s license. You can check out car rental deals here .

Travel Insurance 

In this era of uncertainties, I will normally purchase travel insurance even for short trips. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion running until 29th Feb that comes with FREE Apple AirTag (worth S$45) that may even be worth more than the cost of the insurance itself. 

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most affordable major city to stay in luxury hotels so why not live it up a bit and stay somewhere nicer? Here, it’s very well possible to stay in a 5-star property with a US$100 per night budget. You can get a good 3-star hotel with US$40 and 4-star accommodations for about US$75.

Santa Grand Signature Kuala Lumpur – This is a great value hotel with rooms that are rarely above US$50 a night (and that is already with breakfast). Location-wise, the hotel is situated in Jalan Ampang, close to the KL Tower and a few minutes walk from Dang Wangi Station.

KLoé Hotel – This is the place to stay if you are looking for an instaworthy hotel that is close to the city center. KLoé Hotel is located right in Bukit Bintang. Rooms are stylish and feature a modern industrial look. Don’t miss a picture-perfect opportunity in the concrete hallways with vines – get your friend/family member to take a photo of you from across the open hallway.

at the instagram-worthy else hotel in kl

Else Kuala Lumpur – This spanking new boutique hotel opened in 2022 is stylish and luxurious at a wallet-friendly price. You can expect carefully-designed rooms and suites with soft palettes and natural tropical textures. The hotel also has an inhouse “meditation pod” for your relaxation and enjoyment. 

Alila Bangsar – Situated a few minutes’ walk from Bangsar Station and around 15 minutes to the cafes the Bangsar neighborhood is known for, the Alila Bangsar boasts of stylish and relaxing public spaces high up in the city. I like how there is a semi-partition in the sitting areas here, even in the most basic guestrooms.

Hilton Kuala Lumpur – Personally one of my favorite places to stay in the city, this hotel stands close to KL Sentral which makes airport connections a breeze. Rooms are recently furnished and there are plenty of food options here. The Japanese (Iketeru), Chinese (Chynna) and Western (Graze) options are all exceptional.

You can also compare for the best prices at other KL hotels here

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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August 29, 2018 at 6:57 pm

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

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Visit visa open or not?

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Where has your site been all my recent life. It’s brilliant. I do hope you can’t were out a bookmark 🙂

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Stories of Southeast Asia: Traveling Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary . Kuala Lumpur is that kind of place where 3 days makes a sweet itinerary covering the most sought-to places. But more days let you explore the hidden gems of the city. I visited KL for only 2 days and regretfully it wasn’t enough.

Here goes my itinerary along with my Kuala Lumpur travel blog .

Malaysia, as a country, offers several days of exploring like its beaches, offbeat island hopping , the revered Genting Highlands, and even week-long forest excursions. With Kuala Lumpur as the capital city of Malaysia, there are a number of places to experience here!

From Singapore , a cheaper alternative is via road – more or less a 6 hours drive. It typically costs SGD $25 – $35 for a direct bus from Singapore to KL (terminals at Berjaya Times Square, Terminal Bersepadu, and KL Sentral). You can book your preferred bus from sites like Redbus.com.

Table of Contents

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary

Thank god I didn’t miss the must-visits of Kuala Lumpur like the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves (though outside KL). But over the decade, the city has grown much in terms of tourism.

In this Kuala Lumpur 3 day itinerary, I’ve squeezed in the unique places to see while considering authentic foodspots for luncheons. Unlike an itinerary to Bali , many attractions are clustered together in a place – only a handful lay far from the rest.

For budget travelers, MRT and bus transits are actually reliable to get around Kuala Lumpur. But don’t hesitate to hail a cab if you’re off the itinerary track! For taxis I recommend the Grab mobile app for the best taxi fares. Afterall, they’re cheaper and safer than local cabs.

Now let’s dive into this Kuala Lumpur travel blog of mine:

Day 1: Land in Kuala Lumpur

The quickest way to Kuala Lumpur is by flight via the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) located 45 km south of the city. From Singapore, it’s a 1-hour flight to KUL.

As the airport lies on the outskirts, you can get to Kuala Lumpur by KLIA transit bus which stops at Salak Tinggi, Putrajaya, and Selatan. However, the best way to KL is via the KLIA Ekspres Train . This is a non-stop express straight to KL City Air Terminal at Sentral that takes no more than 30 minutes.

It costs RM 55 (around SGD $15) for the train. Book your trip from the airport via Klook.com for discounted rates. Being a partner of Klook, our readers get better deals from here. Check it out below!

Start at Thean Hou Temple

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary . Considering you start early morning after you land in Kuala Lumpur, the first stop is the Thean How Temple. While the Temple of the Chinese Mazu Goddess boasts its night lighting till late 10pm, I suggest the mornings to avoid the crowds.

Located on a hilltop, the 1987 six-levelled striking red contemporary structure gives it an iconic stance. The place gets even more lively on special occasions. Witnss the city skyline from the top levels of the Temple – and it’s free to visit!

Breakfast at Brickfield

The nearest spot to Thean Hou Temple is Brickfield, Little India. You’ll find rows of street stalls and food hawkers selling all kinds of delicacies for cheap. Dosas are a must-have here.

Again, the evenings get crowded here. When you visit in the late morning, it’s great for street photograph with the vibrant hues of old buildings and streets themselves. Brickfield more or less remind me of Little India and Chinatown in Singapore .

Consider this place for your first meal of the day (brunch too perhaps). Expect yourself to spend a couple of hours at this marketplace.

Stroll the Merdeka Square

This is one of my favorite parts of the itinerary, the Merdeka (Independent) Square. Walk the large rectangular lawn area with the stretch of the Sultan Abdul Samad on one side and Plaza Dataran Merdeka adjacent to it.

Fun fact – the Sultan Abdul Samad was used as administrative offices during the British colonization and it housed superior courts. The Jalan Raja road, pavements, the diplomatic structures and the green square make it look something out of a John Wick movie!

Visit the National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara)

It’s only 15 minutes walk away from Merdeka Square! Also, swap these two spots depending on convenience. If it’s hot over your head, then hit the Masjid Negara first. Merdeka Square is more in the open.

With the National Mosque of Malaysia a popular place among tourists today, they allow non-muslims to walk around parts of the mosque from where you can observe the prayers. The mosque is centered amidst 13 acres of gardens with 73m high minaret.

Not to mention, with its capacity of 15,000 people – it’s quite something to see. People are hospitable here and gladly explain their culture if one doesn’t understand the significance of certain things here. They also provide in case of inappropriate dressing. Please look up the prayer timings as visitors aren’t allowed at the time.

Witness the Petronas Towers!

Getting to the Petronas Towers is only a 10-minutes drive from the Masjid Negara. Taking a Grab taxi shouldn’t cost too much. But taking the bus with some effort of walking is also an option.

Whether you missed out any of the places till now out of any inconvenience, that’s alright – let it pass. But you simply can’t miss the Petronas Towers. It’s the first thing anyone thinks of when it comes to Malaysia!

Though visitors aren’t allowed till the top, the swinging bridge at Level 41 and 42 between the towers is the key attraction here. If lucky, you’ll actually feel the bridge movement due to strong winds! Speaking of visiting, book your tickets with time slots a few days prior. The evening slots get filled out fast and the visiting hours close at 5 pm.

Relax at Bukit Bintang

Kuala Lumpur travel blog. Your last stop is Bukit Bintang – a visible range from the Petronas Twin Towers . This place is known for its touristy evening vibe with range of accommodations. However, I should mention that Bukit Bintang leans towards luxury with its classy bars, live music clubs, and authentic seafood places.

While I wouldn’t touch a luxury spot when traveling to keep my pockets safe, I found Bukit Bintang alluring for their hotels. 4-star hotels like the Mercure KL Shaw Parade with a pool at the rooftop are priced around S$85 per night (280 RM). In Singapore, it’s impossible to find such deals.

Here are some of my favorite picks for luxury yet affordable hotels in Bukit Bintang:

• Mercure KL Shaw Parade
• Hotel Capitol
• CitizenM Kuala Lumpur

Day 2: Walk at the KL Forest Eco Park

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. Let the second day begin with the KL Forest Eco Park. The morning is perfect way to begin while you avoid large crowds.

Malaysiaa does have large patches of forests but this – the KL forest eco Park lies at the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The canopy walks, the varieties of flora and fauna, and the city’s skyscapers is something to look forward to. Expect to spend 2-3 hours here in the morning.

Visit the Guan Di Temple

Another most heard of name in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is no doubt the Guan Di Temple. Only 15 minutes away from Forest Eco Park, this is a well-known Taoist temple, especially among Chinese. Guan Di is the name of the Chinese Soldier also referred to as the God of War.

Thus, some things to expect in this unique temple are the artifacts and weapons (though replicas) of Guan Dao spear and Guan Jie sword. If lucky during traditional occassions, visitors will be allowed to touch these relics.

Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth visiting!

Dine at Old Chinatown Street Food

Another happening place like Little India, Brickfield is Old Chinatown. Only a walkable distance from Guan Di Temple (also in Chinatown), it’s a place you shouldn’t miss. Unlike most of Malaysia where you see large commercial estates gobbling on tinier businesses, Chinatown’s maintained its authencity.

Many of the stalls here are run by the same families for generations selling their authentic cultural dishes. That’s what make Brickfield and Chinatown something worth visiting. Unlike Singapore’s Chinatown , you get more varieties of delicacies to try.

Some things to try are Madras Lane’s Song Kee’s Beef Noodles and Yong Tau Foo. Dao Bao (the Dao Bao Restobar) and rice balls at Madam Tang’s Muah Chee.

Check out Masjid Wilayah Mosque

Another fascinating Mosque in Kuala Lumpur is the Masjid Wilayah, also called the Federal Territory Mosque. There’s no upfront ticket price as such – but be sure to visit between to 10 am to 5 pm. Also keep in mind it’s closed on Fridays and the weekend.

The marble walls and the overall structure is something to admire. It’s exactly how it appears in the pictures. Simply photogenic with the Makrana marble carvings on walls, ceiling, and even the floor designs. More or less, it resembles Taj Mahal – one of the 7 wonders in India.

From Chinatown, it’s no more than a 15 minute drive away!

Take a trip to Batu Caves

I put this spot for the end of the day as this is the furthest from other places and yet closest to Masjid Wilayah (9 km away). Furthermore Batu Caves are open till 9 pm which gives you enough time to get around without rushing.

Either way, make sure not to miss the Batu Caves – one of Kuala Lumpur’s treasured attractions. There are quite many Murugan temples in Southeast Asia. But the 43-meter gold-tinted Arul Murugan Statue before the caves is something to remember.

When I visited, the 272 steps up the temple were ash-colored. Today the steps are splashed vibrant hues of many colors making it an Instagrammable spot. If not pictures, hire a guide for the caves to learn the rich history of the caves.

Day 3: Visit the KL Bird Park

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. Only visit the KL Bird Park and Zoo Negara if you have the whole third day left for Kuala Lumpur. If you have lesser time, proritize the infamous Kuala Lumpur Tower before all.

Feel free to wake up without hurrying and have a good breakfast before making it to the KL bird park. The park, adjacent to Lake Gardens, opens at 9 am. Expect yourself to tour the 21-acre park by walk till lunchtime. It costs around RM 75 per adult (SGD $15).

The KL bird park boasts to have one of the largest free flight walk-in aviary. The looks of the Bird Park – the zones, open concept, and the structure amidst Perdana Botanical Gardens reminds me of the Jurong Bird Park in Singapore , though it isn’t as big.

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary: Then the Zoo Negara!

Have lunch at the KL bird park or Zoo Negara – both have their own themed restaurants. KL bird Park has the Hornbill Restaurant and Cafe. Back on our Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary, Zoo Negara is quite some distance from the Bird Park.

The 20 km takes around 30 minutes based on traffic conditions. Stay on track as the Zoo closes at 5 pm. The Zoo covers over 110 acres that majorly highlights tropical species here. It takes a good 3-4 hours to visit the zoo. Thus the time constraint.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Aquarium here exhibits the first ecological-based freshwater aquarium that sheds light on the Malaysian river and its wetlands. With its varieties of species and ticket price around RM 88 (SGD $22), this attraction is where many locals as well as KL visitors collide.

It’s a sweet getaway spot afterall!

Don’t miss on Kuala Lumpur Tower

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. The tower, still a vital part of telecommunication stations here, is popular for it being the 2nd tallest tower in Southeast Asia at 421 meters. There’s an observation deck and a sky deck (they’re both different) at the top that allows tourists to experience its edge 360-degree views.

Sky-deck here is something to experience with a clear glass bottom, offering views of the capital’s skyline. Some prefer to visit in the morning while I however believe that the night view is more magical with shimmering lights and cool breeze.

The closing time is 10 p.m. This finishes our Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. Book your KL tower tickets on Klook below for the best prices:

Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog: My story

After food, the sun seemed to be preparing itself for a set. We had a bus waiting for us. We were going to Genting Highlands directly from the airport. One of the best highlands I’ve visited so far.

Well, at least among the ones that have a huge amusement park on the top. But just between you and me, the highland that I feel is the best is Mount Batur in Bali and its wonderful trek. 

And off we drove up the hill to Genting Highlands . Up we went and up we went – since I’ve named this blog- Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog, I shall stick to what I mentioned. But Genting Highlands is quite something to experience.

Stay in a Hotel

After we came from Genting Highlands back to Kuala Lumpur, our next plan was to visit the Petronas Tower. We came back to KL in the evening and we got a hotel somewhere near to an MRT station deep inside Kuala Lumpur… or at least that’s what it seemed like to me at the time.

To be honest with you, the hotel wasn’t very good. They had breakfast alright, but that was it. Luckily, we just stayed there for one night. The next morning, we had breakfast and checked out straight to visit the Petronas Tower.

I don’t quite remember if we made it there by taxi or train. What I do remember is I couldn’t help looking up every time I faced the Towers.

Petronas Towers

Apart from being the second tallest towers in the world, Petronas Tower has something else very unique. It’s its bridge. It is said to be the world’s tallest sky bridge. Fun fact, it took 3 days just to lift the bridge to its current bridge.

Yep, they lifted the bridge up there. In fact, the bridge hangs from both the ends of the tower with the help of two rod-like structures.

So in reality- if there’s wind over a particular magnitude, the bridge actually sways.

Apart from the bridge, the elevator was quite something too. Its top ascend speed is said to be 7 meters per second. I didn’t know if that was a lot – but I did as soon as it started lifting us up.

Going up – Petronas Tower Sky Bridge

Before we got in, we waited for hours for security check. While on the wait, there were informational boards about how the towers were built. How both the towers competed in who would complete building first. And how the winner would be the one to get a chance to build the bridge across the two.

After the long wait, we finally got onto the lift with other tourists. My parents asked me to hold my ears if I felt them paining. I didn’t understand them.

But when the lift started moving up, I got it. Due to the high speed, my ears started turning numb by the second. I looked at the display. It was moving about one and a half floors per second!

I turned around to look at a lean Caucasian lady whose face had turned pink. She held her ears tight. But it didn’t help anyway, her nose turned red. Luckily, before it got worse for any of us, the lift doors opened. We got onto the bridge.

Back and out

When we went up, there wasn’t wind so we didn’t experience the bridge moment which was kind of disappointing.

The view however was spectacular! I looked down at the road from the window on one side and so tiny yellow ant-like-objects moving slowly. They were actually taxis and cars in the traffic. The feeling was pretty exhilarating, I should say.

The visit to the bridge wasn’t very long. We had around 30-45 minutes to stay and then the lift would take us back down. And so we went down after a few great pictures. The taxi was waiting for us for our next stop- the Batu Caves.

Another must visit place in Malaysia is no doubt Batu Caves. Read all about it on my Batu Caves blog here.

Heading back to the Airport

This brings us to the end of this Kuala Lumpur travel blog . After our visit to the Batu Caves, we were completely exhausted. That was all our trip supposed to be and so we headed back. Thus back to the airport did we go to in the same taxi. The taxi driver became well-acquainted with us after a while.

He was originally Indian and turned out to be a pretty good guide as well. He didn’t speak our native of course, but we understood Malay. As it is close to Bahasa Indonesia, we had no trouble communicating.

For some basics of the language, I made a list of phrases that you’d need to keep in mind for it.

He told a lot about the city and his family and lifestyle as well. It was a pretty interesting conversation to listen to on our way back. And then we bid him goodbye and off we flew! Again, I didn’t remember a single thing on our way back. Just before we flew back, I made a very smart move.

I decided to have burnt noodles if that’s even a thing as I was hungry. Bad decision because I was nauseous on our entire travel back to Indonesia. But that’s just typically me, doing wrong shit at the wrong times, so I really can’t say anything about it anymore.

But anyway, that sums up for our trip to Kuala Lumpur. If you just finished reading this Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog, well hooray! Comment below if you’ve got something to add up.

Manas Patil

Hi there! I'm a 22-year-old dude all the way from India, I love traveling and building itineraries! Sign up and get your FREE COPY of my travel checklist to get the best of your next vacation!

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1 thought on “Stories of Southeast Asia: Traveling Kuala Lumpur”

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Kuala Lumpur

23 BEST Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur (2024)

Kuala Lumpur is the sprawling and dynamic capital of Malaysia. A modern city that is home to various cultural historic highlights, Kuala Lumpur is especially known for its excellent shopping, fantastic food scene, iconic buildings, and fun things to do. You’ll find awesome natural attractions nearby too.

Kuala Lumpur is a large city, discovering places of interest after the well-known tourist highlights can be tricky. The city boasts many hidden gems.

We’ve compiled this extensive list of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur to help you make the most all of your time in the city and discover secret treasures as well as the most famous attractions. There is certainly no need to have any dull moments in the Malaysian capital.

With places to suit all kinds of traveller and all budgets, these best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur are sure to excite you.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur:

These are the best places to visit in kuala lumpur, faq on the best places to visit in kuala lumpur, make many magical memories in kuala lumpur.

Bukit Bintang

A great place for those who love fancy malls and endless days of shopping, Bukit Bintang also has plenty of bars, street food, restaurants, and entertainment options to suit diverse tastes.

• Snap some pictures of the quaint St. Anthony’s Church.
• Visit Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve to escape the concrete jungle and enjoy some time in nature.
• Put your dancing shoes and smart clothes on and head to Changkat Bukit Bintang for a night of drinking, dancing, and fun.

And, with all the useful advice completed, here are the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur …

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most visited cities in the world and for this reason, it can be overwhelming when trying to decide where to stay. Be sure to check out where to stay in Kuala Lumpur for a full low-down on the best areas of this vibrant metropolis and get ready to dive into the adventure awaiting you below!

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#1 – Petronas Twin Towers – One of the most amazing places in Kuala Lumpur!

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• World’s tallest twin towers
• Amazing shopping centre
• Fabulous views
• Interesting displays

Why it’s awesome: The gleaming Petronas Twin Towers are a major landmark on the city skyline. Previously the tallest buildings in the world, they remain the tallest twin towers across the globe. Open since 1999. The towers were built on the site of the city’s racetrack. The steel and glass exteriors shimmer in the sunlight and the designs reflect those found in Islamic art. The 88-floor towers are connected by a skybridge walkway. Various companies have offices within the towers, with Tower One home only to Petronas, the large oil company. There’s a large shopping centre, Suria KLCC, at the bottom, and Petronas Philharmonic Hall is also within the buildings. Outside, KLCC Park is an attractive open space that offers various activities.

What to do there: Take a walk through KLCC Park and gaze up at the splendid towers that dominate the surroundings. You can follow the walking trails, relax next to the large pond, and get some exercise along the jogging tracks. Take kids to the play area to let off steam. Browse the luxury shops within Suria KLCC and perhaps treat yourself to some high-end goods. You can also visit the underwater aquarium, art gallery, and various places to eat and drink. Book tickets to watch the Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra perform in the spectacular Petronas Philharmonic Hall.

Snap a picture of the suspended racing cars in the main lobby and take a trip up the towers for incredible views. Do note that you should buy your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot. Ride the fast elevators up to the skybridge (on the 41 st floor) and see the city spread out below you. Continue to the 86 th floor for more incredible vistas and to see the displays relating to the tower’s construction, use, design, and significance. There are some great Airbnb’s located nearby with views of the towers too!

#2 – Batu Caves – One of the more unique places to visit in Kuala Lumpur!

• Hindu spiritual site
• Lots of monkeys
• Various caves to explore
• Religious artwork

Why it’s awesome: The Batu Caves are easy to reach from the city centre, located in nearby Selangor. The limestone hill has several interesting caves and the complex is one of the most-visited and scared Tamil shrines outside of India. Dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, a gigantic golden likeness of the god stands at the bottom of the biggest cave. Believed to have been formed some 400 million years ago, the caves have been used as shelters and as places of worship over the years. The caves have been especially sacred to local Hindus since the late 1800s. Each cave houses something different, with temple caves and one dedicated to nature. Macaque monkeys live around the hill.

What to do there: Admire the impressive limestone hills and buy a bag of food to feed the marauding macaques that scamper around the site. Do secure loose items and keep any other food and drink hidden to prevent the monkeys from snatching your items and running away with them. Be in awe of the gigantic statue of Lord Murugan; at almost 43 metres (140 feet) tall, it’s the biggest statue of this deity in the world.

Climb the 272 steps to visit the ornate Temple Cave and see an abundance of religious statues and artworks spread throughout the interesting natural rock formations. Watch as people come here to pray and perform religious rituals. In Cave Villa you can see more shrines and statues, many of which tell religious stories. Visit the Ramayana Cave to learn the story of Rama and see the large green-blue statue of Hanuman (the Monkey God) outside. Take a tour of the vast undeveloped Dark Cave to spot an array of cave-dwelling creatures, some of which aren’t found anywhere else.

#3 – Sunway Lagoon – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Kuala Lumpur

• Family-friendly attraction
• Wide assortment of rides and attractions
• Home to the first surfing simulator in Malaysia
• Built on former wasteland

Why it’s awesome: The award-winning Sunway Lagoon, located in Selangor, has six excellent parks to please various interests and ages. Built on wasteland created by a former tin mine, the park has been open since 1992. Today, it’s a premier attraction for families, groups of friends, and couples, attracting locals and visitors alike. The Water Park is a top place to cool down in the hot and humid temperatures. The Scream Park (suitable for anyone over the age of seven years old) is sure to send a shiver down your spine!

Thrill-seekers are sure to love the diverse activities in the Extreme Park, while the Amusement Park has cool rides for both adults and kids. The Wildlife Park is home to creatures from across the globe and Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon not only has cool themed attractions and rides for people of all ages but it was the first Nickelodeon theme park in Asia. There are numerous places to eat and drink throughout the huge park and there’s even a hotel if you want the fun to last for longer!

What to do there: Come face to face with more than 150 species of animals from around the world in the Wildlife Park. White tigers, lions, snakes, otters, prairie dogs, and birds are just a few creatures you’ll find throughout the various habitats. Have thrills and spills in the Extreme Park as you try activities like go-karting, kayaking, archery, bungee jumping, paintballing, and soar through the skies on the flying fox zipline. Meet all your favourite Nickelodeon characters in Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon, including Sponge Bob Square Pants, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Dodge the famous green sludge at the Great Slime Deluge and have fun on the diverse rides. Get wet and wild in the Water Park, with attractions like Surf Beach where you can try to ride the waves, kids’ water play areas, slides, and the cool Waterplexx 5D. Feel your pulse quicken in the Scream Park as you make your way round the frightening interactive experiences, and enjoy the various rides of the fun Amusement Park.

#4 – Alor Street Food Night Market – A must-see for foodies!

• Packed with diners in the evening
• Relaxed ambience
• Diverse cuisine
• Affordable prices

Why it’s awesome: Alor Street may not look all that exciting during the daytime, but come late afternoon / evening the area transforms into one of the hottest dining spots in Kuala Lumpur. Numerous vendors cook up fresh and tasty meals along Alor Street Food Night Market, with plenty of treats to tempt you. Munching on street food is an excellent way to travel cheap in Malaysia , and you can try a huge selection of local cuisine in a cool relaxed setting. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, and some eateries have indoor seating areas too.

What to do there: Feast on a wide selection of goodies at the fabulous Alor Street Food Night Market. Be sure to come hungry as there are bound to be many things that tickle your nostrils and taste buds! Stroll along the bustling street and watch as vendors cook an assortment of dishes. Peruse the menus and see what grabs your attention, then take a seat and wait for your delicacies to arrive!

Sink your teeth into dishes like the popular satay, oyster omelettes, fried chicken wings, dim sum, stir-fried noodles, soups, grilled fish, curries, and much, much more. Leave some space for desserts and drinks—the sweet coconut ice cream is very popular. Chill with a beer or fruit juice and listen to the music coming from buskers, and see different street performers looking to impress the crowds.

#5 – Lorong Panggung – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Kuala Lumpur!

• Tiny tucked-away alley
• Nostalgic ambience
• Surrounded in local tales
• Traditional foods

Why it’s awesome: Sometimes referred to by locals as Little Ghosts Alley, the narrow L-shaped alley of Lorong Panggung may be close to the vibrant Chinatown but the atmosphere is definitely worlds apart. Offering a peek into yesteryear, traditional shop houses line the street, some displaying peeled and cracked street art, and Chinese lanterns hang from strings overhead. Tiny shrines sit outside some establishments and old billboards have been used to provide cover and shade. It’s somehow simultaneously sleepy and yet busy with hungry customers at certain times of the day. There’s a good selection of places to sit down for a nostalgic meal and experience the Kuala Lumpa yesterday in an unhurried and tucked-away back alley away from the crowds.

What to do there: Absorb the laid-back vibe as you stroll along the small alleyway, noticing the brightly painted doorways, lanterns, shrines, and artwork. Take pictures of the old shop houses and soak up the olde-worlde charm. Come for a typical breakfast of boiled eggs, kaya toast, and tea and savour simple pleasures as you watch the street start to come to life. Alternatively, grab typical snacks or sit down to a lunch of fried noodles.

#6 – National Mosque of Malaysia – One of the most religious places to see in Kuala Lumpur

• Modern mosque
• Accessible to non-Muslims
• Symbol of a newly independent nation
• Interesting architecture

Why it’s awesome: The National Mosque of Malaysia is a huge Islamic place of worship set in extensive and attractive gardens. It can hold some 15,000 people at any given time. Standing on the site of an old church, the mosque was built in the 1960s and renovated in the 1980s. Sleek and modern, the mosque’s roof is especially interesting—covered in blue and green tiles, it is both star shaped and also looks like an open umbrella (a symbol of the tropics). The mosque is a striking symbol of Malaysia’s independence from British rule. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque and members of staff are happy to provide information about the building and about Islam.

What to do there: Remember to dress conservatively to visit the mosque. Outer garments and head coverings are provided for females. Stroll through the pretty gardens and admire the fountains, greenery, and reflecting pools. Gaze up at the minaret, which is 73 metres (240 feet) tall, and hear the call to prayer being sounded five times each day. Notice the unusual roof design and look inside the main hall, complete with an elegant chandelier, stylish calligraphy, traditional Islamic art, and plush carpet. You can also visit the nearby mausoleum, an attractive building in its own right, to see the final resting place of several eminent Muslim leaders.

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#7 – Central Market – A great place in Kuala Lumpur if you love to shop!

• Housed in a historical building
• Centre for arts, crafts, and traditional Malaysian goods
• Set out to resemble a traditional Malaysian market
• Great food court

Why it’s awesome: Kuala Lumpur’s Central Market is housed within a handsome Art Deco building that was constructed in 1937. It was built on the site of an old wet market, which was constructed in the 1880s during colonial rule. The original building was saved from demolition and went through expansions and alterations to become what it is today. Listed as a national Heritage Site, the interiors are set out like a traditional market, complete with colourful stalls brimming with an array of goods. It’s an especially great place to pick up arts and crafts. Goods represent the nation’s cultural and ethnic diversity.

What to do there: Admire the Art Deco façade from the outside before stepping into the lovely market to browse the diverse selection of goods. You’ll find traditional clothing, textiles, souvenirs, crafts, artworks, ceramics, collectibles, and more. Have a look in the Annexe, where you’ll find a number of top-class art galleries and pieces by local artists, and stop for a bite to eat in the second-floor food court. Outside, take a stroll along the lively Kasturi Walk, where you’ll find food vendors, souvenir stalls, and street entertainers.

#8 – Sultan Abdul Samad Building – A great place to see in Kuala Lumpur if you love architecture

• Colonial-period building with an important history
• Stunning architecture
• Earliest Moorish-style building in Kuala Lumpur
• Beautiful clock tower

Why it’s awesome: Situated close to Merdeka Square, the striking red and white Sultan Abdul Samad Building dates back to the 1890. Originally built to house the British colonial administrative offices, it later housed the country’s major courts and is today home to two government ministries. Initially known as simply Government House, it was later named after a Malay sultan. Designed in a Moorish style, it is the oldest such building in the city.

The two-level building is made from red bricks with white plaster details. The bells in the clock tower first rang out to celebrate the 1897 parade in hour of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, and they are still working today. The beautiful building is one of the city’s most photographed buildings and is a magnet for tourists.

What to do there: Gaze up at the 41-metre-high (134-foot-high) clock tower and listen for the enormous bell sounding the time every hour and half hour. At the base of the tower you can read a declaration of independence, in situ since 2007. Soak up the building’s overall splendour and notice the blend of Moorish, Gothic, and European styles. Be impressed by the elegant arches, grand porch, and glimmering onion domes atop the curvy colonnades. Visit the building at night time too to see it beautifully lit up.

#9 – National Museum of Malaysia – A fascinating educational place to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• Diverse collections
• Great place to learn more about the country’s past

Why it’s awesome: Open since 1963, the National Museum of Malaysia is the best place to learn more about the nation’s rich history, cultural diversity, heritage, and traditions. The large main building combines traditional Malay designs with modern elements, and there are a number of other interesting buildings scattered throughout the site too. The main building has four primary galleries dedicated to natural history and ethnology, with exhibits that range from ceramics, weaponry, and clothing, to musical instruments, everyday objects from yesteryear, and crafts. The museum also often hosts displays relating to world culture. Free tours are available on set days of the week, so plan ahead if you’re only on a 2 or 3-day itinerary in Kuala Lumpur .

What to do there: Explore the grounds of the National Museum of Malaysia, where you can see old-fashioned transportation methods like old carts, cars, and a steam train. Don’t miss the Proton Saga, the country’s first national car. Tour the different galleries, seeing the wide range of artefacts as you learn more about Malaysian life and history. Keen sportspeople shouldn’t miss looking in the National Sports Gallery. Travel back in time at Istana Satu, an ornate wood-built palace that was built in the 1880s and later moved to the museum grounds. Pop into the Orang Asli Crafts Museum to discover more about Malaysia’s earliest people and view interesting handicrafts.

#10 – KL Forest Eco Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• The only patch of tropical rainforest in the city
• Outdoor activities
• Site of one of the city’s first Malay settlements
• Major landmarks

Why it’s awesome: Previously known as Bukit Nanas (Pineapple Hill), KL Forest Eco Park contains a small hill and the only surviving tropical rainforest in the built-up city. The area was also home to one of the city’s earliest Malay settlements. Several interesting buildings are located on the hill, including the soaring Kuala Lumpur Tower and two colonial-period schools, yet it’s still a great place to escape the busy city streets and spend some time in nature. Visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities and there’s a small but interesting museum. The forest covers 22 acres (nine hectares) of land.

What to do there: Take a walk through the virgin rainforest along the jungle trails, looking out for diverse flora and fauna. There are plentiful birds and monkeys within the greenery. Test your head for heights on the cool canopy walk, stroll through the herb garden, and enjoy an al fresco lunch with a picnic surrounded by nature. Pop into the visitors centre and visit the forestry museum. You can also see the two colonial-built schools of Convent Bukit Nanas and the 1904 National Heritage Site St. John’s Institution.

#11 – Merdeka Square – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• Scene of the yearly National Day Parade
• First place where the Malaysian flag was lifted after the nation’s independence
• Surrounded by interesting architecture
• Historical significance

Why it’s awesome: Known locally as Dataran Merdeka, Mardeka Square is a large lawn at the heart of colonial Kuala Lumpur. The name translates as Independence Square and it was here that the British flag was lowered, replaced by the Malaysian flag for the first time when the country gained independence. The soaring flagpole is one of the tallest in the world and the national flag still flutters proudly in the breeze. There are several striking buildings around the square and today it’s a popular place for leisure and relaxation.

What to do there: While there isn’t actually an awful lot to do at Merdeka Square itself, it’s a must-visit for any travellers visiting Malaysia for its historical and cultural significance. See the gigantic flagpole and sit relaxing for a while in the sunshine on the grass. It’s a great place for kids to run and play too. You can also see the Cop’s Fountain, which was built in honour of a beloved police officer. Admire nearby fine buildings, such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, St. Mary’s Church, the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, and the Royal Selangor Club.

#12 – Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Kuala Lumpur!

• Tropical paradise
• Home to more than 200 species of birds
• Opportunity to hand feed birds
• Great place to take kids

Why it’s awesome: The family-friendly Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is among the biggest covered bird parks in the world. It houses some 3,000 birds from more than 200 species. Most of the birds are those that live in Malaysia, though there are also species brought from other places around the world, including Thailand, New Guinea, Australia, and Tanzania. Covering almost 21 acres (8.5 hectares), it’s a great place to spend a few hours with your kids or that special someone. The park has gift shops and places to stop for refreshments too.

What to do there: Plan to spend a few hours exploring the large bird park to fully appreciate the four terrific zones and the many types of birds. Walk through the net-covered aviary of Zone 1 and see avian species like pheasants, peacocks, flamingos, pelicans, kites, parakeets, and cockatiels. Cross the bridges into Zone 2 where you’ll come across birds like the ostrich, Nicobar pigeon, and Baya weaver. In Zone 3 you can try to spot the unusual and colourful hornbills in the towering treetops.

If you’re a fan of big birds and colourful avian species, head to Zone 4; inhabitants include a diverse selection of parrots, cassowaries, emus, and ostriches. Call into the Bird Gallery to learn more about taxidermy processes, stop at the feeding stations to watch birds being hand fed (and maybe have a go yourself), and see various bird shows throughout the day at the amphitheatre.

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#13 – Royal Museum – A great place to visit in Kuala Lumpur if you are alone/traveling solo

• Former royal palace
• Rooms are almost as they were when the royals lived there
• Great views
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: The Royal Museum is housed inside the old Istana Negara (royal palace). The building was still used as the royal residence up until 2011, having been the royal palace since the 1950s. The elegant building was initially constructed as a private home by an affluent Chinese tin trader. During wartime the building was used by the Japanese to house their officers and then, after surrender, the British RAF occupied the building. Later, it became the Malay National Palace. It’s now open to visitors, letting members of the public see how royalty lived until fairly recent times.

What to do there: Imagine that you’re a king or queen as you enter the opulent building and see lavish rooms furnished as they would have been when they were used by the Malaysian royal family. Feast your eyes on the splendour of the reception rooms, noting the heavy use of the royal colours of yellow and gold. The bedrooms are somewhat more basic in their furnishings, but it’s still interesting to see where royals once slept. Admire the sweeping views from the hillside location across the Klang River.

#14 – Jamek Mosque – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Kuala Lumpur

• Gorgeous religious building
• Open to non-Muslims
• No admission charges
• Great photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Kuala Lumpur’s stunning Jamek Mosque (also sometimes called the Friday Mosque) is one of the oldest Islamic mosques in the city. Built in the early 1900s, it was designed by the same architect responsible for the attractive Sultan Abdul Samad Building. It stands on the site of an old burial ground. The photogenic mosque was the main city mosque until the National Park was constructed. It was built in a typical Indian Mughal style and has many attractive details and features. It is free to look around the beautiful mosque.

What to do there: Be wowed by the glorious architecture of the red and white Jamek Mosque, complete with different sized minarets, and three large domes. Call into the Islamic Experience Centre to learn more about the faith and its traditions, history, and rituals. Walk through the pretty grounds, admiring the fountains and reflecting pools. Remember to dress modestly when visiting the mosques. Ladies can borrow headscarves and gowns to look around the religious building.

#15 – Thean Hou Temple – One of the nicer places in Kuala Lumpur to sightsee!

• Popular wedding venue
• Ornate and colourful Chinese temple
• One of the biggest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia
• Fairly new temple

Why it’s awesome: The large and beautiful Thean Hou Temple was built in the late 1980s by members of Malaysia’s Hainanese community. Among the largest temples in Southeast Asia, the six-tiered religious building fuses elements from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism and has modern features alongside traditional elements. There are many ornate details, vibrant colours, and interesting statues. Dedicated to Thean Hou, a Chinese goddess who looks over fishermen, there are several other deities honoured throughout the temple too.

Various events and celebrations are held at the temple throughout the year, with Chinese New Year and significant Buddhist holidays especially busy. Other celebrations include those in honour of the temple’s three main deities, and it’s a popular place for wedding ceremonies. Within the grounds there are also fortune tellers and classes in activities like tai-chi and qigong.

What to do there: Pass through the large red archway at the entrance to the temple and wander through the picturesque grounds. Find your birth animal according to Chinese astrology, with large statues set near the tortoise-filled pond. Make a wish at the Wishing Well, walk through the herb garden, stand beneath the sacred Boddhi tree, and pray to the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin, at the small ornamental waterfall. Admire the multi-level pagoda-like building from the outside before going inside to see various statues and religious art. See locals praying and seeking blessings at the major shrines, dedicated to Thean Hou, Guan Yin, and Wei Sheng Niang.

#16 – Aquaria KLCC – Awesome place to visit in Kuala Lumpur with kids!

• One of the biggest aquariums in Southeast Asia
• Opportunity to dive with sharks!
• Home to a vast array of aquatic creatures
• Fun and informative

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2005, Aquaria KLCC can be found within the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The huge aquarium is home to around 250 different species of aquatic and land-based creatures from around Malaysia and beyond. There are several themed areas, including those modelled after the highlands, rivers, rainforests, mangroves, reefs, and the sea, taking visitors along water’s journey from land to the ocean. Educational and informative, visitors are sure to learn lots of new interesting facts as they explore the gigantic aquarium. There’s also a large water-based gift shop.

What to do there: Learn more about the underwater world and chart water’s course across land until it meets the ocean. Marvel at a huge array of creatures, including corals, sea snakes, tiger sharks, groupers, seahorses, rays, eels, crabs, and catfish. Reptiles, spiders, otters, water rats, and frogs are among the land creatures you’ll find in the aquarium. Walk through the stretching underwater tunnel, watching as things like enormous stingrays and sharks swim all around you.

Observe fearsome piranhas devouring their food, discover more about conservation efforts, see the realistic shipwreck, watch unusual creatures, see various animals being fed, and get up close and personal with diverse creatures at the touch pools. If you’re feeling brave you can even go diving with sharks!

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#17 – Menara Kuala Lumpur – Great place to visit in Kuala Lumpur for couples!

• Incredible panoramic vistas
• Major city landmark
• Great revolving restaurant
• Among the world’s tallest communications towers

Why it’s awesome: In operation since 1995, the Menara Kuala Lumpur (also known as the KL Tower) is a prominent feature on the city’s skyline. It is 421 metres (1,381 feet) tall when the antenna is included. It is home to the city’s highest observation point accessible to the general public. The upper lobby has many exquisite and sparkling features, while the large shopping mall boasts beautiful fountains. There are many traditional Islamic decorative details Used as a communications tower, the tower also plays an important role during the Islamic month of Ramadan when it is used to spot the crescent moon.

What to do there: Ride in the super-fast elevators to reach the observation deck from where you can enjoy splendid sweeping views across the city; see if you can spot your Kuala Lumpur hostel ! Impress your sweetheart with a delicious meal in the stylish revolving restaurant and watch as the views change before your eyes. You can go up the tower both during the day and at night for different perspectives of the capital. Admire the large glass-covered domes in the upper lobby, floral patterns, beautiful tile work, and Quranic calligraphy. Shop for souvenirs, gifts, and lavish treats in the long mall. Outside, see the 100-year-old tree that was preserved during the construction of the tower.

#18 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple – A perfect place to visit in Kuala Lumpur if you are on a budget!

• Oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur
• Colourful and detailed
• Spiritual ambience
• No admission charge

Why it’s awesome: The Sri Mahamariamman Temple was built in the 1870s and it’s one of the oldest Hindu places of worship in Kuala Lumpur. Constructed as a serene spot where Tamil workers could take a break and get in touch with their spiritual side, the temple is still used as an important place of worship today. It has striking details, not least the large and colourful gopurum (tower) at the entrance.

There are numerous statues and lots of religious artwork inside too. It honours Goddess Mariamman, often viewed as a protector of Southern Indians overseas. The temple really bursts to life on holy days, particularly at Thaipusam, when a silver chariot departs from outside. There is no charge to enter the temple, though donations are appreciated.

What to do there: You should remember to dress respectfully and remove your shoes before entering the religious complex. Marvel at the multi-level gopurum, believed to act as the gateway between the material and spiritual worlds. The colourful tower has many intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, flowers, animals, and symbols. Inside, watch people pray and make offerings in the main temple building, inhale the sweet scents of burning incense, and soak up the peaceful air. Admire the rich surroundings, complete with scenes from the Ramayana, gorgeous tilework, hand-painted artwork, domed ceiling, and shrines.

#19 – Kampung Baru – One of the most underrated places to see in Kuala Lumpur

• Traditional street foods
• One of the city’s oldest residential areas
• Olde-world atmosphere and way of life
• Charming Malay enclave

Why it’s awesome: Kampung Baru is a delightful Malay enclave in the heart of the bustling city. It was founded at the end of the 19 th century. One of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest residential areas, it still feels like a traditional Malay community today. People live as they have done for many decades and the pace of life is unhurried and relaxed. There are many heritage buildings throughout the area and it’s a great place to see a way of life long since forgotten in most other parts of the rapidly changing city. It’s also a top destination for foodies!

What to do there: Spend some time leisurely strolling around Kampung Baru, smiling back at friendly locals, seeing the traditional buildings, and enjoying the peaceful vibe. See the politically important Kelab Sultan Sulaiman, the traditional dwelling of Rumah Limas, and the little blue house that’s known as Master Mat’s House. Call by Jamek Kampung Baru Mosque and Gurdwara Tatt Khalsa Temple, two of the area’s main religious buildings. Let your senses guide you along Jalan Raja Muda Musa, a fabulous place for street food, and sample a tasty array of local fare. If you’re still in Kampung Baru come evening time, visit the thriving fruit and veg market along Jalan Raja Alang.

#20 – Guan Di Temple – One of Kuala Lumpur’s coolest historical sites!

• Lesser-visited temple
• Links to martial arts
• Long history
• Interesting statues

Why it’s awesome: Guan Di Temple (also sometimes referred to as Kwong Siew Free School) is among the most impressive Taoist temples in Kuala Lumpur. Built in 1888, it hours the Chinese god of war and literature. Many believers come here to pray and seek help from the deity. The ornate temple is home to a mighty traditional Chinese weapon, known as Guan Dao. Weighing in at a whopping 59 kilograms (130 pounds), it is said that touching or lifting the weapon will bring good luck to people. The complex has many interesting statues and shrines too.

What to do there:  Pass the fearsome temple guards and lions to enter the complex and go to the back of the temple for a closer peek at the formidable wooden statue of Guan Di. Two other statues stand near the golden-faced God of War: Guan Ping (Guan Di’s godson) and Zhou Cang (Guan Di’s standard bearer). You can also see various other statues depicting Chinese gods and goddesses, including Guan Yin, Wen Chong, and Choy Sun. Try and lift the Guan Dao, thought to have magical powers, and take lots of photos of the glorious building, with its embellished roof and dragon pillars.

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#21 – Putrajaya – A very cool place in Kuala Lumpur to go for a day

• Striking mosque
• Lovely lake
• Lesser-visited destination
• Wildlife-filled wetlands

Why it’s awesome: Although technically a different area of Malaysia to Kuala Lumpur, the nearby city of Putrajaya is well worth visiting for a day from the Malaysian capital. It is home to a wealth of attractions and activities and sees relatively few foreign tourists. There are beautiful natural areas to discover, unusual architectural gems, historical sights, great shopping spots, and more. Putrajaya is the federal administrative centre of Malaysia and it is easy to reach from KL by bus or car.

What to do there: Visit the impressive Putra Mosque, open to non-Muslims, and admire the dusky-pink dome and interiors as well as the towering minarets. If you’re into unusual architecture, head to the Moroccan Pavilion. Showing the strong relationship between the two nations, the stunning pavilion showcases beautiful North African designs, with the finishing details completed by Moroccan artisans. Other interesting landmarks in Putrajaya include the prime minister’s official home of Seri Perdana, the Millennium Monument, the resort-style royal retreat of Istana Melawati, the Palace of Justice, and Perdana Putra.

Stand in Putra Square and National Heroes Square, learn more about the country’s natural treasures at the Natural History Museum, and shop till you drop in Alamanda Putrajaya. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Putrajaya Lake, China-Malaysia Friendship Garden, Putrajaya Wetlands Park, and the Botanical Gardens, while attractions like Putrajaya Equestrian Park and Putrajaya Water Sports Complex add an extra thrill to your trip.

#22 – Brickfields – Cool place to see in Kuala Lumpur with friends!

• Kuala Lumpur’s colourful Little India
• Many religious buildings
• Great places to eat
• Fantastic shopping opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Brickfields is Kuala Lumpur’s Little India, home to people from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and other nearby countries. Many residents are descendants of workers brought to Malaysia by the British. Vibrant and lively, visitors would be forgiven for thinking that they had somehow been transported to the large and diverse India when wandering around Brickfields. Shops sell traditional Indian items and there’s an abundance of tasty Indian dishes.  There are numerous interesting places of worship too.

What to do there: Hear modern Bollywood tunes coming from shops and take a peek inside to shop for saris, bangles, amulets, spices, and other Indian goods. Head into the large bazaar for even more fantastic shopping. Stop into a local restaurant for a banana leaf curry or other spicy speciality. Snap a picture or two of the pretty Vivekananda Ashram and visit serene places of worship like the Tamil Methodist Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Absorb the enticing Indian spirit without leaving the Malaysian capital.

#23 – Titiwangsa Lake Gardens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Kuala Lumpur

• Great place for leisure
• Varied activities
• Peaceful and quiet

Why it’s awesome: Titiwangsa Lake Gardens is a large public park with a number of shimmering lakes. Covering 235 acres (95 hectares), more than 50% of the park is lakes. The large lake was created during tin mining activities in the colonial days, and the area was later turned into a pleasant park. There are various activities, both on the water and on dry land, and it’s a nice place to relax and unwind for a couple of hours.

What to do there: Appreciate the pretty lake views and take to the waters for canoeing, kayaking, aqua biking, and rowing. Stroll around the water’s edge and get active with horse riding and jogging. You can also have heaps of fun at the radio controlled car track, which is especially popular with kids and teens. There are places to buy refreshments and great spots throughout the park for a picnic.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

What are the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for couples?

Spend a fun filled day cooling off at the Sunway Lagoon. The Water Park has heaps of slides, pools and a surf simulator!

What are the places to visit in Kuala Lumpur at night?

Head up the KL Tower at night, or even better, just as night is falling, for some stunning views over the city. There’s also a revolving restaurant up there!

What are some unique places to visit in Kuala Lumpur?

Slightly out of town is the stunning Batu Caves. This series of Hindu temples in a number of magnificent limestone caves is unmissable!

What are some relaxing places to visit in Kuala Lumpur?

Sit back and relax at Merdeka Square, one of the most culturally important spots in Malaysia. The large lawns of Independence Square are a wonderful place to watch the world go by.

Kuala Lumpur is an absolute gem and also one of the safest cities in Malaysia that you now know is a travelers wonderland just waiting for you to explore it. Enjoy high-end and high-street shopping in the city’s many malls, which include The Gardens Mall, Suria KLCC, Nu Sentral Shopping Centre, Quill City Mall, Sungei Wang Plaza, and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, and upgrade your electronics at the huge Plaza Low Yat.

Take day trips to places like Kuala Selangor, the Genting Highlands, and Port Dickson, take kids to the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park and National Science Centre, and cast your gaze skywards at the Planetarium Negara.

From beautiful religious buildings, theme parks, and colonial architecture to pretty parks, quaint hidden alleyways, street art, and bustling markets, there are plenty of reasons to go to Malaysia , and it all starts in KL Add these best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for a fantastic time in the Malaysian capital city.

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Kuala Lumpur travel blog — The fullest KL guide for first-timers

If you come to Malaysia without visiting the capital Kuala Lumpur is really a shortcoming. Although prices are expensive compared to other cities, this is a mix of cultures such as India, China, Malaysia and even Western countries. Therefore, a journey here will bring you many new and exciting experiences. Along with Living Nomads to save some of Kuala Lumpur’s travel experiences in a self-sufficient trip to explore the city in the most complete way. So, are you looking for a budget trip to Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur budget travel)? Let’s check it our Kuala Lumpur blog (Kuala Lumpur travel blog, KL blog, KL travel blog) to find out some useful tips and KL travel guide with Living Nomads below.

• Where to stay in KL? — Top 8 best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur for the first-timers
• Best infinity pools in Kuala Lumpur— 10+ best Kuala Lumpur hotels with infinity pool with breathtaking views of the city
• Top rooftop bars in KL — 13+ best sky bars & best rooftop bars in Kuala Lumpur
• 2 days in Kuala Lumpur itinerary — How to spend 48 hours in KL & what to do in Kuala Lumpur for 2 days?
• Where to shop in Kuala Lumpur? — 8 best places & best shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur trip cost: The travel cost of self-sufficient travel in Kuala Lumpur

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The fastest way to get to Kuala Lumpur is by plane, you can fly straight from Tan Son Nhat International Airport or Noi Bai Airport to KLIA2 (international airport). The price for a direct flight is less than 100 dollars (about 2 million VND). Some airlines that you can choose from are Air Asia, Malaysia Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, …

After arriving at Kuala Lumpur Airport, you can take the bus to KL Sentral Station. You will lose about 10 ringgit and about 75 minutes to get to the center. If you do not want to go to KL Sentral Station, you can take Jetbus to TBS (Bersepadu Selatan Terminal). From this place, you can still go to other places in the city by boat.

Accommodation cost

For accommodation in the city of Kuala Lumpur, you will have a lot of options with many different prices. Normally, if you choose mid-range hotels you will spend about 15 – 20 dollars/night. High quality or renowned hotels will have a higher cost, at least 25 dollars. Another solution to the staying problem is to choose dorm rooms – rent a bed in a shared room with many other people. This type of accommodation will cost you about 4 – 11 dollars/bed/ night. However, from the Kuala Lumpur travel experience, the biggest disadvantage of this dormitory is not being private and safe.

Owning a culture of convergence from many countries such as India, China, Singapore and also indigenous, Malaysian cuisine is a mix of all flavors. And the capital of Malaysia is a place where you can enjoy the most unique culinary experience. The traditional nasi lemak is full of coconut milk, grilled dishes, and street food. The price for a typical dish is 1 – 4 dollars and the price for a meal is less than 25 dollars.

Kuala Lumpur budget travel tips: Kuala Lumpur travel experiences for saving trip cost

Making plan.

In order to have the best travel to Kuala Lumpur, you should choose for yourself a specific route before departure. Get started with booking air tickets and hotel rooms. If you choose the low season or the promotion randomly, you can save a bit of money.

You can also buy tickets in Kuala Lumpur available, including tickets to the Kuala Lumpur Observatory, Aquaria Aquarium or Genting Highland. This also helps reduce the cost of travel and accommodation, while also giving you more time to arrange fun activities to suit the members of the delegation. Read more:  Kuala Lumpur 1 day itinerary — How to spend 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur?

Selecting the appropriate accommodation

If you want to save money when traveling on a self-sufficient basis, you can choose to stay in areas such as Bukit Bintang, Chinatown, Chow Kit, etc. These sites own the infrastructure with many motels options, hotel with the price is very cheap. Especially the Chinatown, one of the busiest and most “chestnuts” price in Kuala Lumpur.

Shopping in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur self-sufficient experience is you can find soft goods at Lot 10 that sell genuine clothes at cheap prices. Also, you can also search in Chinatown. This is one of the cheaper areas in the city and especially it is close to many attractions.

Use public transportation

For transportation in the city, you can choose a bus, train or taxi. If traveling to Kuala Lumpur alone, you should take the bus or train because the price of each trip is only about 1 – 10 dollars in each location. While traveling with a large group, renting a taxi will help your team move more freely and comfortably. The only note is that you have to pay the price firmly with the driver before boarding.

KL blog: Where to stay?

To find out some best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur, plz read: Where to stay in KL? — Top 8 best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur for the first-timers .

Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

MOV Hotel (Address: 43, Jalan Berangan, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2781 9888), 4-star hotel with room rates from $33/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur (Address: Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2147 0088), 5-star hotel with room rates from $50/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Impiana KLCC Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Address: Impiana Klcc Hotel & Spa, 13, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2147 1111), 4-star hotel with room rates from $53/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Address: 5, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Tasik Perdana, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2785 8000), 5-star hotel with room rates from $73/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Sunway Putra Hotel (Address: 100, Jalan Putra, Chow Kit, 50350 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-4040 9888), 5-star hotel with room rates from $46/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Kuala Lumpur Journal (Address: 30, Jalan Beremi, Off, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2110 2211), 5-star hotel with room rates from $62/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Oasia Suites Kuala Lumpur by Far East Hospitality (Address: 10, Lorong P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2726 6788), 4-star hotel with room rates from $36/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral (Address: No. 5, Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2723 1188), 4-star hotel with room rates from $60/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur (Address: Persiaran KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2332 9888), 5-star hotel with room rates from $77/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur (Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2380 8888), 5-star hotel with room rates from $144/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur (Address: 12, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2182 1234), 5-star hotel with room rates from $132/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur City Centre (Address: 73, Jalan Raja Chulan, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2141 9988), 5-star hotel with room rates from $50/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Address: 11, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia / Phone: +60 3-2032 2388), 5-star hotel with room rates from $83/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find more, check rates, availability & booking for Kuala Lumpur hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com or Airbnb.com.

Kuala Lumpur blog: Self-sufficient Kuala Lumpur Travel Experiences – Explore best attractive places and top things to do you can not miss

Visit the petronas twin towers.

Known as the world’s tallest twin tower, Petronas is 1,500 meters high. Every day, thousands of visitors come to this tower to take photos with the symbol Malaysia. And not only that, you can also see the panoramic city from the bridge which is connected between the two towers. The fee for visiting the tower is about 21 dollars. However, the number of tickets is limited and usually out of very fast, so you need to be in the twin towers early to get tickets.

The bustling markets of Kuala Lumpur

Come to the local markets to feel the noise, excitement and the most authentic in the lives of local people. These markets are full of electronics, food, clothing, and accessories. Most prominent are Central Market, Jl Petaling Market in Chinatown, Night Market ‘Pasar Tani’ and ‘Pasar Malam’.

National Museum

The National History Museum is a great place to get acquainted with the history and culture of Malaysia. The artifacts include a human skull 40,000 years ago and an eight-sided golden coin dating back to the 15th century. The museum fee is pretty cheap for about 1.5 dollars.

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The best countries to travel to in Southeast Asia

From indonesia to malaysia, the must-visit destinations on this corner of the continent, article bookmarked.

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Southeast Asia is a blend of fascinating traditions and cultures, with some of the most incredible temples, palaces and natural sites on the planet.

This region is home to famed attractions, from Angkor Wat to Ha Long Bay, as well as a selection of sprawling cities – including Bangkok , Kuala Lumpur and Singapore – and miles of pristine coastlines around Indonesia and the Philippines.

And though places such as Bangkok and Singapore have seen high numbers of British tourists for decades, other destinations are starting to attract more people, from lesser-known Laos to the neighbouring backpacker favourite of Cambodia .

Whether you’re looking to throw yourself into exploring a city or hop around a handful of serene tropical islands, your options are pentiful in this corner of the world.

Below are Independent Travel’s  picks for the region’s best countries to visit on holiday; read on to start planning your next long-haul getaway.

Thailand has long been a tourist favourite for Brits, whether for travelling youngsters or business people. Its capital, Bangkok (known locally as Krung Thep) was the most visited city in the world for several years in a row before Covid and is just a short journey away from the ancient city of Ayutthaya .

With dozens of famous white-sand beaches around the country (such as Railay and Ko Phi Phi ), as well as several areas of natural beauty (one of the most unique being Khao Sok National Park) and dozens of temples and palaces, Thailand offers anyone visiting the country a diverse mix of sightseeing, city experiences and relaxation – not to mention the nation’s delicious cuisine.

Best time to visit Thailand

With a rainy season falling between July and October, the best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are higher (with average highs in the early 30s). May is usually a quieter time to visit, but the sunshine may be interrupted by short rain periods.

Vietnam’s various areas of natural beauty are among the most notable in the region. Ha Long Bay is the country’s most famous natural area, while the beaches of Phu Quoc and the Cham Islands offer equal beauty in different settings. Other natural attractions include the caves of Phong Nha and Hang Son Doong, the Marble Mountains and the sand dunes at Mui Ne.

As for cities, Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi and Da Nang are the best destinations for those who want to experience Vietnamese ‘hustle and bustle’ (Da Nang also has beach areas), while Hoi An is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Vietnam’ due to its canals and the well-preserved Ancient Town comprised of wooden Chinese shophouses and French colonial buildings.

Best time to visit Vietnam

April and September fall just before and after the high season in Vietnam and also offer less humidity and lower temperatures than at the peak of summer. With weather that can vary quite drastically across the country in different months, these should give the best weather across the board too.

Read more on Asia travel :

• Why you should visit Koh Samui now
• Can Cambodia become Southeast Asia’s sustainable travel capital?
• Celebrating Thailand’s Songkran festival in Chiang Mai

Singapore is a popular destination for British expats, with an estimated 50,000 living there. It’s a country that is almost unlike any other; its urban planning strategy has created a metropolis and enabled almost six million people to live in an area roughly half the size of London.

Despite its diminutive size, the country offers numerous attractions , from its Botanic Gardens (a Unesco world heritage site) and historical and art museums to the Gardens by the Bay , a nature park spanning 101 hectares, and a Universal Studios theme park. It also hosts a Formula 1 race, which takes place in September on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Best time to visit Singapore

Singapore has significant rainfall all year, although the country’s dry season falls between February and April, when humidity levels are also at their lowest. Specifically, February and September offer the lowest rainfall and humidity, with average highs of around 31C. September also falls in low season.

By far the largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia lies at the southern end of the region and consists of roughly 17,500 islands, including Sumatra and Bali. With so many islands, it’s no surprise that the archipelago contains some of the region’s most attractive areas. Bali in particular is a tourism hotspot, while many of the islands offer tropical rainforests, rugged terrain and even volcanoes (the country sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is prone to both eruptions and earthquakes).

Jakarta is the capital and largest city in the country and is located – along with the popular tourist town of Yogyakarta– on the island of Java. Idyllic locations include Lombok and the Raja Ampat islands; Bromo Tengger Semeru and Komodo National Parks offer unreal nature and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Best time to visit Indonesia

The dry season usually runs from April to October, which is also when the country welcomes the most tourists. If you want to avoid crowds, May and June offer average highs of roughly 31C and over eight hours of sunshine per day.

Malaysia’s culture is an eclectic mix of European, Chinese, Indian and Malay influences, while the country itself is famous for its rainforest, beaches and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur , with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers being one of the country’s most iconic symbols.

Away from the capital, many tourists decide to visit the Malaysian part of Borneo – in the north of the island – where rainforest treks, wildlife viewing and relaxing on the beach are all possible. The Perhentian Islands and Sipadan are two other popular destinations, while nature-lovers flock to the Batu Caves, Mount Kinabalu and the Cameron Highlands.

Best time to visit Malaysia

You can expect fewer crowds from March to June; these months have average temperatures of around 28C, while June is the driest month of the year (though bear in mind you can still expect showers every month).

Philippines

Another archipelago, the Philippines consists of more than 7,000 islands. Under Spanish rule for over 300 years, it is one of the only predominantly Roman Catholic countries in the whole continent and has been widely influenced by Western culture and traditions. For those keen to see its cities, Manila is the capital while Quezon is the largest.

Tropical white-sand beaches are plentiful on the nation’s thousands of isles, while the volcanoes of Mayon and Tail offer dramatic scenery overlooking the water. Other sites include Sigma Lagoon, Pagsanjan Falls and the Batad rice terraces.

Best time to visit the Philippines

The Philippines dry season falls right in the middle of the low season for tourism. The driest months are between January and March, where there is little rainfall and humidity falls to much more tolerable levels. Expect temperatures of up to 24C – and lows of 15C – every day.

Cambodia welcomes visitors eager to learn about its complicated history and experience its mix of Asian and French culture. A largely rural country, only three of its cities are home to over 100,000 people despite the country’s 16 million-strong population. Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city, while Siem Reap is another metropolitan centre that also acts as the gate to Angkor Wat, an ancient temple which today is the largest religious structure in the world.

The country’s islands, such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, contain pristine white beaches, sandy coves and coral reefs , and are popular spots for partying too. The Cardamom mountain range stretches over 4.4 million hectares of rainforest through the Southeast and into eastern Thailand, and is home to a vast range of wildlife, including sun bears, elephants and Siamese crocodiles. Tonle Sap lake is the largest in Southeast Asia, with its waters and floodplain home to over three million people and hundreds of different animal species.

Best time to visit Cambodia

Temperatures are at their lowest in the dry season between November and February, but you’ll still see average highs of 30C.

Laos is one of the continent’s smaller countries, and its shared borders – with Vietnam to the east, Thailand to the west and Cambodia to the south – give you an indication of the geography that you’ll find here. Whether you want to go through dense jungle on a cruise along the winding Mekong River, trek through the jagged karst around Vang Vieng or simply relax in the laid-back capital of Vientiane, there’s something to appeal.

Laos’ most important landmark is the Pha That Luang, a golden Buddhist stupa in Vientiane, while the capital’s other highlights include temples like Wat Si Saket and the old quarter. If you have time, visit the peaceful Song River and the town of Vang Vieng, before exploring the Unesco city of Luang Prabang and surrounding nature, including waterfalls, plunge pools and the banks of the Mekong.

Best time to visit Laos

The weather is Laos is best between October and April, when conditions are dry and not too warm. For river cruises, November through to January is best for high water levels, while August is both the wettest and most humid month.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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Visa-free travel to China for M'sians extended till end of 2025, says envoy

Tuesday, 07 May 2024

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Visa-free travel extended till 2025

Malaysia should extend visa waiver for chinese tourists, says mca vice-president, calls to extend visa-free policy.

KUALA LUMPUR: Visa-free travel to China for Malaysian citizens has been extended until the end of 2025, says Ouyang Yujing.

The Chinese ambassador to Malaysia announced in his speech during the launch of the Malaysia-China Commemorative Forum on Tuesday (May 7).

"Just yesterday (Monday), Chinese President Xi Jinping announced in France that the visa-free policy for citizens from 12 countries, including Malaysia, to come to China will be extended until the end of 2025.

"This will further promote the exchange and cooperation in our two countries," he said.

On Monday (May 6), Xi said in France that China has decided to extend visa exemption entry for citizens from 12 countries on short-term visits to China until the end of 2025.

He made the announcement during the closing ceremony of the Sixth Meeting of China-France Business Council.

The 15-day visa-free policy would allow Malaysian citizens holding ordinary passports to enter China for business, tourism, family visits and transit purposes.

China first announced on Nov 24 last year an earlier visa-free travel for six European countries and Malaysia until Nov 30, 2024.

Tags / Keywords: Visa-free , China , travel , Ouyang Yujing

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ISLAMIC TOURISM CENTRE RETURNS TO THE ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET 2024 TO CAPTIVATE THE MIDDLE EAST REGION

Islamic Tourism Centre representative at the Arabian Travel Market, sharing information on Malaysia’s Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality initiatives to interested visitors.

DUBAI, 7 MAY 2024: Committed to showcasing Malaysia’s outstanding Muslim-friendly tourism experiences, the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), is actively participating in the prestigious Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024. The event takes place from 6-9 May 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, and ITC represents one of the exhibitors located at the Malaysia Pavilion (Hall 7, Table 21).

This four-day international platform provides ITC with an opportunity to market and highlight the latest Muslim-friendly attractions and their recognitions namely the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) and the Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guide (MFTG), both tailored meticulously by ITC to cater to the faith-based needs of Muslim travellers ensuring a seamless and spiritually enriching travel experience in Malaysia.

Building upon the success of 2023, where Malaysia was honoured as the Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC) and the inaugural recipient of the Top Muslim Women-Friendly Destination 2023 award, ITC is poised to further enhance its top position, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment as the preferred Muslim-friendly destination.

With a projected global influx of Muslim tourists reaching 230 million by 2028, with a collective expenditure of USD225 billion, ITC recognises the significant potential in the Middle East region. Notably, four out of five countries with the most outbound Muslim travel in 2019 (before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic), were Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Kuwait.

The Malaysia Pavilion represents the breadth of offerings available to tourists of all backgrounds and beliefs, regardless of nationality. ITC eagerly anticipates collaborating with industry stakeholders to once again welcome visitors to Malaysian shores and experience the warm hospitality, the diverse heritage and culture, colourful festivals, Halal gastronomy, family-friendly experiences, and more.

In conjunction with its participation at ATM 2024, ITC is proud to announce the upcoming World Islamic Tourism Conference (WITC), scheduled for 12-13 September 2024. WITC aims to foster dialogue, innovation, and collaboration within the Islamic tourism industry. This conference serves as a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore opportunities for advancing Muslim-friendly tourism globally. Through engaging discussions and insightful presentations, WITC looks to contribute to shaping the future of Islamic tourism and further elevating Malaysia’s role as a key player in this dynamic sector.

Visit the ITC booth at Malaysia Pavillion (Hall 7, Table 21) or contact our representatives, Khairul Iman (+6013-2892609 / [email protected]) or Syed Muneer (+6016-2472981 / [email protected]) to tap into the Muslim tourist market with ITC.

About Islamic Tourism Centre

Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) is an entity under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Malaysia, tasked to develop the Islamic Tourism segment for Malaysia. It advocates for Muslim-friendly tourism (MFT) by offering research and market intelligence, training, industry development consultation, Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) services standards and recognition, and information exchange.

Malaysia was named the top country in the region in the MFTH sector by the State of the Global Islamic Economy (SGIE) Report 2022. The country also retained the top-ranked destination in the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023, a position it has defended since the launch of the Index in 2015. In the same year, Malaysia was recognised as the Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC) and the Top Muslim Women-Friendly Destination of the Year in Halal in Travel Awards 2023.

In addition, ITC was named the recipient of the Strategic Business Alliance Award at The BrandLaureate World Halal Best Brand E-Branding Awards 2021. It is a recognition of ITC’s efforts and endeavours in formulating new strategies to meet the new normal of the business environment to ensure business continuity and sustainability, notwithstanding its role in developing and growing the Islamic tourism segment in Malaysia.

These recognitions are an added motivation for ITC to continue to strengthen its efforts in being a prime mover and leading institution to ensure Malaysia is at the forefront of MFTH.

For further details, kindly contact:

Islamic Tourism Centre,

Level 13, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia

No. 2 Tower 1, Jalan P5/6,

Precinct 5, 62200 Putrajaya, Malaysia

Tel: 03-8891 7177 or via email [email protected]

Follow ITC on these social platforms:

Facebook: Islamic Tourism Centre

Instagram: @itc_my

LinkedIn: Islamic Tourism Centre

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YouTube: Islamic Tourism Centre

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U.S. Department of the Treasury

Media advisory: under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence brian nelson to travel to singapore and malaysia.

WASHINGTON – From May 6 th to May 9 th , Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson and Treasury General Counsel Neil MacBride will travel to Singapore and Malaysia to advance Treasury’s work countering terrorist financing and revenue generation by Iran and its proxies as well as to discuss the implementation of sanctions and export controls against Russia. Treasury has imposed significant sanctions on Iran and its terrorist proxies, such as Hizballah, Hamas, and the Houthis, to sever the financial flows that fuel instability in the Middle East. Since the beginning of this year, Treasury has taken several significant actions to combat and disrupt the illicit shipment of Iranian oil to buyers in East Asia, including shipments via ship-to-ship transfers in international waters near Singapore and Malaysia.  Treasury has continued working with the U.S. private sector to prevent diversion of dual-use goods to Russia. 

In Malaysia, Under Secretary Nelson and General Counsel MacBride will discuss the United States’ efforts to disrupt terrorist financing, including through fundraising for fraudulent charities and illicit oil sales, while ensuring that U.S. sanctions and other financial measures do not impede the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.  They will also meet with the financial sector to discuss compliance and enforcement efforts. 

In Singapore, the Treasury officials will continue coordination with this close U.S. partner on sanctions and export controls against Russia for its brutal war of aggression in Ukraine, including through enforcement of the price cap on Russian oil and cutting off Russian transshipment of critical dual use goods. They will also meet with business representatives from both the financial and maritime sectors to discuss compliance and enforcement efforts to reduce Russian revenue earned from oil sales and to protect industry from the risks of Russian and Russia-linked providers who have sacrificed quality and safety in their services.

Finally, Under Secretary Nelson and General Counsel MacBride will continue coordination on efforts to disrupt revenue generation by the DPRK, particularly revenue generated through cybercrime and the use of virtual assets.  They will also discuss ways to improve global implementation of the Financial Action Task Force standards related to virtual asset service providers to prevent illicit actors from abusing the international financial system.