Kuala Lumpur is often treated as a quick stopover on the way to other parts of South-East Asia, but stay a little longer, and you’ll quickly see why it deserves full attention. You’ll find serene temples tucked between glass towers, lively markets serving fragrant street food, green parks that feel miles from the city, and lively nightlife that keeps going until late.
Over a few days in this vibrant capital, you’ll get a taste of the diverse influences that shape Malaysia’s most eclectic city. Whether you’re after culture, cityscapes, nature or after‑hours fun, this list covers our favourite experiences in KL, and a few lesser-known gems too.
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Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur
If you’re still unsure about spending time in Kuala Lumpur, this list should help. These are our favourite things to do in KL – a selection of well-known highlights and places you might not come across unless someone tells you about them.
1. Kuala Lumpur Forest Eco Park (Formerly Bukit Nanas)
Kuala Lumpur might be Malaysia’s largest city, but if you go to the Forest Eco Park, you will feel as if you’re miles away in the middle of the jungle. This tiny eco-reserve is located so close to KLCC that it can be hard to believe it exists at all. The park is nestled at the feet of the KL Tower on a hill that lets you overlook parts of the city.
What makes it unique are the elevated footpaths strung through the trees at heights of up to 20 metres. Definitely, a great spot to take pictures.
The park is completely free and easily reachable via the Bukit Nanas Monorail or the Dang Wangi LRT station. You should combine your visit with going to the KL Tower since the two attractions are so close to each other. You should plan to spend around 45 minutes to one hour here. Bring insect repellent spray! The mosquitoes are very persistent.
2. KL Tower
While most people rush to the Petronas Towers, I’d actually recommend KL Tower if you want the best city views. It’s perched on Bukit Nanas, the same hill as the Forest Eco Park, and has both an indoor deck and an open-air Sky Terrace. You can buy tickets for either or both.
The views are better than you’d expect, and without glass in the way, your photos will turn out brilliantly. There are also two glass boxes hanging over the edge if you fancy something a bit hair-raising.
It’s cheaper than the Petronas Towers, and if you’re only picking one, KL Tower gives you a clearer shot of the skyline, especially with the Petronas Towers in the frame.
You’ll likely spot Merdeka 118 rising in the distance, too. It’s now Malaysia’s tallest building, although the observation deck isn’t open to the public just yet.
3. Go on A Free Walking Tour
The best way to get to know a new city is with a walking tour, and KL has some great ones to choose from. We loved the Mysteries of Religion and Culture in Kuala Lumpur tour, which we’ve done twice now. It’s available almost every day and takes around 2.5 hours, which is a nice duration.
The guides share so many different anecdotes and stories that you wouldn’t have known otherwise, and I have a much better appreciation of KL having done the tour.
The walking tours are completely free, but make sure to tip your guide at the end. Signing up is a must, so make sure to pre-book your slot – no payment needed.
4. Batu Caves
The Batu Caves are probably Kuala Lumpur’s most spectacular and unique attraction. They’re a set of caves located about 14 km from the city centre. Their iconic rainbow steps and golden statue of Lord Murugan are the subject of many photos and should be at the top of your to-do list, especially if you only have a few days in KL.
Within the caves, you can find multiple temples that act as a pilgrimage destination for millions of Hindus every year, especially during the popular Thaipusam festival
Entrance to the Batu Caves is free, although they charge a small fee for some of the smaller side-caves. The Batu Caves can be easily reached via the KTM Komuter train that takes about 35 minutes from KL Sentral, or you can take a tour from KL.
5. KLCC Park
KLCC Park is a quick and easy destination you should definitely include in your next trip to Kuala Lumpur. Located at the bottom of the Petronas Towers, the park is easy to reach via the red LRT line and should not be missed.
There is a 1.4 km running track that lets you enjoy the stunning view of the Petronas Towers while exercising. You will find plenty of seating, grassy lawns for picnics and an expansive children’s playground including a water area.
Surround yourself with exotic palm trees and flowers, and enjoy a little break from the bustling streets. I recommend going here before 10 am to avoid the crowds. Many people do Tai Chi here during this time, and everything feels peaceful and serene.
Since the park is free and easily accessible, you should definitely visit it when you are in KL. If you walk through the park, you should be able to spend about 30 to 45 minutes here since it is not very large. But why not plan a bit more time and have a picnic?
6. Have a Drink in a Speakeasy
Kuala Lumpur is famous for its speakeasies. These are remnants of a time of prohibition and have turned into a major tourist attraction in KL. Today, there are countless secret bars with more or less hidden entrances, which you will definitely not stumble upon by accident if you do not know exactly where they are.
Many of them are in and around Chinatown and Bukit Bintang, although some can also be found in KLCC and even the outskirts.
Some of our past favourites include ‘The Attic’, ‘Botak Liquor’ and, of course, the famous ‘PS150’ whose entrance is hidden in an old toy shop. There are plenty more to explore. Most of them offer expensive but extravagant cocktails and a great atmosphere.
Visiting a speakeasy is a great way to immerse yourself in Kuala Lumpur’s history and experience its mysterious side.
7. Chow Kit Market
Chow Kit Market is the largest wet market in Kuala Lumpur. It’s a giant, maze-like cluster of stalls selling just about anything you can imagine. The main attractions are the large selection of fresh fish and meats, as well as just about every fruit and vegetable under the sun.
There is also a large part of the market that offers clothing items, shoes and other accessories. Many traditional tailors have stalls here.
In addition to that, the street food selection is, of course, phenomenal. Definitely, plan to spend at least an hour, maybe more, here and try the many kinds of fried desserts and other traditional dishes.
You can reach Chow Kit Market by taking the Monorail to Chow Kit Station or even walking there from KLCC. It’s not too far away if you don’t mind the heat.
8. Go to a Shopping Mall
Kuala Lumpur has an insane number of shopping malls. They are clustered within Bukit Bintang and KLCC, and are your one-stop shop for everything you need.
Some of them are unique, such as ‘Low Yat’, which exclusively sells electronics. Then there is ‘Berjaya Times Square’, the shopping mall giant at the edge of Bukit Bintang. It includes an indoor theme park, a shooting range, laser tag and a bowling alley.
Even if you do not plan to go shopping on your trip to KL, you should not skip the malls. Most of them have amazing food courts with low prices and authentic food. I especially recommend going to Lot 10’s Houtong food court, which has some of KL’s best street food. It’s award-winning.
9. Explore Chinatown
Like many large cities, Kuala Lumpur, of course, has a Chinatown, which is well worth exploring. The area around Petaling Street is quite famous and should not be missed. Due to the large Chinese population in KL, the culture here is very authentic and especially the street food is world-class.
You should visit ‘Sin Sze Si Ya’ and ‘Sri Mahamariamman’ temples while you are there and, of course, don’t neglect Petaling Street, Central Market and Kasturi Walk.
These three markets blend into each other and offer a wide spectrum of merchandise and food. You can find fake clothing, shoes, makeup, electronics and accessories here, although at very high prices if you don’t barter. Come here for authentic Chinese dishes, especially the soy pudding with brown sugar.
Chinatown should definitely be visited in the late afternoon or evening to experience its atmosphere. Take the LRT or MRT to Pasar Seni Station, which will leave you right at Central Market.
10. Walk Around Perdana Botanical Gardens
Perdana Botanical Gardens is the largest green space in central Kuala Lumpur. They cover an area of 91.6 hectares and are a great way of escaping the busy city. The botanical gardens are perfect for walking around, exploring and admiring the many species of flora and fauna you can find here.
There’s a large lake at the centre of the botanical gardens and a designated hibiscus and orchid garden. If you explore further, you’ll come across an herb and spice garden and a palm garden. So many gardens…
While you’re there, you can also visit the National Mosque, National Monument and Planetarium. All are located very close to Perdana Botanical Gardens and make for a perfect day-trip. You can spend around 2 hours or more here, as the area is so big. Entrance is usually free, although there may sometimes be a small charge on the weekends; however, I have never been charged that.
To get to the gardens, go to Muzium Negara Station or take a Grab to reach the gardens.
11. Try All the Streetfood at Jalan Alor
Jalan Alor is Kuala Lumpur’s famous food street that comes to life every night at around 6:00 PM. The restaurants here serve predominantly seafood, but there are some smaller hawker stalls with other options.
Jalan Alor is the perfect place to find a midnight snack before you head out to some of the bars in Bukit Bintang.
The street gets very busy and is worth a visit for the atmosphere alone. You need to try at least some of the delicacies offered here and enjoy an evening at Jalan Alor.
12. Visit Thean Hou Temple
Thean Hou Temple is not very famous amongst tourists, and you won’t find the crowds of people here that populate more well-known attractions such as Chinatown, the Batu Caves and the Petronas Towers.
Thean Hou is a Buddhist Temple that sits on top of a hill overlooking parts of Kuala Lumpur. There is no entry fee for the temple, and its architecture is some of the most beautiful I have seen in Malaysia.
It’s a bit tricky to reach with public transport, and I would advise you to take a Grab or taxi to avoid having to walk up the steep hill in the hot sun. The temple is usually quiet and ideal for taking pictures if you go on a sunny day.
13. Wander Around Brickfields
Brickfields is Kuala Lumpur’s Little India and the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the busy city. You’ll find a vast selection of restaurants and authentic Indian food here. It’s a must-visit if you’re a vegetarian.
When you are there, make sure to walk over to Sri Kandaswamy Kovil Temple, a Hindu place of worship. Tourists are not allowed to enter the temple, but its beautiful exterior is worth having a look at.
Brickfields is easily reached via KL Sentral Station, Kuala Lumpur’s main transport hub.
14. Taman Connaught Night Market
This night market is slightly off the beaten track, and you will have to take a Grab or taxi to reach it. You won’t regret putting in the extra effort.
Taman Connaught is Kuala Lumpur’s longest market and spans over more than 2 km. You can find anything here, from clothes, electronics, to pet accessories and most importantly, food.
Taman Connaught has such a large selection of food and snacks that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Come hungry so you can attempt to try it all.
The market runs every Wednesday evening from 5:00 pm until midnight. It gets busy at around 7 pm, so prepare for crowds.
15. Dine in Sri Nirwana Maju Restaurant
Sri Nirwana Maju Restaurant, or simply Nirwana, is one of Kuala Lumpur’s best restaurants and a popular dinner place for expats and locals alike.
Nirwana serves authentic banana leaf meals at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is homely and friendly despite its location amongst more upscale establishments.
If you want to experience a piece of Kuala Lumpur’s Indian culture, eating at a banana leaf restaurant is a must. Nirwana is the perfect place.
16. National Museum
Kuala Lumpur’s National Museum should be on your itinerary if you’re interested in learning about Malaysia’s history and the significance of the capital city. Even if you’re usually not a fan of visiting museums while travelling, you should give this one a try. The entrance fee is minimal, so it won’t hurt your budget.
The museum is divided into different time periods of history, from prehistoric to modern times.
You will, unfortunately, encounter rain during your time in KL, and the National Museum is the perfect way to wait out the bad weather inside.
17. Enjoy a Drink With a View at Helipad Lounge
The Helipad Lounge, on the 34th floor of Menara KH, is probably Kuala Lumpur’s most famous bar. It boasts spectacular views of the skyline and reasonably cheap drinks.
The bar is set up every night on an active helipad. Seating is basic, but the views are worth the climb. There is only a flimsy barrier to separate its customers from the heart-stopping drop over the edge, so don’t go if you have a fear of heights. Or at least stick to the centre of the platform.
The Helipad Lounge opens every evening at 5 pm. Reserving a table is smart if you’re planning to arrive later. Otherwise, you might be asked to stand. After 9 pm, the bar has a strict dress code, and you’ll find a minimum spend for tables. Before that, it’s perfect to watch the sunset and enjoy some beers.
18. Grab Street Food at Tapak Urban Dining
Tapak Urban Street Dining puts a modern twist on street food and is a dinner idea you won’t find on every ‘Things to do in Kuala Lumpur’ list.
Every night at 6 pm, a wide variety of food trucks gather only 400 metres from the Petronas Towers. This is the project of three high school friends who opened Tapak Urban Street Dining in 2016.
The concept is simple – affordable food from all over the world served in a street-style open-air setting.
There is no better place to grab dinner. Enjoy both international as well as local dishes from friendly food truck vendors for unbeatable prices.
Rainy evening? No problem, Tapak even offers roofed seating areas, so there’s no need to get wet.
19. Visit Petronas Towers
The Petronas Towers are Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic landmark. No trip to the city is complete without visiting the world’s largest twin towers.
While it’s free to admire them from the bottom, you have to buy a ticket if you want to go to the top. Ticket sales are restricted to a certain number of visitors. It’s best to purchase your tickets online up to a week in advance, especially if you want to visit during a specific time. You will have only around 45 minutes to visit the Sky Bridge and Observation Deck.
In my opinion, the Petronas Towers are best seen from KLCC Park or the crossing of Jalan Ampang and Jalan P Ramlee. If you have the time, it’s definitely worth going to the top of the towers; however, we do think the KL Tower has a better view.
20. Discover Bukit Bintang
Bukit Bintang is Kuala Lumpur’s busy shopping and nightlife district. Going here at least once is a must on your trip. In Bukit Bintang, you’ll find the most popular shopping malls and upscale restaurants.
At night, Changkat is the best destination for lively bars and late–night drinks. Don’t miss out on some of the speakeasies, as well as Jalan Alor.
During the day, you should take some time to stroll through the busy streets, have lunch in a food court and explore some of the shops.
Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur has no shortage of places to stay, from simple guesthouses and budget hostels to modern hotels and luxury towers. Whether you want to be close to street food, shopping, nightlife, or KL’s main sights, you’ll find something that fits your style and budget.
If you’re not sure which part of the city to base yourself in, take a look at my guide ‘Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur‘. It breaks down the best areas for visitors to stay in and the type of experience each one offers.
BOOK KUALA LUMPUR ACCOMMODATION HERE
We’ve also included a handy map below to help you compare accommodation options across Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur is one of those cities that reveals more the longer you stay. From hidden temples and speakeasies to parks, street food and neighbourhoods with their own character, there’s always something new to discover.
Whether you’re passing through on a stopover or planning a longer visit, I hope this list helps you make the most of your time in the city.
What are you most looking forward to doing in Kuala Lumpur? Or if you’ve been, have we missed anything we should check out on our next trip?
Planning Your Trip to Kuala Lumpur?
Planning your trip to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia? Here are some of our recommended useful resources to help you have the best time possible.
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