Kuala Lumpur or KL as it is more commonly known, is Malaysia’s capital. The world renowned Petronas Twin Towers dominate its skyline at 451m, which was my first sight when travelling with a camera.
KL is vibrant, yet charming and has much to offer visitors from days gone by and the modern era. Its great to visit a city that still wants to hold onto its traditions, yet also move forward.
Shopping ranges from designer and luxury down to many markets stalls, selling everything you could ever need and beyond. Dining, what can I say – some of the best street food I have eaten has been in KL. But there are multitudinous restaurants if street food isn’t your thing.
Getting around is easy. Use the city transport systems, LRT or monorail which are efficient. However, if there are 2 or more of you, grab an Uber, its cheaper and quicker unless the traffic is at a stand still.
My top picks for a few days in KL
Petronas Twin Towers
It would be difficult to miss the Twin Towers! Visit during the day and evening for differing views. There is a fountain show in the KLCC park at 8pm each evening where you can get a view of the towers fully lit. You can visit the skybridge, however, I chose to view the city from the KL Tower.
Perdana Botanical Garden
The most beautiful botanical gardens I have visited. Lots to see here with guided walks available. Give yourself enough time to explore.
Batu Caves
The most important site for Malay Hindus. The caves are set in limestone cliffs and there are 272 steps that lead to the main cave. Lord Murugan, a Hindu god, dominates the entrance at 43m tall. He is the 2nd tallest statue of a Hindu god in the world. Take care during the Thaipusam festival, over 1 million pilgrims visit.
Merdeka Square
Also know as Independence Square, this beautiful colonial district gives you a glimpse into the city’s past. The Sultan Abdul Salad Building dominates the area, but make sure you check out the others, St Mary’s Cathedral, Royal Selangor Club etc. The Central Market is worth checking out, no hard sell in here.
Kuala Lumpur Tower
You will hear this called several different names, Comms Tower, Menara Tower, but in short, you cant miss it! The top of the tower stands at over 335m and 421m to the top of the antenna. The observation deck stands at 276m, 100m higher than the skybridge at the Twin Towers. That is why I chose to go up the tower here plus you can get great shots of the twin towers at the same time. Make sure you visit the open deck and get your photo taken in the glass box!
Kampung Baru
A Malay enclave in the city centre where traditional wooden houses, some with stilts still stand in this settlement. It is one of the most valuable pieces of land in the capital, and estimated to be worth around US$1.5 billion. Village elders continue to turn developers away, as they want to preserve their ethnic Malay lifestyle. Long may it last, but wander around there while you still can.
Sadly, Masjid Jamek, the city’s oldest serving mosque, built in 1909 is under repair. One for my next visit…
Definitely a Nikon shooting city for me with all the amazing landscapes and architecture.
KL food and drink tips in my next blog.
