Introduction
Kuala Lumpur is Southeast Asia’s most underrated capital. The Petronas Towers are genuinely stunning, the food scene is extraordinary (Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisines all at their finest), and the city infrastructure makes it an easy, comfortable visit.
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Top Things to Do
Petronas Twin Towers
The world’s tallest twin towers (until 2004, still impressively tall). The Skybridge connecting the towers at Level 41 is open to visitors, as is the observation deck at Level 86.
Book online: Tickets sell out days ahead. Online booking at petronastwintowers.com.my. RM 85 for Skybridge + Observatory.
Batu Caves
Giant Hindu temple complex inside limestone caves 13km from KL. 272 colorful stairs to the Temple Cave. The gold-painted Lord Murugan statue at the entrance is 42.7 meters tall. Free.
Best time: Arrive before 9am. Thaipusam festival (January–February) brings enormous crowds and spectacular piercing processions.
Chinatown (Petaling Street)
Night market, Red Bar, Chan See Shu Yuen Temple. Excellent cheap food around the Petaling Street area.
Little India (Brickfields)
The Malay capital’s Indian quarter. Flower garlands, spice shops, Sri Kandaswamy Temple, excellent Indian food.
KLCC Park
Free park beneath the Petronas Towers. Fountains, walking paths, children’s playground. Best for evening strolls.
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KL Food Guide
Nasi lemak: Malaysia’s national dish — coconut rice with sambal, anchovy, boiled egg and cucumber. Available everywhere, 24 hours.
Roti canai: Flaky flatbread with curry dipping sauce. Malaysian breakfast staple.
Dim sum: KL’s Chinese-Malaysian dim sum is excellent, particularly in Petaling Street area.
Banana leaf rice: South Indian curry served on a banana leaf. Brickfields has the best.
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Petronas Twin Towers Skybridge tickets sell out — book in advance on Klook. Batu Caves and KL city tours also available.