13 Amazing Places to visit in KL (Kuala Lumpur)

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Well travel fans, another day, another city. And this time, we’re exploring the wonderfully exciting world of Kuala Lumpur, in this epic post about 13 of the most interesting places to visit in KL (aka Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia).

But why travel to KL anyway? I mean you could easily create a two weeks Malaysia itinerary that takes you elsewhere. 

 

Umm, cause it’s all that AND a bag of chips. As is somewhat nearby Penang. Which is why you should also plan an amazing Penang itinerary. Heck, the Malaysian islands are pretty rad too, which is why you NEED this guide to Pulau Ubin. But I digress.

 

Because truth be told, that description wasn’t really all that helpful. 

 

See:

 

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrantly, modern city that has an iconic skyline filled with minarets, Mogul-style domes, and skyscrapers galore.

Take some time to walk through the city, especially if you’re planning 2 days in Kuala Lumpur, and you’ll be delighted by a plethora of food-stall-lined streets that are shaded over by leafy canopies of banyan trees.

 

Plus:

 

KL is basically just a hop, skip, and jump away from Singapore and therefore, the perfect addition to any Singapore itinerary or to any two week Malaysia itinerary that you’re planning. 

 

So:

 

If you ever find yourself impulsively booking a ticket to KL during some epic airfare-related flash sale, then this is the post for you (Because yes, I am indeed totally financially irresponsible like that). 

 

And no:

 

It’s not actually Micronesia, as Zoolander fondly refers to it.

 

So:

 

If you’re looking to plan one epic, Kuala Lumpur itinerary, then keep reading because I’m about to reveal some epic, totally secret tips and tricks about some of the most interesting places in KL.

 

Who knows:

 

There may even be a box of FREE cookies waiting for you at the end of this post.

 

Kidding. 

 

Sadly, I am not a Keebler Elf and am incapable of making it rain cookies.

 

Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high chance that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

 

***Not sure where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? I stayed at the  Mecure Kuala Lumpur and while I found it to be an amazingly luxurious hotel, with rooms that start at just $40 per night, I also thought the location wasn’t all that convenient. Therefore, I’d recommend staying at the Mandarin Oriental instead. Not only is this hotel located right across the street from the Petronas Towers, but rooms here are super luxe and start at just $160 per night (thanks KL for always being so damn affordable). However, if you’re looking to stay somewhere a bit more budget-friendly, then try Alila Bangsar. Rooms here are just $70 per night and include fresh white, teak wood interiors, an excellent on-site restaurant, and an exquisite, rooftop swimming pool. And if you’re looking for another really great place to stay while in KL, you can always check out some of these amazing AirBnbs in Kuala Lumpur.***

 

1. Islamic Arts Museum

 

 

If you want to better understand one of Malaysia’s most predominant religions, Islam, then the Islamic Arts Museum is definitely one of the best places to go in KL.

 

Nestled along the perimeter of Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park:

 

This iconic museum will without a doubt, leave you in a total state of awe.

 

Why?

 

Well, this museum is filled with twelve incredible galleries that feature more than 7000 artifacts from throughout the Islamic world.

 

That’s why:

 

This place is considered one of the largest Islamic museums in all of Southeast Asia.

 

So:

 

While you’re here, be sure to stop by the architecture gallery, the ancient Malay world gallery, a historic, a fully reconstructed Ottoman Syrian room, and the Quran and manuscripts gallery.

 

I promise:

 

You’ll definitely leave you with a breadth of knowledge that you didn’t have before. 

 

Seriously:

 

This place will make you consider the importance of art and history, and all while walking through a sea of breathtakingly beautiful artifacts and vibrant, interior decor.

 

So: 

 

If you’re interested in learning more about Islamic culture in Southeast Asia, then do not miss this museum! 

 

Also:

 

Try not to rush through the wealth of galleries here. Instead, give yourself ample time to take in the significance of the beauty all around you.

 

And before you leave:

 

Do not miss the gift shop since even locals think it is one of the best gift shops in all of Malaysia.

 

Sure:

 

It may be a bit pricey but whatever. You’re on vacation and need a little retail therapy since real-life can be uber-stressful.

 

Address: Jalan Lembah Perdana, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: KL Sentral

 

2. Petronas Towers

 

 

Okay, guys:

 

I’m just gonna come right out and say it because I know what you’re all thinking, and no, the name of this skyscraper has nothing to do with Harry Potter.

 

I know, total bummer. But:

 

The Petronas Twin Towers are still a pretty cool tourist attraction in KL, even if they have no relation to Harry Potter whatsoever. 

 

Plus:

 

You’ve probably seen these immortal structures plastered all over your Instagram feed.

 

You know:

 

They’re the insanely tall set of twin skyscrapers that are interconnected by a single bridge between the two buildings.

 

And, fun little factoid for you:

 

These two towers were actually the tallest buildings in the world between 1998  and 2004 until they were unceremoniously replaced by Taipei 101.

 

Womp, womp, womp,

 

But, whatever. It’s all good.

 

I mean sure:

 

These buildings may not be the “tallest buildings in the world”, but they’re still worth a visit for the stunning, panoramic views at the top and to see the structure’s unique, architectural style.

 

Don’t get too excited though.

 

Because these buildings are primarily used as offices for large companies like Huawei Technologies and Al Jazeera English.

 

I also hate to be a total Debbie Downer, but:

 

You definitely won’t get to ascend to the very top of the towers since only the bridge between the two buildings is open to the public.

 

But, I pinkie promise:

 

There are still plenty of cool things for you to see and do here, like explore the Skybridge, takes photos from the Observation Deck, or buy lots of overpriced, totally tacky goodies at the gift shop.

 

Also:

 

Do NOT make the same mistake I did and be prepared to book your tickets WELL in advance!

 

See:

 

I tried to reserve my ticket about two days before I wanted to visit and yeah, that was one travel fail of epic proportions. Because not surprisingly, tickets were sold out for a solid, two weeks.

 

So, moral of the story?

 

If visiting the Petronas Towers is something that is super important to you, then be sure to pre-book your tickets from their website, about a month in advance.

 

Oh, and one more little FYI for you:

 

The towers are closed every Monday and on most public holidays, like Hari Raya, Aidilfitri, and Aidiladha. So yeah, don’t stop by then.

 

Also:

 

Try to time your visit to the Skybridge and Observation Deck around dusk, when all of the lights in the city come to life and vibrantly twinkle in the night sky.

 

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur

 

Nearest MRT Station: Kampung Baru

 

3. Chinatown

 

Before you say “oh no, not another Chinatown”, hear me out. 

 

Because:

 

If you read my blog even a little bit or follow me on Instagram, then you know that I’m obsessed with bright, shiny, and oh-so-colorful places. 

 

Kind of like Dori from Finding Nemo.

 

But, this is also one of the many reasons why I LOVED meandering through the vivacious streets of Chinatown.

 

I mean, not surprisingly:

 

This neighborhood is one of the liveliest and most colorful (literally and figuratively) places to go in KL.

 

And:

 

If you’re looking for some seriously delicious street food, at ridiculously cheap prices, then this is without a doubt, the place to be.

 

First of all:

 

Be sure to check out Petaling street, where you’ll come face to face with rows upon rows of vendors selling everything from hats to clothes to cell phone cases.

 

You name it, and I can almost guarantee they’ll have it. 

 

Within reason. Sorry, but you’ll have to buy that ukulele elsewhere.

 

What, shopping and picking up random trinkets isn’t your jam?

 

I get it. You’re preaching to the choir over here. I for one am not a huge fan of shopping.

 

But, I promise:

 

Petaling street is still a great place to explore and experience the mildly controlled chaos of Chinatown for yourself.

 

As for the street food that I mentioned earlier:

 

You’ll find tons of stalls along Petaling street selling dumplings, steamed buns, coconut pancakes, stir-fries, fresh fruit, and more.

 

Seriously:

 

it’s a lot to take in but you’ll be glad that you did.

 

Now, for some non-food-related fun:

 

You can always visit one of the many different temples that are found throughout KL’s Chinatown, like the Chan See Shu Yuen temple (one of the largest and oldest Buddhist temples in all of Malaysia), the Guan Di Temple, or the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur).

 

Needless to say:

 

There really is no shortage of sights, smells, and things to do within KL’s Chinatown.

 

That’s why:

 

I suggest visiting earlier in the day, especially if you’re hoping to visit some of the neighborhood’s many temples.

 

This way:

 

You can spend the later part of the day stuffing yourself silly with pure, unadulterated, street food goodness.

 

Address: To start you off, head to Petaling Street at Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

 

Nearest MRT Station: MRT Pasar Seni

 

4. Central Market

 

 

Technically speaking:

 

Central Market is actually a part of KL’s Chinatown neighborhood.

 

Only further proving my point that yes, there really are a ton of things to do in Chinatown.

 

Added bonus?

 

This historic shopping center is now a designated cultural heritage site; a classification that is reflected in the building’s cute, light blue, art deco style exterior.

 

No joke:

 

This place is so cute that it looks like something straight out of a Wes Anderson movie. 

 

So, get those cameras ready, you Instagram mongers you.

 

Now, continue on through the main entrance and into the building itself, where you’ll be surrounded by a wide variety of boutique shops (don’t forget to haggle like a champ) and delectable, local eateries.

 

Now:

 

If you’re not in a shopping kind of mood, you can always visit Malaysia’s version of Starbucks, aka Old Town White Coffee.

 

Just kidding.

 

It really is nothing like Starbucks, except for the fact that it happens to be Malaysia’s most popular coffee shop chain.

 

And the biggest difference of all? 

 

The price, since the coffee here, costs just $1.50 a cup. I know, talk about amazeballs.

 

It’s also totally delicious and sweet, so no added sugar necessary.

 

That’s why:

 

If you’re an over-caffeinated, coffee addict like me, then you MUST visit Old Town White Coffee at least once during your trip to Malaysia (PSST: The food menu is pretty good here too. I LOVED their vegetarian curry).

 

What, looking for something a bit more substantial than coffee? 

 

If you are, then head up to the food court on the top floor.

 

Once here:

 

You’ll have more than 15 food stalls to choose from, all of which serve delicious, home-cooked meals that cost no more than $2.

 

Crazy right? But obviously in the best possible way. 

 

Honestly:

 

The hardest part of all will be deciding where to eat since all of the food here looks, and smells, so damn tasty.

 

But:

 

You can never go wrong with classic, Malaysian dishes like Nasi Lemak (a fragrant, Malay rice dish that is cooked in coconut milk and with pandan leaves), Mi Goreng (a spicy, fried noodle dish), and Laksa (a spicy, noodle soup). 

 

Nom, nom, nom.

 

Address: Jalan Hang Kasturi, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: Pasar Seni

 

5. Lake Gardens – Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park

 

 

This lush, oasis of greenery is home to some of the most epically fun things to do in KL.

 

No, really!

 

I mean, in this park alone, you can find several different wildlife sanctuaries, including the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park, Deer Park, and the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.

 

Sweet right?  

 

And if you’re a crazy plant lady in training, you can even stop by the park’s very own, Botanic Gardens, which are home to the exquisitely beautiful, Hibiscus and Orchid Gardens.

 

Heck:

 

You can even find a ton of super unique plant species here, like the Cannonball tree and the Baobab tree.

 

So, botanists of the world? Yeah, feel free to rejoice.

 

And while this sprawling epicenter of greenery is free to enter, many of the park’s main attractions are not!

 

Therefore:

 

Be prepared to spend some of your hard-earned Benjamins (or dollar bills in my case) if you want to take part in some of the park’s most exciting activities.

 

But wait, there’s more!

 

If you follow the main road through the park, you’ll eventually discover the Tun Abdul Razak Memorial, as well as the former residence of Malaysia’s second Prime Minister.

 

Truth be told:

 

This former home was actually transformed into a nifty, not-so-little museum where you can view a variety of different documents, speeches, books, and awards from the prime minister’s time in office.

 

I mean:

 

There’s even a quirky collection of walking canes and pipes that are on display here, for your total viewing pleasure (Feel free to be SUPER impressed by this exciting news. LOL)

 

Just do yourself a favor:

 

And bathe yourself in TONS of bug spray before you enter the park. 

 

Trust me on this.

 

I got bitten by some random, totally, scary-looking bug while walking through the park and proceeded to convince myself that I was gonna die from Malaria (Can you say overreact much? LOL),

 

Thankfully though:

 

Nothing bad happened since Malaria is extremely rare in mainland Malaysia (thought I’d throw that in there, just in case anyone else was wondering).

 

So yeah:

 

Apply lots of bug spray and be happy because bug bite free really is the way to be!!

 

Address: Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur

 

Nearest MRT Station: KL Sentral

 

6. Thean Hou Temple

 

 

Alright my photography lovin’ friends, this one is for you!

 

So, get those cameras out and enjoy the truly glorious sight that is Thean Hou Temple, with its vibrant colors, dazzling red lanterns, amazing rooftops, and general, overall, ethereal grandeur.

 

Believe it or not:

 

This six-tiered temple is actually one of the largest temples in Southeast Asia and features a variety of enchanting, architectural styles that were taken from traditional Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian buildings.

 

First opened in 1987:

 

This temple is dedicated to the Chinese goddess of the sea, Mazu, and is filled with a dazzling array of red, green, blue and yellow hues, all of which have significant meaning apart from their massive Instagram appeal. 

 

Like the series of red pillars that surround the entrance of the temple. They symbolize the dual awesomeness of prosperity and good fortune.

 

Two things that I am ALL about. Yup, bring on the good fortune please and thank you!

 

Now:

 

If you continue up to the fourth floor of the temple, you’ll find several, incredibly beautiful prayer halls that showcase three separate altars, with statues dedicated to Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, and Shui Wei Sheng Niang, the Goddess of the Waterfront.

 

But: 

 

Like any good tourist attraction in KL, there’s also a souvenir shop and a little food court on-site since, well, temples gotta make money too!

 

However:

 

If you’re looking to escape the perils of modern Capitalist society, then you can always visit the temple’s tranquil Chinese Medicinal Herbs Garden, wishing well, or quaint little tortoise pond (gotta love turtles).

 

And for extra awesomeness:

 

Try visiting during sunset. You’ll be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of colors that accompany your spectacular, panoramic view of the city.

 

Because yeah:

 

This temple of fabulousness has the added benefit of being perched atop a hill. 

 

So:

 

While it might not be so fun to walk up, the views are definitely worth the added perspiration and side of heavy breathing. 

 

Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: Bangsar (This station is pretty far from the temple, so you may want to take a Grab from the station to the temple)

 

7. The National Mosque

 

 

This enormous, totally modern, and boldly designed mosque is definitely one of the best places to go in KL.

 

Why?

 

Well, not only is the main roof shaped like a giant, 16 point star, but the complex itself has a series of tranquil reflecting pools and fountains that offer guests a welcome respite from the frenetic pace of the city outside.

 

Interestingly enough:

 

The National Mosque was actually constructed in 1965, atop a former church that was demolished soon after Malaysia declared independence from the British in 1957.

 

Now:

 

Fast forward a few decades and your only problem will be determining when you can actually visit this modern architectural marvel.

 

See:

 

Visitors are totally welcome to explore the mosque… just not during designated prayer times and on Fridays.

 

That’s why:

 

The mosque’s visiting hours are kind of wonky and between 6:30 am and 1 pm, 2:30 pm and 4 pm, and 5:30 pm and 7 pm. So yeah, be sure to plan accordingly.

 

Now:

 

If you do decide to visit, be sure to dress conservatively so that you can actually go inside.

 

Therefore:

 

Always remove your shoes before you enter. 

 

And ladies?

 

Yeah, you’ll need to rock a headscarf if you wanna step inside.

 

But don’t worry.

 

This mosque has a ton of giant, purple robes that ladies can put on, over their clothes, before they enter the building.

 

PSST:

 

The National Mosque is literally right down the road from the Islamic Arts Museum and the Lake Gardens (Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park). Therefore, if you’re planning a KL itinerary of your very own, I’d suggest visiting the National Mosque first, followed by the Islamic Arts Museum, and the Lake Gardens.

 

Address: Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: Pasar Seni

 

8. Batu Caves

 

 

Ah yes:

 

You’ve probably seen a picture of an influencer or two at this ultra-colorful, set of 272 steps.

 

And while you may be familiar with this place because of its rise to Insta-stardom:

 

What you may not know is that the Batu Caves are actually a series of (DUH) caves and Hindu temples that are built into a limestone hill that sits along the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur (FYI: This place can be hard to reach via public transportation. Therefore, you may want to catch a Grab here or consider taking a tour. I paired my visit with a tour of the Genting Highlands and had a fantastic time. Because this really is one of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur). 

 

Believe it or not:

 

The name actually comes from a nearby river near the hill, known as Sungai Batu, which roughly translates into “stone river”.

 

Also, interestingly enough:

 

These steps were only recently given a facelift of sorts, where they were painted in a  super snazzy swath of vibrant colors. Like August 2018 recent.

 

My guess? 

 

This beautification project is probably a not-so-subtle attempt to lure more Instagram obsessed tourists to this location.

 

And if I’m brutally honest here:

 

I kind of loved it and probably could have spent all day at the bottom of those steps, enjoying that beautiful sea of swoon-worthy colors.

 

However:

 

That might also have something to do with that fact that the prospect of climbing all those steps just wasn’t all that appealing to me.

 

But regardless of my personal feelings:

 

I carried on (and you should too) because what lies at the top of that rainbow-hued, modern marvel is a series of 400 million-year-old caves that are totally worth a visit.

 

So:

 

For all those souls who are brave enough to ascend that seemingly, never-ending staircase, you’ll be handsomely rewarded with a mind-blowing view of hidden, Hindu temples and a glimpse at an almost never-ending labyrinth of caves. 

 

Seriously:

 

it’s enough to make your jaw drop right down to your knees.

 

Of course:

 

My jaw might have already been on the floor since this place is home to the largest statue of Lord Murugan in the ENTIRE world.

 

Which is why:

 

Many of Lord Murugan’s worshippers routinely flock to the caves here, especially during the Thaipusam festival.

 

But all revered, Hindu deities aside:

 

Ladies, please be aware of the fact that there is a dress code here (a memo that I totally missed during my visit. #FAIL).

 

Therefore:

 

Be sure to wear something that covers both your knees and shoulders when you decide to visit this magical place.

 

However:

 

If you do have a momentary brain fart, not to worry because the lovely ladies at the bottom of the staircase will let you borrow a sarong for a nominal fee (thanks capitalism). 

 

PS:

 

There are tons of pigeons and monkeys everywhere. 

 

And while a flock of pigeons is probably no big deal to you since I’m the only weirdo who is terrified of them, keep an eye on those monkeys, and your precious belongings.

 

Yeah:

 

The monkeys here are precocious, to say the very least, and have no problem stealing anything and everything that is left on the floor.

 

I also wouldn’t open any plastic bags around them since these primates of pandemonium immediately see that plastic bag and think, “Yum, dinner”.

 

So:

 

Just keep a firm grip on your belongings, stay away from the monkeys, and all will be right with the world.

 

Address: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: Semantan (If you do decide to use public transportation, be sure to take a Grab from the station to the Batu Caves)

 

9. KL Forest Eco Park

 

 

The KL Forest Eco Park, aka Bukit Nanas, aka Pineapple Hill,  is one of the oldest protected jungles in all of Malaysia.

 

And the main attraction here?

 

Why the epic canopy walk of course. 

 

An invigorating (aka sweat-inducing), 200-meter hike through the forest that leaves you with some incredible, aerial views of the jungle canopy and the city’s surrounding skyscrapers.

 

To enjoy this walk for yourself: 

 

Just take the trail to the left of the Eco Park’s main building and museum. 

 

Trust me:

 

The exhibits inside are pretty lame and definitely not worth your time.

 

However:

 

The trail isn’t that well marked, so if you’re unsure of where to go, just ask a staff member and they’ll be happy to point you in the right direction. 

 

And if you can:

 

Have those cameras at the ready because you’ll definitely want to take a picture from one of the towers along the canopy walk. 

 

Trust me:

 

From here, you’ll be able to get a dynamic, panoramic shot of the aerial trail, the luscious, jungle canopy, and some of KL’s enormous skyscrapers in the distance.

 

Yeah, it’s a pretty impressive sight for sure. And that’s putting it mildly.

 

But:

 

If heights really aren’t your thing, you can always visit the park’s charming herbal garden or hike along one of the area’s many nature trails, all while having your feet firmly planted on the ground. 

 

Now, not surprisingly:

 

Because you’re in a wickedly hot and humid jungle, there are an abundance of bugs everywhere, including mosquitoes.

 

Therefore:

 

Come prepared and pack plenty of insect repellent to protect yourself against these voracious, mosquitos of doom.

 

Also:

 

Try to get to the park as early as possible, like right when the canopy walk opens, at 7:00 am.

 

This way:

 

You can beat both the incessant heat and the crowds here, for tons of amazing photos that are 100%, people free.

 

But the best part?

 

This park is totally free. 

 

HOORAY!

 

Yeah, this is one of those amazing places to go in KL that won’t leave you sobbing in the corner, totally broke like a joke.

 

PS:

 

The canopy walk ends right at the base of Menara Kuala Lumpur. Therefore, you may want to visit this tower after your not-so-arduous trek through the jungle.

 

Address: Lot 240, Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: Masjid Jamek

 

10. Menara Kuala Lumpur

 

 

Also known as the Kuala Lumpur Tower:

 

I personally enjoyed the views from atop this communications tower WAY more than the ones I got from the Petronas Towers.

 

Why?

 

Well, if you’re IN the Petronas Towers, you can’t exactly get an epic shot of them now, can you?

 

Exactly! Glad we agree.

 

And while the wait is long and the ticket is SUPER expensive, I was definitely glad I went and got some panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.

 

While I was here:

 

I also splurged and got the most expensive ticket they had, which includes access to the  Skydeck, a giant box with a glass floor where you can take pictures for exactly one minute (and yes, you are timed).

 

To reserve your spot in line:

 

Just grab a numbered ticket, from the machine that sits to your right, just after you exit the elevator but right before you scan your ticket and enter the observation deck.

 

Truth be told:

 

It’s not really well marked so just ask someone where to get a ticket if you can’t find the machine.

 

But, whatever you do:

 

Be sure to snag a ticket so that you can reserve your place in line for the Sky Deck.

 

Otherwise:

 

You’ll be waiting a really long time in line for absolutely nothing.

 

Honestly though:

 

I didn’t think it was that great. I mean, the line took forever and it took me about five seconds to take pictures that really weren’t THAT much better than the ones I snapped along the Observation Deck.

 

But its totally your call.

 

I would also take a hard pass on the many tourist traps that await you at the bottom of the Communications Tower, like the KL Upside Down House and Blue Coral Aquarium.

 

Trust me:

 

Your money can be way better spent on other, much more fun things to do in KL.

 

Want some added awesomeness?

 

Visit the revolving restaurant at the top of the tower, which gives you awesome AF, panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur and the Petronas Towers (I haven’t reached baller status yet, so I didn’t get to visit. But, if you do stop by the restaurant, definitely let me know what you think).

 

And the rest of the building?

 

Yeah, it’s pretty much just an elevator and set of stairs. So nothing too terribly exciting.

 

But:

 

The Menara Kuala Lumpur does stand at 421 meters tall and is the seventh tallest, free-standing building in the world. 

 

So that’s gotta count for something? Am I right?

 

Address: No. 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest LRT Station: LRT Dang Wangi

 

11. Merdeka Square

 

 

Merdeka Square, or Independence Square in English, is a giant field, with a HUGE, Malaysian flag that sits right in the middle of KL.

 

Often used as a cricket green by locals:

 

This field may not seem like much to an American like me, who really has no idea what cricket is actually all about:

 

But:

 

A visit here is more about what this place represents and less about all the gobs of fun things that there are to do here (trust me, there really isn’t all that much to do).

 

See:

 

This is the exact spot where the Union flag was lowered, at midnight on August 31, 1957, to make way for the Malaysian flag and to establish Malaysia as a totally free and independent country.

 

And while:

 

Trying to visit this historically significant location on August 31st can be a bit tricky (To say the very least since there will be hordes of people here setting the field up for the National Day Parade and various other celebrations), stopping by at basically any other time of the year is a stellar idea.

 

Because, from this spot:

 

You’ll be able to get a wonderful view of some of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic buildings, like Sultan Abdul Samad Building, St. Mary’s Anglican Church, the original Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, and the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery (PSST: Jamek Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in all of Malaysia, is also right down the street. Therefore, you can always stop by and visit while you’re here).

 

So while there aren’t a ton of things to do here per say:

 

This is still a great place to relax and take some pretty incredible photos. 

 

Just do yourself a favor:

 

And try to visit as early in the day as possible since there’s not a ton of shade here and you really don’t want to be melting, in the blazing sun, while frantically fending off gobs of tourists who are savagely wielding their selfie sticks of doom.

 

#justsayin’

 

Address: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 

Nearest LRT Station: Masjid Jamek

 

12. Blue Mosque

 

 

The Blue Mosque, AKA the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque, is the largest mosque in all of Malaysia. 

 

It’s minarets were also once the tallest in the world, but have since been surpassed in height by the ones at Hanssan Il Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco.

 

Now, because:

 

This is a devout, center of worship, dressing conservatively is a must (not surprisingly since this is the case in all mosques). 

 

That’s why:

 

Any and all ladies out there will be given a scarf and  robe to wear during their visit.

 

Once you’re all suited up and ready to go:

 

A volunteer will greet you at the entrance and give you a free tour of the facility, as well as a detailed history of the mosque and information about the basic tenets of the Islamic faith.

 

After your tour:

 

Be sure to snap some photos of this seriously gorgeous mosque, which showcases elements of both Malay and Islamic architectural, along with detailed calligraphy work that was done by an actual Egyptian calligrapher.

 

Pretty neat right? And yes:

 

It really is called the Blue Mosque for a reason. 

 

Because once you’re inside:

 

You’ll find blue, stained glass windows everywhere, an aspect of the mosque’s design that helps reduce the amount of harsh sunlight that enters the building.

 

Added bonus?

 

The main prayer hall is actually spread across two floors, making it one of the largest Islamic prayer spaces in the world.

 

However, aside from beautiful hallways and prayer rooms:

 

There is also a library, reception area, lecture rooms, a gallery, and an assortment of conference rooms.

 

But the best part of all?

 

The Blue Mosque overlooks the exquisite, Garden of Islamic Arts, which was designed to mimic the Quranic Garden of Paradise. 

 

Therefore:

 

Take a leisurely stroll through this garden and you’ll find a variety of different Islamic arts like calligraphy, paintings, sculptures, and, if you’re lucky, a live performance!

 

Just remember:

 

The Blue Mosque is only open Monday through Thursday, between 9 AM and 1:30PM and between 2 PM  and 6 PM; Fridays between 9 AM – 12:30 PM; and Saturdays and Sundays between 2 PM and 6 PM.

 

Address: Persiaran Masjid | Seksyen 5, Shah Alam 40000, Malaysia

 

Nearest MRT Station: Semantan

 

13. La Fleur X Uniqorn

 

 

Okay:

 

I’ll admit it. There are other places to visit in KL that are of waaay more historical and cultural significant than this unicorn cafe.

 

But:

 

La Fleur x Uniqorn is somewhat historic in its own way.

 

No wait, hear me out!

 

See, it’s the very first unicorn cafe in ALL of Malaysia. And since unicorns are kind of my unofficial spirit animal, it was kind of a big deal for me when I FINALLY got to visit.

 

I mean:

 

I’m someone who LOVES insanely, bright colors, all day, everyday, which is why unicorns are totally my jam and why a visit to this pale, pink paradise is a must for any other, unicorn loving travelers out there.

 

So:

 

Grab a seat, order an egg waffle with ice cream, and get an iced drink or two since iced drinks come with their very own, cute little unicorn floatie (Sorry, no unicorn floatie love with hot drinks here). 

 

Yeah:

 

The waffles here are so lovely and colorful that they’re ALMOST too pretty to eat. But somehow, I managed to get the job done.

 

Now, I know you’re thinking and yes:

 

This spot is totally 100% Instagram friendly.

 

Seriously:

 

There’s a ball pit, a unicorn guitar, and unicorn onesies that you can wear over your clothing.

 

Plus:

 

The entire café is painted in the dreamiest shade of pale pink that you ever did see.

 

So:

 

Feel free to ham it up while you gram it up in this thin slice of unicorn paradise.

 

Address: E1-01-02, Sunway GEO Avenue, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47000 Subang Jaya

 

Nearest subway stop: Setia Jaya station (This cafe is pretty far from the center of Kuala Lumpur. Therefore, you may just want to take a Grab here instead).

 

O-M-G! This post about all of the amazing places to visit in KL was a total mouthful. Geez.

 

Yeah, you should feel pretty accomplished that you made it all the way to the end because holy Hannah Batman, this post is LONG, with a capital L!

 

But, at least now you know about all of the super amazing things to do in Kuala Lumpur and you can add them to any upcoming, KL itinerary that you might be planning.

 

So, if you’re ready to visit KL and rock this city like a total boss, then pin this now and read it again later!