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Founded only in 1857 as a tin mining outpost, Kuala Lumpur is fairly new as far as Malaysian cities go and lacks the rich history of [wiki=3704e916c1fb1510ec54740192ca43c2]George Town[/wiki] or [wiki=f5aef75f0075ce430fd640e5917ccbd1]Malacca[/wiki]. After rough early years marked by gang fighting, Kuala Lumpur started to prosper and was made capital of the Federated Malay States in 1896. Malaysia's independence was declared in 1957 in front of huge crowds at what was later named Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), and Kuala Lumpur continued as the new nation's capital. The economic boom of the 1990s brought KL the standard trappings of a modern city, bristling with skyscrapers and modern transportation systems.
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Kuala Lumpur is a sprawling city and its residential suburbs seem to go on forever. The city is a Federal Territory has an area of 243 km2 (94 sq mi) which consists of the city center and its surrounding urban areas, managed by the KL City Hall. It also merges with the adjacent satellite cities of [wiki=e3136a045490feeee7fa0e853795faa8]Petaling Jaya[/wiki], [wiki=23a68a291b91640897356f8062ab560e]Subang Jaya[/wiki], [wiki=bf44103ff06dd66f64d2a52e05c0a04a]Shah Alam[/wiki], [wiki=d7e0f4b9f1ddaf3f7ea32df0541b9c40]Klang[/wiki], [wiki=e8fff3d8fbb0df8da68acb0d8e3689d3]Port Klang[/wiki], Ampang, Selayang/Rawang, Kajang, [wiki=9620d0dc5b5870171e57197599d3bb48]Puchong[/wiki], and Sepang, all in the state of Selangor, which enclaves KL, and all with their separate local authorities, creating a huge metropolis called Greater Kuala Lumpur, or more commonly, Klang Valley.
The city can be divided into the following areas, each of which offers a particular attraction or activity.
*[wiki=0787f16b8c0803fe782dc22e2fa07b1b]Old City Centre/Old Town[/wiki] [not to be confused with Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)] - This is the traditional core of Kuala Lumpur where you’ll find the former colonial administrative centre, with the Merdeka Square, Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Selangor Club. This district also includes Kuala Lumpur’s old Chinese commercial centre which everyone refers to now as Chinatown.
*[wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki] - KL's equivalent of the Central Business District (CBD) located to the north-east of the old city centre/old town. This is where you will find many of the city’s shopping malls, five-star hotels and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
*[wiki=c3f6e8b6de7c900e879ebe80eb178d52]Tuanku Abdul Rahman / Chow Kit[/wiki] - This extension of the old city centre/old town is fast regaining its old fame after a decade of slow growth. Located 500 m north of Chinatown and 500 m west to the Petronas Twin Towers, this is the traditional colorful shopping district of Kuala Lumpur north of the city centre that moves into high gear when the festivals of Hari Raya Puasa (Eid ul-Fitr) and Deepavali approach. Located just beside the Golden Triangle (northern neighbour) with many popular budget accommodations. The gigantic Putra World Trade Centre & the traditional Kampung Baru food haven are among the most important landmarks.
*[wiki=e694de13a6aaee4d717d52db2f41fa63]Brickfields[/wiki] - This area, located south of the city centre, is Kuala Lumpur’s Little India filled with saree shops and banana leaf rice restaurants. Kuala Lumpur’s main railway station, KL Sentral, is located here.
*[wiki=16ea9006e944225fe610dc51029bf928]Bangsar and Midvalley[/wiki] - Located south of the city, Bangsar is a popular restaurant and clubbing district while Midvalley, with its Megamall, is one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations.
*[wiki=c8b33d9bb901bc438489e7c4a06c50d9]Damansara and Hartamas[/wiki] - Largely suburban, these two districts to the west of the city house some interesting pockets of restaurants and drinking areas. This district also merges into the northern part of [wiki=e3136a045490feeee7fa0e853795faa8]Petaling Jaya[/wiki].
*[wiki=02167883f0ecc172720369a1569d0473]Ampang[/wiki] - Located east of the city, Ampang is home to Kuala Lumpur’s Little Korea and most foreign embassies.
*[wiki=72ffcf3eda1a509c0a45b5969511353d]Northern suburbs[/wiki] - This huge area to the north of the city is home to several natural wonders attractions, such as the Batu Caves, the National Zoo and the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia.
*[wiki=955f9a3208f60a15144b385323c54909]Southern suburbs[/wiki] - This district may not interest travellers much, although Kuala Lumpur’s National Stadium and National Sports Complex Bukit Jalil and [wiki=917c2107b6dfbeba234e1e8d6c364c9f]Putrajaya[/wiki] are located here.
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Malaysia's transportation systems are, by regional standards, pretty well functioning. Planes, trains, buses, and taxis are linked in a system conceived and constructed by, if not an order-loving architect, at least a dedicated amateur. The planners' aims are an ultra-modern, chic, european-style system that are a far cry from the city's humble beginnings. The reality is a sound B+ with still a long way to go before hitting the top.
A bewildering jumble of initials and acronyms assault any first time journey planner in KL and it will take at least a day to decipher the scheme of things.
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By road
Most important roads in Peninsular Malaysia lead to/from Kuala Lumpur. The city lies about midway along the North-South Expressway (Motorway) (NSE; route numbers E1 and E2) which runs from the Malaysia-Thailand border at Bukit Kayu Hitam, [wiki=d23783452999c81d255ea5913bb6c093]Kedah[/wiki] to [wiki=15f199b289c27b3ec2fd73ddaae460de]Johor Bahru[/wiki] in the south, on the Malaysian side of the Causeway to [wiki=458e4cbc78201c1aec5fc53a31c59378]Singapore[/wiki]. The main expressway exits for Kuala Lumpur on the NSE are Jalan Duta (from the north) and Sungai Besi (from the south).
The Karak Highway (E8), which later turns into the East Coast Expressway, links Kuala Lumpur with the East Coast states of [wiki=dfa96f6c8e8ce38419d3999200b0f05f]Pahang[/wiki], [wiki=f6356f4f1f76dfabae4af78dc78bd47e]Terengganu[/wiki] and [wiki=84c16c87920198b391cf89cd0d7eed41]Kelantan[/wiki].
For those who do not want to pay toll, Kuala Lumpur is on Federal Route One (the "Trunk Road") which, like the NSE, runs through all West Coast states of Peninsular Malaysia from Bukit Kayu Hitam, [wiki=d23783452999c81d255ea5913bb6c093]Kedah[/wiki] to [wiki=15f199b289c27b3ec2fd73ddaae460de]Johor Bahru[/wiki].
Those travelling along the West Coast Road (Federal Route Five) should leave the road at [wiki=d7e0f4b9f1ddaf3f7ea32df0541b9c40]Klang[/wiki] and get to Kuala Lumpur via the Federal Highway.
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By bus
Kuala Lumpur has several bus stations or terminals/terminuses/termini(Malay: stesen bas or hentian) which handle long distance express bus services; many destinations are served by more than one terminal. It is advised to arrive at the bus terminal 15 minutes before the departure time.
Generally speaking, north-bound buses leave from Pudu Sentral and Hentian Putra: south-bound buses leave from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, and east-bound buses leave from Hentian Putra and Pekeliling Bus Terminal. Some bus companies also leave from their own dedicated spots in the city.
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By train
KTM's intercity and international trains arrive at KL Sentral [url=http://www.stesensentral.com]]railway station: a large, modern transport hub located (despite the name) a fair distance to the south of the city centre. There are day and overnight trains to places as far flung as [[Singapore[/url]], [wiki=fa17b0c53057db3ac8a9e18c74192c43]Hat Yai[/wiki] in [wiki=103357e3e40a9c0e4e9d36110f7bbc7a]Thailand[/wiki] and [wiki=eec17f6fcdcc1edcba5c9d7a48e63ad8]Kota Bharu[/wiki] in Malaysia's north-east. Overnight trains are very reasonably priced and have two classes of sleeper accommodation (two-berth compartments and open sections, similar to Thai trains) both of which provide a comfortable night's sleep. Timetables and seat availability information is available [url=http://www.ktmb.com.my]online[/url]. Online booking is available in the same website too. If you would like to check both train and bus timetables and seat availability together, you may check at [url=http://www.busonlineticket.com/]BusOnlineTicket Portal[/url]
The ETS express trains to [wiki=ac99f362be231d9eb9ec51c5dc37b0b4]Ipoh[/wiki] also stop at Kuala Lumpur's architecturally impressive and more convenient old station, Kuala Lumpur Railway Station near Merdaka Square and Pasar Seni LRT station. From 1st July onward, ETS exress trains has extended to Northern Malaysia Padang Besar
Both old and Sentral stations are on the Kelana Jaya LRT line and are served by KTM Komuter trains. KL Sentral is also connected to the KL Monorail. A RM10 taxi coupon should be enough to get to most destinations in the city centre by taxi from KL Sentral. Taxi drivers outside the station are unlikely to be honest. Various services are available at KL Sentral, including showers (RM5 for shower only, RM15 for shower plus towel and toiletries) and baggage check in for certain airlines' customers.
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By boat
Kuala Lumpur is not located by the sea. However, there are ferry connections to/from [wiki=a16772223d0aacd142b9754285d227fc]Sumatra[/wiki] ([wiki=4647d00cf81f8fb0ab80f753320d0fc9]Indonesia[/wiki]) at [wiki=e8fff3d8fbb0df8da68acb0d8e3689d3]Port Klang[/wiki], about 40 km west of Kuala Lumpur. See the [wiki=e8fff3d8fbb0df8da68acb0d8e3689d3]Port Klang[/wiki] article for details on how to get there.
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Kuala Lumpur's ambitious public transport system is sufficiently developed to be fairly efficient and convenient, but much room for improvement lies in its integration.
The city, like many developing cities, suffers from paralysing traffic jams periodically throughout the day. In the rush hours, consider combining various methods of transport. For example: soar over traffic jams by monorail then finish the journey by taxi.
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By train
Urban rail comes in four distinct flavours, which are not always fully connected:
* LRT & Monorail [url=http://www.myrapid.com.my]]- run by RapidKL, which also runs the urban buses, it is the closest thing to a metro though it is mainly elevated on concrete pillars with only the most central stations underground. There are three lines: the Ampang line, the Kelana Jaya line and the Monorail line. At some stations, different lines run on the same platform, which may be a bit confusing. Also LRT map with all lines is very rare at stations so don't forget to print it or save it in your mobile/phone in advance, there are also (almost) no trashbins in LRT system so prepare to carry your trash until leaving system. The Monorail line is entirely elevated and loops through the Golden Triangle in a semicircle. Riding its whole length gives a good overview of the city centre.
* KTM Komuter [url=http://www.ktmb.com.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57%3Aktm-komuter&catid=42%3Asbu&Itemid=55[/url]]- two lines that meet in the city centre and run out to the suburbs, including the [[Kuala_Lumpur/North|Batu Caves[/url]] and [wiki=f67d792a32dff22c96b51bd282639eab]Midvalley Mega Mall[/wiki]. Trains are not as frequent as on the LRT or Monorail: plan for a 20 min wait but 5-10 min is more likely. To get in/out KTM Komuter lines you are supposed to use turnstiles, but during 6/2013 turnstiles were switched off at Kuala Lumpur and Batu Caves stations, so don't bother trying and just pass through.
* ERL - trains run between KL Sentral and KL international airport (KLIA). Express trains run direct RM35 one-way. Transit trains stop at Bandar Tasik Selatan, [wiki=917c2107b6dfbeba234e1e8d6c364c9f]Putrajaya[/wiki] and Salak Tinggi en route. Express trains fare is expensive for between airport and KL Sentral, the cheap, fast and better solution is to buy a Transit trains ticket KLIA-Putrajaya and then Putrajaya-KL Sentral ticket at Putrajaya station. Total fare is RM15.70 instead of paying RM35.00 one-way for Express trains. Journey time is 66 minutes including 30 minutes connection at Putrajaya station.
Fares are cheap (from RM1). If it rains, you might get wet when transferring between lines. From 2012, connectivity between different LRT lines has improved a lot, passengers just need to purchase a single ticket for transferring between LRT and monorail lines or inside LRT system. A notable exception are the KTM Komuter lines, a separate ticket is still required for these lines. For buying LRT tickets you must use vending machine which takes maximum RM5 banknotes, worker in the booth will not sell you ticket, he will only change your banknotes to lower value and you have to use vending machine again, so be prepared with smaller denominations.
The Touch 'n Go [url=http://www.touchngo.com.my]]card (RM10 at major stations) can be used on all lines except the airport express. Photo ID is required to buy the card and it can only be bought on weekdays and part of Saturday. Concession prepaid cards are available but require proof of qualification.
Some notable LRT stations:
]
* Bukit Bintang (Monorail line) - for shopping in the Golden Triangle
* Bukit Nanas (Monorail line) - for clubbing at P. Ramlee, within walking distance of the Twin Towers
* KLCC (Kelana Jaya line) - for the Twin Towers and the Suria KLCC shopping mall
* KL Sentral (Kelana Jaya line/Monorail line/KTM Komuter/ERL) - while not that central, it is a comprehensive hub with connections to buses and intercity trains
* Masjid Jamek (Ampang & Kelana Jaya lines) - LRT interchange and access to Chinatown and Little India
* Plaza Rakyat (Ampang line) - for Puduraya bus station
A few quirks:
# The LRT lines have had various names in the past (Kelana Jaya line fka PUTRA line; Ampang line fka STAR line), don't be surprised to see signage different from the names listed here.
# Monorail line's "KL Sentral" station is not located inside KL Sentral main building but in front of Nu Sentral shopping mall.
# Despite the monorail/LRT integrated ticketing system, you may lose your token at KL Sentral when exiting through the barriers to connect between the two lines, despite the ticket machine having happily sold you a fare for the full journey. The staff will just tell you to buy a new token for the rest of the journey. It's probably best to buy separate tokens for each leg, and may actually be cheaper.
# Trains usually follow a timetable, with the period between trains decreased to two/three minutes at peak hours. However, if the "driverless" trains of the Kelana Jaya line breakdown, services may be disrupted for two hours or more, although such breakdowns are few and far between.
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By bus
Double-decker KL Hop-on Hop-off [url=http://www.myhoponhopoff.com]]sightseeing tour buses serve 42 notable places. There is free Wi-Fi on board. An information commentary is given through headphones. Tickets (valid for 24 or 48hrs) give unlimited use during their validity. Children under 5 ride free.
The buses are scheduled every half hour but waits may be as long as two hours due to traffic jams, so try to maximize use of the service outside rush hours.
The free free bus service Go KL [url=http://www.gokl.com.my/[/url]]started 1 September 2012 in the Central Business District (CBD) with two circular bus routes. The Purple Line starts at Pasar Seni and travels to the shopping area of Bukit Bintang, where it links up with the Green Line looping around KLCC. From 1 May 2014, two more routes have been added. The Red Line connects the North of CBD with the South, linking KL Sentral to Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman through the Chow Kit area. At Medan Mara it meets the Blue Line, which goes on from there to join the per-existing lines at Bukit Bintang. [http://www.spad.gov.my/transport-operators/buses/route-map-gokl-city-bus[/url]
RapidKL [http://www.rapidkl.com.my] operates a cheap and comprehensive public bus network in and around Kuala Lumpur, but low frequencies (2-3 per hour on most routes) and the near-total lack of signs makes this a poor option for the casual visitor. The buses themselves have clear destination information; so if you happen upon one heading in the right direction, jump on board - though be prepared for cramped waits in rush hour traffic. For those (few) attractions best visited by bus, specific bus information is given at each place of interest on this page.
If you do venture on board a RapidKL bus, it's worth nothing that these buses are broadly divided in three categories:
*Bandar (B) routes are city centre shuttles,
*Utama (U) buses travel to outlying suburbs
*Tempatan (T) buses are feeder services for train stations.
For all three RapidKL routes, you can either buy zone-based single tickets (RM1 for Zone 1, up to RM3 for Zone 4) on board, or use a Touch 'n Go card (not sold on board). In addition, Ekspres (E) services use the highways and cost a flat RM3.80. Buses run from 6AM-11PM or so, with no night services.
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By taxi
Normal red and white taxis (RM3 first 1km, then RM1/km) and bright blue executive taxis (RM6 first 1km, then RM2/km) are good options if you can get them to use the meter. There are also various small surcharges for radio call (RM2), baggage (RM1 per piece), etc.
The city's rail coverage is good enough so that you shouldn't take a taxi to most hotels and tourist hotspots. But, if you must take a taxi, expect many drivers to refuse to use the meter, particularly during rush hour or when it rains. Prices then become negotiable (before setting off) and inflated (2-10 times the meter price). Although this is illegal, the only realistic thing you can do is walk away and find a different driver. A cab hailed off the street is more likely to use the meter than one that stalks tourist spots or parked.
If stuck with a driver that won't use the meter, negotiate hard: RM10 should cover most cross town trips of 15 min or so, even with traffic. If staying in an expensive hotel, hide your affluence and give a nearby shopping mall as your destination instead. If you have lots of bags, try not to let him see it during negotiations.
Avoid going to a taxi stand and bringing a sheet of paper with your destination written down with the intention of showing it to the driver; you will have four or five of the drivers congregate and pass around your written address. They are most certainly discussing the best way to charge you an inflated price. Have your destination memorised or, even better, hail a taxi and avoid taxi stands.
Midnight surcharge is applicable on pickups 00:01-05:59. This surcharge means meter prices are increased by 50% (e.g. at 01:00, if the meter shows RM12, you should pay RM12+6).
During rush hour it's generally best to combine public transport with taxis.
A few popular places (notably both airports, KL Sentral, Menara KL and Sunway Pyramid) enforce a prepaid coupon systems, which generally work out more expensive than using the meter, but cheaper than bargaining. Taxis from Pavilion Shopping Mall's taxi counter cost the meter with a RM2 surcharge.
Some taxi drivers will hang around near hotels offering tours similar to those offered by established companies. Some of these drivers are quite knowledgeable and you may end up with a specially tailored, private tour for less than the cost of an official tour. Know the going rates before driving a bargain!
Many locals download taxi apps such as Grabtaxi (which was conceived in Malaysia) and Uber and use that instead of trying to hail a cab. One word of caution is that Malaysian taxi drivers are now hostile towards Uber drivers and its customers within the Kuala Lumpur area. It is a safety concern and shouldn't be taken lightly.
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By car
Kuala Lumpur has good quality roads, but driving in the city can be a difficult due to traffic jams, a complicated web of expressways and road signage in the local language. If driving, be especially aware of sudden lane changes by cars, as well as scooters, which tend to erratically weave in and out of traffic.
Do not park at the road of busy districts such as Bangsar or Bukit Bintang because other cars might lock you in by parking next to you in the 2nd or 3rd lane. Use covered car parks or park a bit off the beaten path, and then walk back.
Renting a car is an option for travelling in Kuala Lumpur and other parts of Malaysia. The road system is quite complicated and road signage is in the local language, so it is highly recommended that all travelers rent GPS units from their car rental company - such units are widely available, and are usually offered at reasonable rates.
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On foot
The old centre of Kuala Lumpur fairly compact and the old buildings in various state of repair are great for exploring on foot. Even plodding between the [wiki=1ceffcbc012ccd3bc0f91b7ebc8ed184]colonial area[/wiki] and the [wiki=8f391e95dd3d55f8ec5e2c3f75963c53]new glass and steel sector[/wiki] (see walking tour below) is enjoyable outside the hottest hours of 11:00-15:00.
Major roads are well lit, making evening strolling undaunting and pleasant. Signs are clear and well placed and pavements are wide and uncluttered, but slippery in the rain. Shady tree-lined walkways provide shade on some of the larger roads. Pedestrian crossings are common and are generally respected by drivers. Jaywalking is technically illegal but overlooked (on-the-spot fine: RM 20/30 for tourists/locals if unlucky).
This circular walking tour (2-3 hrs) starts in Chinatown and loops through the modern Golden Triangle, missing the historic buildings of the old centre:
# Start in Chinatown (Petaling Street)
# Head towards the vertically striped wedge of the Maybank building. Head along Jalan Pudu, passing to the left of Pudu Sentral bus station. After 800 m, turn on to Jalan Bukit Bintang at the Royale Bintang Hotel.
# Jalan Bukit Bintang is a major shopping street: stop for coffee at Bintang Walk, or check out the electronics mega-mall, Plaza Low Yat.
# When Bintang meets Jalan Sultan Ismail and the monorail, turn left, following the monorail.
# After 1km of Sultan Ismail, turn right on to Jalan P. Ramlee. This lead to the Petronas Twin Towers. Be amazed!
# Head back down Jalan P. Ramlee
# Merge onto Jalan Raja Chulan near the KL Tower and head back to the Maybank building and Chinatown.
If you're fortunate enough to do this walk on a typical Sunday afternoon you will find a calm and attractive city.
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Disabled Travellers
Like many cities in SE Asia, KL presents a great challenge for travellers with mobility impairments. Pavements are often in disrepair, curbs are high and curb cuts are often missing or inadequate. Wheelchair users will frequently find their path of travel obstructed (poorly designed or narrow sidewalks, parked cars, motorcycles, fences, stairs, trees, etc), and will rarely be able to travel more than 50 metres without having to backtrack or divert to the road. In many areas of the city, it is virtually impossible to travel without an assistant. Crossing the road or having to wheel on the road (in case the pavement is obstructed) can be very dangerous, as many drivers neither expect nor yield to wheelchair users. You will occasionally find accessibility features like ramps or elevators obstructed or unserviceable. A notable exception are the the KLCC and Bukit Bintang areas, where shopping malls and pedestrian areas are built to modern accessibility standards. Public buildings, hotels and malls provide an adequate supply of handicap toillets. Much of the rail system is inaccessible, most notably the monorail (which is in the process of being fitted with stair lifts, but is currently off limits). Some buses are equipped with ramps, but they are assigned haphazardly and do not run on a fixed schedule. Many locals will not be used to seeing people in wheelchairs, but will be generally helpful.
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As expected of Malaysia's capital, the national language, [wiki=a262b428a9f612e74fe5033d3f1b49f3]Bahasa Malaysia[/wiki], is almost universally spoken and understood. English is widely spoken in major cities and towns in Malaysia.
However, Kuala Lumpur, as Malaysia's main economic centre, is also home to Malaysians of different backgrounds and ethnicities, so unsurprisingly, many other languages are commonly heard as well. The ethnic Chinese form a slight majority in KL (as they do in many of Malaysia's larger cities), and [wiki=0a3f761ba7c50be32bd05b2934f97f03]Cantonese[/wiki] serves as the lingua franca of KL's Chinese community. Other Chinese languages, such as [wiki=a659882137ee68ab1280e0a0d73e1f26]Hokkien[/wiki], Teochew and Hakka are also spoken by smaller numbers, but even native speakers of those languages usually speak Cantonese as well. Ethnic Indians, mostly of [wiki=034fe2269113249d656c500902fa8e18]Tamil[/wiki] descent, are also plentiful, so how about ordering your delicious curry in their language?
In reality, despite (or perhaps because of) an official policy to learn Bahasa Malaysia on almost all levels in the primary & secondary education, many non-Malays aren't appreciative of speaking the language and get along with each other mainly in English, which is great for visitors. English is widely spoken in Kuala Lumpur, and foreigners will generally not have a problem getting by with English though some locals might have trouble understanding you if you speak in a heavy accent. [wiki=56ec9849ff5b9d83053da13b684059cf]Mandarin[/wiki], while no-one's first language, is also widely taught and understood among the Chinese community.
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Kuala Lumpur is short on must-see attractions: beyond the Petronas Twin Towers, the real joy lies in wandering randomly, seeing, shopping and eating your way through it.
KL hosts an amazing variety of architectural delights. The grandest old British colonial buildings lie in the [wiki=1ceffcbc012ccd3bc0f91b7ebc8ed184]city centre[/wiki] and include the former offices of the Colonial Secretariat (now the Sultan Abdul Samad Building) on Merdeka Square and the old Kuala Lumpur Railway station. They blend themes from the architecture of Britain and North Africa. On Merdeka Square's west side, looking like a rejected transplant straight from [wiki=83157bd7683717978f3933163e2cb561]Stratford-upon-Avon[/wiki] is the Royal Selangor Club. Near Merdeka Square is Masjid Jamek, a charming Moorish-style mosque set at a confluence on the Klang River. The National Mosque, Masjid Negara, (1965) celebrates the bold ambitions of the newly independent Malaysia. The National Monument in the pretty Lake Gardens is inspired by the Iwo Jima Memorial in [wiki=c69fb71cb086e4b0287b84777cf1a16f]Arlington[/wiki], [wiki=c8b287075ce4f11c834d2a0ada967ddc]Virginia[/wiki]. The ASEAN sculpture garden is nearby. Also in the lake gardens is Carcosa Seri Negara, the former residence of the British High Commissioner, which now houses an upmarket hotel and colonial-style tea rooms. While some buildings in the high-rise [wiki=8f391e95dd3d55f8ec5e2c3f75963c53]Golden Triangle[/wiki], such as the KL Tower, are uninspired copies of other famous structures, the Petronas Twin Towers are truly marvelous.
Within the [wiki=1ceffcbc012ccd3bc0f91b7ebc8ed184]city centre[/wiki] is also the fascinating narrow streets of Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur's traditional commercial district, with its many Chinese shops and places to eat.
KL is hot, humid and sometimes crowded, so schedule some cooling off in air-conditioned shopping malls or restaurants. You may find that most attractions are only crowded on weekends and holidays and are otherwise deserted on weekdays.
See the respective district pages for more details.
*Brickfield Street near by KL Sentral Station
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KL is mainly known for its eating and shopping, which are adequately covered by the [wiki=ab5dbb8b2b22ab89d74d4a290b12ba0b]#Eat|Eat[/wiki] and [wiki=8fe683e36de79c09f89f56dd002dda0e]#Buy|Buy[/wiki] sections.
Other activities include usual urban sports such as golfing, cycling, running, jogging and horse riding. If you’re into rock climbing, the Batu Caves in the [wiki=72ffcf3eda1a509c0a45b5969511353d]Northern suburbs[/wiki] is popular. However given [wiki=3f0e49c46cbde0c7adf5ea04a97ab261]Malaysia's[/wiki] stunning terrain, you’re better off heading to other places for anything more strenuous or challenging.
Several good theatres and performance halls have emerged as part of Malaysia's drive to encourage greater cultural expression. These include the National Theatre (Istana Budaya) and the KL Performing Arts Centre (KLPac) in the [wiki=72ffcf3eda1a509c0a45b5969511353d]northern[/wiki] part of the city, the KL Philharmonic in the [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Twin Towers[/wiki], and the Actors Studio at Lot 10.
Leading museums in the [wiki=1ceffcbc012ccd3bc0f91b7ebc8ed184]city centre[/wiki] are the National Museum, which covers the region's history, and the well-regarded Islamic Arts Museum, which houses a small but captivating collection. Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery is a modern museum linked to the country's national bank with well-designed galleries on Malaysian economic development, Islamic finance, the history of the central bank, and the national's banks own art collection.
Pampering and spas can be found in several five-star hotels and independent centres in the [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki]. There's also nail parlours and beauty salons, which are generally good value, there's also high-end ones offering similar services for a premium. Reflexology and foot massage places are everywhere, especially in Bukit Bintang in the [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki] and in [wiki=0787f16b8c0803fe782dc22e2fa07b1b]Chinatown[/wiki].
Kuala Lumpur also has several theme parks around the city and in the surrounding cities. The most famous of these parks is Sunway Lagoon situated in the neighbouring city of [wiki=23a68a291b91640897356f8062ab560e]Subang Jaya[/wiki]. The theme park has rides, a huge waterpark, an extreme park for adventure junkies, a scream park for those wanting a good scare, and a petting zoo for children. Sunway Lagoon is a 40 minute drive from central Kuala Lumpur in good traffic.
You can also watch the local football match at the KLFA Stadium in Cheras. Kuala Lumpur FA is a football team based in Kuala Lumpur and currently plays in the top divison of football in Malaysia. the Malaysia Super League. Match schedule and fixture can be seen at the KLFA website.
Skyscraper Gazing - glass and steel abound, but only one (rather a pair) shine. However, the view from the KL Tower is cheaper and better than that from the Twin Towers.
Walking Tours - the municipal council conduct several guided walking tours in the following areasKampong Bharu, around the old colonial centre spread around Merdeka Square, and the third tour is around the Indian area of Brickfields. Dedicated Municipal staff give a locals perspective on each area. Last around 2-2.5 hrs with chances to sample local food on the Kampong Bharu tour, experience the Selangor club at the end of the Merdeka Sq tour.
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Malaysia has an ambitious internationalization strategy when it comes to higher education. There are world class, high ranking universities in Kuala Lumpur and because of the country's colonial past, the educational tradition is modeled on the distinguished Oxbridge framework (Oxford and Cambridge universities in the United Kingdom). Thus, most of the courses in universities in Malaysia are taught in English.
[url=http://www.asiaexchange.org/study-abroad/study-abroad-in-malaysia/]Studying abroad in Kuala Lumpur[/url] has been increasingly popular since the 1990s. Universiti Putra Malaysia is one of the elite institutions in the capital city and caters to international students' needs both academically and in extracurricular activities.
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Nature
While KL is more of a concrete jungle compared to other parts of the country, there are some natural gems that are accessible by public transport.
Among them are:
*FRIM Forest Reserve[url=http://www.nature-escapes-kuala-lumpur.com/FRIM_nature_landscapes.html]:]You can get to FRIM via KTM Komuter. Stop at Kepong or Kepong Sentral and grab a short taxi ride. Entry for RM5.30. The hikes are easy and you can go up a canopy walkway for RM10.60 to get a good view of KL on a clear day. There is a nice tea house in the FRIM compound where you can sample various types of local teas and snacks. Get there early as it is more likely to rain later in the day.
*Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve [url=http://www.nature-escapes-kuala-lumpur.com/bukit-nanas.html[/url]:]Located close to KL Tower, this urban jungle is a good respite from the city heat. The forest provides for an easy trek that you can enjoy on your own; but the many specimens are likely more appreciated through guided tours which are free and can be arranged from KL Tower.
*Nature Escapes Malaysia [http://www.nature-escapes-kuala-lumpur.com/Kuala-Lumpur-map-1.html[/url] is a good website for more details on natural trails located within or a short drive away from KL.
*Great semi-wild habitat for many different species of mostly Asian birds. The Bird Park allows you to approach quite close to the birds which are skittish but not fearful for some very nice photos. A bit pricey, but makes for a nice long day in a mostly shaded area. Feedings and shows throughout the day give something to see at any time, and the 20+ acres provide plenty of area to walk and explore. The photo booth offers a wide array of tamed birds that will happily sit on you and pose for photos for a small price (RM8 per person: your camera, 2 birds; RM25 per print: glossy printout of your group covered in birds). Concession stands are priced fairly and offer drinks, ice cream, etc. Price for locals RM25/12, hidden under "MyKad" label. Price for foreigners:
* Near the KL Convention Centre is the Aquaria KLCC which contains some 5,000 varieties of tropical fish.
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Volunteer
If you are taking an extended trip consider spending a week or more volunteering.
* Volunteer with the street kids of Chow Kit (KL) to "help improve the quality of life for the children of Chow Kit whose parents are usually former and current drug addicts & sex workers in Kuala Lumpur". Chow Kids offers training for volunteers who wish to spend any amount of time interacting and helping these deserving children.
*
SPCA Selangor is an animal welfare organisation dedicated to protecting defenseless animals and to alleviate their suffering. Volunteer to help out at the animal shelter, SPCA's marketing and communication department or SPCA's outreach events.
* Love animals? Volunteer at the National Zoo - Zoo Negara outside the city. Simply fill out the Volunteer Form on the website and show up for a shift at the zoo in a variety of areas. Their volunteer website gives for more information.
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Shopping in Kuala Lumpur is one of travel's greatest pleasures! Kuala Lumpur alone has 66 shopping malls and it is the retail and fashion hub for Malaysia. Goods are available in every price bracket.
Suria KLCC is one of Malaysia's premier shopping destinations due to its location beneath the Petronas Twin Towers.
Kuala Lumpur's premier shopping district, the Bukit Bintang area in the [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki], resembles Tokyo's Ginza, New York's Fifth Avenue and Singapore's Orchard Road and has the highest concentration of shopping outlets in Kuala Lumpur, which cater to varying budgets. Bukit Bintang, which is part of the Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle, spans over 3 roads, namely Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Imbi and Jalan Sultan Ismail. It houses various cafes, alfresco (open air) dining outlets and shopping complexes such as Berjaya Plaza, Berjaya Times Square, Bukit Bintang Plaza, Imbi Plaza, Kuala Lumpur Plaza, Lot 10, Low Yat Plaza, Pavilion KL, Starhill Plaza and Sungei Wang Plaza. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is a recent addition to the cluster of shopping malls in this area and houses a wide range of international retail brands in an ultra-modern complex. Fans of electronic gadgets would delight in the multitude of choices at Low Yat Plaza, whilst shoppers hunting for the latest in affordable Asian style should definitely check out Berjaya Times Square and Bukit Bintang / Sungei Wang Plaza. It is also the location of the largest single department store in Malaysia, SOGO Kuala Lumpur which is located at a landmark site on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, one of the best known shopping streets for locals in Kuala Lumpur.
Several popular malls lie outside the Golden Triangle. The [wiki=16ea9006e944225fe610dc51029bf928]Bangsar and Midvalley[/wiki] areas are home to some of the best shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur, namely the MidValley Megamall and the adjacent upmarket The Gardens, the more cozy Bangsar Village and Bangsar Shopping Centre in Bangsar. The Damansara area north-west of Kuala Lumpur, though not in the city-proper, it is one of the high concentration of shopping outlets in Kuala Lumpur. It houses various shopping malls like The Curve, e@Curve, Ikano Power Centre, IKEA, Cathay Multi Screen Cinemas, Courts Megastore, NiuXehSui Ara Damansara and 1 Utama (one of the top shopping centres in Malaysia).
There are also many shopping malls in the neighbouring cities of [wiki=e3136a045490feeee7fa0e853795faa8]Petaling Jaya[/wiki] and [wiki=23a68a291b91640897356f8062ab560e]Subang Jaya[/wiki]. Malls such as Sunway Pyramid [url=http://sunwaypyramid.com/]]in Petaling Jaya and Empire Subang in Subang Jaya are very nicely designed, and it is worth making the trip down to have a look even if you don't plan to buy anything.
Despite the onslaught of malls, Kuala Lumpur still offers some Asian tradition with traditional shopping streets and markets. The best area for such shopping is Chinatown in the [[Kuala Lumpur/Central|City Centre[/url]]. This district is also the best place to hunt for souvenirs, especially in Central Market, a former produce market which has been converted into an art and craft market. It is also known as Pasar Seni in Malay.
The Little India near Jalan Masjid India offers various fabric for use. Most of the fabrics are imported from countries like Indonesia, India and China while some are locally produced. Indonesian traditional batik and songket are traditional fabric commonly found in Central Market. For greater satisfaction choose the hand made ones. You may be interested to buy ready made baju kurung or baju kebaya (the traditional Malay blouse). For peace of mind, buy from the bigger stores(e.g. Hugoclothier). Some Thai handicrafts are also sold here, alongside handmade Malaysian wooden souvenirs.
Since 2000, the Ministry of Tourism of Malaysia has kick-started the mega sale event for all shopping in Malaysia. The mega sale event is held thrice in a year-in March, May and December-where all shopping malls are encouraged to participate to boost Kuala Lumpur as a leading shopping destination.
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Shopping Malls
Bukit Bintang
*Berjaya Times Square - Its currently the 13th biggest shopping mall in the world boasting 12 levels of retail with a total of 320,000 m² (3,5 million ft²). Although initially aimed at the upper-echelon of society. It is currently positioned as a middle-class shopping mall offering youth fashion targeted at the younger crowds. For entertainment, it has the largest indoor theme park in Malaysia located on the 7th floor of the building. It also offers an exciting cinematic experience with its 3D-Imax theatre located on the top floor of the retail podium.
*Starhill Gallery - Starhill Gallery is probably the ritziest and luxurious mall in the whole of Kuala Lumpur alongside KLCC. A Louis Vuitton flagship outlet flank the exterior facade of this grand structure. Renowned fashion houses whether Gucci, Fendi, Valentino you name it. It can all be found here. There is a Food Galore on the Lower Ground floor which renders an excellent culinary experience in a cosy setting that exudes grandeur.
*Pavillion KL [url=http://www.pavilion-kl.com/]]- Built in late 2007, it is targeted at the middle-upper segment of society. It offers a diverse tenant mix which makes it one of the most successful malls in Kuala Lumpur. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur contains over 450 retail shops that are spread across seven levels. Parkson, Tangs, Golden Screen Cinemas and Harvey Norman are the anchor tenants of this mammoth 7-storey retail podium. There are a number of double-storey flagship stores, of which some are street-front fashion boutiques which constitute the shopping mall, such as Burberry Prosum, Esprit (occupies four floors), Gucci, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Juicy Couture, Prada, Versace and others. There are several fashion and luxury goods boutiques that encompass a large portion of the mall's retail floor area. Labels such as Paul Frank, Juicy Couture, Kiehl's, Thomas Pink, YSL, Jean Paul Gaultier, Zegna, Dianie Von Furstenburg, Bebe and Shanghai Tang opened their first stores in Malaysia within this shopping mall. Several eateries and cafés also exist in the shopping mall like fast food restaurants, coffeehouse chains and a Food Republic food court. Malaysia's previous prime minister Tun Mahathir bin Mohamad opened his very own bakery here located strategically at the entrance.
*Fahrenheit 88 - Renamed and refurbished, now again open for business but as of October 2010 still many unopened stores, previously the deteriorating KL Plaza. Poised to be the new hub for the hip and trendy of Kuala Lumpur, consisting of 300,000 square feet of lettable space spread over 5 levels of zoned shopping space. There are designated zones for Japanese and Korean fashion consisting of an entire floor each. It is widely speculated that Swedish-fashion chain H&M and Japanese Uniql and Muji will make their Malaysian open here late in 2011.
*Lot 10 - When opened in 1991, it was considered the Harrods-equivalent of Malaysia housing designer outlets like Aigner and Versace. Over the span of 2 decades, time has however taken a toll on this unique landmark mall which boasts a green facade. Nowadays it is widely-reckoned as a middle-class retail destination as most outlets have shifted as a result of competition and degradation. In 2009, Nicholai by Nicky Hilton and William Rast by Justin Timberlake opened their flagship stores to cater to the Malaysian market after widespread refurbishment to the mall at a cost of RM20 million. Debenhams also made a comeback in Bukit Bintang by opening a 3 floor departmental store here for the people living here in early 2010. Its roof boasts a Garden in the City concept featuring concept restaurants and trendy bars, designer clubs and a spanking new California Fitness gym designed none-other than Yuhkichi Kawai of Super Potatoes. If food is your thing, this is heaven. A cornucopia of Malaysia's best food is on the lower-ground, its food court Hutong is just awesome.
*Low Yat Plaza - Also another veteran on Bintang Walk it remains the ultimate one-stop centre when shopping for electronic gadgets. The ratio between IT outlets and F&B outlets are 70:30. Do not let its fading white-hues fool you as it has a wide range of electronic goods selling at bargain prices considering the ringgit's sub-par value. Do not always be fooled by the pricing as some unscrupulous sellers may have switched original components of devices with fakes. Verify before purchasing.
*Sungei Wang Plaza - Despite being 30 years old, it remains popular, although visitors more towards the younger crowd. It features trendy fashion at low prices. Shirts/tops ranging from RM15 (US$5) and RM50(US15). The focal point of youthful, to some, outlandish self-expression, this is the place where goths and cross-dressers roam without looking out of place.
=====Jalan Ampang=====
*Suria KLCC [url=http://www.suriaklcc.com.my/[/url]]- Suria KLCC is one of Malaysia's premier shopping destinations due to its location beneath the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. It is on 6 floors, with anchor tenants Isetan, Parkson, Kinokuniya, Tanjong Golden Village, Signatures Food Court, Marks & Spencer, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. Suria is the native Malaysian word for Sunshine. It was opened on August 31, 1999. It houses mostly luxury and fashionable shops, as well as cafes, restaurants, a 12 screen cinema, a concert hall, an art gallery, and a Science Discovery Centre, over 6 floors. It is located directly underneath the Petronas Twin Towers, the ninth tallest building in the world (and the tallest twin towers). It is one of Malaysia's most popular tourist destinations. Suria KLCC is accessible via the KLCC LRT Station.
*The Intermark [url=http://www.theintermark.com/[/url]]- The Intermark is a fairly new integrated development with an upscale retail podium, two office towers (namely Vista Tower and Integra Tower) as well as a Doubletree by Hilton hotel. A covered elevated walkway connects The Intermark with nearby Ampang Park Mall and the Ampang Park LRT Station. Companies such as BNP Paribas, J.P. Morgan and Michael Page International are tenants in office towers at the Intermark. You can also find The Embassy of Czech Republic and the Royal Norwegian Embassy at the Vista Tower here. A food court as well as an international grocer occupies the lowest floor of the retail podium.
*Ampang Park [url=http://www.ampangpark.com.my/[/url]]- Ampang Park is one of Malaysia's first shopping centres and is located located near Suria KLCC, in Kuala Lumpur. The complex is accessible with the Kelana Jaya Line via the Ampang Park station, which is one stop after the KLCC Station. The train station is located below the shopping complex (an entrance to the station is located at the entrance of the Mall). Ampang Park is on the northern outskirts of the Golden Triangle and has clothes and jewellery shops, and money changers. It is also known as the place to go for top to toe Malay fashion and is usually packed during Hari Raya. It also houses shops dealing in electrical and electronic equipment. A food court offering many different varieties of cuisines is also found here.
*Great Eastern Mall - Great Eastern Mall is located at Jalan Ampang which adjoined with the Menara Great Eastern. Great Eastern Mall Amidst the embassy community, Great Eastern Mall is primed to be the favourite neighbourhood mall that offers a 'fine lifestyle and relaxation' shopping experience. Alexis, the popular eatery cum jazz bar also has an outlet here.
*Avenue K [url=http://www.timeoutkl.com/shopping/venues/Avenue-K[/url]]- Avenue K is on Jalan Ampang, opposite Kuala Lumpur City Centre. With its bold tagline, "style has a new address", the complex is a hip shopping haven complimented by a classy, city-living address, "K Residence". Avenue K aims to create a "shopping culture, where lifestyle, aesthetic and social elements converge." It boasts internationally acclaimed fashion brands. Long suffering from below average occupancy, Avenue K has completed a facelift in October 2013. Avenue K is accessible from the KLCC Station in the Kelana Jaya LRT Line.
*Cuppa Coffee Boutique [http://www.cuppa.com.my[/url] - Cuppa is located at 225 Jalan Jalan Ampang (sharing the same parking facility as D'Villa Residence), next to the Chinese Embassy and opposite the Thai Embassy. It offers a unique shopping experience with wide variety of coffee products. As Cuppa carries some hard to find coffee items, it is a favorite option for the local coffee lovers in need of coffee accessories and machines, most of which are also available online.
=====Bangsar=====
* Bangsar Shopping Centre, Jalan Maarof - Better known as BSC, this high end shopping centre is a favourite among expats and the locals staying around the Bangsar & Damansara Heights neighbourhood. Plenty of cafes & restaurants - a good spot to meet up with friends. BSC also features speciality stores plus the Cold Storage Supermarket. Visit Burlington Tailor shop in BSC.
* Bangsar Village, Jalan Ara - This is another favourite with those staying around Bangsar & Damansara Heights neighbourhood. Bangsar Village 2 is linked to the original Bangsar Village by a covered pedestrian bridge.
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K.L. is a good place for an introduction to Malaysian food as most people speak English and can explain to you what's in the dish. Most restaurants close by 10PM, but in the city centre there's always a few 24hr kedai mamak (curry houses) or fast food places if you get stuck.
Delicious food can be very cheap too: just head to the ubiquitous roadside stalls or kedai kopi (literally coffee shop, but these are all about the food). These shops operate like a food court with many stalls selling a variety of food. Some coffee shops have tables and chairs by the roadside. Chinatown (especially Jalan Sultan, Jalan Hang Lekir and Jalan Petaling) in the [wiki=0787f16b8c0803fe782dc22e2fa07b1b]city centre[/wiki] and Jalan Alor in the [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki] have some of the greatest concentrations of coffeeshops and stalls. They mostly open only at night.
Also extremely common are kedai mamak (curry houses). One famous collection of streetside Mamak stalls is at Jalan Doraisamy near the Heritage Row ([wiki=c3f6e8b6de7c900e879ebe80eb178d52]Tuanku Abdul Rahman[/wiki]). Along with full-blown curries, these places also serve roti canai (generally RM1 each), a filling snack that is almost half chapati, half pancake but certainly wholly delicious. It is served with dhal and curry sauce.
Shopping malls' food courts provide cheap Malaysian food in more hygienic conditions, although the prices will be a little higher. Lot 10 shopping mall in the Golden Triangle has a collection of 20 street vendors who were invited to relocate in the food court. While there are some international choices, the specialty here is Chinese.
The [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki], [wiki=16ea9006e944225fe610dc51029bf928]Bangsar and Midvalley[/wiki], [wiki=c3f6e8b6de7c900e879ebe80eb178d52]Heritage Row[/wiki] and some areas in [wiki=c8b33d9bb901bc438489e7c4a06c50d9]Damansara and Hartamas[/wiki] are the usual places for people looking to dine out with a bit of flare.
For something a little more authentic, [url=http://www.bonappetour.com]BonAppetour[/url] offers the chance to dine with local hosts in Kuala Lumpur. Prices are mid-ranged, but the emphasis on the authentic home-cooked food, as well as the opportunity to dine with locals themselves.
Ethnic generalizations: Malay food can be found in Jalan Masjid India and Kampung Baru in the [wiki=c3f6e8b6de7c900e879ebe80eb178d52]Tuanku Abdul Rahman[/wiki] district. [wiki=0787f16b8c0803fe782dc22e2fa07b1b]Chinatown[/wiki] is the best place for Chinese (especially Cantonese) food, although all kinds of Chinese cuisine, from the simplest to the most sophisticated, can be found all over Kuala Lumpur. Head to Lebuh Ampang in the [wiki=0787f16b8c0803fe782dc22e2fa07b1b]city centre[/wiki] and [wiki=e694de13a6aaee4d717d52db2f41fa63]Brickfields[/wiki] for Indian food. [wiki=16ea9006e944225fe610dc51029bf928]Bangsar[/wiki] has many high-end restaurants offering Western food. If you are dying for Korean food, head to [wiki=02167883f0ecc172720369a1569d0473]Ampang Jaya[/wiki]. A lot of Arab and Middle Eastern restaurants have mushroomed in [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Bukit Bintang[/wiki], [wiki=8542e4b572a6e143951aae3d841eb285]Cyberjaya[/wiki] and [wiki=fae0159945b539e2e55959c9874281af]Damai[/wiki].
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Kuala Lumpur has quite a vibrant night-life and the [wiki=373e8d9ecb708f9c957a10255c734517]Golden Triangle[/wiki] is the epicentre of most of the partying which goes on in the city. Jalan P. Ramlee, just south of KLCC, is Kuala Lumpur's central clubbing area, while the action also spills onto Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. Nearby Bukit Bintang also throbs with action, and its neon-lit nightclubs, many of them with hostesses, certainly have a more Asian feel to them.
Changkat, in the [wiki=c3f6e8b6de7c900e879ebe80eb178d52]Tuanku Abdul Rahman[/wiki] district, is arguably the most popular nightspot in Kuala Lumpur. The entire Changkat area, focused around Changkat Bukit Bintang, is a vibrant place and has over 40 eating and drinking venues. It is on Changkat Bukit Bintang just off Bukit Bintang. For the budgetary person, almost every bar has a happy hour, usually from 5-9pm. During Wednesdays they have "Ladies Night" at many venues and ladies will often drink for free for a limited time. On weekends the prices are a bit steeper, but cheaper options are still available. Every Thursday and Saturday there is a pubcrawl[url=https://www.facebook.com/kualalumpurpubcrawl]]in Changkat, which is a good way to save money and meet other travelers, locals and expats.
[[Kuala Lumpur/Bangsar and Midvalley|Bangsar[/url]] has long been one of the busiest places in Kuala Lumpur after the sun goes down. The action is around Jalan Telawi and its side streets, and is definitely the place to go for clubbing and deafening music.
Sri Hartamas and Mont Kiara in the [wiki=c8b33d9bb901bc438489e7c4a06c50d9]Damansara and Hartamas[/wiki] district have popular pubs and some clubs as well as nice coffee places. You may be able to find live performances in some of the outlets.
After a tiring night out, Malaysians like to head to Mamak stalls - street side stalls or shops operated by Indian Muslims - which offer a range of non-alcoholic beverages like teh tarik (frothed tea) and light food. In fact, these stalls have also become night hangouts in their own right, and many outlets have installed wide-screen projectors and TV where they screen football matches. Most outlets are open 24 hours. They are found all over the city and are a wonderful part of the Malaysian night scene.
Another trend that has hit Malaysia is the kopitiam fad, a more upmarket version of the traditional Chinese coffee shop. These mostly open during the day and offer some of the best tea and coffee and light meals and snacks like nasi lemak (coconut flavoured rice with fried anchovies and peanut) and the ever popular toast with kaya (coconut curd, used as a spread). If you prefer Western style coffee, there are many coffee outlets in Kuala Lumpur: most of them are part of international and local chains like Starbucks, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and San Francisco Coffee. Most of them can be found in shopping malls. A wave of hipster cafes are recently mushrooming in the nation, offering many opportunities for visitors to sample freshly brewed coffee at independent coffee houses.
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Budget accommodation can be found everywhere; dormitory beds can cost as little as MYR12 per night, though MYR20 and higher is common. Find the cheap ones online if cost is an issue. Increasingly, newer & better ones are opening in the Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman/Chow Kit and Jalan Ipoh areas, the so-called growth areas in the city centre. An example is the Tune Hotel - Downtown KL on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (Chow Kit area). If you are willing to take the 10 minute LRT to the main attractions, then hotels can be found for as little as USD16 per night with free Wi-Fi, air-con, and breakfast often included.
If you are arriving on the overnight buses (arriving at 04:00) from the east coast islands, buses will stop at Hentian Putra in the Chow Kit area.
Mid-range hotels are comparatively poor value in Kuala Lumpur, and it is worth it to spend a little extra (or look a little harder) for a true luxury hotel on the cheap. Kuala Lumpur is similar in price to Bangkok for 5 star luxury hotels, with rooms available for as little as MYR400 or even less (internet rate for single occupancy in the luxury 5 star "Traders Hotel" is around USD100. Other luxury hotels include The Hilton, Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur, Shangrila and JW Marriot. Prices will vary seasonally.
Please see the individual Kuala Lumpur district pages for a list of places to stay.
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Internet cafés are quite plentiful in Kuala Lumpur and you can find them in most shopping centres. If you have your own laptop, Maxis' [url=http://www.maxis.com.my/business/LMC/data/wlan/wlan_main.asp]]WLAN service is the best deal around, a prepaid RM15 card gets you unlimited use for 2 weeks. Many hotels provide free internet access and connections. Free Wi-Fi is also available in many cafes, restaurants and shopping centres. A few examples:
* Malaysia Tourism Centre (MTC), 109 Jalan Ampang (between KLCC and Dang Wangi), [http://www.mtc.gov.my[/url]. Formerly MATIC, this tourist information centre has a wealth of information on Malaysia, occasional cultural shows, surly staff and semi-crippled but free PCs for browsing the Net.
* Most eateries in Malaysia offer free Wi-Fi. The password can be requested from restaurant staff or waiters. It is common courtesy to patronize the eatery whom WiFi access you intend to utilize.
* Air Asia Counter in KL Sentral Several computers with internet access are available for you to check out the Air Asia website (and maybe glance at your e-mail or the news quickly)
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Kuala Lumpur is ostensibly a liberal city and wearing revealing clothes will rarely cause major problems. However, avoiding overly revealing clothes goes a long way towards blending in.
Many mosques and temples require covering up, and you will get more respect from officialdom if you dress up a little. Many places of worship including all mosques will require you to take your shoes off before entering.
If you can speak just a few words of the four main local languages, namely Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese (especially Cantonese), Tamil and English, it will ingratiate you a lot with the locals.
Also, while you may drink in pubs, restaurants and bars, public drunkenness is not tolerated. You will be more vulnerable to getting robbed or will find yourself in the back seat of a police car.
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Tap water in Kuala Lumpur is heavily chlorinated and thus safe, but unfortunately the pipes that carry it may not be. Most locals boil or filter it before use; alternatively, bottled water is cheap and ubiquitous.
There is no malaria in the city, but dengue fever can be a problem at times, so take precautions against [wiki=09b474053d7c5aa0a55e2c41bc61cc29]mosquitoes[/wiki].
Between May and October, Kuala Lumpur is occasionally shrouded in dense haze from forest fires in [wiki=a16772223d0aacd142b9754285d227fc]Sumatra[/wiki] and [wiki=2d0a4dac8f7cf3fed2d94cc4f53d999a]Borneo[/wiki], which can be a health concern for asthmatics and pretty unpleasant for everybody. However, the haze comes and goes, and varies greatly from year to year: it was terrible in 2006, but non-existent in 2007, and had started again in 2008 and very clean after 2009 onward. However, in June 2013 the smog was so severe that a state of emergency was declared.
You can find specialist private doctors and clinics in Kuala Lumpur via MYDOC.my [https://www.mydoc.my/clinics/all-medical-specialties/kuala-lumpur], MYDOC.my is a local and location based health care directory providing patients/consumers with the information that are required for them to make informed decisions on choosing their medical/healthcare service provider in Malaysia. Such information may include the doctor’s experience, ex-patients’ satisfaction, quality of the clinic and/or its facilities etc. But if you are in an emergency, please dial 999, the national emergency contact number.
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Crime is not rampant in Kuala Lumpur. The perception of crime is high, but in recent years the Malaysian police have managed to reduce crime significantly in and around urban Kuala Lumpur. Reports of violent crime against foreigners are uncommon but instances of pick pocketing and bag snatching have risen in recent years. Police presence, particularly around tourist areas and at night has increased in recent years. Kuala Lumpur is generally safe for travellers (it is locals who are often the targets of crime).
- Confidence Tricks
:- Scratch and Win Scams are rampant in all over Malaysia. Victims are given reward tickets to scratch/tear/peel off on spot to see if they win prizes. In these cases, victims would be informed that they had won prizes in foreign lottery or lucky draws. The scammers would ask victims to make advance payment if they wanted to claim their prizes. They would even offer victims car rides to withdraw the large sums of money, reported a local news source. After which, victims would realise that the prizes never existed or were of lower value than previously promised.
:- Poker Scams involving friendly locals. They normally target lone tourists in popular tourist places. It starts with a friendly approach and an invitation to their home to chat and learn about your country. Then comes poker, accumulated losses and the loss of your cash and jewellery. Such scams can also happen through couchsurfing.
:- Bogus Cops, usually Middle-Easterners. You will be stopped by "plain-clothed police officers" on the pretext of checking your travel documents. You will be brought to a secluded area in the process and made to handover your wallet. Should you be stopped, you have the right to insist that you be taken to the nearest police station before saying/showing anything. While undercover policemen generally patrol the city center, they are mainly serving the vice department. A genuine police officer will be able to produce his or her police I.D. card, which is a combination of white and dark blue in color.
- Taxis
:- Refusing to use meters. Taxis are generally safe, but they often refuse to use the meter and a few cabbies will gouge tourists mercilessly. If they refuse to use the meter, then take another taxi, as by law they are required to use the meter. However, if you are desperate to use that taxi, always agree on the fare in advance, and try to get an estimate of the cost from a local before you climb on board. Many also pretend to not know your hotel and will bring you to their preferred hotels by saying that your hotel is in a bad area, closed or far. A good idea would be to buy a public transport map and get well acquainted with the locations of stations, train times, etc. If you can use a train or bus to get to a place, it would be cheaper and safer to do so.
Most locals download the MyTeksi/GrabTaxi app on their smartphones to hail cabs. It is convenient and you will have the driver's name, contact details and numberplate available to you. An estimated fare will also be displayed on the app, and drivers rarely attempt to solicit more from passengers. Other taxi applications i.e. Uber, EzCab are also available.
:- Airport Taxis. At the Airport, unscrupulous taxi drivers pretending to be customer service staff may try to steer tourists to much more expensive mini-buses or taxis and try to charge RM90 for them. It is recommended to purchase taxi coupons at the airport arrival halls.
- Counterfeit Currency
: Counterfeit banknotes (such as RM50) may be given as change by a dishonest taxi-driver: the easiest way to tell being to hold it up to the light to see the continuous silver strip. If in doubt, avoid and refuse larger notes.
- Street Safety
:- Walking in the city is usually fine but, as anywhere, caution must be exercised, especially if alone. Snatch thieves can be rather ruthless: women have been injured by purse-grabbers on motorcycles. If this happens to you, let go of the bag rather than be dragged several metres and risk injury. Hold your bag away from the street side and try not to appear flashy if possible. Be wary in alleyways or parking grounds that appear dark and deserted, petty thieves with knives or firearms might mug you.
:- During the rains, pavements and streets become small rivers and crossing a street can be an adventure. Pavements become as slippery as ice so wear proper footwear.
- Local Laws
:- Public drunkeness is illegal in Malaysia.
:- Carry Your Passport. Malaysian law requires that visitors carry their passport at all times, and both police and "RELA" (civil volunteers) carry out spot checks for illegal immigrants.
Locals are very friendly to the tourists, and many in Kuala Lumpur can speak decent English. Communication with the locals is almost as easy as it is in [wiki=458e4cbc78201c1aec5fc53a31c59378]Singapore[/wiki] and significantly better than in [wiki=3d147c6ba113929f5a004a5e9dcc832e]Bangkok[/wiki] or many other Asian countries. Greet people with a warm smile and they will be happy to show you around. Be friendly: if you are lost, just ask anyone smartly dressed on the street.
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Embassies and High Commissions
[wiki_table=80112bb0]
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Day trips
[wiki=67bb65eda4453584b0123b14b5842135]Kuala Gandah[/wiki] Elephant Conservation Centre
* [wiki=87cb02af452ca4f77948f31de3e4017f]Genting Highlands[/wiki] - 40 min by road on the East Coast Highway, has cooler weather, theme parks for the kids and a casino for the adults. Easily accessible by buses from KL Sentral. However the outdoor theme park has been announced that it will closed for 3 years for the reason of making way for Twentieth Century Fox Theme Park on 1st of September.
* [wiki=917c2107b6dfbeba234e1e8d6c364c9f]Putrajaya[/wiki] - Malaysia's megalomanic new federal administrative centre is 30 km to the south (20 min by KLIA Transit train).
* [wiki=05598e60294071ba07ef168d68bd9d45]Kuala Selangor[/wiki] - 1 hr north-west of Kuala Lumpur, is notable for its fireflies that flash in unison, and seafood restaurants.
* [wiki=d7e0f4b9f1ddaf3f7ea32df0541b9c40]Klang[/wiki] - former Royal city with a few interesting old buildings and restaurants.
* [wiki=95a63ff8cb3b3de16d17525a8b69e205]Sungai Tekala Recreation Park[/wiki] - 40 min south of Kuala Lumpur (near Hulu Langat District's Semenyih Dam) is a favourite recreation park with comfortable jungle trekking in concrete steps and natural waterfalls suitable for families.
* [wiki=4871a8c6121865466da001e81231cfac]Pulau Ketam[/wiki] (Crab Island) - at the mouth of the River Klang and its Chinese fishing villages make for an interesting day trip. Take the train to [wiki=e8fff3d8fbb0df8da68acb0d8e3689d3]Port Klang[/wiki] (RM5, 1h30) then the boat to the island (RM7, 45 min).
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Further afield
[wiki=f5aef75f0075ce430fd640e5917ccbd1]Malacca[/wiki] - if you have more days to spend in Malaysia, a must-visit is the historical town of Malacca, which is one of the UNESCO's World Heritage sites. Steeped with history of its Dutch, Portuguese and British colonial period, you will find this town to be rich in culture and history.
*[wiki=470cd95e392ad2cca999777aa6b95949]Penang[/wiki] - [wiki=81067050a2da0e45d8b6277326db7ef7]George Town[/wiki] capital city of Penang, is one of UNESCO's World Heritage Site. It is famed for its authentic street food and dubbed "Malaysia's Food Paradise", Baba Nyonya Peranakan cuisine, and laksa, local to this part of Malaysia. Also not to be missed is their pristine beaches and smallest National Park in Malaysia.
* [wiki=4647d00cf81f8fb0ab80f753320d0fc9]Indonesia[/wiki] - take a boat to [wiki=5996824e189d01187a59a33b73e5c1d2]Dumai[/wiki] in [wiki=a16772223d0aacd142b9754285d227fc]Sumatra[/wiki] from [wiki=e8fff3d8fbb0df8da68acb0d8e3689d3]Port Klang[/wiki], a 1h30 train trip from KL.
* [wiki=ac99f362be231d9eb9ec51c5dc37b0b4]Ipoh[/wiki] - 90 minutes by train for cuisine, a water theme park, hot springs, Rafflesia flower, caves and colonial buildings.
*[wiki=0fd3ae282ebc889469642ab0bb9d4703]Cameron Highlands[/wiki] - about 200km from Kuala Lumpur or 85km from Ipoh, offers cooler weather and lovely highland landscapes. You will be able to visit tea plantations, vegetable farms, strawberry farms and nurseries, as well as soak in the colonial history of this plateau. Colonial cottages and bungalows as well as modern hotels, resorts and luxurious hilltop retreats can be found here. Bird-watching, jungle trekking and other outdoor activities are also available.
* [wiki=43e30ef69dc065102c12954851c6fa7c]Taman Negara National Park[/wiki] - The largest national park on [wiki=3102c620f5bb08a0fdfc9a9de80a7855]Peninsular Malaysia[/wiki], known for its excellent jungle trekking and wide variety of birds and insects.
[wiki=2c4bf6be8234465a5d394c55e6baddc0]de:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=d3cbb968e2870acfd4330ad3c12dd8dc]eo:Kuala-Lumpuro[/wiki]
[wiki=e58ce0a997cff89c9fdcea0578785fff]es:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=5b3981e056771b720270d1f6e3343570]fi:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=914b177a17d9d77ac1e989510a259ab1]fr:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=215044905dc422277a81fdcfbc7951c6]it:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=08f045e1667c1512dde6c5daf3e0c285]ja:クアラルンプール[/wiki]
[wiki=52901fbae459beb0721e3a54817de308]nl:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=0140714e9af994dfcbaea04be1fb7cd3]pl:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=a3a0079939302986a84c6672001751da]sv:Kuala Lumpur[/wiki]
[wiki=52fb29a981dc90e06a15713cc293c0b5]zh:吉隆坡[/wiki]
[[WikiPedia:Kuala Lumpur]]
[wiki=1ebc25a27f236cb276feb93b2a107399]Dmoz:Asia/Malaysia/States and Federal Territories/Kuala Lumpur/[/wiki]
[wiki=3ee81f7a957786082424c2fb8ea86e81]World66:asia/southeastasia/malaysia/kualalumpur[/wiki]
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