Kuala Lumpur Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

Kuala Lumpur Things to Do

As the capital of Malaysia and a cosmopolitan urban center, Kuala Lumpur offers a multitude of experiences for visitors. Here are the top things to do when visiting Kuala Lumpur.

Petronas Twin Towers

Once the tallest buildings in the world, the Petronas Twin Towers still reign as the tallest twin towers on the globe at 452 meters above ground level. Each floor follows Islamic geometric forms by interlocking two squares to create an eight-pointed star. You can buy your tickets online or in-person, but do so as far in advance as possible because only a limited number are distributed each day. At the top, expect spectacular city views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are found in the northern suburb of Gomak and can be reached with a half-hour ride on the KRM Komuter train. Follow the crowds to the gold statue of Lord Muruga and be prepared to climb the steep 272 steps to the top of the limestone hill. You’ll then encounter several shrines with statues and paintings, such as the 15-meter high statue of Hanuman. Keep a tight hold on your belongings or the roaming macaques may steal them from you.

Genting Highlands

A popular weekend getaway, the Genting Highlands, also known as Resorts World Genting, is a resort complex that includes hotels, restaurants, shopping, and attractions. Snow World brings winter to the tropics with actual ice and snow. Open to non-Muslims who are 21 years old and above, the Casino features slot machines and other gambling diversions. When you want to get back to nature, the Jungle Trek takes you through one of the oldest rainforests in Malaysia.

Merdeka Square

Merdeka means “independence” in Malay, and this open field represents Malaysia’s pride in its history. It’s the site of national events and celebrations. From here, at 95 meters tall, one of the world’s tallest flagpoles flies a large version of The Stripes of Glory, the Malaysian flag. Notable buildings around the square include the Neo-Moorish towers of the Railway Station, the colonial Tudor style of the Royal Selangor Club, and the copper domes of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

KL Tower – Menara Telecommunications Tower

One advantage of scaling the 421 meters of the KL Tower is that the views you can get of the Petronas Twin Towers. If you want open-air city vistas unobstructed by glass, the open deck at 300 meters is available, but only after you sign a promise not to jump. This former telecommunications tower also offers views from an observation deck at 276 meters and a revolving restaurant at 282 meters.

Chinatown – Petaling Street

While this street features buyable delights, the reason for strolling the commercial center is to enjoy the intricate architecture of Chinese shophouses. Merchants originally built these structures to contain their stores in the lower floors while living in the quarters above. While the eateries here are convenient, they don’t represent the best that the city has to offer, being offered primarily geared toward tourists.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Malaysia Travel Guide: What to Do in Malaysia
• Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
• The World’s 6 Most Incredible Luxury Train Trips

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Kuala Lumpur.