Known for its large international airport, Kuala Lumpur is known only as a stopover city. As the 7th most visited city in the world, KL has so much more to offer than the airport. With massive skyscrapers, shopping malls, and a technologically-driven culture, Kuala Lumpur is on the rise with tourists. Despite its modernity, Kuala Lumpur is still very much connected to its roots. The city is made up of many ethnic groups, especially those of Indian, Malay, and Chinese descent. The ethnic neighborhoods, food, and religious centers are all an indication of Malaysia’s respect for their past and future. The juxtaposition of the new an old makes Kuala Lumpur a unique city.
What we did:
Thean Hou Temple: A breathtaking gorgeous Buddhist temple with incredible architectural details. Thean Hou is one of the largest and oldest temples in Southeast Asia, it’s a peaceful place to spend the morning or afternoon. The main temple and courtyard are beautifully adorned with lanterns all year round. This was by far one of my favorite places we visited.
KL Forest Eco Park: Located in the center of the city, multiple hanging bridges create a walking trail through the jungle. It’s a relatively short walk and it’s free to enter. Even though I was dripping in sweat because of the heat, it was a beautiful nature walk.
KL Tower: The tower stands at 335 meters and has an observation deck that offers amazing panoramic views of the city. The entry fees to the tower cost 55MYR for an adult and 45 MYR for children.
Central Market: If you’re looking for souvenirs this is the place to go! Daniel bought batik shirts, placemats, and handkerchiefs. Batik is a local textile art depicting flowers. I bought two handwoven purses lined on the inside with batik fabric. Make sure you bargain down about 20-30% if you shop here.
Batu Caves: Arrive early (around 7:30) to have the place to yourself and while the monkeys are still asleep! There is no entrance fee for the Batu Caves main temple, but you must cover your knees and shoulders to enter the temple. After climbing up the beautiful 272 rainbow colored stairs you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the city skyline.
Federal Territory Mosque: Jamek Mosque is the oldest mosque in the city. It was built in 1909 and situated at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers, where Kuala Lumpur received its name. You’ll be fitted with some “chic” robes so that you’re appropriately dressed to enter the Mosque grounds.
Where we stayed:
The Face Suites: Because we travelled for weeks out of a carry on, we needed to book a place with a washing machine. The other reasons we chose to stay here are because it’s reasonably priced and the incredible location. Another perk was the rooftop pool that overlooks the Petronas towers.
What we ate:
Lisette’s Bakery: On our first day in KL we woke up early and headed out for breakfast. Lisette’s Bakery was one of our favorite meals on the trip. We each had a breakfast dish and split a delicious meringue pastry. All of their breads and pastries are made every morning, so we bought some treats to enjoy throughout the day.
Limapulo, Baba Can Cook: Our first experience of Peranakan cuisine was one to remember. While we were enjoying our food, the executive chef watched on smiling from ear to ear as we slurped our broth. The venue boasts authentic, cozy, old-school vibes and decades old recipes. We ordered their signature dish, Laksa, which our waiter recommended. The huge portion of soup was creamy, tangy, and fragrant. It consists of noodles, fish balls, fishcakes, shredded chicken, sambal, and half an egg.
Kajang Satay: Satay is something that is taken very seriously in Malaysia. In the afternoon we went to Kajang, the birthplace of Satay to check out the real deal. Satay is seasoned skewered, grilled meat serviced with a creamy peanut sauce. The meat was also served with rice steamed in a banana leaf and a side of cucumbers.
Merchant’s Lane: After you walk up the stairs into the café, you’ll arrive into a hidden quiet getaway decorated with plants, bamboo chairs, and vintage knick-knacks. They serve hand crafted teas and coffees as well as a fusion of Asian and western style brunch.
Chocha Foodstore: Located in a two-story Chinatown shop house the décor features rusty torn walls, exposed brick, worn patterned floor tiles, and plenty of old charm. The word “Chocha” in Hakka means to sit down and drink, hence the welcoming environment. The food is the real star here and menu is a mixture between Malaysian and Chinese cuisine with a modern twist.
Layover Tips:
I suggest taking the KLIA Express Train from the airport into the city. The train stops at both terminals and is the fastest way into the city, avoiding crazy KL traffic. The train leaves every 15-20 minutes and is a quick 30-minute ride to KL Sentral Station. You can then transfer to the local city metro to get to your hotel.
There are no compulsory vaccines required for entry into Malaysia, the usual Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and tetanus vaccines are recommended. Because I’m an adventurous eater I decided to get the Hepatis A shot and I was up to speed with all of the other regular vaccines. Daniel didn’t get any shots before going and he’s alive to tell the tale so it’s really up to you and your comfort level.
Malaysia is just about on the equator so expect tropical, humid weather with temperatures around 80F to 95F
Water from the tap is not safe to drink. It’s recommended to drink bottled water and avoid drinking water from the jugs in restaurants or hawker stalls.
Grab is a rideshare company similar to Lyft or Uber that I highly suggest because it’s very inexpensive. When we went somewhere that was difficult to reach by public transport or I was melting because of the heat we would use Grab.
The mosquitos are no joke in Malaysia! Especially at the Batu caves so I suggest using bug repellent of some sort because I was eaten alive.
Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, so if you don’t want to receive negative looks, I suggest you adapt and dress more conservatively. For example, covering your shoulders and wear midi skirts or pants. This is especially recommended for women.