Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Photograph: Shutterstock | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Photograph: Shutterstock

35 incredible things to do in Kuala Lumpur

This is the definitive guide to the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur, with more street food than you can handle

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We’ll get the obvious out of the way first; if you like street food, you will fall deeply in love with Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian capital is a veritable foodie haven, with finger-licking magic waiting around every corner. Hungry visitors are in for a real treat. 

The best things to do in KL cover much more than marvellous morsels. There is history, culture, architecture, and excitement here, with one of the best nightlife scenes in the region and lots of activities to boot. One of the coolest cities on the planet? There's absolutely no doubt about it.

RECOMMENDED: 
🍽 The best restaurants and cafés in KL
🛏 The best boutique hotels in KL
🌳 The best parks in KL
🎸 The best live music venues in KL

The best things to do in KL

  • Things to do
  • Petaling Street

What is it? An iconic cinema that’s been repurposed and revived into a 60,000 sq ft arts-and-culture mixed-use hub.

Why go? There’s always something going on: art installations, board game meets, flea markets, open mic comedy, DJ nights, live music, themed parties, film screenings, and skate jams. 

Fuel up at the food hall, Food Fiction, where tenants are an ever-evolving lineup – try Raijin Ramen, Licky Chan, Stellar Coffee, Fafaba, Kai Nusantara, or Phil’s Pizza. Over at REX Bar, enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and sparkling tuak (Sarawakian rice wine) on tap. On the rooftop is shhhbuuuleee, an East Asian restobar serving small plates and saké. Visit BilaBila Mart for a reimagined kedai runcit (convenience store) experience, BookXcess, a bibliophile's paradise with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and Outsiders Bikes, an all-terrain adventure bike shop. 

Don’t miss: Snap a pic for the ’gram (or take a clip for the ’tok?) at BookXcess. Everyone’s doing it.

  • Bukit Bintang
  • price 1 of 4

What is it? Come dusk, this street becomes a cacophony of aromas, noise, and food. Hawker stalls and roadside restaurants clamour for your attention, offering all kinds of local and regional cuisines.

Why go? For the sheer variety of local food, from moreish salted egg squid and spicy grilled fish to noodles in rich broths and typical hawker dishes. Jalan Alor’s past reputation as a red-light area has been diminished by the fact that there is so much food and cold beer to be had. Pull up a plastic chair and chow down on some delicious and cheap street food.

Don’t miss: Smoky barbecued chicken wings from Wong Ah Wah, the most famous of Jalan Alor’s eateries, plus they close at 4 am; favourites like black Hokkien mee, oyster omelette, and sambal lala (spicy clams) at Restoran Sai Woo; and char koey teow and satay from Cu Cha Restaurant.

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3. Ride the KL Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

What is it? A double-decked, open-top city tour bus.

Why go? Whether it’s your first time in KL or if you’re playing tourist in your own city, take in the most popular sights at your own pace on a hop-on, hop-off tour. With 27 stops – including Little India, Masjid Jamek, Kampung Baru, Petaling Street, and Suria KLCC – and over 60 attractions, get on and off at any stop and listen to insights with onboard English audio commentary. There’s a night tour too if you prefer to see the city's famous landmarks illuminated after dark.

Don’t miss: The views from the top deck, no matter how congested traffic is.

  • Attractions
  • KL City Centre

What is it? Arguably Malaysia’s most iconic symbol, the Petronas Twin Towers are a magnificent sight and the one photo opportunity every visitor needs to tick off.

Why go? KL’s claim to fame is these Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world at 452 metres high. While there is a two-storey Sky Bridge and an Observation Deck that opens up to stunning views of the city, the view of the Towers themselves is the most impressive and undoubtedly photo-worthy at any angle.

Don’t miss: Position yourself for a different picture angle: try crossing the road away from the crowds or head to the KLCC park for some of the best views of the dazzling towers and a dancing fountain.

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  • Things to do
  • KL City Centre

What is it? The country’s impressive national mosque with contemporary designs and an open layout for plenty of natural light.

Why go? Its stunning architecture was designed by Malaysian architects Hisham Albakri and Baharuddin Kassim and British Howard Ashley, who veered away from traditional dome tops and gave Masjid Negara a grand star-shaped dome, a blue and green tiled roof and a 73-metre high minaret. The mosque is set within 13 acres of lush landscaped gardens with pools and fountains.

Don’t miss: Looking up at the majestic roof and walking around the grounds. Remember to dress appropriately when visiting this place of worship – robes and headscarves are available for you to borrow. Best to visit between prayer times.

6. Support Malaysian traditional arts at a PUSAKA show

What is it? PUSAKA is a cultural non-profit supporting the continuity and viability of traditional Malaysian art forms.

Why go? Mak yong, manora, wayang kulit: it’s traditional performing arts like you’ve never seen before and as the custodians intended without having to head out of the city. The ancient wayang kulit is regularly performed at PUSAKA events, along with the main puteri, kuda kepang, and tarian asyik traditions of Kelantan. There are also cultural dances and music by the Mah Meri of Selangor, the Teochew Puppetry of Penang, and the Chinna Rasa Urumee Melum Masana Kali, a traditional Indian drumming troupe. 

Don’t miss: For real, go to any PUSAKA show. We guarantee a cultural and visual spectacle to be appreciated by almost anyone. Stay updated on Facebook; the shows are typically free admission but with limited capacity, so run, don’t walk.

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  • Things to do
  • Hang Tuah
Explore KL’s coolest creative space at the Zhongshan Building
Explore KL’s coolest creative space at the Zhongshan Building

What is it? A pre-1950s building rejuvenated into an independent creative arts and research hub, housing arts, cultural and retail spaces.

Why go? This community space is home to various art galleries, exhibition spaces, live music bars, record shops and bookstores championing local artists and writers. There’s almost always something going on here – whether it’s an exhibition by local artists, a talk on how literature has developed in the country or a gig by underground musicians, there’s rarely an event-free weekend here.

Don’t miss: Malaysia Design Archive – an initiative that preserves and maps the country’s visual history and culture and helps cultivate a sense of appreciation through various talks and workshops. Also, visit homegrown brand Ana Tomy for customised stationery and notebooks or the Back Room for provocative art exhibits. Keeping it low-key is multi-purpose music space Fono for DJ sets and live music sessions featuring local and regional acts. 

  • Art
  • Galleries
  • KL City Centre
  • Recommended
Immerse in art at the National Art Gallery
Immerse in art at the National Art Gallery

What is it? Malaysia’s official venue for all things art includes seven main galleries over three floors hosting local and international artworks.

Why go? As the country’s premier art venue, established in 1958, the National Art Gallery strives to cultivate a sense of appreciation for the arts through showcasing works by Malaysia’s leading artists, hosting shows that feature up-and-coming local talents alongside international artists, as well as organising art talks and workshops. Permanent displays and international exhibitions span photography, paintings, and sculptures.

Don’t miss: The permanent collection of art, comprising over 3,000 pieces by renowned local artists Wong Hoy Cheong, Ahmad Fuad Osman, Zulkifli Dahalan, and batik artist Chuah Thean Teng; as well as the building’s architecture, which intermingles Malay heritage with modern design elements.

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  • Malaysian
  • Shah Alam
  • price 3 of 4

What is it? Oh, just Malaysia’s top restaurant according to Asia's 50 Best (2019 & 2022) and the first to be awarded two stars by the Michelin Guide 2025. No biggie. 

Why go? A portmanteau of the Malay words dewa and makan meaning – “god” and “food” – Dewakan can be interpreted as “food of gods.” Chef-proprietor Darren Teoh helms Dewakan, which redefines modern Malaysian cuisine with a spotlight on indigenous ingredients such as buah keluak and kulim, as well as locally and sustainably sourced produce. There’s only one prix fixe tasting menu at RM870 per pax. Some highlights from the current menu include charcoal-roasted pigeon, patin fish wrapped in simpoh air leaves then smoked to perfection, pan-seared dumplings of local eggplant and petai miso puree, and eggs with kelulut honey.

Don’t miss: The view. Located on Level 48 of Naza Tower, the restaurant offers spectacular sights of the sun setting over the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

What is it? Sleek and minimalist, Penrose is the hottest bar in town serving a bespoke cocktail experience.

Why go? For starters, Penrose has claimed the No. 8 spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars (2024) list (the highest ranking for any Malaysian bar) – an impressive feat given the bar’s only been open for about two years. Second, is the creative flair they bring to beloved classics like highballs and sours – raise a toast to their tightly crafted menu of 15 cocktails. Then there’s the intimate interior of dark walls, muted lighting, and just 25 counter-seats that encourage conversation and interaction across the bar. It helps that bartenders are friendly and attentive.

Don’t miss: The Rum Masa is a standout drink. It puts a spin on the banana daiquiri, combining the musa banana from skin to stem with rum, tamarind, and pimento berries for a rich, fruity sip.

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  • Things to do
  • Masjid Jamek

What is it? The most famous field in Malaysia where independence was declared on August 31 1957. The former world’s tallest flagpole is here, at 95 metres, proudly flying the Jalur Gemilang (Stripes of Glory).

Why go? Surrounding the square are colonial-era landmark buildings depicting various styles of architecture, including Moorish, Moghul, Colonial, and Straits Chinese. Follow the heritage walking trail and take in the sights like the Sultan Abdul Samad building – with its intricate detailing, copper domes, brickwork, and arched doorways – and the Queen Victoria Fountain.

Don’t miss: The KL Night Walk (similar to the Heritage Walk) through lively night markets, street bazaars, and the Panggung Bandaraya, the oldest theatre in the country. Wander along the waterfront pathway, right behind the Sultan Abdul Samad building, that leads you to the city’s oldest mosque, Masjid Jamek, another prime example of Moghul architecture.

  • Things to do
  • Masjid Jamek

What is it? Discover a profusion of temples showcasing a microcosm of different cultures and religions in Chinatown.

Why go? Being a multicultural country means embracing different religions and beliefs, and a wander through Chinatown brings you to Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in KL with a majestic five-tiered raja gopuram tower of carved deities. There’s also a succession of Taoist temples honouring Guan Di (God of War), Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy), and Chan See Shu Yuen, a former clan house.

Don’t miss: The ornate Sin Sze Si Ya Temple is the oldest Taoist temple in KL and was built by Yap Ah Loy, the third Kapitan Cina (a position of great influence), in 1864. Get your fortune told by the temple caretaker after rattling the kao chim (fortune-telling sticks).

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13. Put your haggling skills to the test at Petaling Street

What is it? KL’s Chinatown revolves around Petaling Street – a bustling area famous for its street market.

Why go? We recommend Petaling Street at night for more adventurous shopping when lanterns are lit and the market opens for business. There’s the novelty of it all – colourful stalls manned by a vibrant mix of foreign and local vendors who vie for your attention, and the challenge of haggling vigorously for the best deal. Pick up a great bargain – everything from knockoff Gucci bags and Rolex watches to Lacoste T-shirts and electronics.

Don’t miss: The food here is just as fantastic – try muar chee (a sweet snack of sticky rice balls), apam balik (peanut pancake), Hokkien-style fried noodles, bak kwa or barbecued jerky, air mata kucing (a refreshing herbal drink), and soybean milk. 

  • Shopping
  • Gifts and souvenirs
  • Petaling Street

What is it? A classic Art Deco building housing a warren of arts, crafts, batik, jewellery, and antique shops.

Why go? Constructed in 1888 as a wet market for the then-bustling town, the building went through a major refurbishment in the 1980s and was transformed into what it is today. Now, it’s the perfect spot to stock up on souvenirs, with over 300 shops selling everything from tourist tat to fantastic local handicrafts. Find Pasar Besar (Market Hall) on the ground floor for prettily packaged food items like local tea, spices, chocolate, and tuak; Apom for quirky t-shirts and totes; and postcards and puzzles in the cutest designs at Loka Made.

Don’t miss: The real draw here is to have customised portraits done at Annexe Gallery.  Located on the second floor, it’s an art space where local artists and performers stage exhibitions, gigs, film screenings, book fairs, and theatre productions.

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  • Bukit Bintang
Marvel at the city skyline at Vertigo
Marvel at the city skyline at Vertigo

What is it? The city’s tallest hotel rooftop bar, Vertigo is perched on Level 59 of the stylish Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur. 

Why go? The iconic KL skyline has become the backdrop to many a night out, and Vertigo ticks all the boxes - uninterrupted panoramas and a good selection of wine, beer, and cocktails. Not afraid of heights you say? Take it up a notch: for deluxe drinking at its finest, try Vertigo Too, on the hotel’s top-most tier, 60 floors above the city.

Don’t miss: Snag a seat in front of the bar, where the view includes both the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower.

  • Things to do
  • Batu Caves

What is it? A 400-million-year-old limestone cave complex in Gombak that’s one of the most famous Hindu temples outside India. It’s just a short hop from KL. 

Why go? The temple, built in 1891 in honour of Lord Murugan, has the world’s tallest (42.7 metres) statue of Lord Murugan bathed in gold, nonchalant (cheeky) monkeys roaming about and fluttering bats. It is also the best place to experience Thaipusam in all its glory. During Thaipusam, large crowds pay homage with a procession that will stun and awe visitors – devotees pierce their skin and carry pots of milk up to the temples. Visitors who climb up the cliffside’s brightly painted 272 steps are rewarded with sweeping city views.

Don’t miss: The Temple Cave – the largest in the complex – and the Ramayana Cave (named after the Hindu epic) watched over by a towering Hanuman. Each temple glows beneath stalactites with dazzling dioramas of mythical scenes.

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17. Stroll under the lush canopy at the KL Forest Eco Park

What is it? A 10-hectare jungle, one of Malaysia’s oldest forest reserves, right in the middle of the city – a stark contrast from the concrete around.

Why go? If you’re the type of traveller who’s happier hiking in nature than traipsing around city corners, include the KL Forest Eco Park in your itinerary. The park’s best feature is its canopy walk, 200 metres above the forest floor – take in aerial views of the lush treetops, with the city just beyond. Keep your eyes peeled for silver-leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques. The park is also home to bats, civet cats, squirrels, reptiles, and migratory birds like magpies, owls, and eagles. Nature trails and jogging tracks are all well-marked.

Don’t miss: Combine the park with a visit to the KL Tower next door – the views from its 900-foot observation deck are still some of the best in the city.

  • Indian
  • Bangsar
  • price 2 of 4

What is it? A perpetually bustling eatery, Sri Nirwana is the go-to for banana leaf rice, where locals and tourists sit side-by-side digging into curried banana leaf rice. A Bib Gourmand recipient.

Why go? Sri Nirwana has been around for over ten years, but the constant crowds testify to the place's quality. The winning combination of generous servings and consistently good banana leaf rice with top-notch curries and sides make it worth any wait (and price). Remember to order a side of fried chicken or squid, lamb varuval, or their chicken 65. So, roll up your sleeves and eat like a local, with your hands, of course (fret not – cutlery is provided).

Don’t miss: The deep-fried bitter gourd. They come with the meal, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself asking for more of these addictive munchies.

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  • Chinese
  • Bandaraya
  • price 2 of 4
  • Recommended

What is it? A famed family-run heritage restaurant where the same dishes have been served for generations.

Why go? Yut Kee is a KL institution. If a restaurant has been serving the same dishes for nine decades, it must know what it is doing. Breakfast is an all-day affair here. Dine off marble-topped coffee shop tables, observe the quirkily efficient way the long queues of diners are managed, and add Lea & Perrins sauce to everything!

Don’t miss: Signature dishes like kaya (coconut jam) toast, chicken or pork chops, roti babi (translates to ‘pig bread’, but is really a deep-fried pork sandwich), Hailam noodles, and buttery marble cake.

  • Music
  • Music venues
  • KL City Centre
  • Recommended

What is it? The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is the resident symphony orchestra at the Dewan Filharmonik Petronas (DFP) and comprises musicians from many different cultures and nationalities.

Why go? The MPO has hosted world-famous singers and musicians, including Branford Marsalis, Andrea Bocelli, and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. They perform across genres from classical and baroque to pop and jazz and have a vibrant monthly programme that includes chamber concerts and family-oriented afternoons. The concert hall (located at the heart of the Twin Towers) is in itself impressive – imagine intricately carved Malaysian wood screens, a Klais pipe organ, and terrific acoustics.

Don’t miss: Seasonal specials and performances by visiting orchestras and musicians. The MPO’s Family Fun Days are an absolute treat for little ones with pre-concert workshops, interactive performances, and games.

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  • Shopping
  • Markets and fairs
  • Cheras

What is it? Every Wednesday, one of the largest (and longest, stretching two kilometres) night markets in the city swings into hectic action at Taman Connaught in the Cheras neighbourhood.

Why go? Almost 700 stalls offer a vast array of hawker food, local snacks, questionable tech gadgets, household items, clothing, accessories, toys, and provisions at lower prices than the shops. This is a KL night market at its busiest, complete with the full sensory experience of wafting smells, noisy chatter, and bright lights – go hungry and nibble your way through.

Don’t miss: There are all kinds of intriguing food here, but stinky tofu is the clear winner. Once you get past the smell, you’ll find that it’s pretty good!

  • Music
  • Bukit Bintang
Party the night away at Changkat Bukit Bintang
Party the night away at Changkat Bukit Bintang

What is it? A bustling street lined with various bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants – great for a night out, whether for dinner, partying, or bar hopping.

Why go? Changkat Bukit Bintang is an enduring district in KL’s nightlife scene – from crowded dance floors and noisy pubs to stylish bars and eateries with food that hits the spot after (or in the middle of) a night of partying. Try old favourites (Havana Bar and Grill, Pisco Bar, Bijan, El Cerdo, and Pinchos Tapas) or newer additions (Cielo KL, Tokiotonic, and speakeasy Te Amo). Patios spill out onto sidewalks making it also ideal for people-watching.

Don’t miss: The fantastic deals on drinks. Most bars have great weekday promotions (especially for ladies), so if you’re looking for a mid-week pick-me-up, head here.

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  • Art
  • Galleries
  • KL City Centre
Immerse in the splendour of Islamic art at the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
Immerse in the splendour of Islamic art at the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

What is it? It is the largest museum for Islamic art in Southeast Asia, having amassed over 12,000 artefacts from the Islamic world with a strong focus on India, China, and the Malay Archipelago.

Why go? The museum, devoted to preserving the rich legacy of Islamic art, culture, and design, will wow with its curation of exquisite ancient jewellery, hand-written Korans, intricate calligraphy, ceramics, stunning large-scale models of famous mosques, and fabulous textiles. Attend a workshop or an insightful lecture to learn more about Islamic art and history, and be sure to visit one of the city’s best museum gift shops.

Don’t miss: The unique copy of the illuminated 19th-century Terengganu Quran, an ancient inscribed stone, will rouse your curiosity (Terengganu is a Malaysian state). But apart from the relics, the museum’s architecture and design are striking enough – majestic domes, glass walls, and beautiful glazed tile work.

  • Art
  • KL City Centre
  • Recommended

What is it? A public art gallery with a well-curated gift shop carrying more than 50 unique and quirky Malaysian brands.

Why go? It’s no secret that the gallery has one of the best gift shops in the city. The range of gifts and souvenirs has been carefully sourced from artisans, designers, and craftspeople from all over Malaysia. Expect to find such brands as Asian Scents, Raksasa Prints, Mowgli, Bentuk Bentuk, Cultkids, Bingka, and more. There’s a good chance you can pick up coffee table art books, limited edition prints and postcards, Sarawakian baskets, unique stationery, earrings, stickers, and card games with a distinct Malaysian flair. Perfect for a keepsake or as gifts to take home to friends and family.

Don’t miss: Sit down for coffee and cake at the gift shop after some browsing. Be sure to bag some popular Malaysian snacks on your way out.

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25. Take up a cooking class at LaZat

What is it? A cooking school with a difference, LaZat offers cooking classes focusing on authentic Malaysian dishes, including nasi lemak, chicken rendang, curry laksa, and roti jala. The school is located in the Bangsar neighbourhood, just a 20-minute drive from the city.

Why go? Recipes are family favourites, and the instructors are passionate about local cuisine. Classes are hands-on and begin with a trip to a local market to familiarise participants with local ingredients, herbs, and spices. Each day of the week offers a unique local menu with detailed explanations of ingredients and cooking techniques. The best part: the session ends with everyone sitting down to enjoy the meal they cooked.

Don’t miss: The chance to choose from courses and menus covering different Malaysian cultures and cuisines – Malay, Nyonya, and Chinese. You prepare all the courses, while the dessert course is a demo.

  • Things to do
  • KL City Centre
  • Recommended

What is it? The best aquarium in the country housing over 5,000 aquatic species from giant sea turtles and seahorses to sand tiger sharks and Asian small-clawed otters.

Why go? It’s a great way to spend a fun educational afternoon with the kids. They’ll see aquatic animals they may not get a chance to in the wild and learn about the different bodies of water on the planet like mangroves, deep oceans, and streams. One of the aquarium’s highlights is the 90-metre-long transparent tunnel with a moving walkway, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and giant groupers.

Don’t miss: The regular feeding sessions and special sessions where divers hand-feed the larger fishes; and the interactive discovery zones that give kids access to touch and feel starfish and corals.

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  • Street food
  • Damansara
Chow down on an all-Malaysian Ramly burger
Chow down on an all-Malaysian Ramly burger

What is it? From small burger stalls to food trucks, the ubiquitous Ramly burger is found in every neighbourhood, usually near a petrol station or 7-11.

Why go? This is a Malaysian culinary icon, comprising beef, chicken, or lamb patty smothered in mayo, chilli and BBQ sauces, processed cheese, and egg wrapped in the kind of white bun that absorbs everything. It’s messy and oozing with post-clubbing and hangover goodness.

Don’t miss: A household name, Brader John Burger is famous for its Master Burger – two Ramly beef or chicken patties sandwiched with egg and cheese and a generous dollop of their signature special sauce. They open at 10 pm, and there’s always a queue, but it’s worth it to make the 30-minute trek from the city centre for this special burger.

  • Things to do
  • Taman Desa

What is it? A stunning six-tiered Chinese temple, perched atop a hill, dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Matsu and with wonderful views.

Why go? The most immediate and striking aspect is the temple’s picturesque pagodas with vermilion red pillars and curved roofs. Upper tiers afford you glimpses of its ornate columns and intricately carved eaves of mosaic dragons and phoenixes. Visitors can get a sense of the community’s history and beliefs – Chinese immigrants prayed to the goddess Matsu when they set out on their journey from the mainland. Light a few joss sticks in the prayer hall, have your fortune told, or wander about in the medicinal herb garden.

Don’t miss: The photo you will want to get is of the temple’s courtyard with rows of overhanging red and yellow lanterns. At sundown, the temple radiates an otherworldly glow when lanterns are lit.

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  • Chinese
  • Klang
  • price 1 of 4

What is it? Under The Bridge Bak Kut, Restoran Seng Huat is as old-school as it gets and one of the Klang originals.

Why go? The long-stewed, soup-rich broth of Chinese herbs and spices is the star here – full of porky goodness and herbal oomph, balanced with the right amount of sweetness. The tofu puffs, lettuce, shiitake mushrooms, and char kueh are just the icing on the cake.

Don’t miss: Ask for a tua kut (big bone) – the meat’s so tender, that it practically falls off the bone.

  • Things to do
  • KL City Centre
  • Recommended
Go bird-watching at the KL Bird Park
Go bird-watching at the KL Bird Park

What is it? Purportedly the largest free-flight walk-in aviary in the world, spread over 21 acres and home to thousands of colourful birds from nearly 200 species.

Why go? Lush and tranquil, it feels like walking through a tropical rainforest. There’s nothing quite like standing in the middle of the aviary to get a real sense of the habitat as birds fly freely above you and breed naturally rather than in cages. Be sure to have your cameras ready. Spot flamingos, parrots, hornbills, owls, and posturing peacocks. Don’t be in a rush for there’s plenty to see – butterflies, monkeys, reptiles, and other tropical fauna too.

Don’t miss: The entertaining bird show at the amphitheatre, feeding sessions (throughout the day), and a photo booth where you snap pictures with your feathered friends to complete the experience.

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  • Attractions
  • Parks and gardens
  • KL City Centre
Have a fun family day at KLCC Park
Have a fun family day at KLCC Park

What is it? KL’s favourite park – 50 acres of lush greenery that’s well-groomed and manicured in the busy city centre and home to over 1,000 indigenous trees and plants.

Why go? This deceptively large urban park was designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx and is home to a children’s playground with fantastic play equipment, fountains, jogging tracks, sculptures, walking paths, swim and splash pools for the little ones. Gazebos and benches are scattered about the park, making for great picnic spots.

Don’t miss: Lake Symphony – the daily light and music show set at the fountains in front of Suria KLCC. It’s a fun and simple way to wind down after a family day. The best part – all of this can be enjoyed for free.

  • Things to do
  • Klang
Get to know the Mah Meri culture at Pulau Carey
Get to know the Mah Meri culture at Pulau Carey

What is it? Pulau Carey (or Carey Island) is home to the indigenous Mah Meri tribe, descendants of sea gypsies, and the Mah Meri Cultural Village, where the tribe shares and passes on their cultural heritage. The village is open on Saturdays and Sundays (the entrance fee is RM20 for adults, RM15 for kids).

Why go? This tribe’s distinctive culture is over three hundred years old, and they’re internationally renowned for their intricate wooden masks and carvings. The Cultural Village houses a museum and a traditional house and organises workshops that teach the Mah Meri art of wood carving, leaf origami, and pandanus weaving. Visitors can also catch traditional dances and ritual demonstrations that showcase their rich cultural heritage.

Don’t miss: Hari Moyang – or Spirit’s Day – is an annual festival that honours and pays respect to the village guardians. Visitors are welcome to participate in selected parts of the ceremonial activities.

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  • Bangsar

What is it? An intimate live music venue that’s popular for hosting jazz, rock, Broadway, cool pop, and R&B.

Why go? Bobo KL strikes all the right notes for a successful night out on the town. The venue was created for live performances – you’ll find the glamour of the stage with its baby grand alluring. However, it’s their monthly repertoire that steals the spotlight, featuring live music spanning various genres, complemented by comedy, dance, and poetry. The stage has witnessed the presence of some of KL’s top homegrown talents. Culinary offerings on the menu focus on simple classics and tapas, and an array of beers, wines, and cocktails.

Don’t miss: Pre-order Bobo KL’s famous post-show gourmet nasi lemak bungkus (nasi lemak wrapped in banana leaf) – a cult favourite amongst seasoned patrons.

  • Things to do
  • Event spaces
  • Setapak

What is it? The School of Hard Knocks is a workshop conducted at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre; Royal Selangor is a renowned Malaysian pewter manufacturer famed for its exquisite craftsmanship.

Why go? For a hands-on experience at pewter crafting suitable for the whole family. Knock and hammer to craft a sheet of pewter into your very own dish – you’ll be guided through the processes of forming, scraping, polishing, and packing pewter. The finished dish, engraved with your initials, is yours to keep. The workshop, which costs RM75, is an apt activity given that KL began as a tin mining town.

Don’t miss: Check out the exciting pewter figurines from the Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, and Marvel collections. You can’t visit the centre without learning about the history of Royal Selangor and the science of pewter-making through engaging exhibits, demos, and guided tours – all absolutely free.

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  • Things to do
  • Sunway
  • Recommended
Ride the slides at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Ride the slides at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

What is it? KL’s favourite outdoor theme park with fun rides and water slides.

Why go? It is guaranteed to be your kids’ ideal vacation scenario: ride, slide, surf, repeat. This is your family’s one-stop for an adrenaline-fueled adventure, spanning 88 acres with six zones and more than 90 attractions for ample thrills and fun. Take your pick: dive into turbulent waters on the Rapid, zip down water slides, surf waves up to 8 feet at Surf Beach, ride a Wild West-themed rollercoaster, or bungee jump off one of the world’s longest suspension bridges. There is a resort, adventure park, wildlife-themed park, extreme park, and scream park, plus Asia’s first Nickelodeon-themed attraction.  

Don’t miss: Plummet into the Vuvuzela, an 11-storey high plunge ride that counts amongst the world’s largest vortex rides. Not for the fainthearted.

Explore Kuala Lumpur

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