Sal Getting Around Kuala Lumpur
There are a few main ways to get around Kuala Lumpur for sightseeing such as ** Grab car booking service, rail transit systems, and free tourist buses. Grab transportation apps provide an easy and budget-friendly option for single rides or group trips between attractions not within walking distance. For longer stays, a daily or multi-day transit pass for the **Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), and monorail networks offers unlimited travel to most major landmarks. Several free hop-on hop-off tourist buses circulate between the most popular destinations if you prefer seeing the city from the top deck.
Vibrant Markets and Shopping Streets
No visit to KL is complete without exploring the lively Chinatown market streets bursting with colorful shops and stalls selling fresh produce, street food snacks and traditional goods. Nearby Bukit Bintang shopping district offers high street shopping malls like Pavilion and luxury boutiques spread along Jalan Alor, a famous tourist food street. Another top shopping and dining area is Sungai Wang Plaza and its surrounding high rises. These areas within walking distance offer endless options for shopping, eating and people watching.
Museums Showcasing Malaysian Culture and History
Several outstanding museums in KL provide a rich cultural learning experience. The National Museum of Malaysia exhibits artifacts spanning thousands of years of settlements and the evolution of traditions. At the Islamic Arts Museum, marvel at exquisite artifacts and learn about the influence of Islamic arts in Southeast Asia. Nature lovers will enjoy the interactive exhibits at Petaling Street Butterfly Park and KL Bird Park where you can spot colorful native species up close.
Natural Escapes and Stunning Views
For refreshing escapes from the bustling city, head to the KL Forest Eco Park where you can hike trails among tropical rainforests. Further away but highly recommended is Batu Caves, a limestone cave system with ornate Hindu temples. The nearby FRIM Forest Research Institute of Malaysia contains rainforest patches and walking trails. Of course, save time to admire the panoramic views from the observation decks of the Petronas Towers during your visit.
Delicious Local Cuisine Everywhere You Turn
Food is truly a highlight of any KL trip. From hawker stalls to fine dining restaurants, you’ll find an incredible variety of local specialties influenced by different cultures. Must-try dishes include nasi lemak, laksa, roti canai, satay and of course the famous Malaysian durian fruit. Be sure to sample these foods at Jalan Alor, Chinatown lanes and other top foodie enclaves scattered around the city. Venturing outside the city, you can visit Genting Highlands resort area for its casino and indoor theme parks.
Majestic Architecture Showcasing Islamic Heritage
The beauty and influence of Islamic architecture in Malaysia is on full display at several important landmarks. Wow at the intricate geometric patterns adorning the Blue Mosque in historical Old Kuala Lumpur. Stroll through lush gardens surrounding the stunning white domes and minarets of the National Mosque. Nearby Masjid Negara also features impressive Islamic design elements. History buffs should visit Fort Cornwallis and the remaining bastion to learn about colonial influences on the early city development.
Outdoor Activities and Theme Parks Beyond the City
For outdoor adventure seekers, escape the concrete jungle for nearby nature escapes. Interactive animal exhibits and zip lining through rainforest canopies await you at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park. Go island hopping or snorkeling among coral reefs in Pulau Ketam just off the coast. Further afield in Port Dickson, popular beaches offer water activities and laidback retreats. Adventurists can try their hand at hiking trails snaking through tropical rainforests at FRIM, Batu Caves or protected parks within an hour’s drive from KL city center.
Public Transportation Options in Changchun, China