AlestraFancy a visit to the bustling hubbub of Kuala Lumpur? There’s just so much to see, eat and experience here. A three-day trip is just barely enough to scratch the surface, but we’ve definitely done our best to include a mix and match of different types of activities and locations that showcase the best that Malaysia has to offer.
Since this itinerary is designed around a 72-hour time frame, you’ll be able to choose from our suggestions below based on your own timing and preference. From shopping and partying to eating and learning more about the unique culture of Malaysia, there won’t ever be a dull moment during your stay.
First Day
Image credit: Khalzuri Yazid
The early bird catches the worm. In your case though, it’ll be a nice and hearty breakfast. Make your way over to Petaling Street (a.k.a. Chinatown) to sample a vast array of local delicacies. There are plenty of hawkers and street-side businessmen peddling their wares around here too. If you’re in the mood to haggle your way through to a good deal, don’t just buy an item from the first shop you visit.
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If you want to brush up on your knowledge of Malaysian history, you can always visit the National Museum (Muzium Negara). It opens daily from 9am to 6pm so you’ll have lots of time to browse through with an entrance fee of RM5/person. There’s even a cafeteria at the museum should you want to sit down for a meal or snack.
You can also visit the other iconic landmarks of Kuala Lumpur such as the National Mosque (Masjid Negara), Petronas Twin Towers, KL Tower and the National Art Gallery. If you’re thinking to pay a visit to the mosque, just take note that it is closed on Friday mornings for prayers.
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If you’re a fan of the outdoors and nature, you can spend your time leisurely exploring the Perdana Botanical Gardens. Entrance is free and you’ll get the chance to discover the charms of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest recreational park. There are plenty of specialised gardens to explore, including the Hibiscus and Orchid Garden.
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Come dinner time, you can visit Jalan Alor in the Bukit Bintang area for lots of Asian dishes and street food. From the Bukit Bintang monorail station, it’s just a seven-minute walk. Hawkers stalls and seafood restaurants serve a multitude of food ranging from barbecued meats and grilled chicken wings to fried noodles and bak kut teh (pork stewed in a herbal soup).
Second Day
One of the must-see sights in Kuala Lumpur is Batu Caves. Located about half an hour north of Kuala Lumpur’s city centre, this massive limestone cave is an especially popular destination during the Thaipusam festival. You’ll be greeted with 272 steep steps into the first chamber of the cave. A large golden statue of Lord Murugan (the Hindu God) stands at the base of the steps. If you want to avoid the crowd and hot afternoon sun, it’s best to pay a visit in the morning as it opens as early as 7am.
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Alternatively, you can participate in a free guided tour of Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka) offered by the KL City Hall. You’ll be taken on a tour of 11 historical sites and it will typically take about 2.5 hours of walking from start to finish. Saturday is the only weekend day available so you might want to try this out. Take note that it starts from 9am and ends at 11.30am.
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For lunch, you can then head back to the city centre. The Kuala Lumpur Central Market (Pasar Seni) features many kinds of local handicrafts and souvenirs. There’s also a food court where you can sit down and relax while enjoying local fare.
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Again, if you prefer outdoor activities, you can also explore a cooling forest right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The KL Forest Eco Park is one of the oldest forest reserves in Malaysia. It’s a popular hiking destination and there’s also a 200m canopy walk that provides visitors with an aerial view of the surrounding trees and city.
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You can also spend your time exploring Little India, a bustling street within walking distance from Kuala Lumpur Sentral. Here, you can sample many types of local and ethnic Indian food and delicacies. If you’re looking to purchase some Indian garb, jewellery or other handicrafts, this is the place to visit.
Third Day
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It’s your last day in this teeming city so you can spend your time leisurely exploring the local shopping scene. If you’re looking for places where you can possibly bargain your way through, you can always check out the Bukit Bintang area (especially Plaza Low Yat). It’s a good place to stock up on I.T. stuff and other trinkets.
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For a more upscale experience, there’s Suria KLCC, Pavilion KL and Starhill Gallery. Each of these establishments also houses an indoor food court. You can always choose to dine there or in one of the many other restaurants available.
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If you’re looking to end your trip with some partying, you should definitely check out Changkat Bukit Bintang. The nightlife here starts early with plenty of restobars, bars, lounges, pubs and nightclubs. Other popular venues you can check out include KL’s Heli Lounge Bar, Gravity Club KL, Sky Bar at Traders Hotel and Live House KL.
