Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia is a true melting pot of cultures. You will witness that first hand as you explore the sweltering metropolis. From Buddhist temples to the National Mosque it is no doubt that KL is rife with history. There is no shortage of landmarks to visit. Here are 5 must see spots on your next expedition to one of the most visited cities in the world.
Start your day with the Royal Museum. This is the former residence of the king and queen of Malaysia. It opened February 1, 2013 to the public. On display you’ll see exactly how a royal family lived. There are 22 rooms to view in all from the laundry room to the cinema theater. Each room can only be viewed from a distance behind red velvet ropes to protect the authenticity of original furniture in the palace. Although there are placards explaining the use of each room in both English and Malaysian. Be aware that no photography is allowed inside the museum unless you have special permission. Photos from the outside are permitted.
The Buddhist Thean Hou Temple in Seputah, Kuala Lumpur is truly a sight to see. The 6 tiered masterpiece is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. The temple was established in 1981 but did not open its doors until 1989. It is a cross between Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism and that is quite evident in the architectural structure.
You’ll have a chance to light incense, pray and place the burning symbol into a kettle. Inside there are three altars with dedications to Guan Yin the Goddess of Mercy, Tian Hou and Shui Wei Sheng Niang the Goddess of the Waterfront.
This gem is open to the public and is free of charge. There are donation boxes when burning the incense and inside the temple. A cafeteria and gift shop are also on premise in the basement.
The Petronas Towers are a massive behemoth of steel and concrete with a glass veneer. They are still the largest twin towers in the world and once held the prestige of being the largest building in the world. It’s absolutely worth seeing this beauty up close and personal and does not cost anything. If you want to go in the towers to walk across the conjoining bridge, be sure to make reservations a day in advance.
Kuala Lumpur Tower is the 7th tallest of its kind in the world and the tallest spot in KL to view the city. It’s not just any tower though, its actually used for communications purposes like broadcasting television and sports an antenna that raises 1,381 feet for radio.
The observation deck boasts a 360 degree view for visitors. It also has a mini zoo, aquarium, upside down house and KL forest eco park. Restaurants and souvenir stands are also on site.
Batu Caves might be the grand daddy of tourist spots in Malaysia. It is located about 20 minutes from Kuala Lumpur in Selangor. The country hit the record books with the gargantuan statue of hindu Deity, Muruagn, towering 140 ft tall. The tallest in the world.
272 multi-color vibrant concrete steps lead to a Hindu Temple Cave. Batu Caves has 3 main caves and multiple smaller ones. Although the main cave is free, Dark Cave is 33 RM while Cave Villa is 15 RM and Ramayana Cave is 5 RM.
