Why Kuala Lumpur Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Kuala Lumpur (KL) the capital city of Malaysia has metamorphosed from a tin mining town in the mid-19th century to the iconic capital city it is today with world-class man-made structures and glorious natural beauty blending well to offer an enticing getaway to scores of people who arrive here. Discover the many interesting and intriguing delights that abound in KL so that you are convinced to make your next trip to this exciting city.
Phalinn Ooi from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Underwater tunnel in Aquaria KLCC, CC BY 2.0
KL offers a fine combination of ancient and modern
The adage of a mix of the old and new sits well with KL as the city encompasses this vividly. The tallest twin buildings in the world, Petronas Twin Towers attract visitors to marvel at its height and futuristic features and ogle at the view from its viewing decks at the top.
The same visitors who stroll down from their hotel apartment in Kuala Lumpur to Petaling Street Market find themselves intrigued by the hive of activity of this traditional market just as much as they are charmed by serene temples like the ancient yet well-preserved Thean Hou Buddhist temple. These contrasts demonstrate the rich past and the futuristic vision of this metropolis.
KL is a haven for shopaholics
KL has taken the captivating shopping experiences to new heights by offering some of Asia’s finest malls in the city.
Names like the Pavilion, Iconic Suria KLCC, Mid Valley Mega Mall, Starhill Gallery and Berjaya Times Square are names that come to mind in glitzy malls in KL well stocked with the world’s finest brand names combining shopping, dining and entertainment. It is not surprising that Malaysians simply adore shopping.
Apart from the malls KL also has numerous traditional markets and creations by local artisans at boutiques around the city to pick up essentially Malaysian art and craft which visitors find quite interesting.
KL has an incredible food scene
Starting with Nasi Lemak to Roti Canai to Wantan Mee, KL offers an eclectic mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese cuisine loved by locals and visitors alike apart from international cuisine. The delectable fare can be relished at street food arenas, at the food courts of various malls, restaurants and fine dining venues offering elegant and lavish dining options.
However, most visitors to KL including those enjoying their stay at properties like Oakwood Hotel and Residence Kuala Lumpur love to explore the street food experience as KL is renowned for its fantastic dishes like clay pot chicken rice, satay, char kuay teow, pork noodle, pot biriyani and many more. Their local food tours attract many visitors to KL.
KL’s Modern Architecture is a visual treat
With Petronas Twin Towers already attracting visitors for its features, fame and views, KL Tower or Manara Tower in the capital city is ranked the 7th tallest telecommunications tower in the world and its observation deck at 276 m and sky desk at 300 m above ground level offer outstanding views of the city.
A more recent marvel that was unveiled in November 2023 is the Merdeka 118 Tower, a striking skyscraper standing at a height of nearly 679 m, with 118 storeys, this is the second tallest structure and building in the world after Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
Not only are these marvels IG-worthy and visually pleasing, but they also afford many opportunities for keen visitors to explore the views from the observation decks to capture panoramic views across KL.
KL’s other amazing attractions and sites
Complementing the numerous facets of KL discussed above, these additional few below will give an insight into other natural, historical and man-made attractions waiting to be savoured by visitors.
Aquaria KLCC – Situated below KL Convention Centre, this unique oceanarium has many exhibits of marine life from Malaysia and from other parts of the world offering a fine view of marine wildlife in a transparent tunnel that is appreciated by visitors of all ages,
Zoo Negara – Situated 5 km from KL city, this national zoo is home to a large collection of fauna and flora in over 12 sections. The giant pandas of this zoo are a star attraction while children love many others too.
Batu Caves – The colourful stairs at the entrance to Batu Caves are an iconic symbol of this historic site with a series of caves and cave temples in Selangor, KL. Ascending the steps, you enter the beautiful ancient Hindu Shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan.
