Top 10 Things in Kuala Lumpur on a Short Break
Petronas Twin Towers - Tourist Attraction
No one will be able to miss these two identical towers that stand as one of the world's tallest buildings and are the nation's icon of pride. For those who like statistics, the buildings stand 452 m tall and there are 88 stories in all amid lots of glass and steel.
It is not possible to go to the top of the towers but the 41st and 42nd sky bridge link is open to a fixed number of visitors every day. All you have to do is queue in the lobby for a free ticket for either the morning or afternoon sessions.
Housed in the towers include a 864 seat theatre that is home to the Malaysia philharmonic Orchestra and an interactive discovery science centre, both of which are frequently visited by the public. Located between the towers is the city's premier shopping complex, the Suria KLCC.
Chow Kit Market - Tourist Attraction
If you like night time shopping amid a blaze of neon lights then this for you. This market only opens on Saturday nights and is located in an area was once a red light district that got cleaned up and is now dominated by this very popular market.
Some say that the best thing about this market is the opportunity to sample local cuisine while meandering through the stalls. The nasi lemak, which is rice boiled in coconut milk and served with curry, is particularly worth a try. The food is affordable so you can eat to your heart's content.
Masjid Jamek - Cutural Attraction
This is the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur and is a typical example of Islamic architecture. Built in 1907, it is set in a grove of palm trees that helps set the serenity and sacredness of the building.
It is not the largest mosque in the country, that honour goes to the National Mosque, known as Masjid Negara, which is more modern and some say, rather Lego like. The National Mosque, which seats 8 000, was completed in 1965 and features an 18 point star on its roof while an 70 m tall minaret catches the eye. But most people prefer to visit Masjid Jamek because it is majestic enough to be featured on many of the post cards that you can buy.
It is worthwhile noting that non Muslims are not allowed in any mosques during prayers.
Meredeka Square/Dataran Merdeka - Tourist Attraction
This is in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and the place where national celebrations and marches are likely to take place. More than that, the square has many buildings of historic importance like the Sultan Abdul Samed Building - built in the 19th century which is an example of Victorian Moorish architecture. This was the centre of British administration during the colonial period and is now home to the Supreme and High courts.
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman - Tourist Attraction
You will be very sorry to leave Malaysia without buying some Middle Eastern carpets which last a lifetime and off course, some antiques. One of the best places to do so is in this street which is jammed with all sorts of antiques and crafts.
Also worth taking home is the kain songket, Malaysia's most high priced woven cloth which usually comes in colours of deep blue, forest green, maroon or purple that is embroidered in silver and gold thread.
Islamic Arts Museum - Cutural Attraction
This is a relatively new museum that has among its exhibits scale models of the world's most famous mosques and buildings like the famous Taj Mahal of India. It is located east of the Lake Gardens near the National Mosque.
There's a lot to learn about the history of Islam through the artifacts which come from various parts of the world like China, the Middle East and Europe. There are relics from the Ottoman Empire of Turkey and Syria and Islamic manuscripts from throughout history.
The museum is the best place in the city to purchase quality Muslim arts and textiles although at prices that are steeper than the other places.
Batu Caves - Tourist Attraction
Just outside the city are these limestone caves that sit on top of a 272 step climb. For the local population the caves are more than just geographical formations as they have Hindu shrines and temples. People come to worship here daily but the busiest time is during the Thaipusam Festival held early in the year when thousands of pilgrims wearing garlands and peacock feathers gather to pay homage.
Golden Triangle/Bukit Bintang - Tourist Attraction
This is the premier business, entertainment and shopping district of Kuala Lumpur which in plain language is the central business district, one that indeed does glitter. There are high rises all over the place like the Petronas Twin Towers (the world's tallest buildings), luxury hotels, night spots and non stop shopping malls. It is definitely a good area for quality shopping items.
Genting Highlands - Tourist Attraction
If you want to let your hair down for a while, just an hour from Kuala Lumpur is this entertainment and amusement complex that has people from all over Asia coming to play.
It is rather bright and noisy which is fine because the idea is for revelers get exactly what they are looking for - spills and thrills. There seems to be something for every body, from arcade games to magic shows and the casino which, by the way is the only casino in Malaysia
Lake Gardens - Tourist Attraction
Every major city has its green belt and Kuala Lumpur is no exception. These gardens, located just off Parliament Rd, were developed in the 1880s and represent over 170 acres of rolling lawns, huge trees, colourful flowers and two lakes. Other features include a National Monument dedicated to the country's war heroes, a children's playground and jogging tracks.
While there, you may as well take advantage of the opportunity to visit the Orchid Gardens and Deer Park, which are around the park. Also in the vicinity are the Butterfly Park and Bird Park.
