The capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is known for it’s welcoming locals and mesmerizing city sights. There was a time when travelers made Kuala Lumpur a pitstop on their way to Penang and other popular Malaysian destinations. Over the past few years however, KL has become a fantastic destination in its own right.
Tourists from all over the world are flooding to the vibrant city to experience Malaysian culture, cuisine, and landmarks. To completely experience the city and its surroundings, make sure to plan ahead. Here are our top rated day trips to take around the prosperous and peaceful city of Kuala Lumpur.
Checking Out the Incredible Architecture
If there’s one thing you can’t miss during your visit, it’s spotting the gorgeous KL towers. Especially when you’re into architecture, make sure to take a day trip visiting the city's most famous towers. Growing tall from KL’s main hub is the Petronas Twin Towers, popularly known as the Twin Jewels of Kuala Lumpur, holding the record for the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers. At night, the towers are lit and it creates a gorgeous backdrop for photos. With musical fountain shows throughout the day.
Don’t let the Twin Towers steal all the attention; nestled in between the two is the world-renowned Dewan Filharmonik Petronas concert hall. The 880-seat concert hall hosts a variety of classical music shows.
Constructed in 1994, the Menara KL tower is another must-see structure. It’s 421 meters high, with a viewing deck that provides the best view of the city down below and across to the Petronas Towers.
A gorgeously stylistic building that features Moorish-style and design is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Originally built for the administration of colonial British in 1897, this building now serves as the communications and culture offices of Malaysia.
Batu Caves
The Batu Cave’s limestone hill is over 400 million years old, and is situated about 11km north from the city. Visitors are greeted by a tall golden statue, a depiction of Lord Murugan – god of war in the Hindu faith. To which the holy shrine is dedicated to.
Three main caves and a series of smaller ones can be found inside the hills. A series of temples can be found inside the caves that hosts a variety of idols, paintings, and statues. Some temples are more than a decade old. The sanctity of the Batu caves can’t be denied by visitors.
During the Thaipusam festival, usually at the end of January or beginning of February, hundreds of Hindus travel to the caves to pray.
Kuala Selangor
It's only a one hour drive from KL to the quaint fishing village of Kuala Selangor. During the day you can visit historical sights, like the Seven Wells and Royal Mausoleum. Signature clam and cockle dishes are prepared by local restaurant owners, as fresh as can be. If you’re lucky you might spot some Silvery Lutungs monkeys crossing streets.
The village is most beautiful at night, as you can spot some fireflies dancing over the waters. At the Kampung Kuantan Firefly Park you’ll be able to take a sunset boat ride to enjoy the village’s surroundings from the river.
Pulau Ketam Island
Pulau Ketam is only a short 45-minute drive from the city. Alternatively, you can grab a ferry from Port Klan at an affordable price. The island, also known as Crab Island, has much to offer.
It’s most popularly known for its muddy grounds in which small crabs scurry around during low tide. Here you'll find quaint little wooden and colorful huts built on stilts above the waters. It’s amazing to see local schools, shops, and hospitals situated within these little buildings. The stilt houses are well supported by concrete dykes, but looks like they might fall over at any time.
While you’re on the island you can rent a bike and wander around freely. You’ll spot a variety of traditional Chinese temples. Don’t forget to taste a locally-sourced crab dish while you’re there.
Taman Negara National Park
One of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests is situated close to Kuala Lumpur. While it's not so easy to get there, if you’re a nature lover the ride will be well worth it. The gorgeous natural forest is more than 130 million years old.
Visitors can walk across the world’s longest canopy walkway, suspended 530 meters long at 40 meters high. You can also climb the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia, go fishing, river rafting, or caving, and observe luscious wildlife. Consider also taking some time to meet the indigenous villagers of Orang Asli. The green surroundings and untouched beauty of Taman Negara are indescribably picturesque.
Conclusion
Apart from short visits to local city attractions like the Chinese market, Jalan Alor, Central Market, and the Perdana Botanical Gardens, you can go to any of the above-mentioned attractions to explore Malaysian life outside of the city. The city and all surrounding areas provide priceless moments and countless photo opportunities.
You wouldn’t expect anything less from a city that has been named as UNESCO’s 2020 World Book Capital and one of the New Seven Wonders Cities. Whether you are exploring the city streets or the nearby spots, Kuala Lumpur is definitely a city worth visiting.