Kuala Lumpur: Heartbeat of the Nation
[Photo Gallery]

The city of Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is better known, the heartbeat of the nation buzzes with vitality. This vibrant city is the centre of entertainment, shopping, commerce, culture and most activities of import to the nation. A charming mix of old and new with towering skyscrapers sharing elbow space with charming, colonial structures Kuala Lumpur has a unique character. The people, a heady multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious blend, make the concoction of Kuala Lumpur even more striking. As the commercial hub Kuala Lumpur has excellent comprehensive offerings for business and MICE activities. Kuala Lumpur is truly the gateway to a world of action, excitement and discoveries with great shopping, dining, places of interest and entertainment opportunities. What more could a visitor ask for?

Geography
Kuala Lumpur which covers a total area of approximately 243 km² (95.18 sq mi) is an enclave within the state of Selangor. It is located on the central west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. It is approximately 35 km from the coast. It has a strategic location in the middle of Peninsular Malaysia's transportation network.

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in the nation, and has a estimated population of over 1.3mil comprising a mix of all races. A huge proportion of the population are migrants from other states who have now call KL their home. It is thus an annual phenomenon to see hordes of city dwellers heading out of the city in droves during festival celebrations returning to their 'kampung' (hometowns) to celebrate alongside their extended families.

History
The confluence of the Gombak and Klang rivers is where it all began. The settlement was first conceived around 1857 when Raja Abdullah, a member of the Selangor royal family, opened up the Klang Valley to tin prospectors. Chinese prospectors began prospecting in the Ampang area, establishing the beginnings of a thriving tin mine. Merchants and traders set up shop at the confluence providing basic provisions to the miners in return for some of the tin and thus, the early beginnings of a city. The name adopted for the settlement was 'Kuala Lumpur' which literally means 'muddy confluence'.

As the town grew, the British, decided to appoint a headman (Chinese Kapitan, or Captain of the Chinese) to administer the settlement and ensure law and order. The third Kapitan appointed was Yap Ah Loy, who oversaw the rise of Kuala Lumpur from a sleepy little mining town to become the foremost city of Selangor. While in the early years Kuala Lumpur was embroiled in civil conflicts due to the revenue from the mines within the royalty and for control of the settlement among the Chinese settlers. The conflicts ended with Yap Ah Loy and his backer Tengku Kudin emerging victorious. Kapitan Yap went on to guide Kuala Lumpur's growth into one of Selangor's largest townships and the centre of commerce. It was subsequently made the capital of Selangor in 1880. Around the same time Sir Frank Swettenham was appointed Resident of Selangor. He was responsible for making Kuala Lumpur the seat of administration of Selangor and ensuring continued progress after the death of Kapitan Yap. When the Federated Malay States were incorporated in 1896, Kuala Lumpur was made the capital.

During World War II Japanese forces captured and occupied Kuala Lumpur for 44 months. After the War and the Independence of the nation in 1957, Kuala Lumpur was made the capital of the Federation of Malaya and subsequently the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. On 1 February 1972 Kuala Lumpur seceded from Selangor and the city became a Federal Territory (Wilayah Persekutuan).

Getting There & About
Kuala Lumpur is accessible easily from within and outside Malaysia. The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) located 75km south of the city center is the main point of entry feeding into Kuala Lumpur. The Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) located close to KLIA is the base for budget airlines. From the KLIA terminal the KLIA speed rail service, the ERL (Express Rail Link), will get you to KL Sentral, the main transportation hub in Kuala Lumpur, within 30minutes. Alternatively there are ample taxi and bus services available at both terminals.

Regular bus and rail services are also available to and from KL all the way north to Thailand and to the south to Singapore. KL's main bus terminal, Puduraya, is just east of Chinatown. Buses also run out of KL Sentral(Central Station), also the hub of Malaysia's national railway system, the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM).

The public transport system within KL is speedy and comfortable. The city has a good network of expressways and rail network. Buses and city trains and the fast and frequent Light Rail (LRT) and monorail systems help you to get to your destination within the city center with minimum fuss. Commuter trains leave from KL Sentral and mostly service suburban areas. Taxis are another cheap and useful way to get around the city

The KL Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour Bus Service offers an efficient linkage between major attractions within the city. It covers a circular route that allows tourists to start the tour and end at the same location. The driver is assisted by a tour assistant on the bus which also has pre-recorded commentary in eight different languages to guide tourists through the major sights and attractions in the city.

Heritage Discovery
The historical district of Kuala Lumpur is roughly demarcated by the area around Jalan Raja, Jalan Tun Perak and the Klang River. Beautiful old colonial buildings and old world facades adorn the area. To maximise the experience it is best explored on foot.

Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square)
The Independence Square is where Malaysia’s Independence was proclaimed with the raising of the national flag and the lowering of the Union Jack on August 31, 1957. Previously a cricket pitch, the centre of attraction at the square today is the world’s tallest flagpole, which reaches over 1,000 metres.

Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Built in 1948, the gleaming copper domes, horseshoe arches, minarets and 130-meter clock tower of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building were designed by British architects A.C. Norman and A.B. Hubback. By far the most impressive and most photographed edifice around Merdeka Square the building design is a blend of Moghul, Moorish, Arab, and British neoclassical architecture. The building which initially served as the center of British colonial administration in Malaysia, today houses the Judicial Department on one end and Infokraf, a centre for Malaysian handicrafts, on the other. The road fronting the building is often the centre of National Day parades and other major celebrations.

Royal Selangor Club
The Royal Selangor Club which features mock Tudor architecture, once the favourite watering hole of British planters, remains a members-only social establishment. The club was nicknamed The Spotted Dog as there used to be two Dalmatians, belonging to the wife of one of the club founders, which used to be left at the entrance of the club.

St. Mary’s Church
Built in 1895 and renovated in the 1950s and the 1980s, the church is the city’s biggest Anglican cathedral. The pipe organ installed in the church was built in 1895 by Hendry Willis regarded by some as the greatest British organ builder in the nineteenth century. This organ wan completely renovated a few years ago. Located at Jalan Raja, it is just a 10-minute walk from the Royal Selangor Club.

Kuala Lumpur Library
The library occupies a two-storey colonial building that dates back to 1899. The ground floor houses the library proper while the first floor is taken up by a permanent exhibition of the city. It is located along Jalan Raja.

Dayabumi Complex
A spectacular white marble edifice which blends Islamic architecture with modern styling, the 35-storey Dayabumi Complex houses government offices and a shopping mall.

Masjid Negara (National Mosque)
The serenity of the mosque at Jalan Sultan Hishammuddin is enhanced by the surrounding beautiful garden that spans around five hectares. The magnificent structure of Masjid Negara features a 74-metre high minaret and an umbrella-shaped main dome with an 18-pointed star representing the 13 states of the country and their unification by the Five Pillars of Islam. There are 48 smaller domes within the courtyard.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Built in 1910, the former Kuala Lumpur Railway Station reflects an Arabian design with its turrets, arches and minarets. However, its glass and iron interior mimics old English train coaches.

National Monument
Dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives for their country the immense bronze structure depicts seven soldiers holding the Malaysian flag, each symbolising one of seven qualities of unity, strength, leadership, sacrifice, courage, suffering and vigilance. Designed by American sculptor Felix de Weldon, the 15.5-metre monument is surrounded by a moat filled with water lilies and fountains.

The ASEAN Sculpture Garden
Just below the National Monument is the Asean Sculpture Garden, a landscaped garden displaying a collection of prize-winning abstract sculptures by ASEAN artists.

Police Museum
This museum traces the development of law enforcement from the days of the Malaccan Sultanate in the 15th century till today. Ancient and modern weapons, uniforms and communications equipment are on display. The museum is located at Jalan Perdana.

National Museum
The National Museum is built in the style of a Malay palace, with an impressive facade of two large murals depicting scenes of the country's colourful past, and a prominent Minangkabau roof. The museum houses various galleries, each with its own theme. Outside on the grounds are locomotives, vintage cars and other modes of transport from the past. The highlights are its collection of keris (Malay dagger) and ceramics from the Ming Dynasty.

Muzium Bank Negara (Central Bank Museum)
This Bank Negara Money Museum at Jalan Sahabuddin, off Jalan Mahameru displays Malaysian currency from coins to notes, tokens and rare local and foreign coins.

Jade Museum
Jade - the precious gemstone known as the
‘stone of heaven’ has been cherished for millennia and is believed to possess mystical powers, immortality and invincibility. This is a place where visitors could indulge themselves with jade and be mesmerised by the sheer nature of these heavenly stones. A visit to the Jade Museum would definitely be a favourable experience and they also have an extensive range of souvenirs in jade which one could adorn themselves with or for gifts to their loved ones. We open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Royal Malaysian Armed Forces Museum
The Royal Malaysian Armed Forces Museum at Padang Tembak has pictures, paintings and exhibits of weapons, military vehicles, uniforms and decorations of the country’s military.

Parliament House
The 18-storey Parliament House – the seat of the country’s democracy – is at Jalan Parlimen. Parliamentary sessions may be viewed but only with prior permission from the Secretary to the Parliament. All visitors must be properly attired.

Arts & Cultural Exploration
Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex
Located at Jalan Conlay, this one-stop craft centre offers visitors a unique variety of craft-related activities and programmes and is a treasure trove of exciting souvenirs and unique handcrafts. The colourful array encompasses batik, songket, embroidery, beads, carvings, pottery baskets, pewter and brassware. The adjacent Craft Museum displays a variety of textile, ceramic, metal craft and weaved products. You can even produce your own batik here or see artists create their own masterpieces in the Artist Colony. Among the processes you can see here are pottery making, wood carving, silver-smiths, songket weaving, batik printing and boat making.

Muzium Telekom (Telekom Malaysia Museum)
Located at Jalan Raja Chulan, the museum is housed in a beautiful building of Greek architecture. It is divided into two sections: the historical and the modern galleries. The former displays some of the earliest telephonic equipment while the latter showcases current technologies and the future of telecommunications. Interactive displays with touch screen monitors provide an interesting and educational experience.

Masjid Jamek (Jamek Mosque)
Founded in 1909, Masjid Jamek is situated at the confluence of the historically significant Gombak and Klang rivers. Designed by A.B. Hubbock, the mosque typifies North Indian Islamic architecture at its finest. It has three domes surmounting the prayer hall with a 21.3m high central dome. At the cornersare two red and white striped minarets26.8m high. Its entrance is at Jalan Tun Perak and is a must-visit for heritage building lovers.

Biomedical Museum
The Institute of Medical Research (IMR) was founded in 1900 as the Pathological Institute and has a long and illustrious history of conducting innovative biomedical research. The museum houses several unique items that would satisfy even the most jaded of visitors. These include bygone laboratory equipment and various pathological specimens. It also showcases some of the oldest and best collections of both dry specimens of small mammals and wet, preserved specimens of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The museum is located next to Hospital Kuala Lumpur at Jalan Pahang.

Islamic Arts Museum
The Islamic Arts Museum located in Jln Lembah Perdana is a spacious, dazzling white building with Islamic architectural features. It houses an extensive collection of muslim treasures which include an impressive collection of Islamic texts, manuscripts, porcelain, objects d’art, weapons and Chinese Muslim calligraphy. Replicas of famous mosques in the world are among its main attractions.

Museum of Asian Arts
Set up in 1973, the museum is situated in the campus grounds of University Malaya, one of the most illustrious institutions of higher learning. Exhibits displayed here are local and Asian art objects comprising sculptures, textiles, woodcarvings and ceramics of Islamic and Malay origin.

Royal Selangor Pewter
Visitors to Malaysia should not miss the opportunity to visit the Royal Selangor pewter factory in Kuala Lumpur. What began as a cottage industry in 1885 has now become one of Malaysia’s most famous exports and visitors now have the chance to experience this industry first-hand.

Located in Setapak, just 20 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur city centre, the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is an award-winning destination which offers a fun and an educational visit.

Apart from learning about the history of tin and pewter through interactive exhibits and seeing how pewter is made at the factory, visitors can also enrol in the
‘School of Hard Knocks’ pewtersmithing workshop where they can create their own one-off masterpieces in pewter with a certificate of authentication. A nominal fee is charged.

Jalan Chow Kit
Along Jalan Chow Kit which in the past was the shopping haven of the city you cannot help but be mesmerised by the cacophony of sights and sounds with a thriving wet market, food stalls and places of worship all crammed within a compact, vibrant area.

The famous Chow Kit wet Market, a labyrinth of stalls that sell vegetables, meats, seafood and fruits, is predominantly occupied by Malay traders. Malay rock music blasts from amplifiers of CD retailers; the shouts of traders fill the air; housewives bustle about with baskets on their arms, and hungry customers feast on local delicacies. An experience not to be missed!

Jalan Masjid India
KL’s Little India, where everything Indian from saris, cheroots, bangles, earthenware pots and jasmine garlands and spicy Indian restaurants can be found in abundance is along Jalan Masjid India. This is also the place to take in blaring Indian music and songs, and eateries and hawkers peddling typical North and South Indian delicacies. These days it is also dominated by Malay traders trading in local and Indonesian garments, medicines and other popular items.

Lorong Tuanku Abdul Rahman
Every Saturday evening, this lane is transformed into a pedestrian mall with stalls selling plastic products, leather goods, kitchenware, handicrafts and snacks. Blind buskers and traditional medicine peddlers are also part of the attraction here.

Petaling Street (Chainatown)
A must for everyone visiting KL is KL’s Chinatown, known as Chee Cheong Kai in Chinese. Famous for grilled fish, roasted duck and porridge, the street bustle with activity every evening when countless stalls do roaring trade in cheap ‘genuine’ imitation clothes, sunglasses, watches, shoes and fruits. During the day, Petaling Street is more sober as Chinese pharmacies dispense traditional Chinese medication while other retailers offer dried salted fish, Chinese tea leaves, Taoist deities, textiles, Chinese earthenware and rattan crafts and caskets.

Chiness Culture Street
The centre of Chinese culture, Jalan Raja Balai Polis is home to everything oriental - old and new - like music, teahouses that serve the beverage in dainty chinese teapots and cups, restaurants that spill out onto the roadway at night serving great Chinese food and Chinese bookstores with a wide range of offerings.

Central Market
This former wet market is a must-visit for souvenir hunters. Countless stalls occupy this two-storey building of Art Deco architecture. They offer antiques and trinkets, glass figurines, key rings, sunglasses and local delicacies. Central Market is constantly filled with activities with artists sketching portraits, fortune-tellers shuffling tarot cards, craftsmen etching on copper and women weaving baskets from Pandanus leaves as regular cultural performances. It is located at Jalan Hang Lekir.

Chan See Shu Yuen Temple
At the Southern end of Petaling Street is the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple, which is adorned with paintings of dragons, deities and ceramic sculptures of mythical creatures. It was built in 1906.

Thean Hou Temple
Nestled on a hill off Jalan Syed Putra, the Thean Hou Temple is a picturesque Chinese temple with impressive architecture. It is a popular backdrop for wedding photographs and film shootings. Souvenir stalls and a vegetarian restaurant are housed in the complex. An excellent view of the city can be enjoyed from the pagoda.

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
This Hindu temple ranks as one of the most ornate in the country with intricate images of Hindu deities adorning the gate tower, while Italian and Spanish tiles adorn the floor and walls. A silver chariot that is paraded during Thaipusam is kept in a building next to the temple. Inside, the status of Lord Subramaniam stands, embellished with precious stones.

National Art Galerry
Located at Jalan Temerloh the National Art Gallery stands on a 5.67ha site next to the Istana Budaya and the National Library. The architecture of the gallery is unique incorporating traditional Malay and contemporary design. The gallery houses a creative centre, a sculpture garden, a library, art restoration space, photography and graphic studios, an auditorium and a bookshop.

Istana Budaya
Istana Budaya, the National Theatre along Jalan Tun Razak frequently features musical, cultural and dance performances by both local and foreign artistes. The architectural design of the theatre is based on Malay culture with the base taking the shape of a floating traditional Malay kite and the layout of the building following the pattern of a typical Malay house. Istana Budaya also has four adjustable stages, which are suitable for staging performances in various forms. The theatre can accommodate 1,469 persons. Istana Budaya is considered by many to be at par with the Royal Albert Hall in London.

Istana Negara
The majestic Istana Negara which dominates Jalan Istana is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (His Majesty the King of Malaysia). While the palace, is itself is not open to the public visitors can call on the unwavering, handsomely dressed guards who stand guard at the palace’s main gate.

Geleri Petronas
Galeri Petronas is a modern, contemporary art gallery situated at Level 3, Suria KLCC, Malaysia’s premier shopping destination in PETRONAS Twin Towers. Galeri Petronas was established in 1993 by PETRONAS, Malaysia’s national oil company, to support the development of arts in Malaysia, by providing a versatile, world-class art gallery for Malaysian and foreign artists to display their works. With numerous local and international exhibitions, Galeri Petronas aims to make art accessible, enjoyable and engaging to the public and will continue to enthral audiences with exciting exhibitions and public programmes. Galeri Petronas is open to the public from 10.00 am – 8.00pm everyday except Monday and admission is FREE.

Come and engage your visual senses at Galeri Petronas, Level 3, Suria KLCC.

Great City Destinations
Petronas Twin Towers
Designed by the renowned Cesar Pelli and completed in 1996 the Petronas Twin Towers is among the tallest buildings in the world. The two 88 storey towers, which stand at 452 metres, meet in mid air on the 41st and 42nd levels via a double deck skybridge. Standing on the skybridge you get an amazing view of the city and also the heady sensation of being suspended in mid air high above the heart of the city!

KLCC Park
Spread over 20 ha, the KLCC Park is a favourite leisure spot for families and city dwellers. Beautifully landscaped its facilities include an artificial lake with majestic water fountains, a wading pool, children’s playgrounds, jogging track, shelters, benches and more than 1,700 trees. The park is part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC).

Petrosains, The Discovery Centre
Petrosains, The Discovery Centre is an interactive science discovery centre for people of all ages. Engaging visitors through sight, sound, touch and smell it provides an entertaining introduction to science. Among the attractions are the unique Dark Ride, the adventure games, travelling back to the age of the dinosaurs, experiencing earthquakes and even getting to experience life on a oil platform. The latest mini exhibition SPACE allows visitors to experience what it would be like to be an astronaut and to explore the moon, other planets and galaxies. The centre is located on the fourth level of Suria KLCC. Visit us at petrosains.com.my.

Aquaria KLCC
Aquaria KLCC offers the ultimate underwater adventure in the middle of the city. With over 5,000 exhibits, 150 different marine species, touch pool encounters and fish feeding it provides a stimulating and fascinating experience. At Aquaria KLCC, you can discover what it is like to drift through tropical rainforests, wade through shallow waters as stingrays slip and glide by and find out what it’s like to be swimming side by side with a Shark.

KL Convention Centre
Opened in early 2005, the KL Convention Centre is located right alongside the Petronas Twin Towers and the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, facing the park. Equipped with latest state of the art facilities it is not surprising that a great many major national and international events are held here.

Menara Kuala Lumpur (KL Tower)
The majestic Menara Kuala Lumpur in the capital city is the world’s fourth tallest telecommunication towers and the tallest building in Southeast Asia. Menara Kuala Lumpur will welcome you with a host of attractions, from breathtaking views to top-class facilities, activities and events. Standing at 421m atop Bukit Nanas, it invites you to ‘Come and touch the sky’. Ideal for a bird’s eye view of the capital city, the observation deck 276m up lets you witness the metropolitan pulse of Kuala Lumpur, the bustling streets and glowing city lights.

Dining experience at the Towers ranges from humble fare at the base terrace to fine dining at the revolving restaurant 262m above ground level. Shopping stints may be enjoyed at duty-free outlets. Surrounded by the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, the Menara Kuala Lumpur is a prime example of how balance between development and conservation of the environment can be effectively achieved.

Malaysian Tourism Centre
Formerly known as MATIC, the Malaysian Tourism Centre (MTC) is a one stop resource centre for tourists. The building is an important historical landmark as it served as the military base of the British and also as the Headquarters of the Japanese Army during World War II. At the Centre you can book package tours, purchase bus tickets, pick up free brochures and enjoy delicious local cuisine at the Saloma Theatre Restaurant. The centre is centrally located near the junction of Jalan Ampang and Jalan Sultan Ismail.

Lake Gardens
A green lung of the city, Lake Garden (Taman Tasik Perdana) is a popular spot for sightseeing, evening strolls and other recreational activities. Spanning around 100 ha, it was completed in 1890 is built around an artificial lake and encompasses undulating greenery interspersed with flowering shrubs, shady trees and gardens. The Panggung Anniversary located in the grounds is a regular venue for musical and cultural performances. There is also a children's playground, jogging tracks, exercise stations, rowing boats and even foot reflexology paths

Orchid and Hibicus Gardens
The Kuala Lumpur Orchid Garden located within Lake Garden, houses more than 800 species of orchids. Nearby is the Hibiscus Garden with more than 500 varieties of the National Flower grown here.

Deer and Bird Parks
A favourite with children, the Deer Park is a valley-like enclosure where deer, fawns and does roam freely. The Bird Park is a massive aviary covering about three hectares and is home to more than 2,000 birds from over 200 species.

Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm
The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm is practically a miniature jungle where more than 3,000 butterflies flit about. There is also an insect museum and a souvenir shop.

Lake Titiwangsa
Boating facilities, jogging tracks, exercise stations and a traffic playground are found in this sculptured garden with beautiful lakes. A paddock has ponies for hire and also offers horse-cart rides. Lake Titiwangsa is located at Jalan Kuantan.

A special attraction at the park is the Eye on Malaysia, the largest ‘observation wheel’ in the world, similar to the London eye. The 60 metre high structure was set up in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2007. The giant ferris wheel allows you to experience a 360-degree panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur during a 12-minute ride, with magnificent views of Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings. It has a total of 42 gondolas which can each carry eight persons.

National Zoo
Situated 12 km from the city along Jalan Ulu Kelang, the National Zoo covers more than 60 ha and houses more than 4,000 animals. The aquarium in the zoo has an interesting collection of freshwater and saltwater fish, including exotic marine life.

Sentul Park Koi Centre
Those who want to view and learn more about the koi and enjoy themselves in zen like surroundings will feel at home at the Sentul Park Koi Centre. The centre which is passionate about imparting a wholesome culture that goes beyond just the sales of koi is spread over 2 acres. The Japanese-inspired centre boasts a resource and knowledge facility, an infirmary, a Japanese restaurant, retail and quarantine ponds, a large 700,000-litre pond, and a smaller pond that houses the Malaysian Prime Minister’s special collection. The Koi Centre is open daily from 9am to 8.30pm. Admission is free.

The National Planetarium
Overlooking Lake Gardens from a hillock, the National Planetarium houses a space science theatre, space science and astronomy exhibits, a resource centre, a viewing gallery and several other facilities is indicative of Malaysia's efforts to create a scientifically and technologically-inclined society. You can catch different movies at the Space Theater or experience what an astronaut feels at zero gravity in the Shuttle Spaceball. The working observatory here is equipped with a 14 inch telescope.

National Science Centre
The National Science Centre, an institution of informal learning, was entrusted with the mandate to promote awareness, appreciation, interest and understanding of Science and Technology. The Centre houses many exhibits designed to stimulate, excite and encourage visitors to take an active interest in Science and Technology. Featuring a geodesic dome as a roof, the National Science Centre features nine galleries that house exhibits on different scientific themes. The Centre is located at Jalan Bukit Kiara.

Cool Retreats
Genting Highlands Resort
About 45 minutes away from the heart of the city is the cool, and vibrant Genting Highlands billed as the City of Entertainment. Genting Highlands features a family-oriented theme park, internationally-billed shows and live performances, a golf course, an equestrian course, and the country's only licensed casinos. There are regular bus services operating from major destination points in Kuala Lumpur to the highlands and you can also opt to travel to the cable-car station midway and continue your journey on the swift cable-car which will give you a great view of the highlands as it climbs uphill.

Eco-Adventures
Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve
The Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve is located in the heart of the city. The 10.5ha site, a gazetted Forest Reserve, is a pristine jungle reserve with a rich variety of flora and fauna. The approximately hour’s leisurely walk through the reserve can be a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.

Culinary Delights
Kuala Lumpur offers the country's best selection of foreign and local cuisines. With its many nationalities and different ethnic groups, this capital city serves up an extensive diverse array of cuisines to suit every taste.

The best places to sample local dishes are at the many hawker stalls scattered throughout the city where variety is the norm. Most of these are located outdoors, but they are also found indoors particularly in shopping centers, such as Central Market, Lot 10, Suria KLCC and others. Areas where you can sample local favourites while soaking in a truly local ambience is quite varied. The Chow Kit area offers you a wide variety of Malay influenced cuisine in the day and more so at night. Jalan Alor which is parallel to Jalan Bukit Bintang, a popular shopping area, is where you will find a wealth of hawker stalls serving mainly Chinese cuisine, similarly in the Petaling Street or Chinatown area. Jalan Masjid India on the other hand offers a combination of Malay and Indian influenced cuisine in both stalls and small cosy restaurants. Damansara Uptown, Hartamas and Subang are areas where you find a combination of cuisines in stall and restaurant like establishments.

Fine dining is also available at most hotels and around the vicinity of Jalan Ampang/Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bangsar, Heritage Row, Hartamas, Damansara, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail and other locations in the city. A prominent venue to check out is One Bangsar. Imagine a whole new avenue in gastronomic adventure and culinary art. A single place ot dine-in comfortably. A setting amidst an environment so elegant without having to travel the miles, where patrons will be spoilt for choice by the wide array of food and beverage from all corners of the world. A single place that calls uniqueness in terms of decoration, style and sophistication its norm and gastronomy its passion in an affordable manner. A melting pot of the world’s finest cuisines such as Oriental Seafood, Northern Indian, Japanese, Malay, Vietnamese, Thai, French, Mediterranean, Italian and a wine bistro in one single place, in One Bangsar.

Typical Malay dishes to savour include the nasi lemak i.e.fragrant rice with a potpourri of additions, such as egg, dried anchovies, peanuts and vegetables, nasi goring i.e. fried rice and of course the famous Satay i.e. skewered chicken or beef pieces cooked over hot coals and served with a spicy peanut sauce. A popular Chinese specialty is Chicken Rice which consists of chopped chicken pieces served with fragrant rice accompanied by spicy chilli and garlic sauce on the side. Equally popular is fried kway teow –flat noodles stir fried with spicy black bean sauce, egg, bean sprouts and shrimps or mussels. Fish Head Curry a popular dish among locals comes in two varieties i.e. the Chinese version as well as the ‘Mamak’ or Indian Muslim version – it essentially consists of huge fish head pieces cooked in spicy sauce served together with rice.

For Indian specialties, one of the local favourites enjoyed by all is roti canai - fried flaky pancake served with lentils and curries and thosai – sourish fried pancakes served with coconut chutney and curry. The banana leaf meal is also a hot favourite among locals where rice and an assortment of vegetables are served on a banana leaf and can be accompanied by meat, fish and other dishes of your choice.

Cuisine available in Kuala Lumpur is by no means limited to local specialities. If you would like to sample food from some of the neighbouring countries, you will find many selections available. Thai food is a favourite among locals with the spicy Thai ‘Tom Yam’ soup being one of the ‘hot’ favourites. These can be found both among hawker stalls as well as 5 star restaurants Japanese food has also gained a foothold and availability ranges from fine dining venues to affordable ‘fast food’ chains. Korean, Vietnamese, Taiwanese and other Asian food choices are also widely available. Meanwhile, for those with a penchant for western cuisine, the range of choices is equally endless. Italian food is among the more commonly available but you can also find French, Mediterranean, Spanish, American and Mexican among others. While more common in hotels and restaurants you can also find the range within some stall like establishments. Food from the Middle east is also now very popular in the city.

Great Outdoors
Desa Waterpark
This is the only water-themed park within the city. It has Asia’s longest uphill water coaster, called ‘Thunderbolt’ and is great for families. Only 15 minutes from the city centre, it is located near the residential area of Taman Desa, off the Sungei Besi highway tollbooth.

Bukit Jalil Stadium
Not far at the fringes of the city centre is the Bukit Jalil Stadium, purpose built for the 1998 Commonwealth games. Today it plays host to a multitude of sporting and non-sports related events. The comprehensive complex is also worth a visit to relax and enjoy its beauty.

Golf
Kuala Lumpur has a wide array of golf clubs and driving range facilities which cater to golfing enthusiasts. Here you can find established old clubs steeped in tradition as well as spanking new ones. All have their own unique challenges with interesting obstacles and terrains.

The Royal Selangor Golf Club also know as RSGC, is one of Malaysia’s most well-known and oldest golf clubs. Other premier clubs around the city include the Saujana Golf and Country Club, the Bukit Jalil golf & Country Resort, Kelab Golf Sentul Raya, Bukit Unggul Country Club, Glenmarie Golf & Country Club and Kota Permai Golf & Country Club.

Entertainment & Shopping
Shopping
Shopping in the city of Kuala Lumpur offers variety, value and convenience with a great range of shopping establishments catering for every taste and budget. Visitors will be able to find modern air-conditioned shopping malls, departmental stores, duty free shops, hypermarkets and night markets all over the city.

The Golden Triangle, an area bounded by Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Imbi, has the best shopping complexes in the city and they are all well within walking distance of each other.

Sungei Wang Plaza
Sungei Wang is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Kuala Lumpur. It is a bustling hive of activity with hundreds of small traders selling everything from shoes to shawls, electronic items to reproduction fashion items. Easily accessible and strategically located it is the focus of foreign tourists and locals who swarm the centre to experience Sungei Wang Plaza’s assurance of “For All Kinds of Everything”.

Bukit Bintang Plaza (BB Plaza)
Adjacent to Sungei Wang Plaza, BB Plaza is anchored by retail giant Metrojaya. Similar to Sungei Wang Plaza, it houses numerous stores selling a wide range from electrical products, clothes, books and cameras.

Low Yat Plaza
Low Yat Plaza, located just beside Sungei Wang Plaza and at the rear of Federal Hotel, is the place to head for your IT and multi-media needs. The one stop centre also has retail shops selling clothes, shoes and beauty products.

Starhill
Adjacent to the five-star JW Marriott Hotel is the Starhill centre which features exclusive designer branded items. It also features exclusive dining establishments at the lower levels within an elegant and soothing ambience..

KL Plaza
Next to Starhill is KL Plaza, which houses numerous high-end watch shops selling exclusive timepieces, clothing and fashion items. The famous Planet Hollywood is located here as are other popular eateries and al fresco cafés.

Pavilion
Opened in September 2007, the Pavilion is one of the latest retail centres in the city. With over 1.3 million sq ft of retail space it houses some of the world's most prestigious retail brands. The unique 7-storey shopping center is part of a larger world-class, mixed-use urban development which includes luxurious residential towers, a boutique hotels and commercial space.
 
Lot 10
Lot 10, is located next to KL Plaza and across the road from Sungei Wang Plaza to which it is linked via an overhead bridge. The anchor tenant here is Isetan, while on the Prestige Floor boutiques retail the latest haute couture from the fashion capitals of the world.

Maju Junction Mall
This five-level shopping mall is situated at the crossroads of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Targeting office workers and younger customers as well as families, Maju Junction was conceptualised for affordable, modern and stylish shopping. It houses lifestyle, convenience and specialty outlets including leading labels for fashion apparel, as well as for gifts and other items. The mall also has outlets featuring menswear, batik apparel, baby products, beauty and hair care services, footwear, watches and jewelleries, toys, fitness equipment, an art gallery and an archery centre. A major Supermarket outlet provides for your other personal and household needs.   If you want an exciting shopping experience then try out Souk-at-TAR, which is a bazaar that combines the best of old and the new by offering hard-to-resist bargains.

Besides providing enjoyable shopping, Maju Junction provides a wide selection of food and beverages. Maju Junction is also the first mall to offer visitors the convenience of a full-fledged concierge service similar to that in a 5-star hotel. The concierge facility provides airline ticketing, mailing, faxing, photocopying, restaurant reservations and other useful services.   The trendy Maju Junction is a great choice for affordable, modern and stylish shopping and dining. It is also easily accessible as the LRT and Monorail train stations are within easy walking distance and buses and taxis are plentiful.

The Mall
The Mall is a six-floor shopping centre located at Jalan Putra across the Putra World Trade Centre and Pan Pacific Hotel. It features a wide range of apparel, electronics and other items and also a supermarket on the ground level. It is also easy to reach as a Star LRT (Light Rail Transit) system station is here.

Mid Valley Mega Mall
Mid Valley is dubbed the largest retail, food and entertainment centre in Asia. Located between Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya at Jalan Syed Putera, the shopping arcade is part of an integrated development which includes commercial, retail and hospitality components. Mid Valley houses three anchor tenants - Carrefour, Jusco and Metrojaya. There is also a gigantic 18-screen Cineplex, Malaysia’s biggest computer centre, a Gym and the flagship MPH bookstore in addition to a myriad of other stores and F&B establishments. For those wishing to take public transport, there’s an LRT Station right outside and it is also along the path of the KTM commuter.

The Gardens
The Gardens is a shopping centre which opened in September, 2007. Located within the Mid Valley City area it features high end stores and avant garde shops. Exclusive fine dining is also available at the Roof Garden.

Suria KLCC
Located at the base of the Petronas Twin Towers, this chic shopping venue features outlets offering a wide range of fashion and other items particularly featuring international brands. This is also a venue for entertainment with the Cineplex, Discovery Science Centre and even an Art Gallery. To top off your evening you could try the international F&B outlets on the upper levels or the al fresco ones surrounding the dancing fountain. Suria KLCC offers you a great venue for shopping, dining and entertainment.

Berjaya Times Square
The Berjaya Times Square which is located close to Bintang Walk is a destination with a difference. Berjaya Times Square which has a large indoor theme park offers thrilling rides such as the 800-metre long roller coaster and also Malaysia’s first ever IMAX 3D and 2D theatres. It also features a large shopping area and an extremely wide selection of cuisine, retail outlets, 65 cafés, bistros, restaurants and fast food stations, just about something for everyone.

Shopping in Bangsar
In addition to its being a nightlife hotspot the suburban area of Bangsar also has great chic shopping opportunities. A string of high street style shopping venues can be found around the town centre. Most are very bohemian and offer a great variety for fashionistas. For more regular shopping there is the Bangsar Shopping Centre, a favourite both among expatriates and locals. It has a great selection of speciality stores, a supermarket as well as plenty of cafes and restaurants. The refurbished Bangsar Village also has an exciting range of offerings.

Flea Market Craze
Flea markets are currently a craze among shoppers in the city. It is now a hip way to spend your weekend, browsing for bargains among offerings of exotic jewellery, trendy home deco items, old books and magazines, chic fashion items from sources which ranges from India, the Middle East, Thailand, Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Nepal and others. Manned by both locals and expatriates, you can pick up great bargains and also have the opportunity to meet interesting and sometimes eccentric individuals. Among the popular venues are the Bangsar Shopping Centre Saturday Flea Market, Mont Kiara Flea Market as well as the Bukit Bintang Carnival Flea Market.

Nightlife
With so many different cultures blending together, nightlife in Kuala Lumpur is anything but dull. With one of the liveliest night scenes in the region, Kuala Lumpur abounds with choices of cool and happening nightspots, whether it is to sip wine in elegant surroundings, guzzle beer in a smoky pub, drink coffee/tea, dance or belt out the latest hits in a karaoke centre.

For more relaxed evenings, the buzzing Jalan Pinang/Yap Kwan Seng/Jalan P Ramlee/Jalan Sultan Ismail zone is the place to be in the centre of town. Located in the midst of the Golden triangle it is the hotspot among the yuppie crowd. A strong contender is the Bangsar area in the city fringe with its streets teeming with bars and restaurants. It is the place to see and be seen both among the yuppies as well as the expatriate crowd.

The Heritage Row comprises a row of refurbished colonial style shophouses which have been converted to gourmet restaurants and trendy bares. It is a swanky nightlife zone frequented by the well heeled. Other venues which offer great nightlife opportunities include the Jalan Ampang/Jalan Tun Razak, and Jalan Bukit Bintang areas, which offer a wide assortment ranging from the elegant, glitzy, culturally specific to the vibrant yuppie haunts of Sri Hartamas and Mont Kiara.

If however, your preference is for a quiet drink at a ‘mamak’ stall, this can be found at every nook and corner around KL, whether among the more elegant nightspots or the more modest outlets. These will be frequented both by those in battered up automobiles to those in BMWs or Benzs.

While in KL you should also check out the growing KL arts scene. The Petronas Philharmonic Hall at the KLCC with its great acoustics makes watching the world class musical performances featured here is a real treat. The National Theatre along Jalan Tun Razak frequently feature musical and dance performances by both local and foreign artistes.The KL Pac Arts Centre in Sentul and the Actor’s Studio in Bangsar are more well known for their theatre performances. Usually featuring local artistes they give you an insight into Malaysian life and humour. For more traditional art forms there is the open air Sutra theatre in Titiwangsa which features traditional and contemporary musical and dance performances. The open air theatre offers a rare experience away from the formality and confines of a regular stage.

The Malaysia Flora Fest 2008 is scheduled to be between mid July to early August.
The Malaysia Flora Fest which will be held in many parts of the country will also feature the Flora Run aptly called Florathon taking off from the Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur. Other events will be held mainly in PUtra jaya with Floral Parades and such.

Another interesting event to be held in KL in 2008 is the KL Samrah Festival 2008. The event is to showcase Arabian music and concerts over at Bintang Walk to welcome the arrival of Middle Eastern tourists to Malaysia. It is expected to be held over four weekends.

The KL International Buskers’ Festival in another interesting event scheduled to be held in the city. Performers from various countries are expected to liven up the town with their diverse antics. It is scheduled for December 2008.

Health & Beauty
For those seeking health care and cosmetic treatments Kuala Lumpur is home to many of the best hospitals in the world for a wide variety of treatments. The standard of health care in Malaysia is moderated by the MS ISO9002 certification and accreditation by the Malaysian Medical Society for Quality. All private medical centres need to be approved and licensed by the Ministry of Health to operate. Most are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, with a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic resources operated by highly-qualified medical professionals. Most offer extremely comfortable to luxurious private rooms and suites while some even offer butler or personal nurse services. The best part of having your health and beauty needs attended to here is the great locations you get to convalesce in during and after your treatment.

While almost all major hotels in KL offer spa treatments you can also find specialized spa centres where you will be treated to special Balinese, Indian, Western, Chinese or a combination of treatments. Almost all have specially designed spa and equipment and attractive packages for various budgets. The soothing massages, manicures, pedicures and other treatments provide the perfect relaxing balm after a hard day of active sightseeing !

Tourist Information Centre

Kuala Lumpur Tourist Information Centre
Jalan Raja
Kuala Lumpur 50050 Malaysia
Tel: 60 3 2693 6664

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin
50050 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603-274-6063

Level 2, Menara Dato' Onn
Putra World Trade Centre
45 Jalan Tun Ismail
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603-441-1295

Malaysia Tourist Information Complex (MATIC)
109 Jalan Ampang
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603-242-3929