| Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of the Federation
of Malaysia, is centrally located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
Covering an area of 243 sq. km (94 square miles), it lies approximately
35 km from the coast. Kuala Lumpur was conferred city
status on February 1, 1972 and declared as a Federal Territory in 1974.
From its modest beginnings as a small settlement at the confluence of
the Klang and Gombak rivers, Kuala Lumpur developed
into a thriving center for the tin trade in the 1880's. Today the city
has evolved into a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a fascinating
skyline of old world pre-war edifices dominated by modern and sophisticated
skyscrapers. Despite its urban environment, Kuala Lumpur
retains the ambience of a garden city with its attractive landscaping,
lush greenery and extensive public parks.
 Travellers
will find Kuala Lumpur a fascinating destination for
sight-seeing, culture, shopping, recreation or nightlife. The city possesses
a unique charm and appeal of its own.
Shopping buffs will be delighted to discover a host of affordable and
exciting buys at both modern shopping malls or open air bazaars.
A tempting variety of delectable local and foreign cuisine can be enjoyed
at any time of the day and night. Explore the numerous food courts,
fine restaurants and other eateries to discover the gastronomic delights
of the city.
Getting to Kuala Lumpur is easy with over 40 international
airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, serving the city's new state-of-the
art KL International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang. Domestic routes are served
by Air Asia, Pelangi Air, Singapore Airlines and Royal Brunei Airlines,
in addition to Malaysia Airlines.
 Malaysia
is also accessible overland from Thailand in the North, and Singapore
in the South, via Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) which connects most
of the principal towns in Peninsular Malaysia.
By sea, the main port-of-call for cruise liners to Malaysia is Port
Klang, situated 41 km from KL.
The city's strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia, along
with excellent supporting infrastructure, has made it a popular venue
for international events, conventions and exhibitions.
Place
of Interested
Biomedical Museum, Jalan Pahang
 The
biomedical Museum of the Institute of Medical Research was established
in 1983. The museum records and displays medical research materials
undertaken by the institute since its inception in 1900.
It showcases materials concerning public health problems in the country,
current research activities and those related to teaching, training
and research.
Collections in the museum include Malaysian fauna of medical significance
such as mammals, reptiles, insects and parasites.
Open : Monday to Friday from 7.30 am to 4.45 pm.
It closes at 12.15 - 2.45 pm on Fridays for prayer. Saturday closed.
Central Market
 This
pre-war building was the principal wet market for Kuala Lumpur
in the early years. It was extensively renovated in the 1980's and turned
into an arts and cultural centre.
It has become the place for local artists to demonstrate their skills
and display their work. There are numerous shops and stalls which sell
bric-a-brac, antiques, souvenirs, handicrafts and Asian artefacts.
An open air stage serves as the regular venue for traditional and contemporary
dances as well as musical concerts.
During the weekends, at 7.30 pm, cultural performances
are held. Admission : Free
Craft Complex
There are two craft centres in Malaysia. One is located in Kuala
Lumpur and the other in Langkawi. Known as Kompleks Kraf, the
Malaysian handicrafts showroom act as a 'One Stop Centre' for tourists
to purchase local souvenirs. The craft complex in Kuala Lumpur
is a stone throw's away from Bukit Bintang area, a famous shopping district
in the city. Strategically located, the centre offers numerous souvenir
items that are uniquely Malaysian. The choices are abundance. You'll
get to choose ceramics, batik clothing, wooden ornaments and a lot more.
Dataran Merdeka
Facing the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is Dataran Merdeka
or Merdeka Square, an immaculately-turfed 8.2 hectare area of historical
interest. A 100 metre-high flagpole marks the spot where the Malayan
Flag was hoisted on August 31, 1957 signifying the independence of the
country from British rule. At the opposite end of the square is an inviting
spot where visitors can relax amid soothing rushing waters of fountains,
elegant colonnades and colourful beds of zinnias and marigolds. Beneath
the square is Plaza Putra, an underground food, leisure and entertainment
complex.
Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS
Malaysia's latest classical music orchestra hall and the home of
Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra. It is the showcase for moderm Malaysia's
interest in the arts and music. Although primary focus is on classical
, the artistic programme also include traditional Malaysian music. Located
at Kuala Lumpur city center (KLCC) the tallest building
in the world.
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
 The
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia located at Jalan Lembah Perdana houses
various themed galleries. Among the galleries found here is the Islamic
Architecture Gallery which showcases miniature replicas of renowned
buildings such as the Taj Mahal, Imam Ismail Albukhary mosque and museum
and the Amir Timur Mausoleum. Apart from this gallery is the Standard
Chartered Ottoman Room which displays objects from the reign of the
Ottoman Empire of Turkey and Syria.
In the Al-Quran and Manuscript Gallery is a collection of more than
200 rare Islamic manuscripts which include a 30-Judz' Al-Quran from
the Ming Dynasty.
Istana Budaya
Istana Budaya is situated at the junction of Jalan Tun Razak and
Jalan Kuantan. The building which is home to Malaysia's Panggung Negara
(National Theatre) is a 'lyrical theatre of the 21st century'. Its design
incorporates elements of the Malay culture with local interior finishing.
Istana Budaya is proud to be considered as the first theatre in Asia
to have the most advanced mechanism for stage performances. This accolade
places it in the top 10 of the most advanced theatre in the world and
at par with the Royal Albert Hall in London.
Istana Negara
 The
Istana Negara is the official residence of His Majesty, the Yang di
Pertuan Agong, the King of Malaysia. It is located on a hillock at Jalan
Istana, just outside the city center.
The extensive grounds is enhanced by immaculate lawns and colourful
gardens. The palace is also the venue for official functions and ceremonies.
Visitors can witness the changing of the guards daily.
Jalan Masjid India
Another colorful street of sidewalk artists, street traders and
shops. The street takes it name from the Indian Muslim mosque here.
Along this road are shops selling Indian brass oil lamps, silver tableware,
glass bangles and gold jewellery.
Komplex Budaya Kraf
This handicraft complex located at Jalan Conlay houses top names in
local handicrafts. Here, one can look out for chic batik outfit, ponder
over the variety of home decor items or delight in finding the perfect
gift to take back home.
On the ground floor of the complex, visitors can dabble in some paints
and wax to create their own batik pieces. At the far end of the its
landscaped grounds is the artists colony where one can watch artists
at work. Paintings are available for sale. The complex is equipped with
visitor facilities, including a restaurant.
Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens
KL's most popular park, located at Jalan Perdana, showcases harmony,
beauty and tranquility created by both man and nature. Built around
two lakes, the sprawling 91.6 hectares tropical garden is a pleasant
oasis within the city providing a cool and soothing ambience as one
walks through a vista of exotic blooms, luxuriant foliage, imposing
sculptures, creative theme parks and majestic-looking raintrees. Attractions
within the park are :
- Orchid Garden :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : Free (except on Sat, Sun and
Public Holidays)
- Hibiscus Garden :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : Free (except on Sat, Sun and
Public Holidays)
- Deer Park :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : Free
- Butterfly Park :
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (daily). Admission : RM 5 (adults), RM 1 (Children)
- Kuala Lumpur Bird Park :
Open : 9 am - 5 pm (daily). Admission : RM 3 (adults), RM 1 (Children)
- National Monument
- Asean Sculpture Garden
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
 Built
in 1910, the station is yet another heritage building that reflects
the influence of Moorish architecture. It was extensively renovated
in 1986 to provide air-conditioned comfort and modern facilities for
rail passengers.
From this station, passengers can travel to most cities and towns on
Peninsular Malaysia's west coast and to Tumpat on the east coast. There
are also train services to Singapore and Thailand.
Malaysia Tourist Information Complex (MTC)
Built in 1935 as the residence of Eu Tong Seng, a wealthy tin miner,
this historical landmark served as the war office of the British Army
and the headquarters of the Japanese Army during World War II.
It was also the venue for the first sitting of Malaysia's parliament
and the installation ceremonies of several kings of the country. It
was renovated in 1988 for its present use as a one-stop tourist information
complex.
The complex houses other facilities including an auditorium, a souvenir
shop and a restaurant.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm. Cultural performances are
held on Tue, Thu, Sat and Sun from 3.30 pm - 4.15 pm. Admission : RM
2
Masjid Jamek
It is located behind the Sultan Abdul Samad building right at the
tip of the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers where Kuala
Lumpur had its beginnings. The mosque was designed by a British
architect, A.B Hubbocks and was built in 1909. It is a stunning example
of Indian Muslim architecture with a distinguished onion-shaped domes,
arched Colonnades and shiny, cooling marble floors. Its red brick walls
is eye-catching. It is set in a peaceful surrounding of shady grove
of palm trees that forms a green protective border that seems to keep
tall and gigantic stone structures at bay.
Menara Kuala Lumpur
Situated atop Bukit Nanas in the vicinity of KL's hotel district,
this 421m high concrete tower is Asia's tallest and the fourth tallest
in the world. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from its
observation deck as well as the revolving restaurant. The tower also
serves as a transmission station for telecommunications, radio and television.
Open : Daily from 9 am - 10 pm. Admission : RM
8 (Adults), RM 3 (Child from 4-12 years)
National Art Gallery
 The
National Art Gallery that exists today is highly praised by many visitors
who have come and view its exhibits. As one enters its doors, there
is a centre piece sculpture made of metal. For those interested in taking
photos of the gallery and artwork, please spare a few minutes to fill
up a requisition form to obtain a pass.
As you go further into the main area of the gallery, there are many
sculptures which reflect a lot of emotion in the masterpieces. The main
area gives you a pleasant feeling as the ambience is warm and comforting.
Open : 10 am - 6 pm (Daily). Admission : Free
National History Museum
 It
is within the premise of an old building situated at the edge of a junction
adjacent to Dataran Merdeka along Jalan Raja Laut. The building once
housed a commercial bank dating back to 1910. The museum allows visitors
to discover the wealth of Malaysia's historical heritage through its
permanent exhibition of artifacts and materials.
The museum carries out museological activities such as research, collection,
recording and publication with regards to the nation's treasures. Exhibits
include a 520 million year old metamorphic sandstone, a 40,000 year
old homo sapien skull and an eight-sided gold coin dating back to the
15th century.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm daily. Admission is free
National Mosque
This uniquely designed mosque embodies a contemporary expression
of traditional Islamic art, calligraphy and ornamentation. Its most
striking feature is the multi-fold umbrella-like roof which symbolizes
the aspirations of an independent nation. Standing prominently against
the skyline is the sleek and stylish 73m high minaret. The national
mosque serves as the principal mosque for the city dwellers.
National Museum
 Located
at the fringe of Taman Tasik Perdana (The Lake Gardens) This palatial
building was designed along the lines of classical Malay Architecture
and is the principal museum in the country. Its imposing entrance opens
into an impressive collection of exhibits on local history, culture
and custom, arts and handicraft, weapons and currencies.
There are also exhibits on economic activities like rubber planting,
tin-mining and some samples of Malaysia's flora and fauna. Outdoor static
displays include old locomotives, vintage cars and replicas of ancient
Malay Palaces.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm (Daily). Admission : RM 1 (Children
under 12 years - Free)
National Planetarium
This blue-domed structure is situated atop a hill in KL Lake Gardens.
Its attractions include the space theatre which screens space shows
and movies. In the main hall are permanent exhibits related to space
science. Among them is Arianne IV space engine - one of the engines
used to launch MEASAT I, Malaysia's first satellite into space. Head
towards the Observatory where on a full moon you can see the heavenly
bodies through the 14-inch telescope. The planetarium is connected by
an overhead pedestrian bridge to the National Museum.
Open : 10 am - 4 pm. Fridays closed
National Science Center
Perched atop a hill on 8 hectares of landscaped grounds at Bukit
Kiara on the northwestern fringes of the city, the National Science
Centre was established in 1996 to promote greater understanding and
interest in science and technology. The building resembles a truncated
cone capped with a geodesic dome. Among the fascinating themes featured
in the exhibition galleries are an environmental odyssey, pathways to
discovery, future world and thinking machines.
Open : 10 am - 5 pm. Friday closed. Admission
: RM 6 (Adults), RM 3 (Children)
National Sports Complex
 The
National Sports Complex situated on a 200 acre site in Bukit Jalil is
the venue for sports and other functions. It houses the National Stadium,
Putra Stadium, National Aquatic Centre, National Hockey Stadium and
National Squash Centre.
Traditional carvings adorn the main entrance of the National Stadium
which was the venue for the opening, closing ceremonies and the track
and field events during the Kuala Lumpur '98 XVI Commonwealth
Games.
National Theatre
 Permanent
home of the National Theatre Company and the National Symphony Orchestra,
the National Theatre is responsible for the development of all forms
of theatrical art in Malaysia.
Designed as a functional building which not only reflects the beauty
of form, the National Theatre is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment
while still retaining the national heritage and traditional Malay design.
Drama, dance and musical performances are held regularly.
National Zoo and Aquarium
Located 13 km northeast of Kuala Lumpur, the National
Zoo houses some 200 species of animals, birds and reptiles while the
aquarium has 80 species of marine and fresh-water life. Within the extensive
grounds is an area for sea lions where visitors can see them being most
active during feeding time. There are also train rides for children.
Open : 9 am - 6 pm daily. Admission : RM 5 (Adults),
RM 2 (Children)
Petaling Street
Petaling Street (Known as KL's Chinatown) is endowed with a distinct
character of its own. This colourful street of shops, restaurants and
hawker stalls bustles with vitality. Walk, linger or browse as the sights
and sounds capture one's imagination. Flanking both sides of this street
are shops selling anything from textiles to Chinese herbal medicines.
There are also a number of restaurants serving authentic regional Chinese
Cuisine.
Petronas Twin Towers
Currently the world's tallest two freestanding towers, the 88-storey
Petronas Twin Towers soars to a dizzying height of 452m above the city
skyline. This gleaming architectural delight inspired by the five Pillars
of Islam is the centerpiece of the ultra-modern Kuala Lumpur
city Centre. Situated within the towers is the Petronas Philharmonic
Hall, home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and the Petronas
Performing Arts Group.
Petrosains
 Petrosains
is located at Level 4 Suria KLCC. Petrosains is an interactive science
discovery center that tells the story of the petroleum industry. Interesting
features Include Dark Rides through the rainforest and over mountains,
Giant Diorama with a Singing Dinosaur and other authentic replicas of
prehistoric plants and animals, Molecule "Nanoworld" Experience,
Helicopter Simulator Ride to the "true-to-life" Oil Rig and
many more. The excitement is endless.
Opens: 9.30 am - 5.30 pm Saturday to Thursday.
2.30 pm - 7.30 pm on Friday Closed on Monday
Putra World Trade Centre
The Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) is Malaysia's main conference
and conventions centre. It was named after Malaysia's first Prime Minister,
Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. The design of the building is based
on Malay Architecture with its large arch resembling its importance
and grandeur. PWTC is built adjacent to the UMNO building and the Pan
Pacific Hotel. One can take a taxi, buses or even the cummuter train
to get there.
Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman
 The
heritage center of the Badan Warisan Malaysia (Heritage of Malaysia
Trust) is located in a mock Tudor building dating from 1925. In the
garden is a bamboo hut built by Orang Asli of the Temiar community and
a restored Malay timber house known as the Rumah Penghulu.
This was formerly the residence of a local headman in Kedah. It is beautifully
decorated throughout with intricate carvings and has been furnished
to reflect a house in the early thirties with some wedding accoutrements.
A guided tour and viewing of a video documentary on the restoration
is available.
The Centre hosts regular exhibitions with a heritage theme and has a
gift shop and reference library.
Open : 10 am - 4 pm (Monday-Friday) , except public
holidays
 Sultan
Abdul Samad Building
Overlooking the Merdeka Square, Sultan Abdul Samad Building
was built in 1897 to house the various administrative departments of
the British Government at the time.
Its Moorish features have attracted the interest of visiting historians
and students of architecture. Today, the building houses the Supreme
and High Courts and Infokraf, a centre for Malaysian handicrafts.
Getting
Around Kuala Lumpur
Taxis
The fare is RM 2 for the first 2 km and 10 sen for every 200 metres
thereon. A surcharge of 50% is levied between midnight and 6.00 am
Commuter Trains
KTM Komuter operates speedy electric train services from the KL
railway station to designated points within the city as well as to Port
Klang, Seremban, Kajang and Rawang.
Light Rail Transit (LRT)
There are 2 LRT lines - STAR and PUTRA. Daily operating hours are
6.00 am - 12.00 pm. Stored value tickets can be purchased at any LRT
station.
Buses
Travelling in public buses is one of the best ways to see Kuala
Lumpur. Major bus lines servicing the city and suburban areas
are Intrakota, Metro and Cityliner
Bus Stations :
- Klang Bus Station : To Petaling Jaya, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport,
Shah Alam and Port Klang
- Jalan Sultan Mohamad Bus Station : to Bangsar, Petaling Jaya (Old
Town), Kelana Jaya, Jalan Pantai, Bukit Damansara and Subang
- Bangkok Bank Bus Station : To Selayang Baru, Segambut Dalam and
Batu Caves
- Pudu Raya Bus Station : To Seri Kembangan, Sungai Besi Camp, Balakong,
Taman Seri Serdang and Kajang
- Lebuh Ampang Bus Station : To Taman Greenwood, Kg. Air Panas, Sri
Gombak, Taman Setapak and 12th Mile Gombak
- Kota Raya Shopping Complex / Menara Maybank : To Jalan Cheras,
Sri Petaling, Serdang Lama, Taman Goodwood, Salak South, Sungei Besi,
Kampung Pandan, Bandar Tun Razak and Taman Maluri
- Chow Kit Bus Stand : To Kg. Datuk Keramat, Ulu Kelang, Ampang,
Cheras, Salak South, Sungai Besi, Petaling Jaya, Jalan Kelang Lama,
Bangsar, Damansara, Kepong, Jinjang, Segambut, Selayang, Sentul, Gombak
and Jalan Genting Kelang
- Hentian Duta : To KLIA
There are also several bus companies which operate intercity, stage
and express bus services to various destinations in the peninsula. Bus
stations for interstate buses are located at :
To The East Coast :
Putra Bus Station (Opposite the Putra World Trade Centre)
Tel : 03-4042-9530
To The East Coast :
Pekeliling Bus Station : Jalan Tun Razak
Tel : 03-4042-1256 / 4042-7888
To The North & South and Singapore :
Pudu Raya Bus Station : Jalan Pudu
Tel : 03-230-0145
To The North & South :
Bangunan MARA : Medan MARA, Jalan Raja Laut
Tel : 03-2691-8113
Public Transport to and from KL International
Airport (KLIA)
Various modes of public transportation are available to and from KLIA.
They are :
Express Coach Service (KL City)
Route : Hentian Duta nearby the Tun Razak Hockey Stadium,
Kuala Lumpur to the Bus Terminal of KLIA at Ground
Level, Block C of the Covered Car Park and vice-versa.
Pick-up Points : Hentian Duta Kuala Lumpur & Bus Terminal of
KLIA
Frequency : 30 minutes interval
Estimated Travelling Time : 1 hour
Fare : Express coach : RM 20 / RM 25*
* To/From hotels in KL via Hentian Duta, Bus Terminal
from/to KLIA
Express Coach Service (Shah Alam)
Route : The Pan Pacific Glenmarie Hotel & Resort, Shah Alam
to the bus terminal of KLIA at Ground Level, Block of the Covered Car
Park and vice-versa.
Pick-up Points : The Pan Pacific Glemnarie Hotel and Resort, Shah
Alam
Frequency : One hour interval
Estimated Travelling Time : 45 minutes
Fare : Express coach : RM 12 (One-way), RM 21 (Return)
Express Coach Service (Chan Sow Lin)
Route : Chan Sow Lin, STAR LRT Station to the bus terminal of KLIA
at Ground Level, Block C of the Covered Car Park and vice-versa.
Pick-up Points : Chan Sow Lin, STAR-LRT Station
Frequency : One hour interval
Estimated Travelling Time : 45 minutes
Fare : Express coach : RM 14 (One-way), RM 25 (Return)Tickets for
the bus service can be purchased at the Arrival Concourse (Level 3)
of KLIA or at the covered car park. |
