Tourist Attractions Modern Landmarks Petronas Twin Tower
Petronas Twin Tower
The stunning Petronas Twin Towers, a world-renowned icon of the country. The 452 metre or 88 floor Petronas Twin Tower along Jalan Ampang were once the world’s tallest structure when completed in 1998. The towers are. however , still the tallest twinbuildings in the world.
Kuala Lumpur Tower
Another distinct landmark is the 421 metre Kuala Lumpur Tower ( Menara Kuala Lumpur ). located at Jalan Puncak. it is currently the fifth tallest tower in the world.equipped with four elevators. Artisans from Iran decorated the domes in it’s main lobby.
It has a revolving restaurants, providing a 360-degree of KL.
Kuala Lumpur Tower Restaurant
Dataran Merdeka
Dataran Merdeka or Merdeka Square is a good starting points to explore the city’s heritage sites. The Union Jack was lowered here on 31 August 1957 making Malaysia’s Independece from colonial rule. Hence the name Merdeka, which means “Independence” in Malay. A 100 metre-high flagpole, reputedly the tallest in the world, proudly flies the Malaysian flag. The Square used to be the focal point of Kuala Lumpur and the field here was the venue for police parades and cricket matches. Today, it is beautifully landscaped area with gardens,terraces and fountains and a popular spot for photography. Merdeka Square is still an important venue for national events such as Natianal Day celebrations and street parades.
Royal Selangor Club
Adjacent to Dataran Merdeka is the Royal Selangor Club, a charming mock-Todor structure. It was founded in 1884 as a small plank building with thatched roof, serving as a small plank building with thatched roof, serving as a social and cricket club for the growing expatraite community. The original building was replaced in 1890 by a two-storey timber structure designed by AC Norman, a government architect, and rebuilt in 1910 with a design similar to a mock -Tudor house by architect AB Hubback. In the colonial days. the club was dubbed. Tne Spotted Dog’, a nickname purportedly originating from the Police Commissoiner’s black and white dalmations, often brought there by his wife. The name is also said to have originated from its mixed membership at the time. It was again rebuilt to its present form in 1979 by an architect Fong Ying Leong, after a fire razed the building in 1970. The club is exclusively for members and has a wide range of sporting facilites as well food and beverage outlets.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building
The remarkble edifice, built in 1897, was named after the State Ruler and served as the government administration building during the British era. Boasting a Mahomedan or Neo-Saracenic style, the building is constructed entirely of brick. It was the largest building of its day and was said to be the finest in the Malay states. The stately structure consists of an imposing porch,graceful horseshoe-shaped arches,shiny copper domes and a 41.2 metre-high clock tower. It now houses the Malaysian Supreme and High Courts as well as a handicraft centre. The building makes an impressive landmark when illuminated at night.
The building designed by architect and engineer TY Lee, is a fine example of Art Deco styles of the 1930′s.
Central Market ( Pasar Seni )
Central Market used to be the town’s wholesale and retail wet market for fresh produce. It was renovoted and reopened in 1986,and it was the first example of a heritage building being adapted for a different use . It is now a leading crafts centre in the city.
CHINATOWN ( PETALING STREET)
KL’s Chinatown is a bustling and colorful street of shops, restaurants, and hawker stalls. Aside from the popular shopping district of Petaling Street, the nearby buildings.clan houses and temples contain evidences of the city’s built heritage. among them sre the Lee Rubber Building, Kwong Siew Association, Old High Street Police Station,Sikh Temple, Old China Cafe,Old Victoria Institution and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple .
JALAN TUANKU ABDUL RAHMAN
This colanial building was constructed in 1935 as family residence by Eu Tong Seng, a wealthy tin miner and rubber estate tycoon. It then served as the military base of the British army during World War II. It use to be the sittings of Malaysia’s Parliment and the installation ceremonies of several
Malaysian Tourism Centre (Matic)
kings of the country. Today it’s one stop centre for tourists,with a host of facilities.such as 24 hour tourist counter, internet access, tour booking, currency exchange, hotel reservation as well as souvenier outlets and a chocalate boutique.
Matic (dance)
Watch cultural performances its auditorium and saviour mouth-watering fare at the SalomaTheatre Restautant located whithin its grounds.
The Heritage Centre
The Heritage Centre
Istana Negara Jalan Istana
Istana Negara Guard
KL Railway Station (Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin) The splendid building in the heart of the city was the hub for the nation’s rail transportation system before the modern KL Sentral Station was built. It’s Moorish architecture with graceful arches and minarets. makes it one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Equally impressive is the Malayan Railway (KTM) Headquarters overlooking the station.
KL Railway Station
PLACES OF WORSHIP Masjid Negara ( Jalan Perdana ) Masjid Negara the National Mosque is the most distinguished mosque in Kuala Lumpur. It has a unique star-shaped dome. Its 73-metre-high minaret stands impressively against the skyline. Within its beautifully landscaped grounds are pools and fountains. Visitors are required to be appropriately dressed while visiting the mosque. Robes and headscarves will be provided to ladies.
Masjid Negara
Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan ( Jalan Duta ) Situated on a hillock, this mosque was inspired by 16th Century Ottoman architecture. It boasts 22 beautiful domes of various sizes. Its location within a well-manicured garden and surrounded by a moat, makes it a sight to behold. The mosque is able to accommodate 17,000 worshippers at any time.
Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan
Masjid Jamek ( Off Jalan Tun Perak ) The mosque occupies a historic location at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak river, the birthplace of Kuala Lumpur. Built in 1909 this is the city’s oldest surviving mosque and was officially opened by the then Sultan of Selangor. It’s design was inspired by Mogul architecture in Northern India. Cupolas and minarets top the brick walls and arched colonnades while a 70 feet dome surmounts the prayer hall. Masjid Jamek was the city’s principle mosque untill the opening of the National Mosque in 1965.
Masjid Jamek
Masjid India ( Jalan Masjid India ) Just minutes away from Masjid Jamek is Masjid India. Built in the southern Indian style, this mosque is a three-storey structure with onion-domed chatris ( open-sided-umbrella-shaped cupolas) as well as arched windows with Islamic motifs. The mosque was first built in 1863 as a wooden hut and underwent several renovations. The present structure was opened by the Sultan of Selangor in 1966 and can accommodate 3,500 worshippers. The first floor is for men while the second floor is reserved for women.
Masjid India
Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin (Besides the Royal Selangor Club ) This is a fine example of early English Gothic architecture featuring beautiful stained glass windows, tasselled tile paving and buttresses. The laying of the foundation stone was carried out in 1894 by the British Resident. WH Treacher. Its design was proposed by A.C. Norman, a government architect. Of interest here is a pipe organ built in 1895 by Henry Willis, regarded as one of the greatest organ builders of his day.
Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin
Thean Hou Temple (65 Persiaran Indah, off Jalan Syed Putra ) Situated on a hillock, this magnificent Chinese temple has golden roofed pagodas and strings of lanterns. Located inside are three majestic statute of deities, including the main deity Thean Hou. The ornate architecture and scenic surroundings lend a serene atmosphere to the temple. Within its grounds are statutes of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, In the basement area, shops sell a variety of items such as woodcarvings and other decorative pieces.
Thean Hou Temple
Sze Ya Temple ( Junction of Lebuh Pudu and Jalan Tun H.S. Lee ) This is the oldest Taiost temple in the city with a history dating back to 1864. Built by Kapitan Cina Yap Ah Loy, one of the founding fathers of Kuala Lumpur, it features an ornate interior and elaborate roof ridges. The temple pays tribute the deities, Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya. The oracles of the former were said to have guided Yap Ah Loy during the Selangor Civil War. Its rather unusual position behind several shop houses is believed to have been determined by geomancy or feng shui , creating an usual angle of the walls, arches and stairways.
Sze Ya Temple
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple ( Jalan Tun H.S. Lee ) This stunning Hindu Temple is one of the oldest and most elobarate in the country. Its magnificent 22-metre-high gate tower and portico are ardoned with intricately carved images of Hindu deities. Located within are the deities of the Hindu goddess Maha Mariamman embelished with gold and precious stones. Take in the sights and sounds from peddlers selling strings of jasmine garlands to aromatic incense filling the air.
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
THEMED ATTRACTIONS
Aquaria KLCC (Concourse Level Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre )
Explore the mysterious of the ocean without having to leave the city. Lovers of aquatic life will enjoy a visit to this gigantic aquarium, situated at the basement of the KL Convention Centre. Reputed to the largest aquarium in the world, it covers over 5,000 square feet, showcasing nearly 150 species of fishes from various parts of the world. Delight in watching the Sand Tiger Sharks, the over 2 metre long Atapaima Giga, coral fishes, seahorses and many more. Other attractions include snakes,geckos and poinsonous dart frogs. The highlight here is a 90-metre-long tunnel for visitors to walk through while watching the fish feeding sessions.
Aquaria KLCC
Petrosains (Level 4, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre )
Petrosains
Petrosains
Petrosains
Gain at insight into the petroleum industry in this exciting discovery centre. With 7,000 square metres of exhibit area, visitors will have enjoyable time with the host of interactive displays, dioramas and activities. Travel in an oil-drop shaped vehicle,visit of an oil platform or enjoy a thrilling ride in a helicopter simulator. A hand-held computer will help visitors to interact with the exhibits.
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre ( Jalan Usahawan 6, Setapak Jaya )
Welcome to the home the world-renowned Royal Selangor Pewter. Explore the Chamber of Chimes, Hall of Finishes and many more or join the guided factory tour to see the various stages of pewter processing from casting,soldering to engraving. The highlight of a visit here is the The School of Hard Knocks, an hour -long workshop where visitors can create their own souvenirs. The retail store offers an exciting range of pewter homeware, silver filgree jewellery and gifts.
National Planetarium ( Jalan Perdana )
The National Planeterium is situated on a hillock just outside the KL Lake Gardens, in the vicinity of the National Mosque. This blue-domed structure with futuristic design elements is the venue for a variety of fun filled and exciting discoveries. View documentaries at its wide-screen cinema, marvel at the exhibits on astronomy or experience the thrill of zero gravity. The National Planetarium is accessible from the National Mesuem via an overhead pedestrian bridge.
National Science Centre (Persiaran Bukit Kiara, Bukit Kiara)
Situated on the outskirts of the city, this futuristics looking building is shaped like a truncated cone and covered with a huge geodesic done. Established in 1996 to promote science and technology in the country, the centre features fascinating themes such as An Environmetal Odyssey, Pathways to Discovery, Future World and Thinking Machines.
TROPICAL ENCLAVES
Numerous parks and green areas provide the city with a garden -like ambience. These green lungs are beautifully landscaped and abound with lush tropical foliage and soothing water features. The National Zoo and several other parks afford you a closer look at a wide variety of animals. Most of these tropical enclaves are located just minutes away from the centre.
KL Lake Gardens
Enjoy verdant greenery in this refreshing enclave in the middle of a bustling city, KL Lake Gardens is the city’s premier park, sprawling over 200 acres. Built around two lakes, this tropical garden has vistas of exotic blooms, luxuriant foliage, imposing sculptures, majestic raintress and creative theme parks. Its jogging and walking trails provide refreshing recreation amidst pleasant surroundings.
KL Lake Gardens and its environs is home to the Orchid & Hibuscus Garden, Deer Park, Butterfly Park and KL Bird Park.
Orchid & Hibiscus Gardens
Admire 800 varieties of rare and exotic orchids here. Visitors can buy their favourite varieties at the Orchid Bazaar held weekly on Sunday. The adjacent Hibiscus Garden showcases an assortment of the colorful blooms, known locally as the Bunga Raya Malaysia’s national flower.
Deer Park
Sprawled over two hectares of undulating terrain, this area with shady tress, tricking streams and ponds is home to spotted deer from Holland. Enjoy feeding these gentle creatures and keep a look out for the endearing Sang Kancil, the wily mouse deer of ancient folklore.
KL Butterfly Park
Marvel at more than 6,000 butterflies consisting of over 120 species. The park recreates the natural habitat of the butterfly, with a vast variety of exotic plants and multi-hued blooms. Stroll along to take a closer look at the various colours and sizes of these delicate creatures. Special attractions include the huge Raja Brooke, Iswara, Malay Lacewing, Five Bar Swordtail,YellowTip, Indian Leaf and Lime Butterfly species. Housed within the park are a butterfly nursery and breeding area, insect museum and souvenir shop.
KL Bird Park
Reputed to have the largest free-flight walk-in aviary in the world, this park is home to 3000 or more splendidly colored birds of 200 local and foreign species. Located within the Lake Gardens, this brilliantly landscaped, semi-natural 21 acre park houses exotic and amazing birds such as the Bird of Paradise, Changeable Hawk Eagle, Rhinoceros, Hornbill and more. After your visit, enjoy a delicious meal at the Hornbill Restaurant, built in the style of a traditional Malay house.
Asean Scultpture Garden
Explore the uniquely landscaped garden to view a collection of prize winning sculpture in wood, marble, iron, and bamboo. Exhibits are skilfully crafted by the ASEAN region’s finest artists. The garden is situated adjacent to the National Monument and in the vicinity of the KL Lake Gardens.
KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre)
This is a beautifully landscaped park with approximately 1,900 indigenous tress and palms representing 74 species as well as soothing water features. The park beckons all in the family with a children’s playground, a wadding pool and a 1.3 km rubberised jogging track.Various murals and sculptures add to the appeal. A delightful attraction here is the Symphony Lake, where two fountains provide 150 colorful and dazzling animations .
Titiwangsa Lake Gardens ( Jalan Temerloh )
This pleasant oasis in the city consists of a man made lake, a paddock, jogging trails, exercise stations and a children playground. Go boating in the lake or take a walk to enjoy the fresh, crisp air and lush green surroundings. By night, the lake provides a stunning reflection of the Petronas Twin Towers. Savour local delights at the Nelayan Restaurant situated within the grounds.
National Zoo ( Hulu Klang )
Situated just 13 km northeast of KL, the zoo houses some 200 species of animals, birds and reptiles. Spend the day observing tigers, lions, Sumatran rhinos and other wildlife or watch entertaining performances by orang utans, elephants and sea lions at scheduled hours. Children and adults alike will enjoy the horse, camel and elephant rides. Tram rides are an interesting way to explain to explore the zoo. See nocturnal animals such tigers, tapirs, porcupines and Nile Hippos at their most active hours in the Zoo By Night on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Bukit Nenas Forest Reserve
This sanctuary has the distinction of being the oldest as well as the only permanent forest reserve in the heart of the city. Becoming at the slopes of KL Tower, the lowland dipterocarp forest stretches over 10.5 hectare and is home to a diversity of inhabitants. A 100-year old Jelutong tree (Dyera Consulata) adds to the appeal here . Marvel at the lush foliage in a 70-metre boardwalk or join a guided tour to take a closer look at the tress, bamboos, herbs and climbers. Visitors can choose from three different trails. Look out for exotic birds, butterflies,squirrels and monkeys.
TREASURE TROVES
KUALA LUMPUR offers museum lovers and connoiseurs of the arts and crafts many spots to indulge their time. Its meseums, memorials art galaries and craft centres showcase unique and absorbing collections of the fine objects d’ art and exhibits that will enhance the visitors experience of the country. Look out for special exhibitions or events held by these establishments throught the year.
National Museum ( Jalan Damansara )
Malaysia’s premier museum located on the fringe of the KL Lake Garden serves as a repository for the nation’s rich history and heritage. Built in 1963, its facade features a Minangkabau styled roof and two impressive front murals. Trace the nations development over the decades in its four main galleries: Culture, Faces of Malaysia, Natural History and Weaponry, Traditional Musical Instruments & Ceramics. Among the highlights here are the collections of keris or the Malay dagger, ceramics from the Ming Dynasty and traditional musical instruments from various parts of Asia. Outdoor displays include vintage cars, and old steam locomotive and a replica of an old Malay palace. Thematic exhibitions are held from time to time.
Malay World Gallery ( Jalan Damansara )
Gain an insight into the heritage and legacy of the Malay world. This gallery showcases a collection of the finest and most uncommon exhibits that are associated with the Malay history and civilization, sourced from various parts of the region such as Malaysia, Indonesia,Thailand,Philipines and Cambodia. It is situated within the grounds of the National Museum.
Islamic Arts Museum ( Jalan Lembah Perdana )
The museum provides an insights into the beauty of islamic arts and the great civilization that inspired it. The various themed galleries exhibit priceless treasures such as Islamic manuscripts,ceramics & glassware, metalwork, arms & armors, textiles and coins. Highlights include the Islamic Architecture Gallery which showcases replicas of famous buildings such as The Taj Mahal in India. Masjid Al-Haram Mosque in Mecca as well as the Amir Timur Mausoleum in Uzbekistan.
Cultural Craft Museum ( Jalan Conlay )
Located within the Craft Complex, the museum offers fascinating glimpses into the history and development of Malaysian crafts. Life sized dioramas feature artisans at work, the tools they use to hone their skills. their workplace and their masterpieces.
Asian Arts Museum ( University of Malaya )
Situated within the University of Malaya campus, this museum showcases the creations of Asian artists. Displays include fine examples of local and Asian art pieces such as sculptures, ceramics and textiles. Students and researches will be pleased to find materials on Asian art films, slides and pictures.
Pucuk Rabung Museum Gallery
3rd Floor, Suria KLCC ( Ampang Wall Wing ) Kuala Lumpur City Centre
This gallery meseum houses a splendid collection of artefacts from the ancient Malay world, dating to the 12th century. On displays are fine pieces of antique fabrics, metalwork, jewellery porcelain and pottery, crystal and contemporary art. For some unique souvenier itmes, choose from the various gifts and collectebiles on sale.
Jade Museum
No.26 Jalan Delima, off Jalan Imbi
Enter a treasure trove of jade artefacts and ornaments. In some cultures jade is hailed as the ‘stone of heaven’ and is purpoted to have mystical and healing powers. The Jade Museum displays a collection of antiques as well as accessories such as exquisite brooches, rings, earrings, necklaces and many more. Visitors can also view pieces of raw jade that were taken as sample from jade boulders. Gifts and souvenirs are available for purchase.
Maybank Numismatic Museum
1st Floor Maybank Tower , Jalan Tun Perak
This museum houses an impressive collection of coins and notes from the early days of Malaya and the present time. It also serves as a centre of reseach into Malaysia’s numismatic history.
National Telecommunication Museum
( Telekomuzium )
Juntion of Jalan Raja Chulan and Jalan Gereja
This museum showcases 120 years of telecommunications development from the early days of the Morse Code telegraph to the digital network of today.
Armed Forces Museum
Jalan Padang Tembak
Royal Malaysia Air Force Museum
Royal Malaysian Air Force Base
Jalan Lapangan Terbang Lama
Royal Malaysian Police Museum
No.5 Jalan Perdana
ART GALLERIES
National Art Gallery
Jalan Temerloh Off Jalan Tun Razak
The gallery displays paintings, sculptures and other works of leading Malaysian and international artists. It also features experimental works and touring exhibitions. The unique spiral passageway provides an opportunity to view art works from various levels and angels.
Petronas Art Gallery
3rd Floor, Suria KLCC ( Ampang Wall Wing ) Kuala Lumpur City Centre
The gallery is designed with an emphasis on natural geometry and abstract concepts. Its display space of 1135.92 square metres features both traditional and modern artistic expressions. Activities here include art demonstrations, forums and classes. A range of interesting art materials are available in its souvenir shop.
Galeri Tangsi
PAM Centre, Jalan Tangsi
Housed in the heritage building of the Architect Association of Malaysia ( PAM). the gallery exhibits contemporary works by well-known names in the Malaysian arts scene as well as budding artists.
MEMORIALS
Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Memorial
Jalan Dato’ Onn
This memorial was established in honour of Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra-Al-Haj, Malaysia’s first Prime Ministry (1957-1970) fondly known as the Father of Independence. He is best remembered for his role in gaining independence for the country. The memorial service as a permanent custodian for all his archival, museum, and library materials. Visitors can view the materials on display and conduct research into the life and times of the charismatic statesman.
Tun Abdul Razak Memorial
Sri Tasman, Jalan Perdana
The memorial is housed within Sri Taman, once the residence of Tun Abdul Razak. Malaysia’s second Prime Minister (1970-1976). He was hailed the Father of Development for his role in the development of modern Malaysia. This historical building exhibits documents, library materials, personal belongings as well as the original furnishings. Of particular interest is the collection of gifts,mementos and souvenirs, presented to him by leaders around the world. The memorial is situated close to the Bird Park, in the KL Lake Garden.
Galeria Sri Perdana
Jalan Damansara
Malaysia’s fourth Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed (1981-2003) is perhaps best known for his vision and foresight in accelerating the nation’s development. During his tenure, the nation experienced a quantum leap in its transformation into an industrialised nation. Sri Perdana was his official residence for 16 years before it was shifted to Putrajaya. It now houses his personal collections and artifacts.
National Monument
Jalan Parlimen
Situated overlooking the KL Lake Gardens, the huge bronze monument was built to pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who gave their lives defending the country during the country during the Communist insurgency in the 1950′s. It was designed by Felix de Weldon, the architect of the famous Iwa Jima Memorial.
P.Ramlee Memorial
22, Jalan Dedap. Taman P. Ramlee
The late Tan Sri P. Ramlee – actor, director, singer and composer extraordinaire – was known for his invaluable contribution to the music and film industry. This memorial houses various exhibits and audio visual materials pertaining to his life and artistic achievements.
CRAFT CENTRES
Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex
Jalan Conlay
Styled like a Malay village, this complex is an artists’ colony housing handicraft shops, an art workshop, craft museum and food court. Interesting activities here range from batik-painting to weaving, jewellery-making and poetry. Watch the artisans as they skilfully create exquisite items from silver and brass-painting. Visitors can buy export quality Malaysian handicrafts such as kaftans, bathrobes, silverware, pewterware, glassware, pottery, silk batik paintings and songket, the Malaysian brocode.