WHAT TO SEE IN IN KUALA LUMPUR
An introduction to Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's capital city as well as the most populated urban area in the nation. Not only is it a bustling center of commerce and activity but Kuala Lumpur is also home to a range of world class attractions. KL (as it is fondly and popularly known) is an expanding metropolitan region thriving in terms of its population, but also in terms of its economy. In addition, the city is home to the main palace (Istana Negara) of the Malaysian King.
Petronas Twin Tower at night
Location & History
Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs are located in the Klang valley and are geographically located at the centre of Selangorstate. KL was under the rule of Selangor until its appointment as a federal territory in 1974 wherein it came directly under the federal government of Malaysia. Being a part of Klang valley, KL is bordered by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east and the Indonesian island of Sumatra in the west. The region also has a tropical rainforest climate.
Kuala Lumpur's origins can be traced back to the lucrative tin mining industry when in the year 1850 Chinese labourers were instructed by the local chief to step up production. Places like Ampang on the Klang River soon became the focal point for the burgeoning TRADE
. The city on the banks of the Sungai Gombak River was called “Pengkalan Lumpur” literally translating to 'bundle of mud', which came to be known as the muddy confluence, Kuala Lumpur.
. The city on the banks of the Sungai Gombak River was called “Pengkalan Lumpur” literally translating to 'bundle of mud', which came to be known as the muddy confluence, Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur skyline at night
This muddy confluence however showed rapid development and is today the seat of the parliament of Malaysia. Additionally, it was the seat of the federal government until it was relocated to Putrajaya for want of space. KL being on the west coast of Malaysia also enjoys wider flat lands as opposed to its counterparts on the east coast, adding to its rapid development and urbanisation.
Kuala Lumpur truly does offer a different experience altogether to other parts of Malaysia. While the city still heralds its age-old traditions – it is sophisticated and ultra modern buildings that dominate its landscape. It is the only city in Malaysia where one can see traditional Hawker stalls and pre-war shop houses competing equally alongside skyscrapers and mega shopping malls.
Sungai Tua waterfall in KL
The ‘KLites’ (the native population or the residents of KL) are a diverse group of people and represent a mix of different ethnic groups and races. This gives the city the distinction of being the only truly global city in Malaysia.
Over recent years, Kuala Lumpur has developed into a flourishing metropolis with its many architectural achievements like the world-renowned Petronas Towers – (the second tallest buildings in the world). Standing tall in the middle of the city, the towers are a major tourist attraction.
Things to see & do: Tours
The best way to see Kuala Lumpur is usually to sign up for a city tour. The city has many tours designed to fit tourist’s specifications. The adventurous at heart can have a bird’s eye view of expansive KL and its surroundings from their self manned aircraft part of the A-One-Day-Pilot tour. This and many other adventure sports tours like paragliding, windsurfing, light aircraft flying etc can be booked from within the city from the comfort of your HOTEL ROOM itself if you please.
itself if you please.
Petaling street is in the heart of Chinatown and is home to one of Kuala Lumpur's most bustling marketplaces. Bartering on prices is part of the experience but be mindful that branded goods sold here may be counterfeit.
Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, a few minutes away from Petaling Street, Central Market is a famous landmark for Malaysian culture and heritage.
The building was built in 1888 and originally functioned as a wet market. It has since been classified as a Heritage Site.
Tourists flock to Central Market for its variety of handicrafts, art, kebaya, songket, batik and authentic Malaysian souvenirs. A Batik Emporium houses well-known designer labels, with the best Malaysian-made batik items ranging from clothes, shoes, bags to home furnishing.
The Central Market Outdoor Stage is where visitors can catch colourful arts and cultural events. During the country’s main festivals, the area will be lit up in theme, reflecting the multiracial diversity of Malaysians.
For a more contemporary take on the local arts scene, The Annexe Gallery, located at the back of Central Market, is a popular venue for events such as film screenings, art exhibitions and public discourses.
The building was built in 1888 and originally functioned as a wet market. It has since been classified as a Heritage Site.
Tourists flock to Central Market for its variety of handicrafts, art, kebaya, songket, batik and authentic Malaysian souvenirs. A Batik Emporium houses well-known designer labels, with the best Malaysian-made batik items ranging from clothes, shoes, bags to home furnishing.
The Central Market Outdoor Stage is where visitors can catch colourful arts and cultural events. During the country’s main festivals, the area will be lit up in theme, reflecting the multiracial diversity of Malaysians.
For a more contemporary take on the local arts scene, The Annexe Gallery, located at the back of Central Market, is a popular venue for events such as film screenings, art exhibitions and public discourses.
The KL Bird Park is located in the serene and scenic Perdana Botanical Gardens, 10 minutes away from the Kuala Lumpur city centre.
Home to more than 3,000 birds of 200 local and foreign bird species, the main feature that distinguishes KL Bird Park from other bird parks is the concept of free-flight.
Stroll through the park, and take the opportunity to see Mandarin ducks, hawk eagles, hornbills, ostriches and other birds.
Visit the Egg Incubation Room and Nursery and see how chicken eggs are artificially incubated using incubators.
Don't forget to take photographs with the different species of birds, and catch the feeding programme and daily bird shows taking place at the semi-open air amphitheater at 12.30pm and 3.30pm daily.
Home to more than 3,000 birds of 200 local and foreign bird species, the main feature that distinguishes KL Bird Park from other bird parks is the concept of free-flight.
Stroll through the park, and take the opportunity to see Mandarin ducks, hawk eagles, hornbills, ostriches and other birds.
Visit the Egg Incubation Room and Nursery and see how chicken eggs are artificially incubated using incubators.
Don't forget to take photographs with the different species of birds, and catch the feeding programme and daily bird shows taking place at the semi-open air amphitheater at 12.30pm and 3.30pm daily.
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