The capital and largest city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is known as an alpha world city. A blend of modernity and traditional charm, the city has historical buildings, tranquil spots of nature and a warm cultural heritage. The name 'Kuala Lumpur' is a Malay term, which means 'muddy confluence'. The city is bordered by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east, several minor ranges in the north and the south and the Strait of Malacca in the west. It is now an international shopping destination with a wide variety of shopping centers and mega-malls, housing well-known global and local brands. Given here are some major attractions of Kuala Lumpur, the gateway to a different experience.
Kuala Lumpur Attractions
Dataran Merdeka
Also known as Merdeka Square, Dataran Merdeka is located in the front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. A usual venue for the annual Hari Merdeka Parade (National Day Parade), Datarn Merdeka is the place where the Union Flag was lowered and the Malayan flag was hoisted, on August 31, 1957.
Kuala Lumpur Tower
Currently the fifth tallest freestanding tower in the world, the Kuala Lumpur Tower or Menara Kuala Lumpur stands at 421 meters. Used for communication purposes and featuring an antenna, this tower has a stairwell and an elevator to reach the upper area. It provides its passengers a beautiful view of the city and also has a revolving restaurant.
Petronas Twin Towers
Petronas Towers are the world's fifth tallest buildings and the tallest twin buildings in the world. The towers are located in the Kuala Lumpur City Center Park, providing various facilities like jogging and walking paths, wading pools, children's playground and a fountain with incorporated light show.
Muzium Negara
Located close to Perdana Lake Gardens, Muzium Negara or National Museum provides an overview of Malaysian history and culture. Built in the style of Rumah Gadang, the museum stands three storied, at 109.7 meters length, 15.1 meters width and 37.6 meters central point. The place displays various freestanding tableaux, showing traditional cultural events such as weddings, festivals and beautiful costumes, and rich variety of weapons, arts and crafts.
Masjid Negara
The national mosque of Malaysia, Masjid Negara is situated near Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens. It is elegantly designed, with contemporary interpretations from the traditional Islamic art and calligraphy. The umbrella-like roof of the mosque is cast in a blue hue. You can find reflecting pools and fountains spread throughout the compound.
Petaling Street
Petaling Street is usually crowded with locals and tourists. Also known as 'Chee Cheong Kai' meaning 'Starch Factory Street, it is home to tapioca. Various Chinese items can also be found like herbs, dry goods, clothes and toys. A number of food stalls are also set up serving Hokkien mee, ikan bakar (barbecued fish), asam laksa and curry noodles.
Thean Hou Buddhist Temple
One of the oldest temples in Southeast Asia, Thean Hou Buddhist Temple is located at Robson Heights, along Lorong Bellamy. It is decorated with spectacular designs across its roofs, with murals on its walls. It serves as a popular wedding venue, especially for the Chinese, during certain festivals.
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Malaysia's first international-standard water theme park, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park offers various water-based attractions, including giant water slides, twin speed slides, a river, a waterfall garden and a lagoon express. The park is divided into three sections, namely the Wild Wild West, World of Adventure and Waters of Africa. It houses a shopping mall (Pyramid) and a resort hotel.
