The Malaysian capital is the gateway to Asia, a city in constant growth and characterized by its contrasts. It was founded by Chinese miners in 1857 who were looking for nearby tin deposits in Malaysia, but today it is one of the most interesting tourist destinations to visit in Asia: it is chaotic and vibrant, traditional and modern, full of large skyscrapers that coexist with the typical food, technology or clothing markets.
Increasingly open to international tourism Kuala Lumpur is the perfect destination to start a trip to Malaysia, both for its geography and for the urban fabric and its environment.
When to visit Kuala Lumpur?
Due to its geographical location, Kuala Lumpur enjoys a humid and warm climate throughout the year, with average annual temperatures that are between 20 and 30º C. Rains and floods are common, so it is advisable to avoid monsoons when booking a flight. If you are planning to visit the beaches of eastern Malaysia, do not do it between May and September and if you decide on the west coast avoid the dates from November to March.
Do you need a visa to travel to Kuala Lumpur?
Citizens of the European Union do not need a visa to enter Malaysia. To book flights to Kuala Lumpur, only a valid passport with more than three months of expiration is required.
What to see in Kuala Lumpur?
Petronas Towers
Millions of people visit this skyscraper each year, which between 1998 and 2003 were the tallest in the world. At present with 88 floors and a height of 452 meters they are the tallest twin towers on the planet and the eleventh tallest building in the world.
The Petronas Towers is the most important building to see in Kuala Lumpur, as well as one of the most modern and most beautiful on the planet, spectacular both day and night.
Symbol of modernity allow you to enjoy incredible views. You can buy tickets for the viewpoint on the 86th floor or go from one tower to another crossing the highest suspension bridge in the world. Make sure you get there early because tickets are limited and the ticket offices open at 8.30 in the morning, although they can also be purchased online.
Image | Pixabay
Shopping Centers
After visiting the Petronas Towers you can take a walk in the park and visit the shopping center called Suria KLCC that is right next door. However, in Kuala Lumpur there are other centers such as the Pavilión Shopping Center or the Lot 10 Shopping Center, both with food courts where you can eat delicious Asian dishes at quite cheap prices.
Central Market
Another essential place to see in Kuala Lumpur is the Central Market, a building full of shops where you can find the best souvenirs from your trip to Malaysia.
Chinatown
Next to the Central Market is Chinatown, a neighborhood full of restaurants, shops, bars and stalls where bargaining is an art.
Image | Wikipedia
Sri Mahamariaman Temple
Near Chinatown is the Sri Mahamariaman Temple, a marvel of Hindu architecture that was built at the end of the XNUMXth century, being the oldest temple of this religion in Malaysia. Its main façade is made up of a large 23-meter high tower, with brightly colored Ramayana figures
The temple is named after the popular Hindu deity, Mariamman, who is regarded as the protector of the Tamils during their stays abroad.
Merdaka Square
Merdaka Square is the most popular square in Kuala Lumpur. Its name means Independence Square and pays tribute to the day the Malaysian national flag was raised to proclaim its independence in 1957 after lowering the British one.
Here are buildings as important as that of Sultan Abdul Samad, one of the most beautiful in the city, which was the seat of the British colonial administration as well as the Royal Selangor Club Complex, the National Museum of History or the central Tourist Office.