Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
While Kuala Lumpur is very much a modern city, with its tall skyscrapers and modern office buildings, the city has retained much of its traditional culture and architecture to keep the historian interested. The centre of town has a large number of colonial buildings still in place and the vibrant Chinatown, with its late night markets, must also be seen. Little India is also an intriguing place for a stroll, especially if you're on the lookout for a tasty lunchtime snack.
Down in the city centre you will be unable to miss the enormous 88-storey Petronas Towers. At 1482 feet, these connected towers are the world's second tallest building. Arrive in the morning to have a chance of taking the elevator up to the walkway on the 41st floor ? you have to work there to get any higher. Those who have an insatiable appetite for tall structures can also head to Menara Kuala Lumpur, better known as the KL Tower. Following a vigorous security check, visitors can take a ride to the top of this enormous telecommunications tower, which offers fantastic views of the city and beyond.
For a taste of colonial splendour, head to the Lake Gardens to the west of Merdeka Square. These 92-acre gardens were once owned by leading British officials. Today, everyone can enjoy them and there is plenty to take pleasure in, including a planetarium, various flower gardens, an aviary and a butterfly park. Boats can also be hired at Premier Lake.
Kuala Lumpur has a variety of good museums. One of the leading lights is the National Museum, which houses exhibits detailing the arts and crafts of past generations. However, the real attraction of the place is the wackier exhibits, such as the 'amok catcher', a contraption made out of barbed wire that was used to capture madmen.
The National Art Gallery is also well worth investigating. The place houses a permanent collection of work by current Malaysian artists as well as a variety of changing galleries showcasing many of the leading artists from Asia.
Near Merdeka Square you will find Masjid Jamek, arguably the city's finest Mosque. Built in 1907 upon designs by the British architect AB Hubbock, it is based at the meeting point of the Klang and Gombak rivers, where the first settlers in Kuala Lumpur arrived. All limbs must be covered and women should wear headscarves.
Kuala Lumpur also has an array of fine Hindu temples. The Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Chinatown is large and colourful and the main meeting point for the city's Hindu population. The temple's entrance, which takes the form of a gate-tower, is stunning too.
The Taoist/Buddhist Thean Hou Temple, which lies some way south of the city centre, is widely regarded as one of Malaysia's most stunning buildings. A statue of the Heavenly Mother, Thean Hou, catches the eye in the main hall and there are many ornate Buddhas to gaze upon throughout. The temple's upper floors offer incredible views while down below, restaurants and gift shops do a roaring trade.
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Things to do
