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Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide

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Kuala Lumpur

Cheap airline tickets and over 50000 rooms in KL alone make it a very popular tourist destination. Kl provides easy and efficient roads as well as air access to destinations like Singapore and Southern Thailand. 

Whether you want to travel by train, road, or sea, Malaysia is a very affordable country to travel to.  I have travelled to KL over 50 times in the last 15 years and explored most of the areas of this interesting city in detail. I have seen Kuala Lumpur evolve over the last decade and enjoy the great cultural mix, culinary experience, and interesting historical places to visit. Here is some useful information I have compiled over the years. 

Kuala Lumpur is a great destination for a family holiday or honeymoon. Explore amazing offers on Accommodation, Tours & Transport. 

These are some of the great reasons to explore this amazing city:

Get Cheap Flights to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the hub of AirAsia one of the largest budget airlines in the work. With thousands of connecting flights routed through KL, it has become a major destination as well as a stopover for many travellers flying to other amazing destinations in ASEAN countries. Planning to travel to KL, find a Cheap Flight  online with JedRadar. Flying from Australia, AirAsia, and Scoot Airlines are offering amazing deals all throughout the year. 

Kuala Lumpur offers Cheap Accommodation

Kuala Lumpur has hundred of cheap budget hotels and hostels in all major tourist areas of the city.  There are more than 50,000 hotel rooms in Kuala Lumpur alone. Check for amazing rates online .

Great road infrastructure in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is connected to all major cities in Malaysia through a major road network. You can drive to Melaka and Ipoh in one hour from KL City. Most popular destinations like Pangkor, Penang, and Taman Negara are easily accessible by road networks. 

Amazing Cultural Diversity

Malaysia has a good mix of Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian populations that add color to the diverse cultural heritage of Malaysia. With Muslim and non-Muslim populations living in perfect harmony, Malaysia is equally attracted to the Muslim population from around the globe as well as foreigners seeking rich cultural and travel experiences. Halal food is easily available in most restaurants across Malaysia. 

Affordability

Malaysia is a relatively affordable destination as compared to its neighbouring countries. Budget-conscious backpackers and young travellers find Malaysia an ideal destination where they can travel for under $30 a day. This is possible due to affordable transport, food, and accommodation available across the country. 

KL Travel Guide Links

Best Areas to Explore in Kuala Lumpur | Transport Guide from KLIA Airport  | Accommodation in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur has since become a hub of ex-pats seeking work and business ventures and travellers who want to explore the mixed culture of South East Asia while enjoying the modern-day facilities, eat-outs, accommodation, and travel destinations. 

The most popular neighbourhoods with tourists in Kuala Lumpur are KLCC (KL  City Center), Bukit Bintang, Masjid India, Chinatown, and Bangsar. The city itself is quite spread out and you will need a good couple to explore KL in detail. Whether your interest is shopping, exploring restaurants, or cultural exploration, all suburbs in Kuala Lumpur have something unique to offer. With an effective transport network, you can travel to most sections of the city hassle-free, as the transport within the city is quite cheap.

 

KL Travel Guide: Interesting Areas of Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur offers a variety of neighborhoods ranging from historical areas giving insights into the interesting history of Kuala Lumpur as well to uptown modern localities representing the modern face of Kuala Lumpur.

Golden Triangle Kuala Lumpur

Golden Tirangle KLCC

For first-timers to Kuala Lumpur, Golden Triangle is a wider area including KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Center) and Bukit Bintang Area in general. 


The Golden Triangle is the heart of tourist activities in the city with the highest concentration of top-notch hotels, international restaurants, shopping malls, and places of interest. 

This area is generally very popular with business travellers, honeymooners, and people seeking accommodation in finer establishments in the city. 

However, you can find hotels and hostels in all price ranges in this area as well. The hotel room rates are relatively higher, costing over $120 for a five-star hotel. 

The light rail transport network connects most of the neighborhoods with the overhead train which is easily accessible from places like Bukit Bintang, Berjaya Times Square, and KLCC.

Where to stay in Golden Triangle?

During my various stay in the Golden Triangle, I have stayed at Traders Hotel by Shangrila (located next to KL Suria), Concorde Hotel, Istana Hotel, and Park Royal Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur. 

Some cheaper options include Furama Hotel ( 4 Star Hotel) and Mesui Hotel (in Bukit Bintang)

Why Golden Triangle in Kuala Lumpur is a great place to stay?

Golden Triangle in Kuala Lumpur has the highest concentration of luxury accommodation, unique restaurants and world-class shopping Malls. Excellent transport facilities connect major tourist hubs in the city center. All modes of transport are quite cheap as the driving distance between most places is around 10-15 minutes at the most. 

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Get Best Hotel Rates in KLCC

Interesting places to visit in KLCC

  • Klcc Park Kuala Lumpur
  • Klcc Park Kuala Lumpur City
  • kLCC KUALA LUMPUR CITY
  • KLCC PARK KUALA LUMPUR
KLCC PARK
KLCC PARK
An oasis in the middle of the Concrete Jungle KLCC Park a great place to relax in the middle of the city. Located adjacent to Twin Towers and KLCC Suria, it is easily accessible by public transport.
EXPLORE KLCC
EXPLORE KLCC
Catch a hop-on hop-off bus to explore the main touristy areas of the city.
KLCC Suria
KLCC Suria
KLCC Suria world-class shopping experience with international fashion outlets, a massive foodcourt, Harrods and number of local brands.

Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur

bukit bintang kuala lumpur

Why Bukit Bintang?

Heart of the tourist experience, Bukit Bintang is a must-visit to experience a hustle and bustle of Jalan Alor, Changkat, and Jalan Ramlee.


Bukit Bintang is a mecca for tourists offering a number of world-class shopping Malls including:
  • Sungei Wang
  • Pavilion Mall
  • Fahrenheit88
  • Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall
  • Lot 10
  • Low Yat Plaza

What makes Bukit Bintang such a special place to stay in Kuala Lumpur?

Jalan Alor, the food street of Bukit Bintang,  hosts the famous food street at night offering an outdoor and indoor dining experience. Restaurants serve a wide range of local dishes ranging from Malaysian, Thai, and Chinese dishes. 

A number of seafood dishes, grilled meats, and noodle dishes cater to western as well as international tastes. 

Tip: Don't miss the grilled chicken wings and satay served at 1-9 Jalan Alor at Wong Ah Wah Restaurant. 

Changkat is the heart of nightlife with places like Pisco Bar, Opium, Havana Bar & Grill, and Rockstar amongst others entertaining party-goers till the early hours of the morning. 

Slip into one of the massage places or foot reflexology centers to enjoy a relaxing foot massage for under RM 50. 

During my various stays in Bukit Bintang, I stayed at Hotel Istana, ParkRoyal Serviced Apartments, and Hotel Mesui. 

These hotels are highly recommended due to their quality service & proximity to most places of interest in Bukit Bintang.

Bukit Bintang is definitely a place if you love commotion and activity and want to enjoy the active nightlife in Kualqa Lumpur City. 
  • Pavilion KL
  • Movida Bukit Bintang
  • Movida Bukit Bintang
  • Berjaya Times Square Bukit Binting

Bangsar and South Bangsar Area

visit bangsar in kuala lumpur

Exploring Bangsar in Kuala Lumpur

Bangsar Village is one of the most popular places to visit for food lovers. A number of new trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants make Bangsar a popular spot with a young, hype crowd.

The adjoining suburbs of Mount Kiera and Damansara are popular with the ex-pat population and therefore, Bangsar caters to the affluent segment of the population in Kuala Lumpur.

Bangsar Village area is a U-shaped market with plenty of local eateries and westernized outlets. Bangsar Village Shopping Mall is also a great place to shop and enjoy local food. 

During my previous stay in KL, I booked Ve Hotel and Residences in South Bangsar. The establishment offers serviced apartment-styled accommodation which is ideal for a family or solo holiday. 

[Read more about my stay in Bangsar in 2022]

The Sphere Shopping Mall is located next to the Ve Hotel and houses a number of quality cafes and restaurants. 

Bangsar South is definitely the emerging face of Kuala Lumpur and offers modern amenities and a lifestyle.

Some popular places to stay in Bangsar South include:
  • Pavilion KL
  • Movida Bukit Bintang
  • Bangsar Village Mall
  • Mahbub at Bangsar Village
EXPLORE CHANGKAT BUKIT BINTANG
EXPLORE CHANGKAT BUKIT BINTANG
Heart of nightlife with plenty of bars, night clubs, cafes and restaurants.
JALAN ALOR
JALAN ALOR
Enjoy flavours of Malaysia at the famous food street.
WHERE TO STAY?
WHERE TO STAY?
Book some of the most popular and best hotels in Kuala Lumpur

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Popular Day tours from Kuala Lumpur

 How to travel from Kuala Lumpur Airport to the City Center

There are several ways to travel to KL City Center and the Bukit Bintang area from the Airport: 

Private Airport Transfers from KLIA/KLIA2

The easiest way to travel from both KLIA and KLIA2 airports is to book PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFERS online. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to travel to your hotel in Kuala Lumpur City.  

Travel from Kuala Lumpur Airport to Kuala Lumpur City By Bus 

Travelling by bus is by far the cheapest way to travel to KL Sentral which is the hub of all transport in Kuala Lumpur.  You can catch KTM commuter for intercity train transport, KL Light rail for access to various areas of Kuala Lumpur as well as catch connecting buses to various locations in the city.  The ticket cost around RM 10  and it takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach KL Sentral. 
 

Transport Services in Kuala Lumpur

Klook.com
 

Essential Tour & Activities in Kuala Lumpur 

If you are planning to travel intercity by Bus you should catch a shuttle for KLIA to BTS (Terminal Berespadu Selatan) the main bus station that provides access to all major cities including Johor Bharu, Kota Bharu, Penang, Kuantan, and Terengganu, etc. 
 
BTS is a world-class facility with hotels, restaurants, cafes, and 24-hour booking counters. I used this terminal several times for catching the bus from KL to Kuantan and KL to Ipoh. 
 
 
KL Sentral is located in the heart of the city and the hub of KTM (connects KL with suburbs in KLANG valley), KTM intercity is the train network connecting Kuala Lumpur and other major cities with Singapore in the South and Thailand in the north. More information is available on this link.
 
KL Sentral also provides lockers for long-term and short-term storage. This locker facility is much cheaper than on KLIA and KLIA2. Areas located close to KL Sentral include Masjid India, KL Park, and Brickfields. 
 
 
A number of luxury, as well as budget hotels, are located around KL Sentral making this locality an ideal place to stay in the heart of the city. Check Rates Online with Agoda .
 
 
1. By Train ( KLExpress) 

Note

Here is a list of KL's essential activities. Book online and Save $$$$.

KLExpress is the quickest way to reach KLIA, KLIA2, and Putrajaya from KL Sentral. The ticket, however, is around RM 58. It takes only 28 minutes to reach KLIA from KL Sentral using KLExpress. Onboard Wi-fi is available free of cost making this trip quite enjoyable. If you are running short on time or catching a flight in peak hours, KLExpress is the best way to reach KLIA.  

Some useful Transport Links In Kuala Lumpur 
2. Catch a taxi from KLIA to Kuala Lumpur City
 
Taxi is the second-best option after KLExpress. It is most convenient for locations like KLCC and Bukit Bintang as if you are carrying bags, switching trains from KL Sentral can be hectic at times as you will need to climb up the stairs at most Light Rail Stations.
 
Premier Taxi at KLIA - Kuala Lumpur travel guide
Premier Taxis at KLIA
 
There are two types of Taxis:
 
1. Metered Taxi from KLIA to Kuala Lumpur City
You can catch this taxi froM the ground floor of KLIA Airport. The fare is charged by the meter. If you are familiar with the directions and know how much it costs to reach your destination there can be no issue. A tourist or unwary traveller might be in for a rip-off. Late-night rates are much higher than the regular taxi fare rates in the morning. 
 
2. Fix Priced Taxi
Walk up to the taxi coupon counter and get a price for either a red taxi if you do not have many bags. Premier taxis are a bit costly and can take up to five passengers and bags. These are blue-coloured large taxis often SUVs. 
 
3. Private Car Charter for a day or extended period
Another convenient way to explore Kuala Lumpur is to charter a private car online . This saves the hassle of driving in an unknown area and enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned car driven by a professional driver. 
 
A small taxi from KLIA to Bukit Bintang costs around RM 80. Premier taxi costs from RM 120-140.   
 

3. Renting a Car at Kuala Lumpur Airport

Renting a car is probably the easiest way to travel in Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas. There are a number of services available on arrival on the ground floor at KLIA2 Airport. To get the best possible rates to book online in advance. 
 
 
Kuala Lumpur travel guide - KLIA
Car rental booths at KLIA2
 
Ridesharing Applications: GRAB
 
Download and install the GRAB application. Uber does not operate in Malaysia. Grab fare from KLIA to the city is around RM 70.
 

Cheap Hotels in Kuala Lumpur City

Kuala Lumpur offers plenty of cheap hotels for budget-conscious travelers. The average 2-3 star hotel ranges from $25-$30 per night. Most affordable hotels are located around KL Sentral, Brickfields, and the Jamek Masjid area.
 
In late 2022 I stayed for two weeks in Kuala Lumpur and booked budget hotels in the Chinatown area. I highly recommend these two hotels which offer quality accommodation and very easy access to most places of interest in the old part of Kuala Lumpur
 
 
 
Some quality budget and boutique hotels also KLCC, Bukit Bintang , and Bangsar Area. These areas are comparatively more expensive because of modern architecture and location close to the most popular places in KL.  
 
If you are exploring some quality budget hotels in Kuala read more about my Stay in Budget Hotels in Kuala Lumpur .  
 

Stay in Malaysia with Homestay

malaysia homestay stay with family
 
 
Serviced Apartments in Kuala Lumpur
 
Serviced Apartments are a better option if you are traveling with family. Serviced apartments offer more space and bigger better amenities. When travelling with family I prefer to stay at Serviced Apartments in and around Bukit Bintang. Most family holidaymakers from the middle east travel with large groups and prefer to stay at 2-3 bedroom serviced apartments in Bukit Bintang. 
 
Read online about my stay in some of the Best Serviced Apartments in Kuala Lumpur . 
 
 
Other useful content on the website to plan an amazing holiday in Malaysia 

Conclusion

Kuala Lumpur is one of the most traveled destinations in South-East Asia. With over 29 million visitors in 2018 alone, the city caters to a wide range of international visitors from digital nomads to honeymooners and families. Planning your trip in advance can save you a substantial amount of time and money. Booking your hotels and tours in advance can help you save over 20-30% over the markup price. Last-minute walk-in rates at the hotel are always higher than the ones advertised online. Kuala Lumpur stays one of my all-time favorite cities to visit in Malaysia and I suggest you plan your next stopover in KL if you are planning to explore the ASEAN region. 

This Kuala Lumpur travel guide will help you plan your transport, tours, and accommodation when visiting Kuala Lumpur. 

 

 
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