Kuala Lumpur has created a range of extraordinary and exclusive attractions that combine Eastern and Western elements and also showcase local handicrafts. Chief among these are Sultan Abdul Samad Moorish, the Jamek Mosque, the National Library, etc. Check out the list below of the top tourist sights in Kuala Lumpur:
1) Performing Arts Costume Gallery
The Performing Arts Costume Gallery is to be found within the premises of the Istana Budaya National Theater. It has a permanent exhibition of costumes used in traditional Malaysian theater. Visitors are usually amazed to see these exotic clothes that speak of a different civilization. Entrance is free.
2) Istana Budaya
If you love theatre and enjoy an evening filled with drama, music and dance, then the Istana Budaya is the place for you. Home to the National Theatre Company and the National Symphony Orchestra, the Istana Budaya, is the cultural hub of Kuala Lumpur.
After over 30 years of contemplating over the cultural center for the city, the Istana Budaya finally took form in 1999. Although it took far longer than anticipated, the result was surely worth the wait. Istana Budaya, which literally translates to the Palace of Culture, is no less than any palace!
Designed by local architect, Muhammad Kamar Ya'akub; the building, its innovative structure, fantastic interiors and state of the art stage and theatre has won accolades from all over the world. In fact, the Istana Budaya is regarded as the first theatre building in Asia that has been given so much thought and has raised the bar for building theatres to an altogether new level. Compared to the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Istana Budaya is definitely a symbol of pride in Kuala Lumpur.
The Istana Budaya has a distinct shape of the “sirih junjung” the traditional arrangement of betel leaves used during ceremonies, which makes it conspicuous in the skyline of Kuala Lumpur. With interiors reflecting different shades of the Malay culture, the building is definitely worth the visit.
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3) Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia
The Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia is inherent with various utilities held up by very sophisticated services to offer the best it can provide to the community. The design of the Perpustakaan Negara was inspired from the traditional Malay head covering which represents delight and high opinion of the nation’s traditions. It also is a symbol of the harmony of the country. Visitors are recommended to give out several hours to go round the numerous divisions and intellectual stuff the Perpustakaan Negara.
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4) Galeri Petronas
This novel art gallery puts forward a vibrant line of exhibitions, including all kinds of art. It was founded in 1993 and since then it has hosted various exhibitions which have been much admired for their originality. It exhibits both national and international art. The art displayed in the gallery includes crafts, figurines, pictures, illustrations, fabrics, and ceramic objects.
5) Petrosains
One of the main attractions in the Petronas Towers is the Petrosains, a museum that enlightens visitors about the fascinating world of science, geology and the petroleum industry. The museum is open all day throughout the week with the exception of Fridays when it does not open till 1 in the afternoon.
Working in collaboration with the European Collaborative for Science Industry and Technology Exhibitions (ECSITE), The Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology (ASPAC) and the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC), this fascinating museum does the best job in bringing the audiences closer to science and technology. With live science demonstrations and interactive exhibits, the Petrosains Museum is a hit with all ages. Get to observe the model of the Sauber PETRONAS Formula One racing car, after which dive straight into the dense rainforests of Malaysia and experience what it is to be close to an active volcano along with models of some extinct species that once roamed the face of the earth at the Geotime Diorama. Other exhibits also include great insights into the petroleum industry and its benefits to society and the Petrojaya, a replica of a village with hi tech gadgets in cartoon forms. The Petrosains is definitely a fun visit for all ages!
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6) Menara Kuala Lumpur
Built at the heart of the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur is the slender tower of Kuala Lumpur or the Menara Kuala Lumpur. Surrounded by trees and a lush forest, the Tower actually resides in the heart of the forest reserve of the city. Inaugurated by the Prime Minister, YAB Dato Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, in 1996, the Tower took four years to complete.
The main reason for creating this stunning slender piece of engineering and architecture was facilitating the telecommunications and broadcasting power of the city. The Menara stands just fifth in rank for the world’s tallest structures. Soaring at a height of 421 m or 1,381 ft., inclusive of the antenna, the Menara is perched atop the Bukit Nana which is 94m above sea level, making it reach higher than the Petronas Towers.
Although the Tower stands amidst the forest reserve, grave pains were taken to see to it that the construction of the Menara did not affect the reserve. In fact, a RM 430,000 wall was constructed around the oldest tree to protect it.
The Tower is open from 9 o'clock in the morning until 10 o'clock in the evening during which time the visitors can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Kuala Lumpur.
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7) Victoria Institution Clock Tower
Victoria Institution is one of the oldest schools in Kuala Lumpur. It is believed to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It owns an impressive album of illustrations. Most of it is made up of pictures collected from diverse sources - school periodicals, numerous personal collections and the National Archives. Besides illustrations, there are also oil paintings, line drawings, cartoons etc.
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8) Jamek Mosque
Situated in a palm tree forest, the Masjid Jamek is the most wonderful mosque in Kuala Lumpur. Constructed in 1907, the mosque is a serene construction of onion cupolas and minarets of encrusted crimson and the finest bricks. It was designed by a British architect, who was inspired by some mosques in India. Visitors are recommended to respect the policy regarding clothing and etiquette, which is put up at the doorway. They are required to take off their shoes and be properly dressed.
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9) Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Sultan Abdul Samad Building has been a major attraction for Kuala Lumpur. The building was raised in 1897. The building takes its name from Sultan Abdul Samad, who was the governing sultan of Selangor at the time. The building was projected to accommodate various central government departments.
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10) Dataran Merdeka
Dataran Merdeka, or the Merdeka square, is a historic site that has a special place in the heart of every citizen of Malaysia. On your visit to Kuala Lumpur, you are bound to visit the Merdeka Square for it is surrounded by some very significant historic landmarks and some very prominent buildings.
Situated in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, at the Dataran Merdeka, one can enjoy the sight of this regal, Moorish style building. The story behind the Merdeka square goes to the time long before the independence of Malaysia.
Built as a symbol of the sovereignty of the British Empire, the Merdeka Square was used as the ground to play one of England’s most beloved games, cricket. Overseeing the square was the Selangor Club which was a British club that was exclusively for the whites during the colonial period.
Ironically, what represented the domination of the British Empire in the state went on to become the very place where the Malaysian National Flag was first raised. On the midnight of 31 August 1957, the Union Jack went down and for the first time the Malayan Flag soared in the skies of the free land. This is also why the square is called Independence Square. Every year, the Independence Day celebrations are held at the Dataran Merdeka.
What once used to be a cricket ground during the time when Malaysia was still a British colony, today is the symbol of independence for the people of the nation.
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