The Perfect 5-Day Kuala Lumpur Travel Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

If you are visiting Malaysia soon, this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary is the perfect guide for first-time visitors to the city.

Kuala Lumpur is the heart, soul, and bustling capital of Malaysia. It’s a melting pot of many cultures and showcases a vibrant blend of cuisines, and attractions. There are so many things to do in Kuala Lumpur, from towering skyscrapers to colonial architecture, and bustling markets to tranquil parks, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. It’s a city where you can spend a few days exploring or a city that will occupy you for a few weeks. This was my third visit to Kuala Lumpur. My last visit was over a decade ago and while so much had changed, there was still a sense of familiarness.

When planning a trip to Malaysia, you will most likely have to pick the locations you want to spend time in. And while we have many comprehensive guides on the places to visit in Malaysia, we strongly recommend spending a few days in the capital city. There’s a high chance you may end up flying into Kuala Lumpur as it’s one of the hubs in Southeast Asia. You could spend as little as 2 days in the city, but 5 days in Kuala Lumpur will see you cover some of the city’s top attractions without feeling too rushed.

In this guide, we outline a perfect 5-day itinerary to help you explore the best Kuala Lumpur offers. Additionally, we’ll cover the best foods to eat, how many days you need to fully enjoy the city, the ideal times to visit, and the most convenient ways to get around. So, read this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary, and you’ll be all set for your upcoming trip.

Why you should visit Kaula Lumpur?

• As we mentioned, KL is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and incredible attractions. With plenty of things to do, there’s not a dull moment in the city.
• We would visit Kuala Lumpur for the food alone 😊
• Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the most iconic landmarks like Petronas Twin Towers and Batu Caves.
• Shopping is incredible, from luxury brands to outlet malls, there’s something for everyone!

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The Perfect 5-Day Kuala Lumpur Travel Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park, Suria KLCC, Jalon Alor Night Market, Rooftop Bar

Day 2: Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Chinatown

Day 3: Thean Hou Temple, KL Forest Eco Park, KL Tower, Food Tour or Cooking Class

Day 4: Botanical Gardens, Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, National Mosque of Malaysia, Little India

Day 5: Shopping and exploring Bukit Bintang, departure

The Perfect 5-Day Kuala Lumpur Travel Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

If you are wondering what to do in Kuala Lumpur, we’ve got you covered. This itinerary is based on you arriving in Kuala Lumpur on day 1 in the morning and departing on day 5 in the evening. Feel free to move or change things around to suit your time in this incredible city. Our friends and family have used this itinerary and have found it very useful.

Day 1: Arrival and explore the iconic landmarks of Kuala Lumpur

Morning: Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park

Kickstart your Kuala Lumpur adventure with a visit to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Standing at 452 meters, these twin skyscrapers were once the tallest buildings in the world. Head up to the Skybridge on the 41st floor and the Observation Deck on the 86th floor for a breathtaking view of the city skyline. It’s one of the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur and a must-see on this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary.

Note: It’s best to book tickets in advance as they allocate a set number of tickets per day. You may also want to come back to the towers one night as it’s one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur at night. The Petronas Towers are beautifully illuminated and are a sight not to be missed.

This KL City Tour covers some of the main tourist attractions on this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary including places like Batu Caves, Petronas Towers, Chinatown, Merdeka Square, Central Market

Afternoon: KLCC Park and Suria KLCC

You’re probably getting hungry now. After enjoying the panoramic views, make your way to Suria KLCC, a premier shopping mall located at the base of the Petronas Towers (handy isn’t it!). The mall boasts a wide array of dining options, from local Malaysian cuisine to international favorites. After lunch, take some time to explore the mall’s luxury boutiques, high-street stores, and specialty shops. It will give you a chance to cool down from the afternoon heat.

When you’re ready take a stroll in the adjacent KLCC Park. You’ll find a playground, fountains, walking paths, and even a wading pool here. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the greenery amidst the urban jungle.

Note: If you are traveling to Kuala Lumpur with kids you may like to visit Aquaria KLCC. Next, located within the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. This state-of-the-art oceanarium is home to over 5,000 marine creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful coral fish. The underwater tunnel offers a unique and immersive experience, making you feel as if you’re walking on the ocean floor.

Evening: Jalan Alor Night Market

As the sun sets, make your way to Jalan Alor, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most famous food streets. The vibrant night market comes alive with numerous food stalls and restaurants serving a variety of local delicacies. Indulge in dishes like Satay (grilled skewered meat), and Char Kway Teow (stir-fried flat noodles). The lively atmosphere and vast variety of food make for an unforgettable dining experience.

You can finish day 1 with a leisurely walk around Bukit Bintang, the city’s bustling shopping and entertainment district. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, cafes, and street performances. You can also make your way to one of the city’s many rooftop bars, Heli Lounge or The SKY Bar, are popular ones located in the heart of the city. It’s a great way to experience Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife

Day 2: Cultural and Historical Highlights

Morning: Batu Caves

You’ll begin your day with an early morning trip to one of the top tourist attractions in Malaysia, Batu Caves. This limestone hill houses a series of caves and cave temples. The main attraction is the Temple Cave, which is accessible via a 272-step climb. At the base of the steps stands a colossal statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war. The cave’s interior is adorned with Hindu shrines and statues, and the view from the top is worth the climb. Don’t skip this visit as it’s one of the best things to do on this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary and probably one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

Notes:

• Batu Caves opens around 6 am. This is one of the busiest attractions in Kuala Lumpur so to avoid crowds and the intense heat later in the day, aim to get between 7.00 and 8.00 am.
• You can get to Batu Caves by public transport or take a Grab directly to the area.
• If you don’t physically feel fine to climb the stairs, take in the view from down below.
• Cover your knees and shoulders as this is a religious site.
• The main temple, cave temple, and Lord Murugan statue are all free to enter and view. There is a small cost to enter Ramayan Cave
• Avoid visiting during weekends and public holidays.

If you skipped breakfast this morning, you can make your way to a Nasi Kandar to grab some delicious and well-priced Malaysian food for brunch.

Afternoon: Merdeka Square and Sultan Abdul Samad Building

In the afternoon you’ll explore Merdeka Square, a historical site where Malaysia declared its independence in 1957. The square is surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings, including the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Take a moment to appreciate the spectacular Moorish and Islamic architecture displaying intricate facades and a clock tower.

It may be worthwhile to book a guided tour to get a better understanding of the significance of this area and the journey to Malaysia’s freedom.

If you get hungry, the area around Merdeka Square has several eateries offering local cuisine. But don’t fill yourself too much as you’ll be having dinner at Petaling Street.

Evening: Chinatown and Central Market

As evening sets in, head to Chinatown and traverse through the vibrant streets. Stop by the captivating Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Visit Central Market where you’ll find a wide range of Malaysian handicrafts, artworks, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs.

For dinner, head to Petaling Street in Chinatown, a bustling market area known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food. Sample food from various places so you can try an array of dishes. You’ll find some local favorites like Hokkien Mee (thick noodles in a rich soy sauce), Asam laksa (spicy and sour fish-based noodle soup), and roasted chestnuts. This area comes to life in the evenings and is a perfect way to end your cultural and historical exploration on this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary.

Day 3: Culture, Nature, and Modern Attractions

Morning: Thean Hou Temple

Hopefully, you have enjoyed your first two days in Kuala Lumpur so far and have been able to adjust to the humidity.

On day 3 you’ll visit Thean Hou Temple, one of the oldest and largest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. The temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea, features stunning architecture with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the city make it a perfect spot to unwind and reflect.

Thean Hou Temple is a bit further out from the city center. It’s best to take a Grab to this location and aim to be there by 9 am. Like most tourist attractions this temple also gets quite busy. You’ll see a lot of married couples taking photos.

Afternoon: KL Forest Eco Park

The KL Forest Eco Park, nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is an oasis amid the bustling cityscape. This urban jungle is a sanctuary for biodiversity, offering visitors a serene retreat and a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich natural heritage. With its lush greenery, towering trees, and well-maintained trails, the park provides a haven for both wildlife and city dwellers seeking a respite from urban life.

Its elevated canopy walkway allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the tropical rainforest, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. The KL Forest Eco Park stands as a testament to Malaysia’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable urban development, preserving a slice of natural beauty amidst the modern metropolis.

Evening: Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL)

Next head to Kuala Lumpur Tower, one of the tallest telecommunications towers in the world. The tower’s observation deck offers panoramic views of the city including the Petronas Twin Towers. The revolving restaurant provides a unique dining experience with a 360-degree view. You can choose to have lunch here or head to a local Malaysian restaurant to grab some food after you take in the views. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Sky Box, a glass box extending from the deck, for a thrilling perspective of the city below.

You can finish off the night with a food tour around the city or even better, take a cooking class so you can learn to cook some of the Malaysian delicacies.

You can also look into this night tour of Kuala Lumpur which includes highlights like the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, and Petaling Street Market.

Note: If you’d prefer to skip Thean Hou Temple, you can spend the day at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park. Whether you are traveling to Kuala Lumpur with kids or by yourself, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park has some fun and excitement for everyone. This multi-park attraction is located just outside the city and features a water park, amusement park, wildlife park, and more, catering to all ages and interests. Whether you’re seeking thrilling rides, water slides, or animal encounters, Sunway Lagoon offers an afternoon of adventure and entertainment.

Day 4: Nature and Culture

Morning: Perdana Botanical Garden

Your last full day in Kuala Lumpur has a mix of nature and cultural spots in the city. You’ll begin the day with a visit to Perdana Botanical Gardens while the temperatures are still relatively moderate. This park features theme gardens, lakes, and walking trails. Highlights include the Orchid Garden, Hibiscus Garden, and the picturesque Sunken Garden. This attraction is one of the fun things to do in KL. It’s a perfect spot to spend a morning relaxing after a few days of being on the go while sightseeing around Kuala Lumpur. Pick up some Malaysian coffee and breakfast on your way and have a lovely little picnic before you move on to your next destination.

Afternoon: Islamic Arts Museum and National Mosque of Malaysia

Not far from the Botanical Gardens, you’ll find the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia which houses an impressive collection of Islamic art from around the world. The museum’s stunning architecture and diverse exhibits, including calligraphy, textiles, jewelry, and manuscripts, provide a fascinating insight into Islamic culture and history.

Right next to the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, you’ll find the National Mosque of Malaysia, also known as Masjid Negara. The Mosque stands as a significant symbol of Islamic architecture and unity in Malaysia. It features a modernist design with Islamic influences and can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers. It is renowned for its striking 73-meter-tall minaret and a large central dome adorned with a starburst motif. Surrounded by reflecting pools and lush gardens, Masjid Negara is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that welcomes visitors from around the world to admire its serene beauty and architectural splendor.

Evening: Little India (Brickfields)

In the evening, make your way to explore Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur’s Little India. This vibrant area is characterized by colorful shops, Indian restaurants, and cultural sights. Try some authentic Indian cuisine for dinner, such as biryani (spiced rice with meat or vegetables), dosas (crispy rice pancakes), and samosas (deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat). The lively atmosphere and delicious food make for a memorable dining experience.

Note: If you are traveling to Kuala Lumpur with kids, you can opt to spend day 4 of your trip at Sunway Lagoon, a theme park with 5 adventure zones; water park, wildlife park, amusement park, scream park, and extreme park. You can get to Sunway Lagoon from KL City by train.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning: Bukit Bintang and Pavilion KL

Your last day will be spent relaxing, shopping, and exploring Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur’s premier shopping and entertainment hub. Start at Pavilion KL, a luxurious shopping mall with a wide range of international and local brands. The mall’s elegant design and extensive retail options make it a shopper’s paradise.

Afternoon: Berjaya Times Square

Continue your shopping spree at Berjaya Times Square, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. The mall features over 1,000 retail outlets, an indoor amusement park, and a wide array of dining options. It’s a great place to find last-minute souvenirs, snag some great bargains, and enjoy some indoor entertainment. Just make sure you keep a spare suitcase to pack all your last-minute purchases.

Evening: Departure Preparation

As your trip comes to an end, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a nearby restaurant and prepare for your departure. Take some time to look back on the last few days in Kuala Lumpur. Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed your time in this dynamic city.

Final thoughts on this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary

Kuala Lumpur is a fabulous city that has a mix of culture, architecture, nature, great shopping, and of course delicious food.

In this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary, we’ve listed some of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur and grouped them together in the best way that we can so you can make the most of your 5 days in the city. From one of the tallest buildings in the world to delectable cuisine and great shopping, this city truly has it all and we have no doubt you’re going to have an incredible time.

If you have further questions about Kuala Lumpur leave us a note in the comments or send us an email and we’ll endeavour to get back to you as soon as we can.

Happy Travels!

Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide – Tips for a great trip to Malaysia’s capital city

For your upcoming trip, refer to this Kuala Lumpur travel guide which includes the best time to visit KL, getting around the city, the best areas to stay, foods to try, and shopping in KL!

Best Time to Visit Kuala Lumpur

The weather in Kuala Lumpur is warm and humid throughout the year. The city is a fantastic year-round destination, but the best time to visit is generally during the dry season, June to August, and December to February. During these months, the city experiences less rainfall, allowing for more pleasant and comfortable outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city.

However, Kuala Lumpur has a tropical rainforest-like climate with high humidity for most of the year. So you could experience a little rain during the dry season too.

We visited in December and January. For the most part, we had good weather. However, there were the odd occasions when it would be sunny one minute and then pour down the next. The good thing is the rain only lasted about 30 minutes on every occasion which meant we could continue on with our day of sightseeing.

It’s preferable to stay clear of the monsoon seasons, March to April and September to November. However, if you are looking to travel during off-peak periods and take advantage of lower hotel rates and fewer tourists, this might be a budget-friendly period for you to visit.

Getting Around Kuala Lumpur

We mostly used Grab (the equivalent of Uber in Malaysia) to get around the city as it made sense for us to travel as a family of 4. Highly recommend downloading the Grab app as it’s a convenient and inexpensive way to get around the city.

Kuala Lumpur also has a comprehensive and efficient transportation system. The city boasts an extensive network of trains, buses, and taxis. The RapidKL system, which includes the LRT (Light Rail Transit), MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), and monorail, is a convenient way to navigate major areas and landmarks. There is also the option of buses like the Go KL City Bus which offers free rides to key tourist destinations. (check beforehand) It has four circular routes around the city, with buses running every 5 minutes during peak times and every 10 minutes at other times.

You may also choose to walk around central areas with well-maintained sidewalks and crossings, making it easy to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and attractions.

The Kuala Lumpur sightseeing bus is a great way to see some of the city’s attractions highlighted in this 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary.

Getting from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to the city center

There are a few options to get from KLIA to the city center.

Train: Traffic in Kuala Lumpur can be a bit crazy especially if you are traveling during peak hours. The KLIA Ekspres gets you to the city in just under 30 minutes. It usually departs every 15 – 30 minutes depending on the time of the day and costs around MYR RM55.

Bus: There are a few bus services to various locations around Kuala Lumpur. Some depart the airport every 30 minutes. Buses will generally take the longest to get you to your accommodation. Unless you are absolutely on a budget we wouldn’t really recommend this option.

Taxi: You can buy pre–paid taxi vouchers at arrivals. The price will vary depending on where your accommodation is. Metered taxis are also available outside the terminal, but you’ll need to buy a coupon from the airport counter prior to boarding one. There’s a 50% surcharge between 12 am and 6 am.

Grab: Download the Grab app and pre-book your vehicle to take you straight to your accommodation.

Best Areas to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

We always believe choosing the right area to stay can enhance your experience of a city’s vibrant culture and attractions. So here are some tips to help you choose a neighborhood that’s perfect for your 5-day Kuala Lumpur travel itinerary.

For first-time visitors: We stayed in Bukit Bintang on both occasions and loved this area. It’s undeniably the best and most convenient area to stay in Kuala Lumpur. It’s well known for its bustling nightlife, diverse dining options, and high-end shopping malls like Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. You’ll find lots of serviced apartments and mid-range accommodation in the area.

Upscale: If you are looking for a more upscale experience, KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) offers luxury hotels and stunning views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. This area is a hub for cultural activities, entertainment, and shopping.

Budget Accommodation: Brickfields, also known as Kuala Lumpur’s Little India, offers a variety of affordable accommodations and is a good option for budget-conscious travelers. It is also well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore the city.

The area around Chinatown’s Petaling Street also has some more budget-friendly options.

How many days do you need in Kuala Lumpur?

For the best experience, we’d recommend spending at least 5 days (4 nights) in Kuala Lumpur as there’s so much to do! You could probably see the highlights in 2-3 days, but you might find yourself rushing around. If you had more time in Kuala Lumpur you could also take some great day trips.

Malaysian Currency

The currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR or RM). You will need cash at markets and local restaurants.

Shopping in Kuala Lumpur

If this is your first time in Kuala Lumpur, malls and shopping in general are going to blow you away. You’ll find everything from designer stores, brand outlets, to stalls on the streets in Chinatown. Hopefully, you’ve traveled with a checked-in bag that isn’t too heavy. Be prepared to shop till you drop. This 5-day Kuala Lumpur Travel Itinerary ensures you have sufficient time to hit the shops.

Here are some top places to shop in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur’s Malls

The shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur are something else. Firstly, there are so many of them so you’ll really need to pick and choose which ones you want to go to. Secondly the variety of shops from local to luxury brands, will blow your mind. Here are some of the best shopping malls to visit in Kuala Lumpur

• Pavilion KL: This is an upmarket shopping mall with high-end luxury stores located in Bukit Bintang
• Suria Mall KLCC: This mall is located at the base of Petronas Twin Towers and also has high-end luxury stores. The food court at this mall is excellent if you are looking for some good food.
• Berjaya Times Square: This mall has 10 storeys and over 700 stores. You’ll find several food stores, game arcades, an indoor theme park (Berjaya Times Square Theme Park), and a cinema in this mall. You’ll find great deals on clothes and accessories at this mall, with tops for women starting from as low as 8 NZD, and kids’ clothes as low as 5 NZD.
• Lot 10 Mall: Slightly smaller mall with a few budget brands
• Sunway Pyramid: This Egyptian-themed mall is located right next to Sunway Lagoon theme park in Bandar Sunway. You’ll find some upper-end brands like Coach. Timberland, and Mango at this mall. The mall also has a cinema and an ice skating rink.
• Starhill Gallery: This luxury mall is connected to the JW Marriot Kuala Lumpur and is right across the road from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
• Plaza Low Yat: This commercial shopping center is well known for its electronic stores and gadgets. They have a massive variety here.
• The Gardens Malls: Once again you’ll find a plethora of luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Michael Kors, amongst many others at this mall.

Petaling Street and Chinatown

The famous Petaling Street is located in the heart of Chinatown. The open-air market opens at 10 but most vendors start setting up their stalls mid to late afternoon. The market really comes to life in the evenings. You’ll find everything from clothes, shoes, electronics, accessories, and of course food here.

Give your bargaining skills a go at the myriad of stalls selling different goods. And when you are ready to take a break from all the shopping, head to one of the many food stalls around the market. You can find delicacies like Hokkien Mee, curry noodles, Laksa, chicken rice, and even some Madam tang Muah Chee (glutinous rice balls coated with peanuts)

Central Market is located about 5 minutes from Petaling Street. Here you’ll find an array of goods from bags, clothes, jewelry, and stunning handcrafted Malaysian goods. As these markets are located in Chinatown, there are plenty of Chinese shops and street food vendors. If you like visiting temples, you’ll find a few around this area.

You can catch a train or a Grab to get to this area and can spend hours shopping and haggling here! It’s a lively atmosphere with plenty to see and do in the area.

Little India (Indian Quarter)

Walking through the Indian quarter of Kuala Lumpur is a lovely experience. Little India is a vibrant, colourful, and deliciously smelling area of Kuala Lumpur filled with many shops selling traditional Indian outfits, and spices along with restaurants serving delicious Indian food.

You can find everything from clothes, handbags, fragrances amongst many other things in this area. If you are looking for tailored Indian clothing, this is definitely the place to visit. You can find handmade and embroidered clothes from as low as 10NZD. I highly recommend visiting Little India to anyone who has an interest in shopping for Indian stuff. The prices are fairly reasonable, and you can haggle a little if you want. The Indian Quarter is fairly large, so allow some time to walk through the streets.

Things to consider buying in Malaysia

• Spices: Almost all markets and some shopping malls will sell spices. Some of the best places to buy spices while shopping in Kuala Lumpur are Petaling Street, Chow Kit Market, and Jalan Masjid India Market.

Tips for shopping in Kuala Lumpur

• Most malls are indoors and provide shelter and air conditioning. There are however some that are not sheltered, so ensure you carry a hat and sunscreen to protect you from the hot temperatures.
• You can bargain and some of the markets or budget malls but just don’t push the barging too much.
• Don’t wear or flaunt expensive stuff, especially if you are in areas where you are going to try and bargain.

We can only comment on all the places we visited – but we hope our experiences will be able to assist you in one of the great shopping capitals of the world.

Happy Shopping!

Best Foods to Try in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a culinary paradise and is known for its vibrant food scene with a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. You’ll find a rich tapestry of flavors from its diverse cultural heritage. Here are some must-try foods in Kuala Lumpur:

Nasi Lemak

Nasi lemak is a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal (spicy chili paste), fried crispy anchovies, toasted peanuts, boiled egg, and cucumber. It’s a hearty and delicious meal that can be found in most local eateries and is often considered the national dish of Malaysia,

Char Kway Teow

This popular noodle dish is made with flat rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, cockles, Chinese lap cheong sausage, eggs, and bean sprouts, all tossed in a savory soy sauce. You’ll find it on almost all menus and is a must-try, especially for noodle enthusiasts.

Roti Canai

A beloved Indian-Malay flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s typically served with dhal (lentil curry) or a variety of curries and is popularly enjoyed for breakfast in Malaysia.

Satay

Grilled skewers of meat (usually chicken or beef) served with a rich peanut sauce. Satay is a popular street food and makes for a great appetizer or snack.

Hainanese Chicken Rice

This dish features tender poached chicken served with fragrant rice, accompanied by a flavorful broth and a side of chili sauce and garlic ginger paste. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal.

Laksa

A spicy noodle soup with a rich, creamy coconut milk base, typically served with prawns, chicken, or fish. There are many different variations of this dish.

Rendang

A rich and flavorful dry curry made with beef or chicken, slow-cooked with coconut milk. The curry base consists of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, and chili. It’s incredibly delicious with some roti. Probably one of our favorite Malaysian dishes to eat.

Murtabak

Another one of our favorite things to eat (we have lots of favorites 😊). Stuffed roti filled with minced protein (chicken, beef, or tofu), eggs, and onions, often served with curry sauce.

Cendol

A refreshing dessert made with coconut milk, shaved ice, green rice flour jelly noodles, and palm sugar syrup. We weren’t the biggest fans but seems to be a very popular dessert.

Apam Balik

Malaysian-style pancake with crispy edges and a soft center filled with crushed peanuts, sugar, and sometimes corn. It is delicious. You can find mini versions of them.

Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh: A pork rib dish cooked in broth with herbs and spices, usually served with rice and youtiao (Chinese fried dough).

Nasi Goreng Kampung

Spicy fried rice cooked with anchovies, and topped with a fried egg.

Durian

Known as the “king of fruits,” durian is a divisive fruit with a strong odor and a creamy, custard-like texture that many Malaysians love. We tried some, and it just wasn’t for us.

Teh Tarik

Malaysian pulled tea, made with strong black tea and condensed milk, frothed up by pouring it between two containers. You’ll find this on most menus. It’s great to have at breakfast time with some Roti Canai or Dosas.

Kuih

An assortment of Malaysian sweets and pastries made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar.

Our top 5 things to do in Kuala Lumpur

If you are short on time, or only have a day and are passing through Kuala Lumpur, here are our top 5 things to do in Kuala Lumpur

• Visit the Petronas Towers
• Marvel at the beauty of Batu Caves
• Explore Chinatown and Petaling Street
• Indulge in food at Jalon Alor
• Get your culture fix at Thean Hou Temple

More than 5 days in Kuala Lumpur

• KL Butterfly Park
• Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan (The Federal Territory Mosque)
• National Museum of Malaysia
• Ilham Gallery
• Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
• Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
• Jamek Mosque

Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

• Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
• Melaka: This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its
• Cameron Highlands: This beautiful hill station in Pahang, Malaysia is known for its tea plantations, strawberry farms, and beautiful scenery
• Legoland Malaysia: An ideal destination if you are traveling to Malaysia with kids
• Genting Highlands: A hilltop resort featuring an indoor theme park shopping complex, restaurants, and more
• Colmar Tropicale: A charming town inspired by Colmar, France

Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before your trip as things tend to change from time to time.

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