It would seem that in a city of a million people it is not so easy to see all its sights. However, in the capital of Malaysia, most of the interesting places are concentrated not only within the city, but also in the very center. In addition, many of them can even be reached on foot, and the famous Batu Caves, located outside the city limits, can be reached by a convenient metropolitan metro. Tourists who were lucky enough to get acquainted with the most interesting city of Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur – were certainly able to appreciate all its advantages. It simultaneously combines the advanced achievements of civilization, and carries some unique aura preserved from ancient times. Here you can meet skyscraper high-rise buildings, visit amazing places and even relax in the shade of landscaped green park areas. Certainly, The main attention of many guests of the metropolis is riveted to the central Independence Square, but in other areas of the city there are many things that are worth seeing. Let's talk about the most interesting sights of Kuala Lumpur.

Masjid Jame Mosque

We propose to start our walk with an acquaintance with the most ancient mosque, which was built in 1909 according to the idea of a brilliant native of Great Britain A. Hubback. It is located in a symbolic place where the rivers Klang and Gombak merge together. The place was not chosen by chance, because according to historical information, it was here that the first settlement existed, which was destined to soon become the capital of the state.

For those who understand the directions of architecture, it will be obvious that the building is made in the Moorish style, its colors are dominated by red and white tones. The complex includes several towers, minarets and three domes. And the role of the background is played by perennial plantations of coconut palms. It is not surprising that the remains of the most prominent figures of the city and the country are stored here, under the tombs of which a considerable area is allotted. For a long time, this particular mosque was the main one throughout the country, until in 1965 the more modern Negara was awarded this honor.

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St. Mary's Anglican Cathedral

The second striking reminder of the long presence in Malaysia of colonial Britain is the Cathedral of St. Mary. Built in 1898, this grandiose cathedral is a true example of the Gothic architecture of an early European island state. In his features, everything is concise and there is not a single superfluous detail. This is how, according to the architects, a holy place for communion with God should look like. But the most interesting tourists are waiting inside. In the center of the hall is the main pride of the cathedral – the old organ, which was created by the recognized genius of his time, Henry Willis, whose inventions adorn the best cathedrals in London.

The interior of the premises is designed in the usual style: the walls are lined with white stone, and the figured windows are decorated with multi-colored stained-glass windows. The rays of the sun passing through them create a unique play of colors and a unique color illusion. It is worth agreeing that the creators managed to achieve the main goal – to create an atmosphere of solemnity and peace. By the way, not so long ago, only the British were allowed into these halls, who were the main participants in the ceremonies of worship. Today, in the cathedral you can meet parishioners from various ethnic classes.

Royal Selangor Golf Club

Not far from the cathedral is the Royal Selangor Golf Club, where the British are used to spending their free time after morning worship. It is not difficult to guess who came up with the idea to create the first golf club in Malaysia. After all, the British have long been famous for their addiction to this measured sporting event. In 1893, an advertisement appeared in the newspaper, according to which everyone could take part in the first golf tournament, which was to be held on the local hill of Petaling.

As soon as the local rich of English origin hit the ball, it was decided to create the first golf course on this hill. The players liked the mixed terrain and natural water obstacles. Despite the fact that the Royal Selangor club in its early years had only a few members and only one small field, a century later it has become one of the most prestigious clubs of our time.

Nowadays, on its territory there are already several golf courses of different sizes, tennis courts, swimming pools and gyms, and even a real school for studying martial arts! Accordingly, in order to feed club members and visitors, we had to think over a network of eating establishments. Today, guests and members of the club are served by several restaurants and cafes, where you can taste not only local dishes, but also appreciate recognizable recipes of European and Asian cuisine.

Although the club is designed for professional players, for whom large-scale competitions are held, beginners will be able to learn the skill of stick handling and hitting technique from experienced masters and instructors.

Independence Square

Independence Square was once a common cricket ground for the British. Perhaps that is why she received such a name, which seems to “scream” about the cherished freedom that Malaysia received after the departure of the British colonialists. In 1957, the flag of an independent state was raised here for the first time. The Malaysians were so eager to gain freedom that to raise the banner they decided to create a huge flagpole, which reaches a height of 95 meters and is still a real record holder.

By the way, the most interesting sights of the city are located on the territory of the square, the main of which is the palace of Sultan Abdul-Samad. It was erected back in 1897 by another British representative, Arthur Norman. According to sources, the author drew his inspiration from the state of the Great Moghuls, who treated their rulers with special trepidation and in every possible way wanted to emphasize their high status by building marvelous palaces for them.

The main decoration of the building is a high chapel, the top of which is decorated with an exquisite dome covered with gilding. The chapel, however, like the cathedral itself, combines two directions in architecture at once – Moorish and Victorian. The author managed to perfectly combine the different notes of these trends, and the result exceeded even the wildest expectations. Tourists can spend hours enjoying marvelous arches, minarets and domes, which are very similar in shape to bulbs.

Not surprisingly, Malaysians compare the chapel to the English “Big Ben”. Well, if you get into the vicinity of the castle in the evening, you get the impression that you are in a real oriental fairy tale – hundreds of multi-colored lanterns generously pour rays on the walls of the castle and its towers.

Textile Museum

If you love history, be sure to check out the National Textile Museum, in the halls of which you can trace the entire history of Malaysia. It houses a large collection of samples of fabrics, national clothes, festive and everyday clothes and colorful patterns. It was from these drawings that it was possible to distinguish people who belonged to different class groups.

Gallery visitors will learn about the technique of fabric production, how and with what techniques patterns were applied to clothes. To make it easier for guests to navigate, the galleries are divided into four main expositions, each of which contains enough information and samples of fabrics, mechanisms that were used in different historical eras. One of the galleries contains thousands of unique jewelry, hairpins and brooches that were typical for different regions of Malaysia.

In fairness, it is worth noting the building of the history repository itself, which also represents a vivid example of neo-Moorish architecture. The facade is generously decorated with towers, carved arches and tall spiers.

Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are famous for their ancient age of about 400 million years. These natural formations were discovered 200 years ago, and soon one of the Indian merchants began to build a temple to the god Muruga near the entrance to the cave. Later, the tallest statue, reaching 43 meters, was erected here, on which about 300 liters of gold paint were spent. In 1920, a staircase of 272 steps was built, leading from a huge statue to the entrance to the main cave.

In addition to the many steps, the staircase is distinguished by a large number of various religious figures and statues, which form a kind of sculptural composition. The walls of the caves are also decorated with sculptural deities, and the light penetrating through the natural fault makes it possible to view the cave from the inside. In the far cave at the altar, Hindus often pray, who revere these places and strive to conduct their rituals here. Bats live in one of the caves of Batu. Therefore, not everyone is allowed here, so as not to disturb the bats.

Sri Mahamariamman Temple

There are many different religious buildings in Kuala Lumpur. Despite the predominance of Islam, representatives of different religious denominations also feel great here. In particular, the oldest Hindu temple, Sri Mahamariamman, is the main shrine for Hindus not only in the capital, but throughout Malaysia. The temple was built in the 19th century, when guest workers from South India began to arrive on the rubber plantations of Malaysia. According to Hindu beliefs, the goddess Mahamariamman protects from diseases and provides food.

Therefore, in a foreign land, it became necessary to build a temple where one could ask his deity for protection and salvation. In 1885, the building was moved to the outskirts of Chinatown and a five-tiered gopuram tower, decorated with colorful sculptures of Hindu deities, was erected over the entrance to the temple. This Hindu temple houses a silver chariot with many bells. Every year, on the Thaipusam holiday, which falls in January-February, a statue of the god Murugan is placed on a chariot and transported through the streets of the capital, accompanied by an elegant crowd, heading to the Batu caves.

petronas towers

These are the tallest twin towers in the world today. The bases form an eight-pointed star, which symbolizes harmony and unity among Muslims. Such architectural symbolism is characteristic of the Islamic state.

The skyscrapers are connected by the “Sky Bridge” at the 41st floor level. There is also a magnificent observation deck, from where an excellent panorama of the city opens. In addition to office space, the towers house exhibition spaces, a theatre, art galleries, restaurants and cafes. About 300 people visit the attraction every day, although there are a lot of people who want to see the city from a bird's eye view, so tickets must be purchased in advance.

Kuala Lumpur Menara TV Tower

Among the high-rise buildings, it is worth noting the Menara Kuala Lumpur TV tower, which has the glory of being the tallest man-made structure in all of Malaysia. The TV tower quickly gained popularity among newlyweds. Here, special show programs, photo shoots, and banquet services are arranged for young people getting married. The tower is quite legally used by base jumpers for mind-blowing parachute jumps.

Even at night, the tower is clearly visible from any part of the city due to the amazingly skillful illumination, nicknamed by the locals as the “Garden of Light”. Construction of this scale is also an example of respect for the environment. A century-old tree growing near the TV tower was tried to be preserved during construction work, although it was not cheap.

bird park

The bird park is one of the most visited by tourists and locals. For more than 3 thousand birds, collected from all over the world, the most comfortable living conditions have been created here. Most of the birds flutter freely among the trees, over which the net is stretched only so that the feathered inhabitants do not fly away from the park. Keeping birds in conditions close to natural makes them feel so great that almost all of them regularly give birth.

Visitors to the Bird Park can witness fascinating performances every day with birds singing, dancing, performing acrobatic stunts and solving mathematical problems. Parrots and toucans, ostriches and flamingos, storks and peacocks and many other equally gifted inhabitants of this unique bird kingdom act as talented “artists”. Interestingly, visitors to this abode of birds are not required to adhere to strict rules, but you should not scare the birds and try to feed them yourself.

Royal Palace of Istana Negara

The main building of the Malaysian capital is the official residence of the king. The Istana Negara Palace was built in 1928, after which it was rebuilt and expanded many times. The last restoration was completed in 2011, and now the royal chambers are considered a modern example of functionality and luxury. On the territory of 28 acres there is a swimming pool, a golf course, a park, a lake, a tennis court, picturesque flower beds and a wonderful garden.

The attraction is closed to tourists, but outside the gate you can see the ceremony of changing the guard of honor, which gathers many spectators. The event is rehearsed to the smallest detail, the movements of the participants are verified, and the colorful form of the times of British colonization makes it very beautiful.

Central Park

In the middle of glass skyscrapers, there is a green oasis for relaxation. Its territory is 20 hectares. The park appeared in 1980, and the key task of its organizers was to draw attention to the value of tropical forests. Through the work of landscape designers, exotic palm plantations, artificial lakes with luxurious fountains, spectacular sculptures, pretty bridges and many paths have appeared here and very harmoniously coexist.

Central Park has a pool where young visitors can splash around and a playground. The park offers a gorgeous view of the majestic Petronas Towers, which are located very close. It is from this point of the city that one can appreciate their scale and undeniable splendor.

Lake Gardens Park

Lake Gardens creates the impression of seclusion and autonomy from civilization. This is the oldest botanical garden in the capital of Malaysia with an area of 90 hectares, its territory is made up of various gardens. Floral compositions are thought out to the smallest detail and look very impressive. Go to the promenade along the picturesque alleys, and you will forget that you are in a modern metropolis, here you create a feeling of complete unity with nature.

The hibiscus garden is a visiting card of Lake Gardens and an incredibly beautiful place. Various types of elegant flowers grow on the terraces, which are the symbol of Malaysia. In the Orchid Garden, visitors will see more than a thousand species of this luxurious plant. Part of the Botanical Garden is the famous Butterfly Park, which has all the conditions for the habitat and reproduction of spectacular winged beauties. Here is also the Bird Park, numbering 3,000 inhabitants, this is the largest bird nursery in Southeast Asia. The park is also home to the largest National Planetarium in the country.

Negara Zoo

Negara has been open to visitors since 1963, covers 110 acres and annually welcomes up to a million visitors from all over the world. A distinctive feature of the national zoo in Malaysia is that the conditions in which the animals live are as close as possible to their natural habitat. The zoo is divided into thematic zones: in the largest – “Savannah” – there are many heroes of the cartoon “The Lion King”: antelopes, giraffes, zebras, rhinos and other animals.

Expositions with telling names also attract a lot of spectators: Monkey, Reptile and Bear Parks, Bird Lake (for waterfowl) and Bird Aviary, Panda Center, Insect Exhibition and Aquarium with amazing marine life. A free bus runs around the territory, by which you can get to the exposition of interest.

Negar Mosque

The picturesque complex is considered a symbol of Islam and the spiritual center of the city. The picturesque shrine is open to non-Muslim tourists, but at certain times and subject to the dress code. The main hall of the mosque can accommodate 8,000 people at the same time. A ribbed star-shaped dome spread over the building. It has 18 corners, which is an example of architectural symbolism: the 5 founding pillars of Islam and the 13 states of Malaysia that the religion covers.

The dome is painted blue and green and looks very colorful. The interior of the temple deserves special attention. The monumental building with colored glass through which the sun's rays penetrate is a memorable sight. Nearby is a snow-white minaret (prayer tower), whose height is 73 meters.

Sultan Abdul-Samad building

The business card is a palace built at the end of the 19th century. Its appearance harmoniously combines Victorian and Moorish architectural styles. English restraint is complemented by oriental splendor, which emphasizes the originality and originality of the appearance of the palace, which is why the building is popular among travelers.

The building is also called Kuala Lumpur's Big Ben, because a forty-meter clock tower rises in the center of the building. In the evening, the palace is illuminated and becomes like a fairytale castle, so when planning a sunset promenade, plan your route past. On New Year's Day or Malaysian Independence Day (August 31), a magnificent parade takes place here on a wide scale.

Oceanarium Aquaria KLSS

You can watch the life of marine life, of which there are at least 20 thousand, in the aquarium with an area of 5.6 square meters. Having received a booklet at the checkout, which indicates the feeding schedule, visitors can see how predatory sharks and piranhas, mysterious stingrays and octopuses feed. Here you can touch some of the inhabitants of the underwater depths, ride in the only ninety-meter underwater tunnel in the world, make a portrait of a charming turtle, look at the development of a shark embryo, admire colorful and impressive-sized fish, have time to capture nimble shrimps and much more.

Every year, part of the aquarium's expositions changes, so that it would be interesting to come here again and again. This popular family holiday destination is visited by thousands of tourists and locals every day, so tickets must be purchased in advance.

Central market

To fully experience the fullness of the Malaysian flavor, go to the Central Market. The history of the attraction goes back to the distant 1888, when there was an active trade in seafood, fruits and vegetables. Today, the malls are filled with souvenirs, clothing and all kinds of hand-made accessories.

Fabrics, jewellery, handmade bags, belts, figurines, tableware, sumptuous Indian saris, works of art created by local artisans right in front of you and much more can be purchased by visiting the Central Market. Even if you do not plan to buy anything, do not pass by a place that fascinates with its originality and ease.

Chinatown

The bustling Chinatown is nestled in the center of the city. A place popular with travelers, because here, among thousands of red Chinese lanterns overhead, the aromas of Asian cuisine and lively sellers, you can feel the atmosphere of a crowded China. The busiest Chinatown becomes in the afternoon: in the middle of the street “grows” another shopping arcade. Chinatown sells everything from children‘s clothing to household appliances.

Many restaurants and cafes offer exotic dishes. The quarter, deserted by midnight, becomes no less interesting: just the right time to take colorful photos against the backdrop of the scenery of the Celestial Empire. The location near the main attractions makes Chinatown popular with tourists: budget hostels and inexpensive hotels for those who want to save a lot.

National Museum

The cultural and historical heritage of the Malays from ancient times to the present day is in the National Museum. The three-story building of the museum is decorated with Italian mosaics and is located on top of a hill. Four halls contain expositions that tell about different periods of history: the prehistoric era, the Malay kingdom, the colonial period and the present day. The first hall displays ancient Malaysian finds and wax figures of primitive people, which makes the exhibition more realistic.

Scenes from the life and life of the Malays before the ships of the Europeans sailed here are reproduced in the hall. Pay attention to the luxurious royal bed, made by the best craftsmen of the country. In the hall of the colonial era, there are many mannequins in national clothes, scenes from the life of local residents and retro vehicles (including the first bicycle, carts, cars of the last century and the first steam locomotives).

Perdana Botanical Garden

Why not be in the jungle without leaving the metropolis? This is exactly the feeling you get when you walk through the garden of Perdana. Thousands of exotic plants are collected in one place, many samples have information plates. An amazing African “sausage” – a tree whose fruits are poisonous in its raw form, neatly trimmed trees, squirrels scurrying here and there, baobab, flower beds with all kinds of flowers. Even in bad weather, Perdan's garden is beautiful.

There are sections of the park with a glass roof, you can hide from the rain in a tree house in the middle of bamboo thickets or have a picnic there, hiding from the heat. Tropical plantings of African and South American plants are a great place for juicy photos against the backdrop of real floral scenery.

Tian Hou Temple

The most picturesque Buddhist temple in Malaysia rises on a hill near Little India. It is dedicated to the goddess Tian Hou, the patroness of seafarers. The multi-storey shrine is built in the Chinese style, and each of its details is magnificent in its own way. It will take a long time to see figurines, sculptures, wall paintings and hidden courtyards.

There is even a lake with turtles and a garden of medicinal plants. Climbing up to the highest terrace, visitors to the shrine can appreciate the fantastic panorama of the city that opens from here. Taking off your shoes, you can enter the temple and appreciate its rich interior decoration. At the altar of the goddess, you can tell fortunes, and when passing by the well of desires, do not hesitate to guess the fulfillment of your most secret dream.

Wilayat Persecutuan Mosque

Vilayat Persekutuan is not only a prayer house for Muslims, but also the architectural pride of Kuala Lumpur. The construction of the mosque was completed in 2000. Architects inspired by the religious buildings of the Ottoman and Persian civilizations have recreated an architectural masterpiece. The majestic building, finished with gray marble, looks impressive. On the sides are pointed minarets, from where the call to prayer is heard.

Fountains and palm trees around give the complex a certain charm, and sky-blue gambiz domes seem to connect the earthly and heavenly beginnings. The graceful architectural ensemble reveals the multifaceted Muslim culture. The mosque is allowed to visit non-believers, but subject to the dress code. From the balcony you can watch how the prayer is performed and preparations for it in the prayer hall.

Museum of Islamic Art

Art filled with Muslim motifs is a fascinating page in the culture of Malaysia. It is not necessary to profess this religion in order to appreciate how interesting and beautiful the museum is. The four-story building houses relics related to Islam. Ancient manuscripts in Arabic, old manuscripts, a collection of ceramics and Korans, jewelry, legends and even illustrations for them.

Beautiful and intimidating weapons are presented in a separate room. There are many elegant daggers, bayonets, pistols and pistols of the 19th century, helmets and other attributes of jihad. There is an exposition, which presents models of the most famous mosques in the world. You can look at the tiny elements of miniature temples for a long time. In the shop you can buy a souvenir to remember the excursion, household items or religious literature.

KidZania Children‘s Center

If you are traveling with children, do not miss the opportunity to visit the KidZania children's leisure center. Here, young visitors will learn in a playful way. The KidZania program is aimed at instilling in children the skills of independence, responsibility and the ability to make decisions. There are a huge number of playgrounds on the territory of the center, where children master various professions, learn to make independent decisions.

More than 70 scenarios have been prepared for visitors: put out a fire, become a chef or confectioner by preparing an edible dish, a pilot, write an article for a newspaper or broadcast news, be a doctor, artist, supermarket cashier, conduct experiments in the laboratory and many other exciting activities. The work of the guys is paid with the currency of Kindzania, and this is another useful lesson in financial literacy.