How to Spend 24 Hours in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Where I Stayed: Else Retreats
I was lucky enough to stay at Else Retreats, located in the heart of Chinatown.
This hotel is a hidden gem that perfectly blends modern comfort with traditional charm. The chic design and cozy atmosphere made it a perfect home base for my adventures. Plus, being so close to all the sights meant I could easily explore the area on foot.
Morning: Coffee and Egg Tarts
After battling some jet lag, I was ready to hit the ground running.
Instead of the hotel breakfast, I decided to grab a quick snack and a coffee because I'm not usually a big breakfast person first thing in the morning. But what I did grab was an egg tart from a nearby bakery!
The hotel’s location was incredible - literally walking distance to all the sights I wanted to see, from temples to bustling streets adorned with vibrant street art.
Mid-Morning Stroll: Temples & Street Art
Just steps away from the hotel, I found Guan Di Temple, a beautiful Chinese temple, and the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, a stunning Hindu temple.
It's no visit to Malaysia if you don't do a little culture exploration, right?!
I just love that Malaysia as a country is this huge melting pot of cultures and for someone that resides in London were everyone comes from everywhere, I love this kind of vibe.
After exploring the temples, I made my way to Jalan Petaling to check out the street art.
The vibrant murals made for some great photo opportunities, though it was quite crowded with tourists. I likely would have enjoyed it more if I had visited earlier in the day when it was less busy.
Brunch: Nasi Lemak and Curry Chee Cheong Fun
After some exploring, I met up with a friend for brunch at this cozy spot.
We indulged in nasi lemak, Malaysia’s iconic breakfast dish, and a beautiful plate of curry chee cheong fun. Both dishes were not only visually stunning but also packed with flavour - definitely a highlight of my trip.
The restaurant was also quite busy and there was a queue forming outside shortly after I had gotten there, so beware!
Afternoon: Batu Caves
Next up was a visit to the Batu Caves, which I reached by taxi. Although it's a bit outside the city centre (about 11 kilometres/7 miles from Kuala Lumpur) the stunning limestone caves and vibrant Hindu shrines make it well worth the trip. Just be prepared for the humidity inside!
The Batu Caves are a must-visit attraction and is an iconic limestone hill features a series of caves and temples significant to the Hindu community.
Things to note when you visit
- The site is dominated by a massive 42.7-meter-tall statue of Lord Murugan, one of the tallest in the world.
- Visitors must climb 272 colourful steps to reach the Temple Cave, where several Hindu shrines are located. The climb offers a rewarding view but can be quite tiring especially in the heat.
- This cave offers guided tours highlighting unique limestone formations and ecosystems but it's not mandatory that you do this.
- The Batu Caves are a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, especially during the Thaipusam festival, which attracts thousands of devotees with colourful processions and rituals. Beware of what time of year you visit so you can try to aoid busy crowds.
Practical information
- Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 9 PM.
- Access: Reachable by taxi, Grab, or KTM Komuter train.
- Visitor Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, dress modestly, and be cautious of the playful monkeys in the area.
Shopping: Central Market & A Snack
After all that exploring, I needed a little snack, so I treated myself to some roti and a refreshing iced Milo.
Indian cuisine and influence can easily be found in Kuala Lumpur and across Malaysia and one of my favourite snacks to have here is a roti canai. If you've never tried this, I'd highly recommend!
Right outside my hotel was also the Central Market, a great spot for shopping.
From local crafts to souvenirs, it’s a vibrant place that captures the essence of Malaysian culture. I spent a little time browsing the stalls, picking up some items to gift to friends and family at home.
Evening: Dinner and Drinks
Before I knew it, it was dinner time at Bijan Bar and Restaurant, a fantastic spot in Bukit Bintang picked by a local friend.
The place was packed with locals, and I knew immediately this was going to be a great meal when I first stepped in. I enjoyed a delicious meal that perfectly capped off my day, with flavours that showcased the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia.
After dinner, I headed to the Wet Deck, where I sipped a drink while soaking in the breathtaking views of the city skyline.
It wasn't too busy when I got there and the atmosphere was just right for reflecting on a day filled with activities and delicious food.
Bukit Bintang is teeming with a variety of restaurants and bars, each offering unique dining experiences and vibrant nightlife. I definitely wish I had more time to explore all the hidden gems in the area!
More to Explore in KL
If you have a bit more time, there are plenty of other activities to consider. You might want to visit the Petronas Twin Towers for a stunning view of the city from the sky bridge.
For a taste of local culture, check out Jalan Alor, a food street famous for its night market vibes and mouthwatering street food.
Another popular spot is KL Bird Park, home to hundreds of bird species in a beautifully landscaped environment. And if you're interested in history, the Islamic Arts Museum is a must-visit, showcasing intricate designs and artefacts.
Wrap Up
And that wraps up my 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur! From delicious food to cultural experiences, this city has so much to offer. Whether you’re a foodie or an adventurer, Kuala Lumpur is sure to leave you wanting more.
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