The Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque overlooks Merdeka Square. — Photos: Filepic
Kuala Lumpur is a city bursting with vibrant cultures and amazing food at every corner, and has a rich history to boot.
Although some would disagree, it is actually possible to experience what this bustling metropolis has to offer in just one day – and on foot!
Whether you’re on a day-long stopover or on a mission to rediscover the city again, this guide provides a convenient route covering a few must-visit places and food spots, perfect for those with just 24 hours to spare.
So, lace up your shoes, grab your essentials, and get ready for an unforgettable day in KL.
You may want to start your journey with a hearty breakfast at any of the kopitiams or “mamak” restaurants around the Masjid Jamek LRT Station, such as Santa Chapati House or Lekiu Cafe for a true local breakfast experience.
1. Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque
A short stroll from the Masjid Jamek LRT Station will take you to one of the most iconic landmarks in KL: the Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque.
Built in 1909, it is the oldest standing mosque in the city. With an Indo-Saracenic architectural style, the mosque is a sight to behold. Spend some time exploring the serene courtyards and admire the intricate design of the mosque.
Visitors are welcome to enter (best not to visit during prayer times), but do remember to dress modestly and adhere to the guidelines. The mosque also overlooks the confluence of the Gombak and Klang rivers, adding to the calming environment along the riverside.
The Merdeka Square is the heart of Malaysia’s independence history.
2. Merdeka Square
A short distance from the mosque is the Merdeka Square or Dataran Merdeka, known as the heart of Malaysia’s independence history.
Admire the colonial architecture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, including the iconic clock tower. The surrounding area also includes the expansive Merdeka field, a spot that tells the story of Malaysia’s journey to independence.
The Royal Selangor Club and other colonial-era landmarks are located nearby. This area perfectly captures the transformation of the city over the decades, making it a must-visit place.
The National Textiles Museum provides a glimpse into the country’s textiles and craftsmanship.
3. National Textiles Museum
Located just across the street from the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, the National Textiles Museum offers an enriching look into Malaysian heritage textiles, such as the batik and songket.
The museum is nestled in a heritage building, making it both a cultural and architectural delight. Spending time in the museum will leave you with a newfound understanding of and appreciation for Malaysia’s craftsmanship and creativity.
Different galleries worth exploring span the entire museum, ranging from a showcase of the origins and developments of textiles from the early periods to clothes and jewellery worn throughout the decades.
Right next to Central Market is the Kasturi Walk where more local goods and delicacies can be found.
4. Central Market
A 10-minute walk from the museum will take you to Central Market, known for being a hub of Malaysian arts, handicrafts and souvenirs.
If you are looking for local-made items to either bring home or gift your friends and family, this is the best place to go. You can find batik prints, traditional costumes and even the wau bulan (a uniquely-designed Malaysian kite).
Right outside of the market is an alley known as the Kasturi Walk. Here, you can find more stalls selling local snacks such as pisang goreng and ais kacang.
A rich cultural history, delicious food and a lively ambiance awaits at ‘Chinatown’.
5. Chinatown, Petaling Street
From Central Market, Petaling Street is just several blocks away. The street is known as the “Chinatown” of KL with its bustling environment of hawker stalls and boisterous crowd.
This is the perfect spot to find mouth-watering Chinese-Malaysian dishes, including Hokkien noodles, beef noodles, chicken rice and asam laksa.
Some spots worth trying out are Kim Lian Kee Restaurant, Han Kee Restaurant and Nam Heong Restaurant. There are also halal options such as the Zhang Lala Mee Tarik Restaurant and Ma La Tang Spicy Hotpot Restaurant – though these are Chinese-Muslim cuisines from China – within the vicinity.
Several cosy cafes also line the street, perfect for grabbing a quick coffee or dessert, before you continue on the next part of the journey.
6. Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Ancestral Hall
A short five-minute walk from Petaling Street will lead you to the Chan She Shu Yuen Ancestral Hall, one of the oldest well-preserved clan houses and places of worship in Malaysia.
The temple, constructed in 1906, offers a view into the cultural heritage of the Chinese community in KL with its impressive structure, beautiful carvings, colourful murals and a peaceful courtyard.
Catch a glimpse of the stunning Merdeka 118 Tower standing right behind the temple. Far from being imposing, it showcases instead the blend of present-day modernity with the traditional foundations on which the city is built upon.
The KLCC Park offers a nice respite from the sun and a great view of the towers.
7. PETRONAS Twin Towers
After exploring the cultural treasures offered by the city, it is now time to hop onto the “other side” of KL. Walk over to the Pasar Seni LRT, which is about a 10-minute walk from the ancestral hall.
Take a short ride from Pasar Seni to the KLCC Station for the next leg of your adventure through the city.
Arriving at KLCC, you will find yourself in the heart of KL’s skyline. Take a stroll through the KLCC Park for the best view of the PETRONAS Twin Towers, or go up to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the city.
Do keep in mind that the observation deck is closed on Mondays and you would need tickets to go up. Check out the official website (petronastwintowers.com.my/) for more information.
The city's most prominent shopping mall, Pavilion KL architecture and retail diversity is impressive. — Tourism Malaysia website
8. Bukit Bintang
From KLCC, embark on a leisurely 15-minute walk to Bukit Bintang, part of the city’s “Golden Triangle” area. You can do this by using the covered walkway which can be accessed at the entrance of the KL Convention Centre.
At the end of your walk, you will find yourself at Pavilion KL.Make your way out of the mall and onto the Bintang Walk area, where you will be surrounded by numerous malls, including Pavilion KL, Lot 10, Starhill, Sungei Wang and Fahrenheit 88.
Look for the famous Bukit Bintang Crossing; at night there will be buskers and street performers putting on a show nearby.
For a quick treat before dinner, check out spots like Kunafa Crisp for its delicious Middle Eastern dessert, or 32Parfait for their 32cm-tall ice cream.
Jalan Alor is a regular street that transforms into a food haven come nightfall.
9. Jalan Alor Food Street
Wrap up your day (and journey) with a culinary feast at Jalan Alor, the city’s most famous food street located only five minutes away from Bintang Walk.
As night falls, the regular street comes alive with food stalls offering a variety of mostly South-East Asian cuisines lining the full length of the street. Some shops do sell local food too, so be sure to check out dishes like char kway teow and satay.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with drinks like fresh coconut or sugarcane juice for the ultimate street food experience.
