City
Information: Kuala Lumpur is truly
a ‘Garden City of Lights' that bustles
with energy. It is a mix of both the ultra modern
of the future and the rustic charm of the past.
And as capital city spanning almost 243.6 sq
km, KL - as it is fondly known- is the nerve
centre of the country with almost 2 million
KLites calling it home. This modern metropolis
offers an endless shopping paradise, glorious
array of food and happening nightlife set to
enthral even the most seasoned travellers. One
thing is assured - there is never a boring moment
in KL. Getting around is a breeze since KL has
a well-connected transportation network. There
is a choice of PUTRA/STAR train systems, monorail,
taxis and buses. Alternatively, you take a pre-arranged
tour to view the major landmarks that make KL.
The more adventurous can also explore this exciting
city on foot. If you fancy all things traditional,
then Karyaneka Handicraft Centre is a great
place to visit. It is a treasure trove of exquisite
Malaysian souvenirs and unique handicrafts,
which can be purchased at affordable prices.
Places
of Attraction
KL
Railway Station was built in 1910 and
extensively renovated in 1986. This former station
features turrets, arches, minarets and domes
reflecting influences of Arabian and Moorish
architecture. It was once the central hub of
Malaysian railways until its relocation to KL
Sentral a few years ago.
National
Museum features a classical Malay architecture
and houses many artefacts and items from Malaysia's
past with a detailed account of the culture
and history of its people.
As Islam is
the official religion of Malaysia, the beguiling
National Mosque is the pride
of the nation. The mosque occupies a beautiful
five-hectare garden in Jalan Hishamuddin. It
features a 74m high minaret and its main dome
is designed in the shape of an 18-point star
to represent the 13 states of the country and
their unification by the Five Pillars of Islam.
Islamic
Arts Museum
Created to foster better understanding of Islam
through the arts, the Islamic Arts Museum displays
a fine collection of Islamic texts, manuscripts,
porcelain, weapons, art, textiles, Muslim calligraphy
and replicas of famous mosques of the world.
Its four-storey building with an impressive
array of tile-work is a beauty to behold.
Lake
Gardens
A short walk from the National Mosque is KL's
premier garden - The Lake Gardens. This 92-hectare
rolling garden is one of the major green lungs
of KL city. It is a favourite among city folks
and visitors to escape from the hectic pace
of city life. The park offers various recreational
activities and attractions like the world's
largest covered bird park, butterfly and deer
parks, orchid garden, planetarium, insect museum,
hibiscus garden and more.
KL
Tower
At 421 meters, the KL Tower is the fourth tallest
telecommunications tower in the world and the
tallest in South East Asia. The tower houses
a revolving restaurant and an observation platform
that offers a bird's-eye view of Kuala Lumpur
and its surroundings.
Nightlife being
a vibrant city, KL offers some of the best places
for night entertainment. The best of KL nightlife
is concentrated in three main places - the city
center, the posh district of Bangar and the
upcoming chic district of Seri Hartamas and
Mont' Kiara. Changkat Bukit Bintang is another
place worth checking out, although it's rather
subdued from the others.