Often simply referred to as KL, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital city. The name means muddy estuary in the Malay language and it should be clear to visitors that the city has come a long way since it was first named.

Often simply referred to as KL, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital city. The name means muddy estuary in the Malay language and it should be clear to visitors that the city has come a long way since it was first named.

Kuala Lumpur started life as a tin mining village, which boomed into the vibrant capital city that it remains today. In fact, Kuala Lumpur is home to in excess of six million people these days and boasts some of the finest restaurants, hotels and most impressive attractions in the whole of Malaysia.

Visitors will have no trouble getting around Malaysia, as most parts of the city can be explored on foot easily enough. The city is also blessed with an elevated railway line as well as a regular railway system and a whole network of buses.

No trip to Kuala Lumpur would be complete without checking out the world famous Petronas Towers, which measure a mighty 436 metres. Visitors are only permitted to climb part way up the Petronas Towers, and the most striking views of the city are offered from the top of the KL Tower, which also provides visitors with a video guided tour as they wander around the tower taking in the stunning view.

The National Museum is a good place to get an idea of Malaysia’s diverse history, while the Police Museum and Islamic Arts Museum offer special perspectives of life in Kuala Lumpur. The large and lovely Lake Gardens are also just waiting to be explored and are home to attractions such as the Orchid Gardens, National Planetarium and Bird Garden.

Those who want to indulge in a spot of shopping should head on over to Petaling Street, where just about anything and everything is available for a price. The street stalls here specialise in copies of goods such as bags, belts, watches and wallets from leading designers.

Shopping is a popular pastime in Kuala Lumpur and there are plenty of large western-style shopping malls where visitors can pick up a bargain or two. These shopping malls are also good places to find a descent meal, while the city’s night market often cheap and tasty traditional dishes.