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Mansion groen

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The Peranakans, also known as the Babas and Nyonyas, was a prominent community of acculturated Chinese unique to this part of the world, especially in the Straits Settlements (Penang, Malacca and Singapore) hence its other name, the Straits Chinese. Adopting selected ways of the local Malays and later, the colonial British, the Peranakans had created a unique lifestyle and customs which had not only left behind a rich legacy of antiques but its cultural influences like cuisine and language are still evident in Penang today.

At the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, the typical home of a rich Baba of a century ago is recreated to offer a glimpse of their opulent lifestyle and of their many customs and traditions. With over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectibles of the era on display, this Baba-Nyonya museum is also housed in one of Penangï¿½s heritage mansion of eclectic design and architecture. Built at the end of the 19th century by one of local historyï¿½s famous personalities, the ï¿½Hai Kee Chanï¿½ or Sea Remembrance Store had once served as the residence and office of Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee. Though not a Baba himself, his Chinese courtyard house was much like a typical large Baba home of eclectic style, incorporating Chinese carved-wood panels and English floor tiles and Scottish ironworks. Having survived the many decades of neglect and decay, the mansion has now been restored to its former glory of a stately home.

Monday to Sunday including Public Holidays from 9:30 am to 5 pm

(Kindly make prior arrangements for conducted tours and the viewing of the mansion)

Adults : RM25.00

Children (6-12 yrs) : RM 12.00

Junior Children (below 6) : Free

Complimentary tours are available.

Security cameras are placed all over the mansion. Please refrain from touching any display items. Food and drinks are strictly prohibited in the mansion.

Videography and Photograpy

Videography and photography are not allowed within the mansion. Any use of photographs or video clips for commercial purposes without the express written consent from the Management is strictly prohibited.

The Mansion and its grounds are available for private gatherings and events. Contact us for further information and attractive rates.

For enquires and reservations, kindly contact us at

Address: 29, Church Street, 10200 Penang, Malaysia.

Telephone: 604-2642929,
Fax: 604-2641929
E-Mail: rmhbaba@gmail.com

Managed by Pinang Peranakan Mansion Sdn. Bhd.

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Exploring the Malaysian Island Langkawi by Scooter, Langkawi, Malaysia (B)

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Malaysia exists out of multiple islands, from which Langkawi is located at the West side of the country. Comparing to Penang, Langkawi is less touristic and is still very pure. That's also the reason why Langkawi is perfect to explore by scooter. We stayed a few days at Langkawi during our round trip through Malaysia. In this article I provide an island guide.

There are many ways to get to Langkawi. Most travellers will travel to Langkawi by boat; from the island Penang or from the mainland of Malaysia. I travelled from Penang to Langkawi by the high-speed ferry, which takes you to the island in approximately three hours. Although this is quite efficient, the ferry ride wasn't very comfortable. This means that the seats were small and there wasn't much legroom; I was happy when the three hours were over.. Furthermore, if you can get sea sick fast, this might not be the best idea for you as the water can be quite wild sometimes.

An alternative way to get to Langkawi, is by plane. Langkawi has its own airport from where you can take several domestic flights. You can travel from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi by plane, for example. The domestic flights are very cheap, which makes it for everyone accessible. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).

How it works: The full article is featured in the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" on Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Download the app to your mobile device to read the article offline and create a self-guided walking tour to visit the sights featured in this article. The app's navigation functions guide you from one sight to the next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Exploring the Malaysian Island Langkawi by Scooter, Langkawi, Malaysia (B)

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Langkawi is less touristic and is still very pure. That's also the reason why Langkawi is perfect to explore by scooter. We stayed a few days at Langkawi during our round trip through Malaysia. In...

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Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

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Saloma Bridge in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (2023) - CK Travels

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This post may contain affiliate links to tours and hotels. These help us earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.
Kuala Lumpur is lit! And none more so than at Saloma Bridge, KL's newest tourist attraction that has become incredibly popular on Instagram and TikTok.

Located close to KLCC, Saloma Bridge is an iconic structure that connects the historic Kampung Baru district with the newer skyscrapers and city scape of 'modern' KL.

Illuminated each night in bright colours (and often themed in special shades to coincide with public holidays or events), Saloma Bridge in KL is a much visit next time you are in Malaysia

Also known as Pintasan Saloma and Kuala Lumpur's most 'dazzling' attraction', here is our guide to visiting Saloma Bridge in Kuala Lumpur:
You might like - Guide to Jalan Alor Night Market in KL >
KL's Saloma Bridge opened in 2020 as a walkway and cycling route, and links the KLCC and Petrona Towers area with the Kampung Baru neighbourhood - it took around two years to complete.

Although initially seen as a useful transport infrastructure project, the Saloma Bridge has become an iconic KL attraction, with hundreds of overseas visitors and locals visiting each night to pose in and around the colourful bridge.

Try this - Kuala Lumpur Night Tours >
Given it easy to take pictures that feature both the bridge and Petronas Towers in one shot, it is a popular selfie spot too.

Saloma Bridge's / Pintasan Saloma's unique and awesome architecture is said to be inspired by the sireh junjung (leaf of a betel nut, which is an important part of Malaysian weddings; the symbolism referring to the joining of old and new KL.

You might like - Guide to Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL's entertainment district and pub street >
Saloma Bridge is around 70 metres long and was designed VERITAS Design Group supposedly costing over 30 million Ringgit Malaysia (over £5 million / $6.5 million) - it was opened on the 5th February 2020 and now has thousands of users every day.

This beautiful Kuala Lumpur bridge is named after Saloma, a Singaporean Malaysian singer and fashion icon who is buried near to the bridge - she died in 1983.

Yes, Saloma Bridge in KL is free admission - as its original function was as a cycling lane and walking path, it is free to use.

Saloma Bridge is normally open to the public from 5am to 1am daily, 7 days a week.

Saloma Bridge is very easy to visit in KL - it is accessible by public transport, by taxi or by walking from Kampung Baru or KLCC / Symphony Lake.

Saloma Bridge by Public Transport

The closest train station to Saloma Bridge is the Kampung Baru LRT / KLJ station, approximately a 2 to 3 minute walk from the bridge. This is a light rapid transit line that also goes through popular stations such as KLCC or KL Sentral.

Saloma Bridge by Taxi / Grab

Another option to visit Saloma Bridge is by taxi - Grab taxis in Malaysia are very cheap and easy to book via the online app.

We took a Grab taxi to Saloma Bridge from the Pavilion shopping centre / Golden Triangle and the journey cost around 20 MYR (around £3.50 / $4.20 USD).

Taxis usually drop you off on the northern side of the brodge, immediately below on a quiet side-street.

Try this - Discover The Best of Kuala Lumpur by Night >

Walking to Saloma Bridge

Try this - Private Tour Kuala Lumpur with Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck & Batu Caves >
Alternatively, it is very easy to walk to the bridge from KLCC / the Petronas Towers or from Kampung Baru - pavement / sidewalk access is good but the roads can be busy.

From the KLCC / Petronas Towers side, walk past the Public Bank building and then turn right towards NZ Curry House; follow the pavement to the large Saloma Bridge sign.

To note if you are approaching Saloma Bridge from Kampung Baru's street food area, you will either need to get a lift / elevator up two storeys or navigate some stairs - the walk from KLCC to the bridge is totally flat and on the same level.

Perhaps KL's most famous bridge, Saloma Bridge is beloved by both locals and tourists alike due to its incredible photo opportunities and brightly coloured backdrop - in fact, even our taxi driver said his daughter loved to go there with her friends to take pictures.

Given its huge array of LEDs and ever changing colours, Saloma Bridge is possibly the most photographed attraction in KL city centre, along with the Petrona Towers. This is also a wonderful place to photograph the two together, and take selfies or family pics.

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Some of the best photo spots at Saloma Bridge include:

The northern viewing platform on Saloma Bridge

If you are visiting Saloma Bridge from KLCC, we'd actually say the viewing platform over the other side of the bridge nearer to Kampung Baru is the best viewing spot, particularly at night.

Here there is enough room to take pictures of large groups, and get both the bridge and Petronas Towers in shot.

You might like - Things to do in Langkawi, Malaysia >
The Saloma Bridge Sign

By the Saloma Bridge entrance closest to KLCC, there is a deck that has a large Saloma Bridge sign as a background and place to pose for pictures. Interpretation panels are also available to read here.

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Inside the Bridge Itself

Although this may not be so good by daytime, Saloma Bridge lights up by night and the interior looks incredible.

The constant ebb and flow of changing colours and twisty nature of the ceiling make this a prime photo spot. Given how busy the bridge can be, you may find it hard to get a 'quiet' shot so choose your moments wisely.

Is it best to visit Saloma Bridge by day or night? Saloma Bridge is free to visit from 5am to 1am so can be visited generally at any time of day but at night is certainly best, when the bridge becomes 'alive' with lights!

Given the magnificent colours and brilliantly bright LEDs that pulsate in the dark, we'd recommend visiting from the early evening onwards, to see all the lights. Also in the daytime, the temperatures in KL can be pretty hot so it is much more pleasant to explore this area at night.

Saloma Bridge's light display often changes to coincide with public holidays or festivals so if your trip to KL coincides with a public holiday, the Saloma Bridge lights may do a special display to mark this occasion.
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Saloma Bridge is very safe to visit (KL generally is very safe, with overall crime rates even falling by 10% in 2022 /23).

That said, given its new prominence as a tourist attraction, it attracts thousands of people daily and large crowds of tourists gathering is not uncommon - so always keep an eye on your valuables and be on the lookout for any pickpockets.

One thing to be aware of is the amount of local photographer 'touts' that congregate in large numbers, offering to take your pictures on their mobile phones, often using special light rigs.

They can be pretty persistent and usually charge a few Ringgit per picture. Note these rogue photographers are a common problem in KL, especially around the Petronas Towers.

They have been banned from congregating in the park directly below the Petrona Towers but this ban does not include Saloma Bridge.

We also spotted a few street performers dressed as characters like Mickey Mouse who charge to appear in photos.

One other thing to be aware of (especially in the daytime) is that bridges primary purpose is as a cycle and walking lane, so watch out for speeding cyclists whilst taking pictures or posing!

In recent months, a few of the local citizens living around Saloma Bridge (particularly in Kampung Baru) have voiced their concerns about all the traffic that has been created by this unlikely tourist attractions with cars parked everywhere below the bridge.
Alternatively, skip the Line and get your Petronas Twin Towers Ticket With Free Hotel Delivery here >
Many residents have pleaded for tourists to take public transport to the bridge so as not to create too much traffic in the area.

And yes, you can park nearby (there are multiple car parks within a ten minute walk) but locals would prefer you took the LRT.

Thanks for checking out our blog!
We are currently digital nomading / travelling for the next few months around London and Asia (Thailand, Taiwan and Singapore). Check out our travel diaries on Instagram - @.c.k.travels, Tik Tok - @cktravels and on Facebook.

Whilst visiting Saloma Bridge in KL, there are several other attractions to visit nearby. Other things to do nearby including:

Petronas Towers

KL's iconic twin towers must be the most photographed towers in the whole of Malaysia - opened in 1996, these are the tallest twin towers in the world with 88 storeys.

The Petronas Towers can be viewed for free from the KLCC Park / fountains below or get up close with a visit to the viewing platform at the top.

Book your Petronas Tower Tickets here with Get Your Guide or Klook.

Kampung Baru

Located at the northern end of the bridge, Kampung Baru is one of KL's oldest neighbourhoods that is now well now as one of the best foodie destinations in Kuala Lumpur.

Translated as 'New Village, Kampung Baru consists of many traditional wooden houses on stilts plus a huge array of restaurants and street food stalls (make sure you try a Ramly burger!).

We've visited Kampung Baru as part of a Chef's Tour - read about our food tour to KL's Kampung Baru here >

Try this - Kuala Lumpur's best food tours >

KLCC Park and Symphony Lake

If you are visiting Saloma Bridge by night, be sure to head on over to the KLCC Symphony Lake afterwards for the free nightly fountain performance, set against a beautiful backdrop of the lit up Petronas Towers.

Two musical fountains spring into life every half hour from 7:30pm onwards until 10pm daily.

We've read online that the shows on the half hour are lights only but when we visited KLCC and Symphony Lake in October 2023, the 9:30pm display we saw had both lights and music.

One of the most fun free things to do in Kuala Lumpur and a tad 'Las Vegas', the KLCC Symphony Lake could be classed as a little naff but is fine to combine with a night time trip to see Petronas Tower and the bridge lit up.

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Saloma Bridge in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (2023) - CK Travels

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The Instagrammable Saloma Bridge in Kuala lumpur, Malaysia - a new pedestrian bridge with LED lighting and views of the Petronas Towers

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25 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN IPOH [MALAYSIA GUIDE]

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What To Do in Ipoh?

Ipoh is located halfway between and Kuala Lumpur. It is the capital of the state of Perak in .

We spent 3 beautiful days in Ipoh, discovering its heritage, temples, mosques, colorful markets, delicious street food, impressive caves, and a lot more which we invite you to discover in this post.

Ipoh is probably the most underrated place to visit in Malaysia!

For a relaxing or exhilarating vacation, alone or with family, the city of Ipoh is a must-visit during your trip to Malaysia.

Here is a Teaser about the Best Things to Do in Ipoh:

25 Best Things to Do in Ipoh

1. Start your visit with Ipoh's old town at Market Lane

2. Next, head to the narrow street of Concubine Lane

3. Visit Hong Heng Square

4. Nearby, take a look at BookXcess

5. Check out Tin Alley, one of our favorite places to visit in Ipoh

6. Take plenty of shots at Mural Art's Lane

7. Visit one of the oldest Mosques in Malaysia: Masjid Panglima Kinta

8. Go back in time to Ipoh's Time Tunnel

9. Visit 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery to learn more about Ipoh's history

10. Check out Gerbang Malam Ipoh Night Market

11. Visit the flea market at Memory Lane on Sundays

12. At night, eat local food at Tong Sui Kai, Ipoh's dessert street

13. Follow the heritage trail

14. Visit Ipoh's outskirts, starting with Perak Cave Temple

15. Take a boat ride at Gunung Lang

16. Visit Qing Xin Ling, one of the best things to see in Ipoh

17. Visit Sam Poh Tong Temple, one of our favorite temples in Ipoh!

18. Explore Tasik Cermin to see the Mirror Lake!

19. Kek Lok Tong Temple

20. Be amazed at Kellie's castle

21. Explore HOGA: Gaharu Tea Valley

22. Be amazed at Gua Tempurung, some of the most impressive caves we've ever visited!

23. Have fun white water rafting in Gopeng

24. Lata Kinjang, one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia!

25. For families have fun at Lost World Tambun (amusement park)

BEST RESTAURANTS IN IPOH

WHERE TO STAY IN IPOH?

HOW TO GET TO IPOH?

HOW TO GET AROUND IN IPOH?

HOW MANY DAYS TO VISIT IPOH?

IS IPOH WORTH VISITING IN MALAYSIA?

RELATED POSTS

25 Best Things to Do in Ipoh

1. Start your visit with Ipoh's old town at Market Lane

Just like in Penang or part of Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, we love the heritage shophouses built around Malaysia. In the old town of Ipoh, you will find many of them, turned into trendy cafes, restaurants, craft shops and so much more.

We invite you to wander through Market Lane, one of our favorite streets in Ipoh! There are street arts everywhere as well, which is super cool!
Location: here
2. Next, head to the narrow street of Concubine Lane

Concubine Lane is another trendy street in Ipoh and probably the most visited. When we went there it was actually jam-packed!

Nevertheless, we enjoyed taking a walk through this narrow lane, filled with many fun shops. You can also try a lot of different street food. As you know, Malaysia is famous for its great food all over the country!

While Market Lane and Concubine Lane are 2 of the most famous streets in Ipoh's old town, make sure to walk to the other neighboring streets to discover more of Ipoh!
Location: here
3. Visit Hong Heng Square

Kong Heng Square is set in an old colonial-style houses with a mix of renovated and old. It's a bit of a hipster zone with small cafes, hip clothes shops, and souvenirs.

This is also where we did some shopping and took the opportunity to have something to eat.

4. Nearby, take a look at BookXcess

For some reason, which we still don't know why, bookstores in Malaysia are all super cool! And BookXcess is another one of them.

Located at the end of Concubine Lane, make sure to visit this place. The underground looks like an old huge safe from a bank with steel bars as the door and deposit boxes with books placed around it. Very unique!

They also have a section dedicated to the late Yasmin Ahmad, the famous director of famous TV commercials and movies back in the day. She tackled topics that speak about diversity and the importance of tolerance of one another in a multiracial and multicultural country.

5. Check out Tin Alley, one of our favorite places to visit in Ipoh

If like us you love vintage vibes, you are going to adore Tin Alley! This venue showcases vintage furniture and decorations. It's sort of like a museum, a venue (the day we visited there was a cool band playing live music on the 2nd floor), and a restaurant altogether! So hard to describe exactly what it is!

Anyway, the decor and ambiance are really cool and worth a visit. On the top floor, the restaurant called Galleries offers really good pizza! Probably the best in town 🙂

It's also a great place to take fun Instagrammable shots!
Location: here
6. Take plenty of shots at Mural Art's Lane

A bit like in Penang, Ipoh is full of awesome street art! They are everywhere. But in particular in Mural Art's Lane!

Although some murals are a bit deteriorated, many of them are really nice to take photos! The Lane is rather long with many different art themes!

This is exactly what we love about Ipoh! So take your time to stroll through Mural Art's Lane, one of the best things to do in Ipoh...
Location: here
7. Visit one of the oldest Mosques in Malaysia: Masjid Panglima Kinta

Just behind Mural Art's Lane is the Masjid Panglima Kinta, one of the oldest Mosques in the country (from 1898 to be precise)! This Mosque is absolutely stunning.

There we met a guide who freely explained to us about the construction of the Mosque, a bit about Islam in Malaysia, and some fun facts about Ipoh!

With its blue dome, Masjid Panglima Kinta almost looks like some places in Santorini, Greece.

With its large marble slabs, tall minarets, and beautiful prayer hall, we highly recommend stopping for a visit at Masjid Panglima Kinta after you finish your walk through the Mural Lane.
Location: here
8. Go back in time to Ipoh's Time Tunnel

Time Tunnel, is like Ali Baba cave. You can find everything!

In this heritage old Ipoh building, you can see an interesting eclectic collection of objects from pre-war to the 80s, that transports you back in time. We found here many memories and familiar objects from our childhoods. The entrance fee is 8 MYR.

The shop on the ground floor of the Time Tunnel sells various handicrafts made in the region, by local artisans.
Location: here
9. Visit 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery to learn more about Ipoh's history

If you are interested in knowing more about Ipoh, its history, and seeing some old photography then we recommend visiting 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery located near the Time Tunnel.

Here the entrance fee is 10 RM.

They also have art exhibitions and shops for all sorts of handicrafts.
Location: here
Website: here
10. Check out Gerbang Malam Ipoh Night Market

From 6pm until midnight, head to Gerbang Malam Ipoh Night Market. Here you can buy all sorts of things, there are also artists playing music everywhere, and many eateries around.

A fun things to do in Ipoh at night!
Location: here
11. Visit the flea market at Memory Lane on Sundays

If you are visiting Ipoh on a Sunday, then make sure to take a look at the flea market on Memory Lane.

This is a fun place to visit, with lots of activities, live bands, great food etc.

The vendors are selling everything you can imagine. If you like antiques, then this is the best time to buy some unique items.
Location: here
12. At night, eat local food at Tong Sui Kai, Ipoh's dessert street

If you want to experience the true Ipoh local life, then head to Tong Sui Kai at Jalan Carey Street which is filled with stalls serving all kinds of local dishes! At night this place gets very crowded with locals, especially on weekends.

Tong Sui Kai, is actually known as dessert street since many stalls serve delicious desserts. However, during our visit, we could find all sorts of food. And every single dish we tried was absolutely delicious.

The atmosphere is really awesome, hence this is one of the best things to do in Ipoh.
Location: here
13. Follow the heritage trail

During your walk in Ipoh's old town, you can also follow the Heritage Trail, which will bring you to the most historical places around the city.

Some of the main sights are Ipoh Train Station, The Palace of Justice, and Birch Memorial Clock Tower.

The Birch Memorial Clock Tower is a significant historical landmark in Ipoh, named in honor of J.W.W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak. This clock tower stands tall as a symbol of Ipoh's colonial past and offers a great spot for taking photographs.

You can collect the map at the Tourist Center or also see the map online here.

14. Visit Ipoh's outskirts, starting with Perak Cave Temple

Ipoh is full of amazing Chinese temples nestled in caves. Indeed there are many amazing caves to visit in Ipoh (more on that later).

Perched within a limestone hill, the Perak Cave Temple is a breathtaking religious site adorned with intricate sculptures and colorful murals.

As you ascend the steep stairs leading to top of the cliff, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Ipoh and its surrounding countryside. Be aware though that the way. to the top is not very easy with lots and lots of stairs. But the view is rewarding for sure!
Location: here
15. Take a boat ride at Gunung Lang

Near Perak Cave Temple, you can visit Gunung Lang.

The highlight of Gunung Lang is undoubtedly its stunning lake. As you approach the area, you'll be greeted by a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery and limestone hills.

Here you can take a boat ride to a recreational area, perfect for a family outing over the weekend.

There is also a small zoo attached to Gunung Lang.
Location: here
16. Visit Qing Xin Ling, one of the best things to see in Ipoh

Qing Xin Ling, was by far one of our favorite things we visited in Ipoh!

This is a charming cultural village located in the serene countryside near Ipoh. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's a unique cultural and natural experience.

At Qing Xin Ling, you can walk around the lake and experience life as it used to be in Chinese villages around a beautiful lake. Qing Xin Ling offers cultural activities and workshops, providing an opportunity to learn about Chinese customs and traditions. You might participate in activities like tea ceremonies, Chinese calligraphy, or even traditional games.

Our favorite part was Memory Lane along a cliff, showcasing old stores.

At the entrance you can also rent free bicycles, to make your visit even more fun!

Make sure to visit this place, it's 100% worth it!
Location: here
17. Visit Sam Poh Tong Temple, one of our favorite temples in Ipoh!

Without a doubt, Sam Poh Tong Temple is one of the most interesting temples in Ipoh!

Sam Poh Tong Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple. It is one of the oldest and most significant cave temples in the country, known for its stunning natural surroundings, impressive cave chambers, and intricate Buddhist statues and artwork.

When you visit Sam Poh Tong Temple in Ipoh, you will be in complete awe!

Make sure to visit all the way inside the cave, as this is where lies the most interesting part! A sort of hidden world, with a huge temple surrounded by big cliffs. This place felt so special! An absolute must-see in Ipoh!

On that street there are many other temples such as Nam Thean Tong Temple and Ling Sen Tong Temple, however Sam Poh Tong seems to be the most interesting one!
Location: here
18. Explore Tasik Cermin to see the Mirror Lake!

Tasik Cermin, also known as the Mirror Lake, is a hidden gem located in Ipoh near Sam Poh Tong Temple.

This stunning lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and the unique mirror-like reflections it creates, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The main attraction of Tasik Cermin is, of course, the mirror-like reflection on the lake's surface. The calm and clear waters create a perfect mirror effect, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is just right.

You can choose between 2 different lakes to go on a boat ride and explore various limestone caves.
Location: here
19. Kek Lok Tong Temple

In the same area, you can visit another spectacular cave temple in Ipoh, Kek Lok Tong.

Becoming a place of worship in the 1920s, the cave withstood the destruction of the surrounding mining companies, of which the site was part in the 1960s.

Inside, in addition to a few visible stalactites and stalagmites, you can see various statues of Buddhas and Chinese deities. The high walls of this cavity are beautifully sculpted by centuries of erosion.

There is also a beautiful garden to be visited with a fabulous lake at the center.

20. Be amazed at Kellie's castle

After discovering Ipoh and its surroundings, we decided to explore the south of the Perak region, starting with the marvelous Kellie's Castle.

A short drive from Ipoh lies this unfinished Castle built by a Scottish planter (William Kellie Smith) in the early 20th century. The castle's Gothic architecture and surrounding gardens make for an intriguing visit, and the tale of its construction is equally captivating.

Some didactic panels explain the eventful life of this engineer and the history of his castle.

We spent quite a lot of time exploring the castle. At the top, there was a nice cooling breeze which was really enjoyable!
READ: FULL GUIDE FOR A VISIT AT KELLIE'S CASTLE
21. Explore HOGA: Gaharu Tea Valley

If you want to see unusual tea plantations, then HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley is for you. Indeed, it is not a classic plantation of Oolong tea or green tea, more classic and growing on kinds of hedge normally not exceeding one meter.

Here, it is Gahuru, a variety growing on types of small trees reaching 2 m high. It is a tea appreciated for its particularly renowned medicinal virtues.

The site can be visited via a van tour. You can taste the famous tea on the terrace of one of the shops and appreciate the very green landscape surrounding the estate.

Overall, a great and informative visit as we knew little about Gahuru tree.

22. Be amazed at Gua Tempurung, some of the most impressive caves we've ever visited!

Visiting Gua Tempurung, one of the largest limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia, near Ipoh is an exciting adventure for nature enthusiasts and those interested in exploring caves.

Here you can choose from 4 different trails (Dry and Wet).

As you enter the cave, you'll immediately be greeted by the grandeur of Gua Tempurung. The cave mouth opens up into a massive chamber, and you'll begin your descent into the depths of the cave. Some chambers are reaching 600m in height.

Inside the cave, you'll also encounter an awe-inspiring array of limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The cave's interior is adorned with these natural sculptures, each formed over centuries by the slow drip of mineral-rich water.

Honestly, for us, it is one of the most impressive caves we've ever visited! For sure, one of the best things to see near Ipoh!

23. Have fun white water rafting in Gopeng

It was only until we drove to this area, that we saw lots of advertising about White Water Rafting in Gopeng.

Gopeng is a small town near Ipoh in Malaysia where HOGA Tea Plantation is located. It is indeed known for its rafting adventure that combines the thrill of navigating through fast-flowing river rapids with the beauty of the lush rainforest scenery.

Most tour operators provide transportation from Ipoh or nearby cities, making it convenient for visitors. Once you arrive at the spot, you'll be provided with essential gear, including a life jacket, a helmet, and a paddle. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear that can get wet and stay securely on your feet.

And HAVE FUN!
>> MORE INFO HERE
24. Lata Kinjang, one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia!

Lata Kinjang is a stunning waterfall located in the state of Perak, 30-40 minute drive from Ipoh.

This waterfall is renowned for its majestic beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists.

The highlight of Lata Kinjang is, of course, the waterfall itself. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia, standing at an impressive height of over 850 feet (260 meters). The sight of water cascading down the limestone cliffs is truly awe-inspiring.

To reach the waterfall's base, you'll need to take a short and relatively easy hike along a well-marked trail. As you progress along the trail, there are several viewing points where you can pause and admire the waterfall from different angles. These points offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Location: here
25. For families have fun at Lost World Tambun (amusement park)

Lost World of Tambun is a popular family-friendly theme park in Ipoh.

It's known for its thrilling rides, water attractions, natural hot springs, and a range of other activities that cater to visitors of all ages.

The water park at Lost World of Tambun is one of its main attractions. It features a variety of water rides and slides, including tube rides, body slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

Lost World of Tambun is home to a collection of tigers. You can observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance and learn more about their conservation efforts.
Location: here
Website: here
BEST RESTAURANTS IN IPOH

Like most places in Malaysia, food is a BIG thing! Ipoh is home to Malaysia's white coffee and offers amazing dishes including great desserts!

As cliché as it sounds, to immerse yourself in its rich past, you have to try the foods that Ipoh is proud of.

1. Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong

Ipoh is synonymous with white coffee! Head to Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong in Ipoh Old Town to enjoy an authentic, rich and aromatic cup of this popular drink. Locals enjoy theirs with an order of Danzhi (toast topped with a creamy boiled egg)! Founded in 1937, this humble cafe has been around for over 80 years!
Location: here
2. Kedai Makanan Nam Heong

Nam Heong is Ipoh's most popular restaurant! This hawker like place is really unique and worth the experience in Ipoh! Come enjoy delicious, freshly baked Egg Tarts, Chee Cheong Fun, Dim Sum and other famous dishes!
Location: here
3. Kedai Kopi Weng Seng

This place is a hidden gem in Ipoh! Famous for their traditional hotpot with rich aroma served in a unique way! Go there especially for dinner, as they put all the tables on the street making it a very nice atmosphere!
Location: here
4. Morel Restaurant

If you are looking for something more modern, then we highly recommend Morel. Here you can expect fancy top-notch food. You should try their dry-aged fish which is absolutely divine!
Location: here
WHERE TO STAY IN IPOH?

In the city of Ipoh, you will find accommodation at all prices, in the city center or a little further out. Here are our top recommendations:

1. Weil - the best value for money

Weil is located just outside the old town, but still close enough to walk there. The rooms are very clean, the hotel is fairly well maintained and the breakfast is included. They also have parking spaces.

On top of that, they have an amazing rooftop pool with an incredible view of Ipoh! For us, Weil has the best value for money in Ipoh!

2. Belakang KongHeng - the most charming one!

If you want to stay in the heart of the old town in a heritage building to fully live the Ipoh experience, then we highly recommend Belakang HongHeng.

Located near Concubine Street, you will be in the middle of the action in Ipoh, staying in a beautifully renovated building.

3. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat - the most luxurious one

If you want to experience something completely unique and unforgettable, then we recommend The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat.

Set against limestone hills, this hotel provides a natural hot springs bath, a beautiful cave with a fantastic restaurant, ice baths and so much more. This is the ultimate luxury experience in Ipoh!

HOW TO GET TO IPOH?

From Kuala Lumpur:

By Car: Ipoh is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Expressway (E1). The journey is straightforward.

By Bus: There are numerous bus services that operate between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh. Buses depart from various terminals in Kuala Lumpur, including Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS). The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.

By Train: You can take a KTM ETS (Electric Train Service) from Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) to Ipoh Railway Station. The ETS offers a comfortable and efficient option, with a journey time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Tour group: For a peace of mind solution, opt for a tour group. The organized tour will pick you up from your hotel in KL and show you the main sights. in Ipoh! See here

2. From Penang:

By Car: Ipoh is about a 2-hour drive from Penang via the North-South Expressway (E1).

By Bus: Several bus companies operate services between Penang and Ipoh. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route and stops.

By train: Ipoh is also easily accessible by train from Penang. MORE INFO HERE

HOW TO GET AROUND IN IPOH?

Getting around in Ipoh is really easy. You can take the bus and Grab.

City bus: the cheapest transport, but often with connections, it takes time.

Grab: The app is easy to use and inexpensive. Just download the Grab app and you will always find a driver in Ipoh!

Scooter rental: ONLY if you have your international license and insurance. We didn't try but it must be a fun experience. The traffic in Ipoh is not bad, so it's relatively easy to drive, compared to Kuala Lumpur...

HOW MANY DAYS TO VISIT IPOH?

To cover all the best things to do in Ipoh which we listed in this article, you will need at least 3 full days (excluding the Lost World Tambun Amusement Park).

2-3 days, will give you a good amount of time to explore Ipoh's old town as well as the outskirts of the city which has plenty of great places to visit!

So if your intention is to visit Ipoh during a weekend trip, then try to arrive Friday night, so you can start your visit on Saturday morning!

IS IPOH WORTH VISITING IN MALAYSIA?

Ipoh, Malaysia, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you're exploring its historic streets, marveling at its cave temples, or indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine, Ipoh offers a myriad of experiences that will leave you enchanted. So yes, Ipoh is absolutely worth a visit if you are in Malaysia! So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure to discover the hidden gems of Ipoh, a city that will undoubtedly capture your heart.
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25 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN IPOH [MALAYSIA GUIDE]

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In this post, we listed the best things to do in Ipoh! From its old town to cave temples and amazing food there is a lot to do in Ipoh.

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LANGKAWI: Hét #1 EILAND van Maleisië: Stranden, dieren & ALLE sights in 4K

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LANGKAWI: Hét #1 EILAND van Maleisië: Stranden, dieren & ALLE sights in 4K

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Begeleide fietstochten in Kuala Lumpur Maleisië met MikeBikes

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Fietstocht Mike bikes

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Kuala Lumpur ontdekken op een echte oranje Nederlandse fiets!
Het kan met MikeBikes door het boeiende en authentieke Kuala Lumpur! MikeBikes is de enige aanbieder van deze unieke ervaring. Mis het dus niet!
De ontwikkeling in Kuala Lumpur staat niet stil, de verstedelijking verandert in rap tempo. Gelukkig is er nog altijd een verborgen authentiek Kuala Lumpur, waar een smeltkroes van bezienswaardigheden, lokale markten, geuren en niet in de laatste plaats de vriendelijkheid van de lokale bevolking te vinden is.

We nemen je mee op een onvergetelijk avontuur. De fiets is het ideale middel om het échte Kuala Lumpur te ontdekken. En wie kan er nou beter dan de lokale gidsen vertellen over het ontstaan en de cultuur van deze boeiende wereldstad? Privé of toch liever een groepstour? Het kan allemaal bij MikeBikes 🧡🚲🧡!

Zelfs lokalen die een tour fietsen bij ons zijn enthousiast over het verkennen en de ervaringen met nieuwe plekken in 'The City of Contrasts and Diversity'!

Met jouw deelname draag je bij aan een schoner milieu en laat je de lokalen profiteren!

Extra informatie voor toeristen:
Op 1 december 2023 is een registratie voor reizigers naar Maleisië aangekondigd, dit geldt voor toeristen en iedereen die voor het eerst naar Maleisië reist.

Reizigers die Maleisië binnenkomen moeten zich binnen drie dagen voor aankomst online registreren voor de Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). De registratie is verplicht per 1 januari 2024.

U kunt dit doen op de website van de Maleisische immigratie:
https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main onder het kopje 'registration'.

De volgende groepen zijn uitgezonderd van registratie:
- Reizigers die doorreizen naar Singapore en niet langs de douane komen
- Diplomaten
- Mensen met een 'Permanent Resident' status en 'Long Term-Pass'

Note: MikeBikes kan je niet helpen met het invullen van de MDAC. Voor vragen verwijzen we je naar de Nederlandse Ambassade in Maleisië.

Bron: https://embassymalaysia.nl/

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Begeleide fietstochten in Kuala Lumpur Maleisië met MikeBikes

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fietstocht fietstochten Kuala Lumpur Kualalumpur Mikebikes Maleisië fietstour fietstours fietsen fiets fietshuur fietsvakantie fietsexcursie fietsgids gids gidsen cycling tour cycling tours cycletour cycletours cycle tours backpackers backpackingmalaysia The Best of Kuala Lumpur Classic Kuala Lumpur Sunset and Night Tour Kuala Lumpur's Authentic Experience.

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Wat te doen in Kuala Lumpur: onze beste reistips voor de eerste keer - Lone Drifters

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Wat te doen in Kuala Lumpur: onze beste reistips voor de eerste keer - Lone Drifters

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Kuala Lumpur is een megastad waar wij nooit uitgekeken raken. De stad staat bekend als culturele smeltkroes van Zuidoost-Azië. Inmiddels ben ik al vijf keer in Kuala Lumpur geweest en ik blijf terugkomen. En dat is niet zo gek, Kuala Lumpur staat vaak bovenaan de bucketlist van reizigers die een beetje van alles willen meemaken: street food, wild nachtleven, tempels, mega grote […]

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White coffeeshop

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Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

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10 Tips voor een bezoek aan de Cameron Highlands in Maleisië

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Cameron Highlands is een hoogvlakte gelegen in centraal Maleisië met een uniek landschap van golvende groene heuvels vol theeplantages. In 1885 is dit gebied ontdekt door de Britse expeditieleider William Cameron en vanaf dat moment vestigden veel Britse kolonisten zich in hier vanwege het koelere klimaat. De lage temperaturen zorgden niet alleen voor fijne leefomstandigheden, maar waren ook heel geschikt voor het produceren van thee. De Cameron Highlands is hierdoor uitgegroeid tot de grootste theeplantage van Maleisië. Met een gemiddelde temperatuur van zo'n 23 graden is deze bestemming ook een heerlijke afwisseling tijdens je reis. Ben je benieuwd naar wat er allemaal te doen is? Hier lees je mijn tips voor de Cameron Highlands!

Tip: In de avonden kan het stevig afkoelen dus neem een warme trui en lange broek mee.

Tanah Rata is de uitvalsbasis voor je bezoek aan de Cameron Highlands. Dit is het grootste dorp in de regio en hier vind je de meeste hotels, restaurants en winkels. Bijzonder mooi of gezellig is het dorp niet maar het is wel de plek waar veel wandelpaden starten en tours beginnen. Je komt hier vooral voor de mooie plekken in de omgeving. Die omgeving kan je verkennen met een tour maar je kunt ook een scooter huren en zelf op pad gaan. Dit geeft je alle vrijheid om te gaan en staan waar je wilt en dit verhuur bedrijf is een betrouwbare zaak om een scooter te huren.

De meeste mensen reizen van Taman Negara en Penang (Georgetown) naar de Cameron Highlands. Lees hieronder hoe je er vanuit deze bestemmingen komt.

Van Taman Negara naar de Cameron Highlands

Met de bus: De bus van Taman Negara naar de Cameron Highlands doet er zo'n 6 uur over. Tickets kan je hier reserveren.

Met de bus + boot: Je kunt deze route ook gedeeltelijk met de boot afleggen. Je bent dan één uur langer onderweg en het is wat duurder dan de bus, maar je maakt dan wel een waanzinnig mooie boottocht! In totaal ben je 6,5 uur onderweg als je met de bus en boot reist. Tickets kan je hier reserveren.

Van Penang naar de Cameron Highlands

Met de bus: Stap in Georgetown op de bus naar de Cameron Highlands. Deze busrit duurt 4,5 uur tot 5 uur en kan je boeken via je accommodatie op Penang.

Een bezoek aan de Cameron Highlands zal je verrassen door de dromerige landschappen en de aangename temperaturen. Het is een prachtige omgeving om te wandelen langs en door de vele theeplantages. Probeer je bezoek buiten de weekenden om te plannen want in de weekenden kan het er behoorlijk druk worden.

Hiken door de jungle en plantages van de Cameron Highlands

Wanneer je gek bent op hiken, dan ben je in de Cameron Highlands op de juiste plek. De golvende landschappen vervelen geen moment. Er zijn vele verschillende trails te lopen die zijn aangegeven met cijfers. Een populaire hike is de combinatie van trail 10 en 6. Deze hike begint in de ruige jungle en eindigt middenin de theevelden. Dit is het startpunt, waarbij je eerst een bouwplaats oversteekt en via een smalle trap de heuvel oploopt. Je wandelt een uur lang, steil omhoog en kunt even uitrusten bij dit uitzichtpunt. Wanneer het niet mistig is, kijk je vanaf hier uit over de hele stad. Wanneer je terug naar beneden loopt, volg je pad 6 en hier begint het echte avontuur. Je daalt af via smalle, dichtbegroeide paden, wandelt langs boerderijen en ziet locals aan het werk op het land. Eenmaal beneden aangekomen, ruik je de theevelden al en wandel je dwars door de Cameron Tea Valley, het eindpunt van de hike. Cameron Tea Valley is de enige plek waar je de theeplukkers van dichtbij aan het werk kunt zien en zelf door de theevelden kunt wandelen.

Let op: De afdaling naar beneden is vrij steil en met regen kunnen sommige stukken het best glad zijn. Trek daarom stevige schoenen aan wanneer je gaat hiken.

Bezoek de BOH Sungai Palas Tea Viewpoint

De grootste theeplantage in de Cameron Highlands is BOH Sungai en er zijn verschillende plantages van dit bedrijf die je een bezoek kunt brengen. Deze theeplantage bestaat al meer dan 90 jaar! Een van de mooiste plekken is het BOH Sungai Palas Tea Viewpoint en het is het leukste om dit viewpoint te bezoeken met eigen vervoer, zoals een scooter. De route er naartoe is namelijk adembenemend mooi en je zult regelmatig willen stoppen om te genieten van het uitzicht of een foto te nemen. Vanaf deze locatie kom je langs meerdere uitzichtpunten over de theeplantages. Zeker tijdens de zonsopkomst is het uitzicht fenomenaal! Aangekomen bij BOH Sungai Palas Tea Viewpoint kun je natuurlijk een verse kop thee drinken terwijl je over de gehele vallei heen kijkt. Vraag aan het personeel welke thee je echt moet proeven en laat je verrassen.

Tip: Het is goed om te weten dat je hier niet door de theevelden kunt wandelen en de fabrieksrondleiding is vervangen door een videoruimte.

Waan je in Engelse sferen bij The Smokehouse

Als je in Engelse stijl thee wilt drinken dan is The Smokehouse een fantastische plek. Er zijn verschillende woonkamers waar je lekker een kop thee kunt drinken of een spelletje kunt spelen en bij goed weer zijn er ook in de tuin leuke plekjes te vinden. Voor een stijlvolle overnachting in de Cameron Highlands kun je ook verblijven bij The Smokehouse Hotel.

Bezoek de thee fabriek bij de BOH Tea Plantation

Een kleinschalige theeplantage waar je een rondleiding kunt krijgen in de fabriek is de BOH Tea Plantation. Als je aankomt bij het restaurant kun je eerst even een kop thee drinken met wat lekkers en daarna zul je een rondleiding door de fabriek krijgen van zo'n van tien minuten. Hoewel het leuk is om een inkijkje te krijgen in de fabriek ontbrak tijdens mijn bezoek helaas iedere vorm van uitleg over het proces.

Drink een aardbeien milkshake bij een aardbeienboerderij

Wie dol is op aardbeien, mag een bezoek aan een aardbeienboerderij niet overslaan in de Cameron Highlands. Niet alleen thee groeit goed in dit gebied, ook voor aardbeien is het koelere klimaat ideaal. Tijdens een bezoek aan de kweker, krijg je een korte rondleiding en mag je zelf aardbeien plukken waar je later een aardbeien milkshake van kunt laten maken. Ik heb een bezoek gebracht aan Healthy Strawberry Farm, een gastvrije en rustige boerderij. De grootste aardbeienboerderij die je kunt vinden in de Cameron Highlands is The Big Red Strawberry Farm maar hier kan het wel wat drukker zijn.

Bezoek Mossy Forest in de Cameron Highlands

Vlakbij de grootste theeplantage van de Cameron Highlands vind je een mosrijk bos genaamd Mossy Forest. Hier kan je een leuke wandelen maken over de mooi aangelegde houten vlonders. De wandeling duurt ongeveer twintig minuten waarbij je een klein rondje loopt door het mystieke bos. Het gebied is bijzonder vanwege zijn hoge ligging op 2.000 meter hoogte en de rijke biodiversiteit. De laaghangende wolken zorgen voor constante mist en vochtigheid wat de ideale omstandigheden creëert voor het ontstaan van dikke lagen mos, enorme varens en bloemen als orchideeën. Onderweg naar Mossy Forest kan je een stop maken bij dit viewpoint waar je over de theevelden heen kunt kijken.

Tip: Wil je een wat ruiger gebied bezoeken met ongeveer dezelfde landschappen maar zonder aangelegde wandelpaden? Maak dan een wandeling bij Coral Hill. Dit is ook een mossig bos, maar deze plek kennen nog maar weinig mensen.

Kougen - Dit Japanse restaurant serveert heerlijke rijst bowls en dim sum.
Cado Café - Een hip café is een leuke stop in het dorpje Brinchang. Ze serveren heerlijke koffie met havermelk en hebben de lekkerste aardbeien gebakjes.
Cha Ren Tea House - Voor een echte lokale ervaring en leuke ontmoeting kun je langs bij dit authentieke theehuis. De eigenaren zullen je met veel enthousiasme alles leren over de Maleisische en Chinese thee rituelen. Reken erop dat je hier 45 minuten zoet bent.
Singh Chapati Urban Restaurant - Op veel plekken in de Cameron Highlands kun je genieten van de Indiase keuken, maar dit is het best beoordeelde restaurant van de hele regio. Ze serveren de lekkerste roti en curry's voor een kleine prijs.
Jungle Bar - Voor een drankje en wat gezelligheid is dit de place to be. Er is een bar, pooltafel en je ontmoet er makkelijk andere reizigers.

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10 Tips voor een bezoek aan de Cameron Highlands in Maleisië

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De Cameron Highlands is een fijne afwisseling tijdens je reis door Maleisië. Lees hier onze tips voor de leukste dingen om te doen!

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Kek Lok Tong Temple in Ipoh, Malaysia - CK Travels

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This post may contain affiliate links to tours and hotels. These help us earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.
One of the most beautiful temples in Ipoh, Kek Lok Tong is a limestone cave temple built into the side of the mountain with a gorgeous garden and lakes.

Meaning 'the Cave of Great Happiness', Kek Lok Tong temple is one of the best free attractions in Ipoh and a top Ipoh thing to do.

The setting is simply stunning and you are surrounded by nature. The temple is split into 3 cave areas plus fun activities (and a LOT of monkeys).

From what to expect to activity information, here is our guide to visiting Kek Lok Tong Temple in Ipoh, Malaysia.
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Around a 20 minute drive from Ipoh's old town, the best way to get to Kek Lok Tong Temple is by car or Grab taxi (there are no public transport options to Kek Lok Temple).

A Grab taxi to Kek Long Temple from Ipoh old town or Ipoh train station will cost around 10 MYR (although prices may slightly vary depending on time of day and location).

There is a large parking lot at Kek Lok Tong Temple which has free parking.

Ipoh Grab taxi prices correct as of December 2023.

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Ipoh's Kek Lok Temple is free to visit - there is no charge to enter the temple or visit the lake / parkland.

The only potential charge is if you hire the bicycles or ride on the boats situated outside the temple near to the lake.

Although entry to Kek Long Tong temple is free, donations are appreciated (as are any purchases made at the small shop inside selling the likes of joss sticks and lotus candles).

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Kek Lok Tong is open 7 days a week from 9am to 4:30pm.

Please note the cycle hire and boat hire concessions are closed on Tuesdays (the hire shop is open 9am to 4pm on weekdays, and 9am to 4:30pm on weekends and public holidays).

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Kek Lok Temple was established as a place of worship in the 1920s although much work has taken place over the years adding new facilities and attractions.

In the 1960s, the temple was closed off and became part of a huge iron mining site, although it returned to its original purpose in the 1970s after mining ceased.

You can still see some of the iron mining sites towards the rear of the site (thankfully the parkland obscures most of the mining activity).

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As you first arrive at Kek Long Temple, other than the sheer rock face and entrance into the cave temple, you'll see a beautiful fishpond and a large statue of Kuan Yin (the Chinese goddess of mercy) with a waterfall running down the mountain in the background.

The setting is absolutely serene. There is also a set of Chinese lions guarding the entrance (the whole area originated as a Chinese settlement).

The steps to the cave entrance are said to have been modelled to resemble the shape of a carp's tail and the opening to be its mouth but we aren't so sure!

You can purchase fish food for 3 MYR at the shop inside the cave to feed the koi carp fish in the front pond only.

From here, you can walk up the steps to enter the Kek Lok Tong Temple. There is also a small accessible ramp on the right hand side for wheelchairs / anyone who cannot walk up the steps.

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Once inside the temple, as well as the incredible naturally formed stalactites that hang from the ceiling, you'll see several deity statues and religious relics.

The Kek Lok Tong complex has a main altar section with several large Buddhist statues (and randomly, several drink vending machines - handy on a hot day!).

The small gift shop inside sells joss sticks for 3 MYR plus lotus candles for 10 MYR.

At the rear of the cave, you can add your personalised wish to the candle and light it, leaving it to burn in a metal frame with lots of other lotus candles.

There are several stone statues inside to marvel at (including Confucius). Many of these statues are quite damp (along with the stairs) due to the damp nature of the cave. As such, do be careful when tackling wet steps inside.

There are several raised staircases and platforms inside the cave, all of which lead up to a second and third level - the complex consists of three caves in total.

Do be sure to find the platform that looks out over the entrance and car park where you first arrived as it offers incredible views of the mountains and sky.

As you approach the exit to the park at the rear of the temple, make sure to check out the set of stairs on the right hand side. This allows you the best access and close up views of all the incredible limestone rock formations and slimy stalactites.

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As well as the cave temple, Kek Lok Tong is renowned for its stunning gardens which include several lakes as well as wildlife galore, peaceful pagodas and walkways.

To get to Kek Lok Tong gardens, take the steps down at the rear of the temple.

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Be sure to look out for monkeys on the steps - we saw several monkeys as we exited the cave temple, although nothing like on the scale of Batu Caves (more on this later).

The first thing you notice in the Kek Lok Tong park and gardens (other than the lakes) is a set of statues at the foot of the stairs - there are about 10 statues in all with descriptions on each.

For instance, the first one you see as you exit the cave at the base of the steps is Pindola, a former power official in the Indian Kingdom who became a Buddhist monk and convinced to King to become one too.

Boat rental prices at Kek Lok Tong including life jackets:

12 MYR for two people for 30 minutes

20 MYR for up to four people for 30 minutes

Bicycle rental prices:

6 MYR for 2 people for 30 minutes

10 MYR for up to 4 people for 30 minutes

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Next up, you'll see one of the longest reflexology footpaths in Ipoh, great for reiki and a popular activity spot. Remember to take off your shoes if you want to feel the full benefit.

If you are porty, there is also a jogging path / walking path that goes around the entire circumference of the Kek Lok Tong lake.

Around the main lake, there are several pagodas serving as resting spots or a place for shade and to escape the sun.

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The lake also contains lots of koi carp and the odd turtle - there are signs here requesting that you don't feed the fish or release any more in here.

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There are several toilet blocks onsite including in the main car park plus in the gardens at the rear

The car parking at Kek Lok Temple is ample - it is also easy to get a Grab taxi back due to all the tourists and visitors that come and go from the site

No swimming is allowed in the lake

The fish food that can be bought at the cave temple gift shop is only to be given to the koi carp out front

Although the official closing time is 4.30pm, temple security may start to close up certain areas beforehand so try to get there no later than 4pm

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Although not something we've seen before at any Buddhist temples or Ipoh temples, one of the most popular things to do at Kek Lok Tong Ipoh temple is to hire a two or four seater bicycle to explore the gardens.

Alternatively, you can hire a duck shaped pedalo boat to float on the small lake at the base of the cliffs.

Given the setting, whilst it isn't quite on the scale of Mirror lake at Tasik Cermin, the boating at the temple looks good fun (and is quite cheap) and a popular activity for families and young children. Lifejackets are provided too and boat hire is around 30 minutes.

Cycle hire and boat hire is available Wednesday to Monday (closed Tuesday) from 9am until 4pm on weekdays, and until 4.30pm on weekends and public holidays.

There are lots of monkeys that call Kek Lok Tong temple and the surrounding limestone cliffs home. Unlike Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, they seem to stay away from the temple and mainly explore / live in the garden.

We saw a couple of monkeys by the lake and a couple on the stairs leading up to the temple.

Most of the monkeys seemed to stay towards the rear of the garden. Indeed, we saw around 10 monkeys including babies scrambling all over the electricity pylon.

Although we don't agree with it, we saw security guards keeping monkeys away from the temple steps by firing catapults at them - jeez!

The monkeys also seemed to be at war with the temple geese - if they could just be more Buddhist and get along with each other!

Yes, we would rate Kek Lok Temple as one of the best free things to do in Ipoh (and so quiet compared to the likes of say Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur).

The setting is peaceful and idyllic with incredible views and vantage points. After visiting the temple, why not hire a bicycle or duck boat pedalo as the prices are pretty inexpensive and kids will love it - just remember to keep an eye out for those cheeky monkeys!

Address: Kek Look Tong, Gunung Rapat, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
Opening hours: 8am-4.30pm daily

The other similar cave temple in Ipoh that is popular with tourists and worshippers is Sam Poh Tong temple, Ipoh's oldest cave temple

Based on our experience, Sam Poh Tong is much quieter and smaller than Kek Lok Tong. The small temple started out as the humble home of a Buddhist monk in 1890 before the main temple and lodgings were constructed by other monks in the 1950s.

As well as a small cave temple, there is a beautiful pond with koi carp out front and several sublime pagodas and incredible ornate places of worshop

Sam Poh Tong temple in Ipoh is free to visit and within walking distance of several other famous Ipoh temples.

M Boutique Hotel

This is where we stayed in Ipoh. It is around a 15 minute walk from the old town and the rooms are huge here, plus the interior decor is quite quirky, especially the reception area.

Each floor is themed and there is also a free laundry onsite - a Grab taxi from here to Concubine Lane is only 5 MYR.

Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Klook.

Brick Box Ipoh

A 3* hotel built in 2016 in the heart of Ipoh Old Town; rooms are modern with red brick walls and flat screen TVs. Check rates and availability for Brick Box Ipoh >

Cititel Express Ipoh

Located on the river and a short walk into Ipoh Old Town, the Cititel Express Ipoh is a 3* hotel with great views of downtown. Check rates and availability for Cititel Express Ipoh >

Other Malaysia blog posts you might like

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Kek Lok Tong Temple in Ipoh, Malaysia - CK Travels

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Guide to Kek Lok Tong limestone cave temple in Ipoh - one of the most beautiful temples in Malaysia with a gorgeous garden and lakes.

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The mossy forest is a natural environment that grows only at the highest elevations of Cameron Highlands and other mountain ranges across Malaysia. At such heights, low-level clouds in the sky driven by winds, blanket the forests with constant mist and moisture - creating an ideal biotope for moss, ferns, lichen and orchids.

This moist tropical evergreen forest is also a rich repository for a varied set of montane creatures, encompassing insects, snakes, frogs, birds and mammals unique to this chilly atmosphere. Visitors may explore the mossy forest through a boardwalk 2km before the peak of Gunung Brinchang, accessible by road from the Boh Tea Sungai Palas intersection.
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The series of wooden platforms winds for about 150m through the mossy forest, but is slippery when wet, though there are rope railings for a light measure of safety. In this chilly environment, stunted stumps, wrinkled leaves and gnarled branches of oak trees clump together, forming dense crowns that portrude furiously from the ground like mushrooms.

As you turn around, look at the rich layers of moss that drape the tree trunks and butteresses, infusing them with a soft, green appearance. Meanwhile, vines, orchids, pitcher plants and other fascinating epiphytes hang loosely from the canopy, perched silently on branches and stems in this chillingly quiet labyrinth.

Venturing below the boardwalk to step on the forest floor, visitors will soon discover its moist peat-like texture, each step leaving deep water-filled imprints on the soil. Perched along the walk is also an observation tower that visitors may climb for a spectacular view of the mountain ranges around Camerons. Finally, at the end lies the trailhead to Gunung Irau, the highest mountain in Cameron Highlands.

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The mossy forest is a natural environment that grows only at the highest elevations of Cameron Highlands and other mountain ranges across Malaysia. At such heights, low-level clouds in the sky driven by winds, blanket the forests with constant mist and moisture - creating an ideal biotope for moss, ferns, lichen and orchids.

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Penang Hill. Leuke attractie met uitkijkpunten in het hart van Penang.

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Penang Hill is een berg op het eiland Penang. Je kunt met een treintje naar de top en boven leuk wandelen. Er zijn verder een paar leuke attracties.

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Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

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Langkawi Island has everything you need for the ultimate beach holiday. White powdery beaches, a wide range of hotels and resorts, delicious food and a huge amount of sights and attractions. You can easily spend a whole week and still long for more.

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Diersoorten

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Diersoorten op Langkawi | Veelzijdig Maleisie

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Informatie over de verschillende diersoorten die je kunt tegenkomen bij een bezoek aan het eiland Langkawi in Maleisie.

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De vuurvliegjes kolonie bij Kuala Selangor | Veelzijdig Maleisie

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De vuurvliegjes kolonie bij Kuala Selangor | Veelzijdig Maleisie

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Informatie over de vuurvliegjes bij Kuala Selangor, een leuke attractie op nog geen uurtje rijden vanaf Kuala Lumpur. Hier kun je een van de grootste vuurvliegjes kolonies ter wereld bezichtigen. Openingstijden, entreekosten, tips, routebeschrijving en meer.

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Kek lok Si temp

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Kek Lok Si tempel: Het grootste tempelcomplex van Maleisië

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Inhetvliegtuig.nl is hét online magazine over luxe reizen. Het staat helemaal in het teken van mooie reisbestemmingen, luxe hotels en gastronomie.

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Tips

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Langkawi (Pulai Langkawi in het Maleis) is een prachtig eiland vol met watervallen, stranden een kabelbaan hoog in de bomen, apen en toffe restaurantjes. Het is de perfecte bestemming in je rondreis door Maleisië als je vanuit Thailand naar Maleisië doorreist door de ligging in het noorden van Maleisië. Ontdek op Lone Drifters wat te doen op Langkawi.
Fun fact: Expeditie Robinson 2022 is opgenomen op de eilandengroep Langkawi. Waarschijnlijk een van de kleinere eilanden rondom Langkawi.
1. Neem de Langkawi Cable Car

De Langkawi Cable Car is een van de leukere highlights van Langkawi. De rit is ongeveer 2 kilometerlang enduurt 15 minuten. Bovenin kun je uitstappen en weer teruggaan wanneer je wilt. Vanuit de hoogte heb je namelijk uitzicht over de Matahari wand, een steile bergklif, en over prachtige watervallen. En bij helder weer kun je ook de zee spotten vanuit deze kabelbaan. De Langkawi-kabelbaan is tevens de steilste kabelbaanrit ter wereld met 42° graden.

De kabelbaan vertrekt vanaf Oriental Village aan de noordwestzijde van het eiland Langkawi. Je kunt hier gemakkelijk met taxi komen of door een scooter te huren.

Tickets voor de kabelbaan kun je bij de balie kopen of online via GetYourGuide (GYG).

Op GYG vind je ook combinatietickets met toegang tot de kabelbaan, maar ooktot de Skydome, SkyRex en 3D Art Langkawi. Optioneel kun je eten en drinken krijgen, toegang tot de glassdoor-gondel, de private VIP-gondel, de rij overslaan en meer fijne activiteiten.
Check alle Langkawi gondeltickets.
2. Payar island voor eilandhoppen

Het eilandje Pulau Payar is een klein koraaleilandje tussen de eilanden Penang en Langkawi. Je kunt hier heerlijk duiken of snorkelen, een van de weinige plekken waar dat aan de westkust van Maleisië kan.
Bekijk ook: duiken en chillen op Pulau Tioman, het mooiste eiland van Maleisië
Vanuit Langkawi kun je prima een dagtour naar het eiland Payar maken. Verblijf je alleen op het eiland Penang of Langkawi; dan is een bezoek aan Pulau Payar de moeite waard.

Er is op het eiland ook een onderwater cabine waar je zonder te zwemmen naar de vissen kunt kijken. Zorg wel dat je de tour op tijd boekt, want het kan behoorlijk druk worden!

3. Art in Paradise Langkawi

In de buurt van Oriental Village, bij de kabel baan, ligt het Art in Paradise. Deze ruimte met een oppervlakte van 21.000 vierkante meter, biedt meer dan honderd interactieve 3D-schilderijen, artistiek geschilderd door een groep getalenteerde internationale kunstenaars. Stap binnen of kruip in de exposities. Deze bijna surrealistische galerij is een must op je bucketlist tijdens je reis in Langkawi.

4. Pantai Cenang

Pantai Cenang is het toeristische centrum van Langkawi. In dit centrum vind je veel leuke guesthouses, winkeltjes, resorts en gezelligheid.

Het is ook hét gebied voor backpackers want je kunt hier goedkoop overnachten. De meeste guesthouses en hostels liggen aan de hoofdstraat Jalan Pantai Cenang.

De duurdere guesthouses liggen aan het strand en dat zijn ook gelijk de populaire accommodaties. Wil je hier overnachten dan kun je het beste op tijd boeken.

Temurun waterval (leuk voor je route op de scooter!)

Seven Wells waterval (te zien vanaf de cable car!)

5. Ga naar Datai Bay: het mooiste strand van Langkawi

Het mooiste strand van Langkawi vind je bij Datai Bay! Hier kwamen wij ook langs met de scooter en dit ligt aan de noordzijde van het eiland. Je vindt hier de meest toegankelijke stranden voor publiek en het water is veel heldere dan op andere stranden op Langkwai.

Langkawi reistips

Zo kom je op Langkawi

Als je van plan bent om een auto te huren op Langkawi, dan raden wij Sunny Cars aan. Huur je via Sunny Cars, dan zijn alle verzekeringen inbegrepen in de prijs. Daarnaast werkt Sunny Cars samen met lokale autoverhuurbedrijven.

Vervoer in Langkawi

Langkawi is een klein eiland in het Noord-Westen van Maleisië, vlakbij de grens met Thailand. Het eiland heeft een omvang van slechts 478,5 vierkante kilometer (184,7 vierkante mijl). Maar dat is nog wel te groot om alles lopend te doen.

Op Langkawi kun je op verschillende manieren het eiland over reizen. Je kunt een taxi nemen of zelf een scooter of auto huren.

Scooter huren Langkawi

De meest logische optie om te reizen op Langkawi is met een scooter. Je kunt verschillende tochtjes langs het strand en watervallen maken.

Auto huren Langkawi

Het eigen vervoer heeft natuurlijk als voordeel dat je zelf kunt gaan en staan waar je wilt. Wil je liever met de auto op het eiland rijden, dan raden wij aan om te kijken op Sunny Cars. Hier vind je goede prijs kwaliteit huurauto's en alles wat je nodig hebt is inclusief in de prijs.

Overnachten Langkawi

Of je nou afgelegen wilt overnachten, een backpacker bent of op zoek bent naar een plek in de natuur, dit zijn de beste plekken omte verblijven op Langkawi.

Hoewel het eiland Langkawi iets minder dan 480 kilometer is, zijn er veel gebieden om uit te kiezen waar je kunt verblijven tijdens je rondreis door Maleisië .

Kuah is de grootste stad en het belangrijkste vervoersknooppunt van Langkawi. Behalve dat het een havenstad is, vind je hier veel winkelmogelijkheden. Het enige wat je wel mist zijn de strandvoorzieningen. Hiervoor zou je een scooter of auto kunnen huren. Een voordeel van een stad is wel: accommodatie kan er goedkoper zijn, het eten is er in overvloed, en rondleidingen en autoverhuur zijn aantoonbaar gemakkelijker te vinden.

Pantai Tengah: zuidwestelijk vind je Pantai Tengah ('Middle Beach' in het Maleis). Dit gebied heeft het langste strand van het eiland, dus de belangrijkste activiteit? Chillen op het strand. De sfeer op Pantai Tengah is relaxt en je vindt hier een paar strandcafés en een backpackersscene met goedkopere accommodatie.

Pantai Cenang: Verder naar het noorden langs de kust vindt je Pantai Cenang. Het witte zand en de palmbomen van dit strand trekken zowel gezinnen als luxe reizigers aan met de gezinsvriendelijke hotels en luxe 5-sterrenresorts.

Pantai Kok: Iets verder naar het westen op Langkawi vind je het afgelegen Pantai Kok. Hier is de toegangspoort naar de jungle te vinden en je vindt hier de op een na hoogste top van het district, Gunung Mat Cincang.

Tanjung Rhu: in het noorden van het eiland vind je het witte zandstrand, mangrovemoerassen en enkele Ha Long Bay-achtige karsttoppen die uit de zee steken. Deze plek is ontzettend mooi en is ook populair bij de lokale bevolking.

Je vindt in Tanjung Rhu veel goedkope eetgelegenheiden. De voorzieningen zijn niet bepaald uitgebreid, dus houdt daar rekening mee.

Beste reistijd Langkawi

De beste reistijd voor Langkawi island of Pulau Langkwai is van juni t/m augustus. Er is niet echt een droogseizoen, maar het is op Langkawi het natst van september tot en met december. Een regenbui duurt dan meestal niet langer dan 2 uur, gelukkig.

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Wat te doen op Langkawi (2024) | The Lone Drifters

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Wat te doen in Langkawi? Bekijk de bezienswaardigheden en leuke dingen te zien zoals watervallen, de kabel baan en slaap in een bungalow.

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Kuala Lumpur calling? Lucky you! Malaysia's capital by day is wonderful but Kuala Lumpur at night is even better!

Kuala Lumpur at night comes alive with many things to do - from the bright lights of Saloma Bridge to street-food bites, Kuala Lumpur is a big bustling city and one of south east Asia's best places to explore in the evening.

If your traveller tastes are gastronomic or curious, we have some sundown suggestions for you on how best to get a kick of Kuala Lumpur at night.

From Kuala Lumpur's best malls to evening tours, make the most with our guide to night-time Kuala Lumpur activities (2024):
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Saloma Bridge is 'lit' - especially at night! Kuala Lumpur's newest free night-time attraction, Saloma Bridge is located in KLCC, an iconic structure that connects the historic Kampung Baru district with the newer skyscrapers and city scape of 'modern' KL.

lluminated each night in bright colours (and often themed in special shades to coincide with public holidays or events), Saloma Bridge is a social media sensation and epic evening activity in Kuala Lumpur (just a 5 minute walk from the Petronas Towers).

Also known as Pintasan Saloma and Kuala Lumpur's most 'dazzling attraction', here is our guide to visiting Saloma Bridge in Kuala Lumpur >

One of Kuala Lumpur's best things to do at night (and tasty too!), Jalan Alor is KL's most famous daily night market (Pasar Malam Taman Connaught night market is bigger but only opens on Wednesday nights).

There is no shortage of good food in Kuala Lumpur but if you fancy a respite from all the shopping mall restaurants or basement food courts, take a trip to Jalan Alor, in the heart of Bukit Bintang.
Read our guide to visiting Jalan Alor, KL's famous night market >

The making of an epic epicurean evening, Jalan Alor (or Jlan Alor) is a fine foodie place to nibble on street food or sit down in an outdoor restaurant and watch the crowds, whilst chowing down on cheap eats (possibly accompanied with buckets of Tiger beer).

Kuala Lumpur's nightlife capital and most lively bars and restaurants can all be found in Changkat Bukit Bintang.

A huge tree lined street packed with bars, pubs and restaurants, Changkat Bukit Bintang is the epicentre for epic nightlife in KL, plus has masses of massage parlours.

A short walk from Jalan Alor night market, Changkat Bukit Bintang is open until very late, with happy hours galore and a popular place for expats and tourists to watch live sports or drink until the early hours.

One of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur at night, from mojitos to massages, sports bars to beer prices, read our guide to visiting Changkat Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur >

Try this - Top Kuala Lumpur Night Tours with Viator >

Kuala Lumpur's iconic twin towers must be the most photographed building in KL at night.

Opened in 1996, these are the tallest twin towers in the world with 88 storeys.

The Petronas Towers can be viewed for free from the KLCC Park / fountains below, or get up close with a visit to the viewing platform on the 86th floor (open until 9pm most nights). This is definitely the best way to see KL at night and it's cityscape from up high.
Alternatively, skip the Line and get your Petronas Twin Towers Ticket With Free Hotel Delivery here >

The Petronas Towers look great by day but even better by night - just be prepared to fight the crowds to get a good spot. There are also lots of photographer 'touts' out at night who offer to take your picture with the towers for a small fee.

Book your Petronas Tower Tickets here with Get Your Guide or Klook.

You might like - 25+ Things to do in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur >

If you are visiting KLCC Park by night, be sure to head on over to the KLCC Symphony Lake afterwards for the free nightly fountain performance, set against the beautiful backdrop of the lit up Petronas Towers.
You might like -

Try this - Symphony Lake and 'River of Life' night tour >

things to do in KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) >
One of the best free things to do in Kuala Lumpur at night, two musical fountains spring into life every half hour from 7:30pm onwards until 10pm daily.

A little bit of 'Las Vegas' in KL, the KLCC Symphony Lake could be classed as a little kitsch / dated but is fine to combine with a night time trip to see Petronas Towers or some KLCC Suria mall shopping.

One of the busiest shopping districts in Kuala Lumpur at night, Chinatown's Petaling Street is a bustling hive of food stalls, market stalls and restaurants.

Petaling Street is fantastic for shopping, including lots of 'counterfeit' goods at low prices. Stall holders are generally assertive (but not aggressive) and will invite you to browse their stalls.

It is marked by two huge Chinese entrance gates at either end of the street and we'd estimate there are over 250 stalls, shops and restaurants along this one stretch.

For the best Kuala Lumpur at night views, head on up to the 33rd floor of Traders hotel to check out the SkyBar.

This is an epic Kuala Lumpur rooftop bar with a huge swimming pool in the middle, so don't have too many cocktails unless you are planning a bar (front) crawl.

Traders SkyBar has sensational sunset views and views of the Petronas Towers lit up at night.

There are a few booths that have unspoilt views of the Petronas Towers but they get taken very quickly (especially in the run-up to sunset) so go to Traders SkyBar early or reserve a table in advance if you want to get a good view all night long.
You might like -Top things to do in Genting Highlands near KL >

Kuala Lumpur's SkyBar also has a daily happy hour at dusk - 'Soul Set Happy Hour' (from 5pm to 7pm).

One of our favourite night-time street food spots in Kuala Lumpur, we'd recommend taking a five minute walk down the road from KLCC Park to Tapak Urban Street Dining, an outdoor plaza of tasty food trucks that has incredible views of the Petronas Towers all lit up.

Kuala Lumpur's night-time food truck depot, Tapak Urban Street Dining has around 30 or so food trucks and is open 7 nights a week from 5pm to midnight.

Food here varies from traditional Malaysian and Indian / Chinese cuisine to international fare like pasta and sushi. Live entertainment often occurs at night and there is a double-decker vape bus too!

For an up-close vantage point of the Petronas Towers accompanied by a cocktail, head on up to Marinis on 57 Rooftop Bar and Italian restaurant.

From champagne to cognac, single malts to mojitos, Marinis on 57 is a KL rooftop bar with real 'altitude' - come for the drinks served with antipasto, stay for the views.

And unlike SkyBar at Traders, you don't have to worry about falling into a swimming pool!

Try this - Discover The Best of Kuala Lumpur by Night tour >

There are many great shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur with the vast majority open until 10pm, so you can shop 'til you drop by day or night. The best malls at night include:

Kuala Lumpur's newest shopping centre as of January 2024, The Exchange TRX shopping mall is one of KL's best malls and open until 10pm every night.

As well as luxury brands like Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton, The Exchange TRX also has more affordable stores like Uniqlo, Ecco and Footlocker.

Combine your Kuala Lumpur at night shopping with a sunset visit to the Exchange TRX rooftop gardens - they offer spectacular views of Bukit Bintang and the Golden Triangle, plus lots of play areas for kids and garden spaces for adults.

You might like - Guide to getting from KLIA Airport to the City >

Bukit Bintang's premier shopping mall at night, for a little more glitz and glamour, head to Pavilion Mall in the evening.

As soon as you arrive, you are greeted by a cool lit-up teacup style fountain, and inside hundreds of shops and restaurants await (most of which are open until 10pm at night).

As well as big brands like Prada and Burberry, there are several specialist sections in Pavilion mall including Tokyo Street on level 6 (complete with Japanese torii gates and cherry blossom trees) plus Gourmet Emporium and the Dining Loft.

Pavilion Elite next door also has many dining options over several levels.
You might like - Things to do in Kuala Lumpur at Christmas >
You might like - the 20 best shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur >

Combine a Kuala Lumpur at night trip to see the Petronas Towers lit up with a KLCC Suria mall shopping session.
You might like - Everything you wanted to know about Don Quijote stores in Japan >

Easily one of the best shopping spots in the city, KLCC Suria has six storeys of shopping from luxury goods to food courts plus top attractions like KLCC Aquarium.

KLCC Suria is a sublime way to shop (and a great KL rainy day activity) with over 350 stores including flagship brands such as Coach, Chanel, Gucci and Prada.

If you are missing home comforts or want some night-time snacks for your hotel room, KLCC Suria is also home to several International supermarkets like Isetan from Japan or a Marks and Spencer (M&S) food store from the UK.

Japan's favourite discount store that specialises in cheap Japanese imported goods and foods!
You might like - Guide to Genting Premium Outlets, KL's shopping centre 'in the sky' >

The Don Don Donki store in Bukit Bintang is open until 2am if you can't get your foodie fix in 7-Eleven or KK Mart.

Originally known as Don Quijote in its homeland of Japan where it has dozens of stores all over the country, Don Don Donki in Lot 10 mall has loads of Japanese food choices and ingredients over 3 floors.

P.S. If you are a fan of all things Don Don Donki then come and join our Don Don Donki Facebook group >
Try this - Kuala Lumpur Night Bicycle Tour >

Changkat Bukit Bintang has a large number of massage parlours and health spas - generally concentrated in the area between Jalan Alor Night Market and the start of all the bars on Changkat Bukit Bintang.

You might like - Things to in Ipoh, Malaysia >
When you first approach the main bar area walking away from Jalan Alor, you'll likely be bombarded with dozens of masseuses throwing their massage menu and spa list in your face - some even follow you down the street a little!

Massage treatments generally start from around 30 MYR for a basic 30 minute foot massage.

Most Kuala Lumpur night spas and massage parlours seem to operate until very late (some are open until 3am).

The best place to watch street performers or live entertainment at night in Kuala Lumpur? Head to the Bukit Bintang crossing where street performers rock up every evening on all four corners of the crossing.

We saw so many different street performers at all four corners of the Bukit Bintang Crossing, from a full on rock band with speakers and amps (very popular and so good) to beat boxers and even a man playing a bucket like drums.

The entertainment quality can vary but the street performers all add to the electric atmosphere of Bukit Bintang.

Just be aware a lot of 'begpackers' operate here (backpackers trying to fund their travels selling necklaces and also singing badly).

Just one block away from the craziness of Jalan Alor, the Commons KL is a food hub and restaurant space that has several upmarkets bars and food outlets (plus a cigar lounge) with local and international food.

The Commons KL is a great place to eat at night if it is raining (given the huge roof covering). We've eaten at the Friendly Fires restaurant here and it was good - lots of happy hours and drink specials too.

For awesome night-time views of KL, head up to KL Tower. It opened in 1997 and at a height of 420m, is the seventh tallest freestanding tower in the world (with the Skytree in Tokyo currently taking the crown as of 2024).

The KL Tower lift is quite the speedy spectacle travelling around 300 meters upwards to the observation deck in less than 1 minute.

There are many things to do at the tower, including an aquarium, an upside down house and a 360 degree revolving restaurant.

You might like - Things to do in Melaka, Malaysia >
KL Tower is open until 10pm every evening, 7 days a week - book your discounted KL Tower ticket with Klook >

Alternatively, book a Kuala Lumpur evening tour with Kuala Lumpur Tower tickets >
Read more about Kuala Selangor Firefly Tour >
Located at the northern end of Saloma bridge, Kampung Baru is one of Kuala Lumpur's oldest neighbourhoods that is now well known as one of the best foodie destinations in Kuala Lumpur.

Many night time food tours go via tasting sessions in Kampung Baru.

Translated as 'New Village', Kampung Baru consists of many traditional wooden houses on stilts plus it has an awesome array of restaurants, buffets and street food stalls at night.
Read our River of Life guide >
Try local dishes like Nasi Kerabu, Satay Pedang and grilled seafood - just follow your noise or look for long lines of eager and hungry locals.

We visited Kampung Baru as part of a Chef's Tour - read about our food tour to KL's Kampung Baru here >

Billed as a 'Japanese lifestyle mall', we actually rate LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre as one of the best malls in Kuala Lumpur at night as it has an outdoor Gourmet Street with late night bars and international cuisines restaurants.
Read more about Cooler Lumpur by Night Vespa Food Tour by Vespalicious >
The LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre Gourmet Street has lots of night-time options from drinking beer-stein at German beer bar Zum Stammtisch to late night Japanese bites or Indian delights.

The Japanese ramen chain Ippudo has a branch on the upper levels of the mall which was super elegant and rather delicious; oodles of noodle dishes and sides!

A night tour and round-trip from Kuala Lumpur, there are several different tours to Kuala Selangor to watch thousands of fireflies that flash across the night sky and along the Selangor River.
Read more about the KL City of Lights Tour with Hop-on Hop-off Bus >
Kuala Selangor Is a small coastal village northwest of Kuala Lumpur famous for its nocturnal, natural light show.

Along the way, see the Sri Shakti Temple, Altingsburg Lighthouse (amazing views of the Melaka Straits) and the Bukit Melawati Hillfort.

One of Kuala Lumpur's newest attractions, the 'River of Life' is free to visit and located very close to Merdeka Square and Kuala Lumpur Chinatown.
You might like - Guide to Jonker Street Night Market in Melaka >

An attempt to regenerate the area with colourful street art and light shows, it is very easy to spot the River of Life in KL at night as it is brightly lit up- look for the mist emanating from the water or incredible illustrations on the surrounding building walls.

The River of Life project KL centres around the convergence point of the Gombak and Klang rivers, against the backdrop of Masjid Sultan Abdul Samad mosque, the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur.

Vroom vroom around Kuala Lumpur at night on a Vespa scooter small group tour run by local operators Vespalicious.

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For all your night-time foodie favourites, this Vespa tour takes in tasty spots like KL Pudu Wai Sek Kai hawker centre to try delicious Chinese food, plus Kampung Baru Night Market and Brickfields Little India.
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The tour finishes at Kwai Chai Hong, a cool night spot in Chinatown packed full of street-art and bars.

Ride in a double-decker bus at night around Kuala Lumpur's most iconic landmarks including KL Tower, Chinatown and the Petronas Towers.

Included on the KL night time hop-on hop-off bus tour is audio commentary plus stops at the National Palace and the historic site of Dataran Merdeka.

The KL City of Light night-time bus tour lasts 2 hours and departs nightly at 8pm.
You might like -Top things to do in Langkawi, Malaysia >
Kuala Lumpur's biggest night-market, Pasar Malam Taman Connaught is open every Wednesday night from 5pm to 1am.

A thriving hawker street market (one of Malaysia's biggest), Pasar Malam Taman Connaught has over 500 stalls selling street-food, souvenirs, plants and more. There is even a small section where you can play carnival style fairground games and win prizes!

From durian to dragonfruit, satay skewers to stinky tofu, there is something to satisfy all tastes and budgets at the once a week Pasar Malam Taman Connaught night market.

If you are tired of sightseeing or it is raining in Kuala Lumpur at night, head to one of Kuala Lumpur's cinemas (most of the KL shopping malls have a cinema / movie theater).

Watch huge Hollywood blockbusters or local Malaysian movies with big boxes of popcorn (possibly on an IMAX screen) - what is not to like?!
Try this - the Top 10 KL tours and excursions with Viator >

Cinemas in KL's downtown area include DADI Cinema Pavilion KL, GSC Berjaya Times Square and GSC LaLaport BBCC.

We went to GSC LaLaport BBCC and the bright interiors and furnishings were incredible. Some have even called GSC Lalaport Malaysia's most Instagrammable cinema!

Time to let off a little steam after traipsing around the streets of KL all day - there are lots of places to sing but Bukit Bintang is the go-to place in Kuala Lumpur for karaoke.

Apart from the karaoke events held in the pubs and bars along Changkat Bukit Bintang, one of the most popular karaoke bars here include Karaoke Manekineko which is one of Japan's largest karaoke chains (it is open until 3am every day of the week).

Another popular bar is Royal Superstar Bukit Bintang - look out for the huge dancing mannequins outside (it is open until 6am every morning).

Got the midnight munchies or fancy a late cheap eat?

With all the international cuisine available in and around Kuala Lumpur at night (especially Bukit Bintang), it comes as no surprise that perhaps the biggest food queues you'll see at night in the area are for the Middle Eastern kebab stalls.

There are literally dozens of kebab shops in and around Bukit Bintang which are generally open from 10am in the morning until the wee small hours.

Falafel / vegan options are also available and most kebabs cost between 15 to 20 MYR depending on size and whether you have mixed meats.
Get your discounted Aquaria KLCC ticket with Klook >
Head to Bukit Bintang crossing for the best selection of Middle Eastern shawarma and kebabs - you can literally see about eight restaurants with their kebab skewers outside, so much choice!

Yes, you read that right - Friend Fries; like French fries but you share them with your friends.

Whilst this isn't typical Malaysian food, Friend Fries is a fast food shack where they triple fry potato fries and often has queues around the block (apparently it is popular on social media - but many say the fries are overrated).

Open 20 hours a day (8am to 4am - now that is a lot of potatoes!), a small portion of Friend Fries is 7 MYR with the largest portion 11 MYR - you also get to choose from a heckuva lot of sauces.

A rather good roti recommendation, Restoran Mon Chinese Beef Roti is a newly opened open-air roti restaurant and kiosk by Jalan Alor night market.

This Chinese style beef roti was one of the best and most flavourful rotis we've tried in KL. Beef rotis at Restoran Mon Chinese beef roti are just 6 MYR, whilst chicken rotis are 5 MYR.

January 2024 update - Restoran Mon Chinese roti stall has apparently gone viral on social media (in a good way) so expect long queues to get your roti (but it is so worth it!).

Located in the basement of the eponymous shopping mall, Lot 10 Hutong Food Court is a themed street food market that is all about Malaysian Chinese heritage dishes.

Many famous food stalls and hawker stalls from all over Malaysia from Penang to Ipoh have been recreated here.

Try this - The 10 Tastings of Kuala Lumpur With Locals: Private Street Food Tour >

Many rate it as one of the best food courts in Kuala Lumpur but it is a little more on the expensive side (and quite dark inside) and aimed at tourists.
Read more in our Malaysia 7-Eleven Stores guide >
Dishes include hakka noodles, hon kee porridge and roast duck. Lot 10 Hutong Food Court is open Monday to Sunday: 10am to 10pm.

Chinatown's cool art complex is a must visit and a nice mix of the old and new. REXKL is a quirky shopping center, food court and arts workshop housed in a former 1940's cinema.

It is open until 10pm Monday to Thursday and until midnight on Friday through Sunday.

Winning several design and conservation awards, the historic REX cinema is now a thriving cultural hub full of bars, vintage stores and pop up art exhibitions.

A perfect example of how a historic building can be retained yet reinvented, popular food joints in the ground floor basement include Phil's Pizza and Ticklish Ribs.

An awesome aquarium located underneath KLCC Suria that is open until 8pm at night, the Aquaria KLCC is a sea life centre with thousands of species of fish and underwater sea creatures (but alas no mermaids).

As well as the epic 100-metre glass walkway, there are several themed zones to explore like Jewels of the Jungle, the Touch Zone and the Evolution Zone.

Head to the Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (concert hall) at night to listen to orchestras, big bands and touring musicians.

Malaysia's biggest classical music concert hall, Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS is located within the KLCC Suria complex and opened in 1998 with almost 1,000 seats.

International artists that have played here include Harry Connick Jr and Diane Krall - check out the current events and listings for the concert hall here >

Chinatown's most colourful area at night with vivid street art and brightly painted walls, Kwai Chai Hong's alcove of street art is open until midnight.

One of Kwai Chai Hong's side alleys has an array of murals and historic objects like one of KL's oldest lamp-posts or a table made of plastic plates.

Tucked away inside is a couple of hipster bars too (complete with lanterns at night) so you could combine murals with mojitos. Cheers!

Housed in the REXKL building, the Chinatown branch of Book Xcess must be the most beautiful bookshop in Malaysia (and is open until 10pm at night).

Located on the top-floor, the colourful bookshelves sit amongst the old cinema walls and screen (alas the cinema no longer functions so no late screenings here!)

Browse the shelves or buy a book, this is a nice, relaxed thing to do whilst visiting Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur at night.

One of Malaysia's biggest convenience store chains, there are now around 2,500 7-Eleven stores in Malaysia including several in Bukit Bintang (most of which are open 24 hours).

So if you are in need of late night snacks or toiletries after the malls are closed (generally at 10pm), head to the orange and green shops! In the more popular areas of KL at night, the 7-Eleven and KK-Mart stores are open 24/7.

KL's Bukit Bintang, KLCC or the Golden Triangle area is a great place to base yourself whilst staying in Kuala Lumpur, particularly if you want to do some shopping, bar-hop or get a massage after a 'hard' day of sightseeing.

These hotels in Kuala Lumpur are all within a few minutes walking distance of good night-life options and plenty of restaurants and evening activities:

Mingle Hostel KL ($)
Chinatown hostel located in a renovated 1920s clubhouse with up-cycled furniture, free breakfast, rooftop bar and on-site café. Check rates and availability for Chinatown Hostel by Mingle >

Sleeping Lion Suites ($$)
Our new favourite hotel in Kuala Lumpur! We've stayed at the Sleeping Lion Suites on several occasions as not only is it a brand new hotel (opened 2023), it also has the most epic rooftop pool in KL! Check rates and availability for Sleeping Lion Suites >

citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang ($$)
citizenM Kuala Lumpur is a technologically advanced hotel with room functions controlled by a tablet. A 4* KL hotel in the heart of the action, rooms are cosy and compact with beautiful communal areas. Check rates and availability for citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang >

Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur ($$$)
Treat yo self - this epic 5* KL hotel is just a 15 minute walk from the centre of Bukit Bintang. Close to KL's best shopping mall, the Pavilion, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur is a luxury hotel with an incredible pool. Chec k rates and availability for Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur >

Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur ($$$)
Luxury hotel with amazing views of the Petronas Towers. Facilities include a rooftop pool with a poolside bar, spa, fitness center, two restaurants and a free shuttle buggy to Suria KLCC mall. Check rates and availability for Traders Hotel >

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Kuala Lumpur at Night - 36 Things To Do 2024 - CK Travels

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Guide to all the best things to do at night in Kuala Lumpur including concerts, street food markets and late night shopping

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Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown is a kaleidoscope of colour, full of rich history and heritage - a marvellous mix of the old and new, Malaysia's largest Chinatown is one of Kuala Lumpur's best places for shopping, street food and street art.

From Petaling Street market stalls to the magical murals of Kwai Chai Hong, there is lots to do in KL's Chinatown with something to suit all budgets and tastes (literally).

New Kuala Lumpur Chinatown highlights include REXKL, an old 1940's cinema transformed into a arts hub; Merdeka 118, Malaysia's tallest building plus the 'River of Life', a 'mist' see free attraction that bellows out over the Klang river and lights up at night.

From tranquil temples to massive markets, here is our guide to Kuala Lumpur Chinatown's best things to do in 2024:

The best way to get to KL's Chinatown if you are travelling by public transport is to take the LRT (train), metro or public bus.

The nearest underground MRT station to Chinatown is Pasar Seni MRT, around a 2 minute walk from Petaling Street.

The LRT (the Kuala Lumpur Light Rapid Transit) goes from KL Sentral station to Pasar Seni LRT (it shares the same station as the Metro).

Alternatively buses 103, 104, 152, 190 and 780 alight in or around Chinatown.

The Go City KL bus purple route (route 2) also connects Chinatown with busy areas like KLCC and Bukit Bintang - whilst it used to be free to all, foreigners will now be charged a 1 MYR from 1 January 2024.
You might like our KL transport guides:
Budget ($)

Chinatown Hostel by Mingle
Budget accommodation housed in a colonial building in the heart of Kuala Lumpur Chinatown. Private or dormitory-style rooms available. Check rates and availability for Chinatown Hostel by Mingle >

Mid Range ($$)

Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur
Highly rated 4 star hotel with restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and bar. Check rates and availability for Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur>

Luxury ($$$)

Else Kuala Lumpur
Stylish and contemporary 5 star boutique hotel with outdoor infinity swimming pool, fitness centre, lounge and restaurant. Check rates and availability for Else Kuala Lumpur >

You might like - 60 things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia >

Built in the 1880s and with a rather grand art deco entrance painted in baby blue and white, Central Market in Chinatown has seen it all over the years.

Likely the most visited attraction and popular thing to do in Chinatown, Central Market started life as a wet market but now has over 100 arts and crafts and souvenir stalls.

Spread over two levels, Central Market is a nice way to browse lots of shops and is enclosed so it is a good place to shop in KL when it's raining.

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There is also an eclectic events schedule including live music, pop-up shops and cultural shows.

Try this - the Top 10 KL tours and excursions with Viator >
Chinatown's cool art complex is a must visit and a marvellous mix of the old and new - REXKL is a quirky shopping center, food court and arts workshop housed in a former 1940's cinema.

Winning several design and conservation awards, the historic REX cinema is now a thriving cultural hub full of bars, vintage stores and pop up art exhibitions (with the beautiful Book Xcess store on the top floor - more on this later).

A perfect example of how a historic building can be retained yet reinvented, popular food joints in the ground floor basement include Phil's Pizza, Ticklish Ribs and a really cool grocery store called Kedai Runcut (who needs 7-Eleven?).

You might like - Guide to Jalan Alor, KL's best known night market >

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One of the busiest shopping districts in Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown's Petaling Street is a bustling hive of food stalls, market stalls and restaurants.

Whilst it is still OK to visit in the daytime, the best time to visit Petaling Street is early evening or at night when it really comes alive.

Petaling Street is fantastic for shopping, including lots of 'counterfeit' goods at low prices - stall holders are generally assertive (but not aggressive) and will invite you to browse their stalls.

It is marked by two huge Chinese entrance gates at either end of the street and we'd estimate there are over 250 stalls, shops and restaurants along this one stretch.

If you don't like crowds, best to avoid at night as some of the stalls can be very close together.

Chinatown's most colourful area with vivid street art and brightly painted walls, Kwai Chai Hong street art avenue is KL at its best.

Once a dreary side-street and cut-through from Chinatown, Kwai Chai Hong has been transformed into a multicoloured mecca with lots of incredible photo opportunities. It is also a very popular place for newly wedded couples to have photographs taken.
Check out the River of Life here, KL's 'mist 'see attraction >

One of Kwai Chai Hong's side alleys has an array of murals and historic objects like one of KL's oldest lamp-posts or a table made of plastic plates - tucked away inside is a couple of hipster bars too so you could combine marvellous murals with mojitos. Cheers!

Located on Kwai Chai Hong, you may well get a sense of deja vu when you visit Bunn Choon even if you haven't been before.

Given its bright yellow exterior and red lanterns outside, Bunn Choon often features on Instagram; indeed walking on Bunn Choon, you face a gamut of selfie takers and professional photographers.

Still, who cares when the Bunn Choon restaurant serves up such delicious cantonese cuisine and specialises in egg-cellent egg tarts. Many people even say Bunn Choon is the best egg tart in Kuala Lumpur (no yolk - sorry not sorry).

Bunn Choon is open for egg tarts and more Tuesdays to Sundays from 7:30am

Try this - KL street food tour with Get Your Guide >
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One of Kuala Lumpur's most popular attractions, the ' River of Life ' is free to visit and located very close to Merdeka Square and Kuala Lumpur Chinatown.

An attempt to regenerate the area with colourful street art and light shows, the River of Life is both a street-art hotspot in Kuala Lumpur plus a waterfront attraction.

Look for the mist emanating from the water or incredible illustrations on the surrounding building walls (it looks particularly epic at night).

In 2023, a new observation deck ('anjung tinjau' in Malay) opened directly overlooking the river and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building so this is the best way to view the new KL River of Life street art.

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Masjid Sultan Abdul Samad mosque dates back to the 1900s and is one of the first mosques in Kuala Lumpur.

It was once the most popular mosque in KL for worship until the National Mosque opened in 1965 (which is also free to visit).

Located on the confluence where the Klang and Gombak rivers meet, the mosque is easily combined with the River of Life and you can often hear the call to prayer.
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The mosque has an iconic shape with three shiny domes and a several brick tower minarets meaning you can see it from all over Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown.

Tourists and non-worshippers are allowed to visit the Masjid James Sultan mosque; gowns are available to borrow and shoes must be taken off.

Located in the REXKL building, the Chinatown Branch must be the most beautiful bookshop in Malaysia.

Located on the top-floor, the colourful bookshelves sit amongst the old cinema walls and screen.

Try this - KL Hop-on Hop-off Bus Pass Day Sightseeing/Night Tour >
This Chinatown bookshop is always busy but mainly with people taking pictures or even impromptu photo shoots - so if you do visit, please do try and buy something (English language books are available too).

This isn't the only quirky Book Xcess branch in Malaysia - If you are visiting Ipoh, make sure to check the Book Xcess store that is located in an old bank vault where the books are displayed in old safety deposit boxes.

You might like - Things to do in Ipoh Malaysia (including Book Xcess in a bank vault) >

Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown is often very busy and hectic so we appreciate the respite and peaceful grounds of the small Taoist Guan Di Temple.

The temple was built in the 1880s and the smell of burning joss sticks and spiral incense lures you in (it looks very pretty too).

One of the finest Chinese temples in KL's Chinatown, there are several stalls inside and a sea of red lanterns when we visited.

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Whilst not an epic temple, Guan D i is serene and worth a quick trip - shoes do not need to be taken off.

One of Chinatown's hidden gems, this secret street art spot depicts the history of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown with some impressive illustrations.

To find this lovely lane of street art, head towards Bubble Bee Cafe on Jalan Petaling - the street art lane can be found on the right hand side of Pik Wah Bar and Cafe on an alley called Lrg Petaling 2 on Google maps.

A tale of two cities, it is also ironic how this side-street depicting so much of Kuala Lumpur's and Chinatown's history is also one of the best viewpoints to see the new Merdeka 118 tower juxtaposed against the old town skyline.

Try this - The 10 Tastings of Kuala Lumpur With Locals: Private Street Food Tour >

Easily seen from all over Chinatown, Merdeka 118 is set to be the largest skyscraper in Malaysia and the second tallest building in the world (thanks to a weird extra bit they've added to the top).

Merdeka 118 is still under construction at the time of writing (January 2024) but it is set to be one of biggest shopping destinations and malls in Kuala Lumpur, plus will have an epic observation deck and viewing platform.

Merdeka Square is a famous Kuala Lumpur landmark where Malaysia's independence was announced in the 1950s (meaning it is also known as Independence Square).

The Malaysian flag was raised here for the very first time in 1957 to signify the end of British rule (and replace the Union Jack flag that had previously flown there).

Try this - Kuala Lumpur Heritage 4-Hour Walking Tour >

Full of colonial charm including black and white tudor style buildings plus a cricket green, it also has a huge flagpole (check out how big the Malaysia national flag is here!).
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Merdeka Square is often used as an events space and meeting place, such as the main venue for the annual KL running marathon.

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As Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur is well known for its street food (and not just on Petaling Street), there are several hawker centres in and around the area to enjoy local food - you won't go hungry in Chinatown!

Popular hawker centre dishes in Chinatown sell dishes such as curry laksa, curried brinjal (aubergine), Hokkien noodles, chee chong fun, claypot chicken rice and char kway teow noodles.

Hawker centers are dotted all around Chinatown and some of the more popular ones are Tang City or international food courts like the one on the ground floor of REXKL.

Just outside of Central Market, Kuala Lumpur Chinatown's Kasturi Walk is a covered outdoor shopping area with numerous souvenir kiosks and food stalls.

It is a nice way to browse gifts and trinkets in the open air (and also a nice escape from Central Market if it becomes too busy).

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Kasturi Walk is a great place for fresh fruits - one of the most popular stalls is a fresh fruit and fruit stall; their coconut shake is very refreshing and good value compared to nearby bars and restaurants.

We've been to Kasturi Walk several times over the last few years and on our latest trip in December 2023, it seems to be a little depleted with fewer stalls than before - hopefully things will pick up again.

Try this - The Best of Kuala Lumpur at Night Tour >

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Kuala Lumpur Chinatown's most famous and colourful temple, Sri Mahamariamman Temple was built in the 19th century and is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur.

The highlight is the incredible 'Raja Gopuram' roof covered with incredible carvings of Hindu Gods and which can be seen from all over Chinatown with a facade of carved Hindu gods.

TheSri Mahamariamman Temple on the edge of Chinatown Kuala Lumpur is free to visit.

If you wish to enter the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, please remember to dress modestly and take off your shoes at the entrance.

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The oldest Taoist temple in Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown's Sin Sze Si Ya is a short walk from Central Market and is over 140 years old.

The temple was built in honour of local deities Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya and is a peaceful place for local worshippers.

A nice place to escape Kuala Lumpur Chinatown's heat and enjoy cool bubble tea or ice-cream waffles, the Bubble Bee is highly recommended and easy to spot - just look for the incredible street art above the main entrance, depicting a young girl looking out over Chinatown.

Open all day for coffee, brunch, wrap, salads and more, Bubble Bee Cafe also features on several Kuala Lumpur Chinatown food tours.

One of the best ways to get around Kuala Lumpur and to or from Chinatown is to jump aboard the Go KL City Bus.

There are dozens of stops all over the city including Chinatown on the purple line (known as GO KL 02 route from 1 January 2024).

The GOKL city bus service now offers several bus routes that connect the busy areas of Chinatown, KLCC, Bukit Bintang and more.

The GO KL bus used to be free to tourists but now charges a 1 MYR fare to foreigners (which is still very cheap) as of 1 January 2024.

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On the upper floor of Central Market, you'll find a busy food court and hawker centre that many of the locals eat at (as the air conditioning is pretty good).

Comprising around 20 or so stalls, this is one of the cleanest food courts we found in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur with loads of choice and excellent prices.

Cold drinks and fresh fruit juices are also available and some of the tables look out over the shops below.

Yes, it might be a bit of a tourist cliche, but there is a huge (and fun) 'I heart KL' sign next to the KL City Gallery - one of KL's most popular photo spots, expect to queue to pose with the sign during busy periods.

If silly signs aren't your thing, check out the free displays in Kuala Lumpur City Gallery including a miniature version of KL's city and iconic landmarks.

You can also enjoy sweet treats at the award winning ARCH Cafe (their stained glass windows and KL lightbulb sign on the ceiling are superb too).

As you walk along the River of Life on the left hand river bank by the observation deck and Makan Buzz, the last building you'll pass before hitting Merdeka Square is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

This is a former Government building built in the 1890s, once home to the British colonial administration.

Look up at the majestic clock-tower at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building - the 40 metre clock tower rang out for the first ever time to mark Queen Victoria's Jubilee Parade 1897 and continues to regularly chime to this day.

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Chinatown Kuala Lumpur - 21 Top Things To Do 2024 - CK Travels

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Guide to Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - a neighborhood full of history and heritage, with amazing markets, street food & street art