Featured image: Beautiful architecture around Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Photo by Malaysia Tourism

Why Kuala Lumpur is a must stop destination for women

by Karen Gershowitz

Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, where you will find ancient rainforests, gorgeous beaches, urban sophistication, a wide variety of food choices, history and friendly people. Kuala Lumpur (KL), the capital city, epitomizes this blend. It’s a city where historic and modern sites and traditions coexist seamlessly. Skyscrapers tower above ancient temples and bustling markets and streets about parks and gardens. And everywhere, there is a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Kuala Lumpur has something for you.

Must-see highlights in Kuala Lumpur

The iconic Petronas Twin Towers dominate the city’s skyline and are a great place to begin. They are the world’s tallest twin structures, with an observation deck on the 86th floor. The Skybridge (on the 41st and 42nd floors) offers a breathtaking view of the city below.

For an even better view, go to the observation deck at the Kuala Lumpur Tower, (a telecommunication tower). Another option is the Saloma Link Bridge, a single-span steel structure bridge that is illuminated with 4,100 diamond façade panels that serve as a magnificent lookout. It is best visited at night for its almost kaleidoscopic illumination. (Get tickets here).

In contrast, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a historical landmark constructed in the late 19th century. It showcases a unique blend of Moorish and Victorian styles, characterized by elegant arches, curved colonnades, and a striking copper-domed clock tower. Lit up at night, it is magical.

Those are just two of the many architectural highlights in the city. Another must-visit destination, especially for shoppers, is the Central Market. The Art Deco building is a Malaysian heritage site. Because KL is home to many ethnic groups and cultures, the market offers a wide variety of handicrafts and foods. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and get a sense of the city’s diversity.

Shoppers who don’t find what they want at the Central Market (even though the choices are enormous) can visit more modern (and expensive) malls and boutiques or go to the lively markets of Chinatown and Little India. I loved spending time in those markets and interacting with shopkeepers. I’m also a fan of night markets, which are found in several areas in Kuala Lumpur. Petaling Street in Chinatown and the Kampung Baru Night Market are best known, but there are others, including The Exchange Trx, which some call the new social heart of Kuala Lumpur. Check to see what days and nights they come alive.

Nature and gardens in Kuala Lumpur

When you’ve had enough of architecture and shopping, head out to the Batu Caves. A short train ride away, it’s a Hindu temple set within a massive limestone cave. Vibrant colors adorn the steps leading to the caves. I was glad I visited the caves years ago. I’m not sure that I could now climb the 272 steep stairs that lead into them. Even without climbing the stairs, it’s worth a visit.

If, like me, you need to get some green in the middle of a city, there are several options. Visit the Perdana Botanical Garden, making sure to see the orchid garden, butterfly park and bird park, a renowned eco-tourism site housing thousands of birds from around the world. You can also spend time at the KL Forest Eco Park. It’s a lush forest reserve in the heart of the city. If you’re braver than I am (and not afraid of heights) you can go on the Canopy Walk, which offers stunning views of the park’s oldest trees. I prefer the ground-level trails.

Culinary explorations for all tastes

Then there is the food, an integral part of any travel. Kuala Lumpur’s food choices reflect its multicultural population. The city’s culinary offerings, from street stalls to upscale restaurants, serve cuisines that represent a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian food. Jalan Alor during the day appears to be an ordinary street. At night, it comes alive with food stalls. For cheap, delicious food and a sense of the city’s culture, it’s a great place to spend an evening.

Click here to find a delicious food tour or culinary experience in Kuala Lumpur!

When I visited, I took a food tour that introduced me to many foods that I was unfamiliar with. After the tour, I went looking for those dishes at other restaurants. When I go back, which I definitely will, I’ll look for a cooking class to teach me how to make some of those wonderful meals. One recommended option is a market tour at LaZat Cooking School.

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant destination that offers experiences as diverse as its population. From the breathtaking views to the street food markets, each corner of the city offers something new and exciting.  

How to get there

There are no direct flights to Malaysia from Canada, but there are various airlines that will get you to Malaysia via major hubs in Asia. These include: Air Canada, which has a direct flight to Singapore starting in April 2024; China Airlines; Eva Air; Cathay Pacific; Emirates; Japan Airlines; Korean Airlines; Turkish Air; and Qatar.

Click here to check flight prices on Skyscanner.

Join a small group tour to Malaysia

Several tour operators from our Women’s Travel Directory offer trips to Malaysia. G Adventures has several itineraries with stops in Malaysia. Trafalgar Tours offers an exciting 12-day tour of Malaysia and Singapore, and many others. Intrepid Travel offers several itineraries to Malaysia, including The Wild Sarawak and The Real Borneo. 

 To learn more about Malaysia, please visit their website here.

More to Discover Around Southeast Asia