Why stay in Kuala Lumpur?
photo: papaija2008
Kuala Lumpur, often affectionately known simply as "KL", is Malaysia's bustling capital city. It's a new city by Malaysian standards, and even newer to the tourist trail. It is increasingly a popular tourist destination, however, so the secret's out.
Kuala Lumpur's list of must-see sights is shorter than other cities of similar size - but the city itself is a sight so that often makes up for its lack of museums. Among the things you'll want to visit are the Petronas Twin Towers (once the world's tallest buildings), including the skybridge around the 41st floor - not for anyone with a fear of heights. The Aquaria KLCC is relatively new, and includes an underwater tunnel. Merdeka Square is in the center of many of the historic sights in KL and the world's tallest flagpole is in the square as well. You can visit the ornate Sri Mahamariamman Temple at any time of the year, but it is most busy when it serves as the starting point for the annual Thaipusam pilgrimage to the nearby Batu Caves (13 km outside the city), where Hindu pilgrims carry portable shrines which have been pierced to their bodies. Not for the faint of heart. Slightly less painful activities in Kuala Lumpur include a visit to Cosmo's World (Malaysia's largest indoor theme park), rock climbing around the Batu Caves and a grand selection of spas in the city center.
Sleeping cheap is easy in KL, where even the fancier hotels are significantly less expensive than their counterparts elsewhere. Hostels in the city center tend to cost a little more than the seriously budget hostels in Chinatown, but they're also less likely to be dodgy. Keep in mind that "hostels" are no longer only for young backpackers (even if it has "backpackers" in the name!) - they're ideal for any budget-minded traveler who's interested in meeting other travelers. A few Kuala Lumpur hostels worth mentioning are highlighted here.
Red Palm prides itself on its real backpacker ambiance, and is in the city center near the main shopping and entertainment. Equator Hostelis near Chinatown and Jalan Bukit Bintang, and is also oriented toward those wanting the backpacker experience.
Rainforest Bed & Breakfast is in the city center in a building that looks like a forest. Hostel Cosmopolitan @ Chow Kit is in the Chow Kit/Kampung Bharu area near lots of great food choices. It's close to a KL Monorail stop.
Don't worry if none of these hostels sounds like it's perfect. There are other Kuala Lumpur hostels listed here which you can choose from. Keep reading the descriptions until you find the right one.
What else do you need for your trip? Whatever it is, you'll find it here! You can look for international airfare to Kuala Lumpur and book it today. You can also read more about what to do and see in the city in our Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide.
More Cities in Malaysia
