24 hours in Kuala Lumpur
How to make the best of Malaysia’s capital city
Have you ever missed your direct flight or a connecting flight from the airport of Kuala Lumpur and were informed of that your next flight is for the next day? Uncertain about what to do with your time? Relax, we have got you covered!
Making the Most of an Unexpected Layover: A Day in Kuala Lumpur
Unfortunately, due to technical issues with the flight in India, I was unable to make my connecting Batik Air trip from Kuala Lumpur. We had to board the trip the following day because there were no other flights that could bring me to my destination in a timely manner. Fortunately, the airline compensated us with a stay at the Movenpick hotel in Kuala Lumpur, which is located closer to the airport. Here’s how we made the most of our time in Kuala Lumpur after checking in with the other travellers and eating brunch.Renowned for the Petronas Twin Tower among other things, this vibrant capital city is also known for its skyscrapers, unusual views, and cultural diversity. Here’s a list of some must-visit locations to learn more about the nation’s history and growth.
Following your drop-off at your assigned airline hotel, you have the option of relaxing or exploring the city. While hiring a car and a guide is advised at the start of your trip, you are also welcome to reserve a taxi and continue on your own without a guide.
Taste the different flavors of Truffle chocolate at Belice Chocolate Kingdom
We started our trip with a 40 mins ride into the centre of the city to reach Belice Chocolate Kingdom which, located in Jalan Ultara, it is the perfect place for chocolate lovers and history enthusiasts to come together and enjoy the unique blend between culture, confectionary and historical insights. Upon entering you will be given variety of chocolates to taste, after which is a section of packed chocolates that you can buy before you proceed to the exit. It is a short but still a fun tasting experience. Honestly the chocolates just tasted so good, I regret not purchasing a box!!National Monument of Malaysia : Tugu Negara – War Memorial
10 mins from Belice Chocolate Kingdom is Tugu Negara one of the national monument of the capital that aims to honour those who died in Malaysia’s struggle for freedom, principally agaisnt the Japanese occupation during war and the Malayan Emergency. This is a space open to the public during working hours, you can spend as much time you want to take in this magnificent view and take pictures.
Originally built by the colonial British administration to honor those from the British colonies who were martyred in the Great War (1914–1918), the Kuala Lumpur Cenotaph stands directly in front of the Tugu Negara monument. Later, after British rule was restored, it was expanded to include the fallen British Malaysian soldiers of World War II (1939–1945).
Istana Negara – The King’s Palace
Your next stop will be the Istana Negara also known as the King’s Palace, which is located 10 mins away from the national monument. It is the official residence of the current King of Malaysia — Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The Kings soldiers are always at guard when the field outside of the gate is open to the public to take pictures. The palace was crowded, but it was such a sight to see! The king really does have a good residence I must say.
Going deep into the Chinese religion – Thean Hou Temple
The Thean Hou Temple is a six-tiered temple of the Chinese sea goddess Mazu located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The exterior of the main temple is lined with numerous fortune-telling approaches. My method of “picking a stick” from a bowl and taking out a paper with the matching number did not disappoint. Inside the temple are beautiful sculputres of the chinese dieties. We also get to burn the incenses for praying. Don’t forget to make a wish. It is customary to enter the temple without shoes, taking photos is allowed. Upon exiting the temple, you reach an area of stalls where you can buy food and plenty of souveniers for your trip!
The famous attraction of the day – Petronas Twin Towers!
The second tallest building in the world. It features a double decker skybridge connecting the two towers on the 41st and 42nd floors. It is usually a very crowdy place due to its popularity, but you might find a perfect spot for your family picture or solo picture for your Instagram. The downtown during the day and night is a pretty happening place and the surroundings are very aesthetic. If you haven’t been here…You honestly haven’t seen Kuala Lumpur at all.
Let’s revisit the beauty of Hindu Temples – Batu Caves
The last stop on our trip would be the Batu caves. It is a mogote of one of the limestone caves present in Malaysia. This cave consists of many Hindu temples, the popular of which is a shrine dedicated to Hindu god Murugan. It is the focal point of the Tamil festival of Thaipusam in Malaysia. The colourful stairs behind the statue of Murugan, takes us into another cave which has smaller temples of Hindu Gods, and further into is the magnificent pond we can see right here. Beware of monkeys as they can snatch your food and belongings, it is recommended to not feed a monkey if you don’t want it to follow you. Walking alongside the parking space of Batu Caves is a coconut stall, which sells a big coconut. It serves 4 people, and the taste is very refreshing.
