The Magical Kuala Lumpur

Discover the best of Malaysia on a budget with SADAF HASSAN

One of the most buzzing capitals of Asia is Kuala Lumpur. This melting pot has influences from throughout Asia, but specifically China and India. Bursting with cultures and colours, the city has so much to offer that you could keep going back to it and still not have enough.

I recently went on a tour of Malaysia and it was only upon returning did I realise that it was probably one of the most budget-friendly holidays of mine.

Not only did I shop till I dropped and saw beautiful places, I also saved quite a lot.

Looking back at my trip, I jotted down some key points that may save you from burning a hole in your pocket if Kuala Lumpur is on your holiday travel plan in the near future.

TOURING THE CITY

Walk Tours

Kuala Lumpur is a big city and one day may not be sufficient to see it all. However, if you are short on time, you can make the most of it by joining walk tours. What is the best part of some walk tours? They are free!

Usually conducted by the Malaysian government, you can join a tour from the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery. You will discover 11 historical sites within 2 to 3 hours. The tour starts at 9 a.m. and ends around 11:30 a.m. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and keep yourself hydrated. Also, do not forget to tip the guide.

The weather is usually pleasant in Malaysia all year long, except summers which could be too warm for walk tours.

KL Hop-On Hop-Off

This tour bus service is probably the most used by tourists in Kuala Lumpur. You can buy a ticket for as low as MYR 40, which will be valid for 24 hours, or a ticket for MYR 75 for 48 hours.

They also run family discount packages and promotions, so go through their website to know more about their ongoing deals.

The bus takes you around 23 sights and attractions which cover pretty much everything within the city.

You will be given a map which shows the designated stops. The onboard commentary in English will give you insights about all the places. You can hop off at any sights you want and hop back on the bus whenever you want from the tour stops which are made prominent by their multicoloured branding and visible signage.

The only catch is that you might have to wait a little for the next bus to arrive at your stop as there is no fixed schedule. Also, I recommend starting your tour at the earliest, the buses operate from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tour Guides

I was fortunate enough to find a freelance local tour guide near the hotel I stayed at. You can ask your hotel desk for one or search for a guide online before travelling.

A little pricey than other tour options, the guides usually charge anywhere between MYR 300 to MYR 400. Whether you are a solo traveller or travelling with a family of 4 to 5 persons, the fee remains same. Bigger cars can be arranged for bigger groups at an additional cost.

You get a comfortable car to yourself and get to explore major attractions that are a little further from the main city, like the Batu Caves because a visit to Kuala Lumpur would be incomplete without visiting the Caves.

My tour began at 11 a.m. and ended around 6 p.m. and I got to explore Batu Caves, Genting Islands, Strawberry Farms, Colmar Tropicale French Theme Resort and the Japanese Village and Botanical Garden.

SHOPPING

Ah, the favourite word! Nothing made me happier than seeing the quality of the local products along with their price tags.

Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the best, local shopping experience. There are long strips of shopping centres in all major parts of the city. The local brands are inexpensive and as good as any big fast fashion retailers.

Berjaya Times Square

It seems like most of the malls in KL live by the philosophy of “go big or go home.” I recommend Berjaya Times Square because it stands 9 floors tall. The shopping centre houses local brands at large with a few international fashion and beauty brands. I found some great trendy shoes that ranged from MYR 35 to MYR 75. You will also find chic tops and dresses inspired by Korean fashion. There is also an indoor theme park which is known to attract many visitors.

Lot 10

If you are looking to splurge a little, Lot 10 sells authentic designer clothes at bargain prices, among the cheapest you are likely to find in Southeast Asia. Since I was mainly looking into local finds, I did not buy anything here; however, I did see some big brands offering up to 50% discount.

Chinatown

Chinatown is a great mish-mash of street vendors and food stalls. This is the place where you need to bring your best bargaining skills forward. Do not shy away from haggling or you will be at a loss because the prices quoted are much higher than what they are truly worth. I bought handbags and clutches initially priced at MYR 150 but bargained down to MYR 40. Likewise, you will find great watches, shoes and electronics. Even though Chinatown is a good place to buy souvenirs, price wise, I would recommend Central Market for more variety.

Central Market

A short walk from Chinatown is Central Market. This is a great place to buy mementoes to take back home. You can easily purchase several small souvenirs within MYR 100. I also had the best Malaysian sugar cane juice here which was much-needed refreshment as I shopped.

EATING OUT

Food seems to unite people in Malaysia. Thanks to the cultural mix and acceptance, it is almost impossible to not eat well, and diversely, in KL.

The food is budget friendly in general whether you prefer street side food or fine dining. You can expect anywhere between MYR 20 to MYR 200 for two persons per meal. I would say, budget wise, eating at a fine dining restaurant would be almost equivalent to many restaurants in Pakistan, except you experience unique local eats, like curry laksa, along with international cuisine.

You will find good food everywhere. For instance, there are a few restaurants at the foot of Batu Caves which offer inexpensive South Indian vegetarian food. I had a simple lunch there which included plain rice with dal, vegetarian curry, mixed vegetables and coconut chutney served on banana leaves. The serving was big enough for two people and it kept me going throughout the tour. It cost me less than MYR 20.

While you are on a tour of the main city or are out shopping, pisang goring (fried banana) is a great snack to give you an energy boost. The banana is coated in a crispy and sweet batter then fried. The banana remains soft and caramelised from the inside while crunchy from the outside. It usually costs around MYR 1.5 per piece.

Kuala Lumpur has some of the most beautiful places of worship. Masjid Jamek, one of the oldest mosques in KL, is located at a junction of two rivers. The mughal and Moorish architecture makes it a sight to behold. I would recommend visiting during a time where you see it in daylight and after dark as well because the lights make it look magical.

KLCC Park, a hidden wonderland overlooking the Petronas, is a clean and relaxing public park to cool off from the hustle and bustle. With lakes, musical dancing fountains and greenery around, this is a great place to take those Instagram photos.