Guide to Exploring Kuala Lumpur on a Budget

Oh, Kuala Lumpur! A city that can overwhelm the senses. As one of the fastest growing cities in South East Asia, Kuala Lumpur is loud, in your face, bustling with traffic. And full of colours and smells… It’s a lot to take in. But if you take the time to slow down and focus on the details, you’ll be able to enjoy everything it has to offer.

What to See

Batu Caves – The Batu Caves are located in the outskirts of town. Just a short train ride from KL Sentral. Inside the limestone caves you’ll find various shrines dedicated to the Hindu god Murugan.

The climb up to the entrance is steep; you’ll have to climb 272 steps. But there will be plenty of macaques to keep you distracted along the way. Just don’t get too close to them because they are not afraid of people. Once you have finished visiting this site, you can enjoy a nice vegetarian meal in the restaurants. Located just across from the temple.

Petronas Towers – Whether you visit them by day or by night, there is no denying it, the Petronas Towers are truly impressive. I would suggest you make time to visit the towers twice. By day and by night. So that you can see its two distinct sides.

When you visit in the evenings, you’ll be able to enjoy a colourful water show with streams of colour shooting out of the fountain. The show draws both locals and visitors, and takes place nightly.

More Attractions in Kuala Lumpur

Merdeka – Merdeka Square is an important site in Kuala Lumpur as it is where the Malaysian flag was raised for the first time.

This open green space was once a cricket field, but today it is a gathering place for visitors and locals. It’s a place where national celebrations are held, and you’ll also notice that on certain evenings sports are shown on the jumbo TV screens by the field.

KL Bird Park – Peacocks, parrots, lovebirds, storks, and emus! There are over 3,000 birds in this bird park, in more than 200 different species!

The idea behind the KL Bird Park is that it is a free-flight aviary; this means that the birds can fly freely in an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat.

With an admissions price of  48 Ringgits ($15 USD), this was our little splurge while in the city.

Where to Eat

Restoran Anuja – Located just across from Puduraya Bus Terminal (you just need to cross the street via the overhead walking ramp) is a little Indian restaurant that serves up some of the best roti I have ever tasted.

Restoran Anuja is always busy regardless of the time of day. The roti cheese is prepared to perfection, and they also make delicious fruit smoothies, lassis, and sweet chai.

Chinatown – Hands down the best place to find food! Whether you’re looking to eat in a real restaurant, al fresco, or just grab a quick snack to go, this is the right place to come. I recommend the Hokkien noodles!

Where to Sleep

Backpackers Travellers Inn – We chose this hostel for various reason. First, it is located within walking distance of Puduraya Bus Terminal, which meant we didn’t have to navigate the city with heavy backpacks in tow. Also, because it is located in the heart of Chinatown, the rates were relatively lower compared to other parts of the city. And lastly, Backpackers Travellers Inn offers an array of accommodations ranging from dorms to private rooms. They also have a nice little patio on the rooftop, where you can enjoy some delicious banana and chocolate pancakes. (Breakfast is extra.)

Have you been to Kuala Lumpur? Do you have any recommendations?