Things To Adore In Kuala Lumpur: Temples, Towers, Markets & Monkeys
Before we jump into the full story, if you’re someone who prefers visuals over words—this one’s for you.
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Kuala Lumpur is a city that hums with life. It’s where gleaming skyscrapers meet spiritual sanctuaries, vibrant street markets spill onto sidewalks, and ancient caves echo with the chatter of monkeys and the footsteps of pilgrims. On a shore excursion from our cruise, we dove into the heart of this eclectic city, uncovering sacred temples, local street art, iconic towers, and the wild wonders of Batu Caves—all in one packed and unforgettable day.
Thean Hou Temple
First Stop: Thean Hou Temple
Our day began at Thean Hou Temple, a six-tiered Chinese temple perched atop Robson Hill. Completed in 1987, this architectural gem is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese Goddess of the Sea, and is one of the oldest and most ornate temples in Southeast Asia. With its red pillars, intricate carvings, and rows of glowing lanterns, the temple blends modern design with traditional Chinese elements.
We wandered through its peaceful courtyards, watching as worshippers lit incense and bowed in prayer. In some sections of the temple, you must remove your shoes before entering as a sign of respect. Be sure to mark or tie your shoes together, as they’ve been known to mysteriously “walk away” if left unattended for too long!
The elevated view of the city skyline from the temple grounds was an added bonus, offering a moment of calm before we dove into the city’s hustle.
Street Murals
Murals and Murmurs in Pusat Bandaraya
Next, we made our way to Pusat Bandaraya, where Kuala Lumpur’s street art scene shines. Tucked between buildings and hidden in alleyways, the murals here are vibrant and imaginative—depicting everything from traditional Malaysian culture to whimsical modern scenes. Each wall told a story, turning the city into an open-air gallery.
It’s a place where you want your camera ready, because every corner seems made for a snapshot—and a few laughs.
Petaling Market
Market Buzz at Jalan Petaling Street
No visit to KL is complete without a stop at Jalan Petaling Street Market, located in the heart of Chinatown. With over a century of history, this market pulses with energy. The air was filled with the scent of sizzling street food and the calls of vendors selling everything from knockoff designer handbags to souvenirs and gadgets.
Haggling is part of the fun, and the market is a fantastic place to experience the multicultural vibrancy that defines Malaysia. Whether you’re after snacks, gifts, or just people-watching, it’s easy to lose track of time in this lively maze.
Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque
Quiet Reflection at Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque
After the chaos of the market, we found peace at the Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque, one of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest and most beautiful mosques. Built in 1909 at the meeting point of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, it showcases stunning Mughal architecture with its onion-shaped domes, arches, and minarets.
Though we admired it from the outside, the tranquil setting and graceful architecture left a lasting impression. It’s a quiet reminder of the city’s deep Islamic roots amid its modern growth.
The Petronas Twin Towers
Towering Icons: The Petronas Twin Towers
Our next stop was the city’s most iconic landmark—the Petronas Twin Towers. Soaring 452 meters (1,482 ft) into the sky, these twin spires were once the tallest buildings in the world and still dominate the Kuala Lumpur skyline today.
We stood in the plaza below, taking in their gleaming silver façade and snapping photos from every angle. These towers aren’t just architectural marvels—they’re symbols of Malaysia’s ambition, modernization, and global reach.
Merdeka 118
A New Giant: Merdeka 118
As we continued our city tour, we couldn’t miss the sight of Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur’s newest skyscraper and the tallest building in Malaysia. Completed in November 2023 and officially opened in January 2024, this 118-story megatall skyscraper reaches a height of 678.9 meters (2,227 feet) . Its name, "Merdeka," meaning "independence" in Malay, reflects its proximity to the historic Stadium Merdeka, where Malaysia declared independence in 1957. The building’s design, featuring a diamond-shaped façade, symbolizes unity and diversity. Inside, it houses offices, hotels, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
Batu Caves
The Grand Finale: Batu Caves (And Monkeys!)
Our final destination of the day was also the most adventurous: Batu Caves. Located just outside the city, this complex of limestone caves and cave temples is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites outside of India. It’s dedicated primarily to Lord Murugan, whose massive golden statue greets visitors at the base.
Standing at the foot of 272 steep steps in the sweltering afternoon heat, I took a deep breath and began the climb. It felt like a thousand steps, and with the 90-degree weather, I was extremely thankful for the water bottle I’d packed.
Note for women travelers: Your legs must be covered to enter the temple, but if you’re not dressed appropriately, you’re in luck—there’s a conveniently placed gift shop at the bottom of the stairs where you can purchase a wrap.
As we made our way up, we were greeted by the resident monkeys, who roam freely around the stairs and temple grounds. They may be cute, but don’t be fooled—they’re quick, clever, and not at all shy about stealing your snacks or snatching up anything loosely held. If a monkey grabs your stuff, consider it theirs now.
Once inside the caves, we discovered even more steps, leading to shrines nestled into the towering limestone walls. The cave itself is both majestic and humbling, echoing with chants, footsteps, and the natural drip of water from the cave ceiling.
During the Thaipusam Festival, Batu Caves becomes a vibrant pilgrimage site, drawing thousands of devotees carrying offerings in a powerful and colorful celebration of faith.
The Ride Back
By the time we finished exploring, I really needed a restroom—but discovered there was a small fee to use the facilities at the caves, so I opted to wait it out. Tired, sticky, and slightly dehydrated, we boarded the coach and headed back to the cruise terminal.
It had been a very busy day filled with color, history, faith, and the kind of real-world adventure that makes travel unforgettable. From temple rooftops to market stalls, from skyscrapers to sacred caves—Kuala Lumpur gave us a little bit of everything.
