Top 10 Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's capital is famous for its architectural landmarks, culinary delights, and cultural diversity. While planning for your ICANN75 trip, you may want to schedule some time to explore the many attractions Kuala Lumpur has to offer. Here's our list of 10 things you may want to consider when in Kuala Lumpur.

1. Try Nasi Lemak and Durian

   Taste nasi lemak, Malaysia's national dish, and durian, the country's best-known fruit. At its most basic, nasi lemak consists of rice cooked in coconut milk with an added pandan leaf, but it comes in different tasty variations and with pairings. Durian, the King of Fruits in South East Asia, is not only known for its unique taste, but also for its pungent smell that led to its ban on public transport in some Asian countries.

2. Rise above it all on the Petronas Towers

   You have probably heard of or seen a picture of Kuala Lumpur's Petronas Towers, the world's tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004. The skyscrapers are a national landmark and the city's most iconic building. With a height of 452 meters, the Petronas Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world. Within walking distance from the ICANN75 venue, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), provides stunning views of Malaysia's capital and is open daily except Mondays. While you're there, check out the rooftop bar Marini's on 57. Sip on a refreshing drink and savor the spectacular night views of Kuala Lumpur.

3. Stroll through Kuala Lumpur's night food markets

   Kuala Lumpur's night food markets offer a sensory experience for everyone. If you are ready to dive right in, visit Jalan Alor, home to Kuala Lumpur's busiest and best-known night food spot. Choose among a plethora of eating options, from sit-down restaurants to food stalls, with plenty of people watching opportunities sprinkled in for free. If Jalan Alor's hubbub is a bit too much, visit Lot 10 Hutong. It offers a curated selection of food from noted local street vendors in the calmer comfort of an indoor food court.

4. Scratch your shopping itch at Suria KLCC, Bukit Bintang or Central Market

   Whatever you are looking for, you can probably find it at Suria KLCC, arguably Kuala Lumpur's leading shopping mall. With its convenient location inside the Petronas Towers, you can first fulfill your shopping needs before getting a birds-eye view of Kuala Lumpur. Added bonus: Suria KLCC is just a short walk from the ICANN75 venue. If one shopping mall is not enough, don't worry, Kuala Lumpur has you covered. Head over to Bukit Bintang area, Kuala Lumpur's famous shopping district, or the popular Central Market for even more stores and shops for every budget and taste.

5. Snap a picture of Saloma Link

   Completed in 2020, Saloma Link is a spectacularly designed pedestrian and bicycle bridge spanning the Klang River. The bridge is shaped like an ornamental leaf that is often presented in Malay wedding ceremonies as a symbol of unity. The 69-meter long overpass, especially when illuminated at night, has quickly become a Kuala Lumpur Instagram favorite. It is only a short stroll away from KLCC, so why not grab your phone or camera and take a snapshot?

6. Beat the heat at Aquaria KLCC

   Cool off after a full day of discussions at ICANN75 in this state-of-the-art aquarium located beneath the KLCC. Enjoy Aquaria KLCC's stunning 90-meter transparent tunnel walkway, explore the Living Ocean exhibit and come face to face with more than seven different species of sharks.

7. Get away from it all at Butterfly Park and Botanical Gardens

   Need some fresh air after the day's meeting? Then check out the nearby Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park and the Perdana Botanical Garden. The proximity to the KLCC makes these parks attractive destinations to relax and recharge. Enjoy some fresh air as you saunter through the parks, be amazed by the vivid colors of butterflies as they flutter between flowers, vines, and ferns, or just stroll through Kuala Lumpur's first large-scale recreational park.

8. Take in some culture at the National Mosque and the National Museum

   Culture buffs can learn all about the rich history and cultural heritage of Malaysia at the country's National Museum. The museum, built in the style of traditional Malay architecture, opened in 1963. It is well worth a visit, as is the National Mosque of Malaysia. The combination of modern and Islamic design has made Malaysia's largest mosque a top tourist destination. From the National Mosque, it's only a brief walk to the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, which is Southeast Asia's largest museum of Islamic Art, housing more than 10,000 artifacts.

9. Sharpen your photography skills at Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Dataran Merdeka

   These two buildings make for great pictures, but also highlight Malaysian history. On Dataran Merdeka or Independence Square, the country celebrates its independence from Britain with a yearly Independence Day Parade to commemorate midnight 31 August 1957 when the Malaysian flag was first raised here. Another historical landmark is Sultan Abdul Samad Building, previously home to the British colonial administration. Completed in 1897, the edifice was renamed in 1974 after Sultan Abdul Samad, the then sultan of the surrounding district of Selangor.

10. Explore Batu Caves

    Located just outside Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are an important Hindu religious site and one of Malaysia's major tourist destinations. Formed out of limestone some 400 million years ago, the shrine is dedicated to the Hindu god of war, Lord Murugan. His giant statue greets visitors at the entrance of the caves next to 272 different-colored concrete steps, also known as the rainbow steps. Exploring the caves and its natural surroundings makes for a nice outing from the bustling city and is just a 40-minute train ride away from Kuala Lumpur.