Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Lights, Culture, Action: A Solo Adventure in Kuala Lumpur
February 2023 Kuala Lumpur is a city where old traditions and modern life come together, making it a place full of energy and excitement. Known as the "Garden City of Lights," it's a mix of different cultures and foods, with tall skyscrapers next to historic sites and busy street markets. The city has some of the world’s famous places, like the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and the lively Bukit Bintang shopping area. Whether you love food, shopping, or history, Kuala Lumpur has something for everyone. With friendly people, tasty food, and a fun atmosphere, it's a trip you won’t forget. So, get ready for an adventure in this exciting city!
How did I get here?
You know, some people think you need a travel buddy to explore the world, but I didn’t feel that way. I had seven days off work and really wanted to see something new, so I just decided to go for it. I packed my bags and flew to Kuala Lumpur.
Living in Perth, it was an easy choice—a short six-hour flight, and I was there. When I arrived, the city’s energy hit me right away. The airport was busy, and the streets were full of life with colourful markets and tall buildings. What’s great about Kuala Lumpur is that it’s a perfect base and gateway if you want to explore other countries too.
Honestly, if you’ve ever thought about waiting for someone to travel with—don’t. Just go for it. I went solo, and I don’t regret a second of it.
When you get there, you should really soak in the culture. There are so many nice little cafes, art galleries, and places to explore. I found that Kuala Lumpur is just right for solo travellers. So, why not give it a try?
Taken at Petronas Tower, Kuala Lumpur
As someone who has had the pleasure of exploring various destinations, I would like to offer some recommendations for your trip to Kuala Lumpur. Whether you're visiting briefly or staying for an extended period, I hope these suggestions will enhance your experience and create lasting memories.
Day one in Kuala Lumpur
I spent the day visiting Petronas Towers first and then Batu Caves. After that I spent the evening till late at Bukit Bintang district. And here is all about it.
Petronas Towers
So, I decided to kick off my day by visiting the Petronas Towers. I started with some shopping at the mall inside and treated myself to a tasty meal at one of the food outlets. There’s a park with a kids' water playground right by the towers, which is great for families. Plus, it was just 600 meters from where I was staying, so it was a perfect first stop.
The Petronas Towers are pretty amazing. They’re a huge part of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline and are considered one of the most impressive pieces of modern architecture. The two towers are connected by this incredible sky bridge on the 41st and 42nd floors, where you can get some stunning views of the city.
Inside, there’s this huge shopping centre called Suria KLCC. It has over 300 high-end stores, tons of dining options, a cinema, an art gallery, and even a science discovery centre. It’s really got something for everyone.
Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Petronas Towers are a must-see if you’re in Malaysia. The observation deck offers stunning views, and at night, the towers light up with a dazzling show that’s just magical.
After I spent some time at the towers, I headed back to my hotel. I relaxed for a bit and took a shower. Once I felt rested, I booked a Grab (which is like the Malaysian Uber) and headed out to Batu Caves.
Batu Caves
I spent the second half of my day exploring Batu Caves and soaking in the rich history of the place.
Batu Caves is an incredible Hindu temple near Kuala Lumpur that’s truly breathtaking. The giant golden statue of Lord Murugan standing tall against the cliffs is a sight you won’t forget. Climbing the 272 rainbow-colored steps can be a bit of a challenge, but the views from the top and the beautiful temple make it worth every step.
Inside the caves, you’ll find ancient shrines, beautiful rock formations, and natural light that illuminates the stunning interior. It’s a must-visit if you’re looking for something unique and special in Malaysia. And before you head back down, don’t forget to take in the amazing view of Kuala Lumpur from the top.
Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Coming down the steps might seem easier, but I was still pretty tired afterward. So, I decided to recharge with some fresh coconut water from one of the shops at the bottom. While I was sipping on it, I took a moment to watch the monkeys and pigeons around—there’s a lot of natural beauty here too.
After that, I took a taxi back to my hotel, and that’s when I realised that taxis are more expensive than Grab. Once I got back to the hotel, I took a shower because I was sweating from the climb.
Bukit Bintang
As the sun started to set, I made my way over to the vibrant Bukit Bintang district, where I enjoyed an evening filled with unforgettable entertainment and delicious food. From bustling street markets to trendy shopping malls, Bukit Bintang really had it all.
Bukit Bintang is a lively area in Kuala Lumpur, famous for its upscale shopping centres, trendy bars, and exciting nightlife. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who loves shopping and entertainment.
One of the most well-known streets in Bukit Bintang is Jalan Alor, which is a foodie’s paradise. It offers a wide range of delicious street food from Chinese, Malay, and Thai cuisine. Jalan Alor truly comes alive at night, making it the perfect place to experience local culture and flavours. Whether you’re in the mood to shop or eat, Bukit Bintang is a great place to spend your evening.
Another highlight in Bukit Bintang is Pavilion, a top-tier shopping mall with over 500 retail stores, including luxury brands and local boutiques. The mall also has an impressive food court, a cinema, and a rooftop garden with stunning views of the city.
Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Passing through Jalan Alor was a unique experience. I had not seen that many people before at any food street as in Jalan Alor.
Not for everyone
Jalan Alor may be a foodie's paradise, but it's not for the faint-hearted. The hustle and bustle can be overwhelming, and for those with a sensitive nose, the strong food aromas can be a challenge. While I appreciate the diverse flavours on offer, I found myself unable to indulge. So, I opted for a more serene dining experience at Pavilion. Bon Appétit!
Al Amar restaurant
Lebanese cuisine never ceases to amaze me with its bold and intricate flavours, and the mixed platter of beef, chicken, and lamb that I savoured at Al Amar restaurant at Pavilion was no exception. It was grilled to perfection, with a smoky and juicy texture that complemented the tangy notes of the accompanying garlic sauce. Every bite was a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Day 2 & 3: Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands
If you’re looking to escape the heat and busy life of Kuala Lumpur, you should head north to the Cameron Highlands. It’s this lovely hill station in Pahang with a cool climate, lush greenery, and some really stunning views.
So, here’s how my trip went: I was all set for a relaxing adventure and hopped on a bus, excited to check out the natural beauty of the area. But, oh boy, the traffic was a mess, and the trip took way longer than I expected. By the time I got there, I realised I’d spent most of the day just travelling, and I had hardly any time left to explore.
But since I was already there, I figured I might as well stay the night. And you know what? It turned out to be a great decision.
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
The journey to Cameron Highlands takes about 3-4 hours each way by car or bus, depending on traffic. So, you end up spending most of your time just travelling, leaving you with limited time to see the sights and enjoy the scenery.
To really take in the beauty and peace of Cameron Highlands, it’s a good idea to spend at least one night there. That way, you can fully enjoy the cool weather and explore the area without feeling rushed.
Things to do in Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands has so much to offer. You’ve got the lush Tea Plantations stretching out as far as you can see, and the really cool Mossy Forest that feels like another world. You can stroll through Strawberry Farms and pick your own fruit or check out the Butterfly Farm with its amazing array of butterflies, insects, and reptiles. If you're into adventure, there are some great Hiking Trails with breathtaking views. And when the sun sets, don’t miss the vibrant Brinchang and Tanah Rata Night Markets, full of colour and delicious food.
I spent two days and one night there and came back to Kuala Lumpur feeling really satisfied. It was a lot of fun.
After returning to Kuala Lumpur, I enjoyed a good, restful sleep. My flight wasn’t until 11:55 PM the next day, so I had the whole day to myself. I slept in, checked out of my hotel around 2 PM, and then went to SURIA KLCC for a tasty meal. Later, I caught a movie and watched the hilariously absurd “Cocaine Bear”. By the time the movie ended, it was about 8 PM, so I headed to the airport for my flight home. I hope my trip gives you some ideas for your own adventure!
Click next on Hanoi to see all about my next adventure in Vietnam.