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Why?  From the top of the world's tallest building, to the alleyways of Chinatown and Little India, a holiday in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's soaring city, is breath-taking. The metropolis is also a source of fantastic shopping, amazing food and very inexpensive luxury hotels. The city's cultural diversity provides plenty of sightseeing for those who travel to Kuala Lumpur, from tranquil temples and glorious gardens to bustling street markets.

When?  Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid all year round, and rain can be expected any time. The city is therefore a year-round destination, but it is best to check which local festivals or cultural events are on before you travel to Kuala Lumpur because the crowds these attract may make it better to avoid these occasions.

Who for?  Essentially a holiday in Kuala Lumpur is for shopaholics, who will relish the fantastic malls and street markets. Families can have a great deal of fun if they travel to Kuala Lumpur too, with its amazing indoor theme park. Others will just enjoy wandering the streets between the towering sky-scrapers and eating as often as possible at the city's legendary restaurants.

More Info:  Everything you need to know to plan and enjoy a holiday in Kuala Lumpur is contained in our up-to-date and comprehensive Kuala Lumpur travel guide, which can be printed or emailed.

Overview

Kuala Lumpur is the bustling capital city of Malaysia and its showpiece of prosperity and grandeur. Kuala Lumpur means 'muddy estuary', a name coined by the original tin prospectors who arrived at the confluence of the Kelang and Gombak rivers in 1860. Kuala Lumpur has progressed considerably since then as can be witnessed in the reflections of the glittering skyscrapers elegantly rising between the well-preserved colonial buildings of yesteryear.

This blend of old and new worlds, interspersed with the diverse influences of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultural lifestyles, makes for a fascinating exploration of the city's streets. An orientation of Kuala Lumpur is best begun from Merdeka Square, the heart of the city. To the southeast of the square is the modern business centre and the bustling streets of Chinatown. The picturesque National Mosque (Masjid Negara) and impressive Railway Station can be located to the south and beyond them to the west is the city's green belt. The tranquil and lush Lake Gardens provides some respite from the frenetic activity of the city. The National Museum (Muzim Negara), the National Monument and the Malaysian Parliament are also found on this stretch.