The Best Sight in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Background Illustration for Sights

The center of Kuala Lumpur is considered to be Merdeka Square, in front of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and among various historical buildings. Just south of here is Chinatown, filled with shopping and food stalls. A short walk away from KL Sentral station is Brickfields, the Little India of the city, where you’ll find endless rows of shops selling saris and dry goods from India. Farther south is Bangsar, a hip restaurant and clubbing district. The city’s central business district is the Golden Triangle, northeast of Chinatown and home to luxury hotels, shopping centers, and the Petronas Towers.

Petronas Twin Towers

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - NOVEMBER 30: Night time of Petronas Twin Towers on November 30, 2011 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This building (451.9m/88 floors) is the tallest twin buildings in the world.; Shutterstock ID 114110896; Project/Title: fodors.com dest
charnsitr / Shutterstock

Completed in 1996, this 88-story twin structure encased in steel and glass is now one of Malaysia's most iconic buildings. The towers were inspired by former Prime Minister Tun Mahathir Mohamad's vision of an internationally recognized landmark that would symbolize courage and the advancement of the nation—exactly what the Petronas Towers have become to many. Skybridge, the double-decker structure connecting the two towers and also the world's highest two-story bridge, helps form the letter "M" for Malaysia. Take the elevator up to Skybridge, walk across on the 42nd level, and then zip up to the 86th floor to take in the expansive panorama. Note that tickets for Petronas Tower are limited and issued on a first-come, first-serve basis daily, so show up early—doors open at 8:30 am and tickets go quickly. There are plenty of shops and places to eat at the base of the towers. Adjacent is Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park, whose playgrounds and long, inviting pool will keep kids happy for hours. You can also glimpse the towers from a distance at night for a brilliant light show.