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There are so many fun and diverse free things to do and see in Kuala Lumpur. The vibrant capital of Malaysia isn’t all about soaring skyscrapers and fancy rooftop bars. It also has a wealth of culture, beautiful green spaces and charming temples to explore for free. It’s very easy to explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget because it’s a very affordable city to travel.
14 FREE THINGS TO DO IN KUALA LUMPUR
KLCC PARK
Located behind the Petronas Twin Towers is this little oasis in the middle of the city. It’s a massive green space with a jogging track, fountains and it’s one of the best spots to photograph the twin towers from ground level.
There’s also a massive man-made lake where The Lake Symphony Fountains play every night at 7:30, 8:00, 8:30, 9:00, 9:30 and 10:00pm for free.
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BATU CAVES
An iconic sight and one of the best free things to do in Kuala Lumpur is visit the Batu Caves which is the famous Hindu temple with the rainbow stairs. Because it’s a temple, you must be dressed appropriately to visit, meaning knees and shoulders are covered (for men and women). With 272 stairs to climb, it’s a little workout in the heat. Watch out for the monkeys inside the caves.
Located about 16km from the city centre, so you can take the train or a Grab (Asian Uber).
CHINATOWN
Chinatown is a very historical part of Kuala Lumpur with pretty, historical buildings, street art, street food, cafes, beautiful temples, and more. The famous Petaling Street is busy day and night, but it comes even more alive with the night market. And it’s a bargain hunter’s paradise, so you can expect loads of cheap, fake goods to buy, as well as cheap and delicious food. If you’re into art, walking around and exploring all the street art is one of the best free things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
SIN SZE SI YA TEMPLE
This beautiful Chinese temple is the oldest Taoist temple in the city. Located near the Central Market in Chinatown.
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CENTRAL MARKET
Located in a historical art deco building, Central Market offers culture, art, handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, a food court and more. Near Petaling Street in Chinatown.
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THEAN HOU TEMPLE
Thean Hou Temple is the most beautiful Chinese temple I have ever seen and it’s one of my favorite places in Kuala Lumpur. Go before sunset to see the temple during the day, at sunset, and then after dark with all the pretty lanterns. And it has a lovely view of the city.
Located near Little India (Brickfields) and the easiest way to get there is via Grab.
WILAYAH MOSQUE
Inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul in Turkey, this mosque can hold up to 17,000 people for prayer. It doesn’t seem to be well-known, so there was barely anyone there when I went, which was amazing. A tour of the mosque is mandatory, but it’s free. Cloaks are provided for coverage and shoes must be removed.
I went via Grab on my way to the Batu Caves, as they are both out of the city centre.
If you want to admire another beautiful mosque, check out Masjid Negara, which is the national mosque of Malaysia, near the Botanical Garden.
LADIES’ NIGHT
If you’re a lady, good news! Many bars in Kuala Lumpur have Ladies’ Night where women get a free drink or two. Sometimes it’s 2 for 1 drink prices, but in many cases drinks are legitimately free. Click here for some Ladies’ Night bar recommendations.
MERDEKA SQUARE
This is where Malaysia declared its independence from Britain in 1957 and it’s the colonial core of Kuala Lumpur with some of the city’s most famous historical buildings. Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a beautiful example of Moorish-style architecture and Masjid Jamek is a combination of ancient Moorish, Islamic and Mughal architectural styles. Near Chinatown.
SRI MAHAMARIAMMAN TEMPLE
This is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur and it’s located by Petaling Street in Chinatown.
BRICKFIELDS
This is Kuala Lumpur’s Little India where you can wander and enjoy the flavorful food and the atmosphere.
BAZAAR BARU CHOW KIT
This is one of the largest local markets in Malaysia. Local markets are always one of the best places to see the authentic hustle and bustle of what local life is life. And they always have some amazing cheap eateries as well.
PERDANA BOTANICAL GARDEN
Another beautiful and peaceful oasis and break from the busy city. It’s free to enjoy, but if you want to visit the Bird Park and the Butterfly Park, it costs RM63 and RM25 ($15US and $6US).
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COOL DOWN IN A MALL
Shopping malls are a big part of the culture in Kuala Lumpur, so walk around, observe and enjoy. But they’re also a very appreciated break from the heat and humidity (or escape from a downpour).
