The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Kuala Lumpur On A Budget

There are so many fun and diverse things to do and see in Kuala Lumpur on a budget.  The vibrant capital of Malaysia isn’t all about soaring skyscrapers as it also has a wealth of beautiful green spaces and charming temples to explore.  And as for the culture, Kuala Lumpur (also known as KL) is a melting pot of Malay, Indian and Chinese which creates a unique and all-star blend of food, architecture, culture and nightlife.  You can find incredible and affordable street food all over the city, the architecture is beautiful and diverse, the people are friendly, and it’s modern, clean and relatively safe.  And it’s easy to explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget because it’s a very affordable city to travel.  

I absolutely loved Kuala Lumpur and I can’t wait to go back.  It’s a city I would even consider living in.  For some reason, a lot of travelers hate on Kuala Lumpur, which completely baffles me because I found it very easily likeable and there’s something for everyone.  It’s also another major travel hub in Asia and Southeast Asia, so it’s a great alternative to Bangkok.

MONEY & COSTS

 

THE CURRENCY IS THE RINGGIT

$1US  =  RM4.

COST BREAKDOWN

ACCOMMODATION

Hostel dorms rooms cost $6-10US per night, while a private room costs between $15-25 US per night.  Free breakfast is typically included, as well as A/C and WiFi.  However, most hostels don’t have kitchens, but the food in Kuala Lumpur is delicious and super cheap.

A room in a budget hotel starts around $18US per night and includes WiFi, breakfast, and A/C.  For a hotel with a pool, expect to pay at least $50 USD per night.  These costs can be split between two of course.  

FOOD & DRINKS 

Street food costs around $2US per meal, while a meal in a modest restaurant will cost $1-5US 

A meal and drink at a mid-range restaurant with table service will cost around $10US.  And there are also loads of high-end dining options in Kuala Lumpur, if you want to treat yourself.  

A beer at the bar should be around $4US, but if you want to visit one of Kuala Lumpur’s iconic rooftop bars (which I highly recommend!), a drink will cost around $8US.  If you’re female, lucky you because Ladies’ Night drink deals are unreal.  Typically on Wednesday nights, the deals range from 2 for 1 drink prices to full-on free drinks.

TRANSPORT

Bus and train tickets start at $1US, depending on the distance.  Grab (the Asian form of Uber) is also an affordable option.     

 

Kuala Lumpur on a budget  =  $20-45US per day 

 

24 THINGS TO DO IN KUALA LUMPUR ON A BUDGET

 

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS

These iconic 88 floor twin towers are the symbol of Kuala Lumpur and they were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004.  It costs RM80 ($20US) if you want to see the view from the towers.

However, there are loads of rooftop bars, restaurants and accommodation in Kuala Lumpur that have amazing views of the Petronas Twin Towers.  Sometimes the view of the sight you want to see is better than the view from the sight you want to see.  The best view of the towers is at night when it’s lit up. 

 

KLCC PARK

Located behind the 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.  Free.

 

BATU CAVES

Another iconic sight in Kuala Lumpur is 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.  Free.

Located about 16km from the city centre, so you can take the train or a Grab.

 

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, delicious food.  I was a big fan of the tropical fruit options (which are all cut up and ready to eat).  

 

SIN SZE SI YA TEMPLE

This beautiful Chinese temple is the oldest Taoist temple in the city.  Located near the Central Market in Chinatown.  Free.

 

ROOFTOP BARS

Instead of paying RM80 ($20US) for the view from the Petronas Twin Towers, why not pay less and have a drink while enjoying the view from a rooftop bar?  Be sure to check the dress code before you go.  

SkyBar  –  Located on the 33rd floor with an unreal view of the towers.  Drinks cost RM30-50 ($7.50-12)

Heli Lounge  –  This very cool and unique spot is a helicopter landing pad by day and a rooftop bar on the 34th floor by night, so the view is amazing!  Going right before sunset is the best time to go.  Most drinks cost RM30 ($7.50US), which is very affordable for enjoying Kuala Lumpur on a budget.

 

ROOFTOP AND INFINITY POOLS

There are loads of high-rise buildings with rooftop and infinity pools that have incredible views of Kuala Lumpur, so it’s popular to stay at a hotel or Airbnb for a night or two with these amenities.  And there are even a few hostel options as well.  Luckily, I have a friend in Kuala Lumpur who lives in a place like this.

 

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.  

 

THEAN HOU TEMPLE

It’s 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 nice view of the city.  Free.

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.

 

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.

 

CRACK HOUSE COMEDY CLUB

Have a night full of laughs at this comedy club for RM15-35 ($4-9US) depending on the act, which is a very affordable night out in Kuala Lumpur on a budget.  Shows are in English. 

 

SRI MAHAMARIAMMAN TEMPLE

This is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur and it’s located by Petaling Street in Chinatown.  Free. 

 

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. 

 

EAT THE STREET FOOD

Forget the fear mongering about eating street food.  The best and most authentic food in Malaysia is street food and it would be a hate crime to avoid it.  This also includes the fresh fruit and fruit juice.  You’ll be fine.  But also, take Dukoral (an oral vaccine that helps prevent traveler’s diarrhea) before your travels.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to eat well in Malaysia at only a few dollars per meal for street food.  The night markets have the best street food.

You can take a street food tour, but they’re absurdly overpriced at $20-80US+.

 

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS

“Trick your eye and entertain your mind” at the Museum of Illusions.  It’s a fun place to check out, especially if you need a break from the heat or rain.  MR45 ($11US).

 

KL TOWER (aka MENARA TOWER)

This needle-like tower offers 360 degree views from 276m high for RM50 ($12US).  However, seeing the Sky Deck and Sky Box, with it’s famous glass floor, is the more exciting choice at 300m high.  But it’s also the more expensive choice at RM99 ($25US).  Located near KL Forest Eco Park.

 

KL FOREST ECO PARK

This is a large natural rainforest in the city centre with a 200m canopy walk.  It used to be free, but now it costs RM40 ($10US).  Located near the KL Tower.

 

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).  

 

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).  

 

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM

This is a great place to learn about the country you’re visiting.  The museum details Malaysia’s history and diverse cultural heritage.  Located near Perdana Botanical Garden.  RM5 ($1.25US).

 

TAKE A COOKING CLASS

If you fall in love with the food in Kuala Lumpur and you want to learn how to make it yourself, you can take a cooking class.  They’re not the cheapest activity, but they won’t break the bank either and if it’s something you really want to do, you should treat yourself.  See here for choices of cooking classes.  Prices vary.

 

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO MALACCA

This charming historical city is known for its cuisine as well as its colonial Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture and heritage sites.  It’s 145km (2.5 hours) south of Kuala Lumpur and the fastest and cheapest way to get there is the bus, which costs between RM10-20 ($2.50-5US).

 

WHERE TO EAT

 

Jalan Alor  –  This is Kuala Lumpur’s famous street food area and night market that’s open 24 hours every day.  Located in Bukit Bintang.

Lot 10 Hutong  –  This food court is where you’ll some of the best hawker stalls in Malaysia.  Located in Lot 10 Shopping Mall in Bukit Bintang.  

Kampung Baru Night Market  –  This famous night market runs every Saturday evening where dozens of hawker stalls set up around Jalan Raja Muda Musa.  It’s run by Malays so it’s known for Malay food.

Middle Eastern restaurants  –  Because Malaysia is Islamic, many people from every other Islamic country immigrate to Malaysia, which results in a phenomenal melting pot of cultures and delicious food.  You can try Lebanese, Syrian, Turkish, Yemeni, Persian cuisine and more.  

Chinatown  –  You’ll find loads of cheap and delicious street food here

Din Tai Fung  –  Affordable Michelin Star Taiwanese cuisine that is worth the wait.  

Merchant’s Lane  –  This hidden, charming and photogenic cafe offers a quiet getaway from the busy Petaling Street in Chinatown.  It offers coffee and tea, brunch and an international mix of dishes.  

Ali, Muthu & Ah Hock Kopitiam  –  A favorite coffee shop serving popular Malaysian dishes and drinks.

 

WHERE TO DRINK

 

Aside from Heli Lounge and SkyBar,  check out Changkat which is the lively bar street in Bukit Bintang.  The nightlife here is really fun and it’s such an awesome and diverse mix of people and cultures.  And it’s ladies’ night pretty much every night, which is a dream if you’re a female in Kuala Lumpur on a budget 🙂 

 

WHERE TO STAY

 

Accommodation is a dream for travelers in Kuala Lumpur on a budget.  Bukit Bintang and Chinatown are great, affordable and central areas to stay in the city with loads of great budget hotels and hostels to choose from.  Which makes it really difficult to choose, but that’s a great problem to have.  

Dorms KL  –  It’s a great location in Bukit Bintang with friendly and helpful staff, a rooftop bar and an amazing Indian restaurant downstairs with free breakfast.  I stayed here in both a dorm room and a private room.

Sunshine Bedz KL  –  Another popular and highly rated hostel in Bukit Bintang.

Birdnest Collective Cafe & Guesthouse  –  A great hostel in Chinatown with a rooftop cafe and colorful art.  

 

WHEN TO GO

 

Kuala Lumpur is equatorial and has a tropical, hot and humid climate year round.  There isn’t a bad time to go, but the best time to go is the dry season from May to September.  But June to August is also festival season so it’ll be more crowded and prices will rise.  

However, it will rain any month of the year.  The rainiest months are March, April, October and November.  The day-time average temperature is 30-35C year round.  

Avoid Chinese New Year if you’re exploring Kuala Lumpur on a budget as prices will rise.  I was in Kuala Lumpur in February during the last few days of Chinese New Year celebrations.  

 

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN KL?

 

3 days in Kuala Lumpur is a good place to start.  But if you want to do and see a lot and if you fall in love with the city, like I did, then 3 days won’t be enough.  

 

GETTING IN

 

Take the non-stop KLIA Ekpress train from the airport to the city centre.  It’s easy, it costs RM55 ($14US) and takes about 30 minutes.  From the city centre, you will likely need to take a connecting train to reach your accommodation.

However, if you have a person or two to share with, you can take a Grab to the city centre which is cheaper than the train when split.

 

GETTING AROUND

 

There are far fewer motorbikes in Kuala Lumper compared to nearly every other Southeast Asian city.

WALK

The best way to explore KL.

TAKE THE TRAIN OR BUS

Kuala Lumpur is very well-connected.  Tickets start at 2MR ($1US), depending on the distance.

USE THE GRAB APP

It’s the Asian form of Uber and you can choose a car or motorbike to pick you up.  Get the app here and download and set it up before you leave for your trip.  It’s safe, easy and reliable because you don’t have to haggle on a price and the driver can’t get lost or rip you off.  And it’s very affordable, so you can conveniently explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget.

 

COMMUNICATION

 

ENGLISH IS WIDELY SPOKEN

Most people you encounter as a tourist speak English.  

GET A LOCAL SIM CARD

They’re dirt cheap and they’ll make your life so much easier.  And being connected is essential for using Grab.  Make sure your phone is unlocked.

 

WHAT TO WEAR

 

Despite the fact that Malaysia is an Islamic country, Kuala Lumpur is very cosmopolitan and diverse so shorts and a tank top are fine for women to wear.  However, you need to cover up while visiting most temples.

 

SAFETY & SCAMS

 

Kuala Lumpur is a safe city to visit, but petty crime does exist. Pickpockets operate in popular tourist areas and public transit.  Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and don’t make it easy for thieves. 

AVOID THE COMMON SCAMS

Taxis in the city have a bad reputation for ripping tourists off, so avoid them altogether and just use Grab, especially if you’re exploring Kuala Lumpur on a budget.

Be aware of how much attractions cost before you arrive.  For example, the Batu Caves are free to enter, however there are people who will try to sell you fake tickets.

Sure, monkeys are cute, but they can be sinister and vicious as hell, as well as carry rabies and steal your belongings (including your bag and phone).  So keep this in mind when you think they’re cute and want to pet, feed and take selfies with them.  Do not eat around monkeys as they can become aggressive and they will steal your food.

 

FEMALE TRAVELERS

 

I explored Kuala Lumpur as a solo female traveler and I didn’t have any problems, but there are precautions to follow. Watch your drink at bars, never get too drunk, avoid walking alone at night, and take regulated taxis at night.  And be sure to take advantage of Ladies Night 🙂

 

LGBTQA+ TRAVELERS

 

Because Malaysia is an Islamic majority, homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia.  However, because Kuala Lumpur is more modern, you will find a gay scene with gay bars and saunas.  But both gay and straight couples need to avoid public displays of affection.

 

WHERE TO NEXT?

 

Singapore  –  1 hour flight or 5-7 hour bus ride, depending on traffic

Penang  –  1 hour flight, 4 hour train or 4.5 hour bus

Cameron Highlands  –  3.5-4.5 hour bus

 

 

MORE INFORMATION ON TRAVELING SOUTHEAST ASIA

 

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO MALAYSIA

THE 3 MOST BEAUTIFUL TEMPLES IN KUALA LUMPUR

SOUTHEAST ASIA – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

29 REASONS WHY YOU NEED TO TRAVEL TO SOUTHEAST ASIA

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THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE FOR SINGAPORE ON A BUDGET

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