Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital of Malaysia, is a city that combines both modernity and tradition, providing tourists with abundant activities at affordable prices.
What’s even more captivating is the fact that there are plenty of free places to explore among the city’s skyscrapers and busy streets.
From stunning architectural wonders to lush greenery, Kuala Lumpur offers an abundance of free things to do that suit any type of interest.
In this article, we will reveal the top 10 places to visit in Kuala Lumpur for free, so you can enjoy the finest this city has to offer without breaking the bank!
Table of contents
1. KL Forest ECO Park
Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the KL Forest Eco Park (formerly known as the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve) is one of Kuala Lumpur’s treasures that you must visit.
It is situated next to the Kuala Lumpur Tower and has been protected since 1906 as the last remaining tropical rainforest in the area.
Covering an area of over 9 hectares, this place has served as the natural habitat for several bird species and small mammals, which can be spotted during a quick stroll or picnic.
Additionally, you can explore the park’s diverse collections of trees, herbs, bamboo, and creepers along the 300–500-meter walking trails.
Location: Jalan Puncak, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 8.00 AM – 5.30 PM
Fee: Free entry
2. Thean Hou Temple
Located along Jalan Klang Lama, this magnificent six-tiered temple is dedicated to Tian Hou, a Goddess believed to protect fishermen.
It is also the home of the Guan Yin statue, the Goddess of Mercy, and is considered one of the oldest and largest temples in Southeast Asia.
Here, you can also enjoy free activities such as strolling around the tortoise pond, the sacred Bodhi tree, and the Chinese medicinal herb garden in this place.
Location: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 8.00 AM – 8.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
3. Merdeka Square
Popularly known as Dataran Merdeka, Merdeka Square is one of the most well-known places in Kuala Lumpur.
This place is named after Malaysia’s 1957 declaration of independence from colonial rule. Important events, such as National Day, are hosted here.
Considered one of the tallest flags in the world, a 100-metre-long flag flutters gloriously in Merdeka Square.
Besides, you can admire the outstanding view of Sultan Abdul Samad Building, located right in front of Dataran Merdeka. The building was originally built by the British as their government office.
During your spare time, you can also visit the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery and the National Textile Museum within this place which provide an exquisite collection of traditional textiles.
Location: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 24 hours
Fee: Free entry
4. Bank Negara Malaysia Museum
Popularly known as BNM MAG, this place offers a wide variety of themes through its six arcades, which are Children’s Gallery, Bank Negara Malaysia Gallery, Economic Gallery, Islamic Finance Gallery, Numismatics Gallery, and Art Gallery.
The exhibits here provide information about the financial and economic landscape of Malaysia from before the independence to the present.
You can broaden your insight through a number of temporary exhibitions, special events, and free activities such as computerized and collaborative games to learn about money.
Location: Sasana Kijang, 2, Jalan Dato Onn, Kuala Lumpur, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
5. Central Market
Central Market is one of the most iconic places in Kuala Lumpur that is known for its shopping opportunities. This place is easily recognizable through its iconic turquoise paint.
More than 350 stores and bazaar-style kiosks can be found here, offering a variety of goods including clothes, souvenirs, antiques, and Malaysian handicrafts, such as batik.
Besides shopping, you can enjoy local cuisine and street food by visiting the food court located on the upper floor.
Furthermore, Central Market hosts several art exhibitions and cultural performances throughout the year.
In the evenings, you can watch the locals in colorful costumes performing music, sketches, and traditional dances at the outdoor stage.
Location: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 10.00 AM – 10.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
6. Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) Park
KLCC Park is a peaceful green area located in the center of Kuala Lumpur. This place is popularly known as the best spot for taking pictures with the view of Petronas Twin Towers.
There are a children’s playing area, running track, and even a swimming pool inside the park. Thus, you can spot joggers, picnickers, or even a couple doing some bizarre yoga poses here.
However, the iconic attraction is the night fountain show in the Symphony Walk area. This beautiful show starts at 7.30 PM and is very popular as a hang our spot.
If you are an avid shopper, you can also visit Suria KLCC, a luxurious shopping mall located in the area of KLCC Park or Pavilion, another shopping mall located just 15 minutes by walk from KLCC.
Location: KLCC, Lot No. 241, Level 2, Suria, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 10.00 AM – 10.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
7. National Mosque of Malaysia
Often referred as Islamic Negara, National Mosque was constructed in 1965 and is a symbol of the nation’s independence, history, and culture.
The mosque occupies 13 acres of land and can hold up to 15,000 people for important religious gatherings.
The mosque’s 18-pointed star dome symbolizes the five pillars of Islam and the thirteen states of Malaysia.
With the 73-metre-tall turret and its gorgeous lawn with marble pools and fountains, this mosque is a fascinating place to explore, even if you are non-Muslims.
Here, robes are provided for visitors who dress inappropriately.
Location: Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
8. Perdana Botanical Gardens
Often referred as the city’s green lung, Perdana Botanical Gardens is a large park covering 226 acres of land, located in the Heritage Park of Kuala Lumpur.
This multi-entry garden offers a variety of free things to do, including strolling around the historical monuments, sitting beneath tree shades, or snapping selfies with the backdrop of miniature waterfalls.
The Hibiscus Garden, where you can witness Malaysia’s national flower in full bloom, is the main attraction of the garden.
But if you are more into the natural world, you need to visit the Orchid Garden, which is the home to more than 800 different species of orchids.
Additionally, there is Sunken Garden, a reminiscent of a European garden with a star-shaped fountain.
Location: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 7.00 AM – 6.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
9. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is a symbol of quality in both design and workmanship. Established in 1885, it stands as one of the biggest producers of pewter in Malaysia.
The glass-sided building occupies over 40,000 square feet in size and contains a factory, retail store, and multiple galleries.
At the Chamber of Chimes, you can have fun by switching back and forth in numerous chimes.
Besides, you can attend live demonstrations of pewter crafting or have an interactive workshop on pewtersmithing.
Location: Royal Selangor, Jln Seri Rejang 5, Setapak Jaya, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Fee: Free entry
10. Kwai Chai Hong
With all the murals which will bring you back to Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown in the 1960s, Kwai Chai Hong should be at the top of your list.
In fact, this place is also popular for both amateur and professional photographers for photo hunting.
Here, you can enjoy quirky designs and street art at your leisure, or you can even take part in some art events which take place during holidays, such as Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year.
Additionally, you do not need to worry about going hungry because there are tons of restaurants, including street food, hip bars, and trendy cafes you can explore.
Location: Lorong Panggung, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hour: 9.00 AM – 12.00 AM
Fee: Free entry
So, is KL a good place to invest?
As mentioned, Kuala Lumpur offers an ample number of attractions.
These popular tourist destinations enhance the city’s appeal and boost its economy by drawing millions of tourists each year, opening ample opportunities for businesses to thrive.
Furthermore, the strategic position of Kuala Lumpur for trade and commerce in Southeast Asia makes it an alluring and prompt city to invest, especially if you are looking to expand your investment portfolio into this region.
Conclusion
In general, Kuala Lumpur has proven to be a welcoming city that embraces both local and foreign tourists. It provides plenty of free activities to showcase its diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty.
From the famous KLCC Park to Thean Hou Temple, each place offers a unique view of this metropolis.
Whether you are exploring a historic neighbourhood or losing yourself in the sights of busy markets, Kuala Lumpur offers an amazing experience without breaking the budget.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bag, put on your shoes, and prepare yourself to visit Kuala Lumpur!
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