10 Things to do in Kuala Lumpur on a Budget

I have anticipated drafting Malaysia inspired blog posts since returning from Southeast Asia. Something about that country completely took my breath away, for various reasons. Prior to arriving in Kuala Lumpur, I had never traveled to a country quite like Malaysia. I was on sensory overload immediately after disembarking my train to the city center.

With only a few days to explore the city, and a limited budget, I quickly made a game plan. After walking for {literally} miles around beautiful, chaotic, traditional, incredible Kuala Lumpur, I came up with a list of 10 things to do in the city on a budget. Most of the activities on this list are free – in fact all but one won’t cost you a cent {or in this case a ringgit}.

1. Chinatown

The first destination I arrived to in Kuala Lumpur was the vibrant Chinatown. The hostel I called my temporary home {Once Again Hostel}, was conveniently located within walking distance of Chinatown. After about 12 minutes, I found myself at the entrance of Jalan Tun H S Lee street. The whole of Chinatown is located within a few streets, and lined with vendors and large beams holding a glass roof to protect pedestrians against nasty weather. Smells of spices and booming voices encouraging people to purchase goods creates a chaotic, but pleasant environment. It’s completely free to explore Chinatown, so take your time and soak it all in.

Address: {MAP}

Hours: Vary depending on where you visit in Chinatown, but things begin to open between 9:00 – 10:00 AM for the most part.

2. Petronus Towers

Witnessing the Petronus Towers are on most visitors bucket list when they venture to Kuala Lumpur. While I don’t deny their beauty, I must say I was a bit underwhelmed when I first approached the two identical buildings. Do I think they live up to the hype surrounding them? No. Am I glad I got to witness them for myself? Yes. That being said, I only got to see them in daylight and I’ve heard they really shine {no pun intended} after dark. It’s up to you, however laying eyes on the shiny towers won’t cost you a dime and makes for a great budget activity.

Address: Concourse Level, Petronas Twin Tower, Lower Ground, 50088, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia {MAP}

3. Eco Forest

Just steps from the Petronus Towers is the Kuala Lumpur Eco Forest. There is no entrance fee to the Eco Forest and makes for a perfect afternoon if you are looking for a bit of nature. The highlight of the Eco Forest in my opinion is the canopy walk {200 meters long}. You can enter on either side of the canopy walk {I entered the park using the entrance closest to the Petronus Towers and found the canopy entry point right away}. Once above the trees you are treated to aerial views of the city, as well as a clear view of the Kuala Lumpur Tower.

Address: Jalan Raja Chulan, Bukit Ceylon, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia {MAP}

Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

4. Batu Caves

Another popular {and free} attraction in Kuala Lumpur are the Batu Caves. You may have seen the exterior of these caves on Instagram, especially after they recently painted the stairs leading up to the caves to resemble a rainbow. If you are not properly dressed to visit the caves, you have the option to rent a sarong for 5 RM {approx. $1.00}. Note you will get 3 RM of that back when you return the sarong.

The main cave is absolutely spectacular. Not only is it interesting to simply marvel at, but you can feed and hang out with monkeys while inside. It began to torrential downpour while I was inhabiting the caves, and I found it so incredibly cozy I could have remained there all afternoon.

Address: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia {MAP}

Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

5. Thean Hou Temple

One of my favorite temples in all of Southeast Asia was the Then Hou Temple. If you choose to veto taking a taxi like I did, you’ll find it extremely difficult to reach the temple. I traveled to the nearest metro station, continued through a dodgy neighborhood, under an abandoned overpass, along a highway, and eventually up a large hill. All without data I might add. I definitely do not recommend this option. Take a taxi. And get a SIM card while you are at it. While you will miss out on a unique story to tell your friends and family later, it will save you the unnecessary hassle.

Thean Hou Temple itself is absolutely breathtaking {and free!}. Red lanterns hang from every ledge and the temple itself contains splashes of vibrant blues, greens, yellows, and oranges. I was granted extraordinary views of the city and {for the most part} had the temple to myself around 8:30 AM.

Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia {MAP}

Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

6. Shop at Central Market

I must admit that I rarely shop when I travel – weird, right? I know a lot of people collect souvenirs to remind them of their travels, but to be honest I have zero interest in doing so. My photographs and my words {aka this blog} are the souvenirs I cherish most. That being said, I actually spent some money in Malaysia. And by some, I mean less than $15 USD, but still.

Many stores in Kuala Lumpur {and the Central Market in particular} sell knock-off versions of many high-end make-up, and beauty, products. While it’s inevitable that many fall flat, there are some diamonds in the rough if you are willing to sample a few. And your girl was more than willing. Half of my life is spent watching YouTube make-up tutorials after all.

I also purchased a beautiful scarf to assist me in covering up when necessary {which honestly felt like 99% of locations in Malaysia due to the constant staring}. On top of that, I bought a pair of sandals for around $6.00 USD. Now, this is a heap of purchases in comparison to most of my travels. Regardless, I have no regrets. The Central Market is definitely a must – even if you don’t plan on purchasing anything!

Address: Jalan Hang Kasturi, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia {MAP}

Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

7. Perdana Botanical Gardens

In addition to the Eco Forest, the Perdana Botanical Gardens are another great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The grounds are ginormous, and include a sunken garden, orchid garden, and a bamboo tree house {to name a few}. It’s easy to get lost among the grounds, so allocate enough time to explore them thoroughly. The gardens are free, however en route to them you’ll find as butterfly garden, and a large outdoor bird park, should you feel obliged.

Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia {MAP} – Side note, the botanical gardens were not the easiest to locate. Just make sure to ask for directions when you come across someone in the vicinity. They will be sure to point you in the correct direction. 

Hours:

Perdana Botanical Gardens – 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Butterfly Garden – 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM {Price: RM 25 – approx. $6 USD}

Bird Park – 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM {Price: 63 RM – approx. $15 USD}

8. Brickfields {Little India}

Another highlight during my trip to Kuala Lumpur included waking the streets of Little India, also referred to as Brickfields. It’s a rather small area of Kuala Lumpur, but the surrounding neighborhoods are also worth a wander. I could hear Indian music blaring from local shops and strong smells of spices wafting out of the restaurants. While Kuala Lumpur, in general, provided bursts of colors around every street corner, Brickfields really turned it up.

Down the road from Brickfields you’ll find {apparently} the best pisang {fried banana} in the whole city. Unfortunately, the yellow street stand was closed when I arrived and I had no data to search from another. Make it your mission to taste the sweet snack for yourself – directions can be found here.

Address: {MAP}

9. Merdeka Square

It’s funny because I accidentally stumbled upon Merdeka Square. I noticed the stunning Sultan Abdul Samad Building and knew I needed a closer look. Every inch of this building is a photographers dream. The square used to be a cricket green, but is now used to showcase the annual Merdeka Parade. There seem to be frequent events that take place in the square, for example an outdoor market was present during my visit. Overall it’s worth a peek, and won’t cost you anything.

Address: Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia {MAP}

10. Cafe Hop

Since I visited Malaysia during their dry season, I avoided the rain for a majority of my trip. That being said, the weather is unpredictable no matter what time of the year you visit Southeast Asia. Therefore, I experienced a few showers during my time in Kuala Lumpur. These showers usually lasted only 15 – 20 minutes, but were heavy. Ultimately, it lead to me find shelter {unexpectedly} in the nearest cafes around me. I was pleasantly surprised by the cafe culture in Kuala Lumpur, and you can read about my favorites here. And, this is technically the only item on the list that will cost you money.

Have you ever been to Kuala Lumpur? What was your first impression?