6 Non-Touristy Experiences You Can Only Have In Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur is the business hub and prominent tourist center of the entire country, housing internationally famous landmarks like the KL Tower and Petronas Twin Towers. With so much international focus it might be a little difficult not to feel like a complete tourist in the area, but with Culture Trip’s guidance, there is still much fun to be had away from the usual attractions.

Go on a food trail

The region of Kuala Lumpur is full of opportunities to showcase Malaysia’s best, as its most developed city in addition to the historical places surviving the pre-Merdeka tin ore mining town era. Going on a food trail is quite a common thing to do among locals, as Malaysians love nothing more than to spend the whole day eating some of the best foods a simple and affordable coffee shop can offer. Make your way down food-centric streets such as Jalan Pudu and Jalan Alor for the best traditional hawker foods or head to Bangsar for a more urban cafe and boutique vibe.

Stop by speakeasy bars and cafes

Cafe-hopping can be more than just a binge on coffee and cakes, as more collectives are incorporating interactive open-mike sessions and themed nights in an effort to expose budding literary talents to larger audiences. The Malaysian scene of spoken word poets is a steadily growing niche, with many flocking to artistic hubs such as Gaslight Cafe and Merdekarya, where listening ears of all cultures await. In these venues, international borders are only a legal term and anyone can fit in, with the resounding common theme of being human on the journey that is daily life.

Gaslight Cafe and Music, 15 Plaza Damansara, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, KL, Malaysia. T: +60 3-2011 4047

Merdekarya, 352 (First Floor), Jalan 5/57, Bukit Gasing, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. T: +60 16-207 1553