Kuala Lumpur. The Alpha-World City
Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a rapidly developing city that is full of vivacious energy. A premier hub for trade,commerce, finance, tourism and culture, Kuala Lumpur is the most populous city of Malaysia and is a pioneer in technological advancements.
Due to rapid industrialisation and effective governance, Kuala Lumpur has prospered into a world city and has acted as an avenue for several international events like the Commonwealth Games of 1998 and the Formula One Grand Prix.
1. History of Kuala Lumpur
Starting out as a small town for tin-miners on the banks of Klang River,
it was a spot for finance and trade owing to its strategic location. It served as home to immigrants from nearby islands, India and Cantonese Chinese. After annexation by the Malayan Empire, it served as a hub for transportation of materials like tin due to establishment of railway lines in 1865.
Since then it has been burnt down, flooded, rebuilt, sieged by the Japanese, faced severe racial riots, however it has been able to claw its way into prosperity and is currently the most developed city of Malaysia and the entire South East Asia.
2. Night Life of Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur can be aptly called a nocturnal hub due to its countless nightly pursuits. Be it the lavish range of alcoholic offerings, brilliant lighting or talented DJs playing dance-worthy music till the sun comes up, Kuala Lumpur has a great nightlife.
The night population of the city is very diversified – local youth, expats and international travellers. For tourists, there’s no shortage of exciting places to go at night. Bangsar’s Cocktail Barn, Changkat’s Bukit Bintang’s exotic nightclubs, Elysium Bar or Play Club at The Roof will ensure that you have a night to remember.
3. Safety in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is a safe city for tourists thanks to the vigilant police system. However, there have been cases of pickpocketing and motorbike snatching. Do not carry all of your money with you when you’re travelling. Stay vigilant and take general precautions. Keep your valuables safe in the hotel safe while travelling at night and your visit will be safe and enjoyable.
4. Living Expenses in Kuala Lumpur
Living in Kuala Lumpur is relatively affordable and is quite low when compared to contemporary cities. The average wage of residents is higher than the world average though.
Renting a 3 bedroom apartment in the city center may cost you RM 4526.94 (USD 1076.73) while it costs nearly RM 2181.05 (USD 518) outside the city center. Staying in a budget hotel in the city 180 RM (USD 43) per night. However, if you’re feeling fancy, the city has a lot to offer. Spending a night at the Shangri-La hotel costs as much as RM 1600 (USD 380).
5. Cuisines of Kuala Lumpur
The cuisine of Kuala Lumpur is heavily influenced by the immigrant population of the city. Be it Chinese, Indian or indigenous Malay cuisine, you’ll find yourself in for a treat.
Here’s something that you have to try while you visit this city: the Marufuku Udon at Petaling Java, the Nasi Lemak preferably at Village Park Restaurant. Spend some quality time at the cafes like the Haute Food Co Cafe and begin your day with ‘A Slice of Heaven’ by Just Heavenly.
6. Statistics of Kuala Lumpur
Most populous city in Malaysia, the city is home to 1.7 million and has a population density of nearly 6,696 residents per square kilometer. The city boasts of an exquisite multi-ethnicity in its demographics. The major ethnic groups include the Malays, the Chinese and the Indians.
The major religion that is followed is Islam. The city has nearly 46.04% Muslims, 35.7% Buddhists and 8.5% Hindu.
Major languages spoken are Cantonese, Hakka, Tamil, Hindi, English and Telugu.
7. Public Transport in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is blessed with a diverse and extensive network for public transport, be it Rapid Transit, monorail or taxis, it is easy to get around places.
The city is notorious for the gridlocked traffic during the peak hours and most tourists prefer walking around for sightseeing. It is highly recommended, though, to get a Transit card as soon as possible.
Make sure you always chart a metered taxis before boarding. KL Sentral is Southeast Asia’s largest railway station and is the city’s one stop hub for transportation with joining rail, bus and taxi networks.
Pollution in Kuala Lumpur: The city is severely challenged with air pollution. It has a PM 2.5 level of nearly 180 ppm which is downright unhealthy.
8. Weather of Kuala Lumpur
The city has a typical tropical rainforest climate which is characterised as being hot and wet mostly throughout the year. The city receives a total of 2500mm of annual precipitation mostly during the monsoon period of September to December. Temperatures tend to be constant throughout the year.
Summer: March to June. Average Low: 24°C, Average High: 34°C
Monsoon: September to December. Average Low: 23°C, Average High: 30°C
Winter: January to February. Average Low: 16°C, Average High: 26°C
9. Culture of Kuala Lumpur
Home to several cultures owing to its multi-ethnicity, The city is a cultural marvel and severe emphasis is given to developing and holding up traditions.Malaysia’s populace gets along swimmingly. Whether it’s due to the languid and generous spirit of the nation or because of the simple fact that the country is a beautiful and serene land is anyone’s guess.
Make sure you visit National Museum and Islamic Arts Museum if you get the opportunity to do so. The premier performing arts venue is the Petronas Philharmonic Orchestra. The Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) and National Arts Museum are fascinating for any tourist.
10. Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur: A visit to the Petronas Towers is a must for any tourist. 
Climb atop the Menara KL Tower and enjoy the serene and sublime beauty of the city. Shop around in the colourful ChinaTown. Pay a visit to the Hindu temple at the Batu Caves. Be fascinated by the moorish architecture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Sunway Lagoon theme park is the best place for the adrenaline seeking tourist. Other honourable mentions include the Aquaria in KLCC, Jalan Alor in Bukit Bantang, KL Bird Park for its exquisite macaws.
Things to do for Kids in Kuala Lumpur: The bright aquaria of KLCC is breathtakingly beautiful and will surely fascinate the kids.The Petrosains Discovery Centre is great for the little scientist. Sunway Lagoon is a great amusement park. Kuala Lumpur National Zoo and aquarium is also a fantastic kid-friendly tourist location.
Museum and Galleries: The Islamic Arts Museum, the National Museum, National Textile Museum, Petrosains are some great museum which uphold the heritage and culture of this relatively new city. Galleries like the Petronas Galeri, the Philharmonic Orchestra and Badan Warisan are really praiseworthy.
Places nearby: A visit to the 4 million year old limestone caves, the Batu Caves is a must for every tourist. The KL Bird Park and National Park are a good drive and a great experience.
Offbeat places: Experience the Central Market in Pasar Seni, get lost in the alleys of ChinaTown. Fish Spas are also a unique experience that could be fun to you.
Author’s Conclusion: Kuala Lumpur is a relatively new city but for a tiny city it packs in a lot of excitement and memorable experiences.Southeast Asia has some fine cities to offer and Kuala Lumpur is undoubtedly one of the best. So, go ahead and indulge yourself in the liveliness of this city.
| Country | Malaysia |
| City | Kuala Lumpur |
| Area | 243 sq.km. |
| Population | 1.67 million |
| Demonym | KLites |
| Languages | Cantonese, English, Tamil, Hindi |
| Currency | Malaysian Ringgit (1 MR = 0.24 USD as of 20th February, 2016) |
| Time Zone | Malaysian Standard Time (UTC +8) |
| Driving | Left Hand Drive, Right Hand Traffic |
| Helpline | Police-999, Ambulance-112 |
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