What's on in Kuala Lumpur?
Thaipusam
Thaipusam is a massive festival dedicated to Lord Muruga, the Hindu god of war. Time your return flights to Kuala Lumpur for February and watch pilgrims carry kavadi (a physical burden) up the 272 steps of Batu Cave Temple to make an offering. There is also a grand procession through the streets of Kuala Lumpur, and a statue of the god is carried in a silver chariot. With more than a million attendees, it's an incredible festival to plan your tickets to Kuala Lumpur around if you're curious about local culture.
Chinese New Year
Another key cultural celebration across Malaysia is Chinese New Year. The festival lasts for 15 days and includes various events, celebrations and goings-on. One of the most interesting is the act of handing out mandarin oranges for prosperity. If your flights to Kuala Lumpur fall over the festivities, pack something red to wear should you attend any of the dragon dances or other events. As Chinese New Year is a hugely popular time of year in Kuala Lumpur, the city can be busier than normal. Prices for return flights to Kuala Lumpur can increase due to the high demand and it's a good idea to secure your airfare to Kuala Lumpur as soon as possible.
What are the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur?
Batu Caves
The colourful Batu Caves are one of the most popular attractions for visitors with flights to Kuala Lumpur. The 272 rainbow-coloured stairs led up to the temple, dedicated to the Hindu god of war. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to arrive at 7am and you’ll get photos without other people around. Alternatively, if you're not a morning person, make sure your itinerary for your flights to Kuala Lumpur has you visiting on a weekday when the temple may be quieter. The Batu Caves are a 30-minute drive from the city centre. You can hire a car from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), use Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber) or take the local bus.
Thean Hou Temple
Thean Hou Temple is one of the oldest temples in South East Asia and is a must-see for history-buffs about to head off on flights to Kuala Lumpur. Located on top of a hill, it has spectacular views over the city. If you can, schedule separate visits to the temple, both during the day and at night for a completely different experience. Entrance is free, but a small donation is appreciated. Visitors can take the local bus to reach the temple. There are several lines that run from the city centre to Pasar Seni 7, a stop that is about 600 metres away from the temple. If you want to get there faster, organise a driver for the day or book a tour.
Wilayah Mosque
Wilayah Mosque should feature on the itinerary of your holiday using flights to Kuala Lumpur if you have an interest in learning more about local culture and spirituality. The mosque is open to Muslim and non-Muslim visitors, and the architecture is breathtaking. Come here in the morning if you want the whole place to yourself. Entrance is free, and you are given appropriate clothing to wear before you enter.
Petronas Twin Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers were once the tallest buildings in the world. Today, it's a good spot to visit while away on tickets to Kuala Lumpur to marvel at the city’s architectural feats. If you want to go to the top, entrance fees start at 65 MYR ($24.47 NZD). If your flights to Kuala Lumpur fall over the weekend or a public holiday, buy your tickets online to avoid the long lines.
What are the best restaurants and cafes in Kuala Lumpur?
Merchant's Lane Cafe
Merchant's Lane Cafe is a gorgeous, but hidden cafe in Kuala Lumpur. Look out for a tiny blue door sandwiched between Kiat Leong Stationery and Sin Chew Daily Shops. Once you're inside, enjoy a delicious mix of local and Western fusion dishes. It is a popular spot, so those wanting to avoid longer waits are best to visit just before the daily lunch rush.
VCR
Need a break from all that sightseeing you’re logging with cheap flights to Kuala Lumpur. Seek out VCR. This cafe serves up great coffee, plus tasty breakfast and lunch fare. If you're feeling peckish and in the mood for something sweet, be sure to indulge with a slice of carrot cake.
Wizards at Tribeca
Located in downtown Kuala Lumpur, Wizards at Tribeca is inspired by the Royal Palace in the Wizard of Oz. It's a beautiful little cafe with plenty of greenery and a speciality brunch menu. If you can’t decide what to order, try The Melting Pot. It features baked eggs, spinach, mushrooms, sausage, tomato coulis and toasted sourdough bread. Vegetarians or vegans headed away on flights to Kuala Lumpur will find a range of plant-based options.
When is The Best Time to Visit Kuala Lumpur?
The best time to visit Kuala Lumpur is during its dry season. From June to August, the city experiences the least amount of rain, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. The humidity levels will also be lower, making it more bearable to explore the city on foot. The only downside is that it's also peak tourist season, and you'll need to book your flights a few months in advance to lock in lower prices.
If you're travelling on a budget, you'll find the best deals during the monsoon season. The wettest months are October and November, but luckily the downpours don't last the whole day. Hotels, airlines and tour operators slash their prices to make up for this seasonal slump, and there's plenty to do indoors if any activities get rained out.
Culture vultures should plan their trip around one of the city's many festivals. The most popular one is National Day, held every year on the 31st of August. It celebrates Malaysia's independence, and parades, concerts and dance performances are held throughout the day.
Airports in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Kuala Lumpur International Airport has two terminals. KLIA1 is where most international flights will arrive. It also has a new low-cost terminal KLIA2 which is served by budget airlines for domestic and Asia flights.
Getting to and from Kuala Lumpur International Airport
The quickest way to get from the airport into the city is with the train. It runs from 5:00 a.m. to midnight and leaves every 15-20 minutes. The trip will take around 30 minutes and costs RMB 100 per person.
If you're on a tight budget, take the Airport Coach Bus. It's not the fastest option, but fares are only RMB 24.10 for adults and RMB 18.10 for children. The bus runs from 1:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and takes 90 minutes to reach the city centre.
Download the ride-sharing app Grab. You can use the airport's free WiFi to request your ride. Alternatively, you can book a metered taxi from one of the agents inside the arrivals hall.
