10 hidden gems off the beaten track in KL you must visit when you’re there, or you might as well visit KSL

Last Updated on 2016-05-19 , 1:52 pm

Kuala Lumpur is a city full of diverse culture and experiences that are bound to delight any traveller that ventures into this part of Malaysia.

The usual tourist traps such as Petronas Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur Tower are already well-known and need no further introduction.

If you are looking to experience KL like a local or just discover more of this unique city, check out the list below for food, attractions and more.

Istana Budaya

This is the national theatre of Malaysia, the cultural hub of the city, where the arts are celebrated here. Check out what are the acts that will be performing here when you are in KL and book your tickets for an unforgettable experience in the theatre.

Tamarind Springs

Take a brief respite from the concrete jungle of KL and escape into a quiet, wild greenery. Tamarind Springs is a fine dining restaurant with a different concept, where nature is embraced and incorporated into its design while the Indochinese fare served are bound to delight your taste buds.

Broga Hill

This is a famous hiking place among the locals, they love to trek up the hill in the wee hours of the morning just in time to catch the sunrise and to take in the breathtaking view on the hill. Burn off some of those calories you have accumulated scarfing down that delicious food that KL is famous for and remember to bring your camera to capture the amazing sunrise. You will need to rent a car to get here as there is no public transport nearby and it is more convenient to get around.

Sunway Lagoon

The neighbouring state to Kuala Lumpur is Selangor and there are many things to do here as well. It is relatively accessible, as more and more public transport infrastructure is being developed around this area. Sunway Lagoon is a water theme park that has been attracting huge crowds with its integrated shopping centre, indoor ice skating rink and numerous restaurants.

Royal Museum

Previously known as the official residence of the king and queen of Malaysia, the place has now been converted into a museum as the royal family has moved to a new palace. A truly grand and majestic building, visit this place and feel like royalty but take note that no photography is allowed inside the building.

Taman Connaught Night Market

If you can’t get enough of Malaysia’s street food, be sure to hit up this 2.4km-long night market that is popular with the locals. Every Wednesday night, locals from various parts of the city can be found thronging the night market to get their fill of tantalising food and haggling over the prices of merchandise until midnight.

Omakase + Appreciate

This speakeasy bar is truly hidden, in fact, you have your work cut out trying to find the entrance to the place but this is part of its charm and makes things more interesting.

The bar’s wonderful award-winning mixologists will create a customised cocktail for you based on your preference which is worth the visit alone. The bar is great for an intimate night out with your close friends.

Capital Cafe

This old school cafe began its operations in 1956 and has stood the test of time due to its varied menu that draws in the crowd daily. This restaurant embodies the very essence of Malaysia’s multicultural diversity, where the mixed bag of customers indulges in the tempting comfort food on offer.

Sin Hua Bee Bakery

Located in Chow Kit, this bakery exudes an atmosphere of a traditional Chinese medicine hall. Don’t let appearances deceive you, as the sweet treats on display will quickly dispel any illusion of it selling anything other than the tempting baked goods. Famous for their traditional Chinese wedding biscuits (ga lui beng), this is a must-try even if you are not planning to tie the knot anytime soon.

Aquaria KLCC

While KLCC is a well-known location for tourists, did you also know that there is an aquatic life exhibition centre in the building? Now you don’t have to travel far to view exotic marine life, instead you can learn and explore more about the fascinating creatures which include live sharks, eels and turtles which are a part of its over 5000 displays.

Top Image: Farris Noorzali / Shutterstock.com