Kuala Lumpur travel guide for Indians
This is a modern city of 8 million with not one but two skyscrapers that are almost half a kilometre high. Kuala Lumpur or KL is the heart of Malaysia; the city sees an influx in the morning and an exodus by evening; in this sense it really functions like slowly beating heart.
An interesting fact: The Bridge between the towers is connected to neither building and just rests on both. Due to the height of the towers, both towers sway due to wind and a fixed bridge would not last.
An affordable three hour tour that starts in the morning as well as the afternoon is a good way to familiarize yourself with the city and then explore it leisurely.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple will bring you back to Tamil Nadu instantly. It is the oldest temple in KL. Outside, you will find vendors selling flowers and offerings that you can take to the Lord. It is situated a few minutes from Central Market.
Brickfield is the Indian enclave of KL. The streets have Indian shops selling desi spices, saris and clothing and it’s also the place where troubled vegetarians can refuel. Brickfield has a few century old churches and a massage center that’s staffed by blind masseurs. Get off at KL Sentral Station to visit it.
Changkat Bukit Bintang is where the young head for a night of revelry. Visit the place and choose what turns you on. There’s Pisco’s owned by a Spaniard and next door is Nagaba and moving a little further is Faranjipani for tech-house, this one turns into a gay bar on Fridays.
National Mosque (Masjid Negara) can accommodate 15,000 Muslims at one time. It has 73 meters high minarets and some 13 acres of gardens. It is open to all during periods not used for prayer by Muslims.
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Petaling Jaya suburbs is included in this list to cool you and the kids. With the best of plans, a family vacation can become a wailing one if the young are not given due attention. It’s not outstanding but will provide a welcome break for the kiddies and you.
Central Market, City Center used to be a fruit and veg market, it’s now transformed into a tourist hub with handicrafts and free shows offered by street performers. There’s an art gallery, a tourist office and a 3D museum etc., on the upper floors.
The Indian culture and presence will astound you in Malaysia but if you intend to visit this country, you should book now. With summer fast approaching, both air tickets and hotels will get more expensive. Booking now will also get you early bird discounts and EbixCash World Money Multi-currency card will save you money on forex. Buy travel insurance too and carry just enough cash for incidentals; you can always use your EbixCash Multicurrency card for withdrawing cash at ATM’s.
