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6 Best Free Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur

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I’m a student so when I hear the word free, my ears ring! Travelling can be expensive, and I can completely understand wanting to find things to do in a new location for as little as possible. Luckily for you, Kuala Lumpur is actually relatively affordable, coupled with the free activities I’m going to list for you here, you’ll definitely be able to see everything without breaking the bank!

Free Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur :

Eco Forest Park :

free things to do in kuala lumpur

Nestled away in the middle of the city is a slice of heaven, a reminder of what the city was like before all the development. The Eco Forest Park is very easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur Tower, so if you’re already in the area, definitely check it out. It isn’t very big, but the juxtaposition between the greenery surrounding you and all the high rise buildings on the outskirts is incredible! Definitely take your time there, maybe even read about some of the plants, but really just enjoy how peaceful and different it is compared to the rest of Kuala Lumpur!

Wilayah Mosque :

free things to do in kuala lumpur

One of the biggest differences between Malaysia and a lot of other countries, is our diversity. We are a blend of three different races, and their accompanying cultures/religions. Because of this, you’ll find a myriad of different cultural sites, and to represent the Muslim faction, I thought I’d introduce you to the Wilayah Mosque.

Resembling the blue mosque in Turkey very closely, and hardly ever busy, this place is the perfect way to learn a little bit more about Islam. They offer free English guided tours, and more often than not you will just be roaming around by yourself. Avoid going on Fridays though, they have Friday Prayers so it will be packed. Don’t worry about dressing conservatively as they will give you a robe and headscarf to cover up, which goes perfectly with the designs!

Thean Hou Temple :

free things to do in kuala lumpur

Representing the Buddhist faction of Malaysia, Thean Hou Temple is very important for many people of Chinese descent. It’s gorgeous, colorful, peaceful and worth it. When I went it was relatively empty, with a few people here and there praying. Definitely take your time wandering around and marveling at the intricate designs. I’d also suggest sitting at some of the tables in the pagodas, because the breeze you feel is super refreshing!

Petaling Street/Jalan Alor (At Night!)

Okay, so this is more of a money optional kind of activity. You can definitely do it for free, but spending a little money is always more fun. Petaling Street, aka Chinatown, is one of my favorite markets to go to. You can always find something you want to buy, plus it’s cheap!

Jalan Alor on the other hand, is a food lover’s paradise. All the food here is relatively cheap, I’m talking under RM20 for a meal! Not only that, it’s some of the best street food in Kuala Lumpur, it’s usually packed with people, and the atmosphere is brilliant. It’s also nice to go there, sit down with a cold cendol (shaved ice, coconut milk and Pandan flavored noodles) and just watch your surroundings!

Lake Gardens

If you’re after a little activity, especially seeing as you’ll probably eat way too much at Jalan Alor, check out Lake Gardens. It’s another slice of nature, where you’ll find two big lakes, a park and plenty of greenery to walk around. I sometimes like to go there just to relax, breathe in some fresh air, and sometimes even go for a jog. It’s also a nice place to have a picnic, so grab some food, take a seat on the grass somewhere and soak up some sun! If you’re into it, there’s also a butterfly park there with some gorgeous species – this is of course, a paid activity. There’s also a bird park, however I’m not a fan of their claim to being open air when many of the birds are in cages.

Twin Towers

KL Twin Towers free things to do in kuala lumpur

This is another one of those money optional activities, because to get to the sky bridge costs a pretty penny, but really I think the sky bridge is overrated. Besides, the view there is missing the iconic twin towers (considering you’re in it), so it looks like any old city! Getting that classic twin towers shot in front of the fountain is great and all, but it’s also really crowded. I suggest going through the mall and into the park. It’s a lot more spaced out and you can get some really nice views from there!

There you have it! Some of the best free things to do in Kuala Lumpur, in my opinion. There are also other options that are pretty much free. I’m talking of extremely low cost, for example, Batu Caves, visiting some waterfalls, and trekking in the jungle. Most of these places only require a very small entrance fee, and you’re free to be on your way, enjoy!

Click on any of the below images and save it on Pinterest.

Guest Post By Nadia Crowe from Eco Wanderland, follow her on Instagram.

Read Next : 10 Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

cheerfultrails

Anjali Wadhwa (cheerfultrails) is a travel consultant and enthusiast who has traveled to 15+ countries. She shares about her explorations through her writings. You will find detailed itineraries, best travel tips and well experienced recommendations for food, transportation and hotels on her blog.

11 thoughts on “6 Best Free Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur

  • Great post! I’m planning on visiting KL next year and am a teacher traveling on a budget so this will be helpful!

    Reply
  • The mosque looks stunning. I hope I can get to KL soon. I will pin your post for future reference!

    Reply
  • Elizabeth

    The Eco Park looks fantastic and our boys have always wanted to see the Petronas Twin Towers! They built them out of Legos when they were four years old!

    Reply
  • I would love to visit the Thean Hou Temple for sure. I think sometimes travel and sight seeing can be a little frantic and stressful and visiting a temple is a good way to remind yourself that you’re supposed to be relaxing as well.

    Reply
  • Did you say “free”?! I’m in! Thean Hou Temple looks beautiful, I’m just like you, I’d appreciate just sitting and soaking in the sights and fresh air. Sounds delightful!

    Reply
  • The ecoforest seems so cool, right in the middle of all that city! I would love to walk over that huge bridge!

    Reply
  • wanderingchocobo

    Wow, there are some awesome free things to do in Kuala Lumpur! Eco-Park looks like a wonderful escape from the urban life. Exploring the temple and mosque are a great way to see the various cultures in the area for free. Thanks for sharing your budget friendly tips!

    Reply
  • pinkcaddytraveloguegmailcom

    I am also a fan of free things haha. I love the different park options! Parks are so refreshing when you’re in the middle of the city. And I loved the tip about the sky bridge too – it’s true, if you’re on it you can’t actually see it!

    Reply
  • I would love to visit here one day! The Eco Forest park looks amazing!

    Reply
  • We were just in KL last month and though it was a busy time due to CNY, we enjoyed the temples and the food!

    Reply
  • I have never heard of Kuala Lumpur before, but the Eco Forest looks absolutely stunning – right up my alley. Great photos!

    Reply

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