Kuala Lumpur/Golden Triangle

By train

The southern half of the Golden triangle, including Bukit Bintang and its surrounds, is best served by the KL Monorail and the newest MRT Sungai Buloh - Kajang (SBK) Line. The MRT SBK line passes KL Sentral at Muzium Negara and nearby the old monorail station. The monorail passes directly through the district following along Jalan Sultan Ismail, originating from KL Sentral to the South and Titiwangsa in the north. Those heading towards KLCC and Jalan Ampang can take the LRT on the Kelana Jaya line. It is possible to transfer between the LRT and Monorail at Dang Wangi LRT and Bukit Nanas Monorail stations. Take note you must exit the paid fare area and walk along Jalan Ampang and purchase separate fares. Signs are there to guide you.

By bus

Many of the Rapid KL buses go into the Golden Triangle area.
A free bus service, called GO-KL, operates two circular routes that focus on the Golden Triangle and the City Centre. Those who are around Chinatown in the City Centre can catch the Purple Line which runs from Pasar Seni to Bukit Bintang, via Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve and Menara KL. The second route, or Green Line, runs solely within the Golden Triangle. see Get around for more information on this route.

By road

The main roads in the district are Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Imbi, Jalan Raja Chulan. All these roads suffer from acute congestion, especially during peak hours. If you are coming from outside KL and want to head directly here, there are a few roads which you can take.

• From the south if coming from the North-South Expressway, you can enter the Smart Tunnel at Sungai Besi and exit at the Jalan Sultan Ismail exit, which brings you smack in the middle of Bukit Bintang. The Tun Razak exit will bring you onto Jalan Tun Razak where you can then proceed directly into KLCC after the Singapore High Commission. Jalan Tun Razak also intersects with Jalan Ampang.
• From the north, after exiting the North South Expressway's Jalan Duta exit, proceed along Jalan Duta (towards the south end or "Seremban direction" of this road) and then Jalan Istana, and then Jalan Dewan Bahasa which will bring you to Jalan Hang Tuah and Jalan Imbi to the Bukit Bintang area. To get to KLCC, proceed towards Jalan Duta (south direction), then Lebuhraya Mahameru which links up with Jalan Tun Razak. There is a tunnel linking Jalan Tun Razak directly to the KLCC car park.

By foot

KLCC and Bukit Bintang are linked by the KLCC - Bukit Bintang Walkway, an elevated and air-conditioned pedestrian bridge that links the Pavilion to Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. A further pedestrian tunnel near the convention centre exit will take you to Suria KLCC, the Petronas Towers or KLCC Park. Look for a set of escalators going underground in front of the convention centre. The walkway also links up to Impiana KLCC Hotel and a further exit is a short walk from Raja Chulan Monorail Station. The walkway is open 06:00-23:00.

By bus

There is a free GO-KL bus service. The Green Line operates from Bukit Bintang to KLCC, traveling along Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Ampang along the way. The other bus route, or Purple Line, joins up with this and heads towards the City Centre. This line can be handy to reach Menara KL and Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve.

By monorail

The monorail traverses the Golden Triangle and is especially useful, if you want to enter the district from KL Sentral, the main station of the city.

• Petronas Twin Towers

  phone: +60 3 2331 8080
  address: Jalan Ampang and Jalan P Ramlee
  Perhaps the most iconic building of Malaysia and the tallest twin building in the world. Visitors first head up to the Skybridge at level 41-42, one of the highest suspended bridges in the world, before going up to level 86 to marvel at Kuala Lumpur from the observation deck. There are also displays and informational videos about the tower and its construction. Tickets can be purchased online or at the base of the tower. A ticket allows you access during a specific time block only and are limited, so either turn up early or purchase online in advance.

• Menara KL

  phone: +603 2020 5444
  address: 2 Jalan Puncak
  KL Tower has a viewing deck at 276bm provides great city views, and you'll be a few metres higher than the Twin Towers since the tower is built on a hill (also, the twin towers observation deck is 100 m below at 170 m). For a free bonus, check out the wonderfully bombastic free film on the tower's construction, screened in a little cinema on the tower ground floor. There is free shuttle bus service from the main gate to the base of the tower, though number of seats in the bus is very limited. Around the tower are various attractions including pony rides, KL Animal Zone and a Malaysian cultural village exhibition. Tickets for these attractions can be purchased separately or as part of a combo with the KL Tower ticket.

• Aquaria KLCC

  phone: +60 3 2333 1888
  address: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jl Pinang
  A gigantic aquarium housing over 5,000 aquatic and terrestrial species. The aquarium has many displays including an underwater tunnel, interactive touch pools, exhibits of flora and fauna and multimedia kiosks. They also have feeding sessions throughout the day at specific exhibits, see their website for specific times.

• Badan Warisan Malaysia

  phone: +60 3 2144 9273
  address: 2 Jl Stoner
  A non-profit organisation for the conservation and promotion of Malaysia's heritage and has various exhibits and seminars about Malaysia and its history. Rumah Penghulu is a major attraction, a traditional Malay house constructed in the 1920s that was originally located in Kampung Sungai Kechil in Kedah. Tours of Rumah Penghulu are M-Sa at 11:00 & 15:00. There is also a garden containing over 50 native Malaysian plants, includes rare species.

• Petrosains

  phone: +60 3 2331 8181
  address: Lvl 4, Suria KLCC
  An exhibit of the science and technology behind the petroleum industry, mainly aimed for children and sponsored by the Petronas oil company. There are various science shows, interactive exhibits and simulation experiences throughout. Book tickets at least 30 minutes in advance, or even a few days earlier if you can. Can be very busy on weekends.

• Muzium Telekom

  phone: +60 32031 9966
  address: Jalan Gereja
  Small museum with a rather limited amount of antique telecom equipment on display.

• As Syakirin Mosque

After you have done all your shopping and partying in the Golden Triangle, you will probably be exhausted. Perhaps enjoy a spa treatment to relax or, if up for it, go for an adventure in one of the local parks. You'll also find Malaysia's largest indoor theme park here.

• Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

  phone: +60 3 2117 3118
  address: Levels 5 & 7, 1 Jl Imbi
  Malaysia's largest indoor theme park, located on the upper floors of the giant Berjaya Times Square mall and particularly notable for its hair-raising seven-story indoor roller coaster. The park is divided into two sections, one geared for small children, the other for those who want a little more excitement; one ticket gets you into both.

• KL Forest Eco Park

  phone: +60 3 2026 4741
  Being the last virgin tropical rainforest left in Kuala Lumpur, this is certainly not your typical urban park. If lucky you may even be able to spot some wildlife, including birds, monkeys, lizards and even the occasional snake. The trails are not that challenging but be sure to bring comfortable shoes, water and even some repellent can come in handy. A camping ground is also available for those wanting to camp under the stars.

• Craft Village @ Kompleks Kraf KL

  phone: +60 3 2164 9907
  address: Seksyen 63, Jl Conlay
  Part of a government-owned organisation which was set up to showcase Malaysian art and craft. You can create your own Malay art by having a dabble at batik drawing, wood carving and pottery making, all at a 'minimal fee'. While there you can also explore the museum, gift shop and café.

• Dewan Filharmonik PetronasThe home of the well-regarded Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra is nestled at the base of the Petronas Twin Towers, offering performances of classical music most Saturdays at 20:30 and Sundays at 15:00, with tickets starting at just RM25. Advance bookings are possible online. Note that a strict dress code applies: long sleeve batik or lounge suit for gala and evening performances, "smart casual" (no jeans, shorts, T-shirts, sneakers and slippers) for other performances.

• Diving @ Aquaria KLCC

  phone: +60 3 2333 1976
  address: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Complex, Jl Pinang
  Take a plunge (literally) and explore Aquaria KLCC with the resident aquatic animals. The Cage Rage package takes you underwater in the safety of a cage. Be sure to say hello to the sharks when down there. The Dive with Sharks package is definitely for who are more adventurous, where you can explore the underwater area without a cage and get up close to the aquatic life. You also get a certificate and t-shirt to remember your close encounter.

• KLCC ParkA kid-friendly urban park surrounded by a concrete jungle. It boasts a children's pool and playground, walking/jogging tracks, a bird sanctuary, sculptures and 66 species of palm trees. Check out the lake symphony fountains which spray water up into the air. During the evening the fountains are the centrepiece of a light and music show at 20:00, 21:00 and 21:45. Visitors are rigorously sent out at 10p.m.

• Pamper Zone

  phone: +60 3 2782 3800
  address: 181 Jl Bukit Bintang
  An impressive cluster of spas within Starhill Gallery, with services ranging from world class all day treatments (RM600), to affordable facials and one hour long full body massages (RM100).

Bukit Bintang is the main shopping area of the Golden Triangle with many of KL's most well-known malls. The main shopping streets are Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Imbi. KLCC has the popular Suria KLCC mall while the adjacent Jalan Ampang also has several shopping complexes.

Bukit Bintang

• Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

  address: 168 Jl Bukit Bintang
  This KL's latest luxury megamall is an anchor piece of the world-class urban development comprising two luxury residential towers, a corporate office. The mall has six distinctive precincts, Couture Pavilion, Bintang Circle, Gourmet_Emporium, Connection, Seventh Heaven and Home that contain approximately 450 stores. Most of the restaurants on the ground floor are western-themed and aimed at tourists, but there is a good range of Malaysian restaurants on the basement level and a large number of restaurants spread throughout the mall. There is pedestrian bridge that links the mall to KLCC.

• Berjaya Times Square

  address: 1 Jl Imbi
  It has 12 levels of retail with a total of 320,000 m² (3.5 million ft²). It is a middle-class shopping mall offering youth fashion targeted at the younger crowds. For entertainment, it has the largest indoor theme park in Malaysia on the 7th floor of the building. It also offers a 3D-Imax theatre on the top floor of the retail podium. there is a Cold Storage Supermarket at the lower ground floor.

• Fahrenheit 88

  address: 179 Jl Bukit Bintang
  of lettable space spread over 5 levels of zoned shopping space. There are designated zones for Japanese and Korean fashion consisting of an entire floor each.

• Lot 10

  address: Cnr Jl Bukit Bintang & Jl Sultan Ismail
  When opened in 1991, it was considered the Harrods-equivalent of Malaysia housing designer outlets like Aigner and Versace. Time has however taken a toll on this mall which boasts a green facade. Nowadays it is widely-reckoned as a middle-class retail destination as most outlets have shifted as a result of competition and degradation. Anchor tenants now include H&M and Japanese department store Isetan. If food is your thing, a cornucopia of Malaysia's best offerings can be found in the lower-ground floor food court, called Hutong.

• Plaza Low Yat

  address: 7 Jl Bintang
  A good place for computer hardware, game consoles and handphones. A "must visit" for the tech inclined. All IT Hypermart (4th floor) is a good one-stop shop, but there are dozens of specialist computing boutiques for the enthusiast. Do not always be fooled by the pricing as some unscrupulous sellers may have switched original components of devices with fakes. Verify before purchasing.

• Starhill Gallery

  address: 181 Jl Bukit Bintang
  Adjoining the JW Marriott Hotel. The nearest station to this mall is Monorail Bukit Bintang. Starhill is a literally an English translation of “Bukit Bintang”. An upscale, luxury retail mall that rivals Suria KLCC for designer goods, is worth a visit just to look at the different interior designs especially 'Feast' floor (Ground Floor). A must-visit for watch aficionados as the ‘Adorn’ floor (1st floor) houses the biggest selection of designer wrist-watch boutiques like, amongst others, Jaeger-Le Coultre, Roger Dubuis, Audemars Piguet, Breguet, Tag Heuer, Omega, Vacheron Constantin, IWC, Patek Philippe and Rolex, of course. Great if you have lots of cash to splurge. There is a Food Galore on the Lower Ground floor which renders an excellent culinary experience in a cosy setting that exudes grandeur.

• Sungei Wang Plaza

  address: Jl Bukit Bintang
  A popular place among local teenagers where fashion clothes, shoes, accessories and other trinkets and local designer clothes can be found with affordable price. A great place to buy cameras and watches (discounts are given for cash payments, although credit cards are accepted). Sungei Wang also hosts a concentration of tailors of men's and women's clothing. there is a Giant Supermarket at the Lower Ground floor.
• Other shopping malls in the Bukit Bintang area include BB Plaza, KL Plaza, a mini retail annexe known as Piccolo Galeria.

Jalan Ampang

• Suria KLCC

  address: Cnr Jl P Ramlee & Jl Ampang
  Suria KLCC is one of Malaysia's premier shopping destinations due to its location beneath the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. It is on 6 floors, with anchor tenants Isetan, Parkson, Kinokuniya, Tanjong Golden Village, Signatures Food Court, Marks & Spencer, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. Suria is the native Malaysian word for Sunshine. It houses mostly luxury and fashionable shops, as well as cafes, restaurants, a 12 screen cinema, a concert hall, an art gallery, and a Science Discovery Centre, over 6 floors.

• Avenue K

  address: 156 Jl Ampang
  Opposite Kuala Lumpur City Centre. With its bold tagline, "style has a new address", the complex is a hip shopping haven complimented by a classy, city-living address, "K Residence". Avenue K aims to create a "shopping culture, where lifestyle, aesthetic and social elements converge." It boasts internationally acclaimed fashion brands.

Finding a place to eat in the Golden Triangle is hard, simply because you are spoilt for choice. Options range from the cheapest local street food, all the way up to some of the most expensive restaurants within the entire city. Another alternative is to visit one of the many shopping mall food courts, which typically contain both local and international fare.

Malaysian

Budget

Budget restaurants, and "street stalls" are located almost everywhere in town, and these are good places to try the "real" Malaysian food, though hygiene can be sometimes an issue.

• Lot 10 Hutong

  address: Cnr Jl Bukit Bintang & Jl Sultan Ismail
  This shopping mall in the Golden Triangle has a collection of 20 street vendors who were invited to relocate in the food court. Provides an excellent spread of Malaysian food in hygienic and air-conditioned food court comfort at prices that are only slightly above those outdoors. Many famous Chinese style and KL-based foods are served in this food court.
• Sungai Wang Food court, on top floor of Sungai Wang, one of the cheapest food courts in the area, big selection of Chinese rice dishes, plus other stalls selling Chinese, Indian and vegetarian dishes.
• Signatures Food Court, 2nd Floor, Suria KLCC - Very good selection of Malaysian specialities from throughout the country. During lunchtime very popular with the employees of the Petronas Tower.

• Laksa ShackSecond Floor Suria KLCC - Specializes in nothing but the many forms of the Malaysian laksa noodle (all RM8.60), but the sour Assam Laksa is usually the top seller.

• Nasi Kandar Pelita

  phone: +60 3 2162 5532
  address: 149 Jl Ampang
  A huge outlet of Malaysia's largest nasi kandar chain, with long queues snaking out at lunchtime. Ordering is easy, just choose and point, but be sure to ask for their speciality kuah campur (mixed gravy), meaning that you get half a dozen curry sauces splashed on top. Air-con available upstairs. By Malaysian Mamak restaurant standards, having a meal here is more expensive than having a similar meal elsewhere. Worth it for the wide choices of food, the cleanliness and the quality, however.

Mid-range

• Asian Flavours Food Court, 4th Floor, Suria KLCC - A collection of restaurants offering both Malaysian and international fare. Among them are:

• Madam Kwan's, Lot 420/421, Fourth Floor, Suria KLCC - Very popular restaurant with excellent local fare in a pleasant ambience. Try the nasi lemak (RM12.80) or the meltingly smooth beef rendang (RM6.80), and wash it down with a bowl of sweet green chendol (RM5.50). Get there early to beat the queues.

Splurge

• Bijan3 Jln Ceylon - Modern-styled décor in a home-like setting with outdoor verandah-garden compliments the well prepared (though perhaps slightly overpriced) Malaysian food. Classy patrons and impeccable service however make it worth a try. Around 60-90RM per adult.

• Seri AngkasaAtop KL Tower - A revolving restaurant that has a good reputation, but is (inevitably) fairly steeply priced. The RM65 lunch buffet is comparatively good value. (RM40-45 for afternoon tea, RM140 for dinner accompanied by piano either 18:00-21:00 or 21:00-23:00 slot, reservations almost essential for evenings)

Chinese

Budget

• Jalan Alor Food Stalls

  address: Jalan Alor
  In the heart of KL and within walking distance from the shopping district of Bukit Bintang, Jalan Alor has become one of the most popular food streets in KL. Running the length of the street is row after row of restaurants and stalls, focusing on Malay, Chinese and Thai food. You will notice that touts frequent the front of many restaurant to entice you in, but don't let that factor where you dine. Restaurants towards the western end of the street tend to be cheaper and also lack touts. Be careful walking along this street as it is also open to traffic. Despite being somewhat touristy, it is still an excellent place to eat if you hunt out a good restaurant.

• Glutton Street Market

  address: Jalan Sayur
  Another street full of food stalls similar to Jalan Alor, but a lot less touristy and more authentic.

• Dharma Realm Monastery CanteenGreat vegetarian food prepared by volunteers. Earnings are used to maintain the temple. A favourite among local office workers. Not that popular with tourists as of 2019.

• Super Noodle House

  phone: +60 3-21424729
  address: LG-001, Lower Ground, Sungai Wang Shopping Centre, Jalan Sultan Ismail
  Location: 3°8'41.39"N; 101°42'41.21"E - One of the best Hong Kong-style restaurants in KL. Menu includes porridge, wantan mee or chicken rice. Good food with reasonable pricing.

Mid range

• Hakka Restaurant, 6 Jalan Kia Peng. Tel: +60 3-21431907 or +60 3-21431908 - In business for more than 40 years. Most dishes, even though listed as small, are quite large with two small main courses being more than enough for two people. Dishes cost RM20 up to RM150.

• Overseas restaurant

  phone: +60 3-21449911
  address: 84-88 Jl Imbi
  A popular Chinese restaurant attracting a clientele ranging from local billionaires to middle class families. Food is outstanding and if you care to take a little time and book a day or two earlier you can order any number of special dishes that are typically but not necessarily more expensive. Service is haphazard and as prices are cheap, a discrete tip to one of the Captains and the waitress however, will change everything. Favorite dishes here include the 'Har Lok" which are large river prawns cooked in a thick soya based sauce, the suckling pig sandwich and the asam fish.

Indian

• Passage Thru' India

  phone: +60 3 2145 0366
  address: 4 Jl Delima (several other locations through Malaysia)
  An excellent Indian restaurant that offers both northern and southern Indian cuisine. Favorites here include the Chicken Beriyani, Chicken Tandoori, Chukka Mutton, Fried Fish, Malabar Avial and the slightly expensive but very tasty PTI Prawn masala.

• Restoran GaneshA fantastic place, Indian food that you don't get at most places, served on banana leaves.

Others

Budget

• Uncle Jack Fried Chicken

  address: Sungei Wang Plaza Jl Bukit Bintang
  set 1. one piece of chicken with chicken rice and a drink . Ice cream cone is just 0.50c

Mid-range

• Prego @ The Westin Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3 2773 8338
  address: Ground Floor, 199, Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur
  Prego serves tasty regional pastas, deliciously oven-baked pizzas and the latest in creative Italian cuisine.
• Kim Gary Beyond, B1F, Avenue K (KLCC LRT) - Popular Hong Kong chain serving up very modern Chinese fare. The locals' favorite is the rather non-Chinese baked rice with cheese (from RM11.90), but how about some borsht, a plate of spicy noodles "Typhoon Shelter" style and a cup of boiled Coke with ginger. Set meals for RM10-20.

• Sahara Tent

  phone: +60 3-21448310
  address: 87 Jalan Berangan, off Jalan Bukit Bintang
  Large, authentic and popular Middle Eastern eatery in Ain Arabia, KL's Little Arabia. The giant mezze platter (RM29) will leave two stuffed and a shisha water pipe at RM10 tops off the meal nicely.
• Tarbush, 138 Jln Bukit Bintang, Tel: +60 3-21428558; LG 16, Starhill Gallery, Tel: +60 3-21446393; and Lot 19, 2nd Floor Food Court, Suria KLCC - One of the most popular Lebanese/Middle Eastern restaurant. Good food and beautiful decor.

• Izzi

  phone: +60 3-21414111
  address: Jalan Sultan Ismail
  The four-floor Izzi Restaurant has pizza, pasta, salad, steak, hainan chicken, tom yam. Drink: frozen coffee, spirits, beers, wine. Upscale atmosphere. Pizza runs about RM20. Almost looks more like a lounge than a restaurant. Free Wi-Fi.

• Twenty One Bar and KitchenStylish bar and restaurant. Great contemporary food. The bar is very popular at night. Affordable lunch deals at RM30. Mains RM30-60.

Splurge

• EEST @ The Westin Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3 2773 8338
  address: Level 1, 199, Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur
  EEST is a prominent Asian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Savour the blend of authentic flavours specially selected from Asian cultures right here in Kuala Lumpur. Indulge in Asian flavours at EEST with a selection of Asian cuisine to delight your palate.

• Bistro de Paris

  phone: +60 3-21418005
  address: 18-1 Jalan P. Ramlee.
  The French dining experience from aperitif to digestif, ranging from steak frites to crême brulée. Open daily from 11:00 until late. Lunch prix fixe at RM15.95, dinner prix fixe at RM69.95.

• El Cerdo

  phone: +60 3-21450511
  address: 43-45 Changkat Bukit Bintang
  German-run eatery with kitschy pig-themed decor specializing in all things pork, particularly Spanish treats like jamón serrano and whole suckling pig, complete with ceremonial plate-breaking. Organic lamb ribs are excellent. Portions are generous and quality is excellent. The place is usually packed and noisy, so book ahead (esp. on weekends).

• Neroteca

  phone: +60 3-20700530
  address: 8 Lorong Ceylon
  Italian restaurant and deli, specialized in pork meat. They serve great Italian hearty food with one of the best selection of Italian cured meats and cheeses in South-East Asia, also for take away. Open from 09:30 (Tuesdays from 15:00) until 00:00.

• Wasabi Bistro

  phone: +60 3-21630968
  address: B1F Mandarin Oriental Hotel
  Acceptable, Japanese with modern twists, or without, depending on how you navigate the menu. Surprisingly generous portions for a restaurant of this calibre, figure on well over RM100/head for a full meal. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

The Golden Triangle is the party heart of KL. Here, you'll find many of the city's entertainment spots, whether they're dance clubs, karaoke joints or just watering holes. The main party drag is Changkat Bukit Bintang, whereas the area between Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Imbi are better known for its Chinese-style hostess nightclubs. Most five-star hotels also have clubs and bars.
The area also has its fair share of coffee places, mostly belonging to the usual international or local chains. However, Malaysians usually like to head to "Mamak stalls" to wind down after a night of partying. These can be found almost everywhere, especially where there are many clubs, and you can get teh tarik and other warm bevearage and food like rot canai at these stalls.

Jalan P. Ramlee and environs

• Beach Club

  phone: +60 32161 6666
  address: 924 Jalan P Ramlee
  Open-air club done up to look like a cheap beachside bar, this is the city's most infamous meat market and pickup joint. The club advertises itself as "Voted Best Bar in Asia" and is busy most nights. Popular with tourists and the well-dressed middle-aged crowd. Weekends often have great live bands but there may be DJs. Frequented by many girls of the night that are after money; not a good place for female tourists. RM50 for men, RM40 for women include 2 drinks.

• Luna Bar

  phone: +60 32332 7777
  Menara PanGlobal 34F, Jalan Punchak (off Jl P. Ramlee). - Super-chic breezy rooftop bar with a pool in the middle and the best night views in town. Show up early to grab a romantic windowside niche. Drinks RM20 and up, cover charge of RM50 (incl. one drink) may apply on weekends after 21:30.
• Rum Jungle, 1 Jalan Pinang (corner of Jalan P Ramlee & Jalan Pinang) - One of the newest clubs in KL, features a spectacular outdoor-bar style area, with great music and hot bar maids.
• Poppy Garden, Jalan P Ramlee (Opposite Rum Jungle) - Poppy Garden plays RnB & Hip Hip on Friday nights. A club reserved for younger Asian tourists and locals.

Bukit Bintang

• Qba Latin Bar & Grill

  phone: +60 3 2773 8338
  address: The Westin Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Bukit Bintang
  Qba Latin Bar & Grill the only steak restaurant with Latin American flavours in Kuala Lumpur. It’s where you can tuck into imported beef grilled to perfection, classic tapas, signature Mojitos and classic wines. A modern bar with most nights live latin music. Very much upstyle and expensive. Attracts mainly the guests from the 5-star hotels around Bukit Bintang and Imbi.

• Twenty One Kitchen and Bar

  address: 20-1 Changkat Bukit Bintang
  Stylish bar and restaurant. Always packed on weekends but also very popular on other nights. Two floors.

• Pinchos Tapas Bar

  phone: +60 3-2145 8482
  address: Changkat Bukit Bintang
  Pinchos is a great place to meet and mingle over a pitcher of their sangria and plates of their delicious tapas. In the evenings, Pinchos is one of the hottest places to be. After midnight, it really kicks off as patrons try to squeeze in to the restaurant-bar that’s already bursting at the seams. Expect to guzzle down one of their Spanish drinks like the Estrella Damm, the beer of Barcelona or El Gaitero, a Spanish cider while listening to the Latin music and lively atmosphere. Every night feels like a real fiesta at Pinchos.

• Palate Palette Restaurant & Bar

  phone: +60 3 2142 2148
  address: 21 Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Bukit Ceylon
  This is a gem of a place, hidden in a backstreet in the heart of KL. A favourite amongst artists, musicians, the creative and eclectic, it's the soulful vibe, 10 toilet door locks and free curry popcorn that gets to you. Try the Oh Boi house cocktail, and check out their film and party nights which happen whenever they feel like it.

• Bar Italia

  phone: +60 3 21444499
  address: 29 Jalan Berangan
  This wonderfully designed bar is the brainchild of Paulo Guiati who started Nerovivo and Neroteca. Great concept with excellent choice of wines. Food is authentic Italian but can be erratic along with the service. Busy and noisy on weekends when reservationa are essential. Good following among local expats.

Others

• Sky Bar

  address: Traders Hotel
  Incredible bar with great views over the city and the Twin Towers.Located on the top floor of the Traders Hotel, it is built around the Hotel swimming pool. Loud techno music late at night. Best place to be around sunset. be prepared to pay 5 star hotel prices. One of the best places in town before dinner.

• Hakka Republic Wine Bar & Bistro

  phone: +60 3 2078 9908
  address: 2nd Flr, Menara Hap Seng, 1-3 Jalan P.Ramlee
  Chinese themed bar, an interesting mix of Asian and western music and long wine list. Increasingly popular bar because of safe location on 2nd floor with convenient parking in 2 brightly lit basements.Attracts a wide range of customers including local celebrities, tycoons and office workers.

• Heli Lounge

  phone: +60 32110 5034
  address: Menara KH, Level 37
  Amazing location on a helipad high above the city with amazing views.

Take a stroll around the Golden Triangle and you will quickly realise the district is littered with mid-range and high-end hotels. Prices are usually fairly competitive, so be sure to shop around for the best deal. Those on a shoestring budget will find a few budget options available, but are limited to guesthouses and hostels.

Budget

• Rainforest Bed & Breakfast

  phone: +60 3 2145 3525
  address: 27 Jl Mesui
  Boutique budget hotel with dorm bed and private rooms. Beautiful building with tasteful, rainforest-themed decorations. Clean and air-conditioned dorms and rooms with key card entry and Wi-Fi available. Several common rooms are available with televisions and small, covered porches with couches on the upper floors.

• Red Palm

  phone: +60 3 2143 1279
  address: 5 Tengkat Tong Shin
  A small hostel in a historical 2-storey building with friendly hosts. Basic but clean rooms upstairs and offers broadband Internet and a hang-out lounge downstairs. There is a small bbq area in front of the house. Downside is there is only 1 combo bathroom shared by all hostel occupants. Free Wi-Fi and 2 computers available.

• Sunshine Bedz

  phone: +60 3 2143 5050
  address: 65B Jl Sultan Ismail
  A small and friendly family run hostel with modern but basic facilities. Breakfast is included in the price and free Wi-Fi/computers also available.

• Ancasa Express @ Pudu

  phone: +60 3 2072 2688
  address: 4th floor Pudusentral Terminal
  All rooms equipped with air-conditioning, telephone, private toilet and bath. Some of its facilities and services are cafe, transit lounge, wake-up call, parking, airport and city transfers. Friendly staff, but hot water is not always working well.

• Paper Plane Hostel

  phone: +60 3 2110 1676
  address: 15, Jalan Sin Chew Kee, Bukit Bintang
  A clean hostel with plenty of shower stalls, laundry service, and friendly workers at the front desk available 24/7.

• Dorms KL 2

  address: 20-102, Jalan Pudu Lama
  A huge place with lots of dorms and rooms, lots of travelers all the time, and good prices.

Mid-range

• Bintang Garden Hotel

  phone: +60 321431048
  address: 24 Jl Bukit Bintang
  51 air-con small rooms with free Wi-Fi Internet, hot water, cable TV (very bad signaldon't even bother taking the remote from the lobby). Well situated, but small rooms with bad lighting, a few tiny bed bugs. Don't trust the online reservation system to tell you how many rooms are available.

• Bintang Warisan Hotel

  phone: +60 3-21488111
  68 Jl Bukit Bintang. Hotel that offers traditional look, feel and service. Rooms from RM139.

• Citin Pudu Hotel Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3 2031 7777
  address: 38 Jl Pudu
  Opposite the main bus terminal, walking distance to Chinatown and a short walk to Bukit Bintang. Rooms are cozy with all the expected modcons - 32" LCD flat screen TV, air-condition, an in-room safe, key card locking system and an ensuite bathroom. The Cafe has an internet station, dishes up a good buffet breakfast and has a small but good selection of local dishes. Rates are very reasonable from RM110 onwards (rates may vary). Be on the lookout for bedbugs.

• Concorde

  phone: +60 3 2144 2200
  address: 2 Jl Sultan Ismail
  A decent mid-range hotel that is fairly good value with all the typical amenities you would expect, including a pool. The rooms in the Premier wing are a bit more expensive than the regular rooms but they offer services and amenities comparable to hotels of a higher category for a remarkably lower price. Wi-Fi and Breakfast included in the stay. The Hard Rock Cafe is downstairs.

• Hotel Orkid Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3-2144 8033
  address: 300 Jl Pudu
  A great choice if you're looking for clean, basic rooms in a reasonable location. It has a breakfast lounge and a travel desk, and the usual services like room service, wake-up call, and business services. Rates start at RM86. There are two Hotel Orkids on the same street (they are the same company with the same logo). If you make a reservation online, it will not be valid at the 'Hotel Orkid Inn', and the company will charge the full room rate to your credit card. Make sure you find the correct one!

• Seasons' ViewJl Alor - In the middle of the hustle and bustle of hawker street Jalan Alor, offering basic rooms starting at RM75.

• Sungei Wang Hotel

  phone: +60 3-2148 5255
  address: 74-76, Jl Bukit Bintang
  Offers comfortable rooms, laundry service and free parking; also has a restaurant that serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. From RM 103.

• Swiss Garden Residences

  phone: +60 3 2141 3333
  address: 117 Jl Pudu, 55100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  Embracing 478 serviced apartments and offering a variety of one bedroom, two bedroom apartment suites and four bedroom penthouse suites.

• The Malaysia Hotel

  phone: +60 3-2144 7733
  address: 67-69 Jl Bukit Bintang
  53 air-conditioned rooms with Internet connection, mini-bar, and shower with bathtub. Some of its amenities include 24-hour reception & customer service desk, IDD telephone, and a foot reflexology centre.

Splurge

There are not many places in the world, where 5-star-hotels are so competitively priced. So why not pamper yourself and go for the top while being in this city?

• Ascott Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3 2142-6868
  address: No 9 Jalan Pinang
  The residence is in the Central Business District of the city and has 221 apartments that come fully-furnished with a home entertainment system, kitchen and broadband Internet access.

• Berjaya Times Square Hotel

  phone: +60 3-21178000
  address: 1, Jl Imbi
  In the mammoth Berjaya Times Square shopping mall complex. Has a large conference centre.

• Dorsett Regency Hotel Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3 2715 1000
  address: 172 Jl Imbi
  Fully A/C rooms with 32" LCD TV, satellite channels, in-house movies, free internet connection, and mini-bar. Spa, lounge by the pool.

• The Federal

  phone: +60 321489166
  address: 35 Jl Bukit Bintang, 55100
  Fully air-conditioned rooms, all equipped with cable and satellite television and daily supply of newspaper. Facilities and services are Bintang Revolving Restaurant, The Taj Restaurant and The Verandah.

• Hotel Sabrina

  phone: +60 3 2142 0255
  address: No. 83, Jl Bukit Bintang

• Hotel Maya

  phone: +60 3 2711 8866
  address: 138 Jl. Ampang 50450
  All rooms have telephone system with voicemail, flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Internet with wifi access, library in the Sky Lounge.

• Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3-21470088
  address: Jl Sultan Ismail
  Offers daily scheduled shuttle service to Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) and Aquaria KLCC.

• Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur

  phone: +60 3-21174888
  address: 160 Jl Bukit Bintang
  468 guestrooms including 30 suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide sweeping views of the city skyline. Hotel facilities include four restaurants and bars, spa and fitness centre, the Executive Club. Guests on the Executive Club floor are accorded signature amenities and exclusive privileges that include the service of a personal butler. Location is excellent with good access to Sungei Wang Shopping complex, the Pavilion and Starhill. The Grand Millennium has an excellent pork-free Chinese restaurant and an excellent coffee house both of which boast one of the best balanced wine lists in town.

• Hotel Istana

  phone: +60 3 2141 9988
  address: 73 Jalan Raja Chulan
  The lobby is worth a visit in itself but this may not be enough to warrant a stay. It has all the facilities you would expect from a luxury hotel but in dire need of a good refurbishment.

• JW Marriott

  phone: +60 3-27159000
  address: 183 Jl Bukit Bintang
  Marriott's flagship hotel in Kuala Lumpur, decorated in a Malaysian style and conveniently located on Jalan Bukit Bintang near the shopping district. Connected to the posh Starhill Gallery and just directly opposite Pavilion shopping mall. The Marriott has an outstanding Shanghainese restaurant.

• Pavilion Residences Apartments

  phone: +60 18-5813624
  address: 183 Jl Bukit Bintang
  Pavilion Residences Kuala Lumpur is a 5-star property that offers luxury apartment style accommodation. Prices start from RM 1,740 per night with a minimum 4 night stay for a luxury three bedroom apartment. Pavilion Residences is located in Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur and is situated on top of the Pavilion Shopping Mall.

• Meliá

  phone: +60 3-21428333
  address: 16 Jl Imbi
  Solid if unremarkable four-star hotel opposite Berjaya Time Square and with a Monorail station next door. "Deluxe" rooms are equipped with not just broadband access, but an entire PC! Regular rates from RM200 for two with breakfast. Book online through their webpage to get the best discounts.

• Westin

  phone: +60 3 2731-8333
  address: 199 Jl Bukit Bintang
  Extremely modern and well-equipped but quite lacking in identity, with nothing but the view to remind you that you're in Malaysia. Great spacious rooms with large bathrooms. Free Internet (Wi-Fi) available in the lobby and adjoining areas. Excellent gym and staffed Kids Club.

• Shangri-La

  phone: +60 3-20322388
  address: 11 Jalan Sultan Ismail
  Started in the early 1980s, it has been kept up to date with the owners continually reinvesting in the property. Internet is free in the room and the hotel. The restaurants are generally good with the Chinese restaurant actually improving over the years and Zipangu setting some new trends for Japanese dining. The Lobby lounge which sadly has lost its classic look is still the lounge in Kuala Lumpur to enjoy an afternoon tea. The Lafite restaurant is now home to Damon Campbell who has a 'technological' take on many classic dishes.

• Ritz Carlton

  address: 168, Jalan Imbi
  This hotel and residence is connected to Starhill Gallery and hosts the Spa Village, one of the best in Malaysia. All rooms have 24-hr butler service and most of them have access to an executive lounge with free Internet access and drinks/hors d'oeuvres. For a Ritz the rooms are downright frumpy, but service is good and it IS cheap for a Ritz Carlton. Internet rates from RM380.

• Prince

  phone: +60 3-21708888
  address: 4 Jalan Conlay
  Large modern hotel and service apartment complex packed with restaurants, convenience store, spa, gym, pool, etc. Internet rates from RM300 with breakfast.

• Zon All Suites

  phone: +60 3-2164 8000
  address: 161-D, Jalan Ampang, 50450, Wilayah Persekutuan
  184 suites, all equipped with Air-conditioning, Cable TV and Internet connectivity. Some of its facilities and services are outdoor swimming pool, gym, Jacuzzi, and sauna.

KLCC and Jalan Ampang

• Mandarin Oriental

  phone: +60 3 2380 8888
  address: Jl Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre
  In KLCC, this hotel is primarily for business travellers, but tourists will be well accommodated for. The restaurants within the hotel are among the best (and most expensive) in Kuala Lumpur. There is also an infinity pool looking over KLCC park.

• MayaJl. Ampang between Petronas Towers (Putra KLCC) monorail (Bukit Nanas). Stylish hotel with spa and amazing view from the loung on the 14th floor. Just across the street from Zouk

• Renaissance

  phone: +60 3-21622233
  Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang. - Five-star hotel at the edge of the Golden Triangle, accessible by monorail (Monorail: Bukit Nanas) and LRT (Putra Line: Dang Wangi). The East Wing ("Superior" rooms) is newer and more modern, while the West Wing ("Deluxe" rooms) are older. Rates from RM250.

• Royal Chulan

  phone: +60 3 2688 9688
  Brimming with remnants of Malaysia’s storied past and boasting a vivid parade of contemporary treats, The Royale Chulan is truly a place where heritage meets modern, business-friendly luxuries. From the high-pitched tiled roofs to the expansive contoured courtyard, the hotel carries an elegance and ambience one can easily appreciate. It offers a selection of five-star guestrooms that come inclusive with an impressive array of modern amenities and lavish fixtures.

• Traders Hotel

  phone: +60 3 2332 9888
  address: Jl Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre
  Sister hotel to the Shangri-La, overlooking KLCC and the Petronas Towers. View from the open air bar and pool/spa complex at the top is stunning and food is exceptional. Rooms are very well appointed, and rates among the best of the top hotels in KL. Trader's club upgrade entitles you to free drinks, snacks and Internet broadband. A buggy service to Suria KLCC is also available.

• Yoshi Connection

  phone: +60 3 2161 5000
  address: Shop C21F, Suria KLCC, Cnr Jl P Ramlee & Jl Ampang
  A business centre that offers good internet speeds along with print, scan and fax facilities. Prices are a little more expensive than the typical internet cafe.

Religious services

• St. John's CathedralA historic cathedral and the seat of the archbishop.

Now you have visited modern Kuala Lumpur, head towards Chinatown in the City Centre to have a glimpse of the city's colonial past. The area is easily reached either by a leisurely walk from Bukit Bintang or even the free GO-KL bus. After you could then cross the Klang River and visit the colonial administrative area. Alternatively, consider heading to Chow Kit and Kampung Baru. Here you can experience a slice of local life, visit markets and sample some traditional malay food in the last Malay village within Kuala Lumpur.