About Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, called KL by locals, is Malaysia's federal capital and largest city at 6.5 million (city-proper population of 1.8 million). Kuala Lumpur is a cultural melting pot with some of the world's cheapest 5-star hotels, impressive shopping districts, food from all parts of the world, and natural wonders within day-trip distance.

Source: Wikipedia

Essential Information

Currency

Malaysian ringgit (MYR)

Symbol: RM

Language

English

Also: Malay

Phone Code

+60

International dialing code for Malaysia

Driving

Drive on the left

Standard for Malaysia

Region

Asia

South-Eastern Asia

Connectivity

Internet cafés are quite plentiful in Kuala Lumpur and you can find them in most shopping centres. If you have your own laptop,Maxis'WLAN service is the best deal around, a prepaid RM15 card gets you unlimited use for 2 weeks. Many hotels provide free internet access and connections. Free Wi-Fi is also available in many cafes, restaurants and shopping centres. A few examples:

How to Get to Kuala Lumpur

Transportation options and arrival information

Malaysia's transportation systems function well, by regional standards. Planes, trains, buses, and taxis are linked in a system conceived and constructed by, if not an order-loving person, at least a dedicated amateur. The planners' aims are an ultra-modern, chic, European-style system that are a far cry from the city's humble barrio beginnings. The reality is a sound B+ with still a long way to go before hitting the top. A bewildering jumble of initials and acronyms assault any first time journ

Getting Around Kuala Lumpur

Local transportation and navigation tips

Kuala Lumpur's public transport system is fairly efficient and convenient, but much room for improvement lies in its integration. The city suffers from paralysing traffic jams throughout the day. Consider combining various methods of public transport to avoid this.

Safety in Kuala Lumpur

Very High Safety (Global Peace Index: 1.471)

About the Global Peace Index: Global Peace Index measures peacefulness on a scale of 1 (most peaceful) to 5 (least peaceful)

Crime is not rampant in Kuala Lumpur. The perception of crime is high, but the Malaysian police have managed to reduce crime significantly in and around urban Kuala Lumpur. Reports of violent crime against foreigners are uncommon but instances of pickpocketing and bag snatching have risen.

Source: Institute for Economics & Peace (2022)

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Accommodation tips and recommendations

Budget accommodation can be found everywhere; dormitory beds can cost as little as RM25 per night. Find the cheap ones online if cost is an issue. Increasingly, newer & better ones are opening in theJalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman/Chow Kit, Jalan Ipohareas, the so-called growth areas in the city centre. If you are willing to take the 10-minute LRT to the main attractions, then hotels can be found for as little as RM49 per night (sometimes below) with free Wi-Fi. Another area with low-cost accommodatio