Kuala Lumpur, Federal administrative division in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Description
Kuala Lumpur is a federal administrative territory in Malaysia covering a dense urban center with tower blocks, older colonial buildings and sprawling residential neighborhoods spread across multiple districts. The streets are organized by different systems, some following a grid pattern while others wind along the topography of hills and rivers.
History
The settlement began as a tin mining camp in the 19th century, where traders and workers gathered at the confluence of two rivers. After the country's independence, it was separated from the surrounding province in 1974 to serve as a directly administered federal capital.
Culture
In the public parks and markets across the city, daily life blends Malay, Chinese and Indian communities, each maintaining their own festivals, food stalls and neighborhood routines. The multilingual street signs and the mixed prayer times in different districts show how these groups coexist and preserve their customs.
Practical
The city is divided into eleven districts, each with different characters ranging from older quarters with lower buildings to newer business areas with high rises. Visitors often notice that temperatures and air quality can shift depending on the time of day and proximity to green spaces.
Did you know?
The territory covers a relatively small area of less than 250 square kilometers yet contains a sizeable portion of the nation's economic activity. The mayor is appointed by the prime minister rather than elected by residents, which sets it apart in governance from other Malaysian cities.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Malaysia).
Photo license: CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo license: CC BY 2.0
Photo license: CC BY-SA 2.5
Train stations from around the world have been selected for their noteworthy architecture. These buildings span different periods and show various styles, from neorenaissance to modern designs. Some feature domes, glass structures, sculptures, and frescoes, while others use steel and glass in...
Merdeka 118
898 m
Petronas Towers
2.1 km
Batu Caves
10.1 km
The Exchange 106
2.7 km
Kuala Lumpur Tower
1.1 km
National Stadium, Bukit Jalil
10.4 km
Batu Caves Murugan Statue
10.1 km
Independence Square
213 m
National Monument
1.3 km
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
2 km
Sultan Abdul Samad Building
131 m
Berjaya Times Square
1.8 km
Istana Negara, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim
3.8 km
Saloma Link
2.1 km
Victoria Institution
1.3 km
Aquaria KLCC
2.1 km
Stadium Merdeka
1.1 km
Thean Hou Temple
3 km
Sri Mahamariamman Temple
502 m
National Mosque of Malaysia
763 m
Kwai Chai Hong
744 m
Tower M
2.7 km
Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque
147 m
Istana Negara, Jalan Istana
1.7 km
National Zoo of Malaysia
9.8 km
Carcosa Seri Negara
1.7 km
National Museum of Malaysia
1.4 km
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
963 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes