The time for Malaysians to display their patriotism and take a moment to appreciate all that their nation stands for draws ever closer. As droves of locals (and even foreigners) can be found making plans to spend the National Day holidays away from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of Kuala Lumpur, it can be common to see people immediately leaving KL once those long breaks from work and school arrive.
It’s worth mentioning that there is just as much to see, do and experience within the capital city (if you can brave the crowds).
This National Day, consider skipping the long outstation drive to the other (possibly quieter) parts of Malaysia and try spending this National Day in KL for a change.
You and your family may just be glad you did. Here are some of the things you may be able to look forward to.
Explore the great outdoors
Have you ever explored the massive natural landmarks scattered throughout KL? Local tourist spots such as natural attractions famous for interesting formations and can be found in many spots in the city. If you’re the adventurous type and don’t want to be locked up in a hotel during your holidays then why not see what nature has here?
Many locals (and even foreigners) would have likely heard of Batu Caves by now. Surprisingly, there are a great number of people who have lived in KL their entire lives but never set foot in the famous place of worship. As a colossal limestone hill that comprises a series of caves and cave temples in Gombak, Batu Caves features a gigantic, grand, golden statue at the mouth of its entrance and really long flights of stairs that lead to the starting point of the formation. If you can survive the epic climb, you’ll be greeted by droves of intricate temple details like statues of different shapes and sizes as well as a pathway into the many chambers of the many caves. You could make Batu Caves part of your trail around KL during the holidays. Drop by on your way to the KLCC skybridge nearby.
You could also head down to the Bird Park which is a gated 20.9-acre public aviary in the heart of the scenic Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens. This attraction celebrates the beauty of nature and receives an annual average of 200,000 visitors. The park is home to approximately 200 different species of over 3,000 local and foreign birds.
Go on a food frenzy
Planning to spend the entire holiday enjoying Malaysia’s many signature dishes? You don’t necessarily have to leave KL to experience a full range of local food. If you feel like having something that’s a little on the fancy side, KL hosts a wide range of classy diners with grand menu selections. There’s Fuego @ Troika Sky Dining where you can enjoy your meal with a view of the city skyline or Marini’s on 57 where you can get up close and personal with the Petronas Twin Towers. Take note that the restaurants mentioned here may or may not be halal so Muslim diners please double check.
If you’re looking for the nitty gritty of the local food scene, KL has a huge network of hidden gems and small alleyways that are home to some of the most legendary dishes known to any local or foreigner. You can find scrumptious Indian style choices like Gandhi’s Vegetarian restaurant in Brickfields featuring faux-meat delicacies like fish curry, burnt fish, and butter chicken or head on over to the Motorcycle Stall on Petaling Street which specializes in the sweet and savory dessert; Apam Balik.
Visit the wonders of KL
If you’re feeling extra patriotic, then why not spend the holiday visiting (or if you’ve been to these before, re-visiting) some of the national wonders that KL has to offer? World-renowned projects like the Petronas Twin Towers and the Menara KL Tower remain some of the greatest structural achievements of the nation. Take a few hours to appreciate the magnificent view of the towering skyscrapers or spend some time shopping and eating around the area or inside the Suria KLCC mall.
Aside from that, a number of other tourist destinations with striking designs can be found within Kuala Lumpur such as the National Museum where you learn about Malaysia’s rich history or Istana Negara (considered one of our most beloved national landmarks). The National Visual Arts Gallery and the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery are also great places of interest, especially for lovers of visual art.
At last, Roomz would like to wish everyone Happy Merdeka Day. Sayangi Malaysia!
