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Most tourists stop at Petronas and Bukit Bintang. These three places show you the real Kuala Lumpur: its culture, history and communities.
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1. Thean Hou Temple (Mazu Temple)
A beautiful Chinese temple on Robson Heights, dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess and protector of sailors. The Hainanese community began building it in 1981. It was completed in 1987 and opened in 1989, blending traditional Chinese style with modern techniques. Lunar New Year and the Lantern Festival are celebrated here in a big way, with workshops in calligraphy and tea ceremonies.
Try the fortune sticks: shake the cup until one stick falls out, note its number, then pick the matching paper slip. Our family got 26 and 32.
2. Little India (Brickfields)
Brickfields grew in British colonial times, when Tamil and Sri Lankan workers came to work on the railways and in brick factories. Today you'll find Hindu temples, mosques and churches side by side, a lovely picture of religious harmony, along with saree shops, spices, jewellery and street food.
Family tip: our elders didn't take to local food, so we stocked up at an Indian store on ready-to-eat meals: aloo rassa, sarson ka saag, lemon rice, jeera rice and dal. They saved the trip!
3. Jalan Petaling (Petaling Street)
Part of KL's Chinatown, with roots in the mid-19th century. Today it's famous for hawker stalls, local food and colourful vibes. Look out for:
- Mangosteen and lychee: lychee was about 16 RM a kilo.
- Durian chocolate, if you're brave.
On the way you'll see Merdeka 118, the world's second-tallest building.
More: 3 days in Kuala Lumpur · Batu Caves.
FAQs
Is there Indian food in Kuala Lumpur?
Yes. Little India (Brickfields) has Indian restaurants and stores, including ready-to-eat packs like aloo rassa, sarson ka saag and jeera rice.
TAGS: KUALA LUMPUR · THEAN HOU TEMPLE · LITTLE INDIA · BRICKFIELDS · PETALING STREET
💬 Questions & answers
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Prashant & Sunaina
A travel couple from Pune with Kashmiri Pandit × Maharashtrian roots, 8+ countries and counting. Every rupee shared.
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