Tours & Activities in Kuala Lumpur
Important: please read the description to understand what you can expect out of the tour, and how to make the most out of it. Thank you! 🙂
__________________________________________________________
Selamat datang (welcome)!
Join me on this fantastic introductory day tour of Kuala Lumpur (KL), the capital city and very much the beating heart of Malaysia!
There is so much richness and diversity wherever you walk around KL, whether it'd be history, culture, food, main attractions, shopping, nature... or more food!!
Let me take you back in time to Malaya during the 19th & 20th centuries, and watch as history progressively unfolds with our walking tour towards modern-day Malaysia in the current 21st century!
We will also cover more than just attractions and sightseeing; throughout the tour, I will talk you through and show you how to immerse yourself in the Malaysian scene! Our language, our culture, and so on...
A good part of this tour will also have air-conditioning... I hope you won't complain about that!!
Also, there will be a lovely present for all of you... But I can't spoil it, unless if you join my tour!! 🙂
I'll cover the following below:
- What are my tours like?
- Route
- Meeting point
- How to get there
- The weather
- Other tours
__________________________________________________________
What are my tours like?
I love history, I love details, I'm a nerd... but even when I join free walking tours in your city, it's very likely I can't remember all the details! I'm sure it's the same for you too; no stress.
I understand everyone is looking for different things when doing free walking tours. Just let me know what you personally prefer in these tours and what your expectations are, but bear in mind that I will also have to cater to the whole group too. I will tell a good amount of details that I think is enough and relevant!
Ask me any questions if you want me to tell you even more information and stories about certain things (more than happy to do so!!), or if you simply want me to repeat what I said. I'll even share you a document that covers our stops in much more detail, and you can read up on them after the tours. You can also translate them, if English is not your first language.
Remember, this is an introductory tour and my focus is ultimately on getting the feel of the city and the country. If you want more or less details in your tours, read up more on the other tours offered below!
__________________________________________________________
Route
Within 2.5 hours, we will cover some highlights such as:
- The River of Life; discover the origins of the city!
- Dataran Merdeka; see history everywhere around you!
- Pasar Seni Central Market; be amazed at its transformation from a wet market, to a centre of arts and culture!
- Petaling Street and Chinatown; humble, yet bustling with lots of foods, murals, and temples!
- The durian; the infamous smelly fruit of South-east Asia!
- Merdeka 118 and KL Petronas Twin Towers; there's more to them than just our obsession of building some of the world's tallest buildings!
- ...and more! (did I mention food?)
In the last part of our tour, we will take the LRT train from Pasar Seni (KJ14) to KLCC (KJ10)**. This is to get you used to the train system, and it's the best way to beat the road traffic!!
You will not need to buy any tickets prior to this tour.
**KJ stands for Kelana Jaya, referring to the Ruby LRT line. Ruby is a red-purplish colour, which is different to the Red KTM line. I think that it is worth mentioning this detail, as it can possibly look confusing on the train map!
Tip: it can cost anywhere between RM1.00-RM5.00 per token, and slightly cheaper if you have the cashless Touch n' Go card, which you can get at selected locations! Be sure to have small change on standby, especially coins in case if the token machines does not accept notes at times.
__________________________________________________________
Meeting point
We will start the tour at the end of the Masjid Jamek Pedestrian Bridge, next to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (see map). There is a giant black cube in that area.
I will be there with a bright rainbow umbrella, wearing either a white or striped T-shirt.
It is recommended for you to be there 5-10 minutes early before the tour starts! If you are going to arrive later, please let me know and I'll share with you our live location. Otherwise, we will have to start the tour on time.
__________________________________________________________
How to get there (by foot)
Search on Google Maps "Masjid Jamek Pedestrian Bridge"; walk towards there, cross the bridge, and you'll arrive at the meeting point!
We will be on the side of the bridge that faces the Merdeka Independence Square.
__________________________________________________________
How to get there (by Grab taxi)
You can get to the meeting point via Grab taxi, which you can book by first downloading the Grab app on your phone!
Choose "KL River of Life" as your destination! Do not choose "River of Life". That is a different destination, although it's quite close to the meeting point anyway.
On Saturday and Sunday, the roads to the Merdeka Independence Square will very likely be closed off, mainly due to events among other things. Therefore, bear this in mind that the Grab taxi might not be able to take you all the way there!
Just to be safe, you can put "Masjid Jamek" or "Masjid Jamek LRT" as your destination!
From there, walk towards the Masjid Jamek Pedestrian Bridge; cross the bridge, and you'll arrive at the meeting point!
Traffic may be heavy, so please plan your journey accordingly.
IMPORTANT: Sometimes, it takes up to 10-20 minutes to wait for a regular 4-seater Grab once you've booked it, and that's before you account for the time to get to the meeting point.
Therefore:
(1) I recommend booking a Grab at around 7.30pm unless if you happen to be closer to the meeting point!
(2) You can also book a 4-seater plus (a more spacious car) or a 6-seater, and the wait should be much shorter! Note that this obviously means the ride costs more.
__________________________________________________________
How to get there (by train)
You can also take the LRT train to Masjid Jamek LRT, which is the closest train station to the meeting point.
You can reach it via the Kelana Jaya line (KJ13; ruby colour), or the Ampang-Sri Petaling line (AG7/SP7; brown-orange colour). You will have to interchange if you start on other train lines.
On Google Maps, put your starting point as "Masjid Jamek LRT", and put your destination as "Masjid Jamek Pedestrian Bridge".
When you exit the station, you will likely have to cross a major road until you are on the side of the road with a very famous mosque (Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek mosque, or Masjid Jamek).
From there, walk towards the Masjid Jamek Pedestrian Bridge; cross the bridge, and you'll arrive at the meeting point!
However, if you are worried about navigating with public transport and/or by foot, I recommend taking a Grab instead!
__________________________________________________________
The weather
I highly recommend bringing a drink, an umbrella and sunscreen for this hot and humid weather! (unless if you're trying to tan...)
Please check the weather forecast to see if there will be heavy rain or thunderstorm. If the forecast says so, I will let you know at least 30-60 minutes before the tour (if not earlier) on whether the tour will continue, and if so, whether you need to bring an umbrella or poncho. You can also choose another day too.
You can go to weather.com and find the forecast of KL there, although most forecasts should say the same!
Generally, the rule of thumb is that if it's very bright and/or hot during the morning, expect rain during the afternoon and/or evening onwards.
__________________________________________________________
Other tours
No two tours in the same, even the same city!
If you are interested in a tour where you can sightsee and have food and drinks in the night-time, why not consider my night tour? 🙂
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/47426-kl-night-tour-the-nightlife
I recommend doing both the day tour and the night tour! Please message me if you want to ask more about it 🙂
...and if you want to know even way more about the stories and history of KL, why not check out this excellent historical tour by my good colleague, Ian? 3.5 hours will pass by before you know it, and even then, you think that won't be enough! First come, first served.
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/46155-kuala-lumpur-from-ground-up
__________________________________________________________
Please let me know if you need help modifying or cancelling bookings.
Excited?! I know I am! Book away, and I can't wait to see all of you there.
Jaga diri (take care)!
Selamat datang (welcome)!
You might have explored Kuala Lumpur (KL) during the day, but what does the capital city behold at night?!
Watch the city become more charming than it already is! See the lights showcase the buildings, the markets, the parks and rivers! Witness the people make KL at night as vibrant and lively as daytime! Please, take as many photos of the sunset and nighttime, as you please...
This tour is mainly about food and drinks, and KL at nighttime in general; if you want history, you have my day tour (see more below!)
Feeling hungry and thirsty? Well, this tour is just for you... (you can have some light food before, but be sure to save some room for dinner!!)
I'll cover the following below:
- What are my tours like?
- Route
- Meeting point
- How to get there
- The weather
- Other tours
__________________________________________________________
What are my tours like?
I love history, I love details, I'm a nerd... but even when I join free walking tours in your city, it's very likely I can't remember all the details! I'm sure it's the same for you too; no stress.
I understand everyone is looking for different things when doing free walking tours. Just let me know what you personally prefer in these tours and what your expectations are, but bear in mind that I will also have to cater to the whole group too. I will tell a good amount of details that I think is enough and relevant!
Ask me any questions if you want me to tell you even more information and stories about certain things (more than happy to do so!!), or if you simply want me to repeat what I said. I'll even share you a document that covers our stops in much more detail, and you can read up more on them after the tours. You can also translate them, if English is not your first language.
Remember, this is a night tour and my focus is ultimately on getting the feel of the city at night, the food and the drinks. There's also the joy of relaxing after a long hot humid day and getting to know other tourists better! If you want more history and details, read up more on the other tours offered below!
__________________________________________________________
Route
Within 2.5 hours, we will cover some highlights such as:
- The River of Life Lookout Point; see the river (surprise surprise) come to life!
- Pasar Seni Central Market; be amazed at its transformation from a wet market, to a centre of arts and culture!
- The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple; the oldest Hindu temple in KL!
- Food; enjoy street food at night, and have some signature Malaysian delicacies such as satay!
- Petaling Street and Chinatown; humble, yet bustling with lots of foods, street art, and temples!
- Historical hidden bars; just where are they?!
I also recommend going for a sunset view (weather pending) at Vertigo, which is a rooftop place located inside Banyan Tree Hotel. Just make sure to get a Grab taxi to the meeting point after, well before the tour starts at 7.30pm!
You will not need to buy any tickets prior to this tour.
__________________________________________________________
Meeting point
We will start the tour at the Masjid Jamek Lookout Point @ River of Life (see map).
You will know when you are there; the river should be illuminated with blue lights and steam coming out from the sides of the river!! That's the waterfront show that goes on until midnight.
I will be there with a bright rainbow umbrella, wearing either a white or striped T-shirt.
It is recommended for you to be there 5-10 minutes early before the tour starts! If you are going to arrive later, please let me know and I'll share with you our live location. Otherwise, we will have to start the tour on time.
__________________________________________________________
How to get there (by Grab taxi)
You can get to the meeting point via Grab taxi, which you can book by first downloading the Grab app on your phone!
Choose "River of Life" as your destination! The river bridge lookout point is only a few metres walk from there. Do not choose "KL River of Life". That is a different destination, although it's quite close to the meeting point anyway.
When in doubt, you can always put "Hotel Avenue J" as your destination, which is also very close.
Traffic may be heavy, so please plan your journey accordingly.
IMPORTANT: Sometimes, it takes up to 10-20 minutes to wait for a regular 4-seater Grab once you've booked it, and that's before you account for the time to get to the meeting point.
Therefore:
(1) I recommend booking a Grab at around 7pm unless if you happen to be closer to the meeting point!
(2) You can also book a 4-seater plus (a more spacious car) or a 6-seater, and the wait should be much shorter! Note that this obviously means the ride costs more.
__________________________________________________________
How to get there (by train)
You can also take the LRT train to Masjid Jamek LRT, which is the closest train station to the meeting point.
You can reach it via the Kelana Jaya line (KJ13; ruby colour), or the Ampang-Sri Petaling line (AG7/SP7; brown-orange colour). You will have to interchange if you start on other train lines.
On Google Maps, put your starting point as "Masjid Jamek LRT", and put your destination as "Masjid Jamek Lookout Point @ River of Life".
It should be a 5 minute walk to the meeting point!
However, if you are worried about navigating with public transport and/or by foot, I recommend taking a Grab instead!
__________________________________________________________
The weather
Please check the weather forecast to see if there will be heavy rain or thunderstorm. If the forecast says so, I will let you know at least 30-60 minutes before the tour (if not earlier) on whether the tour will continue, and if so, whether you need to bring an umbrella or poncho. You can also choose another day too.
You can go to weather.com and find the forecast of KL there, although most forecasts should say the same!
Generally, the rule of thumb is that if it's very bright and/or hot during the morning, expect rain during the afternoon and/or evening onwards.
__________________________________________________________
Other tours
No two tours in the same, even the same city!
If you are interested in a tour that takes place in the day that covers history in more detail, why not consider my day tour?! 🙂
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/47313-kl-introductory-tour-the-malaysian-experience
I recommend doing both the day tour and the night tour! Please message me if you want to ask more about it 🙂
...and if you want to know even way more about the stories and history of KL, why not check out this excellent historical tour by my good colleague, Ian? 3.5 hours will pass by before you know it, and even then, you think that won't be enough! First come, first served.
https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/46155-kuala-lumpur-from-ground-up
__________________________________________________________
Please let me know if you need help modifying or cancelling bookings.
Excited?! I know I am! Book away, and I can't wait to see all of you there.
Jaga diri (take care)!
We are a group of Malaysian licensed tour guides (David Tan, Han and Joanne) working in the tourism industry, we are glad to be your tour guru and enthusiastic to share with you the diversity of religions and cultures in Malaysia.
We are also eager to share the local food and fruits, legends of our heritage buildings and temples with you in 150 minutes.
Our passions and profession will ensure you enjoy the best walk through the eyes of a local guide.
The highlights of this walk is suitable for walkers who have interest to know more about Chinese cultures and food include the following places of interest in Kuala Lumpur China Town:
- Chan She Shu Yuan
- Merdeka 118
- TRX106
- Kwai Chai Hong (Little Devil's Lane)
- Gudwara Sahib Polis
- Pik Wah Bar and Cafe Lo (clay pot coffee tasting)
- Gospel Hall
- Petaling Street (flea maeket)
- Rex KL Jalan Sultan
- Sin Sze Ya Temple (oldest Taoist temple)
- Central market (pasar seni)
Let's meet and start at Chan She Shu Yuan Ancestor Hall, and we will share with you some basic Chinese cultures and customs.
In addition, let us have some fun in learning simple Chinese Calligraphy here, and see how we communicate with our ancestors in the old days.
Then we will visit Gurdwara Sahib Sikhs Temple, an unique temple follow by Kwai Chai Hong (Little Devil's Lane)).
We will stop by for a photo session at the foot hill of our iconic building, Merdeka 118, follow shortly for a sampling of Malaysian home-grown coffee specially brewed in a clay pot at Pik Hua Lo.
We will be sharing with you the colourful stories of China town, its landmark building, as well as the nighttime food heaven. We will also take you to a tour of the vibrant Petaling Street flea market and Jalan Sultan, sampling of the various street foods, and possibly challenging your taste buds for an encounter with the King of All Fruits, i.e. Durian
We will also stop by for a visit to the oldest Taoist temple i. e. Sin Sze Si Ya Temple which was founded by Yap Ah Loy, a legendary and one of the most significant man 150 years ago in Kuala Lumpur.
Our tour will be ended at the iconic Central Market (Pasar Seni), so that you can enjoy some shopping at the local souvenir shops and food stalls.
During the walking tour, we will be happy to share with you some of the best-kept secrets of our old town and will be happy to answer any doubts/questions that you may have.
However, if you are interested to explore more into religions and cultures in Kuala Lumpur Old Town, please book now for our mysterious walk at 1700.
Please bring along your sunglasses, hat, umbrella and water in case you need.
Please meet our tour guru Mr David Tan/Mr Han/Joanne at Chan She Shu Yuan Ancestal Hall inside at 0930 and arrive 15 minutes earlier if you can make it .
Please call me if you arrive late.
We will proceed with the tour even if it is raining as we can always stop at the walkways or inside the temple, unless it rains heavily.
How to get there? ( Chan She Shu Yuan)
. By Grab/taxi--stop at the entrance
. By Lrt/Mrt - stop at Pasar Seni and walk about 10 minutes;
. By monorail - stop at Maharajalela and walk about 5 minutes.
How you recognise me? (Guru walk -Direction Guide blue cap)
Please come inside ancestal hall and you will see our tour guru David Tan/Han/Joanne wearing Malaysian Batik (colorful) shirt holding a Guru Walk card.
Please modify or cancel your booking in advance if you cannot make it so that neither the group nor the guide will have to wait for you, and also make room for other walkers who wish to book for this popular tour in Kuala Lumpur.
We are a group of Malaysian licensed tour guides -Direction Guides ( David Tan, Han, Joanne and Ooi) working in the tourism industry for several years, and we are glad to be your tour guru. share with you the diversity of religions and cultures in Malaysia.
We are also enthusiastic to share the secrets of our heritage buildings and temples with you in 135 minutes.
Our passions and profession will ensure you enjoy the cultural walk through the eyes of a local guide.
The mysterious walk includes the following places of interest in Old Kuala Lumpur City Centre:
Join the Most Captivating Chinatown Tour in Kuala Lumpur
-Discover the wonders and mysteries of cultures and religions
-Taste traditional Hainanese coffee
-Shoot artistic, amazing photos incorporating the old and new
-Stroll down KL’s famous Chinatown Petaling Street
-Dare step into the Little Demon Alley?
-View the architecture of a historic Moorish-style place of worship
-Appreciate colourful, intricate carvings at the oldest Hindu temple
-Visit a 100+ year-old church in KL’s city centre
-Sing/dance by the Klang River to a riveting Malay song with kompang
A kaleidoscope of history, culture, religion, people and sites
An awakening feast for the senses
Soft whisper: Let’s see who can answer our 3 most baffling questions during the tour. Prizes for those who can guess correctly.
Places to Visit
-KafeiDian (Hainanese kopitiam in 110-year-old Post Office)
-Merdeka 118 – second tallest building in the world
-Kwai Chai Hong – Little Demon Alley
-Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
-Petaling Street, famous walking street of Chinatown
-Pasar Seni (Central Market) arts and crafts
-The River of Life, song and dance
-Merdeka (Independence) Square
-Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque
-The Clock Tower – relic of colonial past
-St Mary’s Cathedral
-The Royal Selangor Club
Note: Due to the unpredictable weather, delays, etc, list of places to visit may be changed, replaced or omitted. Tour members have agreed to do so at their own risk. Guides and our organisers shall not be held responsible for any injury, form of loss, serious or otherwise. Guests are advised to be punctual, take good care of their belonging and follow the advice of guide at all times for their safety and enjoyment.
What to bring: Sunglasses, hat, umbrella, bottle of water + a big smile
What to wear: Light, comfortable clothes and good pair of shoes. Use sun block for sensitive skin
Where, when to meet: 16:45 sharp at KafeiDian, Jalan Pangggong. You will see Guruwalk card at the entrance, please enter Kafeidian and ask for David Tan/Han/Joanne/Ooi from Guruwalk with blue cap. We will be seated inside Kafeidian at a strategic table waiting for you.
Start of tour: 17:00 (please arrive at 16:45 (15 minutes earlier) as a courtesy to other guests and for your enjoyment so that the tour can start on time. Or else, you might miss the traditional coffee.
Length of tour: 2 hours 15 minutes
Late, change of plan: Contact David Tan
(10 euros =ringgit Malaysia 52)
How to get there: Waze KafeiDian,Jalan Panggong Kuala Lumpur city center
By Grab/Taxi - stop at entrance
By LRT/MRT - stop at Pasar Seni, 5-minutes walk
By Monorail - stop at Maharajalela, 5-minutes walk
Identifying your guide: Male or female guide wearing a colorful batik with a light blue Guru walk /Direction Guide cap, carry a Guruwalk card. Ask KafeiDian staff for Guruwalk or David Tan/ Ooi /Han/Joanne if necessary.
