We get it. You’ve got itchy feet already. We do too, and with recent announcements by the Malaysian government on relaxing SOPs for those fully vaccinated against COVID-19, it’s nice to see Malaysia slowly but surely opening up again.
While domestic travel restrictions haven’t been fully lifted just yet, at least we (finally) get to enjoy what our fair city of Kuala Lumpur (KL) has to offer. To revitalise your Instagram feed, put away the pyjamas, get dolled up, and head to one of the city’s most Instagrammable spots, which we’ve listed below:
1. Changkat Bukit Bintang
They say the nightlife at Changkat Bukit Bintang is something to look forward to. I say the visit during the day is equally as exciting. The colourful streets of Changkat, near the food streets of Jalan Alor, will set the tone of your Instagram page.
Do a walking tour of Bukit Bintang and the nearby alleys of Changkat to capture all the beautiful walls of art there. You can park your car in Pavilion, Sungei Wang Plaza, Lot 10 or one of the open-air parking lots nearby as it will be difficult to find proper parking along Changkat’s busy streets.
2. Kwai Chai Hong
Located near Petaling Street and the Pasar Seni LRT, Kwai Chai Hong is a restored building in Chinatown that we feel has been beautifully restored into one of KL’s best-kept secret photo spots for Instagrammers. Each mural will take you back to the ’60s and tells you a story in that era.
3. Vintage 1988
Another good spot for capturing nice pictures in KL? Hipster cafes. While visiting Kwai Chai Hong, walk over to Vintage 1988 that’s teeming with a retro vibe. You may want to enjoy a cup of coffee and light brunch while here ranging from RM15 to RM50. On the other hand, expect to pay RM10 or more for parking if you decide to park around the area.
4. Merchant’s Lane
Another must-visit cafe in the Petaling Street area is Merchant’s Lane. The cafe isn’t just Instagram-worthy but also serves delicious western and Asian food to fill your empty stomach. Although the cafe is on the first floor, the pop-culture decorations that melds the artistry of Ipoh, Penang, and Melaka combined with a tall ceiling makes it look spacious and homely.
5. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
The historic building of Sultan Abdul Samad, located opposite Merdeka Square was built during the British era in the 1890s. The preserved colonial architecture is now home to the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Culture also favourite spot for wedding shoots. Pre-pandemic, it’s also where celebrations were held for Malaysia’s Independence Day.
6. Malaysian National Monument
Overlooking the Perdana Botanical Garden, the Malaysian National Monument represents freedom. At the entrance, walk towards the Islamic dome to see the statue of seven soldiers that sacrificed for Malaysia’s peace and freedom. Do bring an umbrella to protect your skin from the hot weather or rain during your visit.
7. Perdana Botanical Garden
One of our favourite picnic spots in the city is hands down the Perdana Botanical Garden. An evening walk amongst its myriad blooms will let you see families hanging in the park, friends having a joyful time, and kids running around or playing with their bicycles. Along with the foliage, there are a number of sweet Instagram spots.
8. KL Tower
Completed in 1995, KL Tower will be the best place to visit if you want to have a 360o view of KL with the Petronas Twin Towers in the background. Despite being one of the tallest towers in the world, alongside the Petronas Twin Towers, KL Tower also offers sky dining at Atmosphere 360 — definitely and IG-worthy destination. You can also get snap happy at with the famous Sky Box while the surrounding area also features a mini zoo and upside-down house. You’ll also find the entrance of the KL Forest Eco Park here.
9. KL Forest Eco Park
Those who love nature and are unable to explore the forest and mountains during this pandemic can get their jungle fix right here. Known as the forest in the city, the KL Forest Eco Park is one of our favourite places to explore. A designated reserve since 1906, it’s one of the oldest in the city, and has a well-maintained canopy walk and trails covering almost 11,000 square metres of forest.
10. Batu Caves
Just 20 minutes away from the KL City Centre, Batu Caves has always been amongst Malaysia’s most-visited tourist destinations. But when the temple gave their iconic stairs a rainbow facelift into 272 colourful steps, it became an Instagram hit! If you’re planning to visit the temple, do remember to dress appropriately.
11. Classic Malay House, Datuk Keramat
There are plenty of hotels, hostels, and rentals in the city. But this Classic Malay House located at Datuk Keramat near the Damai LRT station will let you indulge in some local culture right at the heart of the capital.
Unfortunately, if you’re not staying for the night at the Classic Malay House, they’ll not be able to offer you a free visit unless you rent the space for photoshoot purposes. Consider a staycation with your best gals and have a mini photoshoot of your own.
12. The LINC KL
Personally, when I first visited The LINC KL, I spent hours just exploring the place. Every angle has a story — a space for peaceful yoga, calm reading spot, and a perfectly-preserved old tree in the centre of the shopping mall that’s the heart and soul of the picture-perfect location.
But we can promise you that photo spots are everywhere. And once you’re all tuckered out after a day of exploring and picture-taking, there’s always De.Wan 1958 — by renowned Chef Wan — that serves up delectable local fare right here too.
