Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur shines as Malaysia’s cosmopolitan capital and one of Southeast Asia’s fastest growing and economically successful cities. Around two centuries ago, however, Kuala Lumpur – whose name reflects the confluence of two rivers – was nothing more than virgin jungle. Its storied origins start with tenacious Chinese and Malay tin prospectors in the late 19th century and British colonials, who established this settlement as their capital of Peninsular Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur, or KL, played a pivotal role in the nation’s history and vividly reflects Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and modern aspirations. Malay traditions, around 150 years of British Colonial rule and waves of migrants, primarily of Chinese and Indian descent, have all left their imprint on KL’s architecture, cuisine and culture. Today, Southeast Asia’s youngest capital presents a vibrant, multi-ethnic community and heritage, from colourful temples and pencil-thin minarets to Mogul-style domes and colonial spires. In contrast, high-octane development in recent decades has created an ever-expanding metropolis with a shape-shifting skyline of glittering skyscrapers. The ultra-modern Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) comes crowned by the symbolic Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s tallest twin structures. The epitome of modern Asia, patches of steamy jungle and leafy greenery are still evident, why KL is known as the “Garden City of Lights”.

With an intoxicating blend of old-world heritage and new-world sophistication, this Malaysian capital promises to be anything but dull.