Things to do with kids in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur's playgrounds, attractions and shopping malls make it a wonderfully child-friendly destination. Parents may want to begin their sightseeing at the Petronas Towers, which offer breath-taking views of the city. The Perdana Botanical Gardens are worth visiting too, as kids will find plenty of wide open spaces to play in. The sight also has some lovely picnic spots, and is home to the Bird Park and Butterfly House.

Other child-friendly activities include looking at toys in Chinatown, or walking through the vast Taman Negara national park. If the temperature climbs too high, children will enjoy any one of Kuala Lumpur's many water parks. When the sun goes down, parents can treat kids to the unique and unforgettable Fireflies Tour, which takes visitors down the Selangor River by boat to watch fireflies lighting up the mangrove trees.

Chinatown photo

Chinatown

Chinatown is an intoxicating jumble of crowds, colours and authentic food. The central section of Petaling Street is closed at night, when the area is transformed into an exciting,…

Chinatown

Chinatown is an intoxicating jumble of crowds, colours and authentic food. The central section of Petaling Street is closed at night, when the area is transformed into an exciting, brightly lit shopping experience. Vendors spread their wares onto the pavement, displaying anything from toys to t-shirts and jewellery.

Shoppers will need to be careful, though, as many items are fake. Also, bargaining for the best price is expected and part of the fun. Many stalls operate during the day, but Chinatown is more special at night. Shoppers should be mindful of pick-pockets, regardless of what time of day they visit; culture lovers should note that the area has some tremendous Chinese temples.

Petronas Towers photo

Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers were designed to capture Malaysia's emergence as Southeast Asia's cultural and commercial centre. Celebrated as the world's tallest twin towers, they dominate t…

Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers were designed to capture Malaysia's emergence as Southeast Asia's cultural and commercial centre. Celebrated as the world's tallest twin towers, they dominate the city skyline. Architects followed the traditional geometric principles of Islamic architecture when designing the buildings, using modern technology to stunning effect. Joined by a skybridge on the 41st floor, the towers are used as office complexes that form part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Development Park. They're particularly beautiful when lit up at night. Tours include crossing the famous bridge and going up to an observation deck on the 86nd floor, which offers phenomenal, 360-degree views of the city. Visitors can also enjoy an exhibition detailing the development of the towers, and purchase souvenirs at a gift shop.

Website www.petronastwintowers.com.my

Perdana Botanical Gardens photo

Perdana Botanical Gardens

The beautiful gardens were established in 1888 and are Kuala Lumpur's green belt. To many people, their backdrop of skyscrapers is reminiscent of New York's Central Park. Lush vege…

Perdana Botanical Gardens

The beautiful gardens were established in 1888 and are Kuala Lumpur's green belt. To many people, their backdrop of skyscrapers is reminiscent of New York's Central Park. Lush vegetation surrounds a vast lake, where visitors will find a number of romantic bridges and plenty of space to read, jog or socialise. Leisurely boat cruises are also on offer. Regarding attractions, Bird Park, Butterfly House, the National Monument, the Orchid and Hibiscus gardens and Malaysia's Parliament House are all in the area, and children can enjoy some wonderful playgrounds.