Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, the international gateway, is a fascinating kaleidoscope. This is the most developed and densely populated region of the country. It is also where the most important historical remains are found. Malaysia's capital city was founded in the 1890s, and its architecture reflects a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultures. Primarily a business and commercial centre, the city also has much to offer the leisure visitor.
The Tasek Perdana Lake Gardens are one of the most well known natural landmarks, a popular spot for picnics and walking. Boats may be hired. Within the gardens are Parliament House and the National Monument. Close by is the National Museum. Near the railway station is the National Mosque surrounded by lawns ornamented with fountains. Nearby is the old Chinese temple of Chan See Yuen and the colourful Indian temple of Sri Mahamariamman. At the recently developed 50-year-old central market, see local craftsmen at work, try local food at hawker stalls, and enjoy cultural and musical performances. The Batu Caves lie a few kilometres north. These caves, reached by 272 steps, house the Hindu shrine of Lord Subramaniam. Nearby is the Museum Cave, a fascinating display of brightly coloured statues and murals from Hindu mythology. Templar Park, 22 km north of Kuala Lumpur, is a well-preserved tract of primary rainforests with jungle paths, lagoons and waterfalls.
Jame Mosque (Kuala Lumpur)
It is located in Jalan Tun Perak, this Moorish mosque rests on the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, the birth-place of Kuala Lumpur. This is the very spot where the first settlers of Kuala Lumpur built their shacks. The mosque is the oldest in the city, which dates from 1908. Arthur Benison Hubbock, an architectural assistant in the Public Works and Survey Department, who was intrigued and inspired by the Mogul architecture of India, designed it.
National Mosque (Kuala Lumpur)
National Mosque is located near the railway station, along Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin. Its roof, designed in the shape of an eighteen-pointed star, has the appearance of a partly opened umbrella roof. The mosque was completed in 1965, and it is situated among five acres (13 hectares) of beautiful gardens. Visitors are required to remove their shoes. Special robes are provided if you are not appropriately attired.
House of Parliament (Kuala Lumpur)
This is situated near the Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur. It was officially opened in 1963. The view of Parliament House from the National Monument at the Lake Gardens is excellent. The House of Representatives and the Senate are located in the building. Entrance to the premises requires permission from the authorities.
National Monument (Kuala Lumpur)
The monument is a bronze sculpture built to commemorate men of the armed forces in their strength, unity, bravery and sacrifice for the country during the Emergency period between 1948-1961. The period during which the Malay armed forces joined with the British against the insurgence of communists in the country.
King's Palace (Kuala Lumpur)
It is a palace and an official residence of the Yang Di Pertuan Agung and the Raja Permaisuri Agung (the King and Queen) of Malaysia. It stands on a 28-acre area, on a hill overlooking the Klang River.
National Museum (Kuala Lumpur)
It is beautifully designed and built in typical Minangkabau-Malay-styled architecture, in the style of a Malay palace. Its impressive facade of two large murals depicts scenes of the country's colourful past. It houses many fine collections of various artefacts like Historical Gallery, Cultural Gallery, Metalwork and Musical Instruments Gallery. Other galleries include the National Sports Gallery and the Natural History Gallery.
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