6 Off-Beat Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur This Summer

Kuala Lumpur can be said to be characterized by the tall high rises, crowded markets and the Petronas Twin Towers, but under the spout there is a city of surprise. There are the traveler secrets behind the tourism tracks that showcase a more genuine and less noisy Malaysian capital that would be ideal in the summer of 2012 to explore as the holiday destination.

The image of Kuala Lumpur created in the mind of the majority is a futuristic skyline, neon streets, and massive shopping malls. However, beyond the flock of people, the city conceals hundreds of treasures to be explored each of which has its own plot, rhythm, and beauty. This summer, think outside the box and you will discover the side of KL that is lively and calm, contemporary and classic.

1. Thean Hou Temple 

Thean Hou Temple, which is located in the graceful location of Robson Hill, is one of the largest temples in Southeast Asia but seemingly remains calm in terms of other tourist attractions. This six-storey masterpiece is dedicated to a Chinese sea goddess known as Mazu, and a combination of the modern architecture and ancient tradition. The decorative dragons, colorful lanterns and extravagant carvings ensure that every street is photogenic. The views of the skyline of Kuala Lumpur are sweeping, and can be seen by the visitor, as he stands in the courtyard, a vivid contrast of religious calm and the bustle of urbanity. The temple gardens are in full bloom in summer and the faint sounds of the chants are combined with the song of the birds and this is an ideal place to meditate or just enjoy the beauty of the city up in the air.

2. Kampung Baru

Kampung Baru in the centre of a modern metropolis makes one feel like entering the other time. This old Malay enclave has maintained its wooden house structures, aromatic food stands, as well as community despite the presence of skyscrapers. Foot walking is the most effective mode of exploration, walking around small streets with coconut trees and taking food at local restaurants where they serve nasi lemak, satay and roti jala. With the onset of the evening, fairy lights illuminate the stalls located on the street, people laugh, and the smell of roasting meat and spices forms an indelible impression of the senses. You can count on Kampung Baru to expose you to the real culture and warmest hospitality, especially during summer evenings.

3. Taman Tugu Forest Trail

Taman Tugu Forest Trail is an invigorating getaway to a moment of tranquility in the city. A few minutes away from downtown Kuala Lumpur, this 66 acre urban forest reserve is a place where towering tropical trees and a rich array of ferns can be found, as well as the calls of birds. The dark paths offer an excellent escape of the summer sun. Be it an early morning jogger, a photographer after the golden light or a traveler seeking solitude, Taman Tugu provides a dose of nature. It seems like a million miles away from city life due to the meandering trails, wildlife, and the breeze but it is in its very center.

4. RexKL

RexKL which was once a historic cinema has been turned into one of the most creative cultural hubs in Kuala Lumpur. The theatre of the past has been re-invented as a multi-purpose venue where art, food, books and music can be found. It is a creative place in its industrial interiors. You can have an artisan coffee, visit an independent bookstore, have a local art exhibition, or hear live music during summer nights. The walls resonate with its movie history, combining the past with new ideas. On weekends, pop-up markets, workshops and cultural performances turn RexKL into a place of interest to young artists and interested travelers. It is a place where the modern soul of Kuala Lumpur is really shining.

5. The Zhongshan Building

The Zhongshan Building is a group of shophouses that were built in the 1950s but are now transformed into a vibrant creative neighborhood in the historic Kampung Attap area. All of the corners are buzzing with imaginations, not to mention small art galleries and zines, but craft studios and vinyl record stores. The atmosphere is full of innovativeness and the smell of freshly made coffee in one of its adorable cafes. It is a small, artistic alternative to KL glamorous shopping malls and a preferred place by intellectuals, artists and people who like to have meaningful discussions. Go on a hot summer afternoon and you will see locals sketching, reading or talking about art in the Malaysian sun, and this is an ideal outline of the independent city that the Malaysians are.

6. Sunway Lagoon’s Wildlife Park (with a twist)

Although Sunway Lagoon is widely known as the place with sensational water-slides and amusement rides, there is another secretive part of the park, called the Wildlife Park that many people are not aware of. This peaceful corner of the complex is a close interaction with a variety of more than 150 species of animals, both big and small, white lion, playful otter and colorful hornbills. The park is shaped in the form of a green oasis, with shaded walks and peaceful areas that could be enjoyed by both families and animal enthusiasts. The park holds special feeding sessions and educational shows during summer and it is an interactive and fun way to visit the park. It is a good break to spend the day, particularly after the adrenaline trip of the water rides in the area.

A Summer Beyond the Ordinary

The offbeat places in Kuala Lumpur will show that the real beauty of the city is beyond the skyline. Thean Hou Temple makes you feel relaxed, Kampung Baru makes you embrace the past, Taman Tugu makes you feel good, RexKL makes you feel creative, Zhongshan building makes you feel artsy, and the Wildlife park makes you feel close to nature. These locations combine to narrate the tale of a city that is ever-changing and is very much connected to its essence.

Take a holiday this summer, out of the track. Explore with the locals, inhale the smells of the street food and the trees, and explore Kuala Lumpur not as a tourist, but as an inquisitive traveler who tries to learn the secret soul of this city. The reward? Something more real, motivating, and memorable something you remember even once you are home.