Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide

Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Ultimate KL Travel Guide Blog

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Last updated on September 14th, 2024

We’ve put together this list of the best sights and our favorite things to do to help with your Kuala Lumpur itinerary in this detailed travel guide blog. Read on to find out where to go, what to do, the best food to eat, and useful travel information, so you won’t miss out on anything when you’re visiting KL!

Kuala Lumpur (KL), the capital city of Malaysia, has long been a popular travel destination from all around the world. Every year, thousands of travelers flock to Kuala Lumpur for a perfect gateway. It is the major tourist hub not only when travelers get to Malaysia and make for an excellent first stop when getting to other countries in South East Asia. There are so many things to do in this exciting city, and it doesn’t disappoint travelers with something to suit all ages and budgets.

When planning for the Kuala Lumpur itinerary, you will discover the spectacular futuristic towers and skyscrapers, multi-story mega mall for shopping, traditional cultural sights, unique local markets, and mouthwatering local food if you spend two or three days in KL.

Kuala Lumpur is big and crowded with many things to do in the city. The most challenging part of planning for the Kuala Lumpur itinerary is mapping them all out together with a proper transportation arrangement that makes sense. Planning for things to do in KL can be overwhelming and it can sometimes be challenging for a first-time traveler to Kuala Lumpur.

Rest assured. Here is a recommended 3-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary in this travel guide blog that covers all the best things to do, food to eat, and practical travel information to ease your planning. Let’s have a look at the best of Kuala Lumpur in 3 Days!

This Kuala Lumpur travel guide blog is comprehensive and long. For your convenience, feel free to check on the easy-access links to travel information, things to do, hotels, and other services here.

Kuala Lumpur (KL)

Before planning your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, be sure to check out our Kuala Lumpur pre-trip essentials prior to your trip to have an overview of this amazing city.

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant ethnic diversity city with native Malay, Chinese, and Indian influence. Malay with Muslim religion is the main dominant of the country and each native with own religion. The city is full of a cosmopolitan atmosphere with multiple religions and cultures from around Asia, peacefully living in the city.

During your trip to KL, you can visit Petronas Twin Tower, Central Market, Petaling Street, Batu Caves, and many more for cultural activities to experience the diverse culture of every religion. But please dress conservatively especially if you are visiting religious buildings such as mosques, Buddha and Hindu temples, 

Kuala Lumpur is a modern developed city and most people can speak English. People here are very friendly and welcoming visitors. If you need any help with direction or questions, basically you can stop by any one and they are ready to help. However, criminals such as pickpockets are also high especially in tourist areas. Please be careful with your personal belonging when wandering around in the city.

Traveling To Kuala Lumpur

Traveling To Kuala Lumpur

If you’re flying to Kuala Lumpur, then you’ll be landing at either KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) or KLIA2, depending on your airline.

Use Skyscanner to find the Best Flight Deal

From the airport to the town area of Kuala Lumpur take about 40 minutes. There are a few options that you can choose when getting from KL airport to the city center. Here’s how you can get to downtown KL from either airport.

By Train: This is the best way to get to downtown KL by the KLIA Ekspres train. The non-stop train will take you to KL Sentral train station from KLIA1 and KLIA2 in 28 minutes and 33 minutes respectively. From there you can transfer to other parts of the city by train or Grab to your hotel.

Get Discounted KLIA Ekspres Airport Train Tickets from Klook (QR Code with tap-and-go)

Alternatively, you may consider the KL TravelPass with a single or round trip KLIA Ekspres card and unlimited Metro card for 2 days. It a money-saving and hassle-free when visiting Kuala Lumpur.

By Bus: Frequent bus from the airport to the city center with about an hour of traveling time. It normally takes about an hour and costs about RM 12 each way. The cheapest transport option from KL airport to the city center.

By Grab / Taxi: It is pretty easy and straightforward to get a Grab or taxi ride from Kuala Lumpur airport directly to the city center. However, you might need to wait in line during peak hours. The costs normally start from RM70 depending on the car’s type and destination.

By Private Transfer: The best option if you are traveling by group or with family and kids. Pre-book the private transfer to avoid waiting in line for a taxi or grab. You can reserve the private transfer via Klook as it is one of the reliable brands when arranging for private transfers in KL.

Pro Tips: If you need data, you may pick up the 4G Sim Cards or Wifi Device at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Getting Around in Kuala Lumpur

Getting Around in Kuala Lumpur

When getting around in the city, it’s not difficult to get around as the public transport and share-hailing service such as Grab is pretty convenient. However, take note that traffic condition is pretty worst in downtown. You might need to avoid the rush hours to avoid the working locals.

Besides, travelers can get the Mycity Pass where you can get unlimited on the MRT, LRT, monorail, and the BRT-Sunway Line. It is a great saving if you are using public transport as the major transportation for the day. The pass is available for purchase at all LRT, monorail, MRT, and BRT stations.

Alternatively, it’s best that you get a Touch-n-Go Card or install the app especially if you plan on using public transportation a lot. It’s like a pre-load card that you can use in most public transport, convenience stores, restaurants, and many others places as well. You’ll never have to get single journey tickets if you need to take the bus. Pretty convenient but make the shops or restaurants accept it.

For hassle-free, consider joining a fun KL Half-Day Tour to discover the modern and enigmatic Kuala Lumpur with transportation included. You will go around the city and visit some of the interesting attractions in the city such as the National Mosque, the King’s Palace, the National Museum, and more. Very convenient and saves you a lot of time.

Check for more detail: Kuala Lumpur Half Day City Tour.

Where To Stay

Kuala Lumpur has a wide range of accommodations that you can choose from, ranging from budget hostels, mid to high-range hotels, and luxurious hotels. As a visitor, the prime location to stay in Kuala Lumpur is nearby the Pavilion KLCC area. This is the most convenient area in Kuala Lumpur and you’ll enjoy having the public transportation accessibility, a wide variety of food, and shopping on your doorstep.

Room View on Dorsett Kuala Lumpur
Room View on Dorsett Kuala Lumpur

The best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur is the Dorsett Kuala Lumpur. It is a high-range hotel situated right in the heart of Bukit Bintang and super convenient to explore the city and nearby. The hotel is only a very short walk to the Pavilion KL shopping mall and has easy access to MRT Bukit Bintang station. The excellent location makes sightseeing and transports seamless.

Extremely popular accommodation choice in KL and rooms running fast. Click to check availability and make a reservation.

Here are some other options nearby the areas: 

  • Luxury: JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur definitely one of the best picks which are perfectly situated right opposite the Pavilion KL. Everything is exceptional for a perfect stay in KL.
  • High-Mid Range: citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang offers clean rooms, comfortable beds, and very attentive staff for the stays in the city.
  • Budget: BIG M Hotel, a 2-star budget hotel that is conveniently next to Masjid Jamek LRT Station.

You may also check out our accommodation guide for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur with more options. Find the best Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices and make a reservation now. 

Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

What to do in Kuala Lumpur? You may ask when planning your trip to KL. Being a multi-cultural society that includes native Malay, Chinese, Hindu, and indigenous inhabitants, there are plenty and a wide variety of attractions to reflect the diversity of the city. You’ll never lack suggestions as there are many things to do in KL. 

Here’s a 3-day sample Kuala Lumpur itinerary to help you plan your trip. Let’s check it out!

Day 1 (Modernest of KL):

  • Arrive in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Petronas Twin Tower and KLCC Park / Menara Kuala Lumpur.

Day 2 (Downtown KL for Cultural and Food):

  • Merdeka Square
  • Masjid Jamek
  • Central Market (Pasar Seni)
  • Petaling Street
  • Chill at a cafe in Kwai Chai Hong
  • Bukit Bintang
  • Food Hunt Jalan Alor

On Day 3 (Day trip to nearby attractions from Kuala Lumpur):

  • Batu Cave / National Zoo of Malaysia / Sunway Lagoon Theme Park.

Pro Tips: Above Kuala Lumpur itinerary is jam-packed with wonderful places to visit in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days. So be sure to adjust based on your interest and situation. 

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

It’s your first day in Kuala Lumpur. We’re spending the time exploring the main city center and the highlights of KL. There are two iconic symbols in Kuala Lumpur which are Petronas Twin Tower and Menara Kuala Lumpur which you can put into your KL itinerary.

Both attractions can be visited within 1 hour if you only want to take a glance at them. But there are many activities that can be coupled together to make a full-day excursion, so please consider including them based on your interest and time. We will share more detail below each section.

Petronas Twin Tower

KL itinerary - KLCC Building
KLCC Petronas Twin Tower

No trip to Kuala Lumpur would be complete without a visit to the Petronas Twin Tower.

Standing over 452 meters, the 88-story twin giants is the major architectural landmark and iconic symbols in Kuala Lumpur. These twin giants can be visible from almost all the places when you are in the city. It was once the tallest building in the world and now remains the world’s tallest twin structure today.

Skip-The-Line PETRONAS Twin Towers Admission Ticket

The shimmering stainless-steel-clad towers are simply amazing. You can step onto a unique sky bridge with observation decks that connects the two towers together on the 41st and 42nd floors which are located 170m above ground. It was an amazing experience and you can admire the breathtaking views that stretch across the city of Kuala Lumpur.

Petronas Twin Tower
Must-visit in Kuala Lumpur itinerary – Petronas Twin Tower

At night, Petronas Twin Tower will be lit up and it looks particularly impressive when illuminated. Make sure to see it in person!

Kuala Lumpur Travel Tip: Only a few tickets are sold daily. Please come early or book skip-the-line tickets online as the tickets are running fast. If you want to see the Kuala Lumpur skyline at night, definitely need to book online in advance as it is a high chance that tickets are sold out. Your ticket will be able to access the sky bridge plus the observation decks. You will be able to wander around and take the pictures as much as you can. The towers are closed on Mondays.

Suria KLCC and Park

KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show
KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show

Not only this. Petronas Twin Tower is a one-stop destination and has everything for everyone. It is the local favorite place to meet and chill up with friends, and hang out with family and kids during the weekend. There are lots to see and do in Petronas Twin Tower complex and you can spend an entire day here, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

The base area of the Petronas Twin Tower is the Suria KLCC and KLCC Park.

The Suria KLCC is a high-end shopping mall with over 300 boutiques for shopaholics, a variety of restaurants for food options, and also exhibition places for events and festivals.

While KLCC Park is the designated outdoor park for greeny space in KL. The park stretches over 20 hectares with green and jogging trails for exercise and also a children’s playground for young visitors. A large lake and fountain in front of Suria KLCC feature with KLCC Lake Symphony Water Fountain Show in a magical sound, water, and light at 20:00, 21:00, and 22:00 daily.

A must-visit place for everyone Kuala Lumpur itinerary!

Menara Kuala Lumpur

Menara Kuala Lumpur
Menara Kuala Lumpur

KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur) is another iconic building in Kuala Lumpur. Again, it was once the tallest building before Petronas Twin Tower and was built to improve telecommunications.

At 300 meters from the ground, there is a 360-degree Atmosphere Restaurant and a Skydeck glass viewing platform where you can go up the tower to see the view of the city. There is a glass platform area that overlooks the city and is a good spot for photos. You can purchase tickets at the gate or in advance through Klook to save you some time.

KL Tower Tickets (Observation Deck/Sky Deck/Sky Box/TW100)

Pro Tips: KL Tower has a strict maximum capacity limit. Pre-purchase the KL Tower Ticket to speed up your process. The visitor is still required to walk in to pre-book your available and preferred time slots at the KL Tower ticketing counter, but definitely faster than purchasing at the counter and hassle-free.

Canopy Walk in KL Forest Eco Park
Canopy Walk in KL Forest Eco Park

Coupled with your trip to Kuala Lumpur Tower is the Mini Zoo, Aquarium, Upside-Down House, and canopies walk at KL Forest Eco Park. The canopy walkway in KL Forest Eco Park offers amazing aerial views of the forest and of the city outside. All the attractions and activities are very good for family and kids.

Lastly, we recommend that you come here early as KL Tower is one of the popular spots in Kuala Lumpur. It can get crowded in the late morning, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Day 2 Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

On day 2 of the Kuala Lumpur itinerary, we will be more focused on the downtown city and you’ll spend the day in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Here you can find cultural attractions and diversity of local food that never keep your stomach empty. Even locals still come here for the food. So expected waiting time if you are visiting them at peak hours and on weekends.

Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square - Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
Merdeka Square

Firstly, head to Merdeka Square (also known as Independence Square) which is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. This location is easily accessible by the LRT train (Station Masjid Jamek).

Merdeka Square is a lovely open green square in Kuala Lumpur surrounded by architecturally beautiful old buildings. The historical area is the place to celebrate Malaysia’s independence from the United Kingdom. It is also the place where Malaysians gather every year on 31st August to celebrate Malaysia’s independence day.

Do observe the beautiful old colonial and historic buildings surrounding this Merdeka square are the Sultan Abdul Samad Building which is currently a Government-used building, KL City Gallery, St. Mary’s Anglican Cathedral, and Royal Selangor Club. All together is one of the historical landmarks and important historical sightseeing of Malaysia.

Estimated time of visit: 1 to 2 hours.

KL Travel Tips: The weather is extremely hot in Kuala Lumpur in the afternoon. Come here early in the morning or late evening to avoid the heat.

Masjid Jamek

Besides, Merdeka Square is located near the River of Life. You can stroll around the river bank and cross the river via a bridge from or to Masjid Jamek, another popular attraction for a nice photo spot in the city. The “I Love KL” Sign is also situated in the area. Worth visiting altogether and good for some nice photographs.

Estimated time of visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

How To Get to Merdeka Square: The nearest station is the LRT train (Station Masjid Jamek) with 3 train lines connected to the station. Walk towards Jamek Mosque from the station and proceed to the corner and towards the Merdeka Square.

Central Market (Pasar Seni)

Central Market - Things to do in Kuala Lumpur

Next, head to the Central Market for the traditional culture of Malaysia. From Merdeka Square, it is about 5 minutes walk from Merdeka Square to Pasar Seni.

The Central Market in Kuala Lumpur is also known as Pasar Seni in the local language. Central Market is an art decoration building that is full of Malaysian characters. It was once the wet market that sold local produce such as fruit, vegetables, and meat. But the market was transformed into an art-centric filled with stores that showcase local Malaysian handicrafts, carvings, souvenirs, and batik prints.

Tourists, shoppers, and art lovers come here to experience the local Malaysian vibe. The area can be very lively with street performers and musical shows in front of the market. Eateries are available on the second floor where you can have traditional local delicacies.

Estimated time of visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

How to get to the Central Market: 5 minutes walk from Merdeka Square. Alternatively, the Central Market is easily accessible by private vehicle, with a paid parking space located just in front of the building. For public transport, you can get to Central Market by Monorail (Maharajalela Station), by LRT or MRT train (Pasar Seni Station), or by KTM commuter train (Kuala Lumpur Station), and then you reach it by few minutes of walk.

Due to the pandemic, most of the shops are closed temporarily. Rest assured. Many retailers are starting to come back for business.

Petaling Street

Petaling Street - Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog
Petaling Street

From Central Market, there is a short walk to Malaysia’s Chinatown. Petaling Street aka Jalan Petaling is a colorful, lively, and vibrant market day and night. The area was once dominated by the Chinese population in Malaysia and was declared a Heritage Site. But nowadays, Petaling Street is filled with stalls where cheap items are sold along the main street.

From Central Market, you will be welcome with an oriental archway which is located on each side at the entrance within a 5-minute walk. The Petaling Sreet is a covered marketplace that has a local vibe and culture.

Strolling along the street, you will find all kinds of goods such as shoes, hats, shirts, accessories, and counterfeit branded goods are sold. We would not recommend shopping here but sometimes you will be still able to get some great stuff that brings back home. The whole neighborhood is far from glamorous, but definitely a saving grace for low-budget travelers. Don’t forget to bargain if you plan to buy something at Petaling Street.

Worth spending an hour here just appreciating the market and local vibe.

Estimated time of visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

How to get to the Petaling Street: The nearest station is Pasar Seni MRT Station. 2 minutes walk after exit from Pintu A.

Street Food Tour on Petaling Street

For food lovers, Petaling Street is the best place where you can start with a street food tour in Chinatown. There are many Chinese food vendors and fruit stalls located in the alley where you can sample traditional Chinese food.

Must Try Food in Petaling Street KL

A few recommendations are the roasted duck, black Hokkien mee, chee Cheong fun, soya bean drink, and soya bean curd (tau fu fa) are selling for decades on Petaling Street. The refreshing longan drink is a must-try in Chinatown, especially on a hot day. You hardly miss this food in Petaling Street as you will see lots of people swarming in front of the stall for a drink.

You may also check out the local’s favorite Lai Foong Kopitiam (Chinese Coffee shop) for their popular Lala Noodles which is located nearby the Central Market.

Kwai Chai Hong

Kwai Chai Hong
Kwai Chai Hong

When visiting Petaling Street, be sure to walk to the Kwai Chai Hong (Lorong Pengguna) at the Southern end of the street. Tucks in an alley, Kwai Chai Hong is famed as one of the most Instagram-able spots in KL.

The charming street is filled with street mural arts and bright paintings which restored a part of KL Chinatown in the old glory days with a nostalgic feel. A great place to stop for 15 minutes for some great photo sections.

Street Art in Kwai Chai Hong
Street Art in Kwai Chai Hong

There is also a lot of good food, restaurants, cafe, and bars around here for you to rest after the long walk. A few recommendations are Merchant’s Lane, Ho Kow Hainan Kopitiam for Chinese food, Pandan Republic, and Luckin Kopi.

You can check out my food post on this Kuala Lumpur Food Guide for more pictures and information.

Cafes in Kwai Chai Hong
Colorful cafes along with the Kwai Chai Hong

More Time in Downtown KL

There are also a few attractions that you coupled into your Day 2 Kuala Lumpur itinerary.

KL itinerary - Sri Maha Mariamman Temple at Petaling Street
KL itinerary – Sri Maha Mariamman Temple at Petaling Street

If you have more time, we highly recommend a visit to Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, a short 3-minute easy walk from Petaling street market. The Hindu temple is situated on the roadside with a free entrance. Footwear is to be removed before entering the temple. A nominal fee of 20 sen per pair is charged to keep footwear in an ante-room to the left of the main entrance.

The colorful ancient temple is the oldest Hindu temple, squeezed into a bustling city in Kuala Lumpur. The temple itself is beautifully decorated and surrounded by a wall of colorful murals. It is small but well managed and reasonably clean. Take a few minutes to stop to enjoy a glimpse into Hindu culture. You will even get to see a wedding vow taking place if lucky.

KL itinerary - Chinese Guan Di Temple

Opposite the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, there is also a Guan Di Temple which focuses on Taoism that you can couple together as a cultural trip. The Chinese building is the 121-year-old Guan Di Temple dedicated to the Chinese God of War, who also represents loyalty. A beautiful pair of amazing religious buildings in the heart of a multicultural city. Seeing their worship is really interesting.

Another quick stop on Kuala Lumpur itinerary.

REXKL - Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog
REXKL

Continue your walk from Petaling Street, and you can get to the REXKL. This building was once the most popular cinema in town and has been transformed into an exhibition space with market space. The exhibition is housed on the upper floor with a picturesque centuries-old bookstore. While the basement is used for a number of chic bars retail shops, and Kiosks. The best place that gives one a glimpse of Kuala Lumpur’s hipster scene.

Thean Hou Temple

Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide - Thean Hou Temple

Tucked on a hilltop in KL downtown, Thean Hou Temple is an ornate Chinese temple that is worth a visit on your Kuala Lumpur itinerary. It is about a few kilometers away from Petaling Street, so best to coupled it together when visiting Kuala Lumpur. However, take note that public transport is not well-connected, so it is best to drive there or take a 10-minutes grab ride.

Thean Hou Temple Kuala Lumpur

Thean Hou Temple is a great pictorial location for the oriental theme. The temple is surrounded by lovely gardens and the main building is multi-tiered that beautifully decorated with colorful lanterns. There are also sculptures of the 12 animals of the zodiac, arts, and statues that are worth spending some time wandering around.

The best time to visit Thean Hou Temple is during the Chinese festival season, you will witness the whole space lit by sparkling lights and impressive red lanterns. Besides, Thean Hou Temple is a place for marriage registration and you may lucky to witness the Chinese locals celebrating the new marriage there.

Estimate visiting time: 1 to 2 hours.

Getting to Thean Hou Temple: Not easy access by public transport. We recommended taking an e-hailing or taxi ride to get to the temple. Normally it costs about RM10-20 from the Petaling Street area.

Bukit Bintang

Strolling in Bukit Bintang

Next, move your footstep to Bukit Bintang with a short MRT ride to Pavilion Bukit Bintang MRT station. It is best to spend your late afternoon time indoors to cool down in the air conditioning building.

The Golden Triangle in Bukit Bintang is one of the most touristy spots in Kuala Lumpur. The area is filled with great shopping centers, restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels, and people!

If you like shopping, then you’re going to enjoy the mall hopping in Pavillion Kuala Lumpur, Lot-10, Fahrenheit 88, and the surrounding.

Bukit Bintang is also surrounded by many restaurants, locally and internationally where you can get all the international cuisines around. The street is never sleeping and is always filled with cars and people. Locals and visitors gather here for shopping, food, drink, and party. A must-visit in Kuala Lumpur for the atmosphere!

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur - Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

Among them, Pavilion KL is the biggest and most stylish mall in the city. The center of the Pavilion is always filled with decorations, based on the coming Malaysia Festival during your day or visit. Many people are coming here to experience the festival vibe when visiting the area. The Christmas and Chinese New Year Celebration is always the most beautiful and lively decoration in town.

Besides, Pavilion KL is one of the best malls in Kuala Lumpur with a great selection of grant and luxury branded shops. Shop till you drop here!

Food Hunt at Jalan Alor

Kuala Lumpur Itinerary - Food Hunt in Jalan Alor
Lively Jalan Alor

End your Day 2 Kuala Lumpur itinerary with a foodie hunt at Jalan Alor. This lively street is the best place when you are looking for a lively night market in Kuala Lumpur with good food. From Pavilion KL, there are about 5 minutes walk to Jalan Alor.

Once you’re there, you will be surprised and amazed by the lively atmosphere along Jalan Alor. The street is filled with restaurants, food stalls, and kiosks with tables and chairs on the streets. There are varieties of food options and different kinds of cuisine to choose from.

Along the street, you can find Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thailand, Vietnam, and all ASEAN country food vendors that welcome your patron to taste the cuisine of their countries. You will be wondering are you in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, or any of the Asia countries!

Every night, the street comes alive with people chilling with the food offerings. You’ve got beers, seafood, fruits, skewers, desserts, and a lot of others. The price is slightly on the high side but the price tag is well marked on the menu. If this is not stated, please ask for it or look for another restaurant. 

What To Eat

Must-Eat Food in Jalan Alor

Among all, one should not miss the chicken wings at Wong Ah Wah Restaurant! The restaurant started the business almost 30 years ago and locals continue coming back for food. Their famous charcoal-grilled chicken wing is to die for. Highly recommended!

If you go to Kuala Lumpur, do not forget to include Jalan Alor in your itinerary as one of the must-visit places. Nice ambiance and is full of people going around. A unique food destination in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

Day 3 Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

Plan for a half-day trip to Batu Cave, National Zoo, or some of the best theme parks in the town on your last day of Kuala Lumpur itinerary. Choose one of the options for day 3 in KL or split it into more days for your KL trip excursion.

A half-day trip to Batu Caves is one of the favorite things to do in Kuala Lumpur for first-time visitors. The Hindu Temp is located inside the limestone cave. This KL attraction is trending on social media these few years due to its rainbow color staircases. Well worth climbing the 272 steps to get a closer look.

You can also spend your time in Zoo Negara and Sunway Lagoon Theme Park. Both are good for family and kids when visiting Malaysia.

Batu Cave

Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog - Batu Caves
Batu Caves

Located 13 km on the north side of KL, Batu Caves is one of the must-visit attractions in Kuala Lumpur for exploration. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, Batu Caves and the temples are sacred Hindu shrines for the local Hindu population.

On your visit, you will be greeted by the tall golden Murugan God complete with his enormous “vel” which you can see from a far distance. Be ready to climb from the bottom to the inside of the cave which houses a couple of temples.

Do come with proper and comfortable shoes as the journey up can be a challenge. There is a total of 272 colorful stairs that you need to step up to the depths of the caves. The rainbow colorful steps get all the attention and have become one of the popular backdrops for Instagrammers.

Inside Batu Caves

Hindu Temple inside Batu Caves
Inside Batu Caves

On your way up to the temples, the view is very beautiful. Besides, you may also possibly see wild monkeys along the way. Be careful as the wild monkeys will attempt to steal food or belongings from you.

The place is quite serene especially when there are hundreds of pigeons flying around the site. Take some time to walk around the other sites at the base and explore at your own pace. However, it is a bit overrun with people and monkeys and is under-maintained. Visit here if you want to experience escaping the city.

Estimate visiting time: 2 to 3 hours.

How To Get To Batu Cave: We recommended a taxi o e-hailing ride to get to the Batu Caves with costs about RM20, depending on the distance. There will be a long public transport ride to get to the site. You will need to get to the Batu Caves Station (KTM Seremban Line) and walk a few minutes to the Batu Caves. Alternatively, you can book a tour through Klook hassle-free arrangement although no guided tour is needed to get there.

Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves

Friendly reminder, Batu Caves is a religious place. Please be respectful of the devotees and dress appropriately. Do remember to cover up when visiting and no short shorts, revealing tops, or slippers.

National Zoo of Malaysia

Not too far from Batu Caves is the National Zoo of Malaysia. It is run by the Malaysian Zoological Society and almost 500 species are housed within. There are large varieties of animals are featured from minuscule to enormous including colorful birds, Malaysian tigers, elephants, giraffes, and more. It is one of Kuala Lumpur’s top wildlife attractions, however, to be honest, it is not well run and the facilities are poorly maintained.

Zoo Negara Admission Ticket (National Zoo of Malaysia)

But still, it is still good to wander through the open zoo and meet a giant panda. The Giant Panda Conservation Centre is the place where visitors can meet a couple of pandas that are so cute and adorable. The animal show is also interesting but can be improved with more interesting shows.

Animal Show in National Zoo of Malaysia

In short, the National Zoo of Malaysia is still worth the visit, especially for kids and families. It’s educational and informative for kids to learn about animals and wildlife. Don’t forget to carry water and light snacks as there is not many food options inside the zoo.

Estimate visiting time: 4 to 5 hours.

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Sunway Lagoon - KL itinerary

For family travelers with kids and teenagers, you can include the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park in your Kuala Lumpur itinerary. The Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is located in the suburb of Petaling Jaya, about 30 minutes away from the KL city. This local favorite location is part of the Sunway group where you spend time in Sunway Pyramid for shopping, looking for food, or staying in the Sunway Hotel.

Get Discounted Sunway Lagoon Ticket

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park has offered fun and visitors can experience not just a theme park but also a water park that is located on the same site. The complex includes theme park rides, interactive games, wave and surf pools, and even a zoo. It offers a great variety of slides, places where you can swim and relax, and kids’ water playgrounds. The experience was fun and memorable.

There are many food options, but mainly American food which is fries, Pizza, and burgers. It also has a few more local options where you can refill the energy to continue your adventure in the theme park.

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Overall, Sunway Lagoon is a very much enjoyable theme park and definitely worth spending some time to enjoy and have fun with friends and family. Highly recommend it to all kinds of travelers. Better come early to avoid bigger crowds and queues. The queue for the rides can be long. If you can buy the “Quak Express” ticket, go for it!

Kuala Lumpur Travel Tips: Watch out for discounted Sunway Lagoon tickets in Klook. The entrance ticket can be purchased at a cheaper price compared to on the spot. The annual ticket is also worth the money if you plan to come here more than 3 times!

More Kuala Lumpur Travel Tips

My final tip when planning for the Kuala Lumpur itinerary is to make your itinerary flexible. You might need to adjust the activities based on the weather condition. If you’re short of time, perhaps you might need to skip some of the attractions. Follow our Kuala Lumpur travel guide, you’ll still get to see most of the vibrant city!

Handy Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide

What is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur?
Malaysia is a tropical paradise with warm weather all year round; this is the same for Kuala Lumpur. The best time to visit Kuala Lumpur is between November and December. The weather is hot and humid, with an average of between 25C to 35C. Rain normally during the late afternoon, but it lasts for a short period.

What to wear when visiting Kuala Lumpur?
The weather in Kuala Lumpur is extremely hot and humid all year long, especially during the afternoon. Please wear lightly but appropriately when traveling in Kuala Lumpur.

Is Kuala Lumpur budget-friendly?
Kuala Lumpur is budget-friendly to suit the varied types of travelers. You can find low-cost accommodation with great cheap food when visiting KL. At the same time, KL is also full of high-class luxury activities and accommodation choices for your holiday gateway.

Do we need to tip in a restaurant?
In Malaysia, tipping is not required at restaurants. People don’t normally practice tipping as the food price is included with government tax and service charges.

Is Kuala Lumpur a safe city to visit?
Kuala Lumpur is a safe city to explore and wander. The locals are friendly and helpful. Same with other big cities, please always take care of your self belonging and beware of pick-pockets.

Overview: A Trip to Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide Blog

All in all, Kuala Lumpur definitely worth visiting. This lively city offers some amazing food and good nightlife. You can go shopping and explore historical sites. The locals are friendly and happy to help visitors. But you will need to plan what to do as KL is a big city.

In short, we hope you enjoy our 3 days Kuala Lumpur itinerary. Three days might not able to fit all the things to do in KL, but we try our best to introduce some of the city’s best sights that are good for your trip as a visitor. You might need to keep more days for food and attractions nearby the city. The itinerary is flexible and you can adjust based on your need and weather conditions. Thanks for reading my Kuala Lumpur travel guide blog and enjoy your trip to KL!

Lastly, I’d love to know if this Kuala Lumpur travel guide blog has helped you with your KL itinerary planning. Let me know if you have any questions and I’m happy to help.

Related KL travel blog and accommodation guide:

For the best food in KL:

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur KL

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur: Top 5 Best Areas

posted in: Malaysia | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Going to KL and looking for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? This is my best hotels pick and recommendation area for finding your perfect place to stay in KL.

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant and unique city that will most definitely be one of the highlights of your Malaysia vacation! The city has so much to offer, from mouthwatering food, incredible fun things, and cultural attractions, for sure you’ll find something for your holiday in KL.

In case you’re planning a trip there, you’ll probably want to find out where to stay in Kuala Lumpur. Listed below are some great hotels that I hand-picked especially for you. All of them are located in the most convenient areas in the city center with fabulous good reviews.

Plan your best stay with this handy KL accommodation guide – Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

Quick Guide for Where To Stay in KL

The best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur are Bukit Bintang or KLCC. Other good places to stay in KL are hotels nearby KL Central, Petaling Street (KL Chinatown), and Bangsar.

If you are hungry, here is a quick guide for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur:

Stay in Bukit Bintang or KLCC if you want to experience the vibrant city. These areas are the most central location in the city with plenty of shopping and dining options, plus easy access to the rest of the city. Bukit Bintang and KLCC are also the best places to stay for first-time visitors to KL.

Stay in KL Central if you are a quick stopover in the city. KL Sentral is the main transportation hub in the city and will give you the quickest access to the airport and to other destinations in Malaysia.

Stay in Petaling Street (KL Chinatown) if you want to discover and enjoy KL on a budget. It is the place to stay for street food, and night markets with the local vibe.

Stay in Bangsar for an off-the-beaten-track traveler. Bangsar is a lively neighborhood and features with city’s trendiest cafes and restaurants. The location is also good and not too far from the Kuala Lumpur city center.

Pro Tips: Make sure to book your hotel as far in advance as you can if you want to secure the perfect accommodation for you and save some money as well. You can search for hotels in Kuala Lumpur on Booking.com or Agoda. Check out some of the top-rated hotels in KL.

Editor Pick: Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Best Value Hotel at Bukit Bintang - Dorsett Kuala Lumpur

Editor’s Best Pick: One of the popular choices among travelers when looking for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur is the Dorsett Kuala Lumpur. The hotel is situated right in the heart of Bukit Bintang and super convenient to explore the city and nearby. It is only a very short walk to the Pavilion KL shopping mall and has easy access to MRT Bukit Bintang station. The excellent location makes sightseeing and transports seamless.

I personally choose to stay in Dorsett Kuala Lumpur when visiting KL. The hotel meets all my expectations for a wonderful stay in the KL city center with everything being easily accessible. Most importantly, the price is very reasonable. High recommended!

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur - Impiana KLCC Hotel
Room with Petronas Twin Tower View at Impiana KLCC Hotel

Editor’s Best Pick: Boasting spectacular views of KLCC, Impiana KLCC Hotel is perfectly located within walking distance of KLCC. Travelers can also walk to Pavilion and Bukit Bintang via a linked bridge connected with the area.

The property features a wide range of luxurious rooms with comfy beds. Each room is spacious, modern, and immaculately clean. The best value stays in KL when visiting Malaysia.

Bukit Bintang

The best area to stay in Kuala Lumpur for first-timers is Bukit Bintang. It is also one of the best and most convenient places to stay in the city. This area has plenty of shopping and dining options, plus a lively nightlife scene. Plus, the KL’s main attractions are a subway ride, making this the perfect base for day trips around the city.

Staying in Bukit Bintang means you are easily accessing KL’s main shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. The accommodation price in Bukit Bintang is usually slightly higher, but you can find plenty of great hotel options in this area. For more hotel options, check out below best hotels in Bukit Bintang.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – Bukit Bintang area:

Best Hotels in Bukit Bintang

Best Luxurious Stay - JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur

LuxuryJW Marriott Kuala Lumpur is a cool 5-star hotel and definitely the best place to stay in KL if you want to be in the center of the city. It is perfectly situated right opposite the Pavilion KL. Everything is exceptional for a perfect stay in KL.

Where To Stay - Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
Room View on Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur

High-Range: Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur is the best high-range option in Bukit Bintang. The property is a classic KL hotel that offers understated luxury in a great location. The location is superb and is located along Bintang Walk beside Pavilion Shopping Mall. Great stay in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city center.

Best Hotel in Bukit Bintang - WOLO Kuala Lumpur
New trendy boutique hotel – WOLO Kuala Lumpur

Mid-RangeWOLO Kuala Lumpur is a new trendy boutique hotel in Bukit Bintang. It offers accommodations within the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur’s city center and is very popular among travelers. The location is excellent and perfectly located in the heart of the Golden Triangle of KL city. It is very convenient and everything is within walking distance. The rooms are clean and the environment is also very cozy and comfy.  

Best Budget Stay - citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang
Best Budget Stay – citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang

Budget: If you’re looking for a mid-budget priced establishment, then citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang is the perfect option. The rooms are spacious and clean and equipped with comfortable beds. The property has a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge. Rooms are modern with the use of smart devices to control the room.

KLCC

Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) is another perfect place to stay for first-time travelers to the city. It is situated just north of Bukit Bintang and is home to the iconic Petronas Towers. This area offers many of the same conveniences and you’ll find plenty of shopping, dining options, and upmarket hotels.

If you’d like to stay in the KLCC area, then you can search for hotels on Booking.com or Agoda. Listed below are some of the top-rated hotels in KLCC.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – KLCC area:

Best Hotels in KLCC

Best Hotel at KLCC - W Kuala Lumpur Hotel
Room View on W Kuala Lumpur Hotel

Luxury: Stands just next to the Petronas Towers, W Kuala Lumpur Hotel is one of the perfect luxurious stays in KL. The hotel is located right in the center of Kuala Lumpur with a lot of attractions and restaurants nearby.

Rooms are spacious with modern lighting, furniture, and a nice bathroom. Plus, the hotel ambiance is very welcoming, and friendly staffs are ready to welcome your stay. A perfect place for families and business travelers.

Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur
Room View on Hotel Maya

High-Range: Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur offers accommodations in Kuala Lumpur opposite Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC. Visitors love this place with the close distance to KLCC and easy accessibility to everywhere in KL. The hotel is featured a luxurious setting with sleek room decor and comfortable beds for your vacation in KL. A perfect stay in KL with impeccable service at a reasonable price.

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur - The Bed KLCC
Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur on Budget- The Bed KLCC

Budget: The Bed KLCC is one of the recommended budget-friendly options for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget. This minimalist accommodation is perfectly located in the city center with many dining options nearby. You can walk to KLCC in just a few minutes or take the Monorail or free KL City Bus.

Choose from family rooms, private rooms, or private pods with shared bathrooms. A modern and clean hostel for your budget stays in KL.

KL Sentral

If you’re coming to Kuala Lumpur for a quick stopover before flying to another location, then stay in KL Sentral. is the main transportation hub in the city and will give you the quickest access to the airport and to other destinations in Malaysia. Travelers can get on trains and buses when getting around in the city. Plus, the Nu Central. one of the shopping malls nearby also offers plenty of dining options if you choose to stay in KL Sentral.

However, this area is also slightly chaotic due to the transport options are proximity. But you’ll find this area is best to stay in KL when looking for transportation and food options in the city.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – KL Sentral area:

Best Hotels in KL Sentral

Best Luxury Hotel at KL Sentral - Hilton Kuala Lumpur
Best Luxury Hotel at KL Sentral – Hilton Kuala Lumpur

Luxury: Hilton Kuala Lumpur is one of the popular picks when looking for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur. The hotel is connected to the KL Sentral with both train, bus, and airport connections. It makes the transportation arrangement extremely simple and easy, especially for travelers with a quick stopover in KL.

The room is spacious, clean, comfortable, and generously equipped with large flat-screen TVs. The friendly staff makes the customer experience exceptionally good when staying in the hotel.

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur - Scott Hotel KL Sentral
Basic Room at Scott Hotel KL Sentral

Budget: Scott Hotel KL Sentral is easily one of the best budget hotels in the KL Sentral. It is a basic hotel and has most of what you’ll need for a relaxing, comfortable stay. The bright, cheery interiors welcome you into this centrally located boutique hotel. Additionally, the KL Sentral is within a walking distance (around 750 meters) with free parking for guests.

KL Chinatown

Petaling Street is the old city Chinatown and the perfect place to see the authentic Chinese local life in KL. This area is very touristy with oozes teeming streets and full of markets, temples, fantastic cafes, and authentic eateries. You can always find a lot of mid-range and cheap hostels in the city.

Many budget travelers and backpackers will choose to stay in this area as the accommodation price tends to be cheaper in the city. You can always find a good deal if you choose to stay in Petaling Street or Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur.

However, please choose the accommodation carefully if you are looking for where to stay in the KL Chinatown area. Here is our carefully pick hotels when looking for where to stay in Petaling Street or Chinatown KL.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – Petaling Street / KL Chinatown area:

Best Hotels in Petaling Street KL

Best Hotel at KL - Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown
Room View on Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown

High-RangeFour Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown is located in a perfect location surrounded by great cafes and restaurants nearby. It is also within walking distance of Petaling Street and the MRT station nearby. The oriental-themed interior is beautiful and the rooms are spacious, with nice appliances. The property is very clean and modern-looking, making it very comfortable to stay in. Highly recommended if you are looking for where to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur - Travelodge City Centre
Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur – Travelodge City Centre

Mid-Range: If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay, Travelodge City Centre is the one that you are looking for. It is a beautiful 3-star hotel with very affordable rates. The bustling Central Market and Petaling Street are just a short stroll. Besides, you can always walk to the nearest metro and eateries nearby. A great value and perfect budget-friendly choice. Reserve your room early as it is always full of travelers!

Budget Hostel - Space Hotel Chinatown Kuala Lumpur
Capsule bed in Space Hotel Chinatown

BudgetSpace Hotel @ Chinatown Kuala Lumpur is one of the budget options in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur. This hostel with the unique concept of a simple bed capsule stays in the city. The property is clean and simple. Attentive staff and willing to help with any question about your trip to KL. Great value for solo or budget travelers in Kuala Lumpur.

Bangsar

For an off-the-beaten-track traveler, the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur has to be Bangsar. Bangsar is a lively neighborhood, features with city’s trendiest with its mix of bars, restaurants, hipster cafes, art galleries, and boutique clothing stores.

The location is also good and not too far from the Kuala Lumpur city center with 10 to 15 minutes of the ride. You can get to the KL attractions effortlessly by public transport or an e-hailing ride to the nearby attractions. Here are some of the top-rated hotels in Bangsar.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – Bangsar area:

Best Hotels in Bangsar

High-Range: Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar is a beautiful 5-star hotel at surprisingly affordable rates. It is located a short 10-minute stroll from Kerinchi LRT station. Alternatively, a convenient e-hailing ride will take you to any attractions in KL. The rooms are spacious and sport beautiful, modern interior, and come with a bathtub. Free parking for guests. Check rates & availability here!

Where To Stay in KL - Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur
Minimalist concept room at Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur

Another popular pick for the best hotels is the Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur. Located in a vibrant district, Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur offers 5-star accommodations above the hustle and bustle of the city. It is one of the best hotels in the Bangsar area, with gorgeous rooms and great design with a minimalist concept.

The room is spacious, clean, and comfortable. The property also has an outdoor pool and a cool terrace where you can relax after a full day of exploring Kuala Lumpur!

Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur - Cititel Mid Valley
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Bangsar Area – Cititel Mid Valley

Mid-Range: Cititel Mid Valley is an amazing 3-star accommodation and one of the best hotels in the Bangsar area. Shopaholics will be happy to know this hotel is situated just steps from Mid Valley Megamall, one of Malaysia’s popular shopping complexes where you can shop, eat, and stroll. It also has easy access to the Mid Valley Komuter Train Station, with a 5-minute walk from the property.

The room is very not too big, but modern and equipped with a mini-fridge, iron & kettle. All staffs are friendly and helpful. Highly recommended if you want to stay within the Bangsar area and attached to the shopping mall.

Overview: Where To Stay in Kuala Lumpur

All in all, we hope this article can help you to find the best stay that suits your travel style and budget when visiting Kuala Lumpur. This city is Malaysia’s busiest city and has many things to offer for all types of tourists. Again, we highly recommended staying in Bukit Bintang or KLCC area for travelers to Malaysia. The Dorsett Kuala Lumpur at Bukit Bintang and W Kuala Lumpur Hotel at KLCC are our best pick

If you’re looking for cheaper accommodations with great street food, then you may want to consider staying at Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown.

Lastly, if you want to find out more about this amazing country, you can find all my articles about Malaysia here.

For the best food in Kuala Lumpur:

Where To Stay in Koh Lipe

Where To Stay in Koh Lipe: Top 4 Best Places On Island

posted in: Thailand | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Planning a trip to Ko Lipe? We have spent time on to list down all the best hotels and resorts on the island for your perfect tropical island holiday. Here is a quick guide to finding your perfect place on the island – Where to stay in Koh Lipe.

Located in the southernmost of the Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe is one of Thailand’s best island paradises. It is home to gorgeous white sand beaches, breathtaking sea views, with smiling locals welcoming your visit. A perfect destination for a laid-back holiday.

When getting to Koh Lipe, for sure, there’s a lot to experience to enjoy for your holiday on this tropical island. Choosing your best stay in Koh Lipe becomes the most important task for your holiday. Koh Lipe is a tiny island, but surprisingly, there are a lot of options when choosing where to stay in Koh Lipe. Accommodation is available all over the island, with different budget ranges. From the luxury resorts, high-to-mid-range hotels, and beach huts, Koh Lipe has something for everyone. You’ll need to choose your ideal accommodation for your island holiday.

Make the most of your trip to Thailand’s tropical island paradise with this accommodation guide on the best resorts and where to stay in Koh Lipe.

Quick Tips: Where To Stay in Koh Lipe

There are a few main places to stay in Koh Lipe for first-timers, which are Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, Pattaya Beach, and lastly Koh Lipe Walking Street. Each of the places has its own beauty and features to enjoy. Depending on your requirements, there are many accommodation options to choose from in each place. Since the island is pretty small, no matter what you’ll choose you won’t be secluded.

Plan your Koh Lipe gateway easy – here’s where to stay in Koh Lipe and why.

If you prefer fewer crowds and with tropical island atmosphere, stay in Sunrise Beach. This area is also convenient as it is connected with Walking Street with all the restaurants and shops situated. There are many beach-front resorts and hut-like bungalows to choose from. The perfect mix of relaxation and convenience.

Sunset Beach is the isolated, quietest, and most tranquil area on Koh Lipe. Staying here means you’ll be able to witness the stunning sunset over the sea. It is lesser foot traffic from visitors, the perfect place to stay in Koh Lipe for a truly laid-back holiday.

Pattaya Beach is the main beach and also the busiest area on the Koh Lipe. Ferries and speedboats mostly will be landed in this area, so this is very convenient to walk to the lodging when arriving in Koh Lipe. It has the most seafront beach restaurants and bars along the beach. Best place to stay in Koh Lipe for the party vibe.

If you are looking for where to stay in Koh Lipe on a budget, the walking street is the one that you’re looking for. Most of the budget accommodations and hostels will be situated along the street. Besides, make sure to read the description that rooms are offer with fan and cold water, or rooms with air conditioning and hot water when you find those budget accommodations. Some properties will offers cheaper prices without provided those ameties.

Sunrise Beach

In our opinion, the best place to stay on Koh Lipe is Sunrise Beach. The reason is simple, the name says it all. Sunrise beach will pamper you with the beautiful sunrise view, from the sandy white beach and beautiful emerald color seawater. Additionally, Sunrise Beach is also very convenient when getting around the island. The walking street is connected at the end of this area with a 5-minute stroll.

For a laid-back island holiday, you may consider the hut-like bungalow accommodations along the beachfront along Sunrise Beach. It is less touristy with fewer crowds and features with stunning sea view.

Ten Moons Lipe Resort

Best Stay in Sunrise Beach - Ten Moons Lipe Resort

Ten Moons Lipe Resort is situated in the best spot on the island. It has a beautiful beach and staying here will be rewarded with the best beach and great view every day. Guests also can use all snorkel gear. Besides, a short walk will bring you to the town or you can enjoy your time by strolling down the beach.

Ten Moons Lipe Resort is a very well-run, amazing resort. The staff are extremely kind and helpful. The restaurant is open from 7 am till late for meals and drinks. Recommended Ten Moons Lipe Resort for a relaxing beach gateway.

Lipe Beach Resort

Best Island Stay - Lipe Beach Resort
Best Island Stay – Lipe Beach Resort

Lipe Beach Resort is one of the best places to stay in Ko Lipe for those who want to be close to a quiet, beautiful beach with a gorgeous coral reef out front. The location is fantastic, right on the beautiful sunrise beach and away from the main street’s noise. Great value for money and definitely recommended for a stay in Koh Lipe!

Click here to book your stay at Lipe Beach Resort.

Cabana Lipe Beach Resort

Best Place To Stay - Cabana Lipe Beach Resort

Cabana Lipe Beach Resort is a perfect option when choosing where to stay in Koh Lipe, The property is right on the beachfront where you can walk to the beach easily. It also features sunrise viewing where you get to enjoy the great view from the room every morning. While breakfast is served to your room daily and it is exciting to find out how you would start the day. The staff is also very helpful and friendly. Great value for money and definitely recommended for a stay in Koh Lipe!

This is where I stayed during my island holiday to Koh Lipe. Highly recommended!

Pattaya Beach

Pattaya Beach is the busiest place in Koh Lipe and has the most bars and restaurants. You can easily find food and drink in this area. This popular beach also has many accommodation options at cheaper prices. However, take note that Pattaya Beach is the place where the ferry comes in during the high season, making it slightly noisier compared with others beaches in Koh Lipe.

Bundhaya Resort

Where To Stay in Koh Lipe - Bundhaya Resort

Bundhaya Resort is a beautiful beachfront resort located nearby walking street. It is right besides the ferry boat drop off on Pattaya Beach, so you can get to the resort easily. Air-conditioned rooms and bungalows are constructed entirely out of wood and surrounded by tropical greenery. You will have your breakfast buffet with amazing seaview everyday!

Check the availability and book your room at the Bundhaya Resort.

Castaway Resort Koh Lipe

Where To Stay in Koh Lipe - Castaway Resort

Castaway Resort Koh Lipe is a super beautiful traditional style beach hut located on Pattaya Beach. The tropical vibes await guests to stay in these wooden bungalows made with natural materials.

The building is made with the traditional Thai design where you can get the natural freeze from the sea wind or help with the ceiling fan. The location is excellent which is right next to the beach and only a few minutes walk to the walking street. A great pick for those who look for tranquillity stay in Koh Lipe.

AKIRA Lipe Resort

Best Koh Lipe Hotel - AKIRA Lipe Resort
Best Stay in Koh Lipe – AKIRA Lipe Resort

AKIRA Lipe Resort is one of the popular picks for where to stay in Koh Lipe. The luxurious bungalow boasted of a beachfront location and is within walking distance to the lively walking street. There are 3 well-designed swimming pools, a garden, a gym, and a kids’ club, making it very suitable for family with kids. All the staff making their best to make you feel like their valued guests.

Everything on Akira is absolutely amazing! Click here to book your stay at AKIRA Lipe Resort.

Sunset Beach

If you’re planning for a truly laid-back tropical island holiday and wandering where to stay in Koh Lipe for a few days or weeks, I would suggest you to go for the Sunset beach. That is not many accommodation options as this area is more isolated. That’s mean less people and less tourism compared to the Pataya Beach and walking street area.

Here are the few recommendation hotels on and around Sunset Beach:

Bayview Sunset

Where To Stay in Koh Lipe - Bayview Sunset

Bayview Sunset is the perfect hotel for you if you want to escape the city chaos. It has the older Thai-style wooden Bungalows located in a very beautiful green area with great privacy. But you will stay can still have beautiful views from the sea view room.

Bayview Sunset is located right by the sunset beach and you’ll also find a good snorkeling spot in front of the hotel. The bed is super comfy and the staffs are very helpful.

The Cliff Lipe

Sunset Beach - The Cliff Lipe

The Cliff Lipe is the best place to stay if you are looking for a relaxing stay at the beautiful island. Perched atop a scenic cliff, your stay in Cliff Lipe features with stunning blue sea of the Sunset beach. You could also rent the kayaks and snorkels for free from the owner. The property also has the private beach where you can chill out or sunbathing on the beach leisurely.

Click here to book your stay at The Cliff Lipe.

Longbay Lipe

Longbay Lipe Sunset Beach

Longbay Lipe is a 2-star guest house, offers air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom and all rooms feature with seaview. The locations is situated between the Sunrise beach and Sunset Beach with 10-minutes walking distance from the hotel. It is a bit hidden in the jungle and isolated from the noise. A place to stay for travelers who want to away from hustle and bustle of the city life.

Koh Lipe Walking Street

Most of the time, the beachfront hotels will be more expensive, but you can also find some good deals from the hotels along Walking Street. The walking Street is a great place to stay for budget travelers. This area is connected the Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach. So you will be within walking distance to all the remaining main spots if you choose your accommodation on the walking street.

Here is the best pick for a budget stay in Koh Lipe’s Walking Street:

Sangchan hostel

Where To Stay in Koh Lipe On Budget - Sangchan hostel
Where To Stay in Koh Lipe On Budget – Sangchan hostel

Sangchan Hostel is one of the popular budget accommodations on the Koh Lipe. It is centrally located in the middle of all the action but far enough from all the noise and the people. Everything is within 5-10 minutes of walking distance and easy to access all the beaches on foot. The host is very welcoming and helpful. The rooms are clean and hygienic.

Excellent value for someone looking for a vacation on a budget. Highly recommended by all the guests for a budget stay in Koh Lipe.

Final Tips on Where To Stay in Koh Lipe

What part of Koh Lipe is best to stay in for first-time visitors?

For first-time visitors, Sunrise Beach or Pattaya Beach is generally the best place to stay in Koh Lipe. Beaches here feature a stunning sea view and yet are convenient for getting around with restaurants, bars, and shops accessibility easily.

Should I stay in Sunrise Beach or Pattaya Beach?

We highly recommended staying in Sunrise Beach compared to Pattaya Beach. Sunrise Beach is more private, and tranquil, featuring the best sunrise view every morning. There are many mid-range accommodation options to choose from for your island gateway holiday.

Where to stay in Koh Lipe on a budget?

The Koh Lipe Walking Street has most of the budget accommodations in Koh Lipe. But staying here does not offer sea view and beach. But you can walk to the nearby beaches easily.

Overview: Koh Lipe Best Stay

All in all, we hope this accommodation guide can help you to decide where to stay in Koh Lipe. We highly recommended to stay in the beachfront accommodation for an island experience that you won’t regret it. Our editor’s pick is the AKIRA Lipe Resort on Pattaya Beach and Ten Moons Lipe Resort on Sunrise Beach. Get the one best suit for your island gateway!

Friendly reminder to all who looking for accommodation to stay in Ko Lipe. Like most of Thailand, prices fluctuate greatly based on the season. Prices might be a bit higher during peak season and you might need to book further in advance to make sure you find a great place. If you’re on a budget it would be best to avoid peak season, which is December to February. The prices during peak season can be double or triple compared to the low season.

Planning a trip to Thailand? Check out these travel blog for your trip to Thailand.

Island Holiday in Koh Lipe:

Island Holiday in Phuket:

Travel to Bangkok:

Koh Lipe Travel Guide

Things To Do in Koh Lipe Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Thailand | 0

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

The ultimate Koh Lipe Travel Guide includes the perfect itinerary for your holiday gateway. We will show you how to get to Koh Lipe from various transportation options, things to do, what to eat, and where to stay in this Koh Lipe travel blog. Stay tuned!

Located 60 km from the mainland, Koh Lipe is the most southern island in Thailand. It is popular among beach lovers and is known as the Maldives of Thailand. Every year, thousands of international travelers and locals are flocks to the island to enjoy the sunshine, crystal clear turquoise waters, and pristine beaches.

Compared with other famous islands in Thailand, Koh Lipe’s atmosphere is not as happening as Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, or Krabi. But Koh Lipe has some great things that make the island unique in its own right. The tropical island is calm and surrounded by laid-back vibes. With clear-crystal waters and white sand beaches, beautiful sunrises at the beginning of the day, and a great sunset to end your day, Ko Lipe is the best place for an island gateway.

While in Koh Lipe, there are many relaxing things to do and areas you can consider visiting depending on what you’re interested in. Below I’ve picked out some of the highlights and best beaches that are frequently visited by visitors when traveling to Ko Lipe. Here is our in-depth Koh Lipe Travel Guide.

Best Time to Visit Ko Lipe

Best Time To Visit Koh Lipe

Ko Lipe is great to visit all year round. However, the best time to visit Koh Lipe is between November and April. During this time, the weather is pleasant with good sunshine and calm warm water. It is very ideal for beach activities, such as swimming, boating, and sunbathing.

From December to February, these few months are the peak season for Koh Lipe. We recommended booking your ferry ticket and accommodation in advance, especially on weekends and the public holidays in Thailand and South East Asia. Many locals and tourists will flock to Ko Lipe for the beach holidays and weekend gateway.

From June to October, these few months are the low season for Koh Lipe. It is also the monsoon season with more rainy days during these few months. It is less crowded with cheaper accommodation prices. But be aware that some shops and ferry arrangements will be temporarily closed due to fewer visitors and rough sea.

How To Get To Koh Lipe

Ferry from and to Koh Lipe

Honestly, it is not that easy to get to Koh Lipe due to the weather and season. Depending on where is your departure location, there are various transportation options available to get to Koh Lipe. Once you arrive for your Koh Lipe itinerary, you can get to your hotel by just walking, paying 50 baht for a speedboat, a scooter ride, or arranging for pick-up from the hotel.

We had listed down the best way to get to Koh Lipe from Bangkok, Hatyai, Phuket, Krabi, and Langkawi at different seasons in the below section of the Koh Lipe Travel Guide.

All Seasons

From Bangkok, Hatyai to Koh Lipe:

The nearest airport to get to Koh Lipe is Hatyai Airport. Travelers can take the domestic flight from Bangkok and to the Hatyai airport, and next take a shuttle bus to Pak Bara Pier which takes you around 120 minutes at 250 baht. Finally, take the ferry to Ko Lipe at 650 bath. You can use the Skyscanner to find the best flight times and prices when looking for a flight ticket to Hatyai, or anywhere around the world.

Use Skyscanner to find the Best Flight Deal

While the ferry to Koh Lipe from Pak Bara is at 11:30 all year-round and arrives at Ko Lipe at 13:00. The ferry fare usually costs you around 650 baht for an adult and for children (ages 3-10) is 350 baht. Usually, you can buy the combination ticket which combined the flight + shuttle (van) + ferry ticket all together in one joint ticket.

Ko Lipe Travel Guide Tips: Pak Bara is the only place where you can get to Ko Lipe at any time of the year. Certain other places are closed during the monsoon season. Please make sure to arrive at Pak Bara Pier before 11:30, else you will miss the daily ferry to Ko Lipe.

How To Get To Koh Lipe

Only During High Season

From Langkawi to Ko Lipe:

Due to the strategic location of Ko Lipe which lies at the border between Malaysia and Thailand, travelers also can get to Ko Lipe from Langkawi, Malaysia by ferry during the high season. You can first fly to Langkawi International Airport, and then take the boat to Koh Lipe.

From Langkawi, you can choose to depart from Telaga or Jeti Kuah. Both offer two daily ferries with departing times where you can depart at 9:30 or 14:30 and arrive at Koh Lipe at 10:00 or 15:00 respectively per local time. The ferry takes you 150 minutes with a 1-hour time zone difference between Malaysia and Thailand.

From Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Krabi to Ko Lipe:

If you are doing island hopping, you can also get to Ko Lipe easily by those islands in the Andaman Sea tied with Koh Lipe. You can book the shuttle and ferry combination ticket from a local agent when you get there, or reserve with an island hopping tour.

The journey takes approximately 5-7 hours at costs from ฿2000 to ฿4000 to Koh Lipe, varied by transportation.

Where To Stay

Trip to Koh Lipe

Next, let’s talk about that where is the best places to stay when visiting Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe. Being one of the island paradises, Koh Lipe has all kinds of accommodations for all budgets. The prices fluctuate greatly based on the season and they can double or triple during the peak season, especially when the rooms running out. So it is best to reserve your stay in advance.

I’ve been to Koh Lipe and my favorite place to stay in Koh Lipe is Sunrise beach. It is considered the most beautiful beach on the island and has the most stunning sea view I’ve seen! Alternatively, you can use an accommodation guide to find your best stay – Where To Stay in Koh Lipe: Top 4 Best Places On Island.

Our suggested accommodations in Sunrise Beach, Koh Lipe:

Staying in Ten Moons Lipe Resort means features the arguably best views on the island each morning and the softest sand on the island.

Cabana Lipe Beach Resort is a perfect, small sea view front resort. Laid-back atmosphere, comfy accommodations, friendly staff, and everything you need for a relaxing gateway.

Lipe Beach Resort is for those who want to be close to a quiet, beautiful beach with a gorgeous coral reef out front. Great value for money and definitely recommended for a stay in Koh Lipe!

Best Beaches on Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe Best Beach
Koh Lipe Best Beach – Sunrise Beach

Koh Lipe is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. Located in the southernmost of the Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe is the place you can dream about island holidays in Thailand. The tiny island is surrounded by white sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters well-preserved with underwater life. 

Koh Lipe has a remote, island charm vibe for your perfect island escape. It has three main beaches, named Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and Pattaya Beach, and also many small beaches and private beaches. At the same time, Koh Lipe is developed and well-built with all of the amenities that you need to have a comfortable vacation. Various budget hostels, hotels, and resorts are available for you to stay on the Koh Lipe island.

Sunrise Beach

As the name said, Sunrise Beach is the best place for watching the sun rising on Koh Lipe. It is the longest beach on Koh Lipe and this is also where most of the beachfront resorts are located.

We really like Sunrise Beach very much. The beach is particularly stunning during the sunrise. You can enjoy the beach by swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, or doing nothing but just relaxing on the beach.

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach - Koh Lipe Itinerary

Sunset Beach is where you can enjoy the amazing views and the best sunsets at one of the quiet secluded hotels. White sandy beach with turquoise blue waters. Sunset beach is truly a relaxing beach that will give you a calm island vibe. The location is slightly away from the main action where you will need around 15 minutes to the walking street. Alternatively, get a quick scooter ride at 50 baht.

Pattaya Beach

The lively Pattaya Beach is the busiest beach on the island. It has several resorts and affordable accommodation if you want to stay in the lively area of Koh Lipe. The main pier, immigration office, and many beachfront bars and restaurants can be found in the area. It is also where Walking Street started from, making it easy to look for food and activities on the island.

Pattaya Beach is slightly noisy for people, boat boarding during the daytime. But this area is nice for a drink or dinner on the beach

Koh Lipe Walking Street

Koh Lipe Walking Street

The “Koh Lipe Walking Street” is basically the only business street in Koh Lipe, lined with guesthouses, shops, eateries, bars, 7-elevens, pharmacies, and massage parlors. It connected Pattaya beach and Sunrise beach, which takes you around 10 to 20 minutes from one-end walk to another end. 

At night, the walking street is alive and many visitors will come here for food, drink, and massage.

Best Seafood Restaurant in Koh Lipe
Best Thai Food in Koh Lipe

If you are looking for what and where to eat in Koh Lipe, we highly recommended The Rak-Lay Restaurant. Located in the middle of Lipe Walking Street, Rak-Lay is the most popular restaurant in Koh Lipe, serving the best seafood in Thai style at a reasonable price. We enjoyed the barbeque and grilled fish, and Thai salad here.

Take note that Pak-Lay is a Halal eatery with no alcohol served. Long queue always and be ready to wait.

Things To Do in Koh Lipe

Things To Do in Koh Lipe Travel Guide

Without a doubt, all the best things to do in Koh Lipe are fully enjoying the tropical island paradise. Here you can swim, sunbathe, kayak, snorkel, dive, or do nothing but lie comfortably on the white sandy beach. It gives you the unwinding time to enjoy the amazing sand, water, and beach.

Snorkeling or diving – If you love the ocean and underwater life, you can choose snorkeling or diving. There are many dive sites and dive centers if you enjoy diving or plan to take a driving license. Alternatively, you can rent snorkeling gear to snorkel at the nearby beach or join a snorkeling tour to see the beautiful coral reefs closer.

Koh Lipe Island Hopping Tour

Kayaking or paddle-boating – Many beach bars and resorts do offer kayaks or paddleboats for rent for very reasonable prices per hour or per day. It is very adventurous. But please make sure you are experienced and check the weather and currents before doing this.

Watching sunrise and sunset on the island – It is so nice to kick start your day in Koh Lipe. Simply walk to Sunrise Beach or stay right at the beachfront resort to welcome the sunshine. In the evening, watch the sun going below the horizon at Sunset Beach. Sunset beach is slightly isolated and harder to get there. But it is worth checking out at the beach.

While in Koh Lipe, day trips to the surrounding islands are popular and recommended. Crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling or just swimming about. One of the must-do for every

More Koh Lipe Travel Guide Tips

Looking for more quick travel tips for Koh Lipe? Read our easy tips at this Koh Lipe Travel Guide here!

How many days for Koh Lipe?

At least 3 days! It is not easy to get to Koh Lipe you might as well stay for at least three days.

Where are the best places to stay in Koh Lipe?

We recommended staying either in Pattaya Beach or Sunrise Beach. These two places have more accommodation options and a perfect mix of excitement and an island vibe.

Is Koh Lipe safe?

Locals are very friendly in Koh Lipe. We feel safe when walking around in island even at night, or waiting for sunrise at the beach before the dawn. But still, always be a precaution when traveling to other countries.

How to get to Koh Lipe from Thailand?

We recommended first flying to the Hatyai airport and then taking a shuttle bus to Pak Bara Pier which takes you around 120 minutes of road journey. From there, take the speedboat to Koh Lipe.

How to get to Koh Lipe from Langkawi?

From Langkawi, you can choose to depart from Telaga or Jeti Kuah. The journey takes you around 150 minutes. However, it only operates during the high season, which is October to June.

Is Koh Lipe Worth the Visit?

Koh Lipe Travel Blog

Koh Lipe is the best place for a relaxing gateway and the whole island has a very relaxed feel to it. However, Koh Lipe getting more commercialized which has rather spoilt the Island. Litter was an issue where you can see the rubbish and plastic that washes up on beaches. Longtail boats make getting to Koh Lipe easier and more convenient. But it also makes swimming and snorkeling become dangerous.

Aside from these, Koh Lipe is still worth a visit. Be prepared for stunning sea views, and laidback vibes island gateway in Koh Lipe!

Overview: A Trip to Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe Itinerary

All in all, a trip to Koh Lipe is the best way to experience the tropical island paradise. From the beautiful pristine bays and emerald blue water, Koh Lipe is just as beautiful as you see in the pictures. It is not a party island, but a place for relaxing. We enjoyed our stay at Cabana Lipe Beach Resort with a great sea view. A great place to kick back and relax. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to come back again soon!

Are you planning your trip to Koh Lipe? We hope our Koh Lipe travel guide blog is able to help you get prepared for your trip to this tropical island. Thanks for reading.

Looking for accommodation in Koh Lipe? Here is our quick and easy guide.

Island Holiday in Phuket:

Travel to Bangkok:

Koh Lipe Travel Guide Blog