North Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in North, Kuala Lumpur with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions, natural wonders, to delicious food, you'll find everything you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to North

North is a bustling district located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. Situated on the West Coast of the country, North is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic insight into the local culture, beautiful outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in North

If you are planning to visit North, here are some of the must-visit places you don’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The National Museum of Malaysia: This museum showcases Malaysia’s rich history and culture, including exhibits on traditional costumes, weapons, and musical instruments.
  • Istana Negara: A beautiful palace, which serves as the official residence of the King of Malaysia.
  • Batu Caves: A series of caves and Hindu temples situated on a limestone hill. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Titiwangsa Lake Gardens: A lush park surrounding several man-made lakes. Enjoy boating, jogging, and cycling while appreciating the stunning vistas.
  • Bukit Tabur: A popular spot for hiking enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the city skyline and lush verdant forests.
  • KL Forest Eco Park: A spectacular rainforest park that will transport you to a world of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

If you are an avid outdoor adventurer, North is the perfect place for you. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes you can take:

  • Bukit Kiara: A running and cycling paradise, where you can enjoy stunning scenery while working up a sweat.
  • Bukit Gasing Forest Reserve: This forest reserve offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels, with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

North offers plenty of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do while in North:

  • Kuala Lumpur City Tour: This tour takes you on a journey through the city’s landmarks, including the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka Square, and the KL Tower.
  • Street Food Tour: Enjoy a unique culinary adventure with this tour that takes you to the best street food stalls in North.
  • Traditional Dance Performance: Enjoy a traditional dance performance that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

If you are planning to spend a week in North, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your stay:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the National Museum of Malaysia and explore the Kuala Lumpur city center.
Day 2 Take a street food tour and visit the Batu Caves.
Day 3 Explore the Bukit Tabur and enjoy its scenic views.
Day 4 Go on a hiking trip to Bukit Kiara.
Day 5 Visit the Istana Negara and the KL Forest Eco Park.
Day 6 Take a traditional dance performance tour and enjoy the local culture.
Day 7 Relax at the Titiwangsa Lake Gardens and do some cycling or jogging.

Food and Drink Scene of North

Malaysia has a vibrant culinary scene, and North is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nasi Lemak: A fragrant coconut-milk based rice dish, served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and cucumber.
  • Satay: Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically chicken or beef, served with a peanut sauce.
  • Roti Canai: A type of flatbread served with spicy dipping curry.

Local Beverages

  • Teh Tarik: A sweet and creamy milk tea, pulled from a height to create a frothy foam.
  • Sirap Bandung: A rose-flavored milk drink that is refreshing and a great way to beat the heat.
  • Keropok: Deep-fried crackers, usually made from fish or prawn, and crispy and delicious.

Where to Stay in North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North has plenty of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some top picks:

  • Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur: A chic and elegant hotel with a rooftop bar and pool.
  • 1000 Miles Hotel: A cosy and comfortable budget hotel that is conveniently located near North’s major attractions.
  • Reggae Mansion Kuala Lumpur: A popular backpacker hostel that offers private rooms, dorms, and a rooftop bar.

What to Buy in North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to take some souvenirs home from North, here are some of the local products you should consider buying:

  • Batik: Traditional Malaysian fabric that comes in vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
  • Palm Sugar: Made from the sap of palm trees, this sugar is a staple in Malaysian cooking and adds a unique sweetness to dishes.
  • Durian: Known as the “King of Fruits”, this pungent fruit is a must-try for those with a daring palate.

Local Culture and Customs of North

In North, the official language is Bahasa Malaysia, but English is widely spoken. Malaysians follow an Islamic culture, and it is important to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Alcohol is permitted but only consumed in designated areas.

Best Time to Visit North

North is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between May and August when the weather is dry and pleasant. The monsoon season lasts from November to February and can bring heavy rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts that will help you navigate and enjoy your stay in North:

Do:

  • Dress modestly while visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  • Try the street food and the local delicacies.
  • Bargain for good deals in the markets and street stalls.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or over-crowd public transportation.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Drink and drive.

Safety and Health

Here are some important tips to ensure your safety and health while visiting North:

Safety in North

  • Be cautious of pickpockets and keep your valuables safe.
  • Avoid carrying too much cash or wearing expensive jewelry while exploring the city.
  • Keep your passports and important documents in a safe place.

Health in North

  • Drink bottled water and ensure the water you drink is safe.
  • Get vaccinated before coming to Malaysia.
  • Apply mosquito repellent to avoid dengue fever.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the transportation options you can take to reach North:

Airports Near North

  • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is the main airport that serves North and is located about 65 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near North

  • Hentian Putra Bus Station: The main bus station that serves North and is located near the city center.

Other Options

  • Grab: Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, is a convenient way to travel around the city at a reasonable price.
  • LRT: The Light Rail Transit system is an affordable way to explore Kuala Lumpur’s major attractions.

How to Get Around in North

North has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis. Grab and LRT are convenient options too. You can also rent a bike or a car if you prefer self-exploration.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you are planning to extend your trip, here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can visit:

  • Malacca: A historic city that is a UNESCO World Heritage site, located about 150 km from North.
  • Cameron Highlands: A picturesque hill station known for tea plantations and strawberry farms, located about 200 km from North.

Conclusion

North, Kuala Lumpur is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and mouth-watering cuisine. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan a memorable trip to North.