South Travel Guide

Discover the must-visit attractions, food scene, where to stay, safety tips, getting around, and more in this comprehensive travel guide to South Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.


Introduction to South

South Kuala Lumpur is a district located in the West Coast of Malaysia, in Southeast Asia. It offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. This travel guide serves as a comprehensive resource for anyone planning to visit South.

List of Places to Visit in South

Here are some of the top attractions to explore in South Kuala Lumpur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum
  • Istana Negara (National Palace)
  • Sultan Abdul Samad Building
  • Thean Hou Temple
  • St. John’s Cathedral

Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve
  • Perdana Botanical Gardens
  • Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
  • Petronas Twin Towers
  • Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower

Hiking/Biking Routes of South

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are several hiking and biking trails to explore. These include:

  • Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve Trail
  • Taman Tugu Forest Trail
  • Kiara Hills Trail

Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in South Kuala Lumpur:

  • Batu Caves Tour
  • Food Tours
  • River Cruises
  • Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck
  • Kuala Lumpur City Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for South

To make the most of your visit to South Kuala Lumpur, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Explore National Museum, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, and Thean Hou Temple
2 Visit Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve and Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower
3 Walk around Perdana Botanical Gardens and visit Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
4 Learn about Malaysian history at Istana Negara and attend a batik-making workshop
5 Take a food tour and experience Kuala Lumpur’s street food culture
6 Visit Petronas Twin Towers and take in the beautiful views
7 Visit St. John’s Cathedral and Kiara Hills Trail

Food and Drink Scene of South

One of the best ways to experience a city’s culture is through its food and South Kuala Lumpur is no exception. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nasi Lemak
  • Roti Canai
  • Char Kway Teow
  • Satay
  • Rojak

Local Beverages

  • Teh Tarik
  • Milo Dinosaur
  • Bandung
  • Air Mata Kucing
  • Cendol

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

There are several accommodation options in South Kuala Lumpur to suit every budget. Here are some of the best:

  • Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur: A luxurious option with a rooftop pool and bar.
  • Reggae Mansion: A budget-friendly hostel with a cool vibe and rooftop bar.
  • citizenM Kuala Lumpur: A modern and stylish hotel with affordable prices.
  • Sekeping Tenggiri: A unique guesthouse with a peaceful atmosphere and decor.

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

If you want to bring a piece of South Kuala Lumpur home with you, here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy:

  • Batik fabric
  • Handmade crafts
  • Traditional Malay clothing
  • Malaysian snacks and sweets
  • Pewter products

Local Culture and Customs of South

Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques and temples.
  • Remove your shoes before entering a home or temple.
  • Do not eat or drink in public during the holy month of Ramadan.
  • Avoid showing affection in public.
  • Do not point with your feet, as it’s considered rude.

Best Time to Visit South

South Kuala Lumpur can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to July when the weather is dry and pleasant. Avoid visiting from November to January as it can be rainy and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of South

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting South Kuala Lumpur:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets and street vendors.
  • Practice safety measures when doing outdoor activities.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Sample the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.
  • Use your left hand to offer or receive something, as it’s considered rude.
  • Use your feet to point at someone or something.
  • Drink tap water, as it’s not safe for consumption.
  • Take pictures without seeking permission first.

Safety and Health

It’s generally safe to travel to South Kuala Lumpur, but it’s important to take necessary safety precautions. Here are some safety and health tips for visitors:

Safety in South

  • Avoid walking alone in quiet areas or poorly-lit streets.
  • Keep your belongings close to you at all times in crowded areas.
  • Be cautious of pickpockets or thefts in tourist areas.
  • Do not leave your valuables unattended in your hotel room.
  • Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Health in South

  • Drink bottled water to avoid contracting water-borne diseases.
  • Apply mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus.
  • Seek medical attention in case of emergency.
  • Pack any necessary medications with you.
  • Familiarize yourself with the location of hospitals or clinics in the area.

Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the different ways to get to South Kuala Lumpur:

Airports Near South

  • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
  • Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB)

Bus Stations Near South

  • Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS)
  • Hentian Duta Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Take a taxi or Grab (ride-hailing app) from Kuala Lumpur city center to South.
  • Hire a private car transfer from the airport.

How to Get Around in South

Getting around South Kuala Lumpur is easy and convenient. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

  • Take the train: The MRT (mass rapid transit) and LRT (light rail transit) systems provide easy access to most tourist attractions in the city.
  • Ride a bus: The bus network in Kuala Lumpur is extensive and affordable.
  • Take a taxi: Taxis are easily available, but make sure to use a metered taxi or agree on the fare before getting in.
  • Rent a car: Renting a car is a convenient option if you prefer to explore at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time, consider visiting these nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Batu Caves: Located about 13 kilometers north of South, Batu Caves is a series of limestone caves and Hindu temples.
  • Putrajaya: The administrative capital of Malaysia is located about 20 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur and is known for its modern architecture and beautiful parks.
  • Genting Highlands: Located about an hour’s drive from South, Genting Highlands is a popular hill resort known for its theme parks, casinos, and scenic views.

Conclusion

South Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant and dynamic district that offers an unforgettable travel experience. With this comprehensive travel guide, you will be able to plan your trip to South with ease and make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of Malaysia.