This is definitely a must on your to-do list when in Kuala Lumpur. Discover temples, art, markets and all the best things to do with our ultimate guide to Petaling Street, the vibrant Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur.
Petaling Street, or Chinatown KL, is a vibrant attraction that invites tourists and locals to explore its bustling markets, beautiful art, and religious landmarks. This beginner’s guide to Petaling Street will help you better discover Malaysia’s capital city.
History of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown
Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown has a century-old history. It has evolved with time as the capital blossomed into a metropolis lined with skyscrapers. The birth of Chinatown was on the Market Square along the High Street, also known as the Jalan Tun HS Lee. Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown became popular around the 19th century as its cultural significance grew among the community. The geographical location, as the street is higher than the rest of town, was less prone to floods, attracting the wealthier population to move and build their shophouses.
Best time to visit Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown
While opening hours vary for each shop, most of the market opens by 10 am. The market wraps up around 6 pm, with preparations for the night market. The evening is the liveliest, with street food vendors serving fresh and hot delicacies. The night market typically runs from 6 pm to midnight over the weekends.
Timings: 8 am-8 pm from Sunday to Friday and 8 am-10 pm on Saturdays.
How to reach Petaling Street
Petaling Street’s central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.
- By RapidKL: The Pasar Seni station is nearest to Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. It is served by the LRT Kelana Jaya Line and MRT Kajang Line.
- By Monorail: Maharajalela Station is close to Petaling Street.
- By bus: Kota Raya, Kotaraya KL and Lai Foong Restaurant are the bus stops for the market.
Discover urban Malaysia through this guide to Klang Valley.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown
Witness the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
Dedicated to the Goddess Mariamman, the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple was founded in 1873 and has been an important religious site ever since. The temple’s unique design attracts tourists who marvel at its distinguished architecture. It stands as the oldest Hindu temple in the city.
Timings: 6 am-1 pm and 4 pm-9 pm from Sunday to Friday; 9 am-9 pm on Saturdays
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Book your stay at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur via Agoda
Visit REXKL for art and culture
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The historical building of REX Cinema has been redesigned into REXKL, where entertainment meets arts and culture. The modern building is an avenue for art exhibitions, dining, shopping and more.
Timings: 8:30 am-10 pm on weekdays and 8:30 am-12 pm on weekends
Seek blessings at the Sin Sze Zi Ya Temple
The oldest Taoist temple in the city is also located on Petaling Street! Established in 1864, it was built in honour of two deities, Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya. The temple’s traditional architecture is best seen in its intricate designs and gorgeous pillars. You can participate in the local religious practices by purchasing the joss stick for just RM 10 (THB 77.04) and burning the incense to pay respect.
Timings: 7 am to 5 pm.
Also, explore the must-visit Chinese temples in Petaling Street and KLCC Precincts.
Stroll around the Kwai Chai Hong
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The artistic streets of Kwai Chai Hong are adorned with some of the most fabulous street art. The walls symbolise the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. The QR codes next to the myriad murals allow tourists to discover the history of the residents who have lived in Kwai Chai Hong. The street’s name translates to ‘Little Ghost Lane’, inspired by the days when children used to play around. Now, it hosts exciting festivals, restaurants, cafes, and galleries.
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Book your stay at Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur via Agoda
Shop at the iconic Petaling Street Market
The Petaling Street Market is not hard to miss, with its massive arch and Chinese lanterns! Bargain hunters can negotiate great deals on everything, including fabrics, trinkets, and electronics. Famous among tourists for its massive designer dupes, the market has much more to offer, especially lip-smacking street food.
Foodies must indulge in the delicious food from the following street food vendors: Madras Lane Curry Laksa, Apek’s Apam, Madam Tang Muah Chee, Kim Lian Kee Hokkien Mee, Air Mata Kucing and Kedai Kopi Lai Fong.
Discover the best of Kuala Lumpur along Ampang And Sri Petaling LRT Lines.
Head to the Central Market artisanal handicrafts
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Once famous as its wet market, Central Market has now transformed into a headquarters for crafts goods. You can find top-notch Malaysian and Chinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goods here. Exquisite products like batik, songket, calligraphy, porcelain, jade, and wood carvings can be found here.
Timings: 10 am to 8 pm.
Shop the best travel experiences here
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing
(Feature image credit: G N/Pexels)
This article originally appeared on Travel + Leisure Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chinatown KL is famous for its bustling markets, beautiful art and religious landmarks.
Yes, there are any temples in and around Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur like Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and Sin Sze Zi Ya Temple.
Yes, you can bargain at Petaling Street.
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Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi!
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