Kuala Lumpur heritage and culture tour

Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is one of the largest and oldest surviving Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Located at the southern end of Jalan Petaling, it is characterized by a typical open courtyard and symmetrical pavilions, and decorated with colourful paintings, woodcarvings and ceramic fixtures. Built between 1897 and 1906, it is quite an elaborate temple: from outside you can see the intricately carved kwang-tung roof, gables and specially-crafted terracotta friezes with monumental Chinese history and mythological scenes. The interior of the main temple has pillars with scenes of gold-painted warriors battling lions, dragons and other mythical creatures.

South of Jalan Hang Lekir, tucked away on Jalan Tun HS Lee, is the extravagantly decorated Sri Mahamariamman Temple. Incorporating Spanish and Italian tiles, precious stones and gold in its design, KL’s main Hindu temple is an incongruous sight situated between two Buddhist temples at the edge of Chinatown. This large and elaborate Hindu temple was founded by Tamil immigrants, from southern India, who arrived in Malaya as contract labourers to build the railways and roads or work in the rubber plantations – its primary purpose was to serve as a solace from the rigours of their working life. Construction of the temple began in 1873 with plenty of ongoing restoration and embellishment occurring over the years.

Lively, colorful Chinatown is centered on Petaling Street, known for its fashion shops and a large covered market with produce, clothes and accessories. Local artists sell paintings and crafts at nearby Central Market, where stalls also dish up noodles and curry.

Cultural heritage site with restored art deco facade offering shopping, eateries & an outdoor stage.

Masjid Jamek Mosque, also known as Friday Mosque, is recognised as the oldest Islamic place of worship in Kuala Lumpur. Overlooking the Klang River, it offers breathtaking photo opportunities for travellers due to the combination of ancient Moorish, Islam and Mughal architectural styles, verdant surroundings, and distant views of KL’s other iconic landmarks. Built in 1907 by British architect Arthur Benison Hubback, Masjid Jamek Mosque served as the main centre of worship for the local Muslim community until the Masjid Negara (National Mosque) was officially opened to the public in 1965. Surrounding the main prayer hall are three domes, the tallest of which measures at 20 metres, flanked by two brick minarets that stand over 25 metres tall.

The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a late-nineteenth century building located along Jalan Raja in front of the Dataran Merdeka and the Royal Selangor Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.