Malaysia - attractions - Countries Guide

Merdeka Square
The 328ft (100m) flagpole rising from Merdeka Square is the tallest in the world, and marks the place where Malaysia achieved independence in 1957. The city's colonial past is still very much alive in the architecture of the surrounding buildings and the field still hosts the occasional cricket matches. The Tudor-style Royal Selangor Club rests on one corner of the square, looking onto a large video screen displaying religious messages and advertisements. The Club served as a social centre for Kuala Lumpur's British residents; its doors are now open to anyone who can afford the membership fees. In keeping with die-hard customs women are still not allowed entry to the bar, except by invitation.
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Chinatown
The crowded and colourful Chinatown area is a jumble of shops, food, smells and people. The central section of Petaling Street is closed at night to traffic and the street is transformed into an exciting, brightly lit experience. Vendors spread their wares onto the pavement and one can stroll along endlessly taking it all in. Merchandise ranges from jewellery to toys and t-shirts and bargaining for the best prices is accepted practice and part of the fun.
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Transport: Putra LRT to the Pasar Seni stop and walk across to Petaling Street, or a short walk from the central bus station
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Petronas Towers
The Petronas Towers are designed to impress and encapsulate Malaysia's emergence as South East Asia's commercial and cultural centre. Celebrated as one of the tallest towers in the world, the buildings stand at a height of 1,483ft (452m) and are joined by a skybridge extending 192ft (58m) across. Traditional geometric principles of Islamic architecture have been followed using modern technology, with an inspiring result. The Petronas towers are used as office complexes that form part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Development Park.
Telephone: (0)3 2331 1769 (Skybridge)
Website: www.petronas.com.my/internet/pett/pettweb.nsf/frm_skybridge_hi?OpenFrameset
Transport: Train from Kuala Lumpur Central Station or PUTRA light rail transit to KLCC; bus 176,178,183 or 185 from Jalan Hang Lekiu bus stop
Opening times: The Skybridge is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 7pm, but tickets go on sale at 8.30am

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
British architect, AB Hubbock was inspired by North Indian Islamic design when he conceived this magnificent railway station. Spires, minarets, towers and arches explode against the backdrop of skyscrapers emphasising the glory of Moorish elegance. It serves not only as an aesthetic vision but is in use as an important commuter station.
Telephone: (0)3 227 6063
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Friday Mosque (Masjid Jamek)
Masjid Jamek is located where the Gombak River flows into the Klang River and with its palm tress and curved steps leading to the water's edge, it is a haven of peace and tranquillity set amongst the buzz and rush of modern KL. The Mosque is built on a symbolic site dating back to the origins of Kuala Lumpur, being the spot where the founders of the city first set foot. The design was inspired by Mogul mosques in northern India. Cupolas and minarets top the brick walls and arched colonnades. As with all mosques, a visit calls for conservative dress and the removal of shoes.
Telephone: (0)3 274 6063
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Transport: Masjid Jamek LRT station
Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 8.30am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 4pm. Friday 8.30am to 11am and 2.30pm to 4pm

Lake Gardens
These 60-hectare (148-acre) gardens established in 1888 form the green belt of Kuala Lumpur. The lush vegetation surrounds a vast lake. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise to enjoy views of the gardens from the water (RM4 per hour: Saturdays, 2pm to 5.30pm and Sundays 8am to 5.30pm). The gardens incorporate the National Monument, Butterfly House, Bird Park, Orchid and Hibiscus gardens, with Malaysia's Parliament House situated at the northern end.
Telephone: (0)3 2691 6011
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Transport: Bus 30 from Jalan Sultan Mohamed, or 22 or 38 from Lebuh Pasar Besar
Opening times: Butterfly House: daily 9am to 6pm; Bird Park: daily 9am to 6.30pm; Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens: daily 9am to 6pm

National Mosque (Masjid Negara)
A modern contrast to the Friday Mosque, the National Mosque was completed in 1965 and remains the largest mosque in South East Asia - the vast main prayer hall can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Many of the city's Malay office workers congregate here for the Friday afternoon prayers. The impressive 18-point star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and five central Pillars of Islam. Entry is only permitted once prayers have been concluded. Robes can be borrowed from the desk at the mosque entrance.
Telephone: (0)3 2693 7784
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Transport: LRT to Pasar Seni LRT station
Opening times: Daily 9am to 6pm, except Friday during prayers 2.45pm to 6pm

National Museum (Muzium Negara)
Malaysia's historical artefacts and cultural icons are housed in an appropriately designed building, reflecting the Minangkabau architectural style of the region. Ethnographic and archaeological exhibits include life-size dioramas depicting various aspects of traditional Malaysian life. Shadow play (Wayang kilt) displays reflect the ancient artistry of the nation, while exhibits of traditional weapons such as daggers (kris) and machetes (parangs) reveal the Malaysian pride in functional aesthetic forms.
Telephone: (0)3 2282 6255
Website: www.museum.gov.my
Transport: Bangsar LRT station or bus to Jalan Travers
Opening times: Daily 9am to 6pm

. National Park (Taman Negara)
Taman Negara contains some of the oldest rainforest in the world and spans thousands of square miles of protected land. Its richly diverse fauna and flora have evolved over a staggering 130 million years. The best way to explore the diversity of plant and animal life is by 'trekking' along the jungle trails. Although seldom seen, a small population of nomadic Orang Asli people still live in the rainforest, their makeshift shelters appearing in places amongst the jungle growth. Besides trekking, the park's other attractions are fishing, river rafting or bird watching and climbers can explore the Peninsula's highest mountain, Gunung Tahan at 7,175ft (2,187m). The best time to visit the park is between March and September.
Telephone: (0)3 905 2872
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Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Five pristine islands comprise this 4,929-hectare (12,100 acre) park. The islands are: Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. Each is an idyllic composition of white beaches and offshore coral reefs hugging inland forests teeming with animal life. Visitors are welcome to camp, trek, swim and snorkel around each of these.
Telephone:
Website: www.sabahparks.org.my
Transport: Daily boat services from Kota Kinabalu jetty
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Sipadan Island
This mushroom-shaped island is known amongst divers around the world for its unique seascape and exceptional beauty. A rich variety of marine life shimmers through the translucent waters surrounding this oceanic island.
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Website: www.myoutdoor.com/sabah/sipadan/index.htm
Transport: Boat from Semporna
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Mt Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu rises from the Kinabalu National Park at an impressive 13,500ft (4,101m), the highest mountain between the white peaks of the Himalayas and those of New Guinea. Despite its formidable height, it is a comparatively easy climb that has been enjoyed by tourists of varying ages and fitness levels and takes two to three days.
Telephone: (0)8 821 1585
Website: www.sabahparks.org.my
Transport: The park is on the minibus route from Kota Kinabalu to Ranau
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Bako National Park
19 Miles (30km) of trails wind through this park of tropical rainforest, mangrove swamp and rocky headlands. Protected species of Hornbill and proboscis monkey are at home here and walkers can expect to see diverse plant and wildlife within its boundaries. Permits are required and can be obtained in advance from the Sarawak Tourist Association office.
Telephone: 011 225 049
Website: www.forestry.sarawak.gov.my
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Niah National Park and Niah Caves
The Great Cave of Niah is one of the largest limestone caves in the world, and an archaeological treasure house. It was here that archaeologists discovered the evidence of man's existence dating back 40,000 years. A display of tools, rock paintings and human skulls tell the story of ancient civilisations. The rest of the park is dominated by limestone vegetation and the magnificent Gunung Sabis peak at 1,294ft (388m).
Telephone: (0)8 573 7450
Website: www.forestry.sarawak.gov.my
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Sepilok Forest Reserve and Orang-Utan Sanctuary
This vast equatorial rainforest is an enchanting excursion that is best explored through self-guided trails. The most interesting diversion from these trails is provided by a trip to the Orang-Utan sanctuary. Here Orang-Utans that have been rescued find temporary shelter before their release into the forest.
Telephone: (89) 531180
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Opening times: Feeding times are at 10am and 3pm. The centre is open daily 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm

Cities & Regions: Kuala Lumpur | Hill Resorts | The Islands | Sabah | Sarawak