Kuala Lumpur, sometimes referred to as the 'Garden City of Lights,' is the largest as well as the capital city of Malaysia. As the capital city, Kuala Lumpur is the youngest in the Southeast Asia, and economic wise, it is perhaps the most successful after Singapore. KL, as it is fondly known, is situated between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, in the south eastern part of Asia. During the past 150 years, Kuala Lumpur has been evolved into a modern, bustling city, with more than two million people. Although a vibrant, gleaming city, Kuala Lumpur still retains its colonial charm which now cannot be found in most of the Asian boom cities such as Singapore. Further, Kuala Lumpur brings together the country's past and present as well as many of its constituent cultures. Indeed, the city is regarded as Malaysia's microcosm, since it provides the travelers a glimpse of the whole country. Above all, due to its strategic location and close proximity to Bangkok and Singapore, Kuala Lumpur is considered the perfect gateway into Malaysia. Attractions in Kuala Lumpur range from avant-garde architectural highlights to tourist spots of historical significance. Kuala Lumpur boasts of an architecture that is an eclectic mix of traditional and modernity. In other words, the city is especially noted for its intriguing blend of architecture, ranging from stunning colonial buildings to towering modern. Some of the fine examples for this are Sultan Abdul Samad building (designed by the British architect), Dayabumi Complex - a 35 storied building that is a mixture of Moorish-Byzantine architecture, the Dataran Meredeka, and Istana Nagara - the official residence of the king. Also, noteworthy is such architectural landmarks as the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, boasting of Morish-inspired architecture. A visit to Kuala Lumpur would be incomplete without taking a tour to attractions such as Merdeka Square, the site where Malaysian flag was hoisted for the first time in 1957; Masjid Jamek, the oldest mosque in the city which is much favored for its intricate North Indian Islamic architecture; Masjid Negara, featuring multifold umbrella that represents the five pillars of Islam as well as the thirteen states of Malaysia. Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest building in the world which accommodate in it an array of chic shopping malls and an art gallery; Taman Tasik Perdana (Lake Gardens), whose attractions are the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm, Kuala Lumpur Orchid Garden, Bird Park, and the National Planetarium; Chinatown, where you can find a variety of food stalls and night markets, apart from the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple and Sri Mahamariamman Temple; and Central Market, one of the best places in the city to shop antique items such as handicrafts, scarves, and porcelain figures. Kuala Lumpur's attractions also cover monuments like the Parliament House, the National Science Center, and the National Monument. Also, worth visiting are the city's interesting museums such as the Royal Malaysian Armed Force Museum, Museum of Asian Arts, Maybank Numismatic Museum, Royal Malaysian Air Force Museum, and MISC Museum. Aside these attractions, Kuala Lumpur has to its credit a countless number of zoos, libraries, night clubs, casinos, temples and churches, amusement and fun parks, and recreational parks and botanical gardens. Above all, the city hosts a range of festivals, which among many others, are Prophet Mohammed's Birthday, Chinese New Year, Thaipousam, Flora Festival, and Shopping festival, which lasts for a week. From small as well as medium budget hotels to top-notch luxury hotels, Kuala Lumpur has accommodation facilities to suit every pocket. Since many of these hotels have their own websites and online facilities, this enables the visitors to reserve a hotel room within the comforts of their house. Besides, some of the world-class hotels provide packages, which are inclusive of accommodation, dining facilities, transportation within the city, and sightseeing facilities. Additionally, for connoisseur of gourmet tastes, Kuala Lumpur has an endless range of restaurants and bars, all of which serve you a multitude of delicacies from across the world. Kuala Lumpur is well linked by air, rail, and water. With more than 40 international airlines providing services to the new, sophisticated KLIA International Airport in Sepang, travelers not at all have trouble in getting into Kuala Lumpur. When comes to rail, KTMB is the prime train service. By sea, Port Klang serves as the main port, which is located 41 km from Kuala Lumpur. With stunning architecture, world-class landmarks, friendly service and eclectic culture, and well-connected transportation, there is no wonder why Kuala Lumpur is considered the perfect gateway into Malaysia.
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