Best Way to Spend a Layover in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the most visited place for a layover in the world.

This is partly due to many flights operated by Air Asia now going via Kuala Lumpur, which I’m sure has done wonders for the KL economy. Cleverly executed by Air Asia.

I have found myself in Kuala Lumpur four times in the past year. I have loved each and every layover and discovered something different each time.

There’s something about Kuala Lumpur! Maybe it’s the humidity (which I love as it’s great for the skin), maybe it’s the diverse cultural mix of people bringing the best of international cuisines. Every time I visit KL I feel like I could easily live there.

This time I’m only in KL for the day. I would recommend staying at least one or two nights as KL not only has some interesting attractions there are instagram-worthy accommodations for a fraction of the price which you would pay in other parts of Asia.

Where to stay on a 1-2 night layover in Kuala Lumpur:

If you are staying in the city, Regalia Residences is highly recommended. The infinity pool is worth the stay alone, offering 180 degree views of the entire city and of the Petronas Towers. Their restaurant and bar Hemisphere is well-priced with a decent wine menu. The image below was taken from from the roof top infinity pool (I arrived into KL quite late that night).

I got some better snaps of the Petronas Towers from Sky Bar in KL in the day time.

Kuala Lumpur Twin Towers Infinity Pool Regalia Residences

The next place I highly recommend for a stay in KL is Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort in Kuala Lumpur, over-water bungalows without the hefty price tag, plus the location is convenient (unlike with many over-water bungalows). Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is just 10km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport making it a convenient, easy stay on a layover.

For more on this resport, read this article on the Best Asia Beach Vacations on a Budget

Things to do Kuala Lumpur on a layover Layover (6 Hours Min):

Batu Caves and Petronas Towers are the two most photographed attractions in Kuala Lumpur and quite possibly Malaysia. If you only have 6 hours in Kuala Lumpur you have time to see the Batu Caves and the Petronas Towers but don’t dilly dally. Keep in mind Kuala Lumpur International Airport is HUGE, due to the vast airport, it takes a very long time to get to your flight.

World's Largest Murugan Statue Kuala Lumpur Malaysia — World’s Largest Murugan Statue Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Getting to Batu Caves:

Take the KLIA Express to KL Sentral, return ticket costs 100 Malaysian Ringit. The express train only takes 20 minutes and is faster than a taxi.

*Tip: If you are a lady traveling solo take advantage of the ladies only coach in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur is incredibly safe for solo female travelers, this provides some added comfort.

At KL Sentral you will change to the local train line (very easy as it’s only a few minutes walk). Purchase a ticket to Batu Caves for 2.60 Ringit.

Train to Batu Caves from Central Kuala Lumpur

Petronas Towers:

Petronas Towers, also known as Petronas Twin Towers, are twin buildings, they were the tallest buildings in the world until 2004 when Taipei 101 took over the title. The Petronas Towers are still the tallest twin buildings in the world.

Petronas Towers Facts Did you know?

These towers have served as a backdrop for many Bollywood movies.
There are 88 stories in Petronas Twin Towers.
Petronas Twin Towers make use of glass facade that was designed to resemble Islamic art motifs.
The entry to Petronas Towers is free, but only a limited number of timed tickets are provided on a daily basis
Petronas Twin Towers have 32,000 windows.
It cost US $1.2 billion to build Petronas Towers!