Kuala Lumpur is an exciting city to visit, with a vast contrast of modern skyscrapers and shopping malls, converging with the Asia of old, with bustling markets and street side food vendors. It is also a city with contrasting affordability. You can indulge in an expensive luxury holiday, or you can travel on a tight backpacker budget. Sightseeing in Kuala Lumpur is generally quite affordable, but if you’re travelling on a budget, you might be surprised to find that there are many things to do for free in Malaysia’s capital; meaning that you can save your money to spend on other things, like the amazing Malaysian food. Enjoy these 8 free things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square is the historic colonial district of Kuala Lumpur, from where the British ruled the country during the colonial period. It is also a very important place for Malaysians as it is the site on which Malaysia gained its independence from Britain, and the Malay flag still flies high above. The square itself is the old cricket ground, and the cricket pitch is still there. The historic Royal Selangor club is also here, and surrounding the square are Kuala Lumpur’s best historic colonial buildings, along with museums and art galleries. The dominating building is the beautiful Sultan Abdul Samad building with its stunning domes and clock tower.

You can wander around Merdeka Square yourself, or you can enjoy a free walking tour which is arranged by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall. This free tour takes you to some of the best sites in Merdeka Square, including the Textile Museum, and tells you all about the history of the city during British rule.

Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world and probably the most iconic and popular tourist site in the city. While it costs money to go up to the sky bridge which connects the two towers, it is totally free to view them from below and wander in and around these spectacular buildings. The height and architecture of the towers is mesmerizing, and they are particularly beautiful at night when they are all lit up. On one side of the towers you can sit by the fountains and get some great photos, and if you walk through or around the KLCC shopping mall below, you can enjoy the towers from KLCC park.

Inside the Petronas Towers, on the 3^rd floor, you will find the Galeri Petronas. This is an excellent and free art gallery that is solely focused on Malaysian art. The exhibits here are excellent and always changing, showcasing local artists.

KL Forest Eco Park

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You might be surprised to find that there is a forest right in the centre of Kuala Lumpur. The KL Forest Eco Park is one of the oldest protected forest reserves in the country, and it provides the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is free to visit and you can enjoy several relaxing trails through the rainforest. There is also a tree top walk that takes you high up into the forest canopy. Get away from the busy metropolis and enjoy the flora and fauna of this beautiful forest park.

Perdana Botanical Garden

Another wonderful place to escape the city and get back to nature is the Perdana Botanical Garden. This garden is a large area of greenspace located to the west of the historic district of Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy the peacefulness of this tropical oasis, with plenty of relaxing walking paths, a large lake and lots of grassed areas amongst the gardens. There is also a special orchid garden here, as well as a hibiscus garden.

Chinatown Temples

Chinatown is one of the most interesting areas of Kuala Lumpur and just walking along the streets among the old buildings is well worth your time. There are also some important places of worship here, and you can visit the temples in Chinatown for free. Chinese temples to visit include Guan Di Temple and Sin Sze Si Ya – a Taoist temple dating back to 1864.

Also located within Chinatown is Sri Mahamariamman Temple – the oldest Hindu temple in the city which also dates back to the 19^th century. The current building was built in 1968 but has kept the traditional Hindu style, with stunning and colourful carvings. The temple is free to visit, but they do ask for a small fee if you want to store your shoes.

Batu Caves

Located on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur is Batu Caves, one of the most important Hindu places of worship outside of India. This temple is located within a huge limestone cavern, and there are lots of shrines and monuments in the complex. To reach the cave temple you must climb a long staircase of 272 steps. In front of the staircase is a huge golden statue of Lord Murugan, and the area is populated with monkeys. This amazing cave temple is a must-see in Kuala Lumpur, and visiting the main cave temple is free.

Bank Negara Malaysia Museum & Art Gallery

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There are several free museums you can visit in Kuala Lumpur. One of the best is the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum & Art Gallery. This museum is a lot more interesting than it might sound, and takes you through interactive displays and exhibits showcasing Malaysia’s financial system and history. There are lots of interesting pieces on display, and the art gallery here is excellent. Best of all, it is all totally free for you to enjoy.

Kampung Baru Walking Tour

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Kampung Baru is a traditional Malay village area located right in Kuala Lumpur. You can join a free guided walking tour to explore this interesting area while learning about traditional Malay heritage. Wander past picturesque traditional Malay wood houses and charming shops and eateries.

You don’t need a lot of money to enjoy the attractions in Kuala Lumpur. There are plenty of excellent free things to do in the city, and you could easily have a whole day out without spending a cent on sightseeing. Time to pack your bags and visit Malaysia’s capital.