Kuala Lumpur Layover Guide (KUL)
What are you looking for in KUL?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is the main international airport found in Malaysia and is one of the major airports in Southeast Asia. It is located 45 km (28 mi) from the center of Kuala Lumpur. The airport has had commercial flights since 1993. Kuala Lumpur is the national capital of Malaysia and doubles as a global city, known for being the fastest-growing metropolitan region in Southeast Asia, in both population and economic development.
Can you leave Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
It's possible to visit Kuala Lumpur during a layover. However, some travelers may still require a visa. (more info).
Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing
Kuala Lumpur Organized Tours
Batu Caves
Embark on the limestone hills of the Batu Caves, made up of three caverns and several smaller caves. Pass by the towering statue of Murugan before climbing the 272 steps for a beautiful view of the city, see a cave shrine, and follow vivid murals of Hindu scripture. Learn about Malaysia’s rich history, traditions and customs in the suburbs. You might even join a crowd of Hindu pilgrims on their way to a series of gilded altars. » book this tour
Petronas Towers Observation Deck
The Petronas Twin Towers literally top Kuala Lumpur’s list of attractions. The towers stands at 1,483 feet in height and they are still the tallest twin towers in the world. The observation deck offers beautiful panoramic and aerial views that can make you fall in love with Kuala Lumpur. All you need to do in advance is indicate your preferred time to visit the Twin Towers. » book this tour
Historical Malacca
This is one of the UNESCO-listed places in Malaysia. Discover the history of the Malay sultanate and Malacca’s rise from becoming an important trading port to being influenced by the Portuguese and Dutch from the early 16th century. Visit the ruins of St. Paul’s Church and Red Square, which is full of pink Dutch administrative buildings that now house the Malacca Museum and government offices. See the Sultan’s Well, which was the lifeblood and water source that fed Malacca. » book this tour
Kuala Lumpur Things to do / Sightseeing
National Museum
The National Museum is an architectural masterpiece found near the famous Lake Gardens. It is made in the fashion of traditional Malaysian houses and employs a mixture of contemporary and traditional designs. Just like the theme outside, within the National Museum are replicas of Malay houses, wedding scenes, and hunting displays. This is an entertaining and educational experience to learn all about the history and culture of Malaysia. There are also local instruments and national costumes on display. Of course, the museum temporary exhibits that change throughout the year.
Time required: 2 hours to a full day.
Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of 50 minutes while public transport takes an hour and 20 minutes.
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park sits on over 20 acres and is home to over 3000 birds especially the local species. This huge aviary teaches visitors about local flora and fauna. There are many chances to bird watch in one of the largest public aviaries in the world. Also, learn about the scientific significance of the bird park.
Time required: You will need at least an hour to enjoy the bird park.
Airport to here: Taxi takes an average of an hour while public transport typically takes an hour and a half.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple
This is the oldest Hindu temple in all of Kuala Lumpur having been built in the nineteenth century. The famous Sri Mahamariamman Temple has a vibrant and showy appearance and features many Hindu deities depicting famous legends. It is a good place to learn about diverse cultures and religions as well as architecture.
Time required: At least an hour would be the minimum.
Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 50 minutes and public transport takes an hour and 30 minutes on average.
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park was first opened in 1997. Since then it has built a reputation of being one of the most fun places in Malaysia. Their slogan is ‘Come Feel the Fun’. They have different parts of the theme park, including a water park, a wildlife park and an ‘extreme’ park for adventure junkies. The amusement park also has rides, interactive games, wave and surf pools, dining and shopping options and even a zoo.
Time required: 2-3 hours.
Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 50 minutes while public transport can take a little more than 2 hours.
Central Market
The Central Market in Kuala Lumpur is also called Pasar Seni. It is one of the places to visit on any tourist’s list. Within the market you will find people of various ethnic backgrounds such as Malay, Indian, and Chinese buying, selling and interacting with each other. It is a great place to pick up souvenirs or arts and crafts. Catch a glimpse of the street performers and musical shows the market is known for and try out the local cuisine.
Time required: Set aside 2 or 3 hours to explore the Central Market.
Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 50 minutes and public transport takes an hour and 15 minutes.
Kuala Lumpur Tower
The Menara Kuala Lumpur is 335 meters tall and has an observation deck that provides amazing panoramic views of the city. The visitor deck is the highest point in the entire city that is open to the public. The elevator to the top is even a marvel because it takes only fifty-four seconds for it to ascend.
Time required: Set aside an hour or more to enjoy the view from the tower.
Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi 55 minutes and public transport takes an hour and 40 minutes.
National Zoo of Malaysia
An estimated 500 species are housed within the National Zoo of Malaysia. The zoo is run by the Malaysian Zoological Society. There are various exhibitions for visitors to see like a reptile park, an aviary, a lake, an insectarium, and a freshwater aquarium. There’s a dedicated section for kids named Children’s World that focuses on domestic pets and has a replica farmhouse barn and kids are encouraged to play.
Time required: Set aside 3 to 4 hours to explore the zoo.
Airport to here: Typically takes a Taxi an hour and public transport takes 2 hours.
Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL)
Relaxing and Sleeping
Airport Lounges and Relaxing
There are several lounges in each terminal of Kuala Lumpur International Airport. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online
Hotel and Sleeping
There are numerous hotels close to the airport, some even serve passengers in transit. » view all or book an airport hotel online
Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Within the main terminal “Rest N Go” offers a space for rest and relaxation and even has comfortable massage chairs.
WIFI/Internet and SIM Card
WIFI/Internet: Free WiFi is available at the airport. Select “FREE_WIFI@KLIA” to get connected.
SIM/eSIM Card: There are several shops within the airport that sell SIM cards. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) sim/eSim page.
Transportation to/from airport
Taxi: Taxis are available at the arrival areas of each terminal, they even run on a coupon service or a metered one.
Train: The KLIA Ekspres is a non-stop service to Kuala Lumpur and there is also a transit train service. (more info).
Bus: There are a variety of bus services that journey within Peninsula Malaysia. The bus service is found at Transport Hub. (more info).
Shuttle: There are different shuttle services available.
Car rentals: There are many Car hire companies to choose from. » view available cars or rent a car now online
Parking: There are a couple of parking areas. The rates are determined by how long the car is parked.
Luggage Storage & Lockers
Baggage Solution offers short or long term luggage storage and lockers. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).
Money Exchange and Withdrawal
- Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks