With an abundance of lively temples, cool architecture, and colorful street art, Kuala Lumper is jam-packed with cool photo spots! However, finding the best photo locations in a bustling city like Kuala Lumpur can be tricky, especially with limited time. So to save you the hassle of figuring out where to go and what to skip, here’s our list of the most Instagrammable places in KL!
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KL Essentials
Before diving into this KL photo guide, here are a couple of tips for a stress-free trip.
- KL City has oodles of cool accommodation options, but booking a hotel room a few weeks in advance is best. Search the best hotel deals here or see my top picks below.
- Pre-book a seat on the KLIA Express Train to access the city from the airport easily.
- Grab a ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus to easily navigate Kuala Lumpur’s Instagram spots at your own pace.
- Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities, as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
- If it’s your first visit to the city, this Lonely Planet pocket guide will come in handy. It’s packed with activities and tips to make the most of your time in KL city.
- Book a prepaid 4G Sim card for pickup at the airport. This way, you can plan your stops, access maps, book Grab taxi, and much more on the go.
- Don’t want to plan a thing? Visit KL’s best photo spots on this private IG day tour.
Instagrammable Places in KL: The Best Photo Spots in Kuala Lumpur
Whether you’re planning a quick 2-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary or exploring for a bit longer, make sure to tick off at least a few of these Kuala Lumpur Instagram spots!
Petronas Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers are not only one of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia but also one of the top Instagram spots in Kuala Lumpur.
As the world’s tallest twin skyscraper, this impressive steel and glass structure dominates the city’s skyline at a staggering 451.9 meters. Head up to the sky bridge and observation deck for an incredible view over the city and the best photo ops. If you don’t feel like navigating the crowds, another great photo spot is at KLCC Park. The park sits right behind the skyscraper, and the lovely gardens offer added photo options. Make sure to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the towers’ entirety.
Most people visit the twin towers during the day, but it’s worth coming back at night for even more incredible photos. At sunset, the light reflects off the buildings creating a beautiful shimmering effect, while at night, you can see the towers lit up and enjoy a dazzling light and sound show at the fountains.
There is a limit on visitors entering the sky bridge each day, so make sure to grab your admission ticket in advance. Alternatively, join this KL City evening tour for even more fantastic photo ops.
- Address: Petronas Twin Tower, Lower Ground (Concourse) Level, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088
- Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm, every day except Monday.
Thean Hou Temple
Next up on this list of Instagrammable places in KL is Thean Hou Temple – the prettiest temple in Kuala Lumpur.
While Thean Hou Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in the city, it has become a hotspot among photographers and Instagrammers in recent years. The 6-tier temple sits on a hilltop, so there are some excellent vantage points to get shots over the cityscape. However, what really makes Thean Hou Temple so special is its beautiful architecture and dozens of daggling red lanterns strewn over its courtyard.
Set aside at least a couple of hours to visit this temple because there are loads to do and see. Besides making your way through all the levels, there’s also a cute wishing pond and neatly manicured gardens filled with quirky props.
Since Thean Hou Temple is quite a popular tourist attraction, it’s best to time your visit. Come around 9 am to beat the tour groups or after 6 pm to see the lanterns lit up!
- Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
- Opening hours: 8 am to 10 pm, daily
KL Forest Eco Park
If you want to add some nature shots to your IG grid, the KL Forest Eco Park is for you.
The KL Forest Eco Park is one of Malaysia’s oldest nature reserves, and today it is the only patch of tropical rainforest in KL city. While towering buildings surround the forest, the park is a little oasis offering a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The KL Forest Eco Park features several easy nature trails where you can spot various fauna and flora. But the best place for photography is along the canopy walkway. From here, you’ll be surrounded by giant trees and have incredible views over the forest below, the city, and even the KL Tower in the distance. There are quite a few stairs to climb, so remember to dress comfortably. Also, keep an eye out for monkeys and snakes.
The best way to explore the park is at your own leisure, and it’s easy to get there by Hop-on hop-off bus. The entry fee to the park is a bit steep for foreigners (40 MYR), but it’s still a great place to get some fresh air and take photos in a jungle-like setting.
- Address: Lot 240, Jalan Raja Chulan, Bukit Kewangan, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
- Opening hours: 8 am to 5:30 pm, daily
Batu Caves
No guide on the most Instagrammable places in KL would be complete without a mention of Batu Caves. Located roughly 25 minutes taxi ride from downtown, Batu Caves is arguably the most colorful photo spot in Kuala Lumpur.
The limestone caves date back several hundred years, and the complex features a giant statue guarding the cave’s entrance, several Hindu temples and shrines, and, of course, a rainbow staircase. While Batu Caves is one of the most famous temples in Asia, attracting heaps of worshippers and tourists each day, one can’t deny that its dreamy rainbow staircase is one of its biggest draws.
Most people only stop by to snap a few selfies on the staircase, but it’s worth tackling the 272 steps to the top, where you can enjoy some really amazing views. Inside the cave, you also have a closer look at the cave’s interior and browse the little temple and shrines. Afterward, head out to the parking lot for the best photos of the entire stairway and the giant statue.
Before visiting, though, you need to know a couple of things. Batu Caves is home to a bunch of sneaky monkeys who aren’t afraid to snatch your favorite hat, shades, or even your phone! Keep your belongings safely zipped up in your bag. Since Batu Caves is a religious site, remember to dress appropriately (cover your knees and shoulders). It’s best to come as early as possible to beat the heat and crowds.
- Address: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
- Opening hours: 24/7
National Mosque
Another fantastic Instagram spot in KL is the National Mosque, also known as Masjid Negara.
Built in 1963, it is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in SEA, housing up to 15,000 worshippers at a time. While its size is certainly impressive, its unique design and intricate motifs make it even more special.
Outside, the mosque features a stunning 18-pointed star dome in blue tile. These represent the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam. And inside, you’ll find sparkling white pillars and floors, intricately carved-out windows, and a massive prayer hall with beautiful motifs on the ceiling. The mosque is also surrounded by a 13-hectare garden filled with towering palm trees and neatly kept gardens.
It’s best to time your visit here as the mosque is not always open to non-worshippers. Shoes are not permitted inside the mosque, and women must cover their heads (robes are available at the entrance for free).
The National Mosque is not too far from several other KL instagrammable places, like the old Malayan Railway Station, Islamic Arts Museum, Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, and Lake Gardens.
- Address: Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
- Opening hours: 9 am – 12 pm, 3 pm – 4 pm, 5:30 – 6:30 pm (Sat – Thurs) | 3 pm – 4 pm, 5:30 – 6:30 pm (Fri)
Heli Lounge Bar
Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel.
Kuala Lumpur is known for its secret bars and hidden speakeasies with unusual locations. The Heli Lounge Bar is one of the most popular, and while it is somewhat hidden, it’s not very secret anymore.
Located on the top floor of the Menara KH tower, this open-air bar sits on a large helipad without much of a railing. You’ll climb a narrow set of stairs until you reach the large platform, where you can enjoy drinks and incredible views of the surrounding skyline. This is the perfect place for taking Instagram photos, especially if you visit during sunset.
After around 7 pm, the bar becomes more of a nightlife hotspot with a live DJ and more expensive tables. Make sure to reserve a spot if you plan on staying longer, but you should be fine to just come without a reservation for sunset.
- Address: 34 Menara KH, Jln Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 50450, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
- Opening hours: 5 pm to 11:30 pm daily
Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Recommended by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover.
Another really Instagrammable place in KL to add to your photo list, even if you only have 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur, is the Sultan Abdul Samad building – a beautiful prominent building built in 1897.
The Sultan Abdul Samad building is the oldest building in Malaysia and is a treasured historical heritage site in KL. It has a unique design incorporating British and Islamic styles, in a nod to Malaysia’s historical heritage and cultural diversity.
It’s never too crowded outside the Sultan Abdul Samad building, so it is easy to get Instagrammable photos here at any time of the day. You can take pictures next to the stunning cupolas and colonnades or next to the dominating 41-meter-high clock tower – designed to replicate London’s Big Ben! You can’t go inside the building, but you can come at any time to take photos from the outside. It also looks really nice lit up at night!
The Sultan Abdul Samad building is located on Jalan Raja opposite Independence Square (Dataran Merdeka). You can catch a taxi or take the LRT to Masjid Jamek station to get here. The Sultan Abdul Samad building is a 10-minute walk from the station.
- Address: Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
- Opening hours: 24/7
Jamek Mosque
Recommended by Dan from Urban Abroad.
One of the best photo spots in Kuala Lumpur is the Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek in Malaysia). This mosque lies right in the city’s heart, not far from the lively Central Market and Chinatown.
It is one of the oldest and most important mosques in Kuala Lumpur and stands near the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. The impressive mosque was designed by the British architect Arthur Benison Hubback. It was inaugurated in 1909 by the Sultan of Selangor, Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah.
The Jamek Mosque presents architectural solutions that refer to the Moorish, Indo-Saracenic and Mughal styles. Three domes surround the prayer hall, and on the sides of the building, there are two minarets. If you visit the mosque, remember to dress appropriately (legs and arms covered, and a headscarf for women).
The best time to take pictures here is on a clear day when the sun is high to capture all its details. The mosque is easy to access as it is within walking distance from Merdeka Square and the Masjid Jamek LRT station.
- Address: Jalan Mahkamah Persekutuan, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
- Opening hours: 5:30 am to 9:30 pm, daily
Sri Mahamariamman Temple
Recommended by Caleb & Sarah from The Pazook Travel Journal.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple is located near the famous Petaling Street Market in Chinatown. It’s small but one of the most Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur!
The Hindu temple makes a beautiful first impression with an ornate 5-tiered gopuram (monumental entrance tower) colorfully decorated with scenes and sculptures of various Hindu gods. The interior is equally worthwhile, filled with intricate shrines, sculptures, and frescos.
Try coming in the late afternoon or evening for the best photos. It’s challenging to take a picture with the temple since the street is narrow, but the orange sunset makes for a stunning backdrop to pictures of the temple.
Entrance to the temple is free, but visitors must pay 20 cents for shoe-keeping.
The best way to get here is by taking the Metro to Pasar Seni Station, followed by a short 3-minute walk to the temple. The metro will take 10 minutes from Bukit Bintang, 13 minutes from KL Sentral, or 20 minutes from KLCC/Petronas Towers. The temple is in a very busy area, so parking near the temple is virtually impossible.
- Address: Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Opening hours: 6 am to 8:30 pm every day
Rooftop pool at Mandarin Oriental Hotel
Recommended by Brodi Cole of Our Offbeat Life.
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s rooftop pool, located across from KLCC Park and next to the Petronas Twin Towers, is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Kuala Lumpur. Its stunning views of the iconic Malaysian skyline and luxurious atmosphere provide an idyllic backdrop for a day-long photoshoot or a few quick shots before sightseeing. Little wonder it’s also revered as one of Kuala Lumpur’s best hotels with rooftop pools.
The pool area features a large infinity pool that appears to stretch right up to the horizon line in front of it, as well as lush green foliage and sun loungers for a relaxing afternoon getaway.
When it comes to taking that perfect shot, timing is everything. For many photographers, sunrise or sunset offers the best opportunity to snap beautiful photos with vibrant colors and dramatic shadows. Given the location of this spot near the Petronas Twin Towers, you can expect some incredible shots at sunset when the towers light up against the city skyline.
Throughout the day, there will also be plenty of opportunities for stunning shots with natural lighting due to its elevated position above ground level. However, nighttime is also great for photography because the Petronas Twin Towers lights reflect off the other buildings surrounding KLCC Park and the Mandarin Oriental.
- Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Bukit Melawati
Recommended by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy.
Melawati is a scenic hill in Malaysia overlooking the Malacca Strait, with a colonial fort, old cannons, and a photogenic white lighthouse that the Dutch built in 1794. Three of Selangor’s earliest Sultans were buried there.
The Melawati hill is also home to lots of wild silver leaf monkeys who roam freely, with babies with bright orange fur. Fortunately, these monkeys are friendly and not mischievous, so you don’t have to worry about them stealing your sunglasses, unlike the long-tailed macaques with grey fur (common in other parts of Southeast Asia). It’s an interesting place to visit and especially fun for families!
Melawati is technically located in Kuala Selangor, but you can visit it easily on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur or other parts of Malaysia. It’s a 1-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, and you can go by private taxi, bus, or tour.
- Address: 45000 Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 24/7
Where to stay in KL
Kuala Lumpur has a bunch of cool hotel options for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for something a bit more upscale or traveling on a tight budget – there’s something for everyone here!
However, if you’re into pretty places, it’s worth paying a few extra dollars to stay at one of KL’s funky Instagrammable hotels. Here are some of the most photogenic ones.
Need more help figuring out where to stay in Kuala Lumpur? Find more hotel deals here on Agoda.
Kuala Lumpur Instagram Spots in Conclusion
Well, that wraps up our list of the most Instagrammable places in Kuala Lumpur! Did your favorite Instagrammable places in KL make our list? If not, let me know which spots I need to check out on my next trip to Malaysia!
If you liked these Instagram spots in Kuala Lumpur, don’t forget to pin this post for your future KL trip!
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