Chinatown (Petaling Street)★★
Petaling Street (Chinese: 茨廠街) is the heart of KL's historic Chinatown — a covered pedestrian zone full of traders, food stalls, and colonial architecture. By day, a bustling market with imitation handbags and souvenirs, by night a lively food street. But Chinatown is much more than just Petaling Street.
The true treasures lie in the side streets: The Sri Mahamariamman Temple (1873) is the oldest Hindu temple in KL — a colorful gopuram (temple tower) amidst the Chinese quarter, perfectly symbolizing Malaysia's religious diversity. The Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Temple (1906) at the southern end of Petaling Street is an architectural gem of southern Chinese architecture with elaborate ceramic figures on the roof.
Not far from there stands the Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek, 1909) — the oldest mosque in KL, beautifully located at the confluence of Klang and Gombak River. Kuala Lumpur was founded right here in 1857 — "Kuala Lumpur" means "muddy river mouth." The renovated area around the mosque (River of Life project) is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
💡 Tipp
The best time for Chinatown is in the morning (Dim Sum!) and late afternoon (Street Food). Petaling Street itself is touristy — the side streets (Jalan Sultan, Jalan Tun H.S. Lee) are more authentic. Take the MRT station Pasar Seni.
