World City Guide

Further Distractions

Taman Tasik Perdana (Lake Gardens)
The Lake Gardens date back as far as 1888, when the British colonials built their elegant houses around the landscaped gardens. Today, the focus of the 68-hectare (172-acre) oasis is the boating lake but other highlights include the orchid garden with around 800 different varieties, the hibiscus garden with some 500 different species, the deerpark, butterfly park and the bird park. The butterfly park boasts a massive collection, with over 6,000 butterflies from 140 species, and claims to be the largest in Asia. Built in 1991, the bird park has more than 2000 birds.

Jalan Parlimenn
Transport: Pasar Seni LRT station.
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours (Lake Gardens); daily 0900-1700 (parks).
Admission: Free. RM2-6 entrance to parks and gardens.

Little India
Explore beyond the Malay mores that Kuala Lumpur wears so proudly on its sleeve and there are traces of a multitude of other cultures that blossom in the city, such as Little India. This historic district is full of colourful streets, especially Jalan Masjid India, which boasts an Indian Muslim mosque as well as sidewalk artists, street traders and shops.

Jalan Masjid India
Transport: Masjid Jamek LRT station.

Millionaires Row
Known locally as either Millionaires Row or Ambassadors Row, Jalan Ampang is lined with the luxurious mansions of the old colonialists who grew rich on the wealth generated by the tin trade. Today, many of these dwellings have been converted into embassies and consulates giving it its alternative name. Curiously, few visitors explore this area even though it gives a lucid insight into the embryonic years of the city. Many of the grand buildings have been given face-lifts over last few years, making it an even more attractive tourist spot.

Jalan Ampang
Transport: Sultan Ismail LRT station.