Best things to do in Kuala Lumpur

See an iconic postmodern structure at Petronas Twin Towers, a symbol of the modern nation and at one time the tallest buildings in the world. After seven years of construction, they officially opened in 1999 and include a retail center, park, twin spires, and two-story skybridge connecting the 41st and 42nd floors of each tower. The steel and glass facade displays a proud Islamic aesthetic influence. Walk the bridge between the two 451.9 m (1,483 ft) skyscrapers for unimpeded views of the city, and admire the well-designed interiors of these architectural landmarks.

Head to KLCC Park for a relaxing natural environment in the midst of a modern metropolis. Designed by esteemed architect and ecological activist Roberto Burle Marx, the park offers a welcome counterpoint to the extreme development of the downtown area, providing 20 hectares (49 acres) of landscaped public space. Head to the huge man-made lake and enjoy traversing the grounds, spotting the ornamental features dotted here and there. Exercise enthusiasts should try out the long jogging track made from a special rubberized material, providing extra comfort and decreasing the chance of injury.

Explore a set of atmospheric Hindu temples at Batu Caves. Located in impressive 400-million-year-old limestone caves, the temples were founded in 1891 by an Indian trader. Today, they have grown into a revered, iconic place of worship and one of the most visited Hindu shrines outside of India. Admire the 42.7 m (140 ft) high statue of Murugan, a Hindu deity, that marks the cave entrance, and head inside to see the attractive interplay of manmade and natural artistry.

Head up to the highest viewpoint in the city at Menara Kuala Lumpur. Opened in 1996, this striking communications tower stands at 421 m (1,381 ft) tall and has become a popular tourist attraction, offering unimpeded 360-views of Kuala Lumpur. The elevator up to the observation area moves at quite a speed, taking just 54 seconds to reach the top. Once at the platform, take things at your own pace, enjoying a sit-down meal from the comfort of the revolving restaurant.

Discover the diversity of Malaysia's avian life at KL Bird Park. See 200 species of bird in their natural habitat across 8.5 hectares (20.9 acres) of well-maintained land, rich in plant life and studded with attractive water features. The park enjoys huge popularity among seasoned birdwatchers, scientists, and nature-lovers, providing an enclosed yet expansive natural environment in which to spot the impressive numbers of feathered creatures that make their home there. Spot hornbills, hawk eagles, ostriches, and Mandarin ducks during your visit, enjoy a feeding-time demonstration with flamingoes and birds of prey, and learn about the park's breeding program at the incubation room and nursery.

Head to Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, a celebrated cultural center in Kuala Lumpur's main tourist district. Established in 1998, this modern museum tells the story of Islam in the country, the continent, and beyond, through a range of temporary exhibits and permanent displays. With more than 7,000 artifacts from across the world, the museum's permanent collection remains the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Admire ancient Islamic glasswork, manuscripts, and textiles, and discover their spiritual and cultural importance in a range of audio-visual experiences.

Visit Central Market Kuala Lumpur, a famous retail and cultural center noted as a Malaysian Heritage Site. Founded in 1888, the iconic Art Deco building originally served the local community as a wet market selling meat and produce. Today it features a traditional stall layout with vendors selling everything from antiques to T-shirts. Head to the annex in the back of the building to see art galleries, performance areas, and shops selling arts and crafts. If you've worked up an appetite, the popular food court offers a range of delicious treats from across the world in a bustling and authentic setting.

Enjoy over 80 attractions spread across 36 hectares (88 acres) at Sunway Lagoon. Opened in 1997, the theme park was greatly expanded in 2008 to include an interactive wildlife park and a huge man-made surfing beach. The "scare" area features audio-visual effects and live actors creating a spooky atmosphere appropriate for all ages. With games of skill and puzzles along with traditional roller-coasters and water rides, you'll find something to get your mind and heart racing.

National Museum narrates the history of Malaysia from prehistoric times, through the rise of the Islamic kingdoms, colonialism, and into the modern era. A mixture of dioramas and historical artifacts bring the past to life. The surprisingly compact and well-laid out museum includes an outdoor section containing traditional houses, ancient burial poles, a steam train engine, and more. The museum complex also encompasses ethnology and craft museums, both of which deserve a visit.

Traverse the bustling streets of BB Park Bukit Bintang, a trendy shopping and entertainment district. With plenty of established malls dominating the local skyline, the streets bustle and hum as shoppers from across the world explore the abundance of brand names and international restaurants. To get your energy back, head to Alor Road for some of the city's best examples of Asian street food. And to really recover after a long day of shopping, pop into one of the area's famous specialist foot and body massage parlors.

Explore Malaysia's wide range of native vegetation at Perdana Botanical Garden, a breath of fresh air in the center of the sprawling metropolis. With sculpted landscape providing both show gardens and thick rainforest, the park displays the country's natural diversity across an expansive, well-maintained area. Make your way across the boardwalk and footpaths to find the wetland section and its abundance of endemic wildlife, then stop by the park's center and inspect the edible garden with fruiting plants and medicinal herbs.

Admire the artistry and spirituality of National Mosque (Masjid Negara), a center of Islamic life in the country. Completed in 1965, the mosque's 73 m (240 ft) minaret and 16-point star roof display modern and dynamic design principles, creating a striking focal point among well-maintained, sprawling gardens. With a capacity of 15,000 people, the scale of the interior impresses, and the simplicity of the design helps to create a calm, soothing atmosphere. Onsite volunteers can provide information and help answer any questions. Appropriate attire is required, but you can borrow it at the entrance if necessary. Note that the mosque welcomes visitors of all nations and faiths, but visiting times for non-Muslims are specific, so check the website to confirm before you go.