Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Tin prospectors in the mid-19th century settled the area at the convergence of the Gombok and Klang rivers; the relatively young Kuala Lumpur (known as “KL” by locals) is a burgeoning cosmopolitan, financial center marked by grand skyscrapers and a culturally diverse population of Malays, Indians and Chinese. Old colonial customs and buildings, and modern architectural design intertwine in Kuala Lumpur.
The most notable and visible landmark is the majestic Petronas Twin Towers of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre—one of the tallest buildings in the world. Other top attractions include the Chow Kit market (the city’s largest food and clothing market), the elegant Jamek Mosque and Chinatown. Visitors will also find countless museums and art venues including the National Art Gallery, the Islamic Arts Museum and Istana Budaya, Kuala Lumpur’s state-of-the-art theater.