If you’re planning a visit to Kuala Lumpur, you should read the rest of this article. Finding things to do in a distant city can be hard, but we’ll list the five things you should not miss in the Malaysian capital. Staff in Malaysia hotels are generally friendly and helpful, and they will help you organize your visit in Kuala Lumpur. Here are five great things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

1. Islamic Arts Museum

Probably the jewel of Muslim Kuala Lumpur, the Islamic Art Museum is the best of its kind in the world. Its collection of textiles, pottery and other decorative arts is certain to impress all lovers of art. Set in a beautiful traditional Muslim building, the museum is one of the most popular sights in Kuala Lumpur. There is even a Lebanese restaurant open for lunch.

2. Cosmo’s World

You’d be surprised by the amount of water and amusement parks around Kuala Lumpur. Cosmo’s World is in a downtown mall, but don’t be fooled: it has a looping roller coaster and a few thrill rides for teenagers. You can find gentler rides for younger children and families. The mall location is perfect for rainy or cooler days, when some of the outdoors parks aren’t available.

3. Guandi Temple

The Guandi temple is a strange sight in an otherwise Muslim city. The temple is dedicated to Kwan Ti, the Taoist god of war. Kwan Ti was a Chinese general who became revered by Taoists. The temple is the place in Kuala Lumpur for traditional Chinese ancestor worship, and is always wonderful to visit.

4. Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens Park

The Lake Gardens Park was originally conceived as an urban retreat for the British colonial administrators of Malaysia. Now a very popular urban park next door to the busy Chinatown, the Lake Gardens Park features landscaped grounds and thick jungle. Take the time to visit the Bird Park, the world’s biggest outdoor aviary. It houses about 200 Southeast Asian bird species, and you can check the feeding time of your favourites to observe them closer.

5. Old Kuala Lumpur Train Station

The Old Kuala Lumpur Train Station is a testament to the glory days of the colonial era. Now a bit old and only in use for suburb commuter trains, the station still had its domes and arches restored during the 1980s. The afternoon is the best time to visit the building, when the golden sunlight hits the still beautiful domes. The Orient Express used to stop by this station from Singapore.

Kuala Lumpur is an extraordinary city with lots of culture, nature and entertainment. Other suggestions: the old Petronas towers, once the highest skyscrapers in the world; the Police museum, with an interesting exhibit of the history of police in the city. Some sights and activities may be included in your hotel package; check with the hotel before making your reservation or ask the reception or concierge staff after your arrival.