Kuala Lumpur Budget Trip: Where to Go for Free and Best Hotels to Stay Under $2

Kuala Lumpur budget trip may be quite impossible for some because knowing that KL is one of the biggest cultural melting pots in the world and being Malaysia’s capital city, it’s really full of five-star hotels and expensive attractions. However, if you look between these things, you’ll find that the city’s rich culture and history is offered for free (or at least very cheap).

So, don’t say goodbye yet to your Kuala Lumpur budget trip! We’re here to help you achieve that!

We’ve rounded up a list of places that requires no admission fee. Make sure to check out these places that you can visit for free to cut down your Kuala Lumpur trip cost!

1. Galeri Petronas

Nearby the Petronas Twin Towers, you’ll find the Galeri Petronas, a free art gallery which boasts local artists and constantly changing exhibitions. From photography to oil paints, you’ll find a huge range of work showcasing the Malaysians’ love for creativity.

2. Central Market

With over 300 shops, Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, also known as the Pasar Seni, is one of the busiest places in the city. Head here to have a look at arts and crafts from the perspective of local tradesmen. You can also find many trinkets and souvenirs you can purchase to take home.

3. Berjaya Times Square

So, you want to see a structure that will truly blow your mind? We recommend you to go to Berjaya Times Square, the biggest shopping mall in the world. That’s right, not the biggest in Malaysia, but the biggest in the world. This incredible structure boasts a huge range of shops and restaurants. There’s also a theme park inside this mall! While it may cost money to make purchases here, it’s free to enter and look around. You can even treat yourself to a quick bite to eat or a relaxing drink for minimal cost.

4. KL Forest Eco Park

Also known as the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, the KL Forest Eco park is a 9-hectare jungle trails with a 656 feet high canopy walk. It’s one of the oldest nature reserves in Malaysia and has some incredible plant life inside. The Eco park also offers guest Nature Trails, Jogging and Trekking Routes (known as Jelutong Trail, Penarahan Trail, Arboretum Trail) and the chance to set up camp and spend the night (with prior permission).

5. Royal Malaysian Police Museum

Another tourist spot in Malaysia that is free admission is the Royal Malaysian Police Museum! This exciting museum offers over 800 artifacts about the city’s history of crime. Find uniforms, patrol vehicles and weaponry used by officers throughout history. This is a unique attraction and one you’re unlikely to find many others attending. Make sure to include this on your Kuala Lumpur budget trip itinerary!

6. Batu Caves

No visit to Kuala Lumpur is complete without a trip to the Batu Caves. This iconic religious sanctuary is Kuala Lumpur’s most famous attraction. After you climb the 272 stairs to the cave, you’ll find intricate and ornate statues and devout Hindu shrines celebrating their religion. Make sure to dress appropriately when going to Batu Caves, this is a religious site and locals won’t be happy if you disrespect it. This is free admission so Batu Caves is definitely perfect for a Kuala Lumpur budget trip!

Best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget

If you want to further cut down your Kuala Lumpur trip cost, make sure to book the best budget hotels in Malaysia. There are so many great budget hotels to check out for under PHP120 ($2.36) per night!

The Bed Station (PHP237/night)

Location: 60A, Jalan Hang Kasturi, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This dormitory features Instagrammable, spacious and well-lit rooms! ZEN Rooms The Bed Station is also situated in a prime location where many restaurants and some tourist attractions are nearby.

ZEN Rooms Basic Near KTM Sentul (PHP498/night)

Location: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Kuala Lumpur 51200, Malaysia

Another best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget is the ZEN Rooms Basic Near KTM Sentul. There is no shortage of things to do or food to try within the vicinity of ZEN Rooms Basic Near KTM Sentul. Within short distance from the property are attractions and restaurants travelers can enjoy.

Rich Calton Hotel & Gallery (PHP1,387/night)

Location: 78, Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Situated at Kuala Lumpur, known as “the sixth most visited city in the world,” Rich Carlton Hotel & Gallery is perfect for business & leisure travelers. This hotel features a 24-hour Front desk, Room Service and Security, free use of Ironing Facilities, free Baggage Storage and an Air conditioned rooms. The hotel staff are kind and efficient making the stay in this hotel more pleasing and attractive.

ZEN Rooms Sakura Boutique Hotel (PHP687/night)

Location: Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 50400, Malaysia

This is one of ZEN Rooms’ top-rated hotels in Malaysia. You can enjoy a huge room complete with amenities. This hotel features stylish interior, rooms with complete toiletries, an elevator, and a buffet breakfast. The hotel is located in one of the main streets of the city and it is easy to find because of its unique exterior.

Hotel Royal Palm Lodge (PHP118/night)

Location: No.85 M & 87 M, Mezennaine Floor Jalan Bukit Bintang,, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 55100, Kuala Lumpur 55100, Malaysia

Hotel Royal Palm Lodge is the lowest rate hotel of ZEN Rooms in Kuala Lumpur! While it’s affordable, guests won’t have to compromise comfort. ZEN Rooms assure that guests will still feel comfortable even if they’re staying in a budget hotel. Part of its amenities, Hotel Royal Palm Lodge offers ironing facilities and minibar for its guests. The kindness and efficiency of the hotel staff makes staying at this premises even more attractive. This is the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur on a budget!

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