Before jetting off to the opposite side of Malaysia we had one full day to enjoy Kuala Lumpur. Given it’s a huge metropolis there are quite a few things to do and the list of essential attractions had some cool stuff on it. We got out early and walked across town to our first destination the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park (Adult Entry 50RM – £10 – $15). The Bird Park boasts the world’s largest walk-in free-flight aviary and therein are many hundreds of different bird species. The park is divided up between into a few sections but all of them have loads of really cool birds just knocking about. We came across a huge peacock right near the entrance. Unfortunately some despicable guests of the park try (and succeed) to pull out their tail feathers ‘for luck’. This poor peacock was not in good condition; it was a shame to get such a depressing welcome. I would be happy to see some very draconian and severe punishments brought in for anyone trying to harm the birds.
Poor peacock looking less than impressive
Luckily, that peacock must be taking one for the team because once we got in there were quite a lot more with stunning plumage, not to mention some other crazy, cool birds like hornbills, parrots, ostriches and more. Here’s a few choice snaps from the visit.
This peacock was much more impressive!
We also got up close and personal to a few of our avian pals with a cheesy photo opportunity.
We covered the whole park in about 3 hours and didn’t really have to rush anything. Once we were finished it was only a short walk to the next stop, a smaller aviary containing the KL Butterfly Garden. The Butterfly Park was only 20RM (£4 – $6) in and good value at that. Inside there are thousands of butterflies absolutely everywhere, some are huge, some colourful, all are beautiful. There are feeding stations throughout which are a good place to capture some close-up photos.
The park isn’t huge but you could easily spend a couple of hours there. On the way out there is a bonus exhibition of other insects from around the world.
Once we had finished with the butterflies we were ready for a rest and some lunch! Unfortunately the one thing lacking around the area is a place for lunch. However I knew there was a café at our next destination so we headed straight there, to the Islamic Arts Museum of Malaysia.
The Islamic Arts Museum (14RM – £3 – $4.50) is a beautiful building; everything looks superb without being over the top, they have the air conditioning cranked to the point you wish for a jumper and they have one of the best museum restaurants you are likely to find anywhere. The 3 course executive lunch was a bit pricey at 130RM / £26 but we were out of options and, to be fair, it really was worth it: The lamb and okra stew was fantastic! We also arrived at the end of the service so we got 2 desserts too: bonus!
Fully fed we made our way around the museum. It is divided up by media and there is a lot to see – it could easily take up a full day on its own. There is everything from amazing, ornate weaponry through to intricate Korans and stunning fabrics from throughout the Muslim world. There is also a really cool section with models and descriptions of various historic mosques around the world that shouldn’t be missed.
We left the IAMM completely knackered but with only one full day on this visit to Kuala Lumpur we had to make the most of it. We’d certainly recommend these three attractions as a must see in the city.
