KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur)
The Best 360-Degree Outdoor View in Kuala Lumpur
Shesmax, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Introduction
If you want the best photos of the Kuala Lumpur skyline, KL Tower is usually the best choice. It is built on a hill called Bukit Nanas, which means it stands quite high even compared to the newer, taller skyscrapers nearby.
The main reason we recommend coming here is the Sky Deck. It is an open-air platform, so you don't have to deal with glass reflections when taking pictures, especially of the Petronas Twin Towers. It’s also one of the few places in the city center where you can experience a high-altitude view and a tropical rainforest in the same visit, as the tower sits right inside a forest reserve.
What to See and Do at KL Tower
Sky Deck & Sky Box
The Sky Deck is an outdoor platform 300 meters above the ground. Because there is no glass, you can feel the wind and get a clear 360-degree view of the city. Included with this is the Sky Box, a glass cube that sticks out from the side of the tower. You can walk into it and look straight down at the ground through the glass floor.
Observation Deck
This is the indoor viewing area located one level below the Sky Deck. It is air-conditioned and has large windows and binoculars. This is a good alternative if you are afraid of heights or if it starts to rain.
Tower Walk 100
For those seeking more adrenaline, this attraction allows you to walk along a transparent glass path on the outside edge of the tower's pod. You are secured by a safety harness as you walk 100 feet around the tower’s exterior.
KL Forest Eco Park
Located at the base of the tower, KL Forest Eco Park is a protected rainforest reserve and one of the oldest forest areas in Kuala Lumpur. It features canopy walkways, jungle trails, and a short escape from the city noise. Entry to the forest park is separate from the tower experience.
KL Tower Mini Zoo
The Mini Zoo is a small animal attraction near the tower compound, mainly aimed at families with young children. While not a must-see, it can be a short add-on visit if you’re already exploring the area.
Getting there and around
KL Tower is situated on a steep hill. While you can walk from the main street, most visitors prefer taking the free shuttle once they reach the gate.
Public Transport
- LRT/Monorail: Stop at Dang Wangi (LRT) or Bukit Nanas (Monorail). Both are a 10-minute walk to the main gate.
- Free Shuttle Van: Once you arrive at the main gate at the bottom of the hill, there is a free shuttle service that runs every 15 minutes (8:00 AM – 10:00 PM) to take you directly to the tower entrance.
By E-Hailing
Using apps like Grab or AirAsia Ride is the most convenient option. Drivers can drive all the way up the hill and drop you directly at the main lobby entrance, saving you the walk from the main gate.
By Car
If you are driving, you can go directly to the tower's main entrance at the top of the hill.
- Parking Rates:
- First hour: RM 4.00
- Every subsequent hour: RM 3.00
- Flat rate (after 6:00 PM): RM 6.00 per entry
- Availability: Parking at the top is limited. During weekends or public holidays, it is often easier to take a Grab or use public transport to avoid congestion on the narrow access road.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see the Petronas Twin Towers?
Yes, KL Tower has one of the best views of the Twin Towers because you are looking at them from a similar height.
What happens if it rains?
The outdoor Sky Deck and Sky Box will close during heavy rain or lightning for safety. If it’s just a light drizzle, they usually stay open, but we recommend checking the weather forecast before you buy your tickets.