Kuala Lumpur is one of the top destinations in the world for shopping and it's easy to understand why. It has malls that fit every budget, bargain to high end, from bazaars to night markets, to specialty stalls to luxury malls. It is a no brainer that Kuala Lumpur is one of the hottest shopping destinations in Southeast Asia.
Kuala Lumpur Shopping Specialties
Since a mix of cultures live in Malaysia, there is a mix of local crafts to buy.
- Wayang Kulit is a shadow puppet used for theater in Malay traditions. They are colorful and often made with leather.
- Batik Fabric is tie dye with eclectic of colors and designs. You can buy fabric or get a shirt or dress, in women and men's clothing.
- Indian Silk Sarees are a traditional southern Indian outfit made with bright and bold colors.
- Indian Spices are plentiful in Malaysia as they are one of the biggest groups in Malaysia. Stock up on cardamom and saffron!
- Chinese Ceramics are beautiful, but Baba-Nyonya vases are only unique to Malaysia.
All of these items can be found for a bargain price at a bazaar or at a high end shopping mall.
Shopping Areas in Kuala Lumpur
There isn't a neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur that doesn't have some sort of special shopping area, whether it is a bazaar or hip shopping mall. One of the most famous - or rather infamous - shopping areas is in Chinatown. Petaling Street is where you get knock offs of brand name items and local items. If you need something, you find it here, and for cheap.
And as much as it is fun to explore bazaars, Malaysia is famous for their malls. Be prepared for a mall to be packed to the brim on weekends, as it seems to be the national pass time. While Suria KLCC, Bangsar Village, and Mid Valley are the most famous, it is Times Square that is the largest with 10 levels of fashion stores, food courts, cinemas, and an amusement park equipped with a roller coaster.
Markets in Kuala Lumpur
Central Market
Built in 1928, Central Market is Kuala Lumpur's most famous and most popular tourist attraction. Stores are run by the artistic community and are full of local merchandise.
Address: Jalan Hang Kasturi, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
Chow Kit Market
Chow Kit Market is home to the Red Light District and the most popular local market. It's not for everyone though. It takes a thick skin to make it through the crowds and vendors. Those that brave the claustrophobic atmosphere can get a serious bargain.
Address: 484, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Supermarkets in Kuala Lumpur
The main supermarket chains in Malaysia are:
- 7-11
- Cold Storage
- Tesco
- Jusco
- Giant
- Isetan
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