Kuala Lumpur

Beautiful butterflies and sleek skyline bars are the order of the day in Malaysia’s vibrant capital

- Kate Farr and Rachel Read

1 Perdana Botanical Garden

Perfect for shaking off the cobwebs after a slew of morning meetings, Kuala Lumpur’s oldest public park (1888) offers the opportunity to lose yourself amongst tropical flora and fauna. Wander the Hibiscus Garden and Herbarium, passing the central enclosure where a herd of deer roam freely. From there, it’s a short walk through Perdana’s lush gardens to the Bird Park, a public aviary containing more than 3,000 birds, with peaceful coffee breaks available on the Hornbill Café’s veranda.

Alternatively, head over to the famous Butterfly Park, a tranquil spot where vividly coloured insects live in harmony with Japanese koi and freshwater turtles within a lush landscaped plantation. klbotanicalgarden.gov. my; klbirdpark.com (open 9am-6pm daily; admission RM67/US$16); klbutterflypark.com (open 9am-6pm daily; admission RM24/US$5.8)

2 Masjid Negara, National Mosque of Malaysia

Leaving the Botanical Garden, continue along Jalan Lembah until you come to the Masjid Negara, on your left . Opened in 1965 and since restored in contemporary style, this imposing building has capacity for around 15,000 worshippers. Known for its green-and-blue tiled roof and 73-metre-tall minaret, the country’s national mosque is also notable for its 18-point star-shaped dome, representing all 13 of Malaysia’s states plus the five pillars of Islam. Its sizeable prayer hall is adorned with intricate tiled mosaics, as well as colourful stained-glass windows and elaborate chandeliers. The mosque welcomes non-Muslims outside of prayer times, and robes and headscarves are available to borrow. masjidnegara.gov.my

3 Central Market and Sin Sze Si Ya Temple