Petaling Street
Petaling Street, the centre of Kuala Lumpur's original Chinatown,
maintains much of its traditional atmosphere, particularly at night
when vendors fan out their merchandise along the street.
While you can shop for anything from gems and incense to toys and
t-shirts, the true allure of this night market is in wandering about
and enjoying its sights, sounds and energy. Food is plentiful here
with many scrumptious varieties to choose from; some of the restaurants
here have been in business for generations. Locals flock to Petaling
Street primarily for bargain accessories and great Chinese food.
So, go on, be brave - head down to Petaling Street with an empty
stomach and an adventurous spirit. Even if you don't spend a penny,
(which will be hard!), you are guaranteed to have an amazing experience
here.
At the end of Petaling Street, you can further explore the Chan
See Shu Yuen Temple which dates back to 1906. The interior of this
building features open courtyard pavilions, intricate carvings and
paintings. On the exterior, the temple depicts elaborate glazed
ceramic sculptures which grace the facade and roof ridges.
For more adventurous tourists, further down from Petaling Street
is the South Indian Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. This temple is situated
at Jalan Tun H.S.Lee which is within walking distance from Chinatown.
Built in 1873, the temple is said to be the most ornate and elaborate
Hindu temple in the country. The design and decorative features
include intricate carvings of Hindu deities, gold embellishments,
precious stones and hand-painted motifs. Exquisite Italian and Spanish
tiles provide further ornamentation. A silver chariot housed within
the premises features prominently in religious processions, transporting
the statue of the deity through the city streets.
Outside the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple are stalls selling garlands
and strings of sweet smelling jasmine. Additionally, the strong
aroma of Chinese traditional herbs and that of freshly brewed coffee
waft through the air from across the street.
 Key
Tips |
If you would like to visit the temples, they are only open during
the day. However, the best food and shopping is available at night.
| How
to get there |
By Foot or Taxi
Petaling Street is opposite the Kotaraya Shopping Complex and Central
Market.
By Train
The Pasar Seni station on the PUTRA LRT down the street from the
beginning of Petaling Street.
| Who
to contact |
For more information, please contact the Kuala Lumpur Tourist Office
Tel: +603-2615 8188 Tourism Infoline : 1-300-88-5776
|
