Central Market, Kuala Lumpur

This fine example of Kuala Lumpur’s architectural heritage also doubles as an air-conditioned arts and crafts market and shopping at Central market is the best way to discover the place.

Need refreshment or a tasty Asian meal? Much of the upstairs as well as outside is given over to pubs and restaurants with great atmosphere. The annex building also contains eateries and two discos.

At the riverside amphitheatre outside, rich cultural experiences await. Enjoy performances, demonstrations and hands-on batik painting. Also, find out more about heritage activities like Chinese fortune-telling, Malay shadow puppet plays and Indian dances.

Inside, local artists also sell paintings while they demonstrate their artistry on-site. The Central Market is also a treasure trove of traditional arts and crafts. Several pieces of furniture can also be found upstairs.

Cultural performance such as Bangsawan (Malay Traditional Theatre), Wayang Kulit (Shadow Play), Chinese Opera, Nadagam (Indian Traditional Theatre) are held here during weekends. Performances are free and normally start at 7.45pm.

Central Market is situated at the border of Chinatown, so it would be a good idea to wind-up with Chinatown walking tour at Central Market.

You’ll want to hone your bargaining skills before you plunge into the markets.

Beware of pickpockets and bag-slashers in the crowds.

Central Market open daily from 10am to 10pm. The admission is free.

By Foot or Taxi
Central Market is on Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, opposite the Klang Bus Stand.

By Train
The Pasar Seni station on the PUTRA LRT line is right outside Central Market.

Kuala Lumpur:

• Next top sight:Chinatown
• Kuala Lumpur Guide
• Kuala Lumpur Food Guide
• Kuala Lumpur Hotels Guide
• Kuala Lumpur Shopping Guide