KL Hop On Hop Off Bus - One Day City Bus Trip in Kuala Lumpur
20 Nov 2018 - Have been wanted to go for the KL Hop-on Hop-off bus city tour for quite some time.
Not many people shout out about it online though.
so what's so special about KL hop-on-hop-off bus?
So KL Hop On hop Off Bus introduces the following route:
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MATIC was also STOP 1 where I can buy the bus tickets on the spot. You can also buy the tickets at Sungai Wang, The BUKIT BINTANG kiosk, where they have a proper kiosk to buy tickets and tour package.
2. Our next stop is KL Tower, needless to introduce so much, our very own famous skyscraper building.
KL Tower, 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P Ramlee, 50250, Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/kvrzm5ZARdT2
within walking distance, you stand a chance to walk up to all the bridges up and down in Eco Rimba or Bukit Nanas, the forest just next to KL Tower, which is also named as forest in the city.
After that, we went to try the local Malaysian food at Cafe 360 just located outside KL Tower. This cafe is not in the KL Tower for your info.
Serving you fast and casual food, I would say their services and food are not that bad.
https://www.zomato.com/kuala-lumpur/cafe-360-kuala-lumpur-city-center
https://www.facebook.com/Cafe360-634813396705293/
Call: 03-2020 2121
3. Our next stop was Karyaneka, showcasing all Malaysia's top handcraft goods, such as: Batik, Pewter, Songket, Anyaman, Perak, Seramik, Kristal, Veneer Wood.
I am proud that Malaysia has such a beautiful Malaysian products souvenir store, but of course, I believe the store is more for the tourists who would like to buy a piece of Malaysians souvenirs back home.
It was quite a quiet yet elegant environment when we were there, as in not really busy crowd at here.
However, their website is not up to date.
Their Social media, yes.
https://www.facebook.com/karyaneka/
Karyaneka
Address : Level 3, Bangunan Seri Anjung, Kuala Lumpur Complex Craft, Section 63, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
Phone : 03 - 21649907/8
Email : info@karyaneka.com.my
some bad incident happened to me, I will tell you later at the end of this blog.
As we were waiting to hop on the next bus, we just play around with some guli congkak, our 1970-1980s childhood games.
My favourite game during school time - the Batu Seremban. Inside is the rice, and stitched using batik cloth.
A beautiful city view as we hop on the bus again.
4. Passed by the busy Pavilion shopping centre. Award-winning shopping destination with over 550 retail outlets and restaurants.
https://www.pavilion-kl.com/
Ah ha, finally revisit this old city street. This is how it feels when you always drive in car, and always choosing going to shopping centres or office, and then just lay back at home.
When shall I come to the good old street again, by foot? Well, have to see how the kids if they can be more obedient!
5. Chinatown Kuala Lumpur
Lively, colorful Chinatown is centered on Petaling Street, one of KL’s most historical districts.
As it is called China town, most of the the local chinese or foreigners can be seen selling local Malaysian food at roadside stalls, Chinese eateries.
Chinatown is also a well-known bargain hunter’s paradise – most of them are imitation goods. Meaning to say, LOL, if they say this is Prada bag selling at street, it is a fake Prada bag, okay?
Places of worship in the area include the Taoist Guan Di Temple and the 19th-century Sri Mahamariamman Temple, with a facade of Hindu gods.
Chinatown Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/Z2GXmydvYJG2
6. Always passed by and keep forgetting this building. The bus couldn't stop as there was no bus stop.
Googled and found out it is the old railway station of KL.
The Kuala Lumpur railway station is a Moorish-style building railway station. Completed in 1910, the station was Kuala Lumpur's main railway hub in the city for the Federated Malay States Railways and its successor Keretapi Tanah Melayu (English: Malayan Railways), until Kuala Lumpur Sentral operates in 2001.
The station is notable for its architecture, adopting a mixture of Eastern and Western designs. With the Islamic exterior, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station interior resembles a typical glass and iron Victorian-era English railway building.
It used to house the offices of the Federated Malay States Railways, but now its primary function is that of the administrative head office of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu.
Well, pretty much not a busy main railway station, but more towards a historical site, as there is a hotel (the Heritage Station Hotel), a restaurant and some several souvenir stalls.
The old station is still used for KTM Komuter services.
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
KTM - KUALA LUMPUR Station
Bangunan Stesen Keretapi, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/xDYPgRczSDA2
Oh my god, didn't even know the so-called "Little India" is located at Brickfield, I keep thinking there is another Indian street somewhere near KL. Ah, later googled and realized that the original Jalan Masjid India cultural town shifted to Brickfield, no wonder....
Expect a colorful journey shopping for Indian costumes, textile shops and jewelry stores, all the traditional Indian goods such as saris, spices and Bollywood music.
plus our proudly done Malaysian Indian signature cuisine - the tosai/ dosa and banana-leaf curries. Also in existence with Indian religion, Sri Kandaswamy Kovil is a Hindu temple with golden statues, while Buddhist Maha Vihara temple features a bodhi tree and domed pagoda.
the creamy-yellow arches, the lollipop swirling lamp posts design with purple embellishments, simple brighten up the whole new Little India town. However, expect more India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka people rather than the local Indian Malaysian community resided at this area.
7. Little India
229, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/UmmDrqN4SHJ2
8. Next stop is Muzium Negara, a traditional Malay architecture that keeps national treasures, historical items and of course served as the national museum. Visitors will stand a chance to explore the history of Malaysia starting from the prehistoric era until now. But my past experience visiting the museums was not that good or interesting. Basically a lot of Malay history, and perhaps only like 3-5% mentioning about Chinese and Indian history. I have doubts on their research and historical story, unfortunately. I hope the content can be enhanced to share more multiracial stories instead.
Hence, we did not go in either. We just chill out outside exhibition taking photos with lots of traditional olden days kinda transportations.
I am proud that this Proton Saga was launched in 1985 to promote local Malaysian cars, but then again. Was the locally produced car company deliver the quality?
Very defined luxury perahu or boat
Ah ha, the old school mini bus!
M Station Coffee and Co is a new cosy modern cafe just located outside the entrance of Muzium Negara. I am surprised that hardly information shared about this cafe online.
Cause its set up modern hipster cafe with good air-conditioned, make me feel so relaxed. They serve the normal chips, snacks, muffins, easy going light bites, drinks, etc. Best is still a comfortable area with sofa cushions, bar chairs area, and normal table seatings.
Staff is friendly too.
the old fire engine.
And here is the Kereta Api Tanah Melayu.
We really come that far. Proud of the improvement happening in Malaysia.
Muzium Negara
Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, 50566 Kuala Lumpur.
Emel - pr.mn@jmm.gov.my
Telephone: (+603) 2267 1000 - General Line
Hours of contact: 8.00am - 6.00pm everyday
9. Ah, this is the second time in my life coming to the national palace, Istana Negara that was built in 1928.
This is the new Istana Negara, Jalan Duta is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the monarch of Malaysia. Not sure, if Agong staying inside all the while though, but Istana has always been hype news for people to gather outside the palace when intense politic related events happening, just like our latest May 2018 voting election time. Boy, that was so intense.
During war times, Istana Negara has been used for the Japanese and British army office administration.
Out of the 28-acres land, we only manage to see the majestic palace with a beautifully maintained landscape.
Similar to Overseas royal Palace, two guards stand still with their arch by their side at the main entrance. We try to take a selfie with a barrier in front of the royal guards. Of course, I salute them as being so patient and dedicated to stationed outside 24-7 safeguard the royal family.
They have very serious looks, no smile, no body movement, just stand still. I just smiled and nod to them, and I assume the guards blink their eyes in return to respond to me? Or maybe they just blink eyes coincidently.
I found online that there is an old Istana Negara to be open to the public for visitation, but the Istana I went is JALAN DUTA new Istana Negara.
so the old Istana Negara, the old royal palace is located at JALAN ISTANA. Gosh, so blur.
https://www.star2.com/travel/2018/06/01/what-to-do-royal-museum-kl/
https://www.star2.com/travel/malaysia/2017/05/14/istana-negara-royal-museum/
http://www.jmm.gov.my/en/visit-royal-museum-0
But I read from Trip advisor, most of the tourists aren't happy with the tour of ROYAL MUSEUM.
Istana Negara,
Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim, Bukit Damansara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur,
10. Next stop is the Perdana Botanical Gardens
All of us were with kids, and by the time we reach here was almost 2-3pm. We waste no time on foot, and we took their Shuttle trams that take visitors to all the attractions within Heritage Park. Tickets are valid throughout the day from 9am to 6pm. Ticket Fees: RM6 for adults RM2 for children. We get the shuttle trams at the opposite road of the hop on hop off bus stop. or else, you can refer the information counter, you gonna ask around where is the exact office location.
As he drives us around, Perdana Botanical Gardens, formerly also named as Perdana Lake Gardens, Lake Gardens and Public Gardens, is Kuala Lumpur's first large-scale recreational park.
Measuring at 91.6 hectares, and established in 1888 (what, that long?) Can't remember coming to the lake gardens when I was young though.
http://www.klbotanicalgarden.gov.my/garden-guide/features/forest-tree-collection
Seeing this link above make me crazy, I am yet to explore so many area, for example: Sunken Garden, the square with majestic trees (Laman Perdana) , bamboo playhouse, deer park, bird park, hibiscus and orchid farm,
http://www.kuala-lumpur.ws/magazine/5-todo-lake-garden.htm
Well, when we were on the shuttle trams, little did I know that nearby the lake gardens, there was the national monument, The Islamic Arts Museum, National Planetarium, ASEAN Sculpture Garden
Oh gosh, it seems to see everything, it won't be done in one day, am I gonna overnight at lake garden? XD
Perdana Lake Garden,
Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
http://www.klbotanicalgarden.gov.my
11. Masjid Negara, Malaysia’s National Mosque, as majority Malaysians are Islamic/ Muslim religions
It has a capacity for 15,000 people and is situated among 13 acres of gardens.
Mosque, as you know, served as a prayer's centre for the Muslim prayers time. accomodate 8000 pax, 73-metre-high minaret and an 16-pointed star concrete main light blue roof. (Read somewhere and it is written 18 pointed, so that info was wrong, be careful with online information folks!)
Masjid Negara
Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
12. So the white heritage building is the old railway station, and this brownish building is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (1894) , a late nineteenth-century building just facing in front of our Merdeka square, Dataran Merdeka, where Tunku Abdul Rahman claims the freedom of Malaysia independence in 1957.
In Google, it is written that the Sultan Abdul Samad building house the offices of the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture of Malaysia, but at this link:
http://www.malaysia.travel/en/ay/places/states-of-malaysia/kuala-lumpur/sultan-abdul-samad-building
It mentions it houses the Supreme and High Courts. so, we don't know who occupies the offices for now.
But well oh well, we won't know which government offices using the building anyway, cause I am not working inside! Just curious and confused with different information online.
And when you see pieces of information everywhere, you start to trust those proper online newspaper media, where these few links truly tested my history / sejarah subject in my secondary school times:
https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/sunday-vibes/2018/12/441067/lets-learn-more-about-one-selangors-greatest-rulers-sultan
Ouch, so Sultan Abdul Samad was once of the greatest ruler of Tanah Melayu aka Malaysia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdul_Samad_of_Selangor
The building has a shiny copper dome and probably the most iconic freestanding building structure is the clock tower which is 40 meters high. Does it still working? tsk tsk.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
13. I was so tempted to go down to Dataran Merdeka/ Merdeka Square and shout Merdeka like a crazy woman in the big field, but alas, my group of friends mention they are not going down from the bus, and it was cloudy, hinting it is gonna rain anytime soon. It was almost 4pm, so I have to come some other time I guess, to fulfil my wishlist as a "Malaysian want-to-go before I grow old and regret never being lived like a Malaysian, cause never stepped into these historical/ patriotic places in my own homegrown country" kinda list!
14. Okay, this is weird, but erm, what is so interesting about Medan MARA to be included in the bus tour?
Medan MARA carries the motif design of Masjid Sultan Mehmet of Istanbul, Turkey, and the wood carvings of Istana Bandar Tinggi in Negeri Sembilan.
The dark yellow boat-shaped podium blocks symbolize the spirit of adventure and exploration of knowledge and the desire to pursue progress. This concept reflects the mind of the Malay community who is always ready to explore new areas for the advancement of the nation. Building mural symbolizes the development, progress and socio-economic development of children of the nation.
These two engravings were united to form the edge of the songket cloth, the Malay art tradition. This motif shows also a variety of woven mouldings, that can be seen on Malay picnic mats sometimes.
So what does MARA stand for?
Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), or the Council of Trust for the People, an agency under the purview of the Ministry of Rural Development, was established on 1 March 1966 as a statutory body by an Act of Parliament as a result of the first Bumiputera Economic Congress resolution in 1965.
The Council is responsible for developing, encouraging, facilitating and fostering the economic and social development in the federation, particularly in rural areas.
Medan Mara
21, Jalan Raja Laut, Chow Kit, 50350 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Some beautiful sky view by sitting at the sky deck of the double-decker bus. Oh yeah, we stop by Aquaria KLCC, Citibank, Istana Budaya, Citibank and many more, but some of the buildings, I don't really understand why they are promoting it, for example, Citibank building? What's the history or speciality about the bank?
Or some of the buildings, like Istana Budaya, I couldn't get some nice shots from the bus position. Places like Aquaria, you gonna go inside to see or have some family activities.
So, if you are a traveller, and if you are having a short trip, perhaps day 1 check out KL Hop on Hop Off bus, then you mark down places you really want to go on the following days, given say that for each place or things to do, you might spend a few hours like 2-3 hours at least.
15. finally, last stop! And yes, the iconic twin tower KLCC!
The Petronas Twin Towers, the twin skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 and remain the tallest twin towers in the world. Proud to be Malaysian during Mahathir ruling!
It is really a different view to be seen from the bus sky deck. We stayed at here for a quick 10 mins, seem the longest time the bus stop for us for shooting, was like finally.
Others stop was like 1-3 minutes or during traffic congestion, they only stop like 1 minute and go!
This was the map I used during my bus tour, but they have the latest revised bus tour, better check with their website for full info.
Some reviews and feedback:
As I was so busy with my little ones, I left my whole family bag in the bus and the bus just left the stop at Karyaseni!
Luckily, we manage to snap the group photo and zoom to check the bus plate number, we called the hotline and explain to them what happened. The person in charge told us the best is go to Sungai Wang Kiosk, as that is the only proper kiosk of kl hop on hop off bus. The staff communicate using walkie talkie within the bus operators and tour guides. Lucky enough, they manage to arrange the bag pick up from their kiosk
Luckily, hop on hop off bus is a systematic bus tour agency. Imagine if it is a typical public bus and we don't even bother to remember plate number. Or well, if I left my own personal bags with money and ID inside, I will be crying out loud!
Oh yeah, I chase the bus like a crazy hen, and of course I couldn't chase the bus!
https://www.myhoponhopoff.com/shop/index.php
Facebook, they will try their best to reply to you:
https://www.facebook.com/klhoponhopoff/
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Last but not least, a simple video tour for you to enjoy:
Not many people shout out about it online though.
so what's so special about KL hop-on-hop-off bus?
- Double-decker bus with the top sky deck
- Explore the city with a panoramic view visiting more than 20 stops. On 15 Dec 2018, they introduce 30 stops.
- OKU Disabled friendly.
- they mention the bus has WIFI, but we didn't use it, so we are not sure how great the WIFI is.
- 24 hours ticket, meaning to say if you start your bus journey at 12pm on the first day, you can keep the ticket and use the same ticket till the next day 12pm.
- Controlled price ticket, instead of an open price when seeing tourists
So KL Hop On hop Off Bus introduces the following route:
- City route
- garden route
- historical area
- skyscraper
- food/ shopping
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- So, we parked our cars in MATIC, the Malaysia Tourism Centre, which is FREE parking for one whole day.
MATIC was also STOP 1 where I can buy the bus tickets on the spot. You can also buy the tickets at Sungai Wang, The BUKIT BINTANG kiosk, where they have a proper kiosk to buy tickets and tour package.
2. Our next stop is KL Tower, needless to introduce so much, our very own famous skyscraper building.
KL Tower, 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P Ramlee, 50250, Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/kvrzm5ZARdT2
within walking distance, you stand a chance to walk up to all the bridges up and down in Eco Rimba or Bukit Nanas, the forest just next to KL Tower, which is also named as forest in the city.
After that, we went to try the local Malaysian food at Cafe 360 just located outside KL Tower. This cafe is not in the KL Tower for your info.
Serving you fast and casual food, I would say their services and food are not that bad.
https://www.zomato.com/kuala-lumpur/cafe-360-kuala-lumpur-city-center
https://www.facebook.com/Cafe360-634813396705293/
Call: 03-2020 2121
3. Our next stop was Karyaneka, showcasing all Malaysia's top handcraft goods, such as: Batik, Pewter, Songket, Anyaman, Perak, Seramik, Kristal, Veneer Wood.
I am proud that Malaysia has such a beautiful Malaysian products souvenir store, but of course, I believe the store is more for the tourists who would like to buy a piece of Malaysians souvenirs back home.
It was quite a quiet yet elegant environment when we were there, as in not really busy crowd at here.
However, their website is not up to date.
Their Social media, yes.
https://www.facebook.com/karyaneka/
Karyaneka
Address : Level 3, Bangunan Seri Anjung, Kuala Lumpur Complex Craft, Section 63, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
Phone : 03 - 21649907/8
Email : info@karyaneka.com.my
some bad incident happened to me, I will tell you later at the end of this blog.
As we were waiting to hop on the next bus, we just play around with some guli congkak, our 1970-1980s childhood games.
My favourite game during school time - the Batu Seremban. Inside is the rice, and stitched using batik cloth.
A beautiful city view as we hop on the bus again.
4. Passed by the busy Pavilion shopping centre. Award-winning shopping destination with over 550 retail outlets and restaurants.
https://www.pavilion-kl.com/
Ah ha, finally revisit this old city street. This is how it feels when you always drive in car, and always choosing going to shopping centres or office, and then just lay back at home.
When shall I come to the good old street again, by foot? Well, have to see how the kids if they can be more obedient!
5. Chinatown Kuala Lumpur
Lively, colorful Chinatown is centered on Petaling Street, one of KL’s most historical districts.
As it is called China town, most of the the local chinese or foreigners can be seen selling local Malaysian food at roadside stalls, Chinese eateries.
Chinatown is also a well-known bargain hunter’s paradise – most of them are imitation goods. Meaning to say, LOL, if they say this is Prada bag selling at street, it is a fake Prada bag, okay?
Places of worship in the area include the Taoist Guan Di Temple and the 19th-century Sri Mahamariamman Temple, with a facade of Hindu gods.
Chinatown Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/Z2GXmydvYJG2
6. Always passed by and keep forgetting this building. The bus couldn't stop as there was no bus stop.
Googled and found out it is the old railway station of KL.
The Kuala Lumpur railway station is a Moorish-style building railway station. Completed in 1910, the station was Kuala Lumpur's main railway hub in the city for the Federated Malay States Railways and its successor Keretapi Tanah Melayu (English: Malayan Railways), until Kuala Lumpur Sentral operates in 2001.
The station is notable for its architecture, adopting a mixture of Eastern and Western designs. With the Islamic exterior, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station interior resembles a typical glass and iron Victorian-era English railway building.
It used to house the offices of the Federated Malay States Railways, but now its primary function is that of the administrative head office of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu.
Well, pretty much not a busy main railway station, but more towards a historical site, as there is a hotel (the Heritage Station Hotel), a restaurant and some several souvenir stalls.
The old station is still used for KTM Komuter services.
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
KTM - KUALA LUMPUR Station
Bangunan Stesen Keretapi, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/xDYPgRczSDA2
Oh my god, didn't even know the so-called "Little India" is located at Brickfield, I keep thinking there is another Indian street somewhere near KL. Ah, later googled and realized that the original Jalan Masjid India cultural town shifted to Brickfield, no wonder....
Expect a colorful journey shopping for Indian costumes, textile shops and jewelry stores, all the traditional Indian goods such as saris, spices and Bollywood music.
plus our proudly done Malaysian Indian signature cuisine - the tosai/ dosa and banana-leaf curries. Also in existence with Indian religion, Sri Kandaswamy Kovil is a Hindu temple with golden statues, while Buddhist Maha Vihara temple features a bodhi tree and domed pagoda.
the creamy-yellow arches, the lollipop swirling lamp posts design with purple embellishments, simple brighten up the whole new Little India town. However, expect more India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka people rather than the local Indian Malaysian community resided at this area.
7. Little India
229, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
https://goo.gl/maps/UmmDrqN4SHJ2
8. Next stop is Muzium Negara, a traditional Malay architecture that keeps national treasures, historical items and of course served as the national museum. Visitors will stand a chance to explore the history of Malaysia starting from the prehistoric era until now. But my past experience visiting the museums was not that good or interesting. Basically a lot of Malay history, and perhaps only like 3-5% mentioning about Chinese and Indian history. I have doubts on their research and historical story, unfortunately. I hope the content can be enhanced to share more multiracial stories instead.
Hence, we did not go in either. We just chill out outside exhibition taking photos with lots of traditional olden days kinda transportations.
I am proud that this Proton Saga was launched in 1985 to promote local Malaysian cars, but then again. Was the locally produced car company deliver the quality?
Very defined luxury perahu or boat
Ah ha, the old school mini bus!
M Station Coffee and Co is a new cosy modern cafe just located outside the entrance of Muzium Negara. I am surprised that hardly information shared about this cafe online.
Cause its set up modern hipster cafe with good air-conditioned, make me feel so relaxed. They serve the normal chips, snacks, muffins, easy going light bites, drinks, etc. Best is still a comfortable area with sofa cushions, bar chairs area, and normal table seatings.
Staff is friendly too.
the old fire engine.
And here is the Kereta Api Tanah Melayu.
We really come that far. Proud of the improvement happening in Malaysia.
Muzium Negara
Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, 50566 Kuala Lumpur.
Emel - pr.mn@jmm.gov.my
Telephone: (+603) 2267 1000 - General Line
Hours of contact: 8.00am - 6.00pm everyday
9. Ah, this is the second time in my life coming to the national palace, Istana Negara that was built in 1928.
This is the new Istana Negara, Jalan Duta is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the monarch of Malaysia. Not sure, if Agong staying inside all the while though, but Istana has always been hype news for people to gather outside the palace when intense politic related events happening, just like our latest May 2018 voting election time. Boy, that was so intense.
During war times, Istana Negara has been used for the Japanese and British army office administration.
Out of the 28-acres land, we only manage to see the majestic palace with a beautifully maintained landscape.
Similar to Overseas royal Palace, two guards stand still with their arch by their side at the main entrance. We try to take a selfie with a barrier in front of the royal guards. Of course, I salute them as being so patient and dedicated to stationed outside 24-7 safeguard the royal family.
They have very serious looks, no smile, no body movement, just stand still. I just smiled and nod to them, and I assume the guards blink their eyes in return to respond to me? Or maybe they just blink eyes coincidently.
I found online that there is an old Istana Negara to be open to the public for visitation, but the Istana I went is JALAN DUTA new Istana Negara.
so the old Istana Negara, the old royal palace is located at JALAN ISTANA. Gosh, so blur.
https://www.star2.com/travel/2018/06/01/what-to-do-royal-museum-kl/
https://www.star2.com/travel/malaysia/2017/05/14/istana-negara-royal-museum/
http://www.jmm.gov.my/en/visit-royal-museum-0
But I read from Trip advisor, most of the tourists aren't happy with the tour of ROYAL MUSEUM.
Istana Negara,
Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim, Bukit Damansara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur,
10. Next stop is the Perdana Botanical Gardens
All of us were with kids, and by the time we reach here was almost 2-3pm. We waste no time on foot, and we took their Shuttle trams that take visitors to all the attractions within Heritage Park. Tickets are valid throughout the day from 9am to 6pm. Ticket Fees: RM6 for adults RM2 for children. We get the shuttle trams at the opposite road of the hop on hop off bus stop. or else, you can refer the information counter, you gonna ask around where is the exact office location.
As he drives us around, Perdana Botanical Gardens, formerly also named as Perdana Lake Gardens, Lake Gardens and Public Gardens, is Kuala Lumpur's first large-scale recreational park.
Measuring at 91.6 hectares, and established in 1888 (what, that long?) Can't remember coming to the lake gardens when I was young though.
http://www.klbotanicalgarden.gov.my/garden-guide/features/forest-tree-collection
Seeing this link above make me crazy, I am yet to explore so many area, for example: Sunken Garden, the square with majestic trees (Laman Perdana) , bamboo playhouse, deer park, bird park, hibiscus and orchid farm,
http://www.kuala-lumpur.ws/magazine/5-todo-lake-garden.htm
Well, when we were on the shuttle trams, little did I know that nearby the lake gardens, there was the national monument, The Islamic Arts Museum, National Planetarium, ASEAN Sculpture Garden
Oh gosh, it seems to see everything, it won't be done in one day, am I gonna overnight at lake garden? XD
Perdana Lake Garden,
Jalan Kebun Bunga, Tasik Perdana, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
http://www.klbotanicalgarden.gov.my
11. Masjid Negara, Malaysia’s National Mosque, as majority Malaysians are Islamic/ Muslim religions
It has a capacity for 15,000 people and is situated among 13 acres of gardens.
Mosque, as you know, served as a prayer's centre for the Muslim prayers time. accomodate 8000 pax, 73-metre-high minaret and an 16-pointed star concrete main light blue roof. (Read somewhere and it is written 18 pointed, so that info was wrong, be careful with online information folks!)
Masjid Negara
Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
12. So the white heritage building is the old railway station, and this brownish building is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (1894) , a late nineteenth-century building just facing in front of our Merdeka square, Dataran Merdeka, where Tunku Abdul Rahman claims the freedom of Malaysia independence in 1957.
In Google, it is written that the Sultan Abdul Samad building house the offices of the Ministry of Information, Communications and Culture of Malaysia, but at this link:
http://www.malaysia.travel/en/ay/places/states-of-malaysia/kuala-lumpur/sultan-abdul-samad-building
It mentions it houses the Supreme and High Courts. so, we don't know who occupies the offices for now.
But well oh well, we won't know which government offices using the building anyway, cause I am not working inside! Just curious and confused with different information online.
And when you see pieces of information everywhere, you start to trust those proper online newspaper media, where these few links truly tested my history / sejarah subject in my secondary school times:
https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/sunday-vibes/2018/12/441067/lets-learn-more-about-one-selangors-greatest-rulers-sultan
Ouch, so Sultan Abdul Samad was once of the greatest ruler of Tanah Melayu aka Malaysia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdul_Samad_of_Selangor
The building has a shiny copper dome and probably the most iconic freestanding building structure is the clock tower which is 40 meters high. Does it still working? tsk tsk.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building
Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
13. I was so tempted to go down to Dataran Merdeka/ Merdeka Square and shout Merdeka like a crazy woman in the big field, but alas, my group of friends mention they are not going down from the bus, and it was cloudy, hinting it is gonna rain anytime soon. It was almost 4pm, so I have to come some other time I guess, to fulfil my wishlist as a "Malaysian want-to-go before I grow old and regret never being lived like a Malaysian, cause never stepped into these historical/ patriotic places in my own homegrown country" kinda list!
14. Okay, this is weird, but erm, what is so interesting about Medan MARA to be included in the bus tour?
Medan MARA carries the motif design of Masjid Sultan Mehmet of Istanbul, Turkey, and the wood carvings of Istana Bandar Tinggi in Negeri Sembilan.
The dark yellow boat-shaped podium blocks symbolize the spirit of adventure and exploration of knowledge and the desire to pursue progress. This concept reflects the mind of the Malay community who is always ready to explore new areas for the advancement of the nation. Building mural symbolizes the development, progress and socio-economic development of children of the nation.
These two engravings were united to form the edge of the songket cloth, the Malay art tradition. This motif shows also a variety of woven mouldings, that can be seen on Malay picnic mats sometimes.
So what does MARA stand for?
Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), or the Council of Trust for the People, an agency under the purview of the Ministry of Rural Development, was established on 1 March 1966 as a statutory body by an Act of Parliament as a result of the first Bumiputera Economic Congress resolution in 1965.
The Council is responsible for developing, encouraging, facilitating and fostering the economic and social development in the federation, particularly in rural areas.
Medan Mara
21, Jalan Raja Laut, Chow Kit, 50350 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Some beautiful sky view by sitting at the sky deck of the double-decker bus. Oh yeah, we stop by Aquaria KLCC, Citibank, Istana Budaya, Citibank and many more, but some of the buildings, I don't really understand why they are promoting it, for example, Citibank building? What's the history or speciality about the bank?
Or some of the buildings, like Istana Budaya, I couldn't get some nice shots from the bus position. Places like Aquaria, you gonna go inside to see or have some family activities.
So, if you are a traveller, and if you are having a short trip, perhaps day 1 check out KL Hop on Hop Off bus, then you mark down places you really want to go on the following days, given say that for each place or things to do, you might spend a few hours like 2-3 hours at least.
15. finally, last stop! And yes, the iconic twin tower KLCC!
The Petronas Twin Towers, the twin skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 and remain the tallest twin towers in the world. Proud to be Malaysian during Mahathir ruling!
It is really a different view to be seen from the bus sky deck. We stayed at here for a quick 10 mins, seem the longest time the bus stop for us for shooting, was like finally.
Others stop was like 1-3 minutes or during traffic congestion, they only stop like 1 minute and go!
This was the map I used during my bus tour, but they have the latest revised bus tour, better check with their website for full info.
Some reviews and feedback:
- Operating hours: 9am - 8pm
- bus interval: every 20 -30 minutes, which is true and efficient by far.
- Bus city tour will be definitely a controlled tour price package, to compare with other travel tour agency with their open price. For this, it is a good budget control.
- For Malaysians, just spend RM25 to check out so many stops, minus off parking, etc. What's more you can get?
- For a city born girl like me, it is still fascinating to learn my own home grown city. We don't really go visit historical buildings during my childhood times. My kids were excited to hop on a double-decker bus with sky deck view. It is like a brand new transport experience for them.
- Sometimes, they will have live crew commentary. However, we barely could listen anything at the top. I suggest the bus agency to have some automatic slideshow shown on the TV instead, since we probably prefer some simple visuals introducing each places along with English subtitles. Hence, some of the buildings, I didn't know what is the crew is talking about.
- And then when the driver stop at each stop, they didn't even ask the passengers whether they want to go down or not. As the passengers from the top making way going down to the bus, the driver has already start driving, making everyone shout and ask him to press brake. The whole stopping scene was done only within 10-20 seconds. There is no bell ring alarming the driver that there is passenger coming down from the top deck.
As I was so busy with my little ones, I left my whole family bag in the bus and the bus just left the stop at Karyaseni!
Luckily, we manage to snap the group photo and zoom to check the bus plate number, we called the hotline and explain to them what happened. The person in charge told us the best is go to Sungai Wang Kiosk, as that is the only proper kiosk of kl hop on hop off bus. The staff communicate using walkie talkie within the bus operators and tour guides. Lucky enough, they manage to arrange the bag pick up from their kiosk
Luckily, hop on hop off bus is a systematic bus tour agency. Imagine if it is a typical public bus and we don't even bother to remember plate number. Or well, if I left my own personal bags with money and ID inside, I will be crying out loud!
Oh yeah, I chase the bus like a crazy hen, and of course I couldn't chase the bus!
https://www.myhoponhopoff.com/shop/index.php
Facebook, they will try their best to reply to you:
https://www.facebook.com/klhoponhopoff/
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Last but not least, a simple video tour for you to enjoy:
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