Central Market, Kuala Lumpur

An extremely famous tourist destination, the Central Market Kuala Lumpur is an iconic landmark of this city. Located in the heart of the city center, the market has been in existence since 1888. Once only a wet market, the place was re-established in the 1980s as the current-day Central Market. 

Also known as Pasar Seni, the market is a paradise for art lovers and shopaholics. Hundreds of stalls line the streets with authentic handicrafts, fabulous boutiques, traditional Malaysian batik items, and numerous souvenirs. A significant cultural marker for the city as well as the country, the Central Market is an official Heritage Site which has been often compared with the likes of Fisherman’s Wharf (San Francisco) and Covent Garden (London). 

Aside from the endless shopfronts and food stalls, Central Market is also an important site for several cultural celebrations such as the Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and the Indian festival of Deepavali. Come during one of these events and you will witness several exhibitions and cultural events taking place here. The market is easily accessible via bus, train, and taxi from all parts of the city.

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• Walk through the historic lanes of Central Market which is one of the oldest markets of Kuala Lumpur that has been in existence since 1888 and revamped in 1980.
• Visit different varieties of stalls lining the streets and shop to your heart’s content buying local artworks, paintings and keepsakes.
• Indulge in a relaxing foot massage at the Manjakaki Spa Centre to soothe your muscle aches after a full day of shopping at the Central Market.
• Obtain a Must Visit Trail Card, visit all the twelve attractions mentioned on the card and collect stamps to finish the card and win a prize.
• Savour delectable street food and snacks in the alfresco food stalls along the Kasturi Walk.
• Take part in compelling fun activities like fortune telling, henna art, writing Chinese Calligraphy and buying carved Chinese Seals.

The Central Market Kuala Lumpur is located in the city center and can be easily accessed from any part of the city. If you are trying to get to the market, here are the following options you can try:

By Taxi:

This is the fastest but the most expensive way to get to the market. 

By Train:

Depending on where you travel from, you can either take the Kelana Jaya Line to get to Pasar Seni station which is right opposite the central market; or, you could take the Ampang Line to get to Masjid Jamek Station which is approximately 15 minutes’ walk from the Central Market.

By Bus:

There are three kinds of bus services you can avail to come to the market. The first option is to take the usual Rapid KL bus. Alternatively, you can get on the KL hop-on-hop-off city tour bus that makes a stop right outside the market. Lastly, you can avail the free Go KL tourist bus (Purple line) which will drop you right opposite the market.

On Foot:

Central Market is only a 5 minutes’ walking distance from Chinatown.

Check Out: Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

Places to Visit near Central Market

1. Chinatown, Petaling Street

A lively market place with stalls selling everything from souvenirs to street food, the ‘Chinatown of Kuala Lumpur’ is a bustling place to explore, especially in the evening. It’s also a good place to shop for fake branded products. 

2. Kuan Ti Temple

In existence for as long as the Central Market, the iconic temple with a hard-to-miss bright orange façade is a shrine dedicated to the Taoist God of War, Guandi. Visitors have a chance to appreciate replicas of the weapons used by the patron saint of martial arts. 

3. Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Built in 1873, the temple is the main place of worship for Hindus in Kuala Lumpur. Constructed with gorgeous Italian and Spanish tiles, the temple has five tiers adorned with Hindu deities, and an imposing 75 feet tower that serves as the entrance for the inner sanctum.

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Places to Eat in Central Market

There are quite a few places in and around the Central Market to grab a casual bite or have a hearty lunch or dinner. Here are a few of them:

1. Ginger Thai Cuisine

Located within the Central Market complex, the place is known to be one of the best choices for Thai delicacies. The restaurant also serves Asian, Indochinese, and Seafood items. 

2. Food Court

The Central Market has a substantial food court located at the Mezzanine floor. There are several different food stalls at the court that serve coffee and light snacks to authentic Malaysian chicken rice and Roti Canai.  

3. Rasa Kelantan

Specializing in halal, Asian and traditional Malaysian cuisine, Rasa Kelantan is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. 

Must Read: Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur

Places to Stay near Central Market

There are a lot of accommodation options near Central market. Some of the most recommended ones are:

1. Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown

Within a walking distance from the Central Market, the hotel offers 24-hour front desk and a range of fully-furnished guest rooms. The property offers complimentary WiFi throughout. 

2. Travelodge City Center

A stone’s throw away from Chinatown and the Central market, the Travelodge City Center offers contemporary rooms with ensuite bathrooms, currency exchange, and a friendly 24-hour front desk.

3. Space Hotel @Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

A unique accommodation option featuring capsule-style single and double bedrooms, the Space Hotel is a great choice for solo and group travellers as well as female travellers, who can rent a bunk at one of the female-only dorms. 

Also Read: Resorts in Kuala Lumpur

Tips to Visit Central Market

Central Market Kuala Lumpur is a great place to be with friends and family. Here are a few things you should keep in mind while visiting the market:

- The market has been in existence since 1888 and is considered a Malaysian heritage. Be respectful of the surroundings.

- The shopping complex has much more than just stores. The annexe, situated behind the main building, is a great spot for art lovers as well as young adults. 

- There are plenty of restaurants within the market. So, you can always stop for a quick bite or a proper meal.

- Exploring the market could take a bit of time and more walking than usual. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

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