Many locals will tell you the best view of Kuala Lumpur is not from the Petronas Towers but from KL Tower, because from here the twin towers are in the picture. Menara Kuala Lumpur stands 421 metres tall on Bukit Nanas, a hill wrapped in the protected forest of KL Forest Eco Park, and its pod holds two viewing levels. The indoor Observation Deck gives a 360-degree panorama through glass, while the open-air Sky Deck higher up puts nothing between you and the skyline. On the Sky Deck, the glass-floored Sky Box juts out over the edge for the boldest photos, bought on site. The tower is open daily from morning until late evening, so it works for sunset and night views, and tickets are first come, first served.
How it works: choose the Observation Deck, the Sky Deck or a combination at checkout, then show your voucher at the base of the tower. A shuttle runs up the hill from the entrance on Jalan Punchak. Visits on the Sky Deck are time-limited, so arrive when you can linger.
What to expect: the Sky Deck and the Sky Box close in bad weather for safety, which is common on stormy monsoon afternoons. If weather stops your visit, the counter can issue a revisit ticket valid for seven days, but there are no refunds. Extras such as the mini zoo and the upside-down house are not included.
Making the most of it: come in the hour before sunset and stay until the city lights up. Walk part of the KL Forest Eco Park canopy trail on the way down for a taste of rainforest in the city centre, then continue to Bukit Bintang for dinner.
What to expect
The experience
A lift ride to an indoor observation deck and, with the right ticket, the open-air Sky Deck.
Best time
The hour before sunset, on a clear day.
How long
About an hour at the top.
Tips
Check the sky before you go; the open-air deck closes in storms.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers who want the Petronas Towers in the frame.
- Families
- A quick, easy visit with big views; the Sky Box suits brave older children.
- Couples
- A sunset on the Sky Deck is one of the most romantic hours in the city.
- Pair with
- KL Forest Eco Park, the Petronas Towers and dinner in Bukit Bintang.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is KL Tower better than the Petronas Towers?+
They complement each other. KL Tower has the open-air deck and a view of the twin towers; Petronas has the Skybridge.
What are the opening hours?+
The tower opens daily from 09:00 to 22:00, with last admission an hour before closing.
Is the Sky Box included?+
No, the Sky Box is bought on site at the Sky Deck.
What happens if it rains?+
The Sky Deck closes in bad weather. You can ask at the counter for a revisit ticket valid for seven days.
How tall is KL Tower?+
It stands 421 metres tall on Bukit Nanas hill.
