Museums in Kuala lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysia’s vibrant metropolis, Kuala Lumpur, presents a fascinating fusion of modernity, culture, and history. Its museums draw both tourists and locals with its veritable gold mine of information about science, art, and Malaysian history.

1. The National Museum of Malaysia 

This is Malaysia's primary museum, offering a comprehensive history of the country from prehistoric times to the present. The National Museum was established in 1963, with four primary galleries: natural history, ethnology, the colonial and post-independence histories of the nation.

• Location: Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jln Damansara, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

• Operating Hours:9 am – 5 pm

• Best for: Families, students, and history enthusiasts.

2. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM)

Islamic art and culture are the focus of this museum. One of Southeast Asia's biggest museums dedicated to Islamic art. IAMM was established in 1998. It showcases elaborate collections of global fabrics, pottery, and Islamic manuscripts.

• Location: Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Hours: 9:30 am–6 pm

• Best for: Art, history of Islam, and architecture enthusiasts.

3. Royal Museum 

This magnificent palace served as the Malaysian King's official residence until 2011. Later it was transformed into a museum. A unique window into the way of life of the Malaysian monarchy is provided by the Royal Museum.

• Location : Jln Istana, Istana Negara, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Hours: Temporarily closed for refurbishment starting from March 2022 to April 2025. 

• Best for: People interested in monarchy, family and history.

4. Bank Negara Museum and Art Gallery, Malaysia

This museum combines art and finance instruction in a unique way. It is run by the central bank and has a sizable collection of modern Malaysian art in addition to covering the country's economic history.

• Location:Sasana Kijang, 2, Jalan Dato Onn, Kuala Lumpur, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 10 am–5 pm; Sunday - Closed 

• Best for: Finance, art and travel enthusiast 

5. Muzium Telekom 

From the earliest telegraph days to the present era of mobile communication, this museum traces the history of telecommunications in Malaysia.

• Location:Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Hour: Daily - 9 am–5 pm

• Best for: Students, families with young children, and tech aficionados.

6. The Petrosains Discovery Centre

It is an interactive science and technology museum situated within the landmark Petronas Twin Towers. Its main focus is on the petroleum industry and its everyday applications.

• Location: Petronas Twin Tower, Level 4, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 am to 04:00 pm ; Monday: Closed

• Best for: Science lovers, families with small children, and travelers.

7. Museum of Orang Asli Craft

Committed to protecting and presenting the Orang Asli, Malaysia's indigenous people, and their rich cultural legacy. The numerous Orang Asli tribes' traditional crafts, utensils, and everyday objects are on display at the museum.

• Location:Orang Asli Crafts Museum, Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Hours: Daily: 9 am–5 pm

• Best for: People interested in culture, anthropology, and history.

8. Museum of National Textiles

Malaysia's textile legacy, including customary Indian, Chinese, and Malay textiles, is honored in this museum. It displays the history of textile production in the nation, including methods for hand weaving and dying textiles.

• Location:26, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Hours: 09:00 am - 05:00 pm

• Best for: Fashion designer, history enthusiast, and textile lovers. 

9. The Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

A more compact but very interactive museum that gives a broad perspective of the past, present, and future of the city. The museum provides a brief but comprehensive overview of Kuala Lumpur and is housed in a structure from the colonial era.

• Location : 27, Jln Raja, Dataran Merdeka, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Operating Time : Currently Closed

• Best for : Photo enthusiast

10. National Visual Arts Gallery

In Malaysia, this is the place to go for modern art. A collection of modern and contemporary artwork by regional and worldwide artists is kept in the National Visual Arts Gallery.

• Location: 49, GF, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052

• Opening Time: Tuesday to Sunday - 10:00 am - 06:00 pm ; Monday - Closed

• Best for: Students, art enthusiasts, and travelers seeking out modern art. 

Tips for visiting KL Museums for Local Travellers

• Take advantage of discounts from redBus. Discounted admission fees are available to Malaysian nationals at several museums, particularly for seniors and students. Book tickets from redBus to avail cheaper than counter rates.

• Bring your Identity card. 

• Check for special exhibitions

• Off peak hours are the best time to visit. 

• Plan your day in advance

Tips for visiting KL Museums for Foreign Travellers

• Check the museum operating hours 

• Book tickets online from redBus from anywhere around the world and get instant confirmation. 

• Dress modestly for cultural museums 

• For easy commute use public transport

• Stay hydrated

Why Book Kuala Lumpur Museum Tour from redBus

• Verified vendors for Safe and comfortable travel 

• Family friendly and group option

• Cheaper than counter rates 

• Customized Itineraries