Merdeka Square is definitely Kuala Lumpur’s most historical area I visited while in Malaysia’s capital city. It is, for sure, a tourist attraction you must not miss when exploring the city. You have never been to Kuala Lumpur without visiting this square.
Historically, the field here was once used for cricket tournaments by the British.
Politically, the same field was a witness to Malaysia’s independence from the British colonies.
That is why the locals also call it Independence Square or Dataran Merdeka.
Nowadays, in summer, this space is a venue for festivals, concerts, and other entertainment events. People still gather here for political affairs.
Merdeka Square is the center of Kuala Lumpur. From here, you can walk to Chinatown, Central Market, Masjid Jamek, etc.
What I like about this square is the view of the contrasting skyline. Visitors don’t have to go up on an elevated space to see how the old blend with the new skyline. All they have to do is just stand in the middle of a grassy square and look or turn around. They’ll see the ancient colonial buildings against a backdrop of modern architecture, including the modern Petronas Towers.
I recommend you walk around the park or the whole square. I started my own walking tour in the area from Masjid Jamek Mosque. Go to the back of the mosque and cross the bridge – and viola, Merdeka Square is right in front of you!
The most stunning building you find here is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.
This all-white building was once the Selangor Clubhouse, the centre of social gatherings for the elite.
Then, of course, you will notice the really tall flagpole at the end of the square. This flagpole held its title as the world’s tallest for 20 years!
On the left side of the flagpole, you will find the National History Museum.
Also behind the flagpole, the huge statue of “I Love KL” stands there with people queueing up a photo op.
Hotel in Kuala Lumpur with a Sky Pool Overlooking the City’s Skyline
I stayed at Expressionz Suites by V&C near downtown Kuala Lumpur. I wrote a request to the hotel staff to give me a room with views of the city. And yay, I got what I wanted! I could see the city’s skyline right from my bed. My suite is clean and it has its own washing machine! The breakfast was good – offering both Malaysian and western food. But most of all, the main hotel amenity that everyone wants to check out is the Sky Pool! You won’t regret looking at the fantastic views here while in your wet swimwear. 😉
Read my full review of Expressionz Hotel here.
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