Travel Tips & Routes
Your complete guide to getting here, getting around, and making the most of your Petaling Street visit.
01. Getting Here
How to Get to Petaling Street
🚇 By LRT (Light Rail Transit)
The Easiest & Most Recommended Route
This is arguably the best way to arrive. Take the **Kelana Jaya Line (Line 5)** and alight at the **Pasar Seni** station. This station is a major hub, also serving the MRT.
From the station, you are directly connected via a covered walkway to Central Market (Pasar Seni). From Central Market, it is a very short 3-5 minute walk to the main entrance arch of Petaling Street. You cannot get lost.
By MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)
The Modern & Connected Route
You have two excellent MRT station options. First is the **Pasar Seni** station on the **Kajang Line (Line 9)**, which integrates with the LRT station mentioned above.
Alternatively, you can stop at the **Merdeka** station (also Kajang Line), which is at the southern end of Petaling Street. This is a great option if you want to start your tour from the opposite side.
🚕 By Grab / Taxi
The Door-to-Door Option
Using a ride-hailing app like **Grab** is the most convenient option if you have luggage or are in a group. Simply type “Petaling Street” as your destination.
**Warning:** The roads immediately around Petaling Street are extremely congested, especially in the evening. Your driver may have to drop you off a short walk away. Be prepared for traffic.
🚌 By Go KL City Bus
The Free (but Slower) Option
Kuala Lumpur offers a **free** bus service called the Go KL City Bus. The **Purple Line** stops at Pasar Seni. This is a fantastic budget-friendly option, but be aware that the buses can be slow and crowded during peak hours.
02. A Self-Guided Walking Route
A 1-Hour Cultural Walk
🚶♂️ Stop 1: The Main Archway
Location: Jalan Petaling Entrance
Start your journey at the iconic green archway that reads “Petaling Street”. This is the classic photo-op. From here, you are facing the main “dragon” awning of the market. Take a deep breath and dive in.
🚶♂️ Stop 2: The Main Market
Location: Under the Green Awning
Walk slowly through the main market. This is the “replica” market. Observe the art of the bargain, feel the energy, and browse the goods. Don’t forget to look up at the intricate shophouse facades *above* the stalls.
🚶♂️ Stop 3: Kwai Chai Hong (The Art Alley)
Location: Lorong Panggung (Parallel to main street)
Duck out of the main market and find the alley “Kwai Chai Hong.” This once-forgotten lane is now a beautiful art installation with murals depicting 1960s Chinatown life. It’s a must-see and leads to several trendy cafes and bars.
🚶♂️ Stop 4: The Temples (The Culture)
Location: Jalan Tun H S Lee
Just one street over, you’ll find two of KL’s most important religious sites. Visit the **Guan Di Temple** (a 100-year-old Taoist temple) and, further down, the stunning **Sri Maha Mariamman Temple** (KL’s oldest Hindu temple).
🚶♂️ Stop 5: The Food Stalls (The Reward)
Location: The ‘Cross-Street’ (Jalan Hang Lekir)
End your walk at the “cross-street” that intersects Petaling Street. This is where you’ll find the legendary food stalls: Kim Lian Kee (Hokkien Mee), Madam Tang (Muah Chee), and the Air Mata Kucing drink stall. You’ve earned it.
03. Essential Travel Tips
Know Before You Go
💡 1. Cash is King
While larger shops accept cards, the market stalls (food, souvenirs, replicas) are **cash-only**. Bring small denominations of Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
👟 2. Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will be doing a lot of walking on uneven pavement. Prioritize comfort. This is not the place for high heels.
💧 3. Stay Hydrated
Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid. Drink plenty of water. A refreshing *Air Mata Kucing* (longan drink) from the market is the perfect local remedy.
⏰ 4. Best Time to Visit
The market is open all day, but it has two different personalities. Visit in the **morning** (10 AM – 1 PM) for a calmer shopping experience. Visit in the **evening** (6 PM – 10 PM) for the bustling food stalls and electric atmosphere.
Petaling Street isn’t just a place, it’s an experience.
GET LOST, EXPLORE, AND ENJOY.