Petaling Street Market
Petaling Street Market things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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🇲🇾 Petaling Street Must-Visit Guide | KL's Best Chinatown Adventure!
Ryan AllenRyan Allen
242
Petaling Street Market, locally known as Pasar Jalan Petaling, is the beating heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience. This vibrant and bustling market is famous for its lively atmosphere, bargain shopping, and mouthwatering street food, offering a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors. The market’s architecture blends heritage and modernity, with its traditional shophouses and stalls now covered by a green, dragon-inspired canopy that protects visitors from sun and rain. The market comes alive from morning until late at night, making it a perfect destination for both daytime exploration and evening indulgence. Its narrow, lantern-lit streets are packed with vendors selling everything from clothing, handbags, and watches to souvenirs and handcrafted goods. Bargaining is the norm here, and shoppers often enjoy the thrill of securing the best deals. Food is the soul of Petaling Street Market. The area is a paradise for food lovers, offering a range of local delights such as Hokkien mee, char kway teow, curry laksa, and freshly grilled satays. Don’t miss out on the refreshing air mata kucing (longan drink) or traditional desserts like ais kacang and tau fu fa. The market also holds cultural significance, with iconic landmarks such as the Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Guan Di Temple located nearby, adding a spiritual dimension to the experience. Petaling Street Market is more than just a shopping destination—it’s a cultural journey that showcases the charm of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown. Whether you’re hunting for bargains, savoring local delicacies, or simply soaking in the lively ambiance, this iconic market promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the city.
Anurag ChatterjeeAnurag Chatterjee
00
If u like to watch my experience of visiting this place kindly watch my video on Youtube " Alirenzo " . For more pictures my instagram " Alirenzooo" Chinatown was one of the places that i always loved to visit. Although now it is full of non chinese seller ( mostly arabic, pakestanian and bangeladesh ) but u can still find a lot of chinese symbols, decoration, resturants and shops.The heart of the original Chinatown is at Market Square, Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, also known as High Street. Its elevation made it less susceptible to floods, attracting wealthier residents who built ornate shophouses, particularly north of Jalan Cheng Lock, near the bustling High Street business center. Back in the early 20th century, Kuala Lumpur embodied the spirit of a pioneer town, with a mostly male population, hailing mainly from Cantonese and Hakka backgrounds, drawn by the allure of the tin trade. Yap Ah Loy, a renowned Hakka leader, served as the Chinese Kapitan. The 1860s-1870s witnessed the Selangor Civil War, pitting Malay factions against each other and causing internal strife within the Chinese community. Rival secret societies, Hokkien Ghee Hin and Hakka Hai San, split the Chinese population. British intervention during the war resulted in the destruction of many buildings, disrupting the local economy. The civil war prompted the abandonment of tin mines, leading to their flooding. Post-war, Yap Ah Loy convinced miners and coolies to stay in Kuala Lumpur. He also persuaded Malays in surrounding areas to switch to agriculture. Yap Ah Loy's initiatives included opening a Tapioca Mill in Petaling Street, affectionately known as 'Chee Cheong Kai' in Cantonese, meaning Starch Factory Street.
Ali Reza AghamiriAli Reza Aghamiri
00
Petaling Street, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, is one of Malaysia's most famous cultural and shopping destinations. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, Petaling Street offers a blend of old-world charm and modern commerce, making it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. The street is packed with an array of market stalls, selling everything from clothing, handbags, and shoes to electronics and souvenirs. Many of the items here are affordable, and haggling is a common practice, adding to the dynamic shopping experience. In addition to shopping, Petaling Street is well-known for its variety of local street food and restaurants. Visitors can indulge in authentic Malaysian Chinese delicacies such as Hokkien mee, wanton noodles, roasted duck, and the famous clay pot chicken rice. Many food vendors here have been in business for generations, maintaining traditional flavors that continue to draw in crowds. Petaling Street also has historical significance. It is lined with heritage buildings and old shophouses, some of which date back to the early 20th century. These structures offer a glimpse into Kuala Lumpur’s past and the influence of Chinese immigrants who helped shape the city’s development. By night, Petaling Street transforms into a bustling night market, with the brightly lit stalls creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Whether you're shopping for bargains, sampling delicious food, or simply soaking in the culture, Petaling Street offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Malaysia’s multicultural identity.
Darshana AbeyweeraDarshana Abeyweera
00
Petaling Street also known as Chinatown flea market, located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a bustling area renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, street food, and fashion finds. When it comes to food, Petaling Street is a paradise for food enthusiasts. You can indulge in a wide array of Malaysian delicacies served by street vendors and small eateries lining the streets. The street's atmosphere is filled with the aroma of sizzling woks and the sounds of vendors calling out to passersby, creating an immersive culinary experience. In addition to its culinary delights, Petaling Street is also a haven for fashion lovers. The area is famous for its market stalls and shops selling a diverse range of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at affordable prices. From trendy streetwear to traditional batik garments, you can find something to suit every style and budget. Exploring Petaling Street is not just about indulging in food and shopping; it's also about immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Malaysian culture and heritage. The street's vibrant atmosphere, bustling crowds, and colorful sights and sounds make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of Malaysia. Whether you're sampling local delicacies, hunting for bargains, or simply soaking in the bustling ambiance, Petaling Street offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore the heart and soul of Kuala Lumpur. *** Recommended to read Stephen Abraham's review too.
Arun MenonArun Menon
30
Petaling Street, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, is a bustling marketplace known for its vibrant atmosphere and an extensive array of goods, including a wide range of imitation branded items. This iconic street provides a unique shopping experience that is distinctly Malaysian. As I walked through the crowded lanes, I was enveloped by the lively energy that Petaling Street is famous for. The array of stalls and shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to electronics is staggering. What makes Petaling Street stand out is its reputation as a haven for imitation branded goods. From watches to handbags, the variety is vast, and bargaining is part of the fun. It’s a place where you can haggle to your heart’s content and walk away with some interesting finds at bargain prices. However, shoppers should be aware that these are not authentic branded products. The quality varies, so it’s essential to inspect items carefully before purchasing. For those who enjoy the thrill of finding imitation goods at affordable prices, Petaling Street is a paradise. Apart from shopping, the street food here is a must-try. The variety of local delicacies available is a true reflection of Malaysia’s diverse culinary landscape. The bustling ambiance, coupled with the delicious aromas wafting through the air, adds to the overall experience. While the crowded and narrow lanes might be overwhelming for some, it’s all part of the charm of Petaling Street.
Nelson LeeNelson Lee
00
Nearby Attractions Of Petaling Street Market
Central Market
Merdeka Square
National Mosque of Malaysia
KL Bird Park
Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque
Sultan Abdul Samad Mosque
Taman Eko-Rimba Kuala Lumpur (TERKL)
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection
Swiss-Garden Hotel Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

Central Market
4.3
(19.1K)Click for details

Merdeka Square
4.5
(18K)Click for details

National Mosque of Malaysia
4.8
(9.9K)Click for details

KL Bird Park
4.5
(5.8K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Petaling Street Market
Mollagaa Restaurant
VCR
Ho Kow Hainam Kopitiam
Luckbros Kopi - Petaling Street
Merchant's Lane | Petaling Street Café
Betel Leaf
Niko Neko Matcha 2.0 - Chinatown
Soong Kee Beef Noodles & Low Yau Kee Porridge
Junior Kuppanna - Kuala Lumpur
Mansion Tea Stall Al-Amna Restaurant

Mollagaa Restaurant
4.7
(2.9K)Click for details

VCR
4.3
(2.1K)Click for details

Ho Kow Hainam Kopitiam
4.2
(2K)Click for details

Luckbros Kopi - Petaling Street
4.1
(1.6K)Click for details
Basic Info
Address
Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Map
Phone
+60 3-2032 5988
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Website
facebook.com
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Reviews
Overview
4.1
(12.8K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
entertainment
family friendly
attractions: Central Market, Merdeka Square, National Mosque of Malaysia, KL Bird Park, Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque, Sultan Abdul Samad Mosque, Taman Eko-Rimba Kuala Lumpur (TERKL), The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection, Swiss-Garden Hotel Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park, restaurants: Mollagaa Restaurant, VCR, Ho Kow Hainam Kopitiam, Luckbros Kopi - Petaling Street, Merchant's Lane | Petaling Street Café, Betel Leaf, Niko Neko Matcha 2.0 - Chinatown, Soong Kee Beef Noodles & Low Yau Kee Porridge, Junior Kuppanna - Kuala Lumpur, Mansion Tea Stall Al-Amna Restaurant

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