Centred around a colourful market, Chow Kit is a bustling suburb near the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It is named after a prominent local miner and the owner of Chow Kit & Co., which was once the largest department store in the city. Chow Kit is clustered with globally-inspired eateries that reflect its multicultural population.
Things to do in Chow Kit
At the heart of Chow Kit is its lively traditional market where you can buy everything from fresh produce and clothing to homewares. Photograph the piles of fragrant spices and haggle for freshly caught fish, then feast on a steaming bowl of noodles in the small food court. The surrounding streets are packed with casual eateries serving authentic Malaysian fare.
For a more upmarket dining experience, head to The Row, a series of pre-war shophouses that have been converted into trendy cafes, cocktail bars and concept retail stores. Dine alfresco overlooking the landscaped plaza or grab a refreshment in the shaded beer garden before checking to see what’s taking place at the Slate and Deck event space.
One of Chow Kit’s most famous architectural landmarks is Tatt Khalsa Diwan, an attractive temple that serves the area’s large Sikh community. Originally constructed in 1922 under British rule, the current building dates back to the 1990s and is one of the largest Sikh temples in Southeast Asia. Coincide your visit with a Saturday when a complimentary vegetarian lunch is served to visitors of all faiths.
Getting around Chow Kit
Chow Kit is around 10 minutes’ drive from the Kuala Lumpur Central railway station and just under an hour from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The Kuala Lumpur monorail connects to Chow Kit station while light rail services stop at PWTC station. Buses also travel throughout Chow Kit and connect most of its attractions.