Malaysiais an Islamic country and you can continue your prayer and religious habits when you visit even if you are on holiday. In fact the unique mosques ofKuala Lumpurhave made them tourist attractions in their own right. Here’s a look at three to include on your itinerary.
Masjid Jamek, Masjid Jamek LRT station
The Masjid Jamek is one of the most stunning of KL’s mosques with Moorish architecture similar to designs you would see inNorth India. There are onion shaped domes, spires and multiple minarets. There are also palm trees on site and it is surprisingly peaceful despite its central city location.
Masjid Jamek was the first mosque built in Kuala Lumpurand is historically important due to its location at the confluence of the two rivers after which the capital is named. It first opened in 1909.
Mosque Jamek, Kuala Lumpur.
Locals call it the “Friday Mosque” because it’s very busy for Friday prayers. If you haven’t come for prayers you can visit Mon-Thurs, Sat and Sun 0830-1230 and 1430-1600, Fri 0830-1100 and 1430-1600. Admission is free.
National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara), near Central Market
This mosque is also centrally located near Central Market and across from the old railway station. It can fit in 15,000 people and lies amongst 13 acres of gardens with reflecting pools and gardens. It also features a 73 metre high minaret and a star shaped dome with 18 points including the five central Pillars of Islam and the 13 states ofMalaysia.
The mosque only dates back to 1965 so it has a more modern style with marble, concrete, straight angled pillars. It was also built on the site of a church.
National Mosque of Malaysia.
Tourists can visit the mosque for free during non-prayer times. Most readers would know the need to dress correctly, however if you don’t do note you will be asked to don a bright purple robe here. It is open daily from 0900-1800. Admission is free.
Masjid As Syakirin (As Syakirin Mosque), KLCC Park
This mosque is a great one to visit if you’re doing any shopping near the Suria KLCC shopping centre or thePetronasTwinTowers. The mosque was built in 1998 and features architecture reminiscent ofEast Asiawith Uzbek carvings and calligraphy.
Its location near the Petronas Towers means it gets a lot of visitors and has earned it the nickname “Jewel in the Park”. It can fit in 12,000 people.
