Attractions in Malaysia

Location

The National Mosque of Malaysia is located at Kuala Lumpur. The mosque has a large capacity of 15,000 people and is surrounded by lush greenery which expands to a 13-acre land. The original structure of the mosque was the product of a team of three people from the Public Works Department. The mosque was actually built on the site of a church in 1965. The mosque has been standing firm on its grounds since then and is now deemed as an important symbol of the Islamic country of Malaysia.

Overview

The best features of the mosque are the 73 meters high minarets and its 16 pointed star concrete which is its main roof. There are many meanings to the design of the mosque. The main roof's design was inspired from the idea of an open umbrella while the minarets were like a folded umbrella. The concrete main roof utilizes the concept of folding plates in order to obtain larger space at the main gathering hall.

Around the compound are many reflecting pools and also fountains. The National Mosque is situated just a kilometer away from the popular Lake Gardens Kuala Lumpur. The Lake Gardens itself is made up of five different gardens and parks which attract thousands of visitors annually. Among the parks at the Lake Gardens are the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park and the Deer Park Kuala Lumpur. The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is a must to visit as it is the world's largest free flight aviary. With over 3000 birds from more than 200 species, this is simply a place that you must visit. There are many shows at the bird park. Bird feeding and photo-taking as allowed in the bird park. Feeding and photo-shooting is also allowed at the deer park.

Other places where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take some fantastic photos are at the Hibiscus Garden, the Orchid Garden and the Butterfly Garden. With so many pretty butterflies and colorful flowers around, be sure to bring some extra batteries for your camera. It would be a shame if you run out of battery during photo-taking sessions. Visiting the mosque and the Lake Gardens can be tiring. Maybe you can put up for the night at the hotels in Kuala Lumpur. There are various hotels to choose from depending on your budget.

Transport

The easiest way to get to the National Mosque is via taxi. Per trip via taxi should set you back about RM20 from anywhere within the city center. But if you want to opt for a cheaper means of transportation, you can take the RapidKL bus (B101 and B112) and get off at the Dayabumi Complex. From the complex, you can walk to the National Mosque. If you plan to take the KTM Kommuter, just remember to stop at the Old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. You will need to walk towards the National Mosque.