Chinatown’s high-traffic streets, quiet back lanes and sheltered five-foot walkways are best explored on foot. Take in the idyllic morning vibe and colourful murals along Lorong Panggung and have breakfast at one of its hole-in-the-wall eateries. Drop by Buddhist, Hindu and Sikh temples for a glimpse of Kuala Lumpur’s diverse religious fabric. Check out the bric-a-brac and street food along Petaling Street Market and then some more along Madras Lane and Jalan Hang Lekir. If it gets too hot in the afternoon, slip into one of the air-conditioned cafés around, such as Jao Tim and Merchant’s Lane. After dark, pop into bars like PS150, Botak Liquor and Shuang Xi, which have been turning this cultural enclave into a hotspot for the cool kids.
