Kuala Lumpur For Digital Nomads: Ultimate Nomad Guide

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is nothing short of a metropolitan dream. With its marvelous skyscrapers and modern amenities, this bustling city attracts digital nomads from all over the globe. In addition to that, the vibrant culture and rich history also play a significant role in its popularity.

If you are just as intrigued as us then get ready to explore this hidden gem. Let’s discuss what it’s like to live in Kuala Lumpur and the expected digital nomad lifestyle there.

Where is Kuala Lumpur located?

Kuala Lumpur, the national capital of Malaysia, is located in the center of Selangor. This city lies in the west-central peninsular of the country, about 25 miles west of the Strait of Malacca.

Fact: Did you know that the “Petronas Twin Towers” in Malaysia are two of the tallest buildings in the world?

Why Choose Kuala Lumpur as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons

Since every city has its fair share of flaws, you can expect there to be some deal-breaking cons. If you don’t know why you should choose Kuala Lumpur as your next digital nomad destination, then take a look below and see whether this place is a good fit for you.

Pros	Cons
Fewer language barriers	Relatively conservative
Wide variety of food	Muted nightlife
Digital nomad community	Dangerous roads
Very safe	Weak freedom of speech
Accessible healthcare
Affordable cost of living
Fast internet
Spacious
Good air quality

Additionally, please note that Kuala Lumpur is not exactly inviting to the lgbtq+ community. You’ll see a lot of hostility due to locals’ religious or societal beliefs.

Apart from that, this well-developed metropolitan city is a good place that offers the ultimate “big city” experience. Not only is it family-friendly but affordable as well. You can expect to find democracy and a decent political situation here.

How to Get to Kuala Lumpur?

The best way of getting to Kuala Lumpur from abroad is via air travel. You can directly land at the famous Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and make your way from there. This airport caters to international flights and is known to be the busiest in all of South East Asia. Once you have landed, here’s how you can get to Kuala Lumpur city center/desired destination.

KLIA Express

This is undoubtedly one of the most efficient ways of getting to the city center. The express takes around 28 minutes and it costs 3 – 8$. You can buy your ticket in advance or in person.

By taxi

While we don’t recommend grabbing local taxis from the airport. You can simply download taxi apps such as Grab or InDrive and get a ride to your destination.

By bus

For those of you who are looking for cheap transportation, buses are a great option. You can easily get on a bus at the airport and get to your desired location. However, please note that this will take at least 1 hour.

Some other options include Skybus, Aerobus, and Airpor Coach.

Transportation and How to Get Around Kuala Lumpur?

Here’s how you can get around in the city.

Train networks

Modern underground trains are one of the most famous and common ways of transport in Kuala Lumpur. The LRT and MRT trains are very convenient, accessible, and affordable. Since they have an extensive network, they can take you almost anywhere in the city.

Bus

Bus travel is also a viable option in Kuala Lumpur. The city has an excellent public transport system with well-developed, well-maintained, and accessible routes. The buses specifically, are affordable and convenient.

Monorail

Kuala Lumpur’s monorail is an intra-city public transportation system that consists of a well-developed network. These elevated trains provide a similar experience to that of a rollercoaster for the first few times but it’s a great way of getting around.

Taxi apps

Taxis are also a convenient and good way of getting around the city. However, it is not recommended to hail taxis from the street. Since local taxi drivers have a bad reputation and low credibility in Kuala Lumpur, stay safe and opt for reputable companies instead. Popular services such as Grab and InDrive operate in the city but the latter is way more accessible. You can easily download InDrive and get a ride whenever you want, wherever you want.

3 Best Accommodation Options in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia and it has plenty of good neighborhoods. If you can’t decide where to seek accommodation, take a look below.

Bangsar

For those of you who are looking for cheap accommodation, Bangsar is a great option. This relatively new neighborhood is developing by the day and it promises a good living experience. The good news is that it’s located only a short train ride away from the main city center. You can stay in the loop and enjoy cheap accommodation simultaneously. Additionally, there are a bunch of coworking spaces and restaurants located in Bangsar as well.

Mont Kiara

Mont Kiara is undoubtedly one of the best neighborhoods for digital nomads in Kuala Lumpur. This area is mostly occupied by expats which means you’ll be able to settle right in and feel at home. Mont Kiara also provides a strong sense of community and makes living in a foreign country easy. However, accommodation is likely to cost more in Mont Kiara than in other neighborhoods.

Desa park city

Desa parkcity is another great option for digital nomads. If you are traveling with your family then consider living in a family-friendly area such as this one. This master-planned community is a family-oriented neighborhood that will make your stay in Kuala Lumpur even more unforgettable.

Internet Connectivity in Kuala Lumpur

Remote workers would be happy to learn that Kuala Lumpur has extraordinary internet connectivity. The city has the mean download and upload speeds of 82.39 Mbps! You can stay up to date with your employer, stay in contact with your team, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

If you are someone who prefers high consistency then consider buying an Esim upon your arrival. There are plenty of decent providers in the country but Celcom and Hotlink are arguably the best. You can get it at the airport or convenience stores.

Make sure to compare data packages before purchasing the SIM card.

E sim

Another good option is opting for an Esim! If you want fast and reliable internet at all times then Esims are your best bet. Here are some packages.

Holafly

Data validity	Days	Price
Unlimited data	7 days	29$ (27.09€)
Unlimited data	10 days	37$ (34.57€)
Unlimited data	15 days	51$ (47.65€)
Unlimited data	20 days	62$ (57.92€)
Unlimited data	30 days	75$ (70.07€)

Airalo

Data validity	Days	Price
1 GB	7 days	4.50$ (4.14€)
2 GB	15 days	8$ (7.47€)
3 GB	30 days	10.50$ (9.81€)
5 GB	30 days	15$ (14.01€)
10 GB	30 days	25$ (23.36€)

4 Best Places to Work from in Kuala Lumpur

One of the best things about Kuala Lumpur is that it has a bunch of coworking spaces, coffee shops, and other areas where remote workers can work.

H space

H Space is a great coworking space in Kuala Lumpur that offers everything from modern equipment and free snacks to lockers and high-speed internet. To make things even better, they allow 24/7 access and encourage productivity. You can also go to their regular events and network with like-minded individuals. H space is also one of the most affordable options available.

Common ground

Another great option is the common ground coworking space. They have various locations all over the city, each well-developed and maintained. They offer fast internet, free coffee, and facilities such as printers and scanners. You can also seek help from their professional community manager.

WORKQ

If you are not a fan of office-like coworking spaces then consider going to WORKQ. They provide various facilities including but not limited to meeting rooms and host desks. However, WORKQ is so much more than that. The best part about this space is its unique concept. There are gaming rooms, beds, and showers available to aid you during a long workday. You can settle in and work for hours!

Cafes

For those of you who prefer working from coffee shops rather than coworking spaces, Kuala Lumpur has plenty of options in store for you!

VCR Café (Bukit Bintang)
PULP by Papa Palheta (Bangsar)
Merchant’s Lane (Chinatown)
Pisco Bar (Bukit Bintang).

These are some of the best cafes in the city that offer fast wifi and a great working environment. You can enjoy delicious snacks from their respective menus while working and thrive in a pleasant environment.

Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur promises a high quality of life and a true “big city” life experience but it is way cheaper than cities like New York. You can access daily facilities at cheap rates. Here is a rough breakdown of prices there.

Nomad’s cost of living	$1247/month (€1165)
Cost of living for a family	$2504/month (€2340)
hotel	$489/month (€457)
Studio in the city center (1br rent)	$492/month (€460)
Airbnb	$798/month (€746)
Dinner	$3.39 (€3.17)
Beer	$3.93 (€3.67)
Taxi	$3.82/trip (€3.57)
Coca-cola	$0.42 (€0.39)
Coffee	$2.55 (€2.38)
Coworking desk	$157/month (€147)

As you can see, Kuala Lumpur has a low cost of living compared to other digital nomad hotspots. However, please note that these estimates may change over time due to economic situations and currency fluctuations. Additionally, the cost of living is mostly defined by a person’s lifestyle and spending patterns.

Culture, Nature, and Food in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur’s extraordinary and rich culture is a mix of various nationalities and religions including but not limited to Muslim, Buddhist, and Hinduism. This religious mix adds diversity to the region and makes the city even more inviting. The locals celebrate all national, religious, and cultural holidays with equal enthusiasm. From Eid and Ramadan to Holi and the Chinese New Year, each festival brings vibrancy to the city!

Even though Kuala Lumpur is a metropolitan city that is the epitome of urbanism, there is still a lot of natural beauty. The city is home to a high-scale recreational park, a botanical garden, and even a butterfly park. You can engage in various outdoor activities as well.

Much like its culture, the food here is also a mix of different regions. You’ll find a lot of diversity and richness in the local food. There are tons of local and international food chains to keep you well-fed and happy!

Best Time to Visit Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur has warm weather all year long and it’s safe to say that the temperatures are pretty consistent. You can come at any time and expect sunny days and breezy evenings. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, this city is cooler than its neighboring cities and it experiences a tropical climate.

Additionally, the rainy season intensifies during April-May and September-November. Seeing all of this, we would say that the best time to visit is from June to August. Since these are the drier months, it’s the most suitable time for exploring the city.

However, if you are not concerned about the weather then consider visiting between January and February. Kuala Lumpur truly comes alive during these months and the locals celebrate a plethora of festivals.

12 Best Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

When in Kuala Lumpur, make sure to do these 12 best things!

1. Visit the bukit bintang

Located in the city center, this bustling area features a range of shopping malls and restaurants. Bukit Bintang is the perfect place for a shopping spree as you’ll find shopping centres of each shape and size! You can also go here to have a nice brunch in one of the many international food chains.

2. Visit the Jalan Alor

While we are talking about Bukit Bintang, make sure to visit this famous night market when you visit the city center. This lively food street stretches over 500 meters and hosts various stalls. Despite having developed as a modern city, this street still connects Kuala Lumpur to old-world charm.

3. Visit Changkat

Another must-visit place near Bukit Bintang is the Changkat area. Even though Kuala Lumpur has a muted nightlife, that doesn’t mean there aren’t options for you to explore on a Saturday night. Changkat is one of the most well-known nightlife hubs that houses various bars and clubs. You can go here and have an unforgettable time!

4. Visit the Petronas towers

Your time in Kuala Lumpur would be incomplete without a visit to the Petronas Tower. These twin towers are two of the world-largest buildings, recognized as a famous tourist attraction. These iconic towers are a sight to behold and they certainly define Kuala Lumpur’s skyline.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance considering they sell out awfully fast.

5. Visit china town

Another must-visit place is the famous Chinatown! This area is home to a plethora of local markets, street food stalls, street markets, hostels, and hotels. If you want to be surrounded by a bustling atmosphere and lively energy then make sure to visit Chinatown. It is also a great place for buying souvenirs among other necessities.

6. Visit the Kuala Lumpur forest eco-park

Previously known as the BUKIT NANAS, this forest eco park replicates a remote jungle. Whether you are a nature lover or not, this park is guaranteed to dazzle you. You can go here any day between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm to enjoy the exotic plants and have a refreshing experience.

7. Visit the KL tower

The iconic Kuala Lumpur Tower is one of the most distinguished skyscrapers and popular destinations in the city. When in Kuala Lumpur, make sure to visit this tower and admire its intricate architecture. You can go to the open-air terrace and see stunning city views.

8. Visit the National Museum

If you want to immerse yourself in the country’s history then pay a visit to the national museum in Kuala Lumpur. This museum features various artifacts and pieces that perfectly depict Malaysian culture and heritage. You can explore the historical exhibits and learn how each landmark came to be so significant.

9. Visit the Batu caves

Batu Caves are a tourist attraction and one of the most popular places in Kuala Lumpur. Not only is it a picturesque destination but it’s also a sight to behold. Everything from the colorful staircase to the golden statue looks like something that would be part of a storybook. You can visit the main caves for free and smaller ones for only a small sum.

10. Visit the Chow Kit market

Chow Kit is the busiest and largest market in Kuala Lumpur that has everything that you can possibly think of. From clothing and produce to food and artifacts, Chow Kit is the ultimate shopping market. However, be wary of the confusing corridors and huge crowds!

11. Visit the Thean Hou temple

The Thean Hou temple is a beautiful and valuable religious site located in Kuala Lumpur. You can visit it to admire the marvelous architecture and learn about its religious significance. One of the best things is that this temple is nearly not as crowded as other tourist sites.

12. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

If you want to spend a day surrounded by nature then consider visiting the KL bird park. You can bird-watch here for hours and appreciate the exotic wildlife. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park allows you an opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Is Kuala Lumpur safe?

Yes! Kuala Lumpur is one of the safest cities in the entire world. In fact, it ranked 19th on the World Peace Index in 2023. Even though petty crimes such as pocket-picking and tourist scams are not entirely out of the question, you are unlikely to encounter any violent crime.

You can travel around the city with ease of mind, even as a solo or woman traveler. However, you should remain precatious regardless of the low crime rate. As a visitor in a foreign country, you should stay vigilant and follow general safety tips.

Look out for tourist scams
Trust reputable companies
Stay away from isolated areas
Stay on your guard
Stay away from shady neighborhoods
Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
Don’t carry flashy items

Visa Requirements in Kuala Lumpur

The Malaysian government aims to improve its tourism industry. Hence, they offer several visa benefits and an easy visa policy. Most countries are allowed to enter and stay in Malaysia visa-free for up to 90 days. Tourists can explore the city during this period and avoid any formalities. However, they may be required to present a return ticket by the authorities.

Other countries’ citizens and long-term settlers can look at various visa options and choose one that seems suitable. Luckily for remote workers, the government also introduced the Malaysia digital nomad visa (de rantau nomad pass) in 2022. This visa allows digital nomads to stay in Malaysia for an initial 12 months. After that, they can apply for an extension and/or renewal.

Other visa alternatives include a student visa, social visa, visa on arrival, and visa for employment or long stay.

Please consult with an embassy or consulate to learn about the application process and eligibility requirements of each.

Conclusion

As we wrap up, it’s safe to say that Kuala Lumpur is one of the best digital nomad destinations in all of Southeast Asia. Even though Kuala Lumpur is not as well-known as other major cities in Bali and Thailand, it has the potential to develop further over the years.

Malaysia is a great place for digital nomads. Its capital city certainly promises a contemporary, convenient, and unique experience. In short, this urban city is the cultural, commercial, and transportation center of the country.

We hope this ultimate guide helped you understand what it’s like to live in Kuala Lumpur and addressed all your concerns. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.