Kuala Lumpur is the bustling capital city of Malaysia and its showpiece of prosperity and grandeur. Kuala Lumpur means 'muddy estuary', a name coined by the original tin prospectors who arrived at the confluence of the Kelang and Gombak rivers in 1860. Kuala Lumpur has progressed considerably since then as can be witnessed in the reflections of the glittering skyscrapers elegantly rising between the well-preserved colonial buildings of yesteryear.

This blend of old and new worlds, interspersed with the diverse influences of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultural lifestyles, makes for a fascinating exploration of the city's streets. An orientation of Kuala Lumpur is best begun from Merdeka Square, the heart of the city. To the southeast of the square is the modern business centre and the bustling streets of Chinatown. The picturesque National Mosque (Masjid Negara) and impressive Railway Station can be located to the south and beyond them to the west is the city's green belt. The tranquil and lush Lake Gardens provides some respite from the frenetic activity of the city. The National Museum (Muzim Negara), the National Monument and the Malaysian Parliament are also found on this stretch.

Merdeka Square

Address: Kuala Lumpur

The 328ft (100m) flagpole rising from Merdeka Square is the tallest in the world, and marks the place where Malaysia achieved independence in 1957. The city's colonial past is still very much alive in the architecture of the surrounding buildings and the field still hosts the occasional cricket matches. The Tudor-style Royal Selangor Club rests on one corner of the square, looking onto a large video screen displaying religious messages and advertisements. The Club served as a social centre for Kuala Lumpur's British residents; its doors are now open to anyone who can afford the membership fees. In keeping with die-hard customs women are still not allowed entry to the bar, except by invitation.

Chinatown

Address: Kuala Lumpur

The crowded and colourful Chinatown area is a jumble of shops, food, smells and people. The central section of Petaling Street is closed at night to traffic and the street is transformed into an exciting, brightly lit experience. Vendors spread their wares onto the pavement and one can stroll along endlessly taking it all in. Merchandise ranges from jewellery to toys and t-shirts and bargaining for the best prices is accepted practice and part of the fun.

Petronas Towers

Address: City centre. Ticket Booth: Tower 2, Concourse Level Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Admission to the Skybridge is free, but tickets are limited per day The Skybridge is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 7pm, but tickets go on sale at 8.30am

Telephone: (0)3 2331 1769 (Skybridge)

The Petronas Towers are designed to impress and encapsulate Malaysia's emergence as South East Asia's commercial and cultural centre. Celebrated as one of the tallest towers in the world, the buildings stand at a height of 1,483ft (452m) and are joined by a skybridge extending 192ft (58m) across. Traditional geometric principles of Islamic architecture have been followed using modern technology, with an inspiring result. The Petronas towers are used as office complexes that form part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Development Park.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

Address: Jalan Hishamuddin Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: (0)3 227 6063

British architect, AB Hubbock was inspired by North Indian Islamic design when he conceived this magnificent railway station. Spires, minarets, towers and arches explode against the backdrop of skyscrapers emphasising the glory of Moorish elegance. It serves not only as an aesthetic vision but is in use as an important commuter station.

Friday Mosque (Masjid Jamek)

Address: Jalan Tun Perak Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Free Saturday to Thursday 8.30am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 4pm. Friday 8.30am to 11am and 2.30pm to 4pm

Telephone: (0)3 274 6063

Masjid Jamek is located where the Gombak River flows into the Klang River and with its palm tress and curved steps leading to the water's edge, it is a haven of peace and tranquillity set amongst the buzz and rush of modern KL. The Mosque is built on a symbolic site dating back to the origins of Kuala Lumpur, being the spot where the founders of the city first set foot. The design was inspired by Mogul mosques in northern India. Cupolas and minarets top the brick walls and arched colonnades. As with all mosques, a visit calls for conservative dress and the removal of shoes.

Lake Gardens

Address: Jalan Perdana Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Butterfly House: RM5; Bird Park: RM1; Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens: RM1, free on weekdays Butterfly House: daily 9am to 6pm; Bird Park: daily 9am to 6.30pm; Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens: daily 9am to 6pm

Telephone: (0)3 2691 6011

These 60-hectare (148-acre) gardens established in 1888 form the green belt of Kuala Lumpur. The lush vegetation surrounds a vast lake. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise to enjoy views of the gardens from the water (RM4 per hour: Saturdays, 2pm to 5.30pm and Sundays 8am to 5.30pm). The gardens incorporate the National Monument, Butterfly House, Bird Park, Orchid and Hibiscus gardens, with Malaysia's Parliament House situated at the northern end.

National Mosque (Masjid Negara)

Address: Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin Kuala Lumpur

Admission: Free Daily 9am to 6pm, except Friday during prayers 2.45pm to 6pm

Telephone: (0)3 2693 7784

A modern contrast to the Friday Mosque, the National Mosque was completed in 1965 and remains the largest mosque in South East Asia - the vast main prayer hall can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Many of the city's Malay office workers congregate here for the Friday afternoon prayers. The impressive 18-point star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and five central Pillars of Islam. Entry is only permitted once prayers have been concluded. Robes can be borrowed from the desk at the mosque entrance.

National Museum (Muzium Negara)

Address: Jalan Damansara Kuala Lumpur

Admission: RM2; free for children under 12 and children wearing school uniform Daily 9am to 6pm

Telephone: (0)3 2282 6255

Malaysia's historical artefacts and cultural icons are housed in an appropriately designed building, reflecting the Minangkabau architectural style of the region. Ethnographic and archaeological exhibits include life-size dioramas depicting various aspects of traditional Malaysian life. Shadow play (Wayang kilt) displays reflect the ancient artistry of the nation, while exhibits of traditional weapons such as daggers (kris) and machetes (parangs) reveal the Malaysian pride in functional aesthetic forms.

Batu Caves

Address: Kuala Lumpur

Admission: A small entrance fee is charged

Stalagmites and stalactites festoon the interior of these impressive limestone caves together with the Hindu shrines that honour their deities. The caves were discovered by the American explorer William Hornaby in 1881 but have since become associated with the celebration of Thaipusam, a three-day religious festival during January/February. Thousands of devotees flock to the caves during the festival to pay penance and undergo rites of self-flagellation that are fascinating to observe. The largest of the caves, Temple Cave is reached by climbing 272 steps to its entrance from which a path leads to Museum Cave - housing a dazzling display of ornamental religious art. There is a clear view from the top to the Subramaniam Swamy Temple, set within a large cave that extends for 262ft (80m).

National Park (Taman Negara)

Address: Kuala Lumpur

Admission: RM1 (park permit), RM5 (camera licence)

Telephone: (0)3 905 2872

Taman Negara contains some of the oldest rainforest in the world and spans thousands of square miles of protected land. Its richly diverse fauna and flora have evolved over a staggering 130 million years. The best way to explore the diversity of plant and animal life is by 'trekking' along the jungle trails. Although seldom seen, a small population of nomadic Orang Asli people still live in the rainforest, their makeshift shelters appearing in places amongst the jungle growth. Besides trekking, the park's other attractions are fishing, river rafting or bird watching and climbers can explore the Peninsula's highest mountain, Gunung Tahan at 7,175ft (2,187m). The best time to visit the park is between March and September.

Melaka (Historic City)

Address: Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: (0)6 281 4803 or (0)6 293 3913 (tourist information)

The fascinating seaside city of Melaka (Malacca) preserves the historic convergence of Chinese and European cultures. Its strategic position on the Straits of Melaka brought a tide of trade with China, India, Siam and Indonesia. Colonial powers wrestled for control, and much of the Portuguese influence from the 1500s is cemented in its architecture. The most notable cultural presence today is predominantly Chinese. Chinese merchants continue to ply their trades in the tradition of their forefathers. Open-air markets burst with colourful fruit, vegetable and fish produce. The oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, Cheng Hoon Teng together with the vast Chinese cemetery, support a thriving industry entirely dedicated to the deceased. The merging of Chinese and Malay have produced a unique ethnic group found in Melaka, the Baba-Nyonya. The unique lifestyle of this micro-culture can be explored in a dedicated Baba-Nyonya museum.

Colours of Malaysia

Where: Merdeka Square and other venues around the city centre,Kuala Lumpur

When: March 2010 TBA

Malaysia is extremely proud of its cultural diversity, which is showcased in Kuala Lumpur each year with one of the world's most colourful extravaganzas, Citrawarna, or 'The Colours of Malaysia'. This month-long cultural celebration is packed with a kaleidoscope of events, the highlight being a grand parade involving thousands of people escorting a float bearing the Royal family. The event also marks the King's birthday. The spectacular procession is a moving mosaic of rhythm and dance. Throughout the month there are numerous offerings including art and craft exhibits, sumptuous cuisine at food festivals, resplendently costumed music and dance performances and sports meetings.

Kuala Lumpur International Tower Jump

Where: Menara Kuala Lumpur,Kuala Lumpur

When: August 2010, TBA

The Menara Kuala Lumpur (better known as the KL Tower) is the fourth tallest telecommunications tower in the world, standing at 1,381 feet (421m). The tower has become a magnet for extreme sports enthusiasts, particularly 'BASE' (building, antenna, span and earth) jumpers. Every year 50 or so daredevils make repeated jumps from the tower and make three-second free falls before opening their chutes, leaving spectators breathless. Allied events on the day include a light aircraft fly past, helicopter roping, radio controlled aircraft displays and gliding exhibitions.

Thaipusam

Where: Batu Caves, about seven miles north of Kuala Lumpur,Kuala Lumpur

When: 30 January 2010

Malaysia celebrates numerous religious festivals, but the best known and most popular with tourists is the Hindu test of faith and endurance, Thaipusam, held at Batu Caves during the tenth month of the Hindu calendar. This festival, involving a procession of devotees carrying yokes (kavadi), bearing offerings, up hundreds of steps, is not for the squeamish. The bearers, in a trance-like state, are pierced with skewers through tongues and cheeks, with hooks and spears pierced through other body parts. The procession follows a ceremonial decorated chariot drawn by bullocks.

Malaysian F1 Grand Prix

Where: Sepang Circuit,Kuala Lumpur

When: April 2010 TBA

One of the first events in the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix motor racing season is the Malaysian Grand Prix at the impressive Sepang track. The first World Championship Grand Prix held at this new ultra-modern circuit, known for its sweeping corners and wide straights, was in 1999, and since then the event has become known as one of the most thrilling on the F1 Calendar.