Kuala Lumpur Independence Square: A Complete Guide!

Every country has a historical landmark that is a must-see destination, such as Tiananmen Square in China and Times Square in the United States. In Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur Independence Square (Dataran Merdeka) is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks. 📒 Travel notes: In June 2024, my friend and I traveled from Singapore to Malacca and Kuala Lumpur by bus, and then returned to Hangzhou from Putrajaya. On a hot afternoon, we took a taxi with a strange smell and arrived at Central Market after a bumpy ride in bad traffic. I felt like throwing up as soon as I got out of the car, and the crowded people and unpleasant smell there made me feel even worse. The online photos were so misleading. (I give it 1 star. Don't go! It's no different from a wholesale market.) So my friend and I left quickly and went to Independence Square, where we finally breathed fresh air. However, the weather was hot, and we were very tired, so we just sat on the bench until it was too hot to sit. Then we stood under the flagpole and chatted with an American guy next to us. 🌍 Guide: On August 31, 1957, Malaysia officially broke away from British colonial rule and held a grand independence ceremony here. Today, the Malaysian national flagpole stands in the center of the square as a symbol of independence and freedom. 📍Location: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 🎫Tickets: Free ⏰Opening hours: Open all day, but it is recommended to avoid noon and visit in the morning or evening. ⌛️Duration: 1–3 hours 📷Photo spots 📍Flagpole This is the core symbol of Kuala Lumpur Independence Square. The flagpole is 95 meters high, making it the third tallest flagpole in the world. 📍Sultan Abdul Samad Building This building was built in the late 19th century in the Moorish architectural style. It was once the administrative center of the British colonial government and is now the location of the Malaysian High Court. 📝Tips 1⃣️If you plan to visit the surrounding museums and parks, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and pay attention to sun protection! 2⃣️The weather is hot, so try to avoid going out during the high-temperature period from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. 3⃣️You can wear black, white, or solid-colored clothes for better photos. 🏠Nearby attractions 📍National Museum, City Gallery: Both were closed when my friend and I traveled there. 📍Jalan Alor Night Market: One of the most famous food streets in Kuala Lumpur (We went straight back to Pavilion to eat. Long live air conditioning!) 📍Central Market: Not recommended. The environment is crowded, and the smell is mixed.