A pedestrian bridge linking to the Putra World Trade Centre.
Tired of circling Kuala Lumpur’s city centre in endless loops during car-free mornings?
Don’t worry, there are plenty of exciting routes to explore beyond the usual Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman and Jalan Ampang circuit. This alternative path offers a more adventurous and gastronomical journey, so grab your bike and let’s go!
Start your adventure on Jalan Raja Abdullah, heading towards the iconic Pintu Gerbang Kampung Baru (Kg Baru Arch) on Jalan Raja Muda Musa. This sturdy concrete arch marks the entrance to Kampung Baru, one of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest Malay settlements, and a street brimming with local food outlets.
Grab a bite at the Kak Som Pantai Timur restaurant.
Make a stop at Restoran Wanjo, a beloved spot since 1963, renowned for its delicious nasi lemak and traditional Malay dishes like sambal sotong (squid), ayam goreng (fried chicken), daging rendang (beef), and paru goreng (fried cow’s lung).
While its old-school charm remains, the eatery’s popularity and social media fame mean you can expect to pay around RM13 per plate.
For dessert, head to the nearby kuih stall, where you can watch an elderly man baking traditional cake using a brass cast and coconut husk. The grated coconut cake is a must-try, costing between RM2 and RM3.
A kuih maker preparing a sweet treat at a stall in Kampung Baru.
Craving a taste of the Peninsular East Coast? Kak Som Pantai Timur, on the right side of Jalan Raja Muda Musa, serves up reasonably priced dishes like Nasi Dagang, Kerabu, and Nasi Minyak. With ample seating and bike parking, it’s the perfect breakfast stop.
After satisfying your taste buds, ride towards Jalan Raja Uda, where old kampung houses stand in stark contrast to the modern city skyline. These charming homes make for excellent photo opportunities.
Loop around Jalan Datuk Abdul Malik and Jalan Hamzah before rejoining Jalan Raja Abdullah and returning to the City Hall building.
The River of Life walkway at Tiong Nam Park.
If time allows, explore Jalan Raja Laut and discover one of the city’s oldest Chinese enclaves – Jalan Tiong Nam.
Part of the city’s “River of Life” project, Tiong Nam Park offers a peaceful walking path and bike lane. Once a notorious neighbourhood, it’s now a safe area with budget hotels and a scenic path along the Gombak River, reminiscent of Singapore’s park connector lanes.
For a more challenging ride, take the road to Jalan Tun Ismail, passing the Putra World Trade Centre and leading to the affluent Bukit Tunku area. The climb towards the Jalan Tunku intersection rewards you with a mobile coffee shop, a popular cyclist hangout.
After a refreshing break, roll down towards Jalan Tun Ismail and head back to the city centre via Jalan Sultan Salahuddin. Enjoy the light traffic and lush green surroundings along Jalan Tun Ismail.
This area’s conservation efforts make it an ideal cycling spot, free from heavy traffic and air pollution. The cooler climate and hilly terrain are perfect for building stamina and endurance.
End your inner-city loop at Dataran Merdeka. From there, head to the nearest rail station for a ride home or continue exploring the vibrant city.
With these alternative routes, Kuala Lumpur transforms from a looped path to a dynamic adventure filled with food, culture, and scenic beauty.
Happy cycling!
A pedestrian bridge linking to the Putra World Trade Centre.
Grab a bite at the Kak Som Pantai Timur restaurant.
A kuih maker preparing a sweet treat at a stall in Kampung Baru.
The River of Life walkway at Tiong Nam Park.
Cyclists waiting to be flagged off on the Car Free Sunday in Kuala Lumpur’s city centre.
A popular food outlet in Kampung Baru with the city skyline in the background.
A hearty meal to boost the day.
The downhill route leading to Bank Negara.
