Petaling Street (Chinatown)

Overview

Petaling Street is the bustling heart of KL's Chinatown, a covered market street flanked by pre-war shophouses, Chinese medicine shops, and hawker stalls. The green-roofed arcade protects vendors and shoppers from afternoon downpours.

Highlights

• Hawker food: Legendary stalls serve Hokkien mee, wonton noodles, roast duck, and fresh cendol from dawn to midnight.
• Heritage shophouses: 1920s–1940s row houses with ornate tile work and timber shutters, gradually being restored.
• Night market atmosphere: After dusk the street transforms into a sensory overload of neon, sizzling woks, and bargain hunters.

History

Petaling Street was the commercial centre of KL's Chinese immigrant community from the 1880s tin-mining era. Named after tin-mine owner Yap Ah Loy's paddy fields (petaling means 'panning'), it has been a market street for over 140 years.

Visitor Tips

• Eat adventurously: Skip restaurants and eat from street stalls for the best experience.
• Pickpockets: Be aware in crowded sections, especially at night.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.