Pavilion KL: The Defining Authority in Fashion & Leisure | Malaysia Purple Travel Guide

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Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is more than just a shopping center; it is the crown jewel of the Bukit Bintang district and a premier lifestyle destination. Since its opening in 2007, it has served as the focal point for luxury retail and major public celebrations in the city. The massive complex is easily identified by its grand Roman-style pillars and the iconic fountain at its main entrance, serving as a gateway to over 700 stores spread across eight levels.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

Why You Should Visit

You should visit Pavilion KL to experience the height of Malaysian retail culture. It offers a perfect escape from the heat and humidity of the city within a world-class, air-conditioned environment. Whether you are looking for high-end designer brands, unique Japanese imports, or a massive variety of local and international food, this mall provides a comprehensive look at the modern, affluent side of Kuala Lumpur. It is also the best place to witness spectacular seasonal decorations, especially during Lunar New Year or Christmas.

What is Special About It?

• The Pavilion Crystal Fountain: Located at the main entrance, this is the tallest Liuli Crystal Fountain in Malaysia. It is a national landmark where the three bowls represent the multi-racial culture of the country living in harmony. At night, it is illuminated with colorful lights, making it a favorite photo spot.
• Tokyo Street: Located on Level 6, this themed precinct is a tribute to Japanese culture. It features traditional Japanese architecture, sushi bars, and specialty stores selling authentic Japanese snacks and crafts. It feels like stepping into a different country within the mall.




• Dining Lofts and Food Republic: The mall houses an enormous selection of food. The ‘Food Republic’ on the lower level offers high-quality hawker-style food in a modern setting, while the upper levels feature ‘Dining Loft’, a collection of semi-fine dining restaurants.
• The Connection: This is an outdoor-indoor transitional walkway lined with trendy cafes, bistros, and a cinema. It is a great place to sit and watch the crowds move between the mall and the surrounding Bukit Bintang streets.

History and Facts

• The School Site: Long before the mall was built, the land was the site of the Bukit Bintang Girls' School, one of the oldest schools in the city. The school was relocated to make way for this commercial development.
• Architecture: The design of the mall features a ‘street-front’ concept, which was pioneering in Malaysia. This allows many of the luxury flagship stores to have their own grand entrances facing the busy street, similar to those in London or New York.
• The Liuli Connection: The crystal bowls in the fountain were crafted by a famous studio in Taiwan. The water that overflows the bowls represents a continuous flow of wealth and prosperity.

Self-Guided Information

Traveler Tip

If you are visiting from abroad, bring your passport to the Level 2 Concierge Desk to apply for a Tourist Reward Card. Many of the stores and restaurants inside Pavilion offer a 5% to 10% discount for tourists, and some even offer gift redemptions if you spend a certain amount. Also, do not forget to check out the ‘Gourmet Leaf’ basement level for high-quality Malaysian food souvenirs to take home.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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