Under the Malay name Masjid Negara is the national mosque, which can accommodate up to 15,000 people. It is located halfway between the old railway station and the Museum of Islamic Art.

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Modern architecture: symbols of umbrellas

Built in 1965, the mosque's unconventional modernist look is striking at first glance, markedly different from more traditional mosques such as the larger Federal Territory Mosque.

The dominant features of the National Mosque are the 74-metre high minaret and the 16-pointed star-shaped roof over the main prayer room.

While the roof symbolizes an unfolded umbrella, the minaret is shaped like a folded umbrella. This is to symbolise Kuala Lumpur's location in a tropical area where it rains very often.

The swimming pool is also a beautiful feature, which is where the minaret is beautifully mirrored.

The mosque also includes the Makam Pahlawan tomb, which houses the remains of several Malaysian leaders and politicians.

Tourist visit

The National Mosque is open to all tourists regardless of religion or gender.

There is a special entrance on the left side of the mosque for tourists and you can visit the interior at the following times:

• Daily except Fridays.
  • 9:30-12:30
  • 15:00-18:00
• Friday
  • 15:00-18:00

Admission is free.

Before entering, you need to register via QR-code by filling in your name and country of origin. If you do not have an internet connection, you can register at the counter.

Before entering the mosque, you must take off your shoes and leave them in the compartments outside the entrance or take them in your own backpack with you (shoe bags are not provided).

Only long trousers and covered shoulders are allowed inside the mosque.

Gowns for both men and women are available to borrow for free at the desk if you don't feel like moving around in long pants all day for one visit to the mosque.

How to get there

The mosque is located on the western edge of downtown Kuala Lumpur next to the old railway station.

The nearest metro station is Pasar Seni, but the walk is unmarked and takes you through the intricate bridges, passages and underpasses past the post office building and car park, see route map.

It is relatively easy to reach the mosque on foot from nearby Gardens, for example, and also from Merdeka Square after about a 10-minute walk along a very busy road.

Practical tips and our experience

• Robes covering the shoulders and knees are free to rent
• if you don't want to leave your shoes unattended, take your bag or rucksack
• there are no long queues and the tour is on your own without a guide
• the mosque tour takes 15-20 minutes
• combine your visit to the mosque ideally with nearby attractions such as the Gardens or the Museum of Islamic Art, which are easily accessible on foot

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