MalaysiaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around National Museum, Kuala Lumpur

1. How can I get to the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur from Bangkok?

There are several ways to get from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur, where the National Museum is located.

1. By air: The most convenient option is to take a flight from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). Many airlines operate flights between these cities, and the flight takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. From KUL, you can then take a taxi or public transport to the National Museum in KL.

2. By train: You can also take a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Butterworth Railway Station in Penang, Malaysia. From there, you can transfer to another train that will take you to KL Sentral station in Kuala Lumpur. KL Sentral is a major transportation hub, and you can easily find taxis or public transportation from there to the National Museum.

3. By bus: Another option is to take a bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal or Southern Bus Terminal to Kuala Lumpur’s TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan). The journey takes about 20-24 hours and you can then take a taxi or public transport from TBS to the National Museum.

4. By car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Expressway. It is recommended for experienced drivers as it is a long journey of about 1,500 km and crossing international borders.

2. How much does it cost to visit the National Museum?

The entrance fee for non-Malaysian adults is RM5 (~USD$1.21) per person, with an additional fee of RM3 (~USD$0.73) if you want access into special exhibitions at the museum.

2. Are there any taxis or car rental services available for transportation around the National Museum area?


Yes, there are several taxi companies and car rental services available for transportation around the National Museum area. Some options include Grab, MyCar, and Avis. Additionally, there are also public bus services and ride-sharing apps such as Uber available for transportation in this area. It is recommended to do some research and compare prices and availability before deciding on a specific means of transportation.

3. Is public transportation easily accessible from the museum, such as buses or trains?

4. Are there any special or themed exhibits currently on display at the museum?
5. Is photography allowed inside the museum?
6. How long does it typically take to go through the entire museum?
7. Are there any recommended nearby restaurants or cafes for eating before or after visiting the museum?
8. Is there a gift shop at the museum where souvenirs can be purchased?
9. Does the museum offer guided tours or audio guides? If so, what is the cost and how can they be reserved?
10. Are there any ticket discounts available, such as for students, seniors, or military personnel?

4. Can I walk to other nearby attractions in Kuala Lumpur from the National Museum?


Yes, the National Museum is within walking distance of several other popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur, including Lake Gardens, Perdana Botanical Garden, and Islamic Arts Museum. It is also a short drive or public transportation ride away from other major attractions such as KLCC (Petronas Twin Towers), Merdeka Square, and Chinatown.

5. What is the most convenient way to navigate to different galleries within the museum itself?


The most convenient way to navigate to different galleries within the museum would be to refer to the museum’s map or directory, which can typically be found at the entrance or information desk. Many museums also have signs and directional arrows throughout the building, making it easier for visitors to find their desired exhibits. Additionally, you can ask a museum staff member for assistance in locating specific galleries.

6. Are there any guided tours offered at the National Museum for exploring outside of the main building?


Yes, the National Museum offers various guided tours that explore different aspects of the museum and its collections. These include:

1. Museum Treasures Tour – a guided tour that takes visitors through the highlights of the museum’s collections, including artifacts from different eras of Singapore’s history.

2. Heritage Highlights Tour – a tour that focuses on the cultural diversity of Singapore and its history, highlighting artifacts related to Malay, Chinese, Indian and other cultures.

3. Botanical Garden Trail – a guided walk through the museum’s outdoor Garden Wing where visitors can learn about the different plants and their significance in traditional medicine.

4. Art Appreciation Tour – a tour that focuses on the art collection at the museum, featuring works by local and international artists.

5. Gallery Insights Tours – thematic tours that offer deeper insights into specific areas of the museum’s collections such as archaeology, natural history or ethnography.

Visitors can check for availability and book these guided tours on the museum’s website or at the Information & Ticketing Counter at the main building.

7. How long does it take to explore the entire museum and its surroundings?


The amount of time it takes to explore the entire museum and its surroundings depends on the individual’s pace and level of interest in the exhibits. On average, it can take anywhere from two to four hours to thoroughly explore the museum and its surrounding gardens and trails. However, some visitors may choose to spend a full day exploring all the exhibitions and taking advantage of other activities offered at the museum, such as guided tours or special events.

8. Are there any special transportation discounts or packages available for visiting multiple museums in Kuala Lumpur?


Yes, there are special transportation discounts and packages available for visiting multiple museums in Kuala Lumpur. One option is the KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus, which offers a discounted pass that includes access to over 20 attractions, including several museums. Additionally, some museums may offer discounted joint tickets for multiple museums or in partnership with other attractions in the city. Visitors can also consider purchasing a GoKL City Pass, which offers unlimited rides on the city’s public transportation systems as well as discounts at select tourist destinations, including museums.

9. What type of currency is accepted for payment of transportation services around the National Museum?


The currency accepted for payment of transportation services around the National Museum may vary, but generally it will be the local currency of the country where the museum is located. For example, if the National Museum is in Washington D.C., U.S. dollars would likely be accepted. If it is in London, British pounds would likely be accepted. It is always best to check with the specific museum or transportation provider beforehand to ensure you have the correct currency for payment.

10. Are there any bike rental options for exploring the area around the museum?


Yes, there are several bike rental options available for exploring the area around the museum. Some nearby options include Capital Bikeshare and Bike and Roll DC. These rentals can be accessed through mobile apps or at designated stations located throughout the city. Additionally, many local bike shops also offer hourly or daily rentals.

11. Is it safe to use ride-sharing apps such as Grab or Uber around the National Museum area?

Yes, it is generally safe to use ride-sharing apps like Grab or Uber around the National Museum area. These apps are widely used in Manila and provide a safe and convenient mode of transportation. However, as with any form of transportation, it is important to always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Make sure to only book rides through the official app and verify the driver’s information before getting into the vehicle.

12. Can I purchase tickets for transportation services at the National Museum ticket counter?


No, the National Museum ticket counter only sells tickets for admission to the museum. To purchase transportation services, you will need to go to the appropriate ticket counter or vendor for that service.

13. How far is it from the nearest subway station to the museum entrance?


The distance from the nearest subway station to the museum entrance may vary depending on which subway station you start at and which entrance of the museum you are trying to reach. Please refer to a map or contact the museum directly for specific directions.

14. Are there any parking facilities available near or within walking distance of the National Museum?

There are several parking options available near the National Museum, including:

1. National Museum Parking Lot – Located right next to the museum, this is the most convenient option. However, spaces may be limited and it can get quite crowded on weekends and during special events.

2. Wilson Parking at Supreme Court Lane – This is a 5-minute walk from the museum and has a larger capacity than the National Museum parking lot.

3. Singapore Management University (SMU) Campus Green – This is a 10-minute walk from the museum and offers all-day parking on weekends for a flat fee of $6.

4. Armenian Street Open Car Park – This is a 15-minute walk from the museum and charges an hourly rate with a maximum daily charge.

5. Bugis+ Mall – This is a 10-minute walk from the museum and offers all-day parking on weekends for a flat fee of $8.

If you are taking public transportation, there are also nearby MRT stations such as Bras Basah (Circle Line) and Dhoby Ghaut (North-South Line) that are within walking distance of the museum.

15.Upon arrival, are there maps or guides available for navigating both inside and outside of the museum?


It depends on the museum. Some museums may have maps or guides available for navigating inside the museum, while others may not. However, most museums will have maps available for navigating outside of the museum or in the surrounding area. It is best to check with the museum beforehand or ask at the information desk upon arrival.

16.Can I take a boat tour of nearby attractions from a location near the National Museum?


Yes, there are boat tours available at various locations near the National Museum that offer tours of nearby attractions. Some popular boat tour options include tours of the Tidal Basin and Potomac River, with stops at famous landmarks such as the Jefferson Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. You can also take a boat tour to see famous monuments and memorials illuminated at night.

17.Are there any limitations on bringing backpacks or large bags onto public transportation near the museum?


Yes, there may be limitations on bringing backpacks or large bags onto public transportation near the museum. Many transit systems have restrictions on the size and type of bags allowed on trains or buses for safety and security purposes. Additionally, some museums may also have rules in place prohibiting large bags or requiring them to be stored in a designated area before entering the exhibit spaces. It is best to check with the specific transit system and museum beforehand to avoid any issues.

18.What time do public transportation services typically stop running in this area?


It depends on the specific area and mode of transportation. Some public transportation services may have different schedules for weekdays, weekends, and holidays. It is best to check the website or call the customer service number for the specific service you are interested in.

19.When planning my visit, should I consider taking a guided tour that offers transportation and navigation services included?


It depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you are comfortable with navigating on your own and have a good sense of direction, you may not need a guided tour. However, if you are new to the area or prefer the convenience of having someone else handle transportation and navigation, a guided tour may be worth considering. It could also enhance your experience by providing insider knowledge and access to certain areas or activities that may be difficult to arrange on your own. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what works best for your trip.

20.Is there a shuttle service available between popular tourist destinations and museums in Kuala Lumpur, including the National Museum?


Yes, there are several shuttle services available between popular tourist destinations and museums in Kuala Lumpur, including the National Museum. Some of the most popular options are the KL Hop-On Hop-Off bus service, which stops at various tourist attractions including the National Museum, and the KL City Airport Bus, which offers direct service from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport to popular destinations such as KL Sentral and Bukit Bintang, where visitors can easily access the National Museum. Other shuttle services also provide transportation between major attractions and museums in Kuala Lumpur. It is advisable to research and book these services beforehand to ensure availability and convenience.