KL markets have been the lifeline of the urban communities ever since the city‘s conception, serving not only as shopping outlets but also as a social institution that preserves some of the charm of an older KL.
We’ve written about Imbi Market before, which has now relocated to ICC Pudu; this time we look at other popular markets around the city. The Pudu market on Jalan Pasar Pudu is almost 60 years old and is known for its breakfast and fresh ingredients; various ulam, fresh coconut milk, fiery cili boh by the kilo. This warehouse-shaped building is one of the biggest markets in KL, so come early to cover as much ground and stop for herbal teas in between shops. On weekends, the pasar breathes a different life: make-shift shops pop up on pavements selling mobile accessories, electronic goods, antiques as well as aquarium fish and plants.
Further up in Ampang, you find the Pasar Besar Pekan Ampang. This alfresco square is a busy market filled with crowd favourites that include fresh kuihs, vegetables, live chickens, toys and cheap crockeries. Outside, Madras Lane is a popular spot for hot bowls of curry noodles.
Another old favourite is Pasar Dato’ Keramat across the Dato’ Keramat LRT station. Very popular among the Malay community for its Malay cooking ingredients, it is moderate in size and retains most of its original wooden structure. This 40-year-old market is especially busy on weekends, and parking could be a problem. The LRT is the best way to go, but make sure you are prepared to cart goodies: from fish to vegetables, murtabaks and red meats, and more types of rice than you can name, this market has it all.
The biggest market in the city center, Chow Kit/Jalan Raja Bot market, is a maze of criss-crossing alleys and bursting stalls. Popular among locals and immigrants alike for its low prices and variety of items, this is the place to go if you are willing to delve into the deep trenches. Besides cooking ingredients and fresh food, there are countless stalls selling clothes, bags, books, shoes and essential goods. Partly in main building and the rest on street level, the market is vast. Wear your walking shoes for this adventure.
Picture Credit: Timeout KL
