Backpacker Street, Malaysia

Why You'll Love Backpacker Street

Backpacker Street is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a low-key and budget-friendly vacation in Malaysia. Also known as Jalan Alor, this street offers a mix of street food stalls, cafes, and bars that are perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. It's a lively and bustling street that's perfect for exploring and mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Getting to Backpacker Street

The closest international airport to Backpacker Street is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), which is approximately 60 kilometers away. From KUL, you can take a taxi or hop on a bus that goes to Kuala Lumpur downtown. Alternatively, you can also take a train or bus from other parts of Malaysia to Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station, and then take a taxi or public transport to Backpacker Street.

The closest city to Backpacker Street is Kuala Lumpur, in Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.

Travelling from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Backpacker Street

When to Visit

The best time to visit Backpacker Street is between March and October when the weather is dry and sunny. The monsoon season in Malaysia usually occurs from November to February, which can cause heavy rainfall and floods in some areas.

Weather and Climate

The weather in Backpacker Street is generally hot and humid all year round, with occasional rainfall. From March to August, the temperatures range from 25°C to 33°C, while from September to February, the temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C. The monsoon season from November to February can cause heavy rainfall and floods in some areas, so it's best to check weather conditions before traveling.

Costs When Visiting

In Malaysia, the currency is the Ringgit (MYR).
Some sample costs when travelling around Backpacker Street are:

Sample Accommodation Costs

Accommodation in Backpacker Street is budget-friendly, with hostels and guesthouses offering dormitory beds for as low as RM20 per night. For those who prefer more privacy, private rooms in guesthouses and budget hotels usually cost around RM80 to RM150 per night. Mid-range hotels are also available from RM200 to RM500 per night.

Sample Food Costs

Backpacker Street is known for its street food, which is both delicious and affordable. A meal from a street food stall usually costs around RM5 to RM15, while a meal in a local cafe or restaurant costs around RM20 to RM50 per person. If you prefer to cook your meals, groceries from a local supermarket usually cost around RM50 to RM100 per week.

Safety Rating

Malaysia is generally considered a safe country for tourists, including Backpacker Street. However, tourists should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Violent crime is rare, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Women travelers should also be cautious and avoid traveling alone at night. Malaysia is known for its diversity and tolerance, but LGBTQ travelers may still face some discrimination.

Local Population

Backpacker Street is located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. The population of the city is around 1.8 million. The demographics of Kuala Lumpur are diverse, with Malay, Chinese, and Indian being the most prominent ethnic groups. The official language is Bahasa Malaysia, but English and Chinese are also widely spoken. Islam is the dominant religion, but Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity are also practiced. Gender equality is protected by law, and women have access to the same rights and opportunities as men.

Things to Do

Some popular activities for tourists in Backpacker Street include exploring the street food scene, visiting the local bars and cafes, shopping for souvenirs at the night market, and taking a tour of Kuala Lumpur to see its top attractions like the Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and Merdeka Square. For more adventurous travelers, there are also opportunities for hiking and trekking in the nearby mountains, or visiting nearby islands for snorkeling and diving.