Why you need to visit Masjid Wilayah in Kuala Lumpur
A few days before arriving in Kuala Lumpur, we stumbled upon a dreamy picture of Masjid Wilayah (also known as the Federal Territory Mosque) while browsing Instagram and knew instantly that we needed to add this place to our itinerary. Boy are we glad we did!
Here are the top reasons why we think you should visit the beautiful Masjid Wilayah mosque the next time you’re in Kuala Lumpur :
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1. Culture
One of the characteristics that makes Malaysia so special is its extremely rich and diversified culture. It is a mixture of many different ethnic groups, languages, religions and customs. With over 60% of the population being muslim, we thought it would be interesting to learn more about this religion that we, quite frankly, knew very little about. The Masjid Wilayah really is the perfect place to do just that! There is a team of volunteers that offer free tours of the mosque from 10 AM and are happy to answer all of your questions. They also provide appropriate clothing for non-muslim women who would like to join the tours.
2. People
The volunteer tour guides are simply some of the kindest and most welcoming people we have met. Our guide Ahmed took us around this enormous structure explaining in detail the different main principles of Islam. He detailed how prayers were practiced in the Mosque and answered any questions we had. At no time during our two visits (yes, we just had to come back for some more pictures the day after our tour) did we ever feel like anyone was trying to preach anything whatsoever. We truly believe that the only goal of any of the volunteers here is to benefit from the cultural exchange they get to have with you. They are truely happy to host visitors from all around the world.
3. Architecture
We can almost guarantee, especially if you dabble in photography as we do, that this Mosque will make your jaw drop as soon as you step inside. The details and geometric patterns in the walls and ceilings are the most intricate we have ever seen. The sheer grandeur of the main prayer hall is simply breathtaking. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we stepped outside into the near perfectly symmetrical courtyard from where you can admire the two giant minarets which frame the immense turquoise and gold central dome towering above us.
4. Extra Tips on Masjid Wilayah
- Ask your Taxi / Grab / Uber to drop you off at entrance B which is the closest to the tour guide office. That is where women will be given clothes for their visit.
- Do not shy away from taking pictures and even asking your guide where the best photo ops are!
- To help get some great photos, we would suggest going for 10 AM. That way you will not be there during one of the five prayers. We saw hardly any other guest (both foreign or local) at this time.
- Never will any of the volunteers ask for any sort of donation of any kind. However if you do wish to donate some money don’t hesitate to do so! The easiest way is to use one of the machines which are located at most of the entrances. You select how much you would like to give and then simply scan your credit card.
- Don’t fret about leaving your bags in the tour office. There is always someone present here and this is the last place in Kuala Lumpur that you will get your things stolen.
P.S. Visiting the mosque is completely free and only an 5-8 RM Grab ride from the center of the city. So what are you waiting for?!
Looking for a tropical escape after visiting Kuala Lumpur? Read our guide to visiting the amazing Perhentian Islands!!
