The National Mosque was constructed in 1965 as a symbol of a newly independent and united Malaysia. It was designed by a team of British and Malaysian architects and is a bold combination of cutting-edge modernist design and Islamic symbolism. This beautiful 13-acre (5.2-hectare) site in downtown Kuala Lumpur is surrounded by pools, fountains and gardens.
Admire the bright blue folded plates of the main dome and the 240-foot (73-metre) high minaret (tower) as you approach the enormous mosque. Both features take inspiration from an umbrella, chosen to represent Malaysia’s tropical climate. The top of the minaret takes the shape of a retracted umbrella while the main dome resembles one fully extended. Throughout the complex are 48 smaller domes that sit atop sheltered walkways and administrative quarters.
Inside the main prayer hall is a vast space with intricately patterned walls, colored-glass windows and elaborate chandeliers. There’s enough room for 15,000 people inside, making it one of the largest mosques in Asia. Wander outside to find landscaped gardens, fountains, pools and a decorated courtyard.
Attached to the mosque is the Makam Pahlawan, or Heroes’ Mausoleum, which houses the bodies of key Malaysian political figures. It features a dome similar in design to the main mosque, and is surrounded by a moat and gardens.
Be sure to wear respectful clothing when visiting the National Mosque. Men and women alike should cover their legs and arms, and women need to wear a headscarf. You can pick up a robe or coat from a staff member at the entrance if you need additional clothing. Non-Muslim tourists can only enter the mosque Saturday through Thursday, and only at certain times of the day. Check the signs or with staff for details.
The National Mosque is in downtown Kuala Lumpur, next to the Lake Gardens and a short walk from KL Sentral Station. Admission is free.
National Mosque Tours and Activities
Visit National Mosque
Plan a trip to see National Mosque
OYO 552 Hotel Kl Centre Point
Reviewed on 12 Jan. 2019
Tours & day trips
See all 1315 activitiesOpens in new tabKuala Lumpur: Suburbs and Batu Caves Half-Day Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 70 activitiesOpens in new tabLive Like a Local: Join Us for an Authentic Experience
Adventure & outdoor
See all 31 activitiesOpens in new tabMalaysia - Countryside and Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur
Attractions
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tab3 Days and 2 Nights in Kuala Lumpur with Accomodations & Activities
Shopping & fashion
See all 27 activitiesOpens in new tabTotal Kuala Lumpur Experience Tour
Popular places to visit
Islamic Arts Museum
You can spend time studying the exhibits at Islamic Arts Museum during your travels in Kuala Lumpur. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Get up close to some of Malaysia's famous hornbills, parakeets and other tropical birds at this fun, hands-on aviary.
National Planetarium
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by National Planetarium in Kuala Lumpur. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this vibrant area.
Butterfly Park
Explore the great outdoors at Butterfly Park, a lovely green space in Kuala Lumpur. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Kasturi Walk
During your trip to Kuala Lumpur, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Kasturi Walk. Wander through the Chinatown and picturesque gardens in this vibrant area.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple
You can find out about the history of Kuala Lumpur with a trip to Sri Mahamariamman Temple. Wander through the Chinatown and picturesque gardens in this vibrant area.
Top National Mosque Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to National Mosque
- Holidays and getaways similar to National Mosque
- Are there hotels near National Mosque?
- Hotels near popular Kuala Lumpur Attractions
- What kind of hotels are in National Mosque?
- Hotels near Petronas Twin Towers
- Hotels near Berjaya Times Square
- Hotels near Sunway Pyramid Mall
- Hotels near Mid Valley Megamall
- Hotels near KLCC Park
- Hotels near Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
- Hotels near Suria KLCC Shopping Centre
- Hotels near Bukit Jalil National Stadium
- Hotels near Kuala Lumpur Tower
- Hotels near Paradigm Mall
- Hotels near Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
- Hotels near Batu Caves
- Hotels near Cheras Leisure Mall