What Are the Things to Do in the Central Market

Having once served as one of the Malaysian capital's wet markets or floating markets as far back as 1888, the Central Market remains one of KL's main retail hotspots. Although the location of the market changed in the 1980s, the large blue building where it's now housed is just as vibrant and as iconic as the thoroughfare was during its heyday. Here are 5 activities first-time visitors can enjoy at the Central Market.

Enjoying a Shopping Spree

As the main reason why tourists and locals head to the Central Market in the first place, the most obvious activity to engage in at the venue is shopping. Travellers walking into the Central Market building will find its air-conditioned interiors a welcome change while the wide variety of shops specialising in souvenirs and handicrafts will also overwhelm those with a love for cultural items. Some of the most coveted souvenir items for sale at the Central Market include pewter courtesy of Royal Selangor and batiks, which come not only in clothing form but also as home decor items. Beaded bags, footwear and brooches from Peranakan culture are also available here alongside mobile shops where one can buy a local SIM or have their phone repaired.

Explore nearby Kasturi Walk

Tourists heading to the Central Market can also venture down to the flea market known as Kasturi Walk. This open-air thoroughfare down Jalan Kasturi is located alongside Central Market and is easily identifiable thanks to the massive Kelantanese kite dominating its entrance walkway. Considered the best place to buy warm Malay cakes or Kuih in KL, Kasturi Walk is home to countless kiosks selling everything from souvenirs and tasteful keepsakes to snacks and fresh coconut water.

Tour an Art Gallery

Art lovers based at Domitys Bangsar Kuala Lumpur and other similar Kuala Lumpur senior citizen living spaces also frequent the Annexe Gallery at the Central Market. Located behind the main building, Art Annexe, as it is also known, contains several exhibition rooms showcasing the works of Malaysian artists. The Annexe Gallery is a unique art venue in KL that offers visitors the chance to watch artists at work. Although only some of the artwork on display is for sale, those who are interested in purchasing any art piece should contact the proprietors of the gallery. This gallery is known for encouraging interactions between artists and the public, making it one of the more eclectic and alternative art galleries in KL that travellers can explore.

Catch a Show

Don't forget to drop by the outdoor stage that has been erected at the Central Market as this is where some of the area's best cultural performances can be witnessed. Hosting dance recitals, multi-cultural showcases and local celebrations regularly, the outdoor stage comes alive, especially during the weekend. As a great place to watch traditional performances and learn about Malaysian dance and music culture, catching a show at the Central Market is essential for curious shoppers in search of a good time.

Unwind with a Massage

Those who are tired after exploring the Central Market's myriad of shops or sightseeing in Kuala Lumpur can also get a relaxing massage at the venue. Foot massages are by far the most popular therapeutic service on offer at the in-house spa as it's the ultimate remedy for aching or sore feet. Manjakaki, the recently opened spa in the Central Market, not only specialises in foot reflexology but also herbal scrubs, massage sessions and even cupping. Ladies who wish to indulge in a manicure or pedicure will also find these services at the venue where a hot sauna is also found. Manjakaki occupies pride of place on the Mezzanine floor of the Central Market. There's no need to make prior appointments to enjoy a massage at the locale.