Things To Do
in Putrajaya

Putrajaya is a meticulously planned city in Malaysia that blends sweeping modern architecture with tranquil waterways. It serves as the federal administrative center, featuring grand white government buildings set among manicured gardens and reflective lakes. The skyline is dominated by iconic structures like the Putra Mosque and Seri Wawasan Bridge, creating picture-perfect vistas at every turn.

Visitors enjoy a calm, clean environment with ample green spaces and a waterside ambiance that contrasts with nearby Kuala Lumpur's bustle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Putrajaya
morning
:

Begin your journey in Putrajaya by visiting the iconic Putra Mosque, renowned for its stunning pink dome and beautiful lakeside setting. Take time to stroll around the beautiful architecture and enjoy the serene atmosphere as the morning sun rises over the water. Don't forget to capture some stunning photographs of this architectural marvel.

afternoon
:

After lunch, make your way to the Putrajaya Botanical Garden, a lush green space that offers a perfect spot for relaxation and a picnic. Explore the various themed gardens, including the exotic garden and the herb garden, while learning about Malaysia's diverse flora. This tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head over to the Putrajaya Lake for a scenic boat ride that allows you to enjoy the sprawling views of the skyline. The evening lights cast a magical glow over the city, making it a perfect backdrop for a peaceful boat journey. Conclude your day with dinner at a lakeside restaurant, savoring delicious local cuisine while enjoying the picturesque views.

day 2
Cultural Discoveries
morning
:

Start your morning with a visit to the Millennium Monument, which showcases the history and development of Malaysia in a captivating way. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the iconic buildings of Putrajaya. This monument provides insight into Malaysia's past and its journey towards modernization.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the Putrajaya International Convention Centre, a stunning architectural gem that often hosts exhibitions and events. Take a guided tour to appreciate its design and learn about the various international events it accommodates. Don't miss the panoramic views from the centre that highlight the urban landscape of Putrajaya.

evening
:

As night falls, visit the Prime Minister's Office, which is beautifully illuminated after dark. The surrounding gardens are perfect for an evening stroll, where you can embrace the calmness of the city. Delight in a local dinner at nearby restaurants to experience authentic Malaysian flavors.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant$25-40
Coffee at a cafe$2-4
🏨One night in a mid-range hotel$40-90
🚌Public transit ticket$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent modern infrastructure and scenic lake precincts
  • Safe, well-maintained greenspaces and gardens
  • Convenient access to Kuala Lumpur and Cyberjaya
  • Limited nightlife and traditional market experiences compared to central KL
  • Spread-out layout means more driving or ridesharing
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please/Help
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
  • "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Saya tidak faham" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Putrajaya

Visit one of these nice places.

Putra Mosque

Iconic pink-domed mosque by Putrajaya Lake; best photographed at sunrise or blue hour with reflections on the water.

Seri Wawasan Bridge

Elegant cable-stayed bridge offering dramatic lines and mirror-like lake reflections, especially at dusk.

Perdana Putra (Prime Minister's Office) exterior

Grand, white facade with water features that create striking symmetry for wide-angle shots.

Putrajaya Lake Promenade

Waterfront views and skyline angles ideal for long-exposure shots and dramatic sunsets.

Putrajaya Botanical Garden

Expansive greenery with seasonal color in flowers and varied landscapes for macro and landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Putrajaya

Putrajaya offers a spectrum of Malay, Chinese, and international cuisines, with easy access to malls like IOI City Mall and Alamanda for diverse dining options. Expect flavorful local staples, casual hawker bites, and comfortable café fare in a modern setting.

Putrajaya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Lemak

Fragrant coconut rice served with sambal, peanuts, boiled egg, anchovies, and cucumber; a Malaysian staple found at many eateries.

Must-Try!

Satay Kajang

Skewered grilled meat served with peanut sauce, onions, and cucumber; famous across the region and widely available near Putrajaya.

Rendang

Slow-cooked beef or chicken in coconut milk and spices; rich, spicy, and a common feature in Malay cuisine.

Ikan Bakar

Grilled fish with spicy sambal and a squeeze of lime; often enjoyed with steamed rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kajang Satay Street Market

Renowned for satay vendors; best experienced in the evenings and a short drive from Putrajaya.

Cyberjaya Food Street

Outdoor hawker area with a mix of Malay, Indian, and Chinese stalls; great for trying nasi lemak, roti canai, and mee goreng.

Putrajaya Central Market

Small market near the transit hub offering fresh fruit, snacks, and quick bites for a casual meal.

Climate Guide

Weather

Putrajaya has a tropical rainforest climate with warm, humid conditions year-round. Expect average daytime temperatures in the mid-20s to mid-30s Celsius, with frequent afternoon showers, especially during the monsoon seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress and modesty

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or government buildings; shoulders and knees should be covered.

Religious and greetings

Greet with a smile and a polite 'Selamat' phrases; handshakes are common among adults; remove footwear if entering homes or mosques where required.

Queueing and public conduct

Be patient in queues; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice typical travel safety: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, use reputable transportation, and be mindful of traffic when crossing roads. Emergency services are accessible via local numbers, and healthcare facilities are readily available in the city and nearby Kuala Lumpur area.

Tipping in Putrajaya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory; many places include a service charge of around 10% in larger establishments. Small tips for good service are appreciated but not expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards and e-wallets (such as Touch 'n Go and GrabPay) are common in malls and upscale venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid days with intermittent showers; stay hydrated and use sun protection; mornings and late afternoons are ideal for outdoor exploring.

Northeast Monsoon (Nov–Feb) and Wet season

Increased rainfall and higher humidity; plan outdoor activities for dry periods and keep rain gear handy.

Southwest Monsoon (May–Sep) and shoulder periods

Warm conditions with sudden showers; good for lush landscapes but be prepared for rain interruptions.

Nightlife Guide

Putrajaya at Night

Putrajaya offers a quieter nightlife scene compared to Kuala Lumpur, with cafes and lounges concentrated around IOI City Mall and nearby Cyberjaya. Most venues close earlier, and the focus is on relaxed evenings by the lake, family-friendly dining, and occasional live music at select venues.

Hiking in Putrajaya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Broga (Semenyih)

Popular sunrise hike with panoramic views; a 40–60 minute drive from Putrajaya.

Kuala Lumpur Forest Reserve (Bukit Nanas)

Urban forest with easy to moderate trails and city views; located in Kuala Lumpur.

Bukit Tabur (Kampung Kuang/Batu Caves)

Rugged ridgeline hike with dramatic sandstone formations and lake views; more suited to experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Putrajaya by plane.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)

Major international and domestic hub; typically 40–60 minutes by car or train depending on traffic.

KLIA2

Low-cost carrier terminal connected to KLIA; same travel time considerations.

Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah) Airport (SZB)

Smaller airport serving domestic and regional flights; roughly 60–90 minutes away by car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Putrajaya is a grid-like, walkable city center with pedestrian-friendly precincts, but many major sights are spread apart; best experienced with a mix of walking, cycling, and short rides.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Government and civil service

Putrajaya is the administrative hub of Malaysia, home to many government offices and international staff.

Families and professionals

A mix of local families and professionals living around the landscaped precincts.

Expatriates

Growing community linked to government and international firms in the Klang Valley area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A popular pastime with many community courts and clubs in the region.

Football (Soccer)

Local leagues and casual play at schools and parks.

Running/Cross-Country

Parks and lake trails attract runners and joggers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during weekday peak hours around KL and Putrajaya corridors. Public transport exists but most visitors rely on cars or ridesharing; weekends can be busy near popular venues.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Putrajaya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and plant-based options; request no meat or fish when ordering; many places can accommodate with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Accessible healthcare with public and private facilities in Putrajaya and nearby Cyberjaya/Kuala Lumpur; major hospitals in KL provide specialist care; carry health insurance and copies of medical records.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide