Everything You Need to Know about Aquaria KLCC
Aquaria KLCC spans over 60,000 square feet and houses more than 5,000 marine and freshwater creatures. It was designed around 2005 to let you get up close with everything from sharks to stingrays.
This place doesn’t just focus on marine species (Langkawi Underwater World), though—it’s all about the ecosystems. You’ll find exhibits dedicated to rainforests and rivers, too, so it’s a cool mix of habitats in one space.
Bonus: they’ve got daily feeding sessions where you can watch marine life come alive! It’s family-friendly, but honestly, anyone with a soft spot for nature will find themselves geeking out here.
Things to Know
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 8 PM
Contact: +60 32 333 1888
Ticket Prices:
Weekday:
- Adult – RM52 (Locals), RM75 (Tourists)
- Child/Senior – RM42 (Locals), RM65 (Tourists)
Weekend:
- Adult – RM55 (Locals), RM79 (Tourists)
- Child/Senior – RM45 (Locals), RM69 (Tourists)
Where is Aquaria KLCC?
Aquaria KLCC is located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, which is part of the iconic KLCC area. For those who don’t know, KLCC is where you’ll find the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC.
If you’re figuring out directions, it’s all within the Golden Triangle district, one of the city’s busiest and most visited spots. You can get there easily by train via the KLCC LRT station or just grab a cab—it’s a landmark area, so pretty much every driver knows the way!
How to Get to Aquaria KLCC
Closest subway stop: The closest LRT stop to Aquaria KLCC is the KLCC station on the Kelana Jaya line—just hop off and follow the signs to Suria KLCC. From there, it’ll be just a short walk through the convention center to the aquarium.
If you’re coming by bus, the GoKL City Bus (the free purple line) stops near Suria KLCC as well.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a stroll through the beautiful KLCC Park, and you’ll find your way to Aquaria in no time!
What to Do and See in Aquaria KLCC
Discover its diverse themed exhibits
Aquaria KLCC is packed with fascinating attractions that cater to all ages. Its themed exhibits will take you on an incredible journey through various habitats—check them below!
Evolution Zone and The Stream
– Media credit: bulonertravelandvlog
The Evolution Zone is all about showcasing the origins of marine life and the awe-inspiring adaptations that living creatures have made over time. They’re a mix of creepy and cool!
You’ll get to witness some bizarre and ancient-looking aquatic species like primitive fish and red-bellied piranhas that tell the story of evolution. Once you move into The Stream, you’ll encounter freshwater species that are bursting with vibrant colors and energy.
This area replicates life in rivers and streams, with animals like adorable Asian small-clawed otters, sleek fish, and even amphibians like frogs.
Touch Zone and Jewels of Jungle
– Media credit: fenggou_photog
The Touch Zone lets you dip your fingers into the experience by interacting with some of the aquarium’s smaller residents. Think starfish, sea cucumbers, bamboo sharks, and some other gentle creatures—it’s perfect for kids and curious adults!
The Jewels of the Jungle exhibition, on the other hand, is like stepping into a lush rainforest. This section is filled with stunning reptiles, amphibians, and insects that thrive in the jungle environment.
Whether it’s the bright green tree frogs or stunning geckos, you’ll be amazed by the vibrant colors and diversity of species here.
Shipwreck and Flooded Forest
– Media credit: aquariaklcc
At the Shipwreck exhibit, you’ll find fascinating marine life that thrives around wrecked ships and man-made underwater structures. This area is home to creatures like groupers, stonefish, and fascinating coral formations.
It’s incredible to see how human artifacts can become natural habitats over time—worth exploring! The Flooded Forest exhibit, meanwhile, takes you into submerged forests teeming with life.
Massive freshwater fish like arapaimas and alligator garfish call this place home, and it’s truly a sight to behold!
The Coastal and Station Aquarius
– Media credit: aquariaklcc
The Coastal exhibit shines a light on creatures that live along the shoreline and shallow waters, including striking starfish, archerfish, giant mudskippers, and more. It’s an engaging area to learn about the delicate ecosystems that thrive at the edges of sea.
As you continue, you’ll arrive at Station Aquarius. Here, you’ll discover captivating facts, such as how moon jellyfish use their stinging tentacles for hunting and self-defense, or learn about their unique reproductive process.
Living Ocean and the Weird and Wonderful
– Media credit: sweetsumi_
The Living Ocean is the star attraction of Aquaria KLCC. It features Malaysia’s longest underwater tunnel (90 meters), where you’ll walk through as sharks, rays, turtles, and other marine animals glide above and around you.
It’s one of those jaw-dropping experiences that’ll leave you completely mesmerized. And then there’s the Weird and Wonderful exhibit, which does justice to its name by showcasing some of the strangest and most unusual marine life you’ll ever see.
From pinecone fish to fascinating invertebrates, this section is great for embracing the diversity and quirks of underwater creatures.
Catch the daily feeding sessions
– Media credit: aquariaklcc
Aquaria’s daily feeding sessions are far more than just watching fish get their meals. As the aquarists hand-feed the marine animals, they share fascinating details about each species and their important roles.
What makes this even more special is the opportunity to see behaviors you might not catch otherwise. For example, you can observe how rays glide gracefully to collect their food, how sharks assert their dominance during mealtime, and more!
The aquarists are highly knowledgeable and approachable, so you’re free to ask questions and learn as much as you want.
Try the thrilling “Cage Rage” experience
– Media credit: aquariaklcc
The “Cage Rage” experience at Aquaria KLCC is designed precisely for thrill-seekers who want to feel the adrenaline of being surrounded by these fascinating marine predators, all from the safety of a custom-made underwater cage.
Placed in the heart of the Living Ocean exhibit, you’ll have a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring underwater spectacles. One of the highlights here is its accessibility—it’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any previous diving experience.
You’ll be suited up with all the necessary equipment, placed into the water and left to take it all in. Through the underwater windows of your cage, you’ll observe the graceful movements of sharks, rays, turtles, and a variety of vibrant marine life.
Join the “Dive with Sharks” program
– Media credit: aquariaklcc
For certified divers, Aquaria KLCC offers something unparalleled—the “Dive with Sharks” program. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to descend into the 2.5 million-liter oceanarium tank and come face-to-face with some of the ocean’s feared predators.
The dive occurs under the guidance of trained professionals who make sure that your experience is both safe and enriching. Just make sure to confirm that you have an open water diving certification before signing up, as it’s a requirement for this activity.
Also, plan since sessions aren’t available every day and can fill up quickly. As part of the package, you’ll receive everything you need—gear, guidance, and even a memento in the form of a certificate to commemorate your dive.
Where to Eat and Drink in and near Aquaria KLCC
Marble 8 Steak House & Fine Dining Restaurant in KL
– Media credit: marble_8
Address: Level 56, Menara 3 Petronas, Persiaran KLCC
Phone: +60 32 386 6030
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 PM to 3 PM, 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Good to know: Great for couples, corporate events
Marble 8 Steakhouse & Fine Dining Restaurant specializes in serving some of the finest cuts of beef, like Wagyu and Angus, that go through a meticulous dry-aging process in their in-house aging cellar.
When it comes to what to order, there’s no shortage of choices, but go with the popular Wagyu Ribeye or the dry-aged Bistecca Fiorentina Marble 8 style. It’s not just about steak here—they’ve also got equally decadent seafood options.
Nonbiri Izakaya Japanese Restaurant
– Media credit: nonbiri.izakaya
Address: Unit 1F-03, First Floor, Life Centre, 20, Jln Sultan Ismail
Phone: +60 32 302 4660
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday – 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Good to know: Great for group hangouts, casual after-work drinks
Nonbiri Izakaya Japanese Restaurant focuses on Japanese comfort food. They specialize in a mix of classic Japanese skewers (yakitori-style) and small plates, which you can choose from a variety of chicken, beef, and even seafood options.
On top of that, their menu includes standout dishes like tsukune (chicken meatballs) and fresher options like nigiri sets and sushi rolls. And while the skewers are the main attractions, there’s plenty for non–meat eaters happy with their vegetarian dishes!
Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant
– Media credit: samadiraqimy
Address: G-3, Menara Prestige, 1, Jalan Pinang
Phone: +60 11 1110 0092
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Good to know: Excellent for families and bigger groups
Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant specializes in authentic Iraqi and Middle Eastern cuisine, pulling you right into a world of rich, bold flavors. Their menu has a variety of Middle Eastern classics (like a lot!), with the “Royal Mixed Appetizers” being a perfect pick for anyone who wants to explore different cold starters.
Think hummus, baba ganoush, and eggplant mutabbal, all in one glorious spread. And of course, their signature hummus with lamb and pine nuts brings that extra flair to an already legendary dip.
NADODI
– Media credit: nadodikl
Address: Level 7A, Four Seasons Hotel, Jln Ampang
Phone: +60 17 296 9520
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM, 6 PM to 10:30 PM
- Tuesday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM, 6 PM to 11 PM
Good to know: Best for couples or anyone who loves an immersive dining experience
Nadadi’s chefs dive deep into the roots of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Sri Lanka, taking traditional flavors up a notch. What sets Nadodi apart is its focus on degustation menus, making it ideal for adventurous foodies.
They’ve got several standout dishes—Kerala pepper fry (think lamb saddle and Sarawakian pepper) and fish head curry with Sabahan coral grouper are big hits.
Vermut Restaurant and Bar
– Media credit: vermut.kl
Address: 17, Jln Mesui, Bukit Bintang
Phone: +60 10 450 9280
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 1:30 AM
- Sunday – 5 PM to 12 AM
Good to know: Best for night outs
Vermut Restaurant and Bar has this relaxed yet lively vibe, and tapas lovers—you’ll find everything here from fun and intriguing bites to beautifully plated dishes showcasing the best of Spain!
On the menu, you’ll find the alien-like percebes (steamed gooseneck barnacles), which is something you have to try. Then there’s the Socarrat paella—this one’s a standout for sure with its crispy, caramelized base.
Where to Stay near Aquaria KLCC
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
– Media credit: grandhyattkualalumpur
Address: 12, Jalan Pinang
Phone: +60 32 182 1234
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Grand Hyatt KL offers incredible convenience for both leisure and business travelers. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, giving you an impressive view of the city skyline or the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
You’ll find an extensive range of dining options here, with several on-site restaurants, including THIRTY8 and JP Teres. Beyond food, Grand Hyatt has a spa, an outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and conference facilities that cater to all kinds of gatherings.
Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
– Media credit: tradershotelkl
Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Phone: +60 32 332 9888
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur is hugely popular among those visiting the area for its unbeatable proximity to major attractions. The rooms here are neatly designed with clean lines and practical furnishings, offering everything from free Wi-Fi to great views.
The hotel is home to the famous SkyBar, which not only serves great cocktails but also provides a poolside view of the Petronas Towers. Traders Hotel is also a favourite for business travelers thanks to its meeting rooms and event spaces.
The RuMa Hotel and Residences
– Media credit: therumahotel
Address: 7, Jalan Kia Peng
Phone: +60 32 778 0888
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The RuMa Hotel and Residences is a tasteful boutique-style hotel that blends world-class hospitality with a homely charm. The rooms and suites are sleek and uncluttered, designed with a mix of contemporary and traditional Malaysian touches.
Don’t skip out on their spa services if relaxation is on your agenda (who isn’t, right?). The on-site UR SPA focuses on wellness, offering a range of treatments tailored to your needs.
Impiana KLCC Hotel
– Media credit: asrifujias
Address: 13, Jalan Pinang
Phone: +60 32 147 1111
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Impiana KLCC Hotel is a solid mid-range option if you’re looking for something comfortable, functional, and conveniently located. The hotel offers direct access to the KLCC and is just a short stroll from Suria KLCC, Aquaria, and the Petronas Towers.
Now, the hotel’s rooms are simple but have everything, including free Wi-Fi, in-room workspaces, and comfy furnishings. Aside from offering a breakfast buffet, the hotel also lets you unwind at their rooftop infinity pool or book a massage at the Swasana Spa.
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
– Media credit: mo_kualalumpur
Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Phone: +60 32 380 8888
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Staying at Mandarin Oriental means you’re neighbors with Aquaria KLCC and the Petronas Towers, not to mention all the entertainment and dining options in the area. The rooms and suites exude understated elegance, along with modern amenities.
When it comes to food, Mandarin Oriental has a collection of dining spots under one roof—Lai Po Heen is known for refined Cantonese cuisine, while Aqua Restaurant & Bar offers casual dining with city views. Their wellness facilities are another highlight.