Where to Stay in Petaling Jaya
Malaysia
|Pop. 808K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Petaling Jaya at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Petaling Jaya
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Explore the numerous hawker centers and local kopitiams (coffee shops) for the most authentic and affordable Malaysian dishes.
Getting Around
Utilize the LRT/MRT for longer distances and Grab for shorter trips or to reach areas not directly served by rail.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unscrupulous taxi drivers (use Grab to avoid this).
Solo Female Travel
Petaling Jaya is generally safe for solo female travelers. It's advisable to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
Hidden Gems in Petaling Jaya
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Taman Paramount
FREEThis is a beloved local park, perfect for a morning jog or an evening stroll. It's known for its mature trees providing ample shade and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city bustle.
Restoran Yik Mun
A legendary spot for a simple yet incredibly satisfying 'toast bread' (roti bakar) and coffee experience. Locals flock here for its old-school charm and consistently delicious breakfast fare.
Secret Garden
FREEDespite its name, this isn't a secret, but many tourists miss it. It offers a surprisingly serene escape with beautiful landscaping and a quiet ambiance, perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
SS2 Night Market
FREEWhile many night markets exist, the SS2 market is a local favorite for its diverse food stalls offering authentic Malaysian delights and a lively, bustling atmosphere.
Malaysian Association of Mines and Minerals
A unique and often overlooked museum showcasing the history and importance of mining in Malaysia. It's a fascinating dive into the country's industrial past.
Pisco Bar
This chic bar offers a sophisticated yet relaxed setting with a great selection of cocktails and tapas. It's a popular spot for locals to unwind after work with good music and ambiance.
What It Costs in Petaling Jaya
Daily budget per person in MYR
💡82% cheaper than London
MYR 150/day
MYR 300/day
MYR 600/day
Where to Stay in Petaling Jaya
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- SS2 Mall10 min
- Various food courts and hawker stalls5 min
Pros
- +Abundant and affordable food options
- +Good local atmosphere
- +Well-connected by public transport
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially during peak hours
- -Limited high-end shopping
Best for
Walk to
- Atria Shopping Gallery15 min
- Starling Mall20 min
Pros
- +Excellent dining and entertainment options
- +Clean and well-maintained environment
- +Good for evening strolls
Cons
- -Can be expensive
- -Public transport access might require a short ride
Top stays in Damansara Utama (Uptown)
Aseania Resort & Spa
$$Resort-style accommodation with pool and spa facilities.
Eastin Hotel Petaling Jaya
$$$Established hotel known for its business facilities and service.
Armanee Terrace Condominium
$$$Spacious serviced apartments offering a home-away-from-home experience.
Best for
Walk to
- Sunway Giza Mall5 min
- Encorp Strand Mall10 min
Pros
- +Wide variety of restaurants and bars
- +Good value for money
- +Access to green spaces like Kota Damansara Community Forest
Cons
- -Can be noisy in entertainment zones
- -Traffic congestion is common
Top stays in Kota Damansara
QHC Hotel Kota Damansara
$$Comfortable and convenient hotel located near commercial centers.
De Kota Premier
$$Chic boutique hotel with unique decor and a central location.
SEVEN Terrace @ Kota Damansara
$$Modern hotel offering stylish rooms and good amenities.
Areas to be cautious
- Some industrial areas or very isolated residential streets after dark.: These areas can have very low foot traffic and poor lighting, increasing the risk of petty crime or feeling unsafe, especially if you are alone.
Insider tip: Explore the numerous hawker centers and local kopitiams (coffee shops) for the most authentic and affordable Malaysian dishes.
Safety in Petaling Jaya
SafeSolo Female Travel
Petaling Jaya is generally safe for solo female travelers. It's advisable to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
At Night
Main commercial and dining areas are generally safe and busy at night. Avoid poorly lit or deserted streets, particularly in residential areas.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unscrupulous taxi drivers (use Grab to avoid this).
- 2Pickpocketing in crowded markets or shopping malls.
Getting Around Petaling Jaya
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
KLIA Ekspres to KL Sentral (30 mins, 55 MYR), then LRT to Taman Jaya or Asia Jaya station (approx. 30 mins, 3 MYR). Alternatively, taxi/Grab (1 hour, 70-100 MYR).
🎫
Day Pass
No specific day pass for LRT/MRT, but touch-n-go card can be topped up. Single rides are economical.
Single: Approx. 1-3 MYR for LRT/MRT within Petaling Jaya.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitGrab
📶
WiFi
Good25-50 Mbps
Public Transport
LRT (Light Rail Transit) is the most useful for tourists connecting to surrounding areas and Kuala Lumpur. Bus services are extensive but can be confusing for visitors. MRT also connects to some parts.
Ride-share
Grab is widely available and affordable. A typical short ride within PJ costs 5-15 MYR.
Transport Tip
Utilize the LRT/MRT for longer distances and Grab for shorter trips or to reach areas not directly served by rail.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Shopping malls, cafes, some public parks.
Coworking
WeWork (various locations in KL, accessible via LRT), Co-labs Coworking (various locations). Daily passes typically range from 30-50 MYR.
Hotels & Accommodation in Petaling Jaya
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Who Is Petaling Jaya Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Foodie Explorers
This area is a paradise for food lovers, offering an incredible array of local street food, hawker stalls, and diverse eateries.
Couples Seeking Trendy Vibes
Uptown offers a chic atmosphere with its upscale dining, boutique shops, and lively evening scene, perfect for a date night.
Budget Backpackers
Provides more affordable accommodation and dining options, with plenty of local eateries and entertainment without the higher price tag of other areas.
Families on a Mid-Range Budget
Offers a good balance of family-friendly activities, accessible dining, and a vibrant local feel without breaking the bank.
About Petaling Jaya
Petaling Jaya (Malaysian pronunciation: [pətaliŋ d͡ʒaja] ), colloquially referred to as "PJ", is a city in Petaling District, in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Originally developed as a satellite township for Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, it is part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur area. Petaling Jaya was granted city status on 20 June 2006.
Frequently Asked Questions About Petaling Jaya
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Petaling Jaya Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel