Masjid Negara is large mosque in the city of Kuala Lumpur. The mosque is now deemed as an important symbol of the Islamic country of Malaysia.

• Between prayers, suitably dressed tourists (purple gowns are available) can explore a monument to modern Malaysia (9am-noon; 3pm-4pm; 5.30pm-6.30pm), where Buddhism, Christianity and Hinduism thrive.
• Dash from the mosque to the outdoor Tanglin food court (21) on Jalan Cenderasari, where cafés vie for post-prayer trade. Take what you fancy or walk out back to find a chaotic, nameless barbecue.

Lake Gardens is Kuala Lumpur's first large-scale recreational park. Lake Gardens served as place of refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city

• Afterwards, continue your circuit to Bird Park (22), billed as the "world's largest free-flight walk-in aviary", to pose with parrots and watch ostriches lay eggs (open 9am-6pm daily; RM48 (£10) for adults, 38 (£7.50) for children.

Batu Caves is a limestone hill comprising three major caves and a number of smaller ones. The cave is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India.

• Watch monkeys take shortcuts up the cliffs as you climb (7am to 7pm daily; admission free).
• Get out of town on the KTM Komuter line, seven miles north to Batu Caves (trains run every 30 minutes and take 30 minutes; returns RM4/80p).