A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and Mount Aspiring National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a historic, modern, and welcoming city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Kuala Lumpur and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Kuala Lumpur and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Kuala Lumpur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Kuala Lumpur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kuala Lumpur are among the most recognizable in the world. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kuala Lumpur is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Kuala Lumpur offers plenty to do in the evening. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Mount Aspiring National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Kuala Lumpur make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Mount Aspiring National Park are great family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very kid-friendly city. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur and Mount Aspiring National Park both great destinations for a couple.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Kuala Lumpur is a great destination for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Kuala Lumpur has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Kuala Lumpur has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Aspiring National Park . In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Aspiring National Park . Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kuala Lumpur, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Aspiring National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Kuala Lumpur is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this rugged national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Kuala Lumpur is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this undeveloped destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the modern city of Kuala Lumpur. It offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.