A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

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 Washington. 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 colorful, historic, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Kuala Lumpur and Washington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Petronas Twin Towers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Washington than Kuala Lumpur. While Kuala Lumpur is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Washington is more popular for its theatre productions, music, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Kuala Lumpur is known for its shopping and big city activities. Kuala Lumpur is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington 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 Washington?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Kuala Lumpur or Washington.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.


Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Theater?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Washington is a very popular place for theatre. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Kuala Lumpur is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Foodies will find both Kuala Lumpur and Washington both to be first-rate destinations.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Washington.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Washington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.


Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Music?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Washington is a good destination for live music. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Hiking?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.


Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Christmas?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Kuala Lumpur does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Kuala Lumpur does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Both Kuala Lumpur and Washington are high quality 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.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Kuala Lumpur and Washington both high quality 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 Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.


Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Kuala Lumpur is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Both Kuala Lumpur and Washington are first-rate destinations for students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Visitors will find first-rate public transit in both Kuala Lumpur and Washington.

With a huge network, the transit system in Kuala Lumpur can get you around easily. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Visitors in Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.


Is Kuala Lumpur or Washington a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur
Washington

Washington is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Kuala Lumpur. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Washington 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.


  • How many days in Kuala Lumpur or Washington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kuala Lumpur 1-5 
    Washington 3-7

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

When visiting Kuala Lumpur, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, one day is sufficent for most.

In Washington, many people enjoy the live music and food that this monument-filled city offers. 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 Washington?

When visiting Kuala Lumpur, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Washington is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Kuala Lumpur, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Washington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this monument-filled big city offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Kuala Lumpur, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Malaysia.


Which place is cheaper, Washington or Kuala Lumpur?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kuala Lumpur is $62, while the average daily cost in Washington is $198. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kuala Lumpur and Washington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kuala Lumpur $36
    Washington $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kuala Lumpur $72
    Washington $226
Compare Hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Washington

Looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur or Washington? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur


Hotels in Washington


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices and Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kuala Lumpur $6.45
    Washington $47
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $3.17
  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $0.68
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $3.17
  • Taxi From Airport
    $19
  • Bus from Airport
    $1.69
  • Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam
    $2.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur

Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan Transfer [Car]: $284
  • *Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Singapore Car Transfer: $273
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Singapore: $270
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Penang: $270
  • Cameron Highlands One Way Transfer: $259
  • Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Penang Island Transfer [Car]: $255
  • Private Transfer : Kuala Lumpur to Singapore: $250
  • Chauffeur: KLIA to Singapore Car Transfer: $238
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Johor Bharu: $237
  • KUL Hotel to Johor Bharu(One Way Transfer): $237
  • Marina Island Jetty/ Lumut Jetty Transfer From/To KLIA or Kuala Lumpur: $230
  • Kuala Lumpur Hotels to Singapore Hotels 1-way Transfer: $230

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • private Ronald Reagan, Washington National Airport transfer: $150
  • Washington, DC: Airport Transfer to/from DCA or IAD: $350
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Washington to Newark Airport Departure Private Transfer: $189
  • Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $201
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA): Transfer to Washington: $176
  • Washington DC: Private Transfer to Airports or Baltimore: $160
  • Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110
  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Washington City to Philadelphia City - Private Car Transfer: $137

Is it cheaper to fly into Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Prices for flights to both Washington and Kuala Lumpur change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kuala Lumpur $15
    Washington $38
Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner at Ding Tai Fung
    $8.44
  • Roti Bread
    $0.21
  • Food Court Lunch
    $3.04
  • Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)
    $4.54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $41
  • Malaysian Culture and Street Food Tour : $44
  • Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Cultural Night Tour with Dinner: $55
  • From KualaLumpur: Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour with Dinner: $56
  • ARAS Restaurant at KL Tower Buffet Dinner: $59
  • Kuala Lumpur Food Tour: $59
  • Spiritual Healing and Authentic Cooking with Local Host: $61
  • Kuala Lumpur by Night and Malaysian Food Tour: $61
  • Petaling Street Heritage Food Tour: $63
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $64

Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $140
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $161

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kuala Lumpur $13
    Washington $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • KL Tower Admission (for Two)
    $9.50
  • Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve
    $1.06

Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Adventure Sports & Thrilling White-water Rafting in Kampar River: $245
  • Half Day Kuala Lumpur Culture And Communities Exploration Tour: $30
  • Half-day Kuala Lumpur City Tour: $34
  • Historic And Heritage Melaka Tour: $55
  • History, Heritage & Culture Of Malaysia Tour: $62
  • KLCC Lake Symphony & The River of Life Tour from Kuala Lumpur: $33
  • Kuala Selangor Firefly Tour : Exclusive Deal: $55
  • Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive): $184
  • Malaysia: Aquaria KLCC Entry Ticket: $13
  • Shah Alam Islamic Arts and Culture Tours : $31
  • *12 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Bentong w' Tour Guide: $91
  • *12 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Port Dickson w' Tour Guide: $91

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

  • "Secrets & Scandals of Capitol Hill" Guided Evening Walking Tour: $20
  • 1.5 Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour with Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: $40
  • 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
  • 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill: $55
  • 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC: $25
  • 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC's Monumental Marvels: $25
  • African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $350
  • African American History Tour with Museum Admission: $89
  • America’s Main Street and White House – Full-Day Tour: $741
  • Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Exclusive Guided Tour : $101
  • Arlington Cemetery Guided Afternoon Walking Tour: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kuala Lumpur $6.25
    Washington $19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $9.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Washington, we can see that Washington 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 Washington is in North America, 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Washington, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur or Washington?

Washington has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Washington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Washington. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kuala Lumpur is around the same temperature as Washington in the summer. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In Kuala Lumpur, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Washington during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Washington. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F) 
    Washington 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Washington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Washington. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Washington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Washington. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Washington. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F) 
    Washington 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Washington during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Washington. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kuala Lumpur 27°C (81°F) 
    Washington 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Washington in the Spring?

Both Washington and Kuala Lumpur during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Washington in the spring. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Washington. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Washington. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kuala Lumpur 28°C (82°F) 
    Washington 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Washington and Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Washington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 239 mm (9.4 in) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 200 mm (7.9 in) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 28°C (82°F) 240 mm (9.4 in) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 28°C (82°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 200 mm (7.9 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 280 mm (11 in) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 290 mm (11.4 in) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 250 mm (9.8 in) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)