15 Hidden Gem Art Galleries in Kuala Lumpur You Can’t Miss
If you’ve ever wandered around Kuala Lumpur and thought, “There’s gotta be more art hiding somewhere,” well, you’d be right. Trust me, I’ve been there—literally.
Between grabbing a quick bite and dodging the heat, I found myself in some of the coolest, most under-the-radar art galleries the city has to offer. And here’s the best part: no massive crowds or overhyped selfie spots (though, let’s be real, a good photo op never hurts).
These galleries are tucked away in places you’d least expect, showcasing everything from traditional Malaysian art to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. Whether you’re a seasoned art buff or just someone looking to break up their day with something creative, you’re in for a treat.
Let’s dive into these hidden gems—you’ll leave feeling inspired, or at the very least, with a few Instagram-worthy shots!
UR-MU @ Bukit Bintang
— Media from ur___mu
Address: 3, Jalan Bedara, Bukit Bintang
Opening hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
Contact number: +60321103004
Fee:
- Adult – RM20
- Children (12 years and under, must be accompanied by an adult) – Free
- Student (Full-time with ID) – RM10
- Seniors (60 years and above) – RM10
- Visitor with disabilities – RM10
UR-MU is a hidden gem just a quick 5-minute walk from Bukit Bintang, and it’s a must-see for art lovers. The staff here are incredibly welcoming and friendly, giving you a quick rundown of the gallery’s rules without making it feel like a lecture.
Spread across five floors, each one has its own unique theme like “Asia People” or “Monsters & Superheroes,” so there’s always something new to discover. From paintings to sculptures and photographs, the variety of art is impressive.
Don’t forget to check out the rooftop garden—it’s got a lovely view of the surrounding gritty neighbourhood.
Pro tip: You’ll need to leave your bags in a locker downstairs, so pack light or plan to stash your stuff before heading in.
Wei-Ling Gallery
— Media from Weilinggallery and _____rajinder
Address: 8, Jalan Scott, Brickfields
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +60322601106
Fee:
- Free admission by appointment only.
- Walk-ins can still enjoy free admission by registering via QR code/Google Forms.
- RM10 entry fee for those not registering.
- Policy applies to visitors aged 12 and above.
Wei-Ling Gallery is a little off the beaten path, but totally worth it for art enthusiasts. The gallery is set in a charming 1940s building, which is an attraction in itself.
The staff are super friendly, and the whole place has a cosy vibe that’s perfect for taking in local artwork. There’s even a little reading space where you can relax after your tour.
It’s not just the art that’s high-quality—the architecture is too, as it used to be an architecture firm! If you’re into modern art and local talent, this is a great spot to spend an afternoon.
Pro tip: Parking is limited, so it’s best to book a Grab ride to avoid the hassle.
National Art Gallery
— Media from realleonaart
Address: Lembaga Pembangunan Seni Visual Negara, 2, Jalan Temerloh
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +60340267000
Fee: Free
The National Art Gallery is a chill, laid-back spot that’s perfect for an easy weekday visit. It wasn’t crowded when I went, which made it even more enjoyable to wander through the diverse collection of local art.
Plus, the gallery is huge, and there’s plenty to see, so plan to spend more time than you think. Even if you’re not big into art, the variety of pieces makes it interesting, and it’s right near the MRT Hospital Kuala Lumpur station, so it’s easy to get to.
The lack of dress code means you’ll see everything from tourists to school kids enjoying the exhibits. The only downside is that many pieces don’t have detailed explainers, so you’ll need to come up with your own interpretations.
Pro tip: Entry is free, but you’ll need to register at the counter first. Lockers are also available for storing your belongings.
Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery
— Media from joonloong
Address: Sasana Kijang, 2, Jalan Dato Onn
Opening hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +60391792784
Fee: Free
Bank Negara’s museum and gallery is spread across three floors, with exhibits ranging from Islamic finance and economics to art galleries showcasing batik and historical pieces.
The museum is also highly secure, so you can leave your bags behind—just bring your wallet and smartphone. Plus, the environment is spotless, and the staff are friendly and helpful when you need directions.
It’s not the biggest museum, so you can leisurely cover everything in about an hour. There’s a souvenir shop selling tote bags, magnets, and more, so you can take home a little piece of your visit.
Pro tip: If you get hungry, there’s a café inside for a quick snack and drink break during your visit.
Illusion 3D Art Museum
— Media from illusion.3dartmuseum and illusion.3dartdp
Address: Lot 4.01 – 4.03, 2nd Floor, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, City Centre
Opening hours: Daily 10 AM to 9 PM
Contact number: +60320221613
Fee:
- Adult: RM 34 (Malaysian), RM50 (Non Malaysian)
- Child/Student/Senior Citizen: RM17 (Malaysian), RM25 (Non-Malaysian)
The Illusion 3D Art Museum is an absolute blast, especially if you’re into taking fun pictures. The art features all sorts of famous characters and scenes, as well as local-inspired pieces that make for great photo ops.
Also, the staff are super helpful, even offering to snap photos for you in front of the artwork. It’s a fun spot for families, couples, or groups of friends—you’ll easily spend a couple of hours exploring and snapping photos.
The museum is conveniently located behind Central Market, so it’s easy to reach via the Pasar Seni LRT/MRT stations. We had a great time, and it’s definitely worth the trip if you enjoy interactive art.
Pro tip: In addition to the illusion photos, you can level up your experience by opting for a 3D video featuring lifelike animals or dinosaurs! Just ask the staff about the additional cost—it’s a fun add-on that takes your visit to a whole new dimension!
Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
— Media from Chenyan.eth
Address: Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana
Opening hours: Daily 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Contact number: +60320927070
Fee:
- Adults: RM20
- Students (with valid ID): RM10
- Senior citizens (Malaysian): RM10
- Senior citizens (non-Malaysian): RM20
- Children under 6: Free
Payments accepted via cash or card.
The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is a gem for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. The museum itself is breathtaking, with its serene atmosphere and beautifully curated exhibits.
You’ll find everything from intricate Islamic calligraphy and textiles to architectural models of mosques. The domes are stunning, and the model recreations of mosques around the world are definite highlights.
Each exhibit is thoughtfully presented, making it easy to appreciate the rich heritage on display. Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring—you’ll want to soak it all in.
Pro tip: There’s a souvenir shop and restaurant inside, so you can grab a keepsake or a meal during your visit.
Orang Asli Crafts Museum
— Media from Jun619
Address: Orang Asli Crafts Museum, Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jalan Damansara
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +60322826255
Fee:
- Citizens: RM2
- Elderly and People with Disabilities (OKU): RM1
- Children aged 12 and under (citizens): Free
- High School Students (in uniform, citizens): Free
- High School Students (not in uniform, citizens): RM2
- Members of the International Council of Museums (ICOM): Free
- Non-citizens: RM5
- Children aged 6 to 12 years (non-citizens): RM2
- Children under 6 years old (non-citizens): Free
The Orang Asli Crafts Museum offers a fascinating look into the traditional crafts of Malaysia’s indigenous communities. Although the museum is small, it’s packed with intricate beadwork, wood carvings, and textiles that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Orang Asli.
Each item is thoughtfully explained, with panels providing insight into the cultural significance of these crafts and the tribes that made them. Located within the National Museum compound, it’s a great addition to any day exploring Kuala Lumpur’s cultural spots.
Pro tip: Parking can be tricky, so consider taking the train and walking around the area to visit other nearby attractions like the National Museum.
Art House Gallery Museum of Ethnic Arts
— Media from Nghg.chanh
Address: Lot 3.04 & 3.05, Level 2, Annexe Building, Central Market
Opening hours: Daily 11 AM to 7 PM
Contact number: +60123886868
Fee: RM5
This private museum is a treasure trove of cultural artefacts from across Asia. The collection ranges from Portuguese and Chinese relics to bold carvings from Papua New Guinea, offering a unique glimpse into diverse global cultures.
The museum’s owner is a wealth of knowledge, enthusiastically sharing stories about the origins and significance of the exhibits. While the lack of detailed explanations can leave some items a bit mysterious, it adds to the charm of exploring this eclectic space.
Pro tip: About half of the items are for sale, so if something catches your eye, you can take a piece of this fascinating collection home.
Museum of Asian Art
— Media from Malaysiancraftcouncil and shamsul.amin
Address: Jalan Ilmu, Wilayah Persekutuan
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 12:15 PM, 2:45 PM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
Contact number: +60379673805
Fee: Free
Nestled in Universiti Malaya, the Museum of Asian Art offers an intimate and enriching experience for visitors. The exhibits showcase a range of Asian cultural treasures, including porcelain pieces that are over 1,000 years old.
It’s a quiet spot perfect for a quick visit, with helpful staff ready to answer any questions. The museum’s small size makes it manageable to see everything in about an hour, but it’s packed with history and beauty.
Pro tip: Bring a jacket—it can get pretty cold inside.
Ilham Gallery
— Media from Ilhamgallerykl
Address: Levels 3 and 5, Ilham Tower, 8, Lrg Binjai
Opening hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +60321813003
Fee: Free
Ilham Gallery is a fantastic spot for anyone interested in contemporary art, offering an enriching dive into Malaysia’s vibrant art scene. The exhibitions, though not large, are packed with thought-provoking pieces from both local and international artists.
The gallery’s peaceful ambiance and well-lit layout make it easy to focus on the art and fully appreciate each piece. One standout exhibit on the third floor featured creative animations based on animal figures, which was both clever and captivating.
Pro tip: Be sure to stop by the gallery shop—they have plenty of cute souvenirs and unique art-related gifts.
Rissim Contemporary
— Media from jd_chang
Address: 30-2, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – Closed
- Sunday, Friday, and Saturday – 12 PM to 7 PM
Contact number: +60193536484
Fee: Free
Rissim Contemporary is like a hidden speakeasy for art lovers—tucked away behind toilet stairs! If you’re lucky you might even meet the artists.
The space itself is small but packed with creativity, featuring the work of two artists and around 20 pieces that are bursting with colour, nostalgia, and fresh vibes. It’s an intimate setting that feels both personal and artistic, making it a unique spot to explore.
While the one-room setup might sound minimal, it’s filled with enough energy to keep you engaged. Don’t be fooled by its low-key location—it’s a vibrant gallery that’s well worth the visit.
Pro tip: Bring your camera! The ambiance is perfect for some great photos, but remember, you’re there for the art, not just the pics.
KL City Art Gallery & Cafe
— Media from klcityartgallery
Address: Wisma YPR 1, Lorong Kapar, Off, Jln Syed Putra, Taman Seputeh
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 6:30 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Contact number: +60133947717
Fee: Free
KL City Art Gallery is a small yet charming space that showcases local art, with a collection that rotates from time to time. Located in Wisma YPR, it’s a cozy spot to enjoy some creative works, followed by a visit to the attached cafe for a quick bite or coffee.
The staff is super friendly, making the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable. Though the gallery is not huge, it’s perfect for a quick visit to appreciate some local talent and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Pro tip: Don’t confuse it with the “I Love KL Statue” you’ve seen online—that’s at Merdeka Square, not here!
Qing Gallery
— Media from Qinggallerykl
Address: Waterfront Carpark 2, Desa Parkcity
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Contact number: +60167773229
Fee: Rates available upon booking
Qing Gallery is a beautifully organised contemporary art space that’s perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the world of art. It’s a quiet, peaceful environment, allowing you to take your time exploring the thoughtfully curated pieces.
The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable, offering insights into the stories behind each artwork. Whether you’re new to art or a seasoned enthusiast, this space is designed to inspire and open your mind to new perspectives.
Pro tip: Make sure to register here before visiting, as they limit the number of guests to keep the experience intimate and focused.
TAKSU Kuala Lumpur
— Media from taksu.galleries
Address: 17, Jalan Pawang, Kampung Datuk Keramat
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday, Monday, and Public Holidays – Closed
Contact number: +60342514396
TAKSU Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant art gallery that regularly hosts solo exhibitions by talented local and international artists. If you’re looking to add some unique artwork to your home or workspace, this gallery is the place to go.
The exhibits change frequently, keeping the space fresh and exciting, and it’s also available to rent for small private events. TAKSU has a solid online presence where you can browse their collection of works for sale, making it easy to explore their offerings even from afar.
Pro tip: The gallery is in a residential area, so make an appointment beforehand and give them a call when you arrive to ring you in.
Collect Art World – Gallery in KL
— Media from collect_art_world
Address: 282, Lrg Maarof, Bangsar
Opening hours:
- Sunday and Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 5 PM
By appointment only.
Contact number: +60174100448
Fee: Rates available upon inquiry
Collect Art World is a hidden gem in Bangsar that’s perfect for art lovers. The gallery showcases interesting pieces by artists from around the globe, and every exhibition feels fresh and engaging.
The space is small and intimate, which makes for a personal and immersive art experience. They regularly host fantastic events like artist talks and workshops, adding even more value to your visit.
Plus, the gallery is beautifully curated, and the vibe is always warm and welcoming. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just curious, this is a place you won’t want to miss.
Pro tip: Need some expert art advice? You can get personalised help from their advisors anytime by filling out a form on their website.
Plus, check out their website to see the featured artist of the month!