A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Kuala Lumpur for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

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 Koh Tarutao and Kuala Lumpur. 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a remote, beautiful, and undiscovered island. Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a modern, welcoming, and friendly city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Kuala Lumpur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kuala Lumpur is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and hiking. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. Also, Kuala Lumpur is famous for The Petronas Twin Towers. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Koh Tarutao different from Kuala Lumpur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kuala Lumpur has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a resort destination.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Kuala Lumpur is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Koh Tarutao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Kuala Lumpur specifically to go shopping. 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.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Koh Tarutao and Kuala Lumpur.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kuala Lumpur. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Kuala Lumpur both excellent destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Couples visit Kuala Lumpur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kuala Lumpur. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with 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.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Kuala Lumpur can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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 generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable destination. 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.

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Kuala Lumpur or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

In either Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Koh Tarutao because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 1-5 days is enough time in Kuala Lumpur.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Koh Tarutao. 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 Koh Tarutao. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur 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 Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this beautiful island 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Kuala Lumpur is a modern big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Kuala Lumpur is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

Koh Tarutao 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Kuala Lumpur, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao Expensive? and Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur in the Summer?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Kuala Lumpur. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur in the Autumn?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Koh Tarutao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kuala Lumpur. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Kuala Lumpur. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Kuala Lumpur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Kuala Lumpur. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in April than Kuala Lumpur. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the spring, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Kuala Lumpur and Koh Tarutao