THERE are many ways to enjoy Kuala Lumpur and the best thing is, there are lots of things you can do for free. Here are our top three free things to do in the capital city.

1. Visit Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC

A visit to KL is not complete without a stopover at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC. You needn't spend a ringgit there at all if you don't want to, although that may be often prove difficult in the shopping and entertainment haven of Suria KLCC.

But still, there are three things that won't cost you a sen.

THE SKY BRIDGE: With its unique arch support, the 58.4m double-deck sky bridge is probably the "hottest-selling" place in the city. Visitors start queuing for free tickets from as early as 5.30am and in less than four hours, all the 1,600 ticket holders have all gone up to the bridge. Tours are done every 15 minutes with only 20 persons allowed in at any one time. Standing at 170m above street level at level 41 and 42, the sky bridge offers a magnificent view of the city centre. Details, call 03-2331 4444.

KLCC PARK: Suria KLCC is set within a 50-acre tropical landscape. The park is unique in both theme and concept. Though it has 1,900 indigenous trees and palms representing 74 species, the most interesting parts are the water features, especially the Lake Symphony and the Water Park.

Made of two water fountains, the Lake Symphony is programmed to provide 150 magical dramatic animations. For young visitors, the Water Park is the place to go as there are interesting play structures and a wading pool. It sits next to a two-acre children's playground.

GALERI PETRONAS: Petronas set up the gallery to promote the development and preservation of art in Malaysia. It provides an avenue for artists, both Malaysian and foreign. The gallery holds regular showcases. Details, call 03-2051 7770.

2. KL Craft Complex

As a centre for local crafts, the complex houses a comprehensive collection of crafts from all over the country. There are galleries that showcase crafts based on materials and make. There's also a Crafts Museum that displays the history and craft heritage. An art colony there allows you to mingle with resident artists who are more than willing to share their ideas with you. For guided tours, call 03-2161 1470/80.

3. KL Lake Gardens

There's no entrance fee or guide needed to explore KL's best green lung - the KL Lake Gardens. Located right in the city and surrounded by iconic landmarks like the National Mosque and Islamic Art Museum, the gardens are made of a string of other nice places to visit or stroll through.

The city's oldest lake garden incorporates the National Monument, Deer Park, Butterfly Park, Bird Park, Orchid Garden and Hibiscus Garden. Some of these impose an entrance fee but if you don't want to fork out any money, you can stroll elsewhere. There's a tram service but it's only available on weekends at RM1 a ride.

-New Straits Times