Chinatown Hostel by Mingle

Chinatown Hostel by Mingle is one of the most popular budget places to stay in Kuala Lumpur and a good choice for backpackers and solo travellers who want a sociable base in the old city. It occupies a 1900s colonial building on Jalan Sultan, in the heart of Chinatown, and combines dorms and private rooms with a rooftop, a cafe and a packed calendar of activities.

The rooftop is the hostel's signature space, with an in-house bar and a jacuzzi where guests gather in the evening; guests receive a discount on drinks at the bar. Downstairs, the on-site cafe serves brunch, lunch and dinner, again with a guest discount, and a breakfast menu is available for a modest charge. Free in-house roasted coffee is served every morning, and there is a pantry for making your own snacks. Practical facilities include free security lockers, luggage storage, adaptors, free WiFi and a coworking space for anyone who needs to work on the road.

Dorm beds come with privacy curtains, and each has its own light and power outlet, which makes a real difference in shared rooms. Female-only dorms are available, and private rooms suit couples or travellers who want their own space while still enjoying the social side. The hostel is known for its lively atmosphere, and the activity programme is a big part of that: pub crawls and hidden bar nights, trips to waterfalls and Batu Caves, city walks, yoga, salsa, movie nights, a coffee roasting class and community dinners. Aqua aerobics sessions are held at the Mingle Lekiu pool.

Check-in runs from 3pm to midnight and check-out is by noon. Because the hostel is social, it is best suited to travellers who enjoy meeting people; if you prefer quiet nights, choose a private room or a calmer hotel. Book early for weekends and holiday periods, when beds fill quickly.

The location is excellent for exploring on foot. Jalan Sultan is home to two Michelin Bib Gourmand favourites, Nam Heong Chicken Rice and Lai Foong Lala Noodles, and Petaling Street, Kwai Chai Hong, Central Market and the Sri Mahamariamman Temple are all a few minutes away. Merdeka Square and Masjid Jamek are within walking distance, and Pasar Seni and Plaza Rakyat stations are close by for trips to KLCC, Bukit Bintang and KL Sentral.