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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

Malaysia is a popular travel destination but when many visitors think about where to visit in Malaysia, they settle for the big city of Kuala Lumpur and the beautiful beaches in Penang and on the island of Langkawi, leaving so many other best cities in Malaysia to visit.

The reality is that there are so many more Malaysia tourist attractions to see. Malaysia spans several large and small islands, and the truth is there are many answers to the question “where to travel in Malaysia”!

A diverse country, there are so many wonderful and attractive places in Malaysia. Not just in its pristine beaches and islands but nature parks too. You could spend months visiting Malaysia tourist places and not cover it all.

What’s more, Malaysia is very budget friendly, the locals are warm and welcoming and the food is inexpensive and delicious.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

So, if you’re wondering Malaysia – where to travel or perhaps you need more encouragement to visit Malaysia? Read on for our list of 21 of the best places to go in Malaysia. This is our ultimate list of the very best Malaysia travel destinations and you’re sure to find some must see places in Malaysia that are perfect for your vacation!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

A list of the best places to visit in Malaysia would be incomplete without the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Top on my list of Malaysia attractions 2024, KL is often the first place people think of when planning where to go in Malaysia, and regularly features as one of the top cities to visit in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia, the major financial center of a melting pot of different cultures. This makes it one of the most exciting cities in Malaysia and shouldn’t be missed.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur include a trip to the world famous Petronas Towers if you’re looking for the best place to visit in KL, taking a trip to the ancient Hindu temple at the Batu Caves, sampling some of the most amazing street food, visiting markets, mosques, theme parks, shopping and much more.

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and you’ll likely struggle to fit in all the Kuala Lumpur tourist spots in a single visit. When it comes to the Malaysia best places to visit, Kuala Lumpur is a very strong contender, and it’s also one of the most fun places to visit in Malaysia.

If you’re wondering where to start with where to travel in Malaysia 2024, then you can do no wrong with starting in KL.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Lumpur has two major airports – KLIA and KLIA2. It is also well connected to the rest of Malaysia by bus and train.

Top Attraction to visit: The Petronas Towers are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia.

Top place to stay:  Berjaya Times Square Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

One of the top travel destinations Malaysia has (especially for beach vacations), Langkawi is a Malaysia must see and many would argue the best island in Malaysia. Not only a beautiful destination with great beaches and attractions, there’s something to suit everyone in Langkawi on either ends of the main island.

When you picture best places to visit Malaysia in your head, it’s very likely the image you see is of Langkawi. This island is definitely one of the options for best place for vacation in Malaysia.

Langkawi is actually an archipelago but the main island offers a range of different locations to visit and stay. Pantai Cenang is one of the most popular beach destinations and home to Underwater World. Other more peaceful destinations are dotted throughout the island. If you love beaches, Langkawi is definitely one of the places to visit in Malaysia that you’ll want to consider. 

Temurun Waterfall is another popular attraction in Langkawi, as well as the Langkawi Cable Car which takes you to the peak of Gunung Machinchang where you’ll find restaurants, shops and other attractions. This is the best way to see that this option of Malaysia best places is not just about gorgeous beaches but also gorgeous jungle interior.

Getting to Langkawi: The best way to get to Langkawi is to fly. Flights leave multiple times daily from Kuala Lumpur and other cities.

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

Top place to stay:  Ritz-Carlton Langkawi – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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There are three different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food, nightlife or off the beaten track places.

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Another popular Malaysia tourist spots and top destinations in Malaysia is the state of Penang. This state offers many Malaysia places to visit for both first time and return visitors as it’s quite diverse, and it’s one of my personal favourite places to go Malaysia.

There’s a multicultural mix of influences and plenty of beaches, interesting architecture and affordable resort style accommodation. It’s also one of the best places in Malaysia to eat, offering some of the best cheap food.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Malaysia, you will love the array of things to do and see in Penang. Penang is home to important and culturally significant temples like Lok Si Temple, as well as British colonial leftovers like Fort Cornwallis, dating back to the 18th century when Penang was occupied by the British, as well as the historic George Town.

There’s so much to see and do in Penang, making it one of the top places in Malaysia and somewhere you should add to your list of what to see in Malaysia!

In fact, the combination of great food, interesting heritage, beaches and ease of getting here and around makes Penang my personal pick for the best place in Malaysia and definitely one of the best holiday places in Malaysia. If you’re new to Malaysia, best place to travel options are plenty here in Penang.

Getting to Penang: You can get to Penang by train, bus or plane. From Kuala Lumpur, flying is the quickest way to get there.

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

Top place to stay:  Shangri La Rasa Sayang – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

Malaysia is well known as the home of the orangutan, and another thing visitors often include on their list of what to do in Malaysia is seeing orangutans.

One of the famous places in Malaysia where you can see orangutans is Bukit Merah.

Located just outside of Taiping, the town is surrounded by a lake. Its main attraction is Orang Utan Island – a sustainable tourist destination and one of the top things to see in Malaysia. The town is home to another sustainable attraction, the EcoPark – an enclosure home to many native and rare animals.

When you’re comparing Malaysia vacation destinations, know that this isn’t a cheap destination to visit, but this eco-tourist destination puts what they receive back into maintaining the environment, so it’s a place you can feel good about visiting. It really is the best place to see the orangutan in peninsular Malaysia.

If you want to support ecotourism and want to have a once in a lifetime experience, then Bukit Merah is definitely one of the best place to vacation in Malaysia options for you.

Getting to Bukit Merah: The best way to get there is to drive from Taiping. There are also buses. It’s also possible to day trip here from Penang.

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

Top place to stay:  Bukit Merah Laketown Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Kuala Kangsar

Kuala Kangsar is a royal capital, and there is some amazing architecture to see and explore. When we visited, we found the city quiet yet still with a commanding presence owing to the grand buildings. These buildings are why it’s on this Malaysia place to visit list.

This is a town of palaces, and there are plenty to view like the Istana Iskandariah, the Istana Kenangan (constructed of wood), and the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery.

If you want to go and explore somewhere off the beaten tourist track, then this best destination Malaysia might just be right up your street.

The major draw-card of this town is definitely the pretty architecture. There aren’t many attractions, but it does make a nice Malaysia tourist destination for a day trip.

Getting to Kuala Kangsar: You can get there by car, train and bus. The journey takes about an hour from Ipoh.

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

Top place to stay:  The Shop Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

When we visited Ipoh, we didn’t know what to expect. We ended up loving it. Ipoh is the state capital of Perak and a fantastic destination for a short getaway with plenty of interesting places in Malaysia located in this city. Ipoh is definitely one of the nice places to visit in Malaysia which sees fewer tourists (a good thing in our view!).

If you’re idea of a Malaysia best place to visit includes fantastic food, interesting attractions and lots of fun then visit Ipoh.

There’s the unfinished Kellie’s Castle to explore, Tempurung Cave, the popular Sunway Lost World Of Tambun (great for families) and much more. The Old Town area is a fabulous place to walk around with cute alleyways and numerous street art to find and enjoy.

Plus, there’s Ipoh’s famous white coffee – a must try.

Ipoh is also a gateway to the Cameron Highlands – coming up next. If you’re wondering where to go in Malaysia for short trip, or just looking for an interesting place to visit in Malaysia, Ipoh is somewhere to consider.

Getting to Ipoh: The best way to get there is train, bus or hiring a car. You can also fly.

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

Top place to stay:  Regalodge – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.

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Cameron Highlands

To escape the city life in Kuala Lumpur and the heat at lower altitudes, Malaysians go to The Cameron Highlands. It’s easy to see why and be tempted to join them if you’re looking for the best place for holiday in Malaysia to escape the heat and see something of the interiors of Malaysia too.

This best place to go in Malaysia option is beautiful. Its located high in the hills with rolling tea plantations, places of worship, museums and more. It’s also home to the highest point in Malaysia – Gunung Brinchang , as well as many beautiful hiking trails.

The higher altitude makes it a great place to cool down in tropical Malaysia, and with plenty of places to eat, drink and stay to suit all different budgets, it makes for a great place to see in Malaysia. If you love hill stations and greenery, the Cameron Highlands are definitely one of the best places in Malaysia to visit for your trip.

Getting to Cameron Highlands: The best way to get to the Cameron Highlands is by bus or hiring a car. Top Attraction to visit:   Boh Tea Plantation

Top place to stay: Nova Highlands Resort and Residence – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a popular destination from Kuala Lumpur for a beach getaway. There are plenty of top quality resorts with particularity good accommodation for families. We found the Avillion Port Dickson to be the best resort in Malaysia for family visits to Port Dickson or the Grand Lexis if you want your own pool. If you’re looking for a beach holiday within easy access of KL and fun places in Malaysia by the beach, PD is a place to consider visiting.

The resorts are generally outside of the main town, which is small but does have some nice restaurants and shops. There’s also some pretty beaches, but many of these are private.

There’s not a huge range of Malaysia attractions in Port Dickson, but there is the Tanjung Tuan lookout. Time is best spent here at one of the great resorts or the beach. This is my pick of the Malaysia destinations if you want some great priced resort time.

Getting to Port Dickson: You can get there by bus, taxi or rental car. It is about 60km from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

Top place to stay: Lexis Hibiscus – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

One of the other best places to see in Malaysia is Melaka. This is also one of the top historical places in Malaysia to visit, and a contender for the best city in Malaysia if you like your cities bite-sized, navigable and full of history. Malacca is also home to some of the main tourist attractions in Malaysia when it comes to cultural history.

This is a very pretty city and one of Malaysia points of interest for those interested in theology. The city is dotted with numerous churches like St Paul’s church, as well as temples and mosques, thanks to its rich cultural past.

There are also numerous other heritage sites around the city. What’s more, it’s a super easy place to explore on foot or on a trishaw.

Two of the major attractions in Melaka are the A Famosa Resort and the Dutch town of Stadthuys. Jonker Street is where you’ll find many of the main attractions. You’ll also want to visit Melaka River and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Melaka isn’t just a great place to visit but also makes top 10 places to visit in Malaysia lists because it is so easy to get here. It’s very accessible from Kuala Lumpur or Kuala Lumpur International Airport and you can day trip here from either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Getting to Melaka: You can get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

Top place to stay:  Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is one of the easy places to go in Malaysia from Singapore as it’s just across the border.

While not necessarily being one of the Malaysia holiday destinations, it’s still worth a visit, particularly if you are in Singapore. The city offers visitors several attractions including a mix of museums and natural landmarks like the Gunung Ledang National Park and Gunung Lambak.

For families with young kids, there’s also the famous Legoland which makes the city one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family.

Other attractions include the traditional Kukup Fishing Village. You can also explore the shops and restaurants at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

As the city is also just across the border from Singapore and one of the practical places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore, it’s one of the best place to visit in Malaysia for a one day trip.

Getting to Johor Bahru: Get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

Top place to stay:  Hotel Jen – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

Tioman Island was once named one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Despite being a somewhat popular nice place to visit in Malaysia, it’s easy to feel like you have escaped the world here. It’s relatively untouched and makes for a wonderful destination to visit in Malaysia. And the beaches are some of the best in Malaysia.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs which make it great for scuba diving. Must see spots include Air Batang (or ABC Beach), one of the main settlements on the island, where you can find cheap beer and meals, and J uara beach.

The Island is also great for hiking. You’ll want to visit Aash Waterfall, hike across the island from west to east , as well as visit Paya beach.

If you are looking for Malaysia places to go which are not too hard to get to but feel like you are away from it all, consider Tioman.

Getting to Tioman Island: You can get to Tioman Island by ferry or plane. Flights leave from both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Click here for full details.

Top Attraction to visit: Air Batang is the main village on the island.

Top place to stay:  Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

You may have noticed a theme – Malaysia is home to a vast array of beautiful national parks. Taman Negara National Park holds the title as Malaysia’s largest national park. This 130 million year old rainforest is home to a huge array of local plants and animals and offers plenty of short and long hikes. It’s definitely worth adding to your Malaysia where to go list.

Once inside the park, there are several attractions to visit including Lata Berkoh , which is a short boat ride and a place where you can swim. You can also opt to climb Bukit Teresek, a 334m high hill. The Canopy Walkway is also a must do – and the longest like it in the world.

Note that the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is between February and September each year. If you are visiting at this time of year, definitely go to this Malaysia best place.

Getting to Taman Negara National Park: You can get there by train, taxi or car. It is a 3.5 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

Top place to stay:  Mutiara Taman Negara Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Speaking of tourist places in Malaysia, have you considered Cherating if you’re planning to visit Malaysia 2024? This laid back coastal town has some lovely beach resorts and guest houses, as well as Club Med is also located here – arguably the best beach resort in Malaysia.

While the main attraction in Cherating are the beaches and resorts, there’s other Malaysia interesting places to visit like the nearby Turtle Island. This island is free to enter but you need to pay for the boat there. It helps nurture endangered turtles in an environment where they can thrive.

The beaches in Cherating aren’t as pretty as other parts of Malaysia (apart from the stunning option at Club Med) but the resorts are great and many are well priced. It’s a great place for a short trip in Malaysia.

Getting to Cherating: The best way to get there is by bus or hire car. You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu, a city on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the best places Malaysia if you love good food, friendly locals and an interesting range of low key attractions, and you’re looking for places to visit in East Malaysia.

It’s also the jumping off point for beautiful Redang Island (coming up next as it’s also a best place to visit Malaysia).

There is an interesting Chinatown to visit complete with street art, some great museums and some magnificent mosques. What really stood out to me when I visited this best destination in Malaysia, however, is the friendly locals. I have never felt so welcome anywhere in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuala Terengganu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur but it’s also a major bus hub.

Top Attraction to visit : Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque (or Floating Mosque)

Top place to stay:  Grand Puteri Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices.

Click here to see our full guide to Kuala Terengganu..

Redang Island

A list of the most beautiful places in Malaysia often includes Redang Island, and it’s easy to see why. This is most simply, the most beautiful place I have ever visited, and unsurprisingly Redang was my best trip in Malaysia of recent years. 

Redang Island is a mix of pleasant resorts and pristine, white sand beaches. It makes for the perfect relaxing getaway and best tourist place in Malaysia. Several of my memories of the best travel in Malaysia are from here.

The main beach is Pasir Panjang (or Long Beach) and, located on the east side of the island, it is one of the popular holiday places in Malaysia for those visiting the east of the country.

While there’s not a whole lot to see if you aren’t a nature lover nor is there a big nightlife scene like some other islands in Malaysia, this is a best place to travel in Malaysia for a calm stay and for cheap, beautiful and easy snorkeling. If you love islands and beaches, then Redang is definitely one of the best place to travel in Malaysia!

Getting to Redang Island: You can get there by plane or boat. Several flights leave daily from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

Top place to stay:  The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

An artificial lake located in Terengganu, Kenyir lake is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. This lesser known attraction in Malaysia has been developed as an ecotourism destination and the lake provides hydroelectric power to the region.

It’s also one of the top inland fishing destinations in Malaysia and a gateway to Taman Negara.

This interesting place in Malaysia has several attractions around the like the caves of Bewah and Taat as well as Anglers Heaven, jungle walks and waterfalls. Lake Kenyir Resort is also a pleasant place to stay.

To access the actual lake you’ll need to have a boat to access the lake which you can organise with a tour operator easily. A visit to this Malaysia travel place is the perfect way to see a different slice of Malaysia while enjoying nature.

Getting to Kenyir Lake: A 50 minute drive from Kuala Terengganu Airport. You can fly there from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

Top place to stay:  Lake Kenyir Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Perhentian Islands

Less explored than Langkawi, but rated by many as the best holiday destination in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands offer serene beaches with crystal clear water.

These islands are a travel place in Malaysia that you won’t want to leave, and although there are no museums or culturally significant monuments, there are pristine beaches, crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs at the appropriately named Coral Bay with sunsets that’ll linger in your memories for a while after you do have to go home.

This is the ultimate place to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Malaysia. You can also go jungle trekking and do activities like kayaking.

Although there’s not much else to do on the island, its natural environment shows the best of Malaysia and it’s one of my personal best places to travel in Malaysia.

Getting to Perhentian Islands : You will need to take a boat there. The main ferry terminal is in Kuala Besut. Instructions are here.

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

Top place to stay:  Perhentian Island Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan, a conservative city on the east coast of the mainland.

This one of the Malaysia cities to visit is relatively laid back with some interesting places to visit like Istana Jahar, a 19th century royal residence, Istana Balai Besar or Grand Palace, as well as other museums and mosques.

There’s also a vibrant night market and street art scene. While Kota Bharu may not make it to top of the list for the top place to visit in Malaysia, spending a few hours or a couple of days in Kota Bharu allows you to see laid back Malaysian life – without the tourists – and it’s a useful stop over if you’re heading to Kuala Besut for the Perhentian islands as well.

The one of the best cities to visit in Malaysia offers visitors a chance to experience a different pace of life and to see the cultural heart of Malaysia. As such, it’s one of the interesting places to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kota Bharu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there, but you can also get there by train, bus and car.

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

Top place to stay:  Hotel Perdana – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

Kuching, also known as Cat City, is a port city located on the island of Borneo. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarawak, Borneo. The city is interesting yet still one of the more relaxing places to visit in Malaysia, so if you want to head to Borneo, why not give Kuching a try?

This charming city is abound with museums like the Sarawak Museum and Cat Museum (a must visit in Cat City!) and places of worship like Tua Pek Kong Temple.

It’s also located near some beautiful national parks like Bako National Park as well as Kubah National Park.

The range of activities to visit in the surrounds and the lovely riverfront area makes Kucking my pick for the best city to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuching: The best way to get to Kuching is to fly. Several budget airlines fly here.

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

Top place to stay:  Hilton Kuching – Click here to see the latest prices

Kota Kinabalu

A quiet destination in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a pretty city on our Malaysia tourist places list offering visitors several attractions and activities.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the top places to visit in Malaysia to go island hopping – but think relaxation, not partying. Gaya Island is one of the most popular, as well as Manukan which is one of the islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands great for jungle trekking and diving.

In town, you can climb to Signal Hill Observatory to soak in the city sites and do some shopping at the local markets.

The access to beautiful beaches as well as nature treks make Kota Kinabalu a top destination in Malaysia Borneo. If you’re looking for the best place Malaysia to stop over en route to trekking and jungle exploration, consider stopping off in Kota Kinabalu.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu: The easiest way to get to Kota Kinabalu is by flying.

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

Top place to stay:  Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Sandakan is a small option of where to go Malaysia with few attractions inside the town itself. However, it has huge historical significance from World War II. The Sandakan Memorial Park pays homage to this dark part of history.

The small museum and accompanying walk is dedicated to the prisoners of war from the Borneo Death Marches and commemorates those who lost their lives. This makes for a confronting memorial. While it’s not the most obvious of vacation places in Malaysia, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in history or are visiting to see the graves and memorials here.

The city itself has plenty of cheap markets and places to eat, and is a gateway to other significant attractions like the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, one of Malaysia famous places. Here, you can get up close to rescued orangutans who are being rehabilitated. There’s also the Turtle Islands Park.

Getting to Sandakan: Located on Borneo, the quickest way to get there is to fly.

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

Top place to stay:  Sabah Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices

Looking for the easiest way to get around Malaysia to these great places? Find our long-distance taxi service here . It can take you door-to-door anywhere in peninsular Malaysia.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

We hope you found somewhere just right for you in this Malaysia tourism place list. Read more about other destinations in Malaysia or find the best time to visit Malaysia here or the best things to do here. Looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 2 – 4 days? Read our itineraries here  and find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here.

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

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9 of the best places to go in Malaysia

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

From the top food destinations to getting away from it all in the highlands, here are the best places to visit in Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Split across two different land masses, Malaysia instantly poses a dilemma. Do you visit Peninsular Malaysia, which borders Thailand to the north and Singapore down south? Or do you head across the South China Sea to Borneo – a jungly island shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and the Kingdom of Brunei? 

Good news: both sides of Malaysia have soft sandy beaches and snorkel-worthy coves, though Malaysian Borneo has superior access to marine life. Borneo is also the best pick for jungle trekking, though you can explore national parks and hilly hiking terrain across Peninsular Malaysia, too – like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands . Many parks and beauty spots are almost on top of the cities, making Peninsular Malaysia an excellent choice for families who want to spot hornbills by day, but bed down in modern comfort.

Peninsular Malaysia is also where you'll find the buzz. Gastronomes, shoppers and museum hounds can enjoy their fill in cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur , food-forward Penang  and cultural jigsaw Melaka . Plot your own path with a little help from our list of the best places to go in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the best place to go for a whirlwind tour 

If you have grand ambitions but limited time, head to Kuala Lumpur. Parts of KL feel like a quintessential capital city, with chic shopping malls (like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC), a competitive cocktail scene and a sci-fi skyline – the Petronas Towers rise up like twin rockets, while Menara KL glows like a futuristic lighthouse (head to the 300m-high (984ft) sky deck for an expansive view). But KL offers more than fast-paced urban commotion. 

KL's city swagger comes accompanied by nature and history, courtesy of time-worn temples, kopitiam (traditional coffee houses), and rainforests almost side by side with high-rise buildings. Places of worship like scarlet multi-story Thean Hou Temple and ornate Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad inspire contemplation and wonder.

If you're looking for places to visit in Malaysia in three days, KL has day-trip potential, too. Listen to birdsong at KL Forest Eco Park , picnic by a waterfall at the Forest Research Institute ; and less than an hour's drive away is Mah Meri Cultural Village , where you can immerse yourself in indigenous Orang Asli art and history. 

Encounter pristine nature in Gunung Mulu National Park

Remarkably rocky, tremendously old and a theater for eye-popping natural spectacles, Gunung Mulu is arguably Malaysia's best national park. Between Gunung Mulu (2376m/7795ft) and Gunung Api (1710m/5610ft) are old-growth forests, limestone pinnacles and deep caves, home to millions of bats that take flight every twilight – watch the drama unfold at Deer Cave . 

Where to begin exploring? DIY experiences include the Mulu canopy walk (a suspended ladder through the treetops), an easy ramble to Paku Waterfall or the Botanical Heritage Loop Trail.

If you have tough hiking boots and even tougher endurance, book a guide and tackle the three-day Pinnacles trek. The climbs are steep, but you'll be rewarded by panoramic views of dense jungle spiked with fins of limestone. 

Penang is the top destination for food, drink and sensory pleasures

Penang's foodie status is uncontested. Travelers flock from across Malaysia (and beyond) to experience Gurney Drive's seafood restaurants, slurp Penang laksa at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and follow their noses to barbecued seafood at the Chew Jetties . But even beyond the sizzle of char kway teow (rice noodles with prawns, eggs and more), Penang can tickle your senses.

Inhale the tang of 500 herbs and aromatics at Tropical Spice Garden . Listen to the chatter of macaques at Penang National Park , the country's smallest. Gawp at the architectural splendor of Khoo Kongsi clubhouse and the intricately carved Pinang Peranakan Mansion . Alternatively, get bang up to date with contemporary art at Hin Bus Station .  

Tip for timing your visit: Penang is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in December, when the west coast enjoys good weather while winds batter the east. 

Kuching is the perfect urban-jungle mash-up

We hear the dilemma: you want access to nature without committing to a tent in the jungle. And you want to experience the buzz of a Malaysian city without the high-octane hubbub of KL. Kuching , the capital of Bornean state Sarawak, is your happy medium. 

Kuching is a launchpad to Borneo's glorious wilderness. From here, you can easily meet orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre , or day-trip to Bako National Park to look for bearded pigs and proboscis monkeys.

But before stepping beyond the city limits, let Kuching work its charms. Stroll the waterfront promenade, where you can see views of Kuching's architectural treasury: the Astana (palace) and its trim gardens, the State Assembly  and the swirling Darul Hana pedestrian bridge. Admire Chinese temples, browse the weekend market and learn the history of Sarawak's White Rajas at hilltop Fort Margherita . 

Pulau Perhentian are the best islands for sunshine and snorkeling

Mentioning the Perhentians to Malaysian people elicits a longing smile. The Perhentian Islands are synonymous with brilliant beaches and marine life, plus there's a party scene to keep beach bums dancing until the wee hours. The trick is to find your perfect beach.

Searching for spectacular sunsets? Head to Coral Bay. Green turtles? The turtle project on Main Beach. Late-night beach parties? Long Beach. There are numerous beaches where you can go sea kayaking and snorkel among parrotfish and giant clams; hardened divers can go deeper to visit wrecks and commune with clownfish, reef sharks and stingrays. Time your visit for dry season between March and October (but avoid July, when crowds reach their peak).  

Melaka is a cultural smorgasbord 

Nowhere in Malaysia is the tumult of past colonial rule felt more strongly than in port cities, and Melaka is emblematic of this cultural collision.

Melaka is perched on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast, and successive colonists (Portuguese, Dutch, British) vied for control over this trading port and maritime waystation. Today, Melaka harbors a number of variegated food cultures, a hodge-podge of architecture and alluring night markets.

Glimpse Portuguese history by clambering aboard the replica Flor de la Mar ship and sampling baked fish at Medan Portugis. Time-travel forward to Dutch rule by touring the Stadthuys (now a history museum) and salmon-pink Christ Church . Other cornerstones of history are "China Hill" cemetery and Peranakan (Straits Chinese) mansions, notably the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum . 

Melaka's multidimensional cultures have helped fuel a roaring tourist trade. Colorful trishaws offer joyrides and history tours, while Jonker Walk Night Market is the evening's entertainment, offering everything from open-air karaoke to nibbling on Nyonya zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings).

Take refreshing upland hikes in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's most famous hill stations snooze among the vivid green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands . Temperatures seldom stray higher than 30°C (86°F), attracting locals and tourists alike to cool off in these 4265ft to 6000ft (1300m to 1829m) heights. Many folks pick strawberries at Raaju's Hill or make a beeline (sorry) for the honey farm – but there are more authentic natural encounters in the Camerons. 

Take a guided hike with Eco Cameron to marvel at orchids and hunt for the whopping rafflesia flower. You can also go alone: numbered hiking trails extend right from main towns Brinchang and Tanah Rata (ask locally about trail safety, as robberies have been reported on some routes). Inevitably, you'll reward your outdoor exertions by sipping a cup of tea (or three) at a plantation. Boh Sungei Palas has some of the best views, with Boh Tea Garden a close second. 

Ipoh is Malaysia's best unsung destination

To Malay people, Ipoh is deservedly famous. For one, Ipoh's sweet, creamy white coffee is legendary. The town is the capital of Perak, a region of past tin-mining wealth that spawned colonial follies like Kellie's Castle . Then there are the regional delicacies – chicken bean sprouts, bean curd pudding – that bring KL day trippers piling into Ipoh eateries. 

But for international travelers, Ipoh has remained firmly off the map – overlooked on the rush between KL and Penang. So if you're looking for unique places to visit in Malaysia, buck the trend and head to Ipoh. Its hilly outskirts are jeweled with cave temples; statue-studded Sam Poh Tong has a crimson pavilion secreted away among the limestone cliffs. In town, street art by famed Lithuanian muralist Ernest Zacharevic splashes the walls, shophouses on once-notorious Concubine Lane retain their antique flavor, and the train station has attracted the nickname Taj Mahal (you be the judge). 

Tioman Island is the best place to unwind

Picture it: palm trees and hibiscus flowers swaying in the sea breeze, and perhaps a sea breeze cocktail making its way into your hand as you settle in at a bar. This 52.5 sq mi (136 sq km) island begs you to unwind, embrace a slower pace and maybe get that tie-dye T-shirt.

Your only burden? Picking a village where you can settle down, uncrick your neck and maybe catch a wave or two. Kampung Juara is the best surf spot, with two wide, sandy beaches, plenty of places offering board and kayak hire, and, better yet, a turtle sanctuary on Mentawak Beach. Kampung Salang is backpacker central, with access to popular shores like white-sand Monkey Beach and occasional beach parties. To feel far from the beaten track, head to tucked-away villages like quiet, traditional Kampung Mukut . But wherever you sling your rucksack, make time for marine encounters. Tioman has extensive coral reefs (and abundant manta rays), and March to October is prime time for divers.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024

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Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Malaysia

25 Best Things to Do in Malaysia

Malaysia is located in the Malay Peninsula and stretches to parts of Borneo where it shares a border with neighboring Indonesia , and as such visitors should not be confused by the terms Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which comprises Sarawak and Sabah (also known as Malaysian Borneo).

With a total landmass of over 300,000 square kilometers, Malaysia is known for its capital city of Kuala Lumpur , a powerhouse financial and business hub in South East Asia, as well as its beautiful beaches, secluded islands, elevated hill stations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There is also a strong commitment to diversity here, and as well as Malays and indigenous groups, there is also a sizeable Chinese and Indian population in Malaysia which is reflected in the architecture and cultural relics found in country. Visitors here can choose from a wide variety of activities from hiking, to diving, to shopping or sampling the local food. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Malaysia .

1. Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur

One of the most iconic sights in the world, the PETRONAS Towers, also known as the PETRONAS Twin Towers due to the fact that they come in a pair, are located in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur and are the tallest twin towers in the world. The architecture is postmodern in style and also features motifs found in Islamic art to represent the Muslim majority in Malaysia. The main attraction is the sky walk over the sky bridge that joins them together and visitors can admire the views that stretch across Kuala Lumpur and KLCC Park at the base of the towers.

Fast entry tickets : Petronas Towers: Skip-the-Line Ticket with Hotel Delivery

2. Sunbathe on Langkawi

If you fancy getting out of the city then head to Langkawi Island, actually an archipelago of over a hundred islands in the Andaman Sea, only two of which are inhabited and of which Langkawi is the largest with a population of over 60,000 inhabitants. Langkawi Island is popular with both backpackers and honeymooners alike and has something to suit all budgets. The island is also has duty-free status so visitors can stock up on souvenir items cheaply.

Book online : Langkawi: Mangrove Kilim UNESCO Geopark & Cave Tour

3. Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar is a staple food in Malaysia and actually means ‘mixed rice’, as customers are given a plate with rice over which they can choose a variety of toppings and sauces. Nasi Kandar is based on Tamil dishes due to the high number of South Indian immigrants and the flavors reflect this with an emphasis on curry powder and chili. Common Nasi Kandar dishes include chicken, fish, or seafood such as prawns or squid in curry sauce as well as vegetables like okra and cabbage cooked in mustard seeds.

4. Get out of town at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is actually a collection of five islands that are found off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. The park is accessible by ferry and some of the islands such as Sulug Island are almost untouched, while others such as Gaya Island are busier and more crowded. Common pursuits on the islands include hiking and trekking, as well as swimming and scuba diving opportunities.

5. Enjoy the culture in Malacca

Malacca or Melaka is also known as ‘The Historic State’ and lies next to the Malacca Strait from which it gets its name. The state is said to have the most interesting architecture in all of Malaysia as it was formerly colonized by the Portuguese and features a number of red lacquer buildings from the period such as Christ Church. Malacca also has a high concentration of museums, galleries, and places of historic interest for visitors to explore.

6. Meander around Penang

Penang is an island off the west coast of Malaysia that has Georgetown as its capital, named after British king, King George. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Penang has a focus on conservation and preservation and visitors can experience this at one of the many famous hotels in Penang, such as the E&O established by Stamford Raffles who also founded the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Penang is also famous for its Tropical Spice Garden that showcases the best of the region’s local flora and fauna such as the Torch Ginger, a plant used in many traditional Malay dishes.

7. Go trekking in Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park is located in the state of Pahang as has several claims to fame that attract a steady stream of visitors. One of these is that this is the largest national park in peninsular Malaysia, as well as the fact that the park features the longest rope walkway in the world. The park also has some serious treks, as long as 100km round trip, as well as more gentle hikes for beginners. There is a wide array of wildlife and plant life in the park for nature lovers and the area is even home to an indigenous tribe named the Orang Asli or Original People, said to be the first inhabitants of Malaysia.

Available tour: Full-Day Group Tour to Taman Negara

8. Explore the culture in Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu is to be found on the west coast of Malaysia in the state of Kelantan and is an interesting change of pace and atmosphere to the east coast and many visitors to Malaysia fail to visit this city, perhaps due to its reputation as a more conservative region than much of the rest of the country. Standards of dress and comportment are stricter in Kota Bharu, however, there are a wide variety of mosques and other religious sites to visit such as the old royal palaces which are still the home of the current Sultan of Kelantan.

• 9.  Get away to the Genting Highlands

The Genting Highlands, also dubbed Resorts World Genting is a resort located in the Titiwangsa Mountains and sits at an elevation of over 5,000 feet. The resort is a popular destination with local visitors and has a wide range of attractions to enjoy. These include several different theme parks, bars, restaurants and nightclubs, as well as a cable car attraction known as the Genting Skyway which previously held the title of the world’s fastest and South East Asia’s longest gondola lift. Due to its location, they are also several fruit and vegetable farms for visitors to explore and pick fresh produce.

Suggested tour : Genting Highlands and Batu Caves Day Trip

10. Observe the orang utans in Sepilok

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah, East Malaysia, is found outside of the city of Sandakan and was the first orang utan rehabilitation centre of its kind in the world when it opened in the 1960s. The aim of the centre is to rescue orphaned orang utans who have been left to fend for themselves due to illegal poaching and logging, or who have been found being kept as pets (which is illegal in Malaysia), and administer healthcare and training to the mammals so that they are able to reintegrate and survive in the wild. Once they are able to do so they are released. Visitors can observe the orang utans in the centre and tours are aimed to coincide with feeding times when the animals are usually present on the feeding platforms.

11. Relax in Kuching

The city of Kuching in Sarawak in East Malaysia was actually named after a miscommunication between James Brooke who discovered the region, and the local indigenous population, who, when asked the name of the ground that the city stood on thought he was pointing to a stray cat. The name stuck, and the area is located on the island of Borneo that shares a border with Indonesia. Kuching is set alongside the Sarawak River and is often said to have a calm and relaxed feel to it and tours along the river are a common pursuit for visitors. There are also many examples of colonial architecture such as Fort Magherita and an abundance of cat statues that celebrate the city’s namesake.

12. Dive in at the Perhentian Islands

Actually a group of islands in the state of Terengganu, the Perhentians lie close to the coast of Thailand. The islands can be visited by ferry and water taxis operate between the various islands giving visitors the chance to island hop at their leisure. Key attractions in the Perhentians are the pristine beaches and water and scuba diving is considered a favorite activity in these parts. At night dine on freshly caught fish cooked over coconut husks on the beach.

13. Climb Mount Kinabalu

The highest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu sits in the Crocker mountain range and lies within Kinabalu Park which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Kinabalu has a host of biodiversity including many types of flora, fauna, and fungi. The trek to the top of Mount Kinabalu is strenuous and not recommended to inexperienced hikers and due to the advanced elevation there is a risk of altitude sickness. All hikers must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times and there are two different routes to choose from although these intersect towards the summit. The hike can be undertaken by experienced climber in one day although many choose to stay overnight as there is accommodation available en route.

14. Take to the skies at the Langkawi Cable Car

Take off from the ‘oriental village’ at Teluk Burau and rise to the majestic heights of Mount Machingchang where you will also find the Langkawi Sky Bridge. The journey by cable car takes around fifteen minutes and offers visitors panoramic views of the island and on a clear day you can every see all the way to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.

15. Ascend Maxwell Hill in Taiping

A less well known spot that has the double claim to fame of having the only Chinese name in Malaysia and being the wettest city in the country, Taiping is located outside of Penang in Perak State. This second statistic is the more important one as it means that the local fauna is lush and fertile and some of the trees found in the Taiping Lake Gardens are over a hundred years old. There is also a hill station located at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet named Maxwell Hill that provides visitors with trekking and camping opportunities, and jeep rides to the station are a much loved attraction with locals and tourists.

16. Venture to the Lost World of Tambun

The ‘Lost World of Tambun’ in Ipoh is actually not an archeological wonder but rather a theme park and resort and is said to be one of the city’s premier attractions. The park features several ‘lost world’ rides and discovery adventures and also has a range of hotels and a large spa offering a variety of treatments for tired would-be archeologists. There is also a water park, a zoo, and an aquarium on site.

17. Wander through China Town in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia, in addition to Malay and Indian nationals, has a large Chinese population and as such China Town has developed as a predominantly ethnically Chinese area of the city. Essentially located in and around Petaling Street, the area features a market, Chinese food options, and Chinese cultural attractions such as temples.

18. Shop and eat at Gurney Drive

Gurney Drive in Penang is a seafront promenade that overlooks a series of beaches including North Beach. The area is well known at night when dozens of local food sellers set up in the area and visitors can buy local delicacies and snacks. If you prefer to do some shopping then head to Gurney Plaza. This large shopping mall has a mix of high end shops, restaurants, and smaller Malaysian outlets for visitors to stock up on souvenirs.

19. Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque

Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s National Mosque is a sight to behold and can accommodate 15,000 worshippers at any given time. Built in 1965, the mosque follows principles of Islamic architecture and has as a roof in the shape of a sixteen point star. There is also a strong emphasis on water features such as fountains and reflective pools throughout the mosque complex and visitors can tour the mosque but must wear appropriate dress which is provided to do so.

Available tour : Private Batu Cave, National Mosque & Religious Tour w/ Lunch

20. Seek out cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands actually refers to a hill station located in Pahang state, and was discovered in the 19th century by Sir William Cameron who lent his name to the area. Many local visitors flock to the area as the elevation of the hill station provides cool weather in which to enjoy outdoor activities such as tea and coffee plantation tours and fruit picking at one of the many different fruit farms. The highlands are also famous for their traditional English cream teas with fresh strawberries picked locally.

Book online: Cameron Highlands Private Day Tour

21. Go climbing in the Batu Caves

To explore the Batu Caves head outside of Kuala Lumpur to the region of Selangor and marvel at these limestone cliffs that are studded with caves and carved cave temples. The caves and temples are Hindu shrines and as such are a site of pilgrimage for the many Tamil residents of Malaysia. Aside from visiting the caves to worship, travelers can also experience the local flora and fauna including wild monkeys that inhabit the area as well as bats that dwell in the caves. For the more adventurous visitors, there are also rock climbing opportunities with over 160 climbing routes in the area.

Recommended tour : Batu Caves Half-Day Tour

22. Get back to nature at Gunung Mulu National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gunung Mulu National Park is located near the town of Miri in Sarawak, East Malaysia, and is famous primarily for its caves and karsts formations (made from dissolved rocks such as limestone). The park takes its name from Mount Mulu which is the second largest mountain in Sarawak and visitors can explore the caves, the rainforest, and enjoy hiking and trekking opportunities.

23. Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Located in the town of Johor Bahru, on the border between Malaysia and Singapore, Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple is set in an area of rapid development and can be found nestled between several skyscrapers. The temple is thought to be around 130 years old although no clear records exist, and features several important historical relics such as plaques and a large bronze bell. The temple is also famous for hosting five important Chinese deities and visitors can explore the area and these important Chinese figures.

24. Head to Tioman Island

If you want to get out of the city then head to Tioman Island located in Pahang state. There are eight villages on the island and much of it is still covered with lush rainforest and visitors can go trekking from one side of the island to the other in a day. There are also pristine coral reefs for those who like diving to enjoy and several resorts and hotels on the island. Like Langkawi, Tioman also has duty-free status.

25. Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is an area of Kuala Lumpur known for its nightlife, bar, clubs, restaurants, and hotels. The area extends over several streets but the central hub is said to be Jalan P. Ramlee where visitors can choose from a wide variety of venues to drink and party into the wee small hours. The area also includes a large shaping center for those looking for some retail therapy before a night on the town.

25 Best Things to Do in Malaysia:

• Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur
• Sunbathe on Langkawi
• Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar
• Get out of town at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
• Enjoy the culture in Malacca
• Meander around Penang
• Go trekking in Taman Negara National Park
• Explore the culture in Kota Bharu
• Observe the orang utans in Sepilok
• Relax in Kuching
• Dive in at the Perhentian Islands
• Climb Mount Kinabalu
• Take to the skies at the Langkawi Cable Car
• Ascend Maxwell Hill in Taiping
• Venture to the Lost World of Tambun
• Wander through China Town in Kuala Lumpur
• Shop and eat at Gurney Drive
• Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque
• Seek out cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands
• Go climbing in the Batu Caves
• Get back to nature at Gunung Mulu National Park
• Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
• Head to Tioman Island
• Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

14 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021

Malaysia is a country of contrasts-an eclectic mix of colonial architecture, stunning parks and beaches , contemporary skyscrapers, and a unique landscape covered in tea plantations . A melting pot with influences from neighboring lands, as well as Western countries, Malaysia has something for everybody-from the world-famous Petrona Towers to the cultural and religious diversity that makes this a destination like no other.

Whether you're already planning a trip or just exploring possibilities, here's a list of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

1. Kuala Lumpur

2. george town, 3. gunung mulu national park, 5. perhentian islands, 6. borneo rainforest, 7. langkawi, 8. cameron highlands, 9. taman negara, 10. kota kinabalu, 11. batu ferringhi, 13. malacca city, 14. tioman island, map of places to visit in malaysia.

Malaysia's capital and largest city has much to offer travelers. Perhaps best known for the Petronas Twin Towers (the world's tallest twin towers), KL is a very popular tourist destination and routinely makes the list of top 10 most visited cities in the world.

A mix of colonial, modern, Asian, and Malay architecture flows through the city, giving it a unique look you don't usually find in other Southeast Asian capitals. The National Palace and the House of Parliament are two examples of stunning KL architecture-well worth a look even if you don't plan on exploring inside.

More great things to do while you're in Kuala Lumpur include visiting Merdeka Square, shopping at Chinatown's Petaling Street, and exploring KL Bird Park.

Kuala Lumpur is considered one of the best shopping destinations in Southeast Asia -not only does the city have almost 70 shopping centers, but it's also full of indoor/outdoor markets (like the gigantic Central Market, with over 800 shops and stalls) and a great place to pick up hand-carved wood and pewter.

If you don't mind a quick trip out of town, the massive limestone Batu Caves , home to holy shrines and thousands of bats, are less than an hour away.

The older part of Malaysia's second-largest city has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site-but George Town is just as famous for its food as it is for its architecture. Known as " the food capital of Malaysia ," George Town offers some of the best street food in Asia, best experienced in places like seafront Gurney Drive and Chulia Street, a popular backpacker's destination and one of the oldest streets in the city.

While George Town's port and waterfront area is a tourist's favorite, there's much more to see and do here. The city's tallest skyscraper is home to the U-shaped Rainbow Skywalk , an outdoor glass viewing platform set 68 floors up in the air. For a less nerve-racking view of the city, take the tram up to the top of Penang Hill-the cityscape is particularly beautiful at night.

Less adventurous travelers might want to check out the Batik Painting Museum Penang before they grab some batik souvenirs from a local market, or visit the colorful 19 th -century Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple.

The park, named after Mount Mulu, attracts visitors from all over Asia who come here for trekking, caving, hot springs, and the natural beauty that caused this place to receive a UNESCO World Heritage Site classification.

Climbers can reach the top of Mount Mulu after a 24-kilometer trek with an elevation of 1,200 meters that starts at the park headquarters-but for those looking for a more relaxing day out, there are also easier trails within the park.

The park's main attractions are, however, its caves and the millions of bats that inhabit them. Set deep into the surrounding rainforest and karst cliffs, the caves are record-breakers in several ways-including featuring Southeast Asia's longest cave system and the world's largest cave passage. And at 115 meters high and 600 meters long, Sarawak Chamber is the largest cave chamber in the world, which is tricky to reach and can only be explored as part of a guided tour.

Kayaking, mountain biking, and taking a walk in the 500-meter-long canopy skywalk are also popular park activities.

Because of its location right against the South China Sea, it's perhaps no surprise that Kuantan's main call to fame is its beaches. Teluk Cempedak Beach is just minutes from the city center and offers a tree-lined, clean shoreline, while nearby Cherating Beach is home to a turtle sanctuary , as well as a cultural village that produces and sells traditional batik .

The Sungai Pandan Waterfall and Esplanade Park -from which you can take a boat to get a completely different view of the city-are also popular attractions and offer plenty of chances to explore the surroundings and hike or swim.

The Tin Museum , located on the site of a former massive underground tin mine, is a unique attraction worth a visit. Nearby, visitors will also find a hanging rope bridge and the Charah Cave complex (be prepared for an hour-long hike among tropical palm trees to reach the caves), which houses a large reclining Buddha.

These coral-fringed, secluded islands offer plenty of opportunities for kayaking, exploring, snorkeling , and scuba diving (including the popular site of a sugar hauler wreck), as well as a chance to volunteer with local organizations in green and hawksbill turtle conservation efforts.

The islands have remained underdeveloped, which means no major hotels, restaurants, or facilities are available on the island. For those wanting to stay overnight, there are a couple of guesthouses and homestay options but little else.

Jungle trekking is another major draw, as paths here zigzag through the islands, connecting beaches with each other and cutting through dense forests where monitor lizards and monkeys live. Paved trails also connect Coral Bay with a nearby beach, as well as a picturesque fishing village.

The island of Borneo (which is divided and belongs partly to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei) is densely covered in one of the oldest rainforests in the world and serves as a natural refuge for endangered species, such as the eastern Sumatra rhino and the Bornean orangutan.

If you want to see orangutans up close while supporting a good cause, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center is the most eco-friendly way to do just that.

Visitors go to Borneo for the rich indigenous culture, the jungle wildlife, and some of the best wild trekking in the world-much of which can be explored at the Rainforest Discovery Center , an educational destination that provides a great introduction to the island.

For those looking for more active pursuits, the two-day climb up Mount Kinabalu is a popular option.

A group of 99 islands off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is home to three protected Geoforest parks and many coconut tree-lined shores that are among the best beaches in Malaysia . Some beaches, like Pantai Cenang beach, are very popular with tourists, while beaches on the smaller northeastern islands have a backdrop of limestone cliffs and are more secluded.

For the best views of the islands and ocean, you can take the island's cable car to the top of one of the tallest mountains on the island. Once here, you can get on the 125-meter-long Langkawi Sky Bridge , a pedestrian walkway 660 meters above sea level. Just a few minutes from the cable car there's also the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls , which offer beautiful clear pools for swimming, as well as a jungle trail that runs up two different mountains.

The small museum and rice fields at the Laman Padi Rice Garden make for an interesting quick stop, while the 50-acre Legenda Langkawi Park offers a great space to explore the heritage and history of the area through manicured gardens, traditional buildings, and sculptures of ogres, mythical creatures, and other Langkawi folkloric figures.

The Cameron Highlands is a hilly region with a long tradition of tea growing on the sloping mountainside. The tea plantations are still a major attraction today and one of the most photographed spots, but the Cameron Highlands are also home to lavender and strawberry farms; orchards; herbal gardens and nurseries; and the Mossy Forest boardwalk, an always-foggy tropical evergreen environment with designated footpaths to see the local flora and fauna up close.

If you only have time to visit one plantation, BOH Tea Plantation is a good choice-not only is this the largest producer of tea in Malaysia, but visitors can also join tours to see the tea-making process up close, visit the gift shop, and explore the walkways that cut through the land.

For an inside look into the agricultural and farming practices in Malaysia, the Mardi's Agro Technology Park is an unexpectedly fun destination where you can tour the fruit orchards (including a large area dedicated to the unusual jackfruit) and even camp overnight.

Or visit the only memorabilia museum in Malaysia, The Time Tunnel , where you can see recreated rooms and shops from the early 20 th century, play vintage board games, and see photographs from pre-War days .

A protected area inhabited by a 130-million-year-old deciduous rainforest, Taman Negara offers activities and attractions to last for days. In addition to jungle trekking and bird-watching, visitors come here to climb Mount Tahan (considered one of the hardest hikes/climbs in Malaysia), try the canopy walkway, or jump on the Lata Berkoh river rapids.

Exploring the entire Gua Telinga limestone cave system would take weeks, but it's possible to join individual guided tours to see the main caves here, where you'll have to crawl, squeeze, through tight underground tunnels, and likely get wet to reach the main chambers.

The park is home to a number of endangered species, including the Malayan tiger and the Malayan peacock-pheasants-a rare sight of either one is an experience in itself.

Located against the South China Sea, the capital city of Kota Kinabalu or KK occupies the northern section of Borneo and is surrounded by virgin forest and large mountain ranges.

Nearby Mount Kinabalu (from where the city gets its name), is Malaysia's highest mountain and a highly regarded climbing destination . Because the mountain has protected status and is home to many endangered species (including orangutans and the giant vine known as Rafflesia-with five-petaled flowers that can reach up to one meter in diameter), climbing is only possible in the company of park rangers.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is another important tourist attraction-a park that covers almost five hectares and spreads over five islands. It offers visitors chances to sunbathe on the sloping, white, sandy beach ; explore the coral reefs ; or take to the many hiking trails that cut through the dense tropical forest.

For those interested in exploring the cultural side of KK, must-sees include the Sabah State Museum, Merdeka Square (where the declaration of Independence took place), and Monsopiad Cultural Village , where visitors can learn more about ethnic local groups.

Technically a suburb of George Town, Batu Ferringhi is a famous beach destination for both locals and foreign visitors with plenty to offer to both sunbathers and those looking for an active holiday under the sun.

Rocky outcrops and high-end resorts line the turquoise coastline here, and visitors have a chance to try parasailing and windsurfing or rent a jet ski right on the beach.

Once the sun comes down, Batu Ferringhi's most popular attraction is its night market, where travelers can get as much batik, handmade souvenirs, and local handicrafts as their heart desires.

Food stalls at the market offer the best chance in town to try traditional Malay food in a lively, colorful atmosphere of vendors and live entertainment. There's also a batik factory in town if you want to see how this unique painting technique works.

For a peek into Malaysia's jungle paradise, head to the Tropical Spice Garden , an eight-acre park with lush hiking trails, waterfalls, and an herbal garden.

The third-largest city in Malaysia is famous for its colonial-era architecture, traditional cuisine (which combines influences of Chinese, Indian, and Malay food), and beautiful unspoiled nature. Ipoh's Old Town is near the Kinta River, and it's a great place to see Chinese shophouses and the narrow "Concubine Lane," a chic area full of restaurants, pop-up stalls, and gift shops.

Ipoh's most unique feature, however, is its street art in the form of large murals drawn on buildings and bringing Ipoh's heritage to life.

While in town, make some time to stop by the Birch Memorial Clock Tower for some great pictures; visit D. R. Seenivasagam Park to see the Japanese Gardens ; or experience thrill rides at the Sunway Lost World of Tambun; a theme park that also features hot springs, a water park, and an adventure area offering ziplines and climbing walls.

Malacca City has been an important port town since the 15th century, though today it's best known for its colorful heritage buildings and fun cultural attractions. This quaint city is best explored on foot, so you can truly appreciate the eclectic mix of colonial and Peranakan architecture all around.

Malacca's main attraction is its picturesque waterfront, where you'll find plenty of lively cafés, entertainment venues, and places to visit. For example, there's the 17th-century Stadthuys building, which once served as the official residence of governors and now houses the Museum of History & Ethnography.

Jonker Street, in the heart of Chinatown, has a lively night market on weekends; great street food; and a number of important buildings, including the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum, spread over three restored townhouses, and Malaysia's oldest Chinese temple, Cheng Hoon Teng.

Not far from here is the terra-cotta-red Christ Church Melaka, a Dutch structure dating back to the 1750s and one of the most famous landmarks in Malacca City. Other great places to visit include the Melaka Sultanate Palace and the A'Famosa Fort ruins.

Tioman is the default destination for those looking for a simpler, rougher beach life - a place where beaches remain underdeveloped, there are few roads, and you're likely to share the sand with the occasional macaque or other wildlife as you walk around the island.

Air Batang or ABC Beach attracts mostly budget travelers and offers excellent sunsets, while Juara Beach is quiet and perfect for swimming. For great snorkeling, head to Salang Beach instead.

For non-divers, Tioman Island is also a great starting point for kayaking, and it's filled with jungle trekking opportunities. Organized tours can take you snorkeling to Marine Park and Ringgis islands, and there are also special organized trips to visit Benut Beach, a turtle sanctuary.

20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots

Malaysia sits between Singapore and Thailand, literally and on the scale of how easy it is to travel.

The country is divided into two main regions, Peninsular Malaysia on the west, composed of Kuala Lumpur & nearby states.

And, East Malaysia, composed of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo Island.

You can enjoy many of Southeast Asia’s best heritage cities, natural spots, food havens and urban experiences in Peninsular Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur offers direct connections from major cities in Asia & beyond. It’s the primary hub of AirAsia, so finding cheap flights shouldn’t be hard to come by. There’s also the option to a bus or train and cross the border from/to Singapore easily within a day. Once you’ve arrived, getting to main tourist spots is convenient by land or air.

Venture to East Malaysia for the best beaches, diving & trekking. It is home to Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in archipelagic Southeast Asia (outside of Papua) as well as many beautiful off-shore islands.

Is Malaysia on your bucketlist? Inspire your trip with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.

1. Kuala Lumpur

Location : Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .

Kuala Lumpur is definitely worth exploring if ever you’re visiting Malaysia. The capital city’s urban landscape, dominated by iconic KL Tower and Petronas Towers, is dotted with grand heritage buildings, worthwhile museums, well-maintained parks, revered temples, and mosques.

How to go :

Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), the main flight gateway to Malaysia. It’s one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the world with direct flights to tourist hubs in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, South Asia and major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Major airlines include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Lion Air, Malindo Air & Firefly. The airport is 30 minutes to 1 hour south of the city center by land. You can take the train, bus or private car.

From the Philippines, go on a flight to Kuala Lumpur on AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Malaysia Airlines. Travel time takes nearly 4 hours. Flights to KL are also available from Clark, Cebu & Kalibo.

Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)

Malaysia Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Malaysia (click below to see rates and book online) |

Malaysia Fares & Transport

Malaysia Tours & Discounts

Malaysia  WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Malaysia  |  Kuala Lumpur Itinerary  |  Singapore Travel Guide .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Penang & Georgetown

Location : Penang, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .

Food in Georgetown, Penang is widely known as the best throughout the country and is reason enough to visit. It’s definitely my favorite place to visit in Malaysia. There is no place in Southeast Asia that can match its satisfying mix of old-world cosmopolitan heritage, relaxed feel, exotic allure, and lush natural landscapes.

Georgetown & Penang Island is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Penang International Airport (PEN) serves frequent direct flights KL, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Taipei & many domestic destinations in Malaysia including Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi, and Kota Bharu. Popular airlines include AirAsia, Malindo Air, Malaysia Airlines, Tigerair, Jetstar & Cathay Dragon. You can also reach Georgetown by bus/train/car, after a 4 to 6-hour land trip from Kuala Lumpur.

Penang Travel Essentials

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

THE TOP Komtar Penang

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

Location : Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Melaka (Malacca) is a former Portuguese-colonial trading port conveniently located between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. If you’re traveling to both cities by land, this heritage and food destination is worth a stopover.

Melaka is easy to reach by land from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The bus ride from Kuala Lumpur usually takes 2 to 3 hours. If you’re coming from Singapore, travel may take between 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoints.

Melaka Travel Essentials

4. Langkawi

Location : Kedah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

If you’ve been to the best beaches in the Philippines and Thailand, Langkawi’s natural scenery is probably not going to blow you away. That said, it still is a stunning place to visit with worthwhile things to keep you busy for a day or two. What I like about Langkawi the most is that is easy to travel yet remains approachable and largely underdeveloped. It’s also one of the few tax-free islands in Malaysia where you can enjoy duty-free shopping.

Langkawi is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Langkawi International Airport (LGK) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Penang, Guangzhou & Shenzhen, operated by AirAsia, Tigerair, SilkAir, Malindo Air & Malaysia Airlines. If you want to go by land & ferry, ride a bus or train from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis (6 to 8 hours travel time). Then, ride a ferry to Kuah in Langkawi Island. The sea journey takes around 1 to 2 hours. You can also arrive in Langkawi on a direct ferry from Penang or Satun in Thailand.

Langkawi Travel Essentials

Shared Ferry Transfers Between Langkawi and Koh Lipe

Ferry Ticket between Koh Lipe and Langkawi by Hi Lipe

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

5. Putrajaya

Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Putrajaya is home to many of Malaysia’s most impressive monuments. Here, you’ll find grand mosques, government buildings, and iconic bridges surrounded by manicured parks and a 600-hectare lake. It can be reached on an easy day trip from Kuala Lumpur or on a drive-by to the airport.

Putrajaya is easy to visit from Kuala Lumpur. It is located between KL city centre and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You can go by train on the KLIA Transit or by bus. Travel time may take as quick as 30 minutes or up to 1 hour depending on the traffic.

Putrajaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

6. Legoland & Johor Bahru

Location : 7, Jalan Legoland, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Legoland Malaysia is one reason to visit Johor Bahru, located just across the causeway from Singapore. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and features many cool attractions including a Lego-themed water park, Lego-themed hotel, and impressive miniature recreations of many of Asia’s best-known landmarks.

Most travelers visit Legoland & Johor Bahru on a day trip from Singapore. Travel time usually takes 1.5 hours to 3 hours depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoint. If you’re traveling from abroad, Johor Bahru-Senai International Airport (JHB) serves direct flights from Bangkok, Guangzhou, Ho Chi Minh, Jakarta, Surabaya & Shenzen. Fly with AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Sichuan Airlines or Spring Airlines. You can also reach Johor Bahru by bus or train from Kuala Lumpur. The travel time is 4 to 6 hours.

Johor Bahru Travel Essentials

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Legoland Malaysia – SG Transfers

7. Kota Kinabalu

Location : Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Kota Kinabalu is a bustling yet laid-back city in Sabah, East Malaysia known as a gateway to Borneo’s amazing natural sites including Mount Kinabalu, Mulu Caves National Park, diving spots, and pristine jungles.

From the Philippines, you can fly direct to Kota Kinabalu from Manila on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. Flight duration is 2 hours.

Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours and 30 minutes easy of Kuala Lumpur by plane. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tokyo and many domestic destinations in Malaysia. Major airlines include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines & Malindo Air.

Kota Kinabalu Travel Essentials

Kota Kinabalu City Half Day Tour

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring

Tunku Abdul Rahman Island Visit & Boat Snorkeling Experience

On My Bucketlist

8. Mount Kinabalu

Location : Ranau near Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

9. Cameron Highlands

Location : 39000, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

10. Perhentian Islands

Location : Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Redang Island

Location : Pulau Redang, 21090 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

12. Sipadan Island

13. Tioman Island

Location : Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Genting Highlands

15. Mulu Caves

Location : Sarawak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Ipoh Travel Essentials

17. Kuching & Sarawak

18. Sandakan

19. Pahang Taman Negara

Location : 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Pahang Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

20. Bukit Tinggi

Location : 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Beyond Malaysia

Location : Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Singapore Travel Essentials

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Malaysia that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Malaysia

Malaysia tourist spots, things to do in Malaysia, where to go in Malaysia & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Malaysia

How much does it cost to travel to Malaysia? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Click below & search recommended Malaysia hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Malaysia Essentials & Top Discounts

Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

Japan SIM card Pocket WIFI See all discounts

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Kuala Lumpur Airport Train Ticket (KLIA Ekspres)

KL Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass

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December 11, 2015 at 4:09 am

How much po ba dpat ang show money sa airport for them to allow u to leave? Im gona stay in malaysia for 3 weeks

December 11, 2015 at 1:48 pm

There’s no set amount that’s required to be shown at the airport. You just have to justify that you have enough money to spend on your whole trip, depending on your budget. If your budget is P1,500 per day, for example, you simply need to have at least P31,500 on your bank account. It also helps to have extra, to show them you are able to pay for unforeseen expenses, like emergencies or last-minute flights.

November 20, 2018 at 1:30 pm

So many great destination ideas! Even though I have already had mine, I still like to get to know some nice destinations, even for holidays with my wife. I would also add one more place that we really like to visit, Bali in Indonesia

January 28, 2019 at 4:03 pm

Wow! Such a great resource you have here! Been in love with Malaysia since day 1 of our visit. The beaches and culture is outstanding! Sooo looking forward to our comeback. Wonderful guide! Kudos!

December 5, 2019 at 2:15 pm

The most famous places to be visited in Malaysia especially Kuala Lumpur is Twin Tower, KL Tower, Dataran Merdeka and many more.

May 5, 2020 at 8:35 pm

There are so many great places in Malaysia, it’s so hard to choose the best! Awesome round up :)

October 4, 2021 at 11:59 pm

You summed it all up in one post. Great coverage and definitely great recommendations.

Exploring Malaysia: 20 Best Places and Most Unique Experiences

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2024

Malaysia in Southeast Asia is a fascinating country with vibrant cities, a mixture of heritage and modern architecture, glorious sandy beaches, tea plantations, delicious food, lush jungles and diverse wildlife.

West Malaysia contains the country’s major cities (Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Georgetown Penang) and is the most popular area for tourists to visit on their first trip to Malaysia.

The cities offer a look at the country’s past and present culture and history and are great starting points for extended trips in Malaysia.

In East Malaysia, you will find quite a different setting, for it is here that Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, has its home.

Separated from West Malaysia by the South China Sea, Borneo is less populated than its neighbour, with biodiverse rainforests, indigenous wildlife, incredible diving spots, and some of the best beaches in Malaysia.

It also offers terrific Malaysian experiences, including mountain climbing, scuba diving, and observing Borneo wildlife in its natural environments.

Malaysia is an incredible travel destination that I have visited twice. My first trip was brief, as it was part of my three-month round-the-world trip, and I only got to experience Penang and Kuala Lumpur. The next time, I was determined to see more of this amazing country and stayed for one month.

I’ve now seen quite a chunk of Malaysia for myself; however, I asked fellow travellers for their contributions to places I have yet to visit. Read on for a guide to Malaysia’s best places and experiences to inspire you to travel to Malaysia in the future.

This article may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Malaysia Map

Best Cities to Discover in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and has an international airport around an hour’s drive away.

Also fondly known as KL, the city is one of Asia’s most popular places to visit, whether for a few days or longer. Like its bordering neighbour, Singapore, it is often used as a stopover destination; however, Malaysia and Singapore offer travellers very different experiences .

I have been to Kuala Lumpur twice for two nights on both occasions. On my first visit, I wasn’t overly keen on how busy it was, but the second time around, I loved it.

I went up to the top of the Petronas Towers , which is one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur. I took in the views from the KL Tower and walked back down to the city through the Forest Eco Park. It will surprise you with its natural forest setting and canopy walkways.

The newest attraction in Kuala Lumpur is the Merdeka Tower, which has Southeast Asia’s highest observation deck, The View at 118. It has now become the second-highest tower in the world after Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Batu Caves is a great place to see. Hewn into the limestone rocks, this Hindu shrine is one of the most important to the Hindu faith, with thousands of Tamils making a yearly pilgrimage to it. Climb the 272 colourful steps to see inside this incredible temple and meet the naughty monkeys who call it home.

Visiting Kuala Lumpur with teenagers is also great fun as there are plenty of things to do to keep them amused, from indoor skydiving at iFly Malaysia to the thrilling amusement park at Sunway Lagoon.

Discover Chinatown

One place not to miss in KL is Chinatown. If you want a bargain, visit Petaling Street (but be prepared to barter hard. The stall holders are not friendly!). For street art lovers, head to Kwai Chai Hong , a little alleyway with beautiful wall murals. Afterwards, head to one of the many nearby eateries for authentic Chinese/Malay food. Or head to Brickfield’s in Little India to try street food.

While in KL, I stayed at The Face Suites and Ascott Star . The properties are both self-contained apartments with rooftop swimming pools, perfect for life in the city.

Another great place to stay is Element by Westin , a 10-minute walk to the Petronas Towers. 

What was the weather like? It was hot and humid in April and July, with temperatures in the highs of 35°C.

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Penang is one hour or 4 hours by road

On the island of Penang, the Unesco heritage site of George Town is the most popular place in Malaysia for tourists, primarily for delicious street food and unique street art.

I ended up in Penang by chance as it was a last-minute booking instead of travelling to Bali. After I told people I was heading to Penang, I got a mixed response – some loved the city, but a lot didn’t – what had I done? It turns out that Penang was everything I wanted it to be and more, and I ended up falling in love with it!

Gritty, friendly, and real, Penang retains its true identity and rich history despite being a busy tourist destination due to the famous street art in George Town .

Explore the History and Culture of Penang

I stayed in Penang for three nights on two different trips and found it fascinating on both occasions. There are so many attractions in Penang you will probably wish you had stayed longer; however, three nights is a decent amount of time to see all the main sights.

Clan temples, using artefacts and pictures, tell the story of life for Chinese communities in the 19th century, and Chew Jetty on the waterfront allows us to glimpse local life on the water. In contrast, heritage mansions such as Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Cheong Fatt Tzu Mansion show us how life was lived for the wealthy at the turn of the 19th century. They are a great way of learning about Penang’s historic Chinese and Peranakan culture.

If you want a change of scenery, head to “The Habitat” rainforest on Penang Hill. It is the perfect place to escape the city’s blistering heat. Or take a morning stroll through Penang’s Botanical Gardens in George Town.

Where to Stay in Penang

While there are plenty of places to stay in George Town , I chose the beautiful 18th-century heritage hotel called The Blue Mansion . The hotel’s interior is of an eclectic Chinese style, with a facade and interior areas painted in a distinctive indigo-blue colour.

I also spent a few nights at Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Beach Resort in Batu Ferringhi. It is a great place to enjoy some sun, sea, and sand after the hustle and bustle of George Town.

What was the weather like? I visited in February on my first visit and in July on my second visit, and it was hot, sticky and dry in George Town (in the 30s) on both occasions. It was slightly cooler (but not by much) in the coastal area of Batu Ferringhi.

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by road takes 2 hour s .

I spent two nights in Ipoh following a stay at the Pangkor Laut Island Resort. Ipoh is the biggest city in Perak and is halfway between Lumut (the jumping-off point for Pangkor Island) and the Cameron Highlands, so it was the perfect place to explore en route between the two locations.

The drive time between Lumut and Ipoh is around 75 minutes. If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, the fast train to Ipoh takes around 3 hours, or you can join an organised tour .

Ipoh is small, very walkable, and divided into old and new towns. Old Ipoh is the best part of town to visit because you can step inside heritage house museums, see important colonial buildings on the heritage trail and enjoy Malaysian dishes in cafes tucked away down tiny alleyways.

Discover Ipoh’s Street Art

Besides those attractions, one of the best reasons to visit Ipoh is to see fabulous street art.

Seek out the street art murals by Ernest Zacharevic (the same artist whose work is in George Town) before photographing Mural Arts Lane in the new part of town where the artwork is more minimal.

Ipoh exudes a charming old-world ambience you can fully savour at the city’s numerous quaint cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the iconic Ipoh White Coffee, a sweet coffee originating here, and the delicious custard tarts similar to Portugal’s pastel de nata tarts.

A short drive from town is where you can visit Ipoh’s unique cave temples formed from limestone rock and still used as places of worship. They are adorned with statues, altars and ornaments, and one even has a beautiful lakeside setting that is a delight to wander around. They are a must-see when you come to Ipoh.

For cave enthusiasts, Gua Tempurung is a short drive away and is the largest cave in Peninsula Malaysia. Walk inside its vast caverns or, for the more adventurous, take part in a guided pot-holing activity!

What was the weather like? In July, it was very hot and humid.

Port Dickson

Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson by road takes 90 minutes.

While it might not feature at the top of the international traveller’s list, thousands of Malaysian locals can’t be wrong.

Considered one of the best places to escape the hustle and bustle of the country’s concrete jungles, the seaside town of  Port Dickson  is a favourite haunt for local Malaysian tourists looking to escape for a weekend or two. 

About a 90-minute drive from chaotic Kuala Lumpur, this budget-friendly beauty used to be a busy trading post before it developed into a tourist hotspot.

Nowadays, you’ll find several high-end resorts dotting the coastline, including the most famous resort in Malaysia, Lexis Hibiscus Port Douglas, a hotel complex shaped like the national flower of Malaysia – the hibiscus. It also boasts two Guinness World Records for the most swimming pools in a resort (a startling 643) and the most overwater villas in a resort (522). 

Exploring Port Dickson

But hanging out in Port Dickson doesn’t need to be within the confines of a luxury hotel. The area is jam-packed with things to do to suit any travel style.

From crazy upside-down houses and art galleries to a cowboy-themed indoor theme park and an interesting observatory, you can keep the entire family entertained.

If natural pursuits are more your thing, Port Dickson delivers in droves.

You can hang out at the picturesque beach of the Blue Lagoon or spend hours hiking in the thickly forested surroundings of Tanjung Tuan. The 80-hectare nature reserve offers birdwatching, sandy beaches and an incredible lighthouse, the crowning glory of the reserve, which helps to steer ships into the serene Strait of Malacca.

What was the weather like? In March the weather was lovely and quite hot.

Words and Images by Travel Scribes.

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka by road takes 2 hour s .

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Malaysia, you won’t want to miss out on the vibrant town of Melaka (also spelt Malacca).

Melaka is a port city only about an hour and a half south of Kuala Lumpur and is home to a UNESCO heritage site.

It’s one of the best places in Malaysia to learn more about the interesting cultural history of this country, with Melaka having periods ruled by the Malay, Dutch, English and Portuguese thanks to its strategic location for trade.

It’s also a great city to explore, with most of the interesting historical attractions within walking distance of each other.

I loved exploring this place on foot, and it’s easy to come across many fascinating religious temples, old forts and museums. I also recommend a Melaka River cruise.

Exploring the City of Melaka

Melaka has lively night markets on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights on Jonker Street. This is a must-do if you are in town over the weekend. This is where to head for dining, souvenirs, handicrafts and street food.

Outside the centre, there is also an array of attractions, like Taman Mini Malaysia, which offers information about the various Malay states’ cultures, including replicas of traditional homes, games, dancing, and cooking.

It is easy to reach Melaka by bus or on a tour from Kuala Lumpur . There are also direct buses from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

For a good value place to lay your head, we enjoyed staying at the Imperial Heritage Hotel. It’s within walking distance of the main attractions and has a handy shopping centre across the road.

What was the weather like? Melaka is hot and humid all year round, with the most rain in April and October. 

Words by Dive Into Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur to Sekinchan by road takes 1 hour 30 minutes .

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, might be one of the most impressive cities in Malaysia; however, after spending a few days in its insufferable noise, pollution, and crowds, we knew we had to go somewhere more peaceful.

After much research, we finally settled on  Sekinchan , a small fishing village 1.5 hours away and one of Malaysia’s best-hidden gems .

If you don’t have your own car, you may want to consider renting a bicycle from one of the shops in town to explore the surrounding area.

Although Sekinchan is only a small fishing village, its most iconic features are the lush rice paddy fields that stretch farther than the eye can see. 

Cycling through the Paddy Fields

We spent the morning cycling up and down these picturesque paddy fields and enjoying the simple things in life. When we had enough, we went to cool off in the Pantai Redang, Sekinchan’s only beach.

Not only was this beach peaceful, but we caught glimpses of local lives and discovered the Sekinchan Wishing Tree.

We couldn’t finish a visit to Sekinchan without trying their seafood. We ended the night at Wan Lau Seafood, sampling some delicious oyster egg omelette and clams before returning to our hotel.

If you plan on visiting Sekinchan, we recommend you stay at Padi Box as we did.

It is a unique accommodation in Sekinchan made with only recycled freight containers. This place is eco-friendly, and the creative use of freight containers makes it very decorative!

What was the weather like? In March, the weather was consistently hot and humid.

Words and images by Living Out Lau.

Best Cities to Discover in Borneo

Flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching takes 1 hour and 40 minutes .

Flying to is the best way to arrive in Kuching, even for those already elsewhere in Borneo.

It’s the only way to Sarawak’s capital from Peninsular Malaysia, and passports are necessary even though it’s a domestic trip. Thankfully, the flights are short and inexpensive, and in my experience, the city is very chilled.

See Orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve

It’s super close to nature, and even when I didn’t feel like spending a weekend on an orangutan trek through the jungle, I could (and did) take a detour from the airport to Semenggoh Nature Reserve to watch the feeding of the Bornean orangutan.

Beaches aren’t far away either, but seeing primates scale the trees and tear fruit apart was something else altogether, even from a short distance.

The city isn’t super photogenic, though there are old Chinese shophouses, temples, mosques and colonial forts along the river. However, it is cheap and easy to get around using the Grab ride-sharing app, which means more money to spend on meals.

Eating out in Kuching

You’ll discover fantastic food in Kuching that rivals Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, and Penang, making it a heaven for food lovers. Some dishes are unique to the city because of the Chinese migrants who settled there, and they incorporate local ingredients.

I stayed at the Meritin Hotel in the “Golden Triangle.” I was a block away from restaurants serving delicious dishes like kolo mee (curly noodles with minced pork) and Sarawak laksa ( a spicy prawn noodle dish. Specialities like stir-fried midin (fiddleheads) and Lui cha fan (herbal tea salad with rice) were just a short ride away. I had no regrets about going home a few pounds heavier!

What was the weather like? It was hot and relatively dry in June, but short rain showers can still occur, and I experienced one during the trip. From April to October, there’s a better chance of seeing the orangutans at the feeding stations.

Words and images by Rambling Feet.

Kota Kinabalu

Flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu takes 2 hours and 35 minutes .

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of the Sabah region of Malaysian Borneo. Though it might not seem super exciting initially, I was amazed at the number of  things you can do in Kota Kinabalu . I initially planned to stay for two days to check out the highlights, but I quickly extended my stay to over a week!

Kota Kinabalu has some lovely beaches; Tanjung Aru Beach for sunset is a must. It also has impressive mosques. The Pink Mosque and Masjid Bandaraya Mosque are two of the most beautiful I’ve seen.

A must-see is the Mari Mari Cultural Village, which showcases the lives and history of the indigenous Mari Mari tribe of Borneo – think head hunters and warriors!

Jesselton Pier is the jumping-off point in Kota Kinabalu for the 20-minute ferry ride to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Here, you can spend the day on a beautiful beach and snorkel. The marine park has several islands to visit, including Gaya Island, home to Bunga Raya Island Resort and Spa , a paradisical resort offering a luxurious stay at a reasonable price point.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu

Flying into Kota Kinabalu is easy from Kuala Lumpur and other cities in Borneo.

If you’re already exploring Sabah, you can fly in directly from Sandakan or take a bus from any major city in the area. Getting here from other parts of Borneo can be a little trickier and a long day as you may be crossing the border with Brunei, so I recommend flying instead.

There are plenty of hotels in Kota Kinabalu to suit all budgets. Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is a good choice if you want to splash the cash, whereas DreamTel is good for tighter budgets.

What was the weather like?

The weather at the end of March was great; it’s the end of the rainy season, so you still get some rainy afternoons, but they were scarce. It’s a great time to visit Borneo as you avoid the heat of the summer and the heavy rains of the rainy season, but everything looks extremely lush since it’s just ending.

Words by No Hurry To Get Home.

Best Islands to Discover in Malaysia

Pangkor island.

Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor by road takes 4 hours

I think Pangkor Island is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, as the island is still an unknown destination for foreign tourists, meaning you have the island to yourself.

A dense jungle covers most of the island, so wildlife thrives here. One day, when we returned from the beach, a family of monkeys were sitting on our bungalow roof! We also saw the hornbill, a beautiful black bird with a massive yellow beak. I loved that we could spot wildlife so easily on this island!

Discover the Delights of Pangkor Island

If you’re looking for a Malaysian island to explore off the tourist trail, with beautiful beaches, thriving wildlife, and many great attractions, I would 100% recommend Pangkor!

There are many  things to do on Pangkor Island . You can go to the beach, rent a kayak, go snorkelling, or rent a scooter and explore the island.

Pangkor has a beautiful mosque on the water, a quirky Chinese temple with a great viewpoint, and an old fisherman village.

Getting to Pangkor Island

It’s easy to get to Pangkor as it’s only a 4-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur and a 5-hour bus ride from Penang.

You must take the bus towards Lumut, where the ferry to Pangkor Island leaves every 45 minutes.

We stayed in a Pangkor Sandy Beach Resort bungalow, and I cannot recommend this place enough.

It’s very cheap, the bungalows are clean, and the owners are very kind. It’s best to find a place to stay on the island’s West side; there are many restaurants, and you will be close to the island’s best beach, Coral Beach.

If you are looking for a luxurious stay, Pangkor Laut Island Resort is a short boat ride away. It offers overwater bungalows and hillside villas, plus top-rated restaurants, a pool, tennis courts, and first-class service.

What was the weather like? In August, it was just lovely. Blue skies every day except for one morning when we had a crazy thunderstorm.

Words by Worldwide Walkers.

Perhentian Islands

The flight from Kuala Lumpur takes one hour and 10 minutes, and then there is a boat ride to the islands.

Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, the Perhentian islands, are two beautiful tropical islands located about 20 km off the coast of northeast Malaysia, close to Thailand.

My girlfriend and I loved staying on the spectacular Perhentian Kecil, the smaller island with perfect white beaches and crystal clear water offering excellent scuba diving, snorkelling from the beach and lovely hiking trails.

Both islands are beautiful, but Perhentian Kecil has a bit more of a lively vibe.

We got to Kuala Besut by bus from Thailand, but it is only an hour’s flight from Kuala Lumpur, and you take a speedboat to the islands.

There are fantastic guesthouses and resorts around Petani Beach and Long Beach. We arrived early enough to enjoy the first day on the beach and snorkel!

Discover the Underwater World in the Perhentian Islands

Long Beach is a beautiful sandy beach, and swimming in the warm, crystal-clear water was fantastic! From this point, we walked to Coral Bay beach on a jungle path, and there were some excellent basic restaurants where we could have lunch.

It is a quick walk back to Long Beach to watch the sunset. There are plenty of bars on the beach, and after dark, we sat on the beach with a drink, enjoying the choreographed fire dancing and poi fire show on the sand.

The diving around the island is fantastic, with warm, clear water, beautiful corals and various fascinating marine life.

We enjoyed  scuba diving in the Perhentian Islands . Our favourite dive sites were Tokong Laut, a beautiful tropical reef rich in marine life, and the sunken freighter Sugar Wreck, largely intact and lying in 20m of water. We had a lot of fun snorkelling and hiking on the island.

I recommend renting a kayak and snorkelling equipment, paddling between Long Beach and Coral Bay, and stopping to snorkel and observe reef sharks, barracudas, and beautiful corals and fish that thrive in these waters.

What is the weather like in the Perhentian Islands?

We have been to the Perhentian Islands in  July  more than once; the weather was hot and sunny with calm seas and little rain, and the diving was good. 

June to August is peak season; the island gets very busy, especially over the weekends, and accommodation can be fully booked. 

November to March  is monsoon season, and the whole island basically shuts down due to bad weather and rough seas.

Words and images by Stingy Nomads.

Langkawi Island

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi is 1 hour and 10 minutes .

When I see photos of white sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, and beautiful islands, wanderlust strikes, and Langkawi triggers that emotion.

Langkawi’s proximity to mainland Malaysia and Thailand makes it an accessible location, with many beautiful Langkawi hotels just waiting to welcome visitors to this tropical paradise.

We spent a wonderful day on the beach, enjoying water sports. Then, we lounged on the soft sand while sipping our drinks and watching some fire-dancing shows. At dusk, the beach is lit by flaming lamps and tabletop candles, adding a romantic rustic vibe.

Ride the cable car

Langkawi is also famous for its sky cable, The Langkawi Skycab , which lifts you above the virgin rainforest’s dense canopy.

The peak is 708m above sea level, where viewing platforms may trigger your fear of heights, especially when you step on the transparent floor.

On clear days, you can see the coastline of southern Thailand beyond the glimmering Andaman Sea.

Surrounded by turquoise waters, its interior combines picturesque paddy fields and jungle-clad hills. Whether you are after a jungle adventure, time on the beach, or a shopping spree, Langkawi is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

What was the weather like? In August, it was warm and sunny.

Words by Go Around Philippines .

Kapas Island

The flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu is one hour. The timings for travel by road are mentioned below.

Kapas Island is not as well-known as some of its neighbours and is a bit of a hidden island in Malaysia, a few kilometres off the east coast.

Due to the monsoon season, visiting Kapas Island from mid-October through to March is impractical, so my stay in May was timed perfectly.

Getting from Kuala Lumpur to Kapas Island is a long travel day. I took a bus to Kuala Terengganu (5 hours) before transferring to Merang (1 hour), where the boats regularly leave from Merang Jetty to Kapas Island. Day tours can be pre-booked from Kuala Terengganu.

Upon arrival at Kapas Island, you arrive at the sandy beach and walk to your accommodation. But you can take another boat further down the island if required, although it’s only a 30-minute walk from one end to the other.

Camping on the Beach

I stayed in my tent at Captain Longhouse, one of three beach campsites on the island (budget options). A few other accommodation options cater to both mid-range and luxury options.

The island is quiet during the week, but many domestic tourists visit the island on the weekends. However, with snorkelling available across the island, you can always find peace in the water.

I loved all the coral, and while there were not very many fish, I saw turtles and blacktip reef sharks daily.

If you prefer diving, there are plenty of scuba companies to arrange a dive. Otherwise, it’s all about sticking to the beach, playing volleyball and other beach games, relaxing, and watching the sunset.

Regarding food, while camping, I brought snacks to the island and sampled the restaurants and bars. I would advise you to make any dinner reservations around lunchtime as the restaurants usually get supplies for that night in the afternoon.

What was the weather like? I had good weather in May. It was the perfect time to visit.

Words by Chur New Zealand .

Tioman Island

From Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty by road is 4 hours, followed by a boat ride to the island.

Tioman Island is the largest of Malaysia’s 64 volcanic islands and lies just off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula. It is an absolute paradise with incredible snorkelling and diving opportunities.

It’s one of my favourite places in Malaysia, and I’ve never seen beaches like those on Tioman Island.

Of course, you’ll find other tourists here, but so far, Tioman has mainly been spared by the crowds that visit places like Langkawi or some of the nearby Thai Islands. 

Discover Paradise in the Tioman Islands

Tioman is sparsely populated, so you can always find a quiet spot. I’d highly recommend heading to Juara, a little secluded town with one of the island’s best beaches and a turtle project.

The road there is very narrow, and you should be careful if you’re exploring Tioman by scooter. If you’re not highly experienced on a scooter, you should hire a driver instead.

Tioman is all about water sports. It is the perfect spot to learn how to surf, go snorkelling or even try your hand at scuba diving.

Malaysia is affordable for getting a diving certification, and Tioman has one of the most amazing underwater worlds. I also enjoyed seeing the island’s waterfalls, which are the perfect way to refresh yourself after a day of exploring.

Tioman Island mainly has budget accommodation, and prices are reasonable. I’d recommend the  Beach Shack , which offers basic rooms but has an enviable location by the beach with fantastic sunrise views.

What was the weather like? June it was quite hot (around 30C constantly) with some rain but not very much. It was a good time to visit!

Words by Guide Your Travel .

Best Experiences to Discover in Malaysia

Visiting the cameron highlands.

From Kuala Lumpur by road takes 3 hours 30 minutes (the main road into and through the Cameron Highlands gets very busy, so expect delays and possibly additional time added to your trip).

You can also book a day tour from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Highlands is a great place to visit, with amazing landscapes and stunning panoramic views. It’s perfect if you want to explore the great outdoors and escape the heat for a few days!

Cameron Highlands are located along Malaysia’s main mountain range and 5000 feet above sea level. This means the temperature is noticeably cooler and wetter, setting it apart from the rest of Malaysia. It can be a welcome respite from the heat and humidity experienced in other parts of the country.

With acres and acres of green rolling hills, the region almost seems plucked from an English country scene. The difference is that tea plants grow on these hills, and Boh Tea Plantation is Malaysia’s biggest black tea producer. It’s just one of several plantations in the Cameron Highlands and a must-visit in Malaysia.

Boh Tea Plantation was the first set up in the Cameron Highlands. The Russell family from Scotland arrived in 1929 and set about cultivating the land and planting the tea shoots. You can visit either or both of the Boh Tea locations: the original tea plantation, where you can go on a factory tour and enjoy a cuppa in the outdoor cafe. The second is a tasting room on a hilltop with beautiful views.

Walking through the Tea Plantations

While at Boh, you can take a slow stroll or a longer hike through the tea plantation. The pathways are marked so you can’t get lost, and they will take you around the fields and through the jungle. On my visit, we were the only ones in the fields, and it was very tranquil – the only problem was the rain, which stopped our walk.

Another popular walking trail is through the Mossy Forest, although you will need a 4×4 and a guide to reach it. Other things to do in the Cameron Highlands include visiting one of the many strawberry farms, the butterfly and bee farm, or the Kea Farmers Market.

We stayed at the Cameron Highlands Resort , which was incredible. Golfers can also play a round on the resort’s golf course.

What was the weather like? July was cool with scattered showers. The daytime temperature was around 18 degrees Celsius. 

Diving in Sipadan, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours 35 minutes – followed by a road and boat transfer.

When Jacques Cousteau endorses a place, it must be good. It was good enough for me when I packed my dive bag and went to Sipadan in the northeast of Borneo.

Sipadan is an island that looks similar to many other tropical islands. But people don’t come here for the palm trees or the sand. Sipadan’s true charms lie below the surface in an area known as one of the world’s best dive destinations.

From Semporna, I take a boat to Mabul Island, where I am staying with Scuba Junkie, one of the area’s resorts.

It is not a boat trip I care to remember – it is stormy, and our little boat almost gets lost. Mind you, I dare say Sipadan diving is worth every effort.

Discover the Underwater World of Sipadan

Diving in Sipadan is highly restricted, and only a set number of dive permits are distributed daily to the various dive resorts.

If you stay for a few nights, you can snatch one for a day. My persistence to dive in paradise promptly gets “rewarded” with an unfriendly triggerfish encounter before I finally see turtles galore, barracuda tornados, and, of course, sharks.

Even diving around Mabul island is an absolute feast for the eyes, and I discovered my love for muck-diving thanks to a bobtail squid barely bigger than my pinkie fingernail. 

On my way back, I meet Eddie, a bar owner in Semporna. He tells tales of the good old days when he met Jacques Cousteau and told him to “stay away” in no uncertain terms. I admire his candour and cannot help but think I may have done the same to protect this paradise and keep it to myself.

What was the weather like? July is usually considered the hottest month with the least amount of rain; however, we encountered a really bad storm! 

Words by The Very Hungry Mermaid .

Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours 35 minutes .

Climbing Borneo’s Mount Kinabalu is a big challenge. It is not for the faint-hearted and needs at least two full days to complete.

Mount Kinabalu rises 4096m out of the jungle of Sabah and is Malaysia’s tallest mountain. Climbing to Mount Kinabalu’s summit is one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done, but also one of the most rewarding.

On arrival at the park headquarters, all climbs are undertaken with a local guide assigned to each group.

The climb up the mountain starts at the Timpohon Gate at 1866m and continues for 6 km to the Pana Laban rest house at 2373m. It doesn’t sound too far, but this part took me around five hours.

Once at Pana Laban, it was time to rest my sore feet for the remainder of the afternoon before falling gratefully into bed as the sun went down. I was awake again at 2 am to prepare for the final climb to the summit.

Sunrise on Mount Kinabalu’s Summit

This part of the climb was cold and dark, which, combined with the thin air, made the last section even more difficult.

Standing at the top of the mountain on my birthday and watching the sunrise above the clouds made every bit of that hard work worth it.

Mount Kinabalu is around 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. The company organising my climb also provided transfers before and after my climb, so we stayed at the Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centr e .

What was the weather like? In February, my weather was perfect – but only the day before, it was raining, and the poor people did the whole climb in the rain, so I am guessing it’s quite changeable at that time of the year.

Words by Josie Wanders.

Jungle Camping in the Kiulu Valley, Borneo

Malaysia is a front-runner for natural beauty, and a perfect example is Kiulu Valley in the state of Sabah in Borneo, a 60km taxi drive from Kota Kinabalu and the place we visited to experience our jungle trekking and camping trip.

The Kiulu River flows through this valley, and the riverbank was the perfect site to stay for a jungle camp. We stayed in one of the basic bamboo huts along the river bank.

Discovering Life in the Jungle

We trekked in the forest during the day, and a naturalist introduced us to the local plant life and shared traditional knowledge that is still widely used in Malaysia.

Our jungle camp provided us with an angling kit, and we tried our hand at fishing in the river. Call it beginner’s luck; we managed to catch a fish but found out it was more fun letting it go. We spent the evening participating in local music and dancing while enjoying Malay food for dinner.

The high point of our Kiulu experience had to be rafting in the Kiulu River, one of the world’s cleanest water bodies. Although there were many rapids, we rafted under trained instructors’ guidance, so we all stayed safe.

The clear green water splashing on us, the sinking feeling, the subsequent rise, and the resultant adrenaline rush are memories for life.

What was the weather like? In July, it was a little hot and humid during the day, but early mornings and nights were very pleasant.

Words by DelhiFunDos.

Best Wildlife Encounters in Malaysia

Deramakot forest reserve, borneo.

Would you like a chance to spot the elusive Clouded leopard in the wild, see Borneo pygmy elephants, or see a Bornean Orangutan?

Deramakot Forest Reserve in Borneo’s Malaysian state of Sabah is the best place on the island to spot some of the rarest  Borneo animals .

Discover the Wildlife in Borneo

I visited Deramakot twice in my quest to see a Clouded leopard. Before I finally spotted the elusive feline, I saw more wildlife in Deramakot than I could have imagined.

Almost every night, Pygmy elephants caused very welcome roadblocks (and photo opportunities) as they blissfully ignored our truck and refused to move off the road.

Other times, it would be Malayan Porcupines or Sunda skunks (yes, there are skunks in Asia!).  

On our night drives, we saw binturongs, marbled cats, slow lorises, and flying squirrels.

You’ll be amazed at how many flying animals there are in Borneo: Flying lemurs (Colugos), flying squirrels, flying frogs, flying lizards, and even flying snakes! Of course, these animals don’t actually fly, but they are all excellent gliders.

Another great thing about Deramakot is that it is off the tourist radar and never gets crowded. You can’t just ‘drop in’ to Deramakot.

The only way to visit this remote reserve is with a licenced tour operator. Whenever I go to Borneo, I always travel with Adventure Alternative Borneo. These guys were the first commercial outfit to bring wildlife watchers to Deramakot.

Deramakot Forest Accommodation

The accommodation in Deramakot Forest Reserve is limited to three surprisingly comfortable cottages. But there are no shops near Deramakot to pick up food or petrol, so your expedition will include all the supplies: a 4WD truck, a driver, a cook, your guide, and a wildlife spotter. Trust me, a visit to Deramakot is one of the most adventurous places you can visit in Malaysia. 

What was the weather like? It can rain absolutely any time in October, and when it rains, it pours. It’s one of the wettest places on earth. We had quite a few proper downpours during that week. Temperature-wise, it’s usually in the low 30s Celsius.

Words by The Wildlife Diaries.

Kinabatangan River, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan is 2 hours 45 minutes .

We flew into Sandakan and then headed to Borneo’s area, known as the Kinabatangan River, for a wildlife adventure. Here, you can see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in the wild.

Discover the Wild Pygmy Elephants

While here, we found proboscis monkeys, orangutans, monitor lizards, macaques and many different birds. But what made this place truly unique were the Borneo pygmy elephants – the smallest elephants in Asia.

There are only 1,500 of these distinctly different elephants left in the wild. They evolved differently from the mainland elephants when the island of Borneo separated more than 300,000 years ago. They look like babies even when they’re fully grown.

You can take a day trip from Sandakan or stay in one of the river bank lodges – there are basic and luxury lodges available to spot the Borneo wildlife right from the lodge.

There is no National Park Fee to pay here, so you’ll have more money to take boat trips and explore the area.

Early morning and evening boat trips are the best time to spot wildlife in Borneo, and a night-time walk will also get you into the rainforest to see sights you might not usually notice!

It is fabulously peaceful here in the evening, and it is well worth spending at least one night here to wake up and experience the river at dawn.

What was the weather like? In July, the weather in Borneo was hot and sticky, with a bit of rain.

Danum Valley, Borneo

Flight time from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours 35 minutes

One of my absolute favourite places in Malaysia is the Danum Valley in the Sabah region of Borneo, one of the last remaining areas of primaeval rainforest on the island and a fabulous place to see orangutans in the wild.  

There is only one place to stay inside the designated conservation area –  the all-inclusive Borneo Rainforest Lodge .

We arrived at the small airport in Lahad Datu and checked in at their air-conditioned offices before being whisked away in a comfortable car for the two-hour trip, mostly on dirt roads, to our accommodation.

Rainforest Accommodation

The lodge was fantastic, with a vast open-air lounge and restaurant overlooking a river and facing a heavily jungled escarpment.

The self-contained rooms are reached by a series of wooden walkways branching out from the main lodge. 

After relaxing for a while, we were taken on a guided walk along a nearby boardwalk. All of the hikes are accompanied by a guide so that you don’t get lost (all are included in the price).

That night, we took another leisurely walk to see nocturnal animals, including flying frogs.  

Jungle Trekking in Malaysia

We went on two long hikes the next day, starting on a canopy walkway high in the trees. We saw orangutans, red-leaf monkeys, and many birds.

Then, we took a long hike through the jungle to see the top of the escarpment. This was followed by a trip to a waterfall and a pool where fish nibbled the dead skin off our feet (freaky, but fun!).  

That night, we drove in the back of a truck with a huge spotlight to see more nocturnal animals. We saw an enormous giant flying squirrel ‘fly’ and even a glimpse of a Clouded leopard.

The food was excellent, the Bornean wildlife was incredible, and the overall experience was one of the absolute highlights of my trip to Malaysia!

What was the weather like? In May the weather was great. Not too hot or wet.

Words by Travel Collecting.

Please Pin for Future Travel to Malaysia

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Please check out the following Malaysia travel posts:

Kwai Chai Hong: Beautiful Art Murals in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Discover Penang in 3-nights

Is Penang Street Art Still Worth Seeing In 2024?

Chew Jetty: What To See in Penang’s Historic Waterfront Village

Pinang Peranakan Mansion: A Tour of Penang’s Heritage Museum

Blue Mansion Penang Review: Cheong Fatt Tze

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort Review: Beachfront Luxury in Penang

Best Ipoh Itinerary For 2 Days + Cave Temples

Is Ipoh Worth Visiting? Here’s 13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ipoh in Malaysia

Gua Tempurung: Explore the Limestone Cave in Perak, Malaysia

Sepilok Orangutans: Ultimate Bucketlist Orangutan Experience in Borneo

7 Best Places to See Orangutans in the Wild

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire, or accommodation? Check out my resources page to help you plan your trip.

 I would like to receive occasional updates and new travel posts.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Wednesday 17th of March 2021

Wow Malaysia has so many things to offer. I was supposed to travel to Borneo but I accidentally booked Brunei. I really have the trekking in the forests to see Orangutans up in my list. I will definitely plan for it as soon as the pandemic is over.

I have been to the Borneo Islands and absolutely fell in love with the place. As I was reading this article, it reminded me of my visit there and also the need to plan a visit to explore the rest of the places. You have curated a great list of the places and the experiences.

Ambica Gulati

This is such an indepth guide. I would love to see the mosque in the water. I would love to cycle around the paddy fields. Most of all, I would like to try the cuisine. And the unmissable looks like a visit to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve.

Chloe Beaver

Tuesday 16th of March 2021

Malaysia was my first experience with Asia and it is where I absolutely fell in love with the culture & the continent. Although I only had the opportunity to visit Kuala Lumpur, I hope to go back one day to visit Penang! This is a great list, and I might give the scuba diving a go as well!

WhereAngieWanders

you will love Penang, it's just so unique. I hope to return one day and also head to the Perhentian islands and Borneo

Ummi Nadrah

It's always lovely to read about my country from a visitor's perspective. Because the grass is always greener on the other side, it's easy to take for granted the things that we see every day. Anyway, from this list, my favorites are Kuala Lumpur (where I live) and Penang, which I visit at least twice a year. There are some that I haven't been to yet but wish to check out soon once travel restrictions are lifted. Currently we are not allowed to travel interstate.

What a fabulous country to live in! I can't wait to return in the future and experience it some more.

Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

Scams to Avoid

Visiting Kuala Lumpur

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation Guide

Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

The most popular places to visit in Malaysia are stunning — and the country's excellent infrastructure makes getting to them relatively painless.

Although Malaysia is always ranked well among the most visited countries in Asia, China usually steals the limelight and #1 spot. Long-term budget travelers often shun Malaysia as being "too expensive" (mostly because alcohol does cost more than in Thailand). Meanwhile, short-term vacationers in Southeast Asia seem to skip Malaysia for lack of time.

But Malaysia has a lot of beauty, diversity, and adventure on offer, as showcased by these tempting top destinations.

Kuala Lumpur

You'll most likely fly into Kuala Lumpur when traveling to Malaysia, so this one's a no-brainer. But unlike some other big cities in Asia where travelers arrive and get out of town as soon as possible, Kuala Lumpur is a worthwhile destination of its own.

The mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influence means you'll have no shortage of culinary exploits in Malaysia's capital city . The cultural diversity is a big part of Kuala Lumpur's allure. Take a short walk or jump on the extensive train network and you can see the delights of numerous cultures.

Kuala Lumpur has no shortage of unique neighborhoods to explore . Interesting sights such as the Petronas Towers , the Perdana Botanical Garden, and the Menara KL Tower provide plenty of enjoyable distractions before you head farther afield in Malaysia.

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Malaysians are proud of their big island on the west coast — and they should be! The colonial city of Georgetown was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has plenty to offer in the way of museums, a seaside fort, historic homes, and most importantly, a famous street-food scene.

Numerous artists have left their marks in the form of murals along the streets of Georgetown. Cafes, shops, and things to do can be found dotted throughout.

Penang is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to sample delicious street food of all types. The waterfront esplanade known as Gurney Drive in Penang is lined with stalls and eateries for trying local Malay, Chinese, and Indian treats , among others.

The Perhentian Islands

Backpackers and budget travelers love Malaysia's Perhentian Islands , especially Perhentian Kecil — the smaller of the two islands — where fine sand and excellent snorkeling/diving fill the day before parties start at night.

Nearby Perhentian Besar — the big island — caters more to families, couples, and travelers who are willing to spend more to enjoy the blue water and skip some of the partying. Regardless of the island you choose, getting to the Perhentians requires taking a speedboat. There are a few challenges for setting up shop on the islands .

The Perhentian Islands are very seasonal . Accommodation can be difficult to find on Perhentian Kecil in July, the peak month, but the islands are mostly empty during the winter months due to rain and stormy seas.

Malaysian Borneo

The option to exchange dirty concrete for green rainforests and abundant wildlife is only a cheap, quick flight away ! Visitors to Malaysia often stick to the mainland and forget about the natural wonders on earth's third-largest island only a short hop away.

The Malaysian part of Borneo is divided into two states: Sarawak in the south and Sabah in the north. Both have different vibes and charms . The Rainforest World Music Festival held outside of Kuching each summer is one of the most exciting music-and-culture events in Southeast Asia.

From endangered orangutans to rainforest canopy walks and some of the best diving in the world, Malaysian Borneo should definitely be a part of any trip to Malaysia.

Spelled locally as "Melaka," Malaysia's Peranakan city of Malacca is a worthwhile stop for cultural, historical, and colonial sites . UNESCO even declared Malacca a World Heritage Site in 2008.

Visitors are rarely disappointed by the old town in Malacca. If nothing else, the relaxed vibe is pleasant enough to keep people around for a few days. The close proximity to Kuala Lumpur makes getting there by bus easy. Train isn't an option in Malacca.

Tip: Many shops and museums close in Malacca on Tuesdays — plan your visit accordingly!

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

Taman Negara literally means "national park" in Malay, and well, that's what it is! Taman Negara is Malaysia's oldest national park and is considered to be one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests. A long canopy walkway gives visitors a chance to see life high in the trees that normally isn't visible from the ground.

You can enjoy waterfalls and beautiful trekking, bird spotting, rafting, fishing, night safaris, and there's even a chance to see wild elephants — if you're very lucky. Tourists sleep across the river in Kuala Tahan and then take cheap boats to the park entrance.

Some serious guided trekking is available in Taman Negara as is caving.

Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's green Cameron Highlands are one of the few places in Southeast Asia where you'll actually want a jacket or warm blanket at night. After sweating across tropical climates, you may appreciate the change of climate.

The Cameron Highlands are like nowhere else in Malaysia. You'll see plenty of lush scenery, tour beautiful tea plantations, and enjoy access to decent hiking trails that weave through plantations and around volcanoes.

Strawberry farms, butterfly gardens, and flower greenhouses are all enjoyable distractions to be found in the Cameron Highlands. The climate provides good conditions for growing fresh vegetables and producing delicious local honey.

Tioman Island

Located on Malaysia's east coast not too far from Singapore, Tioman Island is a different kind of island destination . Accommodation and excellent diving are surprisingly inexpensive; development is relatively minimal for such a nice island. Abundant nature and scenery make up for the island's severe shortcomings in the culinary department.

Tioman is carved into many different beaches; you'll have to choose when arriving by boat. Some beaches are secluded and surrounded by jungle. ABC Beach is arguably the most popular beach, particularly for budget travelers. Moving between beaches by boat is the regular option, unless you're up for a jungle hike through the interior.

Tioman Island enjoys duty-free status just as Langkawi does, but don't even consider taking your tax-free liquor across the border into Singapore !

simonlong / Getty Images

Located off the northwest corner of Malaysia, Pulau Langkawi is one of the top island destinations in Malaysia for both foreign tourists and Malaysians.

With an airport and ferries connecting it to the mainland, as well as a large tourist infrastructure, Langkawi could unfairly be called Malaysia's version of Phuket, the busiest island in Thailand.

Langkawi has many tourist attractions on offer such as Malaysia's largest indoor aquarium, a cable car, and the Sky bridge that allows views across the island. Unfortunately, the drone of jet skis cause the busiest beaches to be less serene. Duty-free status means that beer is sometimes barely more expensive than bottled water!

Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi can be found for as cheap as US $20! Getting to the island is fast and inexpensive .

Selangor actually describes Malaysia's most developed and populated state that leads up to Kuala Lumpur's urban sprawl. Here you'll find a Formula One racetrack, the National Zoo of Malaysia, and enormous theme parks including an indoor snow park.

Selangor is busy and booming; shopping malls sprawl in many directions. When you can't possibly shop anymore, head to the nearby Genting Highlands — Malaysia's version of Vegas perched on top of a mountain. The First World Hotel and Plaza is the world's largest hotel with 10,500 rooms and a theme park.

But Selangor isn't just about concrete and glowing signs: The famous Batu Caves there are a Hindu shrine with the largest statue of Lord Murugan (the god of war) in the world. The Batu Caves draw large crowds, especially during the Thaipusam holiday .

When you're ready to be wooed by nature, the abundance of fireflies along the river in Kuala Selangor is a dazzling spectacle worth seeing!

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

Weather in Malaysia: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

July in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

June in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

Wander-Lush

Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

Where to go in Malaysia – 30 of the very best places to visit in Malaysia, as recommended by locals and travel experts.

From the steel-and-glass metropolis of KL to the jungles of Borneo, Malaysia has to be one of the most diverse countries in Asia.

Visitors drawn in by Malaysia’s legendary national parks and tropical islands usually find the food culture , street art and layered history is reason enough to linger a little longer.

Despite having visited Malaysia half a dozen times, I’ve still only scratched the surface of this diverse nation. To help with curating this list of the best places to visit in Malaysia, I asked a group of experienced travellers and locals to share their recommendations.

This guide explores some of the best things to do in Malaysia for every interest, travel style and budget. From must-see cities to small towns, cultural sites and religious monuments to hiking and ethical wildlife encounters, the best beaches, islands and resorts, this list has something for everyone.

If we’ve forgotten to include your favourite place in Malaysia, please let us know in the comments!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

How to get around Malaysia

I use Bookaway to reserve bus and train tickets when I travel in Malaysia. You can use the site to check up-to-date routes and times and compare prices between different companies. Online payment is secure and it’s easy to change or cancel your tickets if plans change.

→ Check timetables and book tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to go in Malaysia: Cities & culture

Kuala lumpur.

Anyone who’s wondering where to go in Malaysia will inevitably wind up incorporating Kuala Lumpur into their itinerary. Malaysia’s capital city is simply a must-see for first-time visitors. The scale of the city will blow you away.

KL has the glossy veneer of a big, anonymous city, but beneath the surface, it’s a hotbed of history, culture and cuisine. Whether you only have time for a short layover in KL or you’re planning an extended stay, there are a couple of things you need to check off your list.

The first is the iconic Petronas Towers . Viewed from the park below, they cut an immaculate figure against the inky blue night sky and define KL’s urban horizon. Take a trip up to the viewing deck (advance reservations essential – book tickets here ) for a magnificent view of the city.

Spend a few hours wandering the Central Market and Chinatown precinct (be sure to visit Petaling Street and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple ), both lively destinations for shopping, eating and socialising. Save some of your pennies for KL’s beautiful boutique gift shops, including Batik Boutique where you can find gorgeous handmade souvenirs . A stop at the National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara) and the nearby Islamic Arts Museum is another must-do.

When night falls, head to the Jalan Alor Night Food Court and see how many Malaysian delicacies you can squeeze in. If you have more time, there are dozens of convenient day trip opportunities from KL – keep reading to discover the best of the best!

George Town (Penang)

Possibly Malaysia’s most popular tourist destination, George Town is the biggest city and capital of Penang island. There are three things George Town is best known for: Street food , street art , and vibrant laneways dotted with heritage architecture .

You could easily spend a week or more in George Town exploring the UNESCO Heritage Listed Old Town , which consumes the eastern end of the island. Stroll down the iconic Penang five-foot ways and step back in history, keeping an eye out for Ernest Zacharevic’s best murals along the way. Join a food tour to sample the best Penang eats – there are simply too many to list here – and immerse yourself in the local craft scene at the Batik Painting Museum .

Other must-sees include Cheong Fatt Tze (The Blue Mansion) and the nearby Goddess of Mercy Temple . Climb Penang Hill for an epic view of the island. Set aside an evening for Chew Jetty , a laid-back waterside clan community where you can get a small taste of what Penang must have been like during its heyday as a Straights trading hub.

The quieter cousin of George Town, Ipoh boasts many of the same virtues – amazing street art, historic laneways and architecture, a fantastic hawker market scene – only without the crowds of Penang.

The capital of central Malaysia’s Perak state, Ipoh is a captivating city that oozes history and charm from the cracks in the plasterwork and flaking shutters of its buildings. Walk the Ipoh Heritage Trail , a mapped route that takes in 27 of the city’s most important landmarks, including the British Colonial railway station , to peel back the layers of Ipoh’s history.

Some of the best things to do in Ipoh revolve around eating and drinking. Malaysia’s iconic white coffee , an iced drink made with coffee beans soaked in margarine, was born here in Ipoh and is served in sweet little local cafes across the city. Ipoh Bean Sprout Chicken is a must-try for dinner and can be found at any of the hawker markets.

While you’re pounding the pavement, keep an eye out for the large-scale murals painted by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic (the same man responsible for George Town’s street art). Hundreds of smaller works by local artists and collectives are sprinkled throughout the city, concentrated around Mural Art’s Lane .

Beyond the city limits, Ipoh gives way to the lush landscapes of Perak, with its thick rainforest and limestone caves . Mirror lakes and hidden temples are waiting to be explored via walking tracks – including the magnificent Perak Cave Temple .

Capital of Malaysian Borneo’s semi-autonomous Sarawak state, Kuching has a lovely laid-back feel. The Kuching Waterfront precinct sprawls out along the beautiful Kuching river, reflecting the golden roof of the New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building .

Dilapidated shophouses, curling alleyways and eclectic architecture define Kuching’s centre. Wander the brightly painted alleyways around India Street , with their fabric vendors and fragrant spice markets, and spot orang-utan-themed street art by Ernest Zacharevic .

Like all Malaysian cities, Kuching has a great food scene. Choon Hui Cafe is a local institution – the prawn laksa and popiah ( Fujianesespring roll) are both must-eats. Other dishes to try in Kuching include kolo mee (yellow noodles cooked Kuching-style) and Sarawak laksa .

Culture lovers will appreciate Kuching’s excellent museums. The Museum of Sarawak , which catalogues Iban culture, Textile Museum and Tun Jugah Collection , a private collection of hand-woven textiles displayed alongside Iban artefacts, are all worth the ticket price. For the perfect Kuching souvenir , look for Iban black-and-white rattan mats and other Bornean antiques in Kuching’s Main Bazaar .

Kuching is a departure point for exploring Sarawak’s natural beauty and Iban culture, with river boat rides, longhouse homestays and jungle treks all within a few hours of the city. Don’t miss Semenggoh Nature Reserve (more on that later), a wonderful orang-utan sanctuary just outside Kuching.

Kota Kinabalu

Recommended by Khushboo, Munni of All Trades

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu – or KK as it’s fondly known – is considered the gateway city for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Borneo. However, it’s fast emerging as a popular tourist destination in its own right.

To experience the true beauty of Kota Kinabalu, you must visit the Jesselton Point Waterfront . It’s perfect for anyone who’s looking for delicious local food and scenic views. Tourists also have the option to take a ferry to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park or one of the five islands that are just 15 minutes away. Sipping on a beer in a local cafe at Jesselton as you watch the sun set or enjoying karaoke with friends is a wonderful way to end the day after your island trip.

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is a great place for anyone looking to experience Sabah’s rich heritage. During your half-day trip to Mari Mari, you can witness traditional dance performances, hunting and fishing practices practiced by the region’s five ethnic groups: Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, Murut and Dusun.

For adventure enthusiasts, a hike to Mount Kinabalu is of the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu . The hikes are often overbooked so it is advisable to make a reservation in advance. Be sure to spend an evening by the iconic city mosque, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu , where you can enjoy some peace and solitude.

A convenient day trip from Kuala Lumpur , Melaka (Malacca) is a historic port city set on Malaysia’s southwestern coast. With its layers of Malay, Nyonya, Portuguese, Dutch and English heritage, Melaka perfectly captures Malaysia’s multicultural spirit and multifaceted history.

Start in the Dutch-era Stadthuys square , Melaka’s most recognisable landmark. The 1753-built Christ Church stands proudly at top of the square, surrounded by a flurry of colourful vendors and cafes organised around beautifully manicured gardens. The cacophony of food, souvenir and bric-a-brac stalls continues down Jonker Street . If you’re wondering what to eat in Melaka, Nyonya Laksa is the best local dish to sink your teeth into.

Above the waterfront, St. Paul’s Church and Famosa Fort offer interesting ruins and panoramic viewpoints. The Melaka Straits Mosque , which juts out into the water on a narrow peninsular, is one of the most beautiful mosques in all of Malaysia.

Recommended by Sharon, Dive into Malaysia

For somewhere off the tourist trail with plenty of local charm, visit Taiping! Located near the west coast of peninsular Malaysia close to Penang, Taiping is easy to visit by train or bus from Kuala Lumpur or anywhere in the western region of Malaysia.

Taiping itself has similar charms to Penang with street art, great food and colonial architecture , but without the crowds. It was one of the first cities to be established in Malaysia and has many firsts – the first railway station, first museum, first post office, first wet market and more.

A trip to Taiping should start with a walk around the central colonial area to see the well-preserved architecture while looking out for street art. Next stop is Muzium Perak to learn more about this part of Malaysia. Finally, finish at Taman Tasik Taiping , Taiping’s famous gardens. These 64-hectares of lagoons and grassland are a great place to relax, look out for monitor lizards or take a paddle on a paddleboat. Read more about Taiping here.

The most delicious way to cool down from the heat is at Ansari Famous Cendol for one of Malaysia’s best shaved ice treats. To taste many of the local dishes, head to Pusat Makanan Taman Tasik , a popular foodcourt by the lake.

For a comfortable place to stay in a central location, try the Louis Hotel .

Bukit Mertajam

By Marco Ferrarese, Penang Insider

Everybody goes to UNESCO-listed George Town on Penang island for an overdose of food and street art. Few people realise that right across the Penang bridge, the town of Bukit Mertajam in Seberang Prai, the mainland part of Penang state, has plenty of interesting stuff to do as well.

Bukit Mertajam is an offbeat, beautiful town with strong ties to the local Chinese triads (yes, the local mafia). Set next to the hill of the same name, there’s hiking galore in Cherok Tokun reserve .

The old town of Bukit Mertajam, developed around the Pek Kong Cheng temple (sadly partially destroyed by fire in 2019), has a lot of great food. Try BM Best Cendol (self-titled as such, and for good reason) and the ‘Black Man Rojak’, a praised local stall selling Malaysian rojak – pieces of tropical fruit drenched in thick, black sweet-sour sauce. Also try the famous BM Cup Rice, which dishes up delicious duck and pork meat with local rice.

Don’t forget to look around – Bukit Mertajam’s old town has decrepit, old-world buildings that are much more authentic than Penang’s gentrified boutique hotels and cookie-cutter cafes.

There are many opportunities to get out and about in nature near Bukit Mertajam. For starters, you can try the Cherok Tokun hiking trail that leads to the TV towers on top of Bukit Mertajam. Take a stroll at Bukit D.O. , a nature park for local hiking enthusiasts. Pay a visit to St. Anne’s Church , an important pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over India and Southeast Asia who come here to celebrate every year at the end of July.

During Malaysia’s nation-wide Hungry Ghost Festival , Bukit Mertajam hosts the tallest statue of the King of Hell Tay Su Yeah.

Penang’s gentrification? Please leave it across the Penang bridge and come to Bukit Mertajam for a timeless Malaysian experience.

Kuala Kangsar

Located in central Malaysia’s Perak state, the town of Kuala Kangsar is an easy day trip from Ipoh by train. Known as the ‘royal city’, it served as the seat for the Shah of Perak between 1877 and 1887.

Ubudiah Mosque is considered one of Malaysia’s most distinctive mosques and is reason enough to take a trip to KK. Designed by British architect Arthur Benison Hubback (also responsible for Kuala Lumpur’s railway station), it’s defined by golden domes and towering palm trees. The bands of colour on the facade are created from Italian marble. When the mosque was being built, it’s rumoured that two of the Sultan’s elephants damaged some of the marble tiles, delaying construction!

Apart from the mosque, KK boasts a number of other distinctive landmarks, making it an architecture-lover’s paradise. The Istana Kenangan , a distinctive building that houses the Royal Museum of Perak, Baitul Anor , a decrepit mansion house that was once home to Perak’s prince, and turn-of-the-century-built Victoria Bridge are just some of the highlights.

Recommended by Sonakshi and Mainak, Places In Pixel

Putrajaya is the present federal administrative centre of the Malaysian Government. Being only 35 km from KL city centre, it can easily be explored as a day trip from KL .

The most sought-after place to visit in Putrajaya is the Putra Mosque . Its nickname, the ‘pink mosque’, comes from the rose-tinted granite. Putra Mosque’s Islamic-architecture artistically blends traditional designs, local craftsmanship and the use of indigenous materials. As with any mosque, modest dress is essential if you want to enter the prayer hall and enjoy the elegantly designed interiors.

No trip to Putrajaya is complete without taking a tour of the Perdana Putra complex , which houses the Prime Minister’s Office and other administrative offices. Although visitors are not allowed to go inside, it’s free to admire the exterior and gardens (which includes a couple of Instagrammable spots!).

Other interesting things to do in Putrajaya include driving the beautiful Seri Wawasan Bridge , enjoying the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta , visiting the Putrajaya Botanical Garden , and the Steel Mosque . For adventure seekers, Putrajaya lake offers multiple outdoor activities including stand-up paddle boarding, water jetting and flyboarding.

Johor Bahru

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins

If you want a bit more modern city life before diving back into the jungle or exploring Malaysia’s beaches, Johor Bahru makes for an interesting change from Kuala Lumpur. The city is located right down in the south of the mainland peninsula, on the border with Singapore .

And indeed Johor Bahru could be called Malaysia’s answer to Singapore. It is set up to attract visitors from the neighbouring city state with much of the sparkle, but at much lower prices. Excellent shopping and fabulous restaurants are what JB is known for.

If you want to go from JB to Singapore itself, then it’s just a 45-minute bus ride away. But don’t just pass through – this place is a destination in its own right.

With Legoland Malaysia and Hello Kitty Town both in close proximity, this is a great destination for families with young kids.

Batu Caves in Selangor, just north of KL, can be counted among Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations. As well as being rather Instagram-friendly, this is an extremely important spiritual pilgrimage site. I recommend visiting with a local guide to make the most of the experience.

The limestone cave complex is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity. In late January/early February, the Hindu Thaipusam festival is celebrated here. If you can brave the heat and humidity, this is the perfect time to visit.

Outside of festival time, visitors can explore the largest cave, Temple Cave , accessible via 270 steps (now painted in a rainbow of colours). The towering gold statue of Murugan is the tallest of its kind in the world.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Recommended by Rose, Where Goes Rose

Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple on the island of Penang is yet more proof of Malaysia’s diversity. While there are Hindu and Taoist temples, mosques and churches in the nearby city of George Town, this iconic temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia. 

Built in 1980, Kek Lok Si is home to temples, statues, prayer halls and towers with impressive views over Penang. You could easily spend a half-day exploring the complex. Don’t miss the three-storey shrine (as the tallest building for miles around, it would be hard to), donated by King Bhumibol of Thailand. Here there’s a vegetarian restaurant as well as a few shops. You also have the option to pay 3 MYR to catch a lift to the enormous Kuan Yin female goddess statue.

An ideal time to visit Kek Lok Si is for Chinese New Year celebrations in February when the whole temple is illuminated by strobe lights and a firework show takes place.

It takes just 30 minutes to reach Kek Lok Si Temple from George Town by bus or taxi. The nearest town is Air Itam, where you should stop afterwards for a bowl of assam laksa at Pasar Air Itam Laksa , voted one of the best foods in the world by CNN.

Where to go in Malaysia: Nature, adventure & wildlife

Cameron highlands.

Recommended by Luke, The Coastal Campaign

Cameron Highlands is a spectacular part of the Malaysian hill country covered in lush green tea fields. Visitors come here to see the beautiful mountain scenery and to enjoy the cooler temperatures that comes with the higher elevation.

The number one thing to do in Cameron Highlands is visit a tea plantation and enjoy a cup of the local brew. One of the most popular choices is the BOH Tea Plantation , and that’s because the tasting room has spectacular views from the veranda perched on the hillside. Visitors can also enjoy hikes in the surrounding jungle, the local farmers’ markets , and a walk through the enchanting Mossy Forest .

After a full day of exploring, try Restoran Kumar which serves delicious Indian-style food for very reasonable prices. It’s found in the town of Tanah Rata.

Cameron Highlands is a beautiful part of the country with unique scenery and climate compared to the rest of Malaysia and is absolutely worth visiting.

Teman Negara

Recommended by Stephen, Asia-Hikes

Taman Negara (literally ‘National Park’) is the first protected area in Malaysia, established in 1939, and one of the oldest deciduous rainforests in the world . Easy to visit as a weekend away from Kuala Lumpur (but worthy of a month of exploring in its own right), this expanse of more than 4,300 square kilometres has options for every traveller.

Laid-back weekenders out of Kuala Lumpur might opt for easy exploring – boat rides and short hikes to remote jungle waterfall, Lata Berkoh , canopy walks high in the treetops, or just relaxing at the luxurious Mutiara Taman Negara Resort , which offers guided interpretive walks on the in-house boardwalk.

More adventurous travellers might opt for two to three-day guided hiking in Taman Negara , overnighting in the famous ‘Elephant Cave’ and slipping along muddy jungle trails and through countless streams. For the ultimate Taman Negara adventure, consider the strenuous weeklong round trip to the top of Gunung Tahan , the highest point of Peninsular Malaysia at 2,187 metres.

Almost all tourist services, including restaurants and accommodations, are based in the village of Kuala Tahan across the Tembaling river from the entrance to Taman Negara. A wide range of budget and mid-range accommodation options are available, and a plethora of tour operators make it easy to book guided hikes and other excursions on-site.

Gunung Mulu National Park

Recommended by Oksana and Max, Drink Tea & Travel

Gunung Mulu National Park is one of Malaysia’s true gems. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extensive underground cave network and unique mountain peaks.

Mulu Caves is the longest cave system in the world by surface area. Take some time to explore the Lang Cave, Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, Wind Cave and Lady Cave. They each have their own unique attributes such as rock formations, coral structures, and interesting patches of habitat.

At Deer Cave, you can see the mass bat exodus . From 5pm to 7pm each day, bats numbering in the thousands leave the cave at the same time in search of food from the forest. There is a viewing platform and the event can last for 45 minutes.

Outside of the caves, Gunung Mulu National Park is famous for the Mulu Pinnacles , a series of otherworldly limestone formations that require a three-day hike to reach. It is a somewhat difficult hike, but well worth the exertion.

Recommended by Rachita, Nomllers

Safely tucked away on the largest island in Asia, Sabah is a relatively unexplored destination in Malaysia. Sabah is home to more than 32 different ethnic groups and is a great place to learn more about local culture. Apart from that, Sabah is also quite well-known for its rainforests, beaches, and abundant wildlife . Most of the state is covered with reserves or parks.

When visiting Sabah, make sure you try a few local dishes such as Tuaran noodles, Butod, Roti Cobra, and a lot more. While the best local food is served at homestays , you have to try Roti Cobra at Kedai Makan Islamic Restoran in Kota Kinabalu . It is simply delicious.

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and is a popular hiking spot. If you’re interested in exploring the coral reefs , then head to the nearby islands for a fun diving experience. And if you’re a nature lover, then a visit to Kinabalu Park , Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must.

From climbing Mount Kinabalu to meeting headhunting warriors and nomadic sea gypsies, Sabah is a place you won’t soon forget.

Danum Valley

Recommended by James Ian, Travel Collecting

Danum Valley is an area of virgin rainforest in the Sabah area of Malaysian Borneo. While much of the island has been deforested in order to create palm oil plantations, the Danum Valley Conservation Area has been protected.

There are only two places to stay – the Danum Valley Field Center, just outside the area, offers basic accommodation and limited guides. The second option, Borneo Rainforest Lodge , is smack bang in the middle of the virgin rainforest. Rates include meals served inside the beautiful, open lodge that faces a forested escarpment.

Danum Valley is one of the best places in Borneo to witness Malaysia’s incredible flora and wildlife. Highlights include guided hikes to lookouts, waterfalls, and a small river where fish come and nibble your feet (great for exfoliation!), a canopy walk built through the tops of trees (with excellent chances of seeing orang-utans and hornbills ), and a night drive in the back of a truck with a powerful spotlight (possible sightings include giant flying squirrels, lemurs and even cloud leopards ).

Gua Tempurung

Recommended by Iuliya, Vidadeliya

Gua Tempurung is something of a ‘secret’ spot, even among Malaysians. Tucked away in Gopeng, Perak – some 3 hours’ drive from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur – Gua Tempurung is the largest limestone cave in West Malaysia .

The best thing to do is join one of four caving tours . If you’re particularly adventurous, try the epic 4-hour long Grand Tour. This not only takes you through the incredible limestone stalactites and stalagmites, but also deep into the belly of a cave once used as a communist hideaway. You will have to crawl through narrow cave rivers, climb steep slopes and slide down ledges, all in the pitch dark! For a full account of what it’s like, check out this blog post . 

If caving doesn’t take your fancy, there are many other things you can do nearby, including whitewater rafting , jungle trekking (to search for the ever-elusive Rafflesia!), or waterfall abseiling .

For food, the foodie hub of Ipoh is a mere 30-minutes away. Top choices include the local salty chicken and taufufa , a sweet tofu-based dessert.

Recommended by Marya, The BeauTraveler

Situated in the Kelabit Highlands near the Indonesian border in East Kalimantan, Bario is a small community of 13 to 16 indigenous Kelabit villages . If you’re looking for a remote place to experience authentic indigenous culture, Bario is a great choice.

Bario may be less popular than other destinations in Sarawak, such as Niah Cave or Gunung Mulu, but it’s no less interesting. Organise your accommodation at one of the longhouses and immerse yourself in the local culture during your stay in town. Some accommodations include meals in the booking package, so you can taste the local food provided by your host.

A great time to visit Bario is in June/July, when the area hosts Pesta Nukenan , a showcase of local food and culture.

Travelling overland takes days, thus flights from Miri, Marudi or Kuching are the most convenient way to get to Bario. Before you go, make sure you have enough cash with you since there’s no ATM available (there’s no phone or internet connection either).

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Kuching is one of the most accessible places in Malaysia to see semi-wild orang-utans. If you want a quick taste of the Borneo jungle, this is a perfect half-day trip.

Established in the 70s, the patch of rainforest is home to more than 30 endangered orang-utans , all orphaned or rescued from captivity. The centre trains them to survive in the wild.

A tightly controlled viewing area is open twice daily at 9am and 3pm. Carers provide fruit to entice the orang-utans – but whether or not they surface from the thickets is entirely up to them. The best time to visit Semenggoh is during the fruiting season. We went in August and saw half a dozen orang-utans.

Semenggoh is located just 30 kilometres from Kuching and is easy to reach by car or taxi.

Where to go in Malaysia: Islands & beaches

Recommended by Cathy, Mummy Travels

This beautiful tropical island in the north of Malaysia might be small – you could drive around it in just 3 hours – but Langkawi has plenty to tempt visitors, from glorious golden beaches to the wildlife of its lush jungle.

The biggest attractions are the Skycab and Skybridge . The world’s steepest cable car takes you from the Oriental Village complex to a bridge suspended 100 metres in the air for amazing views across the island. If you’re feeling energetic, you can trek partway.

Along with its other attractions, Oriental Village is home to Art in Paradise , Langkawi’s 3D art museum, the biggest of its kind in Malaysia, where you can pose with artwork designed to trick the eye. Huge fun, it’s also ideal during rainy season or as a way to escape the heat.

But Langawki’s biggest attractions are natural. Take a boat tour through the mangroves of the protected Kilim Geoforest park , see bats roosting in Gua Kelawar cave , eagles soaring above the karst peaks , and head out to some of the smaller islands.

Not to forget the beaches: the white sands of Tanjung Rhu are among the loveliest, busy Pantai Cenang is great for water sports and beach bars, while minerals turn the sand of Pantai Pisar Hitam black.

Port Dickson

Recommended by Allison, Urbanite Diary

Port Dickson is a coastal town about 1.5 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. One of the country’s most popular beach destinations due to its proximity to the capital, the English name originated from the British High Officer, Sir John Frederick Dickson, who was posted at the Straits Settlement during the end of the 19th century.

Top things to do here include a visit to the many beaches along the coastal road. Teluk Kemang is the most popular one, and due to the street market located right in front of it, the most crowded. Other famous sites to visit are the Cape Rachado Lighthouse , the oldest lighthouse in Malaysia built by the Portuguese, as well as the Wan Loong Temple , an ornate Chinese Temple that pays homage to several oriental deities, such as the Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) and the Monkey King. For family travellers with kids, the Port Dickson Army Museum is an interesting place to visit.

Being so close to the sea, Port Dickson has some great seafood restaurants for foodies. Local favourites include Weng Yin Seafood Village, Chardin Seaview Restaurant and Double Queue Thai Cuisine.

Last but not least, one of the highlights of Port Dickson is staying in an overwater chalet . Although the sea water here is not as pristine as some of the other beach destinations in Malaysia, it is still an enjoyable experience to look out to the sea from your room while listening to the sound of the waves. Recommended hotels are Avillion Port Dickson and Lexis Hibiscus .

Sipadan Island

Recommended by Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

Sipadan island in Borneo is the top dive spot in Malaysia and often rated as one of the best places to dive in the world .

Surrounding the island, there is a massive coral wall close to shore that drops 300 metres straight down. Strong currents flowing past the reef bring sharks, big pelagic fish and unreal marine life, creating an amazing wall dive.

This is an incredibly biodiverse spot with huge green turtles , big schools of massive bumphead parrot fish, big eye trevally, and reef sharks hunting in the area. The island’s most famous dive site is Barracuda Point , where you are often engulfed by massive schools of barracuda.

All these incredible marine animals swim close to shore and in the past, divers could walk from their hotel room and jump from the beach into this amazing natural aquarium. If you’re not a diver, Sipadan also offers fantastic snorkelling .

The Malaysian government has taken bold steps to preserve this diving mecca and the island. Since 2004, only divers with the necessary permits are allowed on the island. All resorts were relocated to nearby islands, and only 178 divers per day are granted permits. This is policed and strictly enforced.

Sipadan is very popular, so book your accommodation and diving from the nearby island, Mabul, ahead of time.

Perhentian Islands

Recommended by Lotte, Phenomenal Globe

The beautiful Perhentian Islands are located just off Malaysia’s northeast coast. The largest islands are Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, but there are several small, uninhabited islands in this amazing archipelago as well.

For adventurous travellers, diving in the Perhentian Islands will be an unforgettable experience as the underwater world here is spectacular. If you don’t want to go scuba diving, consider snorkelling instead. There are several (short) hiking trails on Perhentian Kecil , just be sure to bring plenty of water as it gets very hot and humid, especially between April and June.

Coral Bay is located on the west side of Perhentian Kecil and is the perfect place to admire the sunset while enjoying a cocktail on the beach at one of the restaurants or bars. For food, there is no better place to eat fresh seafood (often barbecued). Be sure to try some freshly caught fish during your stay.

If you choose Perhentian Kecil as your base, BuBu Resort is a great place to stay. At Perhentian Besar, the Tuna Bay Island Resort is an excellent option.

Redang Island

Recommended by Kirsten, Sand in My Curls

There are many reasons to visit Malaysia , and Redang Island is definitely one of them. Pulau Redang is one of those postcard-perfect islands with bright white sand and warm azure water.

Located off the east coast of Malaysia and part of the Coral Triangle between Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Indonesia, it’s a global centre for marine biodiversity. No trip would be complete without snorkelling or scuba diving . You can learn to scuba or get started with a discovery dive.

But there are more than just water activities available on the island.

Head to the Taaras Resort for a visit to the SEATRU Turtle Lab . Here, you’ll learn all about the turtle life cycle, predators, and how the lab measures the gentle creatures. April to October is hatching season and the perfect time to see the baby turtles being released into the sea. 

The interior of the island is packed with jungle, and there are a bunch of hiking routes choose from. Most aren’t that difficult and will only take a couple of hours. If you’re lucky, you’ll see rare plants, monitor lizards, monkeys and all sorts of colourful birds.

The best place to eat in Redang is at the Laguna Food Court , where you can sample local delicacies at affordable prices. Be sure to try the fish head curry – it’s a favourite in Malaysia.

Tioman Island

By Vivien and Aaron, The Dharma Trails

Tioman Island is located off Malaysia’s east coast and is accessible by ferry. It’s a perfect getaway for anyone interested in eco travel due to its natural beauty and abundant wildlife .

Apart from the stunning beaches and amazing coral reefs, there are jungle walking trails and waterfall hikes that offer unique insight into the tropical flora and fauna.

Alternatively, you can relax on the beach with an ice-cold beer and enjoy some of the great local restaurants. Be sure to check out Golden Dish Cafe , who grow their own organic vegetables, use locally caught fish, and can also whip up some traditional, herbal drinks with medicinal properties.

The Juarta Turtle Project at Mentawak Beach works with the local community to educate and protect marine life. They offer volunteering experiences for those willing to stay a while.

Where to go in Malaysia: Resorts

Avani sepang goldcoast resort, sepang.

Recommended by Stephanie, History Fangirl

The gorgeous town of Sepang is home to the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort , which has the distinction of being one of the least expensive overwater bungalow resorts anywhere in the world.

Located on the coast roughly halfway between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, it’s the perfect place for couples and solo travellers looking to relax and rejuvenate. If you are a spa lover, check into the resort and soak up all the amenities. Schedule yourself a few treatments so you can take full advantage of your surroundings.

If you want to explore Sepang itself, visit the beautiful nearby mosque, or enjoy a mangrove river cruise . Make sure you set aside some time to see the absolutely stunning sunsets over the water. They are some of the most vibrant anywhere in the world.

You can get to Sepang from Kuala Lumpur by bus, train, or by hiring a private driver.

Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands

Recommended by Sandy and Vyjay, Voyager

Resorts World Genting is an integrated leisure centre on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali, about 55 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. It’s a favourite holiday getaway popular among locals as well as tourists.

Resorts World Genting is a collection of premium hotels, resorts, shopping arcades, theme parks, and restaurants. It is a complete leisure and entertainment destination that also has the advantage of enjoying pleasant temperatures throughout the year. One of the largest hotels in the world, the First World Hotel , is located inside.

Some of the top things to do in Genting include a visit to the Chin Swee Temple , a virtual reality experience at The Void , and the Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park. Whether you’re looking for local cuisine, Mexican, Italian or Pan Asian vegetarian fare , there are a plethora of cafes and fine dining restaurants to cater to every palate. The famous local desserts like ice kacang and cendol are not to be missed, either.

Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi

Berjaya Hills is a resort theme park set in the cool hills above KL, adjacent to the Genting Highlands. Similar to Vietnam’s Ba Na Hills in Danang , it was created in the picture of a European village (in this case, France’s Colmar Tropicale). It’s definitely one of the more touristy places to visit in Malaysia, but if you’re travelling with kids, it’s a fun way to break from the city.

The centre of the small town is dominated by Bavarian-style houses , each containing a restaurant or cafe (most of them dishing up European cuisine). Botanical Gardens and Japanese Gardens , a golf course and a number of shrines are embedded in the forest beyond the town.

Malaysia essentials

Here are some of the resources I use when planning a trip to Malaysia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Malaysia on Kiwi.com , a booking site that mixes and matches airlines to find the best route (if you miss your connection, you get your money back).

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Malaysia and apply for an expedited visa online.

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to your hotel or pre-purchase your KLIA Airport Train tickets online and skip the queue.

SHORT ON TIME? Try this KL layover city tour to see the best of the city in a short period of time.

SIM CARD: Purchase an Airalo eSIM for Malaysia and get instant access to the net when you arrive.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Malaysia on Agoda or book a Malaysia hostel .

BUS & TRAIN TICKETS: Buy your bus or train tickets online in advance using Bookaway .

MARKET TOURS & COOKING CLASSES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Malaysia here on Cookly .

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Malaysia here on Get Your Guide.

MALAYSIA GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Malaysia .

Which of these beautiful places in Malaysia do you want to visit? Do you have any extra recommendations for travellers wondering where to go in Malaysia? Share your best tips in the comments below!

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

Hai Thanks for sharing the list of places to visit in & around Malaysia it help me as a ready reckoner for me to visit the places. I’m planning to visit the incredible country Malaysia Truly Asia in the coming Yr.2024 Thanks once gain !

So nice of you. Very good explanation and beautiful places you mentioned.

So many great places in Malaysia that I missed. I will just have to go back soon!

Ahhh you and your photos make Malaysia seem absolutely incredible and enticing. I hope one day I can go to every one of these places. It’s hard to pick a top place, though. Maybe Kilim Geoforest park or Gunung Mulu National Park? Thank you for this comprehensive post!

So many amazing places I haven’t visited in Malaysia yet! Can’t wait for travel to open up again and explore some of these places. And maybe even go back to places and take better photos;) I’ll keep this list handy for when I do travel.

After reading your post, I am dying to visit Malaysia. I hope I start travelling soon after everything settles down. I am saving this post for future reference.

Thanks for this comprehensive blog! I’ve had Ipoh on my list for some time now, but I see I need to add sooooo many more places thanks to your blog 🇲🇾Pinning & saving it for future travel inspo.

Thanks Shelley! Ipoh is my favourite place in Malaysia for sure 🙂

Malaysia is such an incredible country! I’ve been twice and there is still so much more for me to explore. Definitely pinning this to reference for my next trip!

All of these spots look so beautiful! Malaysia is next on my Southeast Asia bucket list. I’m definitely keeping this article handy. 🙂

This is such a great post!! I already know that there are so many beautiful places in Malaysia but with this article, I know that I will love this country!

What an awesome list of the best places to visit in Malaysia. I’ve been to Malaysia but I definitely did not see enough. Next time, I’m in Malaysia, I will definitely use this blog!

The most unusual location is the one with the Bavarian-style houses. I had no idea about it!

Thanks for this excellent post!

Thanks Diana! Yes, that’s definitely one of the more out-of-the-box destinations! I love how diverse Malaysia is 🙂

When I backpacked SE Asia, I was only in Malaysia for 2-3 days. This blog post makes me want to go back and spend a whole month there. Thanks for such a comprehensive list!

A month might not even be long enough! There are so many beautiful places in Malaysia; it’s such a diverse country. Definitely worthy of a return visit!

What a cool place! George Town looks really interesting. Thanks for sharing

I’m so bummed I never got to visit Malaysia when I lived in Thailand! It looks amazing and I love how diverse it is! Can’t wait to go back to Southeast Asia and explore all Malaysia has to offer 🙂

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Asia , Malaysia , Travel Guides · July 6, 2019

25 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Malaysia

Planning a Malaysia itinerary and wondering where to go? Fuel your wanderlust with these 25 most beautiful places to visit in Malaysia!

Malaysia is one country that simply has to be on your destination hit-list! Diverse in all senses imaginable, it is a beautiful country full of gorgeous scenery, history, delicious food, and some of the most incredible landmarks in Asia .

But with all the culture to experience, history to uncover, fascinating cities to visit, and gorgeous beaches to kick-back on, choosing where to go in Malaysia can be a tricky task. That’s where this guide comes in! We cover everything from must-go places, like Kuala Lumpur , Georgetown, Ipoh, Melaka, and Sipadan Island to lesser-known gems like Kapas Island, Port Dickson, the gorgeous Perhentian Islands, Danum Valley, and more!

Ready to spend less time planning and more time discovering all of Malaysia’s best bits? Read along to find the very best places to visit in Malaysia!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Before you visit these places in Malaysia

If this is your first visit to Malaysia, it’s important to know that the “Land of Mountains” is huge! The country is divided into two main islands – West and East Malaysia. West Malaysia, also known as Peninsular Malaysia, is probably the most popular side for mainstream tourism. In contrast, East Malaysia is famous for Borneo’s lush jungles full of diverse wildlife, fantastic hikes, and off-the-beaten-path islands.

So, how to decide where to go and what to see in Malaysia? Well, that will ultimately depend on your interests and what you’d like to get out of your Malaysia itinerary. 

However, since we’ve included ALL the best places to visit and different trip suggestions, this Malaysia travel guide can easily be tailored to match your needs, interests, and budget – whether you have 1 week in Malaysia or more!

Before choosing which where to go and what to do, these handy  Malaysian travel tips will also come in handy.

In a rush? Pin The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia for later.

The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia Quick Overview

Malaysia packs the perfect mix of lush jungles, jaw-dropping islands, bustling cities, and charming little towns! All in all, there’s something for everyone in Malaysia!

However, since there is so much to do and see, I reached out to fellow blogging friends to compile this epic list of Best Places to Visit in Malaysia ! Here’s a quick look at which places are covered in this guide:

Peninsular Malaysia :

Kuala Lumpur

Port dickson, johor bahru, tioman island, kapas island, taman negara national park, cameron highlands, perhentian islands, sungai lembing.

West Malaysia :

Sipadan Island

Danum valley, kinabatangan river valley, kota kinabalu.

• Kampung Meritam’s Mud Volcanoes

Mulu National Park

Niah national park.

Without further ado, here are the 25 best places to visit in Malaysia plus all our PRO tips on where to go and what to do to help you plan the perfect Malaysia itinerary.

Places to Visit in Malaysia Peninsular / East Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital hub, Kuala Lumpur, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and colorful architecture. 

The  perfect KL travel itinerary  starts with a visit to the most iconic landmark –  Petronas Twin Towers  –  towering above the city at 451.9m. After getting a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape, drop by the Thean Hou Temple, the National Mosque of Malaysia, and the famed  Batu Caves . 

Central Market is another must-visit spot full of traditional handmade arts and crafts. Nearby, Petaling Street Market’s bustling alleyways also offer the chance to bargain for cheap knockoffs and local souvenirs.

Another great draw to Kuala Lumpur, apart from its scenic streets and loads of places to explore, is that  nature is within easy reach . Some of the best green spaces to explore include the Botanic Gardens and the KL Forest Eco Park, where you can wander through a rainforest on a forest canopy walkway.  Right in the heart of the city!

If it’s delicious food you’re after, KL has a booming street food scene, and one of the easiest ways to sample the city’s eclectic local fare is on a  street food tour .   Alternatively, head straight to one of the bustling street markets, where you’ll find everything from Malay to Chinese and Indian to Western cuisines!

Pro Tips: Since there are so many things to do in KL , spend at least 3-4 days here to get a real feel of what the city has on offer. It’s also good to know that KL has a comprehensive subway system. However, we found taking the Hop On Hop Off bus and Grab Taxi cheap and quick modes of transport. More adventurous travelers looking to explore the area in an entirely unique way, could also consider cycling in Malaysia .

ALSO READ: The Best Layover Cities in Asia

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Port Dickson is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. This haven for nature lovers lies just south of  Kuala Lumpur . 

The town has a long coastline dotted with beaches that lead to Tanjung Tuan, one of the country’s biggest wildlife reserves. You will also find a 16th-century lighthouse, a 14th-century Islamic tomb, and megaliths in this beautiful area for a dash of history. To add a bit contemporary flare, there’s also a 3D art gallery that will literally take you to another world.

Port Dickson can be reached from Mainland Malaysia or Singapore . The best way to get there is by car, as it allows the flexibility to explore the area. By taking the Seremban-Port Dickinson Highway (E29), which connects to the North-South Expressway (E2) from Kuala Lumpur, it will take around 1h30 to reach the destination. A drive from the Lion City through the Causeway will take 3 hours and 45 minutes.

The cheaper option is to take the bus to Port Dickson. Hop on a bus to Seremban and there, change buses to Port Dickson. The trip will take around an hour and will set you back RM4, which is less than a US Dollar.

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The small and cozy town of Malaka is a great place to come for a weekend from bustling Kuala Lumpur. Located just 150km from the Malaysian capital Malaka is easily accessed by bus. It takes about 2 hours, and the ticket costs US$3. The town looks very different from other places in Malaysia with its canals, boats, bridges, colorful houses, and many cafés.

There are many things to do in Malacca like visiting the city’s attractions, wandering around the Malay Village, going on a boat along the canals, enjoying the city view from the Menara Taming tower, and of course, tasting and trying local delicacies at the Night Market on Jonker Street. The main tourist attractions in Malaka are the Dutch square, Kampung Kling mosque, St.Paul’s Church, Maritime Museum of Melaka, Stadhuys, and the Botanical Garden.

You can easily move around on foot, or if you get tired, hire one of the famous trishaws. It’s a local version of a rickshaw with three wheels. Carts are richly decorated with flowers and lights, and riding these at night is an exciting activity. Another option to move around the town is by bike. There are several cycling routes and tours in the city.

The best area to stay in Malaka is at the Malacca River. Here you will find many hostels, hotels, and guesthouses. Some of them are located close to Jonker Street, which guarantees a stay right in the town’s busiest nightlife area. For a quiet holiday, rather choose one of the places on the other side of the river.

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Johor Bahru doesn’t really have many unique points of interest that are not in other places in Malaysia. However, the presence of Legoland Malaysia and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town turned Johor Bahru into a popular tourist destination among families, especially those traveling from Singapore.

Johor Bahru is easily accessible from Singapore by private vehicle or public bus.  Crossing the border from Singapore to Malaysia will take less than an hour, including border controls. Because of its proximity, people usually do Johor Bahru as a quick day trip from Singapore. However, I would recommend families to stay in Johor Bahru for at least 3D2N. This will allow you one day for Legoland Resort, another for Legoland Water Park, and a few hours in Puteri Harbor and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town.

Airbnb also has several listings of top quality condominium units, which a family can book for less than US$20 per night. 

How to get to Johor Bahru

To reach Johor Bahru from Singapore, catch a bus right outside the MRT Kranji Station. You can even use your Ezlink card with at least SGD1.39 credit (or pay SGD2 cash to the driver). This way, you won’t need to reserve a ticket online.

If coming from elsewhere in Malaysia, take a local bus to Larkin Bus Terminal. And from there, take Grab Taxi to your chosen accommodation in Johor Bahru.

ALSO READ: Jaw-dropping Instagram Spots in Singapore

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Tioman Island is a beautiful place to visit in Malaysia. It is relatively unspoiled, with the jungle within it still pristine, and several coral reefs sought for diving and snorkeling. There are also waterfalls and great hiking options within the island. Not to mention, some mangroves that you can kayak through and spot wildlife like monkeys and snakes.

The beachfront of Juara Bay is stunning and not crowded like most other beaches of its quality. The water is calm, and it’s safe for swimming all year round, and there are several dive shops to hire equipment from. Also, there are many excellent local cafes on the beach serving fresh Malay and Western food.

There is accommodation to suit every budget on Pulau Tioman, some even with their own private beach.  Juara Turtle Project  – a sea turtle conservation program is well worth a visit. You can also opt to volunteer with them for a week or more and help with many tasks while meeting other travelers from around the world.

To get to Pulau Tioman, catch one of the daily ferries from Mersing on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It takes two hours to reach Tioman Island and arrives at the main port, Tekek. Plan to stay at least a week to really enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer! By the time you’ve relaxed sufficiently in your hammock, explored the amazing natural wonders, and feasted on heaps of great food, you’ll be struggling to leave Pulau Tioman!

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Malaysia is home to some truly spectacular islands and beaches, but one of the best hidden gems is Pulau Kapas , more commonly known to tourists as Kapas Island!

Located just a few kilometers off the west coast of Malaysia, nearby to Kuala Terengganu, it’s become a popular destination for weekend trips. While there isn’t actually that much to do there besides go snorkeling right off the beach, enjoy delicious beachside restaurants, and watch beautiful sunsets every night – you will definitely be amazed at the relaxing atmosphere found here. The island is simply stunning, and the color of the water will leave you speechless!

While it could be easy to stay there for a week or longer, most people find that a 3-4 day stay is more than enough to experience the Kapas magic. Accommodation options range from beach camping (for the budget travelers), beach chalets, or the more expensive resort on Gem Island, just a 5-minute boat ride away from Kapas. It’s a truly remarkable place in Malaysia, and shouldn’t be skipped while planning your itinerary through the country!

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In the heart of Malaysia lies Taman Negara National Park, an ideal introduction to what the Malaysian jungle has to offer visitors. The best way to reach Taman Negara National Park is by a 3-hour scenic boat ride, which departs from Kuala Tembeling and costs 35 Ringgit (USD 8.40). Buses or minivans depart from Kuala Lumpur or the Cameron Highlands heading to Kuala Tembeling each day. Alternatively, you can bus to Jerantut, then bus to Kuala Tahan, the village next to the national park.

You have to take a boat across the river from Kuala Tahan to reach Taman Negara’s main visitor center. Entry to the park costs 1 Ringgit (USD 0.25). You can depart on many treks from the visitor’s center – some are only a few kilometers, and others are overnight treks. Whichever hike you embark on, you are sure to see some interesting insects, plants and flowers, and views over the jungle! If you’re lucky, you may see some jungle animals too.

There are a few tours that you can do in Taman Negara National Park, such as a guided trek at night, to try and see nocturnal animals. Inside the park are some elevated animal viewing huts and a fun canopy walkway where you can walk from platform to platform far up in the trees! Overall, Taman Negara is a great place to experience walking in the dense Malaysian jungles and spend time in nature. Unless you’re an avid jungle trekker, I recommend staying 1-2 nights in Kuala Tahan for visiting Taman Negara National Park.

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A visit to the Cameron Highlands is not to be missed when traveling Malaysia, especially since it is one of the most famous landmarks in Malaysia . The wide tea plantations, lush jungles, and mysterious mossy forests at the significantly cooler highlands will amaze you. 

This region, named after British explorer and geologist William Cameron, ranges from 2,600 to 5,259 ft above sea level and is a Malaysian Garden Eden. There are over 700 species of plants growing here, and the vegetation changes according to the ascent of the mountains.  Around April , a guided hike to the jungle is a must since the famous Rafflesia Arnoldii, a stemless blossom looking like some weird red cabbage, being the largest single flower of any flowering plant, is in full bloom. If it’s not the season, you do not need a guided tour to explore the jungle trails around.

But the highlands are especially known for tea farms – BOH being the most popular one. Therefore, the views of the breathtaking landscape are obstructed by ugly, plastic-covered hothouses. But no worries, it gets better. Once you get into the woodlands, you’ll be amazed by the perfect and undisturbed ecosystems. Besides the sumptuous flora, this area is also a shelter for various animals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

There are two main places to stay in the Highlands, namely Brinchang and Tanah Rata. Brinchang is a rather touristy place frequented by groups, while Tanah Rata is more popular with the laid back backpacker crowd. To get to the highlands is easy since there are frequent buses going from Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang. Also, accommodations can arrange direct trips being a little more expensive but much faster and more comfortable.

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Ipoh has to be one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. Despite being the largest city in Perak state, it has a great small-town feel to it and a cool, retro vibe. You will find street art, hawker markets, cute architecture, and trendy cafes all in the relatively small historic center of the town in Ipoh.

If you are a foodie, you will love Ipoh, which many people consider Malaysia’s culinary capital. At night, hawker food markets spill out into the streets and alleyways. And, you will be spoiled for choice when deciding how to fill your tum! Ipoh is also the birthplace of Malaysia’s famous white coffee. This you can enjoy at one of the many retro cafés around the town center.

Stay in the town for at least a couple of days to give you a chance to soak up the vibe and visit some of the other attractions nearby. Be sure not to miss the many cave temples or Sunway Lost World (ideal if you have kids) on your visit here.

Ipoh is easy to get to from Kuala Lumpur and is around a 3-hour journey from the capital. We prefer the train for this journey, but you could also take the bus. Other tourist destinations like the Cameron Highlands and Penang can also be reached from Ipoh by bus.

Penang Island

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Perhaps no place in Malaysia better encapsulates the country than the island of Penang. The UNESCO World Heritage town of Georgetown is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in its own right. Still, the entire island is also worth inclusion on your Malaysian itinerary.

From soaring skyscrapers and lush jungle to white sand beaches and bustling street stalls – you can find nearly everything that Malaysia is known for packed into this small island, which can be traveled from end to end just over an hour.

There are so many great activities in Penang to keep you busy during your stay. So, I recommend at least three to four days to truly do the island justice. 

Try hiking to the aptly-named Monkey Beach for a rewarding jungle trek that ends with a picturesque beach filled with the critters who gave it its name. Or you can ascend the longest and steepest funicular track in Asia to the top of Penang Hill, where you’ll be treated to heavenly views of the island and surrounding water. And of course be sure to check out one of the many hawker food stalls that dot the island for a taste of the cultural vibrancy that makes this place so special. 

Whatever you do, Penang is sure to be an island that will capture your heart! 

No Malaysia itinerary would be complete without visiting Georgetown – Penang’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So it comes as no surprise that this little town is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia! 

Georgetown packs the perfect mix of culture, history, and Instagrammable places. One of the most popular things to do in the city is to hunt for street art. The town is chock-full with cute and quirky street art dotted along colorful streets lined with broken down shophouses, colonial-style buildings and age-old temples. The best way to find these gems though, is to grab a Street Art Map as soon as possible. Many of the murals are hidden, which means finding them on your own can be tricky.

Getting an  iconic view of the cityscape at Komtar  is another must while visiting here. Go at sunset for magnificent views and, more importantly, cooler temperatures! The Clan Jetties is another popular point of interest. Here you can get a closer look at Chinese settlers’ local life and snap up some great pics of the colorfully decorated stilt houses. Of course, ioining a fun food tour  is yet another great pastime here. Head to one of the hawker stalls where it’s easy to mingle with locals and get a real taste of authentic Malay cuisine.

Whatever you do, try to spend at least 2-3 days in Georgetown before exploring the rest of the island in-depth.

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This beautiful island, situated in the north of Malaysia, is one of the most incredible places to visit in Malaysia. Endless beaches with white sand and tall palm trees are waiting for you here! Every corner of this island is simply postcard-perfect.

Langkawi is well known for snorkeling and island hopping, but there are many other things to do too. You can visit the Langkawi Sky Bridge, which offers the most beautiful views of the island. Alternatively, visit the amazing Seven Wells Waterfall . The waterfall is a popular attraction among both locals and tourists. You can explore the falls or swim in the small pools formed at the base of the waterfall. It’s the perfect place to cool down on a hot summer day.

To get to Langkawi, you can take the fast boat for a few hours from Penang. I recommend spending at least two days in Langkawi . You will be amazed by the beautiful beaches and the island’s incredible natural beauty. While you’re in Langkawi, don’t hesitate to try the seafood. Simply delicious!

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When considering an island getaway in Malaysia, Langkawi is the first thing that comes to mind for most people. But, just off Malaysia’s northeast coast lies the ultimate tropical paradise: the stunning Perhentian Islands. Upon arrival, you will be met with lush jungle, calm turquoise water, and pristine white sand beaches that aren’t packed with tourists.

The Perhentian Islands are made up of two main islands: Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar. The island you choose to stay at comes down to the type of traveler you are. Besar, the larger of the two, is known for its luxurious villas and resorts. Whereas, Kecil caters to backpackers and budget travelers.

No matter which one you choose, the laid back island vibes make this place truly unique. With no roads or cars and limited Wi-Fi, time just seems to slow right down. Besides spending your time relaxing on the beach, you might wonder what people fill their days with.

The main attraction of the Perhentian Islands is what lies beneath the surface of those crystal clear waters. For a surprisingly affordable price, you can enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving here. Fancy swimming with turtles and snorkeling with reef sharks? Look no further! Depending on how much diving/snorkeling you’re planning to do, 5 nights is the perfect amount of time to spend on the Perhentians.

The reason you don’t see tourists lining these perfect beaches is that getting to the Perhentians is no simple task. Depending on where you are coming from, it can take up to a full day of travel. The quickest way to get there from Kuala Lumpur is to fly into the city of Kota Bharu. From there, take a taxi (1hr) or a bus (1.5hrs) to Kuala Besut.

Fast boats to the Perhentian Islands depart regularly daily from the jetty at Kuala Besut . It’s not necessary to book your boat ticket in advance. However, if you wish to do so for peace of mind, find more information here .

ALSO READ: What are the Best Islands to visit in Asia?

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Once a bustling tin mining town that was home to the deepest and largest tin mine in the world, Sungai Lembing was fading into oblivion with the collapse of tin ore prices in the 80s. It is experiencing a revival as a tourism spot in recent years, mostly among locals but with a growing reach.

The biggest draws at Sungai Lembing are its mining history, the surrounding nature, and the local food. At the mining museum, it is possible to explore parts of the old mine and learn about its history and miners’ lives.

For more nature, the two popular morning hikes from town are to Panorama Hill and Rainbow Waterfalls. Both start pre-dawn and are done on separate days.

Finally, the ingredients and food made in Sungai Lembing, from noodles to beancurd to broths, draw visitors from all over Malaysia. Mainly because the mountain spring water used to make them, give the food a unique flavor not found in similar dishes elsewhere.

Given the two morning hikes that are often part of the itinerary, a weekend trip of 3 days would be ideal for covering the main attractions and exploring the old town a little. Most people travel to Sungai Lembing by car or with tour coaches. To experience some of that old-time vibes, with accessible hikes and fabulous food without the crowds, Sungai Lembing would be the perfect candidate, at  least until everyone else hears about it.

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Places to visit in East Malaysia / Borneo

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Most people come to Tawau flying from Kota Kinabalu as a pit-stop on their way to Semporna and its famous islands. Besides a good coastline and some incredible food, it doesn’t have many attractions for travelers to linger longer. But that’s a pity because Tawau’s outskirts have some interesting things to do for nature lovers.

Tawau Hills Park

First of all, 20km north of town is  Tawau Hills Park , a treasure for nature lovers and people interested in spotting tropical snakes. Guests can stay in the charming wooden accommodation at park headquarters. It’s possible to see hornbills fly overhead, spot colugos, many frogs species, and hundreds of local insects. 

But with at least three days on your hands, you should hike to Mount Lucia, one of the three peaks in the park. This 10-km trek brings you through pristine forest and a mountain ridge inhabited by clouded leopards – feel extremely lucky to spot one. You need a ranger and a guide for this trek, and you will stay in a dorm on top of the ridge, with plenty of great jungle walks around you, and the chance of seeing gibbons and wild Malay civets.

SABAH SOFT WOODS

Not far away from Tawau is the Sabah Soft Woods plantation and their Plant4Borneo Elephants project. Guests come to join jeep safaris to see the herds of wild elephants who have taken up residence in this huge plantation. As part of the trip, they also help plant trees that serve to reforest a wildlife corridor the animals will later use to move between this area and the nearby Danum Valley Conservation Area. A 4 days/3 Nights tour of both Tawau Hills Park and the elephants cost RM1700 per person and is organized by the NGO 1StopBorneo Wildlife. 

You can otherwise go to the park yourself, but it takes a bit of time and effort to organize guides if you wanted to trek further – getting on a tour is the most time and cost-effective way to go. 

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In Borneo, Malaysia, Sipadan Island is regularly ranked as one of the best dive destinations in the world. And it’s not hard to see why. This small island, formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct undersea volcano, is one of the world’s richest marine habitats.

When  diving Sipadan Island ,   you can expect to see giant green sea turtles and hawksbills all over the place, tornadoes of barracudas, parrotfish, sharks, and morays, all in one dive. More than 3000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in the waters surrounding Sipadan.

There are twelve dive sites, and each has its own distinctive views of coral and aquatic life. But the Barracuda point is definitely the highlight of the trip. This dive site has a great barracuda shoal where you can see thousands in a tornado-like formation. During interval stops, divers get the chance to relax and recharge on Sipadan island’s beautiful beaches.

The island is located in the state of Sabah, in the northern part of Borneo. It is not possible to stay on the island overnight. You can either stay in the town of Semporna or on the nearby islands of Mabul and Kapalai. The closest airport to Sipadan is Tawau, about an hour’s drive from Semporna. From Semporna, you can arrange dive trips to the island through any dive shop. Be sure to book in advance, though. Dive permits are limited to 120 a day, and space can fill up quickly.

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Most foreign visitors pass through Semporna rather quickly to go diving or snorkeling on one of the nearby islands like Sipadan or Mabul. But if you can spare a day, it’s really worth stopping to experience something beyond the typical tourist attractions and see what life is like for the locals in Borneo, particularly the Bajau people who live in Semporna.

The most prominent building in town is the main mosque, which stands proudly painted in green and white and is topped with golden onion domes. A great way to while away a morning is by strolling through the local markets. As you might expect in a coastal town, there is a busy fish market, where you will see fish and other sea creatures that have been caught in the nearby waters.

Vegetarian and vegan visitors to Malaysia will probably prefer the produce market, which is quite colorful and much less smelly. Around the mosque and the jetty, you will see many ramshackle houses built on stilts.

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One of the best places to visit in Malaysia Borneo is the Danum Valley in the Sabah area. This is one of the few parts of Borneo that has never been logged by humans. The primeval rainforest is magical. There are towering trees with enormous buttresses that are draped in thick vines and shrouded in the early morning mist.

The only place to stay in the Danum Valley Conservation Area is Borneo Rainforest Lodge, an upscale lodge that provides guided hikes and night walks and drives. A typical stay is three days/ two nights. 

The lodge has an office near the airport in Lahad Datu, where a jeep or minivan picks you up for the two-hour drive to the resort. There are hikes up the escarpment where you can look out over the lodge and rainforest. Alternatively, hike to waterfalls deep in the jungle, shallow creeks, or along the canopy walkway. 

There is also a guided night walk and a night drive in the back of an open truck, with a powerful spotlight and an expert guide to help spot wildlife. Possible sightings include orangutans, pygmy elephants, red leaf monkeys, giant flying squirrels, flying frogs, and even rare clouded leopards. 

After the hikes, you can relax in the open-air restaurant and bar or have a spa massage. This is a truly incredible experience rightly deserving a spot on your best places to visit in Malaysia list!

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The Kinabatangan River  in Malaysian Borneo is the second-longest river in Malaysia and is located not far from Sandakan’s town. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife, some of which can’t be seen elsewhere globally. The river and the rainforest banks are home to the probosci’s monkey, orangutans, monitor lizards, macaques, and many different birds.

The river’s area is also home to the Borneo pygmy elephants – the smallest elephants in Asia, and there are only 1,500 of them left. They’re distinctly different from mainland elephants, having evolved when Borneo’s island separated more than 300,000 years ago. Even when these elephants are fully grown, they look like babies. And they are seriously cute when viewed from a distance.

Visit the Kinabatangan River from Sandakan by taking a bus and boat transfer. Most visitors will pre-book a stay in one of the lodges located on the river banks. There are both basic and luxury options available. The Kinabatangan River is not a protected area, so there’s no National Park fee to pay, but you are likely to see wildlife directly from your lodge. Otherwise, boat trips are available, and wildlife spotting is best early morning or early evening. Don’t miss out on nighttime walks to see another side of the rainforest. 

You should spend at least two days and one night here, although two nights will give you a better sense of the area.

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Sandakan is a quiet city in the Sabah region of Malaysian Borneo that has maintained it’s local feel quite well. It is only a 1-hour flight from Kota Kinabalu, making it an easy choice for those wondering ‘where to go next.’

You won’t find much in the way of resorts and high-end restaurants here. However, you will find a connection to nature and a city known as a haven for foodies. Food is definitely a major draw, and visitors should prepare to feast on a wide range of spectacular Cantonese and Malaysian food. Things like Bak Kut Teh (pork soup with a rich broth) and Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles) are dishes that visitors must try.

If you only have a day in the city, it’s a good idea to check out the Sim Sim Fisherman’s Village, the Sandakan Central Market, and the War Memorial at Sandakan Park. 

Sandakan lends itself to nature lovers and active travelers, as many of the highlights are located outside of the city. If you have a bit more time, there are a great number of exciting day-trips in the area. Some highly recommended excursions include visiting the Gomantong Bat Cave, taking a cruise on the Kinabatangan River, or seeing one of the many nearby sanctuaries. For a truly bucket-list experience, consider spending the night on Turtle Island!

Situated in Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a fairly newish city with plenty of development still underway. Despite mainly serving as a pit-stop to those wanting to climb Mount Kinabalu, explore the nearby islands, or trek through the lush jungles here, the city itself is a great add-on to your list of places to visit in Malaysia. 

There’s a lovely promenade at the KK Waterfront where you can stroll along and enjoy a sundowner or fresh seafood dinner. Those wanting to immerse themselves in the local life, head to one of the daily markets where fresh produce and seafood are on display. The “Floating Mosque” is another great attraction in the area, and so are the white sandy beaches nearby. 

When you’re ready to explore the outdoors, hop on a speedboat to the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. Taking a day trip to  Sapi and Manukan Islands   is the perfect way to soak up some island vibes. Spend the day relaxing on the beach and swimming in the turquoise waters. Adrenaline junkies can also get their fix by doing an array of water sports. Or better yet, zip line through the lush jungles! 

Be sure to also head to Mount Kinabalu – even if you aren’t into hiking. There’s a great trail through the botanical garden where you can familiarize yourself with the unique plant life. Alternatively, book a  Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring   tour for a hassle-free experience. 

With three to four days, you’ll have ample time to get to know the city and explore its surroundings. 

Kampung Meritam’s Mud Volcanoes

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Not many people have heard of  Kampung Meritam’s mud volcanoes . Fewer people have visited the spot. Located in the Sarawak district of Malaysian Borneo, the mud volcanoes are rather hard to reach. Especially seeing that you have to drive through the Brunei borders. However, they are worth the effort and still ranks as one of my favorite things to do in Borneo.

Caused due to tectonic activity, these volcanoes are a curious sight to see. If you have seen a real volcano, these look like little pimples in the ground. The grey clayey mud that spills out of them is warm to the touch and quickly dries as it is exposed to the hot surroundings.

It is much fun to smear it on your face, and you will find that it is rather cooling. You can also immerse yourself in one of the larger mud pools formed by some of the volcanoes if you want. Just make sure to see if the tanks are filled with water for a bath post your soak.

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Mulu National Park is a Unesco World Heritage site in the Miri Division of Sarawak.   In the heart of the tropical rainforest, Mulu’s main attraction is the show caves.

The show caves are unique and can only be visited on day tours with a national park guide.   Inside the caves are some of the world’s most exceptional examples of stalactites and stalagmites.

There are four caves to visit; the Deer Cave has the largest cave passage globally and is home to millions of bats. You can watch the bats leave the cave at dusk. It’s a spectacular sight as they form waves of black swirls in the sky. At the end of the passage is the Garden of Eden. Here a hole in the cave allows light to filter through, and a plethora of flora and fauna grow below.

Another spectacular cave is Clearwater, which is the longest cave in Asia. There’s a river through the center, with stunning scenery to admire from the well designed wooden walkways inside the cave.

To experience the rainforest from a different angle, you can participate in a sky canopy walk. The 480km rope bridge swings high in the sky, and you can see all the trees and vegetation from above. You can also get a little closer to the monkeys that swing amongst the treetops.

Another spectacular cave is Clearwater, which is the longest cave in Asia.   Through the centre, there’s a river, with stunning scenery to admire from the well designed wooden walkways inside the cave.

Pro Tips: The only way to get to Mulu is by air. Flights go from either Miri or Kuching and can be booked through Malaysian airways. The best hotel in the area is the  Mulu Marriott Resort and Spa . To experience the caves and explore a couple of trails around the park, you need at least 3 days. Although, staying longer is recommended, especially if you want to do some of the overnight treks.

Located on the Malaysian part of Borneo’s island,  Niah National Park  is often overlooked by tourists. The closest town to this gorgeous place is Miri. The National Park is located around 80 kilometers from Miri, and you can reach the park in 1h30.

One of the interesting things about the park is that it encompasses a part of Borneo’s tropical forest. This makes it an interesting experience to walk through. The boardwalks and well-marked trails make it easy to explore the park, and you do not need a guide.

The highlight of the park, however, is the Niah Caves, which are enormous. The interconnected network of caves will leave you spellbound. Make sure you carry a torch, though, as one of the caves is explored in pitch darkness. If that wasn’t enough, at the end of the cave, you could marvel at wall paintings that date back to the Iron age.

The walk itself is long, so set out early and carry water. It isn’t strenuous and can be done easily but watch your step as it can get slippery in parts. If you are in the Sarawak area of Borneo, make sure to put it on your list places to visit in Malaysia! 

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Fancy visiting the Cat City of Borneo? Kuching is a fascinating place. Both within the city and on day trips. There’s everything from jungle hikes (Orangutans, insect-eating plants, mud-skipping fish), street-art trails and a Cat Museum.

Firstly about those cats. The word Kuching means “cat.” The place is full of cat statues, and you can even listen to Cats FM radio. Visit the museum in North City Hall containing thousands of moggie images, and even a cat mummy (the Egyptian kind.)

The lovely character of Kuching city follows through with more street art, including our favorite: a wheelbarrow full of orangutans.

If this is your first trip to Borneo, visit the Sarawak Cultural Village early. It gives an enjoyable and painless introduction to ethnic diversity and is a great place to explore in its own right. Staff demonstrates the timeless pursuits of the jungle economy in a village of reconstructed folk-houses.

Then go on into the real jungles and parks. Bako is close to Kuching and is one of Borneo’s richest wildlife areas (and the world.) Explore diverse habitats and see those mud-skipping fish, snakes, lizards, and endangered probosci’s monkeys. On other day trips from Kuching, we saw orangutans and the ghastly Rafflesia plant with its one-meter diameter flowers smelling rotten meat.

We loved our five-day stay in  Kuching with kids  as it combined fascinating learning with the fun of spotting rare and exciting living things. All in a vibrant, friendly place.

Where to go in Malaysia Conclusion

As you can see, there are heaps of amazing places to visit in Malaysia! I hope this guide has helped you decide where to go and what to do!

That’s all I’ve got on Malaysia for now. Have you visited Malaysia yet? If so, what tips do you have for fellow travelers planning a Malaysia itinerary? Feel free to share your tips on best places to visit, best things to do and see, and anything in between below!

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Places to See in Malaysia

Quick navigation, must places to visit in malaysia, petronas twin towers.

The twin skyscraper in Malaysia held the rank of the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004 and is currently known as the tallest twin tower in the world. The twin tower KL features diamond – faceted façade containing 83,500 stainless steel extrusions. The towers' interior highlights Malaysia's culture and inspires people through traditional aspects like carvings and fabric.

Top Experiences To Do in Petronas Twin Towers

Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable car is also known as the Sky Cab claims to be the steepest cable car ride in the world; that takes visitors at a height of 708 meters up in the sky, above the sea level. The cable car carries passengers to Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest peak and thus is considered as one of the must-visit Langkawi attractions. On a visit here, tourists are advised to carry a jacket as the elevation in height invites chilled winds. The views from the top of this peak make getting onto this ride absolutely worth it and memorable. Location: Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Kedah Timings: 9:30 am to 7 pm on all days Must Experience:  Snorkeling Tours in Langkawi Click Here to Book:  Langkawi Cable Car Tickets

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Situated at a staggering height of 2,170 feet and hanging in between the two mountains, the Langkawi sky bridge, as the name suggests, makes you witness Malaysian beauty from heavenly heights. You can reach this bridge after ending your sky cab ride, only to witness more enchanting views of the forests and mountains. Stretching up to 410 feet with transparent sections, this bridge gives you a rush of adrenaline with a feeling of almost standing in the sky!

Top Experiences To Do in Langkawi Sky Bridge

KL Tower (Menara)

Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the KL Tower is one of the most popular spots for the locals as well as the tourists. This tower is renowned for being the tallest telecommunication tower in all of Southeast Asia and the 7th tallest tower in the world.

Top Experiences To Do in KL Tower (Menara)

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Beat the heat of Kuala Lumpur and hop in for an extraordinary experience at the magical theme park of Sunway Lagoon. With six different zones featuring thrilling bungee jumping rides to classic turbulence water slides, you are in for a treat. Experience the best of 5D cinematic movies at the waterpark and tune in for a gripping slingshot ride at x park lagoon. 

Top Experiences To Do in Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Aquaria KLCC

The Aquaria KLCC is said to be the world’s largest aquarium, holding over 5000 freshwater and marine creatures, which include massive arapaimas, giant groupers, garfishes and many more. Some of the major attractions of the aquarium are the scary tiger sharks, bright coral fishes, lethal sea snakes, seahorses, and blue rays.

The Aquaria KLCC is one of the foremost tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur involving the real depth and complexity. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia.

Location : The Aquaria KLCC is located on the concourse of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center.

Price : The entry fee approximately starts from 64 MYR for an adult and 53 MYR for a child. Check out Now:   Aquaria KLCC Ticket Price  

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Langkawi  

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a group of five different islands, which include Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug. There are various beach activities that the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes. However, all these beach activities require a prior booking and it is one of the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

You can also indulge in various water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the beautiful coral and marine life of the island. The island tours can be booked on the spot from where you will take your ferries.

Location: The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is just 20 minutes boat ride from the Kota Kinabalu.

How To Reach: The Jesselton Jetty ferry terminal consistently operates the boats to the Island, which takes around 20 minutes to reach there.

Price: The approximate cost for the complete tour starts from 53 MYR per adult.

Timings: 8.30 AM to 5 PM Here is the List of  Best  Things to Do in Langkawi Suggested Read: Things to Do in Malaysia

Bako National Park, Kuching

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Batu Caves, Selangor

The Batu Caves is located in the Selangor region of Malaysia. It has one of the famous Hindu shrines. The shine is of Lord Murugan resides in these caves. A lot of tourists visit this place as it is a religious site. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerizing. 

This area has innumerable caves that are that are home to many species of animals and insects. This area has many monkeys that often snatch away things from the tourist. The caves are said to be of the 10th century that has slowly developed. The caves are protected by the Malaysian Nature Society. 

There are many transportation facilities available to these caves like trains buses etc from Kuala Lumpur.  The most famous festival of the Batu caves is Thaipusam festival. This is one of the ideal Hindu religious places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur. Click Here to Book:  Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves Day Tour  or  Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur Also Check: Best Beaches in Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi

Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak

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Shangri-La's Orangutan Care Project, Kota Kinabalu

If you are a wildlife enthusiast and love exploring new places, which promote wildlife and its conservation, Shangri-La’s Orangutan Care Project is one that you cannot miss. The project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of Orangutans and it is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

It allows the common people to get the deeper insights into the lives of these amazing creatures. You can spend quality time with the Orangutans, get very close to them and even take memorable snapshots.

During your tour, you will be acquainted about the lives of Orangutan through the short videos, both before and after the tour. After the video, you are escorted to the feeding platform, where you are allowed to feed these lovely Orangutans.

The complete duration of the tour is around 1-2 hours. The excitement of the tour burgeons especially when your children accompany with you. Apart from the Orangutans, you also get to see a few more varieties of monkeys inside the care project.

Location: The Orangutan Care Project is located at Pantai Dalit Tuaran in Kota Kinabalu.  You May Also Like:  Activities in Langkawi Click Here to Checkout & Book:  Hop on Hop off KL Price

Pangkor Island

Dataran Merdeka

Legoland Malaysia

Boh Plantation

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National Mosque of Malaysia

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Perdana Botanical Gardens

Islamic Arts Museum

Minnature Malaysia

KL Butterfly Park

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Dataran lang.

Gunung Raya

Pulau Payar Marine Park

Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum

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Pantai Kok Beach

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Manukan island.

Masjid Bandaraya

Sabah State Museum

Atkinson Clock Tower

Satay Legend Lok Kawi

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Arulmigu karumariamman temple.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

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Bukit Panchor Forest Park

Clan Jetties

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Bukit mertajam recreational forest.

KeK Lok Tong Cave Temple

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Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Ling Sen Tong Temple

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• Kota Kinabalu

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Water Sports in Malaysia

Malaysia Top Attractions

A ride on a cable car takes tourists to Langkawi Sky Bridge - a true highlight of the region, elevated at a height of 2300 feet above sea level. From the top of this bridge, the mesmerising views of the rainforest along with the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls make sure to leave visitors spellbound.It attracts nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here, tourists can also indulge in some shopping at the number of stalls that sell souvenirs, toys, drinks, and snacks. The bridge certainly is one of the top Langkawi tourist attractions.Location: At the end of the cable car, alan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau, Langkawi, KedahTimings: 10 am to 10 pmClick Here to Book: Langkawi Cable Car TicketsAlso Read: Things to Do in LangkawiClick Here to book Petrosains Tickets

Dataran Lang, known as eagle square is yet another commonly visited destination amongst many other famous Langkawi places to visit. It has gained popularity for holding the huge sculpture of an eagle, which is considered to be one of the best manmade creations in Langkawi. The statue of the eagle is postured like it is ready to fly and can be spotted from various points in Pulau. To see this 12 meters statue, along with the views of Kuah Bay, tourists have to ride on a ferry.The miniature terraces, footbridges, fountains, eateries all together here make this place apt for a fun-filled day visit trip, enjoyable by all age groups. From eagle square, the view of numerous ferries plying in the ocean has also been appreciated by everybody who has ever visited!Location: Southeast corner of Pulau Langkawi, Kuah JettyTimings: 24 hours a day, every dayAlso Checkout & Book: Petronas Towers TicketsPopular Read: Things to Do in Langkawi

As one decides to simply stroll through the paths of Langkawi wildlife park and bird paradise, indigenous birds meet along the way. For a closer look, tourists can visit the large enclosed bird-rooms where these numerous species stretch their wings and offer a chance for greater interaction. This would be one of the best tourist places in Langkawi.The park offers services of a guide which tourists can take for better understanding of the park’s wildlife, animals - their habits, patterns, diversity, etc. Here, tourists can buy food for the animals and feed them too!Location: Lot 1485, Jalan Ayer Hangat, Kampung Belanga Pecah, KedahTimings: 8;30 am to 6 pm on all daysSuggested For You: Places to Visit in MalaysiaClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park TicketsClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park Tickets

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27 BEST Places to Visit in Malaysia [2023]

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia known for some of the most exceptional landscapes and ecosystems in the world.

While the country has seen drastic changes over the past several hundred years, it continues to wow visitors with its ethnically diverse culture and history.

However, there are many people who haven’t put Malaysia at the top of their travel itinerary. From the tranquil, secluded islands to the hidden, underground caves, we’re here to tell you about the top places you absolutely must visit when traveling to Malaysia!

Staying safe in Malaysia

Malaysia is a relatively safe country for tourists to visit. The biggest threat to tourists is petty theft, so take precaution when walking through busy streets or neighborhoods during the day and night.

Since Malaysia is predominately Muslim, it is best to respect the local culture and customs by dressing appropriately when visiting conservative cities or mosques.

But while Malaysia is very safe as a whole, no matter where you travel you absolutely NEED to have travel insurance. 

Travel insurance  is the best way to keep you and your belongings safe and secure while you are traveling abroad. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote :)

#1 – Malacca Historic City

One of the nicer places in malaysia to sightsee.

• Almost half a million residents
• Oldest Malaysian city

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca City is a historical capital that mixes Dutch colonial architecture with Portuguese influences. Although Malacca City as transformed into a cosmopolitan hub of shopping centers and international restaurants, it still somehow manages to remain true to its Malaysian heritage.

The historic center is quite accessible, and can easily be explored by foot or by a traditional trishaw. Home to some of Malaysia’s top attractions and restaurants, you’ll definitely want to add Malacca City to your itinerary!

• A’Famosa Melaka may just seem like a pile of ruins, but it was actually a Portuguese fort that was built in the early 1500s. Now a great picture spot, A’Famosa Melaka is one of the last remaining European buildings in all of Malaysia.
• Dutch Square sits in the middle of Malacca and is lined with bright, salmon-colored buildings on all sides. At the center is a Victorian marble fountain, which is surrounded by lush, green gardens.
• Christ Church Melaka is a terra-cotta building leftover from the Dutch rule. Walk inside to see decorative plaques and wooden pews that are dedicated to different Dutch soldiers and rulers.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Malacca Historic City

• The COOLEST Hostel in Malacca Historic City → Ringos Foyer Guest House
• The BEST Hotel in Malacca Historic City → The Pines Melaka

#2 – Palau Redang Islands

• Restaurants are often attached to resorts
• Higher prices compared to other cities
• Perfect diving and snorkeling location

Only 45km away from Kuala Terengganu lies the beautiful islands of Pulau Redang. The main island of Redang is surrounded by several smaller islands, which are all protected by the Terengganu Marine Park.

The crystal waters are perfect for diving or snorkeling, which can be done directly off the shores! This relaxing island caters to travelers looking for a little more luxury on their vacation, since its home to many upscale resorts and restaurants.

• Diving is by far the most popular activity on the island thanks to the vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. There are numerous diving schools and equipment rental shops around.
• Marine Park Centre can be found on Pulau Pinang Island and offers visitors a glimpse into the research that is done to protect the marine ecosystem in Malaysia.
• Spa Treatments are the perfect way to relax on your vacation! Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just wanting to treat yourself, you’ll find some of the top spa facilities at the resorts.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Palau Redang Islands

• The BEST Hotel in Palau Redang Islands → The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort

#3 – Penang Hill

A very cool place in malaysia to go for a day.

• 130 million-year-old rainforest
• Can take the railway or hike to the top

Despite its name, Penang Hill is actually made up of several smaller hills which are homes to the last remaining rainforests in Penang. The top of the hill is over 800 meters above sea level, meaning it’s colder temperatures make it the perfect escape from the muggy, Malaysian heat! The view from the top of Penang Hill is breathtaking, and you’ll be able to see the peaks of Langkawai Mountains on a clear day.

• Penang Hill Railway is the world’s oldest funicular that takes you to the top of the hill. Although it crawls up the hill at a seemingly snail-like pace, you’ll see forests and historic bungalows on its 30-minute journey.
• Love Lock is an observation deck famously decorated with thousands of heart-shaped padlocks brought by lovers from all around the world. If you forgot yours, don’t worry! Padlocks can be purchased near the deck as well.
• The Curtis Crest Facility aims to inform its visitors about the conservation and protection initiatives put in place for Penang Hill. The facility also offers trails, walkways and zip lines through the rainforest for an extra fee.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Penang Hill

• The BEST Hotel in Penang Hill → Homestay by Penang Hill

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#4 – Kinabalu National Park

One of the most amazing places in malaysia.

• Home to the highest mountain in Southeast Asia
• Plenty of outdoor activities
• Several resorts and guesthouses for overnight stays

Located in northwest Sabah, Kinabalu National Park is centered around the towering Mount Kinabalu and is the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to over 5,000 different plant species, Kinabalu National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream! From hiking and rock climbing to paragliding and mountain biking, Kinabalu National Park has something for anyone looking for a breath of fresh air in the outdoors.

• Climbing Mount Kinabalu through the Mesilau trail will take roughly two days, and should be reserved for intermediate to advanced hikers. You’re required to go with a guide, where you’ll climb over 3,000 meters just on your first day!
• Poring Hot Springs will definitely soothe your aching muscles after spending the whole day hiking. The sulfurous pools are situated right in the jungle and attract locals as well as hikers and rock climbers.
• The Botanical Site is home to plants from four different climate zones, carnivorous plants, and over 1,000 species of orchids.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kinabalu National Park

• The COOLEST Hostel in Kinabalu National Park → Cozy Hostel
• The BEST Hotel in Kinabalu National Park → Lily’s Backpackers Cottage

#5 – Cameron Highlands

A beautiful outdoor place in malaysia.

• 2,000 meters high
• Many agricultural farms
• Sample teas and strawberries right from the farm

Cameron Highlands is home to some of Malaysia’s most fertile soil, making it the perfect location for fruit, vegetable and tea farms. Tea was originally grown on the hills by the British during the colonial rule, turning Cameron Highlands into the largest exporter of tea throughout Malaysia.

Cameron Highlands is the definition of farm to table cuisine, meaning you’ll taste some of the freshest produce that was most likely picked just that day. 

• Boh Sungai Palas Tea Estate is a sprawling plantation where you can see how the tea leaves are grown and harvested. The factory also has an on-site shop where you can purchase freshly picked tea to take home.
• Cactus Valley is a tranquil garden where you can admire the different cactus species that are native to Cameron Highlands. Besides cacti, the tiered gardens are also home to a variety of fruit and vegetable plants.
• Chai Kok Lim Strawberry Farm is one of the highlights of the Cameron Highland region. Grown hydroponically, the strawberries on the farm are sold fresh by the basket, or as a jam and ice cream!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Cameron Highlands

• The COOLEST Hostel in Cameron Highlands →  Traveller Bunker Hostel 1
• The BEST Hotel in Cameron Highlands → MY SWEETHUB HOMESTAY @ CAMERON HIGHLANDS

#6 – The Perhentian Islands

• Cluster of several islands
• Few sights besides beaches

To experience paradise at an affordable price, spend some time on the Perhentian Islands. Backpackers and young travelers will love the party scene on Kecil, while families and honeymooners will appreciate the calmer setting of Besar. The only way to hop between the islands is by boat, and there are no motorized vehicles allowed land, which makes for a very quiet and peaceful getaway.

Although there are very few monuments and major sights on the islands, you’ll still find plenty of water and beach activities to keep you entertained.

• Long Beach is the primary beach located on Kecil and is the place to go for busier restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Coral Bay is also located on Kecil but tends to be more laid-back and relaxed. You’ll also find amazing views of the sunset from this side of Kecil.
• Teluk Dalam is an isolated beach on Besar and has some of the cleanest, whitest sand in all of Malaysia. Love Beach is also located close to Teluk Dalam and is a popular hangout for visitors who want to socialize and have a couple of beers.
• Diving the Perhentian Islands is very popular, as the waters around the islands are part of a protected marine park. You’ll find plenty of dive schools and equipment rental shops scattered around both the main islands.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in The Perhentian Islands

• The COOLEST Hostel in The Perhentian Islands → Quiver Dive Team Perhentian Dorm
• The BEST Hotel in The Perhentian Islands → Tuna Bay Island Resort

#7 – Danum Valley

• Over 15,000 types of plants
• No human inhabitants or settlements

The conservation area of the Danum Valley is a vast and wild natural reserve that is home to over 400 kilometers of untouched forest. Leeches are everywhere, so if you’re planning to hike the valley, dress appropriately in sturdy hiking boots and leech socks!

• Orang Sungai is home to the ancient ruins of burial coffins that have been left by inhabitants that lived in the jungle centuries ago. Exploring the indigenous graveyards and coffin remains gives a rare glimpse into how these “river people” lived in the Danum Valley.
• A Night Safari gives visitors the unique opportunity to see the rainforest from a different angle. Take a guided tour by 4×4 where your guides will point out the native flora and ecological plants with just a flashlight.
• Canopy Walks take you on a journey 30 meters above the ground for the jaw-dropping bird’s eye view of the Danum Valley. You’ll need to climb up a wooden ladder to reach the canopy boardwalk, but the vantage point from the top is worth overcoming your fear of heights for!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Danum Valley

• The BEST Hotel in Danum Valley → Bike and Tours Bed and Breakfast

Further Reading – Have you seen our guide to the most underrated and amazing neighborhoods in Kuching?

#8 – Alor Setar

One of the most underrated places to see in malaysia.

• Few tourists
• Big city with several ancient temples and ruins

Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah and is a hidden capital city that is often overlooked by tourists. Just 55 km south from the popular city of Langkawi, Alor Setar has enough temples, museums, and galleries that can be explored over several days.

You’ll find the benefits of a bustling city like large hotels and restaurants, but also bits of history scattered around, like the 250 million-year-old Gunung Keirang hill .

• Zahir Mosque is a fascinating landmark that is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Malaysia. Built in 1912, the mosque is ornately decorated in white marble and lights up the night sky when the sun goes down.
• Alor Setar Tower is a communication tower where you can ride to the top for a picturesque view over the entire city. You’ll also find a revolving restaurant at the top if you’re feeling hungry!
• Menara Jam Besar is the yellow clock tower that overlooks the Zahir Mosque in the center of the city. Built in the early 1900s, the clock was designed to ring at the same time as the Zahir Mosque’s call to prayer.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar

• The COOLEST Hostel in Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar → Hostel Ah Wai
• The BEST Hotel in Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar → Royale Signature Hotel

#9 – Ipoh

• Cheap and tasty food
• Stunning limestone caves

Nestled in the middle of Perak State is Ipoh, a tourist-free city known for incredible colonial architecture and exotic temples and caves. The city was once run by the British during Perak’s tin mining period, which is reflected through the architecture of the town hall and main square in the center of the city.

The street food scene in Ipoh is also second to none, and you’ll find hundreds of restaurants and food stalls to keep you satisfied all day. If you’re looking to escape the bustling city to discover real Malaysian life, then you can also check the  best day trips from Kuala Lumper

• Ipoh Heritage Walk is a 6.5km trail around the city that leads you through some of the most important buildings and monuments that you can’t miss during your visit.
• Perak Tong is one of the 30 cave temples in Ipoh. After walking through the main entrance, you’ll climb into the giant limestone cave to find hidden grottoes and statues located in the crevices. There is even a gold, 12 meter Buddha peacefully sitting inside the cave!
• Tambun Cave is home to hundreds of ancient cave paintings that date back to almost 5000 years ago.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Ipoh

• The COOLEST Hostel in Ipoh → Mari Hostel
• The BEST Hotel in Ipoh → Royale Hotel

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#10 – Georgetown

A great place to see in malaysia if you love architecture.

• Colorful street art
• Old temples and mosques

Georgetown is the vibrant and almost frozen-in-time capital of Penang and Malaysia’s second largest city. The multicultural influences can be seen throughout the city center, from the colorful colonial dwellings to the traditional Chinese temples to the fusion of culinary delights served in the restaurants.

This UNESCO Heritage Site is a historical and cultural must-see that can’t be missed during your visit to Malaysia.

• The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a sprawling, Hakka-Teochew style hotel that has been famously painted a bright blue. Stay a night in this historic 1800s hotel, or take the one hour guided tour.
• Kapitan Keling Mosque is the largest mosque in Georgetown and is a pristine white building with glistening gold domes.
• Kek Lok Si Temple is Malaysia’s biggest Buddhist temple and is a complex of several prayer halls, monasteries, and lush gardens. The temple features a 30-meter high pagoda that is perched on the top of Air Itam.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si, Georgetown

• The COOLEST Hostel in Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si, Georgetown → Georgetown Residences
• The BEST Hotel in Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si, Georgetown → Mercure Penang Beach

Learn more about the cultural excellence of Georgetown!

#11 – Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

• Less developed islands
• Protected national park

The five islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park are just a short boat ride away from Kota Kinabalu, making it a quick getaway for a day or weekend trip. Spend your time on the two larger islands of Gaya and Manukan, or shuttle between the smaller islands for a more remote feel. Regardless of which island you choose to spend your time on, you’ll have miles of pristine beaches where you can bathe in the sun!

• Gaya Island is the largest island in the national park known for it’s dense, tropical rainforest.   Enjoy Gaya’s 20km of hiking trails, or stay overnight at one of the several luxurious 5-star resorts.
• Manukan Island is the local hangout hot spot with plenty of recreational facilities like swimming pools, sports courts, and multiple restaurants and clubhouses. The eastern side of the ideal is very ideal for diving.
• Mamutik Island may be the smallest island in the park, but it can be rented out if you’re looking for a private oasis! Mamutik is less than ideal for swimmers and snorkelers, as the beach is quite rocky and slippery.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park → Aru Place Kota Kinabalu

Recommended Reading: Check Out The Best Hostels in Kuala Lumpur

#12 – Kota Bharu

• Conservative Muslim City
• Day and night markets
• Cheap food stands

Situated on the northern tip of the Malaysian peninsula close to the Thai border, Kota Bharu is the place to experience a side of Malaysia that many visitors don’t often see. Kota Bharu is heavily influenced by its strong Islamic culture, which means you won’t see many western amenities like shopping malls or even bars.

Because it’s a socially conservative city, visitors will need to dress appropriately and behave respectfully when visiting Kota Bharu. However, you’ll find some of the most interesting markets and mosques that Malaysia has to offer.

• Pasar Besar is a giant, multi-level indoor market swarming with locals and city dwellers looking to purchase everything under the sun. You’ll find everything like fish, meat, produce, clothing, and electronics for sale.
• Istana Jahar was once the royal palace built in the 1800s. It has since been transformed into the Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs of Kelantan.
• The Handicraft Village and Craft Museum is a very affordable museum and shop selling locally made souvenirs like painted scarfs, woven blankets, and silver jewelry.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kota Bharu

• The COOLEST Hostel in Kota Bharu → Timur Guesthouse
• The BEST Hotel in Kota Bharu → Perdana Kota Bharu

#13 – Genting Highlands

Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Malaysia

• Tons of amusement parks and activities
• Several resorts
• Exciting rides and games for the whole family

Adventure enthusiasts absolutely cannot miss the exciting Genting Highlands! Feel free to unleash your inner child at the multiple indoor and outdoor theme parks, casinos, golf course, and other round the clock entertainment activities.

Genting Highlands is also perched on top of a mountain which can be accessed by cable car, making it an exclusive destination that the whole family can enjoy.

• Casino de Genting is Malaysia’s only casino. Open 24 hours a day, you’ll be able to hit the slots or play your hand at one of the card tables all night long.
• The Outdoor Theme Park on Genting Highlands is filled with extreme roller coasters and stomach-dropping rides that are sure to excite any thrill seeker.
• Snow World is a unique indoor theme park filled with cold snow where you can escape the Malaysian heat! Grab one of the sleds for a hill ride or play in the frosty igloos in this winter wonderland.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Genting Highlands

• The BEST Hotel in Genting Highlands → GeoSuites @ Geo38 Genting

#14 – Niah National Park

• Over 30km of caves and lush jungle
• Thought to be the birthplace of Malaysian civilization

Niah National Park is an outstanding destination that’s worth exploring during the day and at night. If you choose to stay overnight at one of the guesthouses, you’ll be able to explore the park after hours with just a headlamp and flashlight!

Although there are plenty of activities to do in the park, the Niah Caves are the biggest draw and was originally the site where 40,000-year-old human remains were discovered.

• Niah Caves are giant, awe-inspiring 1 meter high chambers that can be explored day or night. The sheer size of the limestone caves is unlike anything you’ll see in the world. If you look closely, you’ll also see cave paintings that are over 1,000 years old.
• Gan Kira is another popular large cave where many artifacts were excavated during the mid-1950s. Pottery, ornaments, and even a few burial sites were found in Gan Kira.
• The Niah Archaeology Museum contains plenty of information about the park’s history, as well as installations about the human remains and lifestyle of the ancient settlements.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Niah National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Niah National Park → Samalaju Resort Hotel

#15 – Langkawi

Great place to visit in malaysia for couples.

• Tons of restaurants and hotels for all budgets
• White sand beaches

Langkawi might be considered the most popular tropical destination in all of Malaysia. This archipelago is comprised of 99 islands is home to tons of resorts, restaurants, and beaches that are guaranteed to make your vacation a dream!

Although the islands are surrounded by crystal, turquoise waters, the islands themselves are covered in green jungles and lush paddy fields. If relaxation is high up on your list of things to do, then make Langkawi your home base for the week!

• Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125 meter long (and 700 meters high) pedestrian bridge that is sure to make your heart palpitate. The exhilarating walk across the steel bridge will give you a bird’s eye view of the Telara Tuju waterfalls and the breathtaking islands nearby.
• Gunung Raya is the highest peak at 881 meters tall. The challenging hike is worth the rewarding view at the top, perfect for catching a glimpse of the setting sun.
• Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum is an interactive art gallery dedicated to over 200 works of optical illusions.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Langkawi

• The COOLEST Hostel in Langkawi → Langkawi Dormitorio
• The BEST Hotel in Langkawi → The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi

#16 – Tioman Island

• Several secluded beaches
• Hiking trails around the whole island
• Beautiful snorkeling and diving spots

Spend a long weekend on the shores of Tioman Island, where you’ll enjoy stunning scenic views and laid-back beaches to help you unwind. Located in the South China Sea, the island caters mostly to Malaysian locals, which means many areas are virtually free from tourists so you can relax on the beach or by the pool in peace.

• Hike from Tekek to Juara to see the pure, green jungle of the island. The trail is fairly easy and is only 7km, but will lead you through dense, flourishing trees and plants between the towns of Tekek and Juara.
• Genting Village is a traditional Malaysian town that is still flooded with fishing boats and fisherman catching fresh seafood to sell to the markets later that day. If you come early enough, you’ll see them fishing directly off their boats!
• Air Batang, or known as ABC by the locals, is a village surrounded by gorgeous hiking trails. Whether you’re staying in Air Batang, or simply stopping by after a long hike, you’ll find several casual dining areas and shops.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tioman island

• The BEST Hotel in Tioman island → X Rector Minsu

#17 – Gunung Mulu National Park

• 3,500 species of plants
• 295km of underground caves

The protected rainforest of Gunung Mulu National Park is unlike other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malaysia. Although you’ll find tropical plants and flowers like most other rainforests in the country, Gunung Mulu National Park is known for its dramatic limestone peaks and underground cave chambers.

There are three main mountains in the park, each with sharp protruding pinnacles that make for a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime view.

• Deer Cave is the world’s largest cave that is accessible to the public at over 2km long and 175km high. In the middle of the cave, you’ll see a natural break in the ceiling, which lets in sunlight and illuminates the darkness. In order to enter the cave, you’ll first need to walk through the beautiful, tropical rainforest, which is an attraction all on its own.
• Lang Cave is accessed after your walk from Deer Cave. Although it’s smaller than the other caves in the park, it’s illuminated by several holes in the caves that act as skylights so you can see the stalagmites and other structures inside.
• Wind Cave gets its name from the breeze that sweeps through the cave. From the inside, you’ll see hundreds of jaw-dropping stalagmites and limestone columns.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Gunung Mulu National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Gunung Mulu National Park → Mulu Marriott Resort

#18 – Kuching

One of malaysia’s coolest historical sites.

• Capital city of Sarawak
• Beautiful location on Sarawak river
• Learn about how indigenous groups lived

The bustling city of Kuching is a romantic meld of ancient and modern architecture and culture. Located in east Malaysia, Kuching sets out to educate visitors on the lifestyle of its indigenous inhabitants, and how Malaysians lived a hundred years back. Most of the main sites like temples and museums can be seen in a day, making Kuching an ideal trip to experience traditional Malaysia!

• The Kuching Waterfront offers a scenic view of the river, where tourists and young lovers can stroll hand in hand down the promenade. Small cafes and restaurants line the waterfront, and the view from the outdoor terraces cannot be beaten.
• Kuching Mosque was constructed in the mid-1800s and can be identified by its bright pink facade and shimmering gold domes.
• Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple is an ornate, arched shrine that dates back to the late 1700s. Admire the intricate wood carvings and the deep red paint on the temple roof. Due to the large Chinese community in Kuching, this temple is an important landmark for the city.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kuching

• The COOLEST Hostel in Kuching → Check In Lodge
• The BEST Hotel in Kuching → Hilton Kuching Hotel

#19 – Selangor

• The capital city of Sarawak
• Most developed and populated state

Located just outside Kuala Lumpur in Selangor, a tourist loved destination that’s home to many of Malaysia’s top attractions. Like most areas in Malaysia, Selangor is a mix of outdoor nature activities and urban city life, making it a central place to stay for a first-time visit.

Shopping addicts will love the plethora of malls and markets in the area, and families will enjoy the variety of activities and entertainment. After a long day walking around the city, don’t forget to get one of Selangor’s famous reflexology massages!

• i-City is Selangor’s top family attraction. Head for the indoor snow park, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel or roller coasters for a thrilling day of fun!
• Sepang International Circuit is a racetrack that is sure to fulfill any auto lover’s dream. Home to Malaysia’s Formula 1 events, the Sepang International Circuit also features go-karting and an automobile museum.
• Chiling Waterfalls is actually made up of three different waterfalls and can be reached by trail after hiking through the Selangor Dam. Definitely don’t miss the chance to swim in the crystal clear lagoons of the waterfall basins!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Selangor

• The COOLEST Hostel in Selangor → Suns Inn Hotel Kuala Selangor
• The BEST Hotel in Selangor → The One Boutique Hotel

#20 – Jalan Alor

A must-see for foodies.

• Foodie paradise
• Unique and traditional Malaysian dishes

The foodie destination of Malaysia can be found on Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur. Once known as the red light district, Jalan Alor has had a few facelifts over the years to increase its attraction with tourists. Although you won’t find fancy fusion or international cuisine here, you will be treated to some of the best hawker stalls and street food markets in the whole country.

Feel free to come by during the day, but definitely don’t miss the opportunity to visit in the evening, when Jalan Alor turns into a bustling night market. You won’t get most of these foods back home, so don’t be afraid to try something new on Jalan Alor!

• Restoran Wong Ah Wah serves up classic Malaysian satay skewers of juicy chicken, beef and lamb. This old school establishment is well known amongst locals and tourists alike.
• Uncle Lim Pan Mee makes some of the best noodle soups in Malaysia. Served with piping hot broth, you’ll slurp your way through one or two bowls easily!
• Beh Brothers may just be a small stall with plastic chairs in front, but don’t let the no-frill decor fool you. You’ll find very tasty and very affordable rice and drunken noodle bowls here.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Jalan Alor

• The BEST Hotel in Jalan Alor → The Bed KLCC

#21 – Batu Caves

• Over 400 million years old
• Temples are over 100 years old
• Several god Hindu statues and shrines

While limestone caves can be found all over Malaysia, the most popular site to visit these underground dwellings is at the Batu Caves. Consisting of three major caves, Batu Caves is a very religious site in Hindu culture and is home to multiple shrines and temples.

Not only will you have the chance to walk in the caves themselves, but you can also explore museums and art galleries on site. If you happen to visit during Thaipusam (January-February), you’ll see thousands of worshippers participating in a colorful procession for the Lord Muruga.

• Cathedral Cave is the largest and most ornate cave in Batu. After climbing a steep flight of over 200 steps, you’ll reach the top to see beautiful Hindu shrines under the 100 meters high caved ceiling.
• Ramayana Cave can be accessed after crossing a small bridge past the statue of Hanuman. This cave is vibrantly decorated in color dioramas telling the story of Ramayana.
• The Lord Muruga statue is a 42-meter tall golden statue that greets visitors as they enter the cave.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Batu Caves

• The BEST Hotel in Batu Caves → Villa Samadhi Kuala Lumpur – By Samadhi

#22 – Petaling Street

• Remodeled in 2003
• Traditional heritage buildings

Kuala Lumpur’s buzzing Chinese district can be found on Petaling Street. Walk through the grand Chinese arches and enter a chaotic Chinatown filled with affordable shops, tantalizing snacks, and traditional temples.

This pedestrianized shopping district is the perfect place to find counterfeit products, as long as you remember to haggle with the vendors for a better price! If you’re looking for cheap eats and good deals on souvenirs, then head down to Petaling Street for an exciting and memorable day.

• Shopping is by far the biggest draw in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. From sunglasses to clothing to handbags, you’ll find some of the biggest brand name knockoffs at reasonable prices. Don’t forget to bargain down to 20-30% of the original asking price.
• Central Market is a short walk from Petaling Street and is the best place to find goods that are higher quality than what you find at the hawker stalls. The building is over 100 years old, and products are separated by race, so you can see the differences in cultures.
• Street Food on Petaling Street is some of the tastiest food you’ll have in Malaysia. Local favorites include Asam Laksa and curry noodles.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Petaling Street ,Malaysia

• The COOLEST Hostel in Petaling Street ,Malaysia →  Mycozystay
• The BEST Hotel in Petaling Street ,Malaysia → Villa Samadhi Kuala Lumpur – By Samadhi

Editor’s note –   If you are going to stay in Penang, you should check out our article about Where to stay in Penang.

#23 – Pangkor Island

One of the more unique places to visit in malaysia.

• 3,000 locals live on the island
• Pangkor Town has restaurants and hotels
• Plenty of water sports and activities

Situated off the coast of Perak, Pangkor Island is home to miles and miles of white sandy beaches. Originally the home base of the Dutch during the Dutch East India Company, Pangkor Island is filled with several European influenced structures and buildings.

If you’re looking to explore what Pangkor has to offer, think about renting a scooter or motorbike, as they are affordable and can take you up the steep hills for the best viewpoints.

• Fu Link Kung Temple can be found at the bottom of Pangkor Hill near Sungai Pinang Besar. This Taoist temple is decorated in bright colors, and the gardens surrounding the temple include a mini Great Wall of China!
• Pangkor Hill Trek starts at Bogak beach and leads you up to Sungai Pinang Kecil. This is a fairly relaxing trail that should only take one or two hours during the day.
• Dindings Fort is a small Dutch fortress that was built during the 17th century. This monument was originally used to watch over the foreign ships that would steer past Pangkor.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Pangkor Island

• The BEST Hotel in Pangkor Island → Anjungan Beach Resort

#24 – Sipadan Island

• Award-winning dive spot
• Must stay on neighboring islands as there are no resorts

While there is no shortage of excellent diving spots in Malaysia, Sipadan Island might take the trophy for the most beautiful. You’ll have 13 different bays and spots to choose from, including the popular Hanging Gardens and Turtle Cavern.

The island was formed by corals that grew over an ancient volcanic cone, making it one of the richest marine ecosystems in the country. Although you’ll need to apply for a permit to visit Sipadan Island (120 are given out each day), the exclusivity and richness of the landscape is well worth the wait.

• Diving is clearly one of the best activities on Sipadan Island. Surrounded by hard and soft coral, you’ll have plenty to see in the crystal clear waters off the shores. Snorkeling is also possible for those without a diving permit.
• The Dropoff is located off the shores and can be dangerous if it’s unexpected! You’ll be wading in knee-high water before suddenly dropping 600 meters into the depths of the ocean.
• Stay on a Liveaboard for a unique accommodation experience while exploring Sipadan. These ships dock themselves close to the island and also offer onboard dining and massages.

#25 – Miri

• Bustling oil and petroleum town
• Tasty cafes and restaurants
• Markets for all types of goods

To some, Miri is just a gateway city that leads to Malaysia’s top attractions. However, this overlooked city in Sarawak is home to five outstanding national parks that should be explored on its own. The sunsets off the coasts of Miri are some of the most colorful and picturesque sights you’ll see on your entire Malaysian trip.

• The Blue Tears at Tusan Beach is one of Miri’s natural wonders. Come at night and see the glowing micro-organisms light up the water like shining stars in the night sky.
• Markets can be found all over Miri. If you’re looking for traditional Malaysian products, hit up Tamu Khas. For a taste of the local, regional dishes, don’t miss out on the Saberkas Weekend Night Market.
• The Petroleum Museum may not be the most exciting sight on your itinerary, but it pays homage to the booming industry that put Miri on the map. It’s located near the “Grand Old Lady” which was the first oil well built in the country.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Miri

• The COOLEST Hostel in Miri →  Villa Dadap Miri
• The BEST Hotel in Miri → Bay Resort Condominium

#26 – Taiping

An awesome place to visit in malaysia for half a day.

• Home of the first railway station in Malaysia

If you’re headed to northern Malaysia, don’t miss a stop over to the charming, historic town of Taiping. You’ll find some of the best-preserved architecture from the British colonial era, that can be seen by the pristine white facades of the government offices and boarding school in the area.

• The Taiping Lake Gardens was originally a tin mining ground, but was soon converted into a flourishing lakeside garden that’s covered in trees and bright colored tulips! There are also ten different ponds located around the gardens.
• The Perak Museum is the oldest museum in the whole country and was built in 1886. You’ll find photographs and exhibits highlighting the history of the town.
• Maxwell Hill is a small village known for receiving the highest percentage of rainfall in Malaysia. The 13k trek up the mountain is brimming with old bungalows and beautiful gardens, making the journey quite scenic.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Taiping

• The BEST Hotel in Taiping → Zen Retreat Taiping

Now that you’ve gotten the low down on Malaysia’s coolest landmarks, cities, and parks, you’ll have no problem building the most action-packed itinerary for your visit! We’re positive that you’re going to have a memorable and unforgettable time in Malaysia!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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35 Awesome Places To Visit In Malaysia (Read This Before Travel To Malaysia)

Malaysia is a colourful country where many enthusiastic travellers wish to have millennia to explore it all.

From rainforest escape, island getaway, culture exploration, fun-filled day at theme park to simply just wandering around the heritage street, Malaysia can make it all happen.

So, we’ve come out with the list of popular places to visit in Malaysia for you to narrow down your travel bucket list!

Pick one and start packing your luggage.

Top 35 Places To Visit In Malaysia

1. taman negara.

Wander through Taman Negara to escape into the lush rainforest and discover the wildlife you never seen before! Being one of the top nature places to visit in Malaysia, this 130 million years old tropical rainforest is situated at the heart of Peninsular Malaysia.

Covering 4,343 square kilometers which is about 7 times bigger than Singapore, there are lots of adventure and nature activities offered inside. Hence, your trip to Taman Negara is never dull but filled with great fun.

Taman Negara Highlights:

• Canopy walkway – Enjoy the magnificent view of greenery 40m above ground level while walking through the 1.2km canopy walkway – the longest canopy walkway in the world.
• Night jungle trekking – The best way to check out the nocturnal creatures living inside the tropical rainforest. You might spot tapir, reindeer and wild boar.
• Rapid shooting – Follow the boatman and ride through 6 rapids in a wooden boat. Be prepared to get wet!
• Kampung Orang Asli Visitation – Explore and respect the remote living of local people in the jungle away from modernization. Here, you can try bamboo hunting using the blowpipe.

2. Genting Highlands

Located on the summit of Ulu Kali Mountain, Genting Highlands aka Resorts World Genting presents you another stunning version of Las Vegas!

A secret for you is, this is the only legal gambling spot in Malaysia. And beside the casino, it encompasses premium shopping malls, theme parks and hotels.

The perfect location on the top means you get to enjoy the cool weather while exploring outdoors without the worry of getting tan. It’s a great place to beat the heat too.

Also read:  Singapore To Malaysia: 5 Easy Transport

Genting Highlands Highlights:

• Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park is opened at year 2022. It’s definitely the favourite place of thrill seekers.
• Awana Skyway – A 10-minute cable car ride which connected to SkyAvenue Shopping Mall.
• Chin Swee Caves Temple – It houses a 9-storey Pagoda where visitors are welcomed to climb up to the peak. The amazing views of the mountain truly leave you in awe.
• Genting Casino – Test your luck at the most popular venues in Genting Highlands where more than 400 table games and 3,000 slots machines are available. The entry is restricted for adults above 21 years old.

3. Tioman Island

Approximately 56km off the east coast of Pahang lies the hidden gems of Malaysia – Tioman Island .

Fringed by swaying palm trees and surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, this island has a serene and tranquil atmosphere which is perfect for a short getaway from Singapore . It’s one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

Also read:  10 Best Island Near Mersing, Johor

Tioman Island Highlights:

• Duty-free island – Items sold here are cheaper compared to those in the mainland, especially alcohol which costs only a few ringgit here.
• Diving – If you are new to diving, there are many dive schools complemented with experienced and qualified trainers to teach and train you in the friendliest way.
• Snorkelling – Home to endless lovely coral reef, you can enjoy snorkelling at the sea right in front of your resort.
• Jungle trekking – For nature lovers, trek from Tekek to Monkey Bay orJuara to discover spectrum of flora and fauna.
• Waterfall exploration – Enjoy a dip or swim at Mukut Waterfall or Asah Waterfall. Both waterfall has a very astonishing view.
• Deep-sea fishing – As fishing is prohibited at marine park, all fishing trips are arranged at least 25km away from the coast.

4. Cameron Highlands

Beat the hot weather and escape into Malaysia’s most popular highlands destination – Cameron Highlands. Filled with endless things to do, this verdant destination is truly one of the must go for all mountain person. Below are the highlight attractions in Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Highlands Highlights:

• BOH Tea Plantation – It is a must of places to visit in Malaysia to learn about the process of tea making. Visitors can take a sip of tea while enjoying the tea plantation view.
• Lavender Garden – Admire the sea of purple lavender while taking a leisure walk with loved ones is truly the best moments you experience in your lifetime.
• Big Red Strawberry Farm – Enjoy handpicking the freshest strawberries at the farm. You can have their freshly made strawberry ice-cream too.
• Honey Bee Farm – Visit the gallery of bee nests and purchase their quality homemade honey productions.
• Thompson Falls – A serene waterfall far away from city buzz. Best to take a dip and meditate.

5. Gunung Mulu National Park, Miri

Whether you want to physically challenge yourself trekking into the pristine rainforest or explore the mysterious cave system on the Earth, Gunung Mulu National Park has it all. It is a famous Malaysia tourist places to visit.

Also read:  Gunung Lambak : One Of The Nearest & Famous Mountain From Singapore!

The special thing about this national park is, it can only be accessed by plane. Other mode of transport is way too troublesome and dangerous for us.

Gunung Mulu National Park Highlights:

• The Pinnacles – Resembling upturned knives jamming right into the Earth, the view of this magnificent limestone formations is overwhelming. Truly the most spectacular view on the Earth!
• Deer Cave –This is the second biggest cave passage in the world that homes to myriad of wrinkled-lipped bats.
• Mulu Canopy Skywalk – Go for it if you are not suffering from vertigo. This 480m long canopy walkway is supported by thick trunks and there are viewing platforms around the trunks.
• Clearwater cave – Beat 200 steps staircase up to the longest cave in Asia. You can see the unusual underground river too.

6. Niah National Park, Miri

Do you want to know how the settlement of human looks like 40,000 years ago?

Featuring one of the largest and oldest caverns on the Earth, Niah National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia offers you a fun jungle walk and wonderful cave experiences like no other.

Also read:  7 Popular National Parks In Malaysia

With merely 2-hour drive from Miri town, you will arrive at this pristine national park. A 20-minute easy trek will bring you to the cave entrance. From there, you will encounter different caves and discover ancient ways of living.

Niah National Park Highlights:

• Great Cave – This is where the inhabitant of human 40,000 years ago was found, making it one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
• Painted Cave –The cave houses ancient wall paintings but the area was fenced as the drawings are really fragile and deteriorating now.
• Niah Archaeology Museum –A great place to learn about the cave ecosystem, geology and the prehistoric archaeology.
• Gan Kira – This is the burial site during Neolithic period. Lots of ornaments and potteries were discovered.

7. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Meet and interact with the lovely orang utans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve! Established in 1975, this is the biggest orang utans Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak and it is located merely 20km south from Kuching.

Nowadays, there are not much places in the world where we can look at our jungle cousins up close like this. Here, the orang utans are either born in the protected area or were rescued from captivity. Training was given to them until they are fully ready to be released into the jungle.

Semenggoh Nature Reserve Highlights:

• Orang Utan feeding session – The feeding session happens at 9:00am and 3:00pm daily. Plan your day well so that you won’t miss this golden opportunity to closely look at grown-up orang utans begging for food!
• Spectrum of flora and fauna – Giant squirrel and different kinds of bird species can be spotted around.

8. Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching

With an attracting slogan “See Sarawak in Half a Day”, Sarawak Cultural Village stands as an award-winning museum that introduces the lifestyles and cultures of different ethnic groups in Sarawak in the most interesting way. These ethnic groups include Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau and Penan.

Currently, there are over 150 locals living here, presenting tourists the ways of processing sago, handicrafts making and many more. You can also take part in their workshops to learn and experience their customs in their original home.

Sarawak Cultural Village Highlights:

• Traditional dance performances – Expect to be surprised by this 45-minute show which presents you numerous tribes’ dances depicted by the professional local dancers.
• Longhouses visitation – Take a stroll to the villages of different ethnic groups and find the differences between them. Sometimes, you might be invited to join their nightly ceremonies and have a sip of their rice wine and tuak.
• Rainforest World Music Festival – This is an annual music festival which successfully attracts performers and visitors from all over the world.

9. Sipadan Island

Internationally known as one of the world’s best scuba diving sites, Sipadan Island homes to over 3,000 species of sea creatures and hundreds of beautiful coral reefs.

Being the only marine island in Malaysia, it is also one of the few places to visit in Malaysia that offer you the charming views of different species of sea turtles on the beach. Besides, this oceanic island boasts an awe-inspiring view that could easily take your breath away.

Image Credits: tashggw

Sipadan Island Highlights:

• Scuba Diving – No trip to Sipadan Island is completed without taking part in scuba diving. It is impossible to list out all the fishes you might discover in the water. Feedback from the divers is sometimes they encounter sharks at close hand! However, night diving is prohibited here.
• Snorkelling – If scuba diving is too hard for you, you can also discover the fantastic underwater world through snorkelling which offers you equal fun as the scuba diving! Sea turtles are sometimes spotted while you are snorkelling too.
• Bird-watching – Declared as the sanctuary of birds, you can find wood Pigeons, Sunbirds, starlings, Kingfishers and Sea Eagles here.

10. Desa Dairy Farm, Kundasang

Known as a small New Zealand in Sabah, Desa Dairy Farm is a cattle farm that produces around 900,000 liters milk every year.

Covering 199 hectares, this is a famous tourist destination which located approximately 100km away from Kota Kinabalu. Together with the scenic mountain views, travellers always feel so satisfying to get to enjoy the fresh and delicious dairy products in the cool weather.

Desa Dairy Farm Highlights:

• Photo taking with Mount Kinabalu as a backdrop – The magnificent mountain views is excellent to take an Instagram photo. This place always serves as wedding photography destination too.
• Food kiosk – You can try the freshest milk, ice-cream, yogurt and pudding from the farm here.
• Calf & goat feeding – Enjoy feeding calf and got with bottled milk and grass.
• Cow milking process – Visitors are only allowed to see the cow milking process from far. The process is very efficient and systematic too.

11. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a marine park made up of 5 islands, namely Gaya Island, Mamutik Island, Sapi Island, Sulug Island and Manukan Island.

All these islands are just a short boat ride from one another. During weekend, lots of tourists are here for day trip, either walking through the jungles or enjoy the perfect serenity at their untouched beaches. Basic accommodations are offered at Mamutik, Gaya and Manukan.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Highlights:

• Diving – The marine park offers 25 decent dive sites in total. Dive center can be accessed all around the island. Some offer the dive trips to nearby islands like Tiga Island and Mantamani Island too.
• Snorkelling – Sapi Island and Manukan Island offer several beautiful public beaches where snorkelling can be enjoyed.
• Jungle trekking – At Gaya Island, there are 20km trails where you might encounter proboscis monkeys, monitor lizards and bearded pigs along the way.
• Sailing, kayaking and BBQ dinner can be enjoyed here too.

12. Mount Kinabalu

The first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia – Mount Kinabalu has delighted endless nature lovers as they are able to witness spectrum of flora and fauna at different altitudes. Hence, it also serves as one of the world’s most important biological sites until the present day.

Also read:  7 Captivating Hills in Johor For Weekend Hiking

Towering at 4,095m above the sea level, climbers always find it challenging yet rewarding conquering the height. At the peak, it reveals a vast view of Borneo mountains. If you reach here before dawn, you will be blessed with the most beautiful sunrise ever.

Mount Kinabalu Highlights:

• Summit trail – This is a shorter route that has many trail shelters along the way. The journey to the top takes around 6 to 8 hours.
• Mesilau trail – Suitable for adventurous climbers, this trail is relatively slippered than any other trails, especially during wet season.
• Poring Hot Spring – You might spot Rafflesia – the biggest flower on the Earth while making your way to the hot spring.

13. Endau Rompin National Park

Just like the Taman Negara, Endau Rompin National Park which consists one of the world’s oldest rainforest has so much to offer. If you wonder, it has its name from the 2 rivers flowing through the park, which are Endau River and Rompin River.

This national park is not that easily accessible and the trekking is quite challenging too. However, the difficulty still seduced endless adventure seekers from all over the world every year.

Endau Rompin National Park Highlights:

• Explore deep into the jungle – Guided by Orang Asli (native people) who live in the Kampung Peta, they will show you the edible plants and safe water sources along the way.
• Buaya Sangkut Waterfall – The trek to this pristine waterfall isn’t that easy. It requires rope to assist you in climbing the steep slopes.
• Blue water lake – Due to the sunlight reflection, the lake looks dazzling blue during the day.
• Rubber tube rafting, night safari and night trekking are the activities you shouldn’t miss out too.

14. Legoland Malaysia

Kids rejoice! Specially designed for children aged 2-12, Legoland Malaysia is a Lego theme park perfect for a family holiday. With more than 70 exciting rides, shows, and interactive activities, it brings adventure, fun and education altogether, making your childhood dream comes true!

Legoland Malaysia Highlights:

• Divided into theme park and water park, all attractions inside Legoland Malaysia are made from Lego bricks.
• The theme park consists of 8 themes, namely The Beginning, Lego Kingdom, Lego Technic, Land of Adventure, Miniland, Lego City, Imagination and the newly added indoor themed – Lego Ninjago.
• For the water park, there are surfing opportunities, a lazy river, exciting water slides and many interactive play structures for little ones.
• There is also a Legoland Hotel beside which features comfortable lego-themed rooms to bring every childhood imagination comes to life.

15. Rawa Island

You probably didn’t know Maldives do exist in Malaysia. Off the east coast of Johor lies a hidden gem – Rawa Island which is completely surrounded by majestic coral kingdom.

Snow white sands, dazzling blue sea and rich marine life, the island is just like a paradise you wish you could stay here forever.

Rawa Island Highlights:

• Snorkelling – At just 20-30m from the shore, you can enjoy snorkelling all the way from northern to southern part of the beach.
• Hiking – Explore the inner part of the island through hiking to the hilltop. At the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
• Island hopping – Take part in the island hopping to nearby islands like Mensirip Island and Harimau Island . You can also have a picnic there.
• Kayaking – See the island from a different angle – from the middle of the ocean. It could be the most memorable experience in your lifetime.
• Water slides – Splash into the sea after several twists and turns gliding down the orange slides. Best for thrill seekers.

16. UK Farm

In need a short getaway to nature? At UK Farm in Kluang, Johor, you will be able to experience an agro-vacation that brings you closer to farm animals and its natural surroundings.

Choose one of the UK Farm tour packages offered and start packing your luggage. Let’s go!

UK Farm Highlights:

• Goat Milking Process Centre – See how the experts milk the goat. After that, you can have a taste of the freshest goat milk. Milks and other products are sold here too.
• Jakun Village – Enjoy blowpipe performance, discover the self-made hunting traps and admire the interesting tree house from Orang Asli!
• Animals feeding – Grab the golden chance to feed animals like ostriches and chicken.
• Fruit farm – Pluck yourself some juicy fruits to stay hydrated in the hot afternoon.
• Stunning night life – You can enjoy singing karaoke in room or releasing the stunning sky lanterns into the sky at night!

17. Petronas Twin Towers

You can’t just visit Kuala Lumpur without going to this iconic landmark – Petronas Twin Towers. Inspired by Malaysia’s former Prime Minister – Tun Mahathir Mohamad, this 88-storey twin skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world – from 1998 to 2004. It’s one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

With the built of a sky bridge on the 41st floors, it gives you the chance to touch the skylines of Kuala Lumpur. Sounds amazing? Let’s not miss the chance to see the panoramic views of city landscape from atop while you are here.

Petronas Twin Towers Highlights:

• Suria KLCC – A 6-storey shopping mall that houses top-notch brands of the world, an art gallery, a science discovery centre and a concert hall.
• Aquaria KLCC – With more than 150 species of sea creatures, this aquarium takes you to different underwater landscapes. There’s even a 90m tunnel completely surrounded by sharks and huge stingrays.
• KLCC Park – Visit the park at night to enjoy the amazing dancing music fountain in the middle.

18. Menara KL Tower

Featuring a fantastic observation deck, Menara KL Tower offers every visitor a golden chance to see the sparkling city landscape view which is so glorious regardless day and night.

Together with Petronas Twin Towers, these 2 skyscrapers stand as the most recognizable landmark in Kuala Lumpur and both are the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur.

Menara KL Tower Highlights:

• KL Tower Observation Deck& Sky Deck – Both decks offer breathtaking views from top. For braver persons, head to the unsheltered Sky Deck for a more overwhelming view.
• 360 Revolving Restaurant – Here, you can enjoy fine dining amidst the clouds – at a height of 282m above the ground.
• Blue Coral Aquarium – This is a tropical rainforest aquarium offering spectrum of coral fishes and sharks. Different species of coral reefs can be spotted too.
• KL Forest Eco-Park – As the tower is nestled in Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, visitors are welcomed to visit this eco-park amongst the hustling city. There’s also a 200m canopy walk offering a vista of greenery.

19. Merdeka Square

A place where Malaysia’s independence was declared; a place where Malayan flag first raised; a place where annual National Day celebrations and the New Year countdown was held. Yes, Merdeka Square which literally means Independence Square is truly the most memorable landmark in Malaysia!

Merdeka Square Highlights:

• National Day Parade is held here every year.
• There is an enormous flag pole with fluttering Malaysian flag – one of the tallest flag poles in the world.
• The Sultan Abdul Samad Building – Built by British, the majestic building now houses office of the Ministry of Malaysia.
• Well-maintained gardens, fountains and terraces, the square is best for an Instagram picture.
• It is easily accessible to other attractions like Kuala Lumpur City Gallery and St Mary’s Anglican Cathedral.

20. Sunway Lagoon

Your best day ever begins here! For every adventurer as well as water activity enthusiasts, Sunway Lagoon is a fun-filled park featuring over 90 thrilling rides and attractions in 6 different zones.

The 6 zones are Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon, Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park and Scream Park. As the park is extremely big, grab a map and fully utilise it to perfectly plan your day!

Also read:  7 Awesome Water Parks In Johor

Sunway Lagoon Highlights:

• Bungee Jump, G-Force X and Go Kart are some of the extreme sports available. Best for adrenaline junkies.
• At the wildlife theatre inside the Wildlife Park, catch the wildlife multi-animal show that starts at 3pm.
• The amusement park houses the first 360-degree rotating pirate ship in Malaysia. It takes you swivelling at 24m above the ground.
• At the surf beach, different waves patterns are generated at up to 8 feet. The experience will definitely delight every aspiring surfer.
• After the day, enjoy your dinner at Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall just located beside Sunway Lagoon.

21. Batu Caves

Dedicated to the Lord Murugan, Batu Caves is also one of the best places to visit in Malaysia that consists of 3 limestone caves featuring Hindu shrines and Hindu temples.

Every year, Batu Caves seduces lots of tourists and worshippers from all over the world, especially when Hindu festival Thaipusam is around the corner.

As this is a religious site, avoid wearing short skirts or hot pants while paying a visit.

Batu Caves Highlights:

• There is a tall golden statue of Lord Muruga at the cave’s entrance.
• Cathedral Cave – The biggest cave here that requires every visitor to climb 272 steps staircases to the top.
• Museum Cave & Art Gallery Cave – Located at the foot of the hill, these 2 caves are fully filled with paintings and Hindu statues. Audio tour is available too.
• Ramayana Cave – A place to learn about the story of Lord Rama.

22. Broga Hill

Nestled in Selangor, Broga Hill is a popular hiking trail among the locals. It gets its name from the Broga River that flows through the vicinity. Every weekend, the place is crowded since early in the morning in order to catch the sunrise. This place is best for a morning person, casual hikers and trail runners.

Broga Hill Highlights:

• There are 3 hilltops in total – Among the 3 hilltops, many said the second hilltop offers the best view.
• Striking view at the peak (400m) – You will see the view of the village and its surrounding greenery until the far horizon. Best if you reach early to catch the golden sunrise!
• The journey is approximately 1-hour . Don’t worry about the difficulty. From easy to moderate level, you can choose the trails according to your fitness level. Along the way, you can take as many pictures as you want.
• Coconut stall – Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink at the foot of the hill after descending from the peak.

23. Georgetown Heritage Walk

Take a heritage walk along the Georgetown and let the street tells you the story from ancient until the present day. Lined with old classic shophouses, this is where the charm of Penang lies at – delicious local delicacies, mixing architecture of eastern and western buildings and wonderful mural arts!

Georgetown Heritage Walk Highlights:

• You don’t need a car to get around the streets. All attractions are within walking distance from each other. However, you can take a trishaw ride to add some colours to your tour.
• Mural arts – There are surprisingly huge amounts of mural arts in every corner of the streets. Sometimes you may need to queue up to take pictures with these mural arts!
• Chew Jetty – Surrounded by wooden houses which are built over the water, there are lots of souvenirs shops and desserts stall lining the way to the jetty. The jetty which locates at the end is famous for photo taking too.
• St George’s Church – Remember to pay a visit to the oldest Anglican church in Southeast part of Asia.
• Goddess of Mercy Temple – Penang’s oldest Chinese temple which overlooks the sea.

24. Penang Hill

Penang Hill is probably the last remaining yet interesting part in Penang where you can have some quiet moments with nature.

It comprises 6 peaks reachable by different hiking trails and there are numerous sights along the way. If you don’t prefer hiking, a Penang Hill Funicular Train is set up to bring you up. At the summit, you will be rewarded with a panoramic vista of the mainland and beautiful islands.

Penang Hill Highlights:

• Penang Hill Funicular Train – Malaysia’s one of a kind train that brings visitors up the hill.
• The highest point of Penang Hill is at the Western Hill, 800m above the sea level. It is accessible via the train.
• Old buildings from British colonial are found on the hill. The famous one would be Bel Retiro – a British government bungalow.
• Mother nature – Immerse in the green nature while taking leisure trek along the trails. Slipper Orchid and Monkey Cup and be spotted along the way.

25. Kek Lok Si Temple

Standing magnificently on the hilltop and facing the sea, Kek Lok Si Temple is Malaysia’s biggest Buddhist temple built in 1891. Divided into 3 zones, the temple boasts hundreds of meaningful sculptures, carvings, murals, as well as the striking pagoda and archway.

It treasures not only the precious Buddha teaching and Chinese culture but also the heritage of Mahayana Buddhism that blends with them in harmony. Every day, the temple is visited by worshippers and tourists from all over the world.

Kek Lok Si Temple Highlights:

• Grand enormous statue of Kuan Yin – Goddess of Mercy is located at hilltop.
• Impressive Rama VI pagoda – A 7-storey high tower located at the center of the temple.
• Fish ponds, turtle ponds, beautiful gardens and 12 lovely animal statues representing each Chinese zodiac sign can be found here.

26. Lost World Tambun

Located at Ipoh, the Lost World Tambun is more than just a fun-filled theme park. Instead, it is an ultimate day and night destination that offers something to every one of us – from amusement park rides to amazing eco-adventure. Educational elements are added to the park too.

Also read:  5 Theme Parks In Johor For Families & Kids

Lost World Tambun Highlights:

• Water Park – Wave pool, adventure river and water slides offered are friendly to all ages.
• Amusement Park – For braver ones, this area offers you an array of speedy rides that will have you soaring or flying in the sky.
• Tin Valley – A place to educate today’s generation about the knowledge of tin mining.
• Tiger Valley – Catch the tiger feeding show and be amazed by their strength and power.
• Adventure Park – Work as a team to overcome all challenges in the team building activities.
• Petting Zoo – Be friends with animals from more than 55 species.
• Luminous Forest – Immerse yourself in the world of dazzling flowers and magical creatures.

27. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Literally means the Cave of Ultimate Blis, Kek Lok Tong is a unique cavern temple situated at the outskirts of the Ipoh city. It’s great to pay a visit in the morning because the natural lightning and the cool breeze is extremely refreshing. For Buddhism, you can pray here too.

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple Highlights:

• A lotus candle can be purchased and you can write your names down. The money goes for a prayer offering.
• The temple is located inside the magnificent limestone cave. There are plenty of wonderful Buddhist sculptures around.
• At the garden, visitors can jog along the trails that surround the lakes. There are reflexology footpaths too.
• There is also an elegant pond filled with fishes, turtles and waterlilies.

28. Perhentian Islands

Located 21km off the coast of Terengganu, Perhentian Islands consist of 2 islands which are famed for their pristine nature and rich marine life. The bigger island is mainly for luxury getaway; while the smaller island offers budget accommodations, which are suitable for backpackers.

Perhentian Island Highlights:

• Scuba diving – Despite discovering fishes and coral reefs, you may encounter harmless sharks and sea turtles while diving here.
• Snorkelling – The popular snorkelling spots include Shark Point, Teluk Pauh and Tanjung Basi. You can even snorkel right in front of your accommodation too.
• Kayaking – You can also paddle around the island on your own. Sometimes you may discover the secluded beaches that give you more privacy.

29. Redang Island

Another elegant island located 45km off the coast of Terengganu is Redang Island. It is famous places to visit in Malaysia for its dazzling blue water; snow white beach and it boasts many tropical fishes inhabiting the coral reefs too. This makes the island a delightful destination for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Due to the rich marine life, the island is declared as a part of the Redang Marine Park, whereby visitors have to pay an entrance fee upon arrival. Another thing to take note is: jet skiing, water skiing and fishing are banned to protect the quality and serenity of the marine park.

Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan

Redang Island Highlights:

• Snorkelling – This is the must-do activity on the island and there are endless snorkelling tours to nearby islands. There is a shipwreck near the jetty, which is a perfect spot for exploration via snorkelling.
• Turtle watching – The island houses a turtle conservation center and a green turtle nursery – SEATRU. You can volunteer, help them to collect turtle eggs and incubate them.

30. Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable Car (aka Sky Cab) is one of the relaxing and engaging places to visit in Malaysia you can indulge in Langkawi Island.

Depart from the Base Station, the cable car ride will bring you up to the Mount Machincang. At the top station, lots of activities are available and it’s hard to enjoy them all in just a day.

The 15-minute cable car takes you up to a height of 708m in a very steep gradient. Along the way, you will see spectacular views of islands, waterfalls, mountains and occasional sight of birds and wildlife.

Langkawi Cable Car Highlights:

• At the top station, you can access the SkyGlide – a unique elevator with glass panels on every side to provide a clear view of Machincang mountain. Or, you can walk on the Langkawi Sky Bridge for an unfolding mountain viewing experience.

31. Langkawi Sky Bridge

Completed in 2004, Langkawi Sky Bridge is a free span pedestrian bridge located on the summit of Mount Manchincang. The curving design is practised to maximise the mountain viewing experience.

Swinging out to offer a special spatial experience to all visitor, a walk on the sky bridge is truly the most amazing place to visit in Langkawi Island you can experience. You really feel yourself standing at the same height with the mountains around you!

Langkawi Sky Bridge Highlights:

• Built by stainless steel, this sky bridge is 125m long and 1.8m wide and can accommodate 200 people at once.
• The sky bridge is accessible through the cable car ride to the top station followed by an inclinator lift ride called SkyGlide. Or, you can choose a nature walk from the top station to the sky bridge.

32. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Langkawi

Spanning over 100 square kilometers, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a nature reserve park consists of mangrove swamps, vertical karstic hills and beautiful beaches. Several limestone formations that aged over 500 million years old are discovered here.

The park can be explored by taking a boat cruise along the Kilim river. However, if you want to explore the park at your own, there are kayaks and private boats available and can be rented at almost all of the tour operators on the island.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Highlights:

• When the boat takes you to dense mangroves swamps, you will see many amazing animals like monitor lizards, mud carbs, otter and sometimes crocodiles.
• Eagle feeding – This is truly an unforgettable sight where you will see eagles catching for chicken thrown from the boat.
• Bat Cave – A place where you will see colonies of bats flying all over your head or hanging on the wall.
• Tanjung Rhu – The boat tour will bring you to this white sandy beach fringed by casuarina tree. You can swim or take a stroll here.

33. A Famosa Fort

Built in 1511, A Famosa Fort aka Porta De Santiago stands proudly as one of the oldest surviving European remains in eastern country, making it the major tourist destination in Malaysia.

Located in Malacca, this historical sightseeing spot is built by Portuguese to defend themselves against invasion after they defeated the local Sultanate. During the time, the fort housed the entire government administration, hospital, churches as well as key towers.

Later in 1806, the fort was destroyed by British, left only the front gate which we see today.

A Famosa Fort Highlights:

• Typical tourist photo in Malacca was taken here.
• You can learn about the history of the Portuguese.
• This fort is the entryway to the St Paul’s Church at the top of the hill.

34. Jonker Street

If you want to enjoy the best food in Malacca , then you shouldn’t miss out the Jonker Street which is the center street of the Chinatown in Malacca! There are many antique shops lining the street, be it clothing, crafts or local food, you can find them here.

The best part about Jonker Street is, it turns into a vibrant night market every Friday and Saturday, selling everything ranging from tasty street food to unique gifts. A lot of hotels and homestays can be found here too.

Jonker Street Highlights:

• Jonker Walk Night Market – Everything about the night market is colourful. Food, bars, live performances and clothes are all available.
• There are museums along the street showcasing the culture and history of Malacca. For instance, Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum and Cheng Ho’s Cultural Museum.
• For Buddhist, do pay a visit to the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple which believed to be one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia.

35. Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a coastal town nestled in Negeri Sembilan which widely known as a beach resort destination. Fringed with long stretches of beaches and beautiful sea, it boasts exciting attractions like extreme park, army museum and ostrich farm too, suitable for a wholesome day.

As Port Dickson is well-connected to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur through the highway, it serves as an easily accessible family vacation destination. Besides, there are many budget and luxury resorts and hotels available for a pleasant stay.

Image credits: lexishibiscuspd.com

Port Dickson Highlights:

• Best beaches to visit include Pantai Cahaya Negeri, Pantai Tanjung Biru and Pantai Saujana.
• To learn about the military history and weaponry of Malaysia, go to the Port Dickson Army Museum and take as many pictures as you can.
• You can pet and ride an ostrich at the PD Ostrich Farm.
• For spectacular view of the Straits of Malacca and secluded beaches from above, go to the Cape Rachado – the lighthouse at the southern part of Port Dickson.

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