nature places to visit in malaysia

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Top 25 Things To Do in Malaysia for Nature Lovers

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Malaysia is one of my favorite countries– a place I fell in love with the first time I visited. When people ask me why, I normally start talking and never stop. I mean, what’s not to like?

There are so many things to do in Malaysia, including exploring modern cities and tiny villages, a cuisine that ranks among the best in Asia, and an incredibly diverse culture.

Wandering around Kuala Lumpur or Georgetown, you’ll glimpse the onion domes of mosques, smell incense floating out of Buddhist temples and jasmine from flower garlands outside Hindu temples.

In Borneo, you’ll have the chance to discover the life and culture of indigenous tribes that have remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years.

But what makes Malaysia truly special is the country’s natural beauty. From rainforests to crystalline seas, Malaysia offers once-in-a-lifetime ecotourism experiences.

You can see wild orangutans, spend the night in a hut in the Taman Negara rainforest, and Scuba dive the incredible sites of Pulau Sipadan.

Here are our picks for the 25 top things to do in Malaysia for nature lovers . I can virtually guarantee that these experiences will make you fall in love with this stunning country.

READ MORE: Saving Endangered Asian Animals (Best Wildlife Conservation Programs)

• Peninsular Malaysia
• Island of Borneo
• Island of Penang
• Other Islands of Malaysia

PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

Explore the Batu Caves

Located just outside of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are one of the major ecotourism attractions in Malaysia. If you love nature, it’s a place you won’t want to miss when traveling around the country.

You can get to the area by public transport from Kuala Lumpur, and it’s an easy half-day trip when you’re based in the city.

At the entrance, you’ll see the famous golden statue of Lord Murugan next to quite a few souvenir stalls, as well as the hundreds of steps leading up to the caves.

Just beware of the monkeys along the way! They’re full of shenanigans, and are know for stealing things when tourists aren’t looking. The caves also serve as Hindu temples, you’ll see people praying and giving offers inside the mountain.

Although the site is often too full of visitors for some people’s taste, I enjoyed my visit to the Batu Caves. The beauty of both the caves themselves and the temples inside them were very impressive.  -Patrick Muntzinger of  German Backpacker

READ MORE: 10 Amazing Caves For Your World Travel Bucket List

Look for Rafflesias in Cameron Highlands

When the heat and humidity gets too much, do as Malaysians do and head to Cameron Highlands, a hilly area near Kuala Lumpur.

There’s plenty to see and do in Cameron Highlands, including visiting tea and strawberry plantations, where you can enjoy delicious tea and strawberry jam!

Cameron Highlands also offers hiking opportunities, with a dozen numbered hill trails offering stunning views.

If you’re lucky, you may also be able to see Rafflesia flowers in bloom. These giant, stinky flowers can be found in the area all year-round.

Ask your hotel or lodge for details, as flowering locations vary and you’ll likely need a local guide to help you find them. -Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet

Hike to Chiling Waterfall

Chiling Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall and fish sanctuary located in a tranquil tropical Malaysian forest.

Located within a gazetted forest reserve, the waterfall is only open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The local authorities did this order to maintain the area’s pristine ecosystem.

Other than serving as a fish sanctuary, the waterfall is also one of the main water sources for people living in the surrounding Klang Valley.

Reaching the waterfall requires a relatively easy hike of about 45 minutes, including six river crossings. Although the deepest water level that you will come across is only up to your knees, crossing is fun because the river is teeming with fish .

Chiling Waterfall is easily my favorite hiking spot in Malaysia. Even though it’s not considered one of the best waterfalls in the world , I feel completely connected to nature whenever I’m here.

It’s also becoming my preferred hiking location whenever a friend from another country drops by.   -Wayne Liew of  kuaby

  READ MORE: The Best Hiking Trails (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

Explore Forest Research Institute Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is a busy, crowded, polluted city. It’s definitely worth a visit for the famed Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, and great street food scene.

But the constant traffic and concrete of this major metropolis may leave diehard nature lovers yearning to get away from all the chaos and commotion.

FRIM (short for Forest Research Institute Malaysia) is a great location for spending a day or more in the great outdoors. Located just 15 miles outside of central Kuala Lampur, it’s a beautiful forest surrounded by trees, birds and silence.

There are numerous walking trails there, with information about the rainforest ecosystem, a canopy walk, and an interesting visitor center.

It’s a tranquil haven of serenity that makes for a perfect escape when the hustle and bustle of the city becomes too much to bear. – -Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet

Asian Colonial History in Malacca

For centuries, the East and West have been in contact through trading and colonization. Some of the best historical cities in Malaysia that highlight this era of history are located in the state of Malacca.

Known locally as Melaka, the area is affectionately known as the Historic State. Malacca is the center of the Malay culture, and has had an impact on the cultures of both modern Malaysia and Indonesia.

Along with Georgetown (which is located in Penang, to the north), the Old City of Malacca has been granted UNESCO protection as the Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca.

The old town of Malacca is lined with Portuguese and Dutch-style churches, impressive colonial government buildings and squares, along with walls and fortifications. The layers of multicultural heritage found in Malacca is both staggering and exciting.

My favorite thing to do there is to visit the tombs of Hang Tuah and Hang Jebat, who were classic heroes from the 15th century Malacca Sultanate.

Growing up in neighboring Indonesia, we learned all about these iconic figures in history class. -Halef and Michael of  The Round The World Guys

READ MORE: The Top 5 Things To Do In Indonesia

Get Lost in Taman Negara

Malaysia’s oldest national park is Taman Negara (which means “national park”), which is located in the center of Peninsular Malaysia.

Taman Negara is a wonderful place to explore the rainforest. You can spend the night in a hide in the hope of spotting elusive wildlife species such as Slow Lorises and Leopards .

Make sure you hire a guide if you’re planning to sleep out. The trails are overgrown and hard to follow, and you may end up getting lost in Taman Negara, like we did!

If you’re not into extreme adventures, there’s also a canopy walk and shorter trails available near park headquarters.

READ MORE: Visiting the Orang Asli, the “Original People” of Taman Negara

THINGS TO DO ON THE ISLAND OF BORNEO

Find Flora & Fauna in Bako National Park

Situated just 30 minutes by car from the city of Kuching, Bako National Park is Sarawak’s oldest national park.

Bako is small, covering just 27 square kilometers. But, despite its small size, the park is home to all kinds of verdant vegetation, including mangrove forests , swamp forests, and delicate cliff vegetation.

Bako is so diverse that you can actually find every type of vegetation Borneo has in this one park.

It’s also home to a diverse array of wildlife. You’ll see plenty of long-tailed macaque monkeys and silver leaf monkeys, both of which are always on the lookout for things that they can steal from you.

Another animal you’re likely to see is the wild boar, many of which are so tame that they’ll come right up to you. Like the monkeys, they’re looking for things to steal, so keep your hand on anything valuable or anything they shouldn’t eat.

Perhaps the most exciting animal that lives in Bako is the bizarre-looking proboscis monkey . Bako is home to roughly 300 of them, and you’re most likely to spot them at dawn or dusk.

During the rest of the day, the park has 16 fantastic walking trails to suit every need and ability. Some take as little as 30 minutes to trek, while others can take an entire day.

This is a remarkably beautiful part of Malaysia. Its natural beauty is so serene that it’s almost impossible not to relax here. – James of the Portugalist

READ MORE: Visiting the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Malaysia

See the Bird’s Nests of Gomatong Cave

One of our favorite things to do in Malaysia is to visit Gomatong Cave.  The cave is located in Sandakan, which makes it a convenient place to explore after a jungle stay along the Kinabatangan River.

The prime reason most people travel to this cave is to see the edible bird’s nests, a Chinese delicacy , which are harvested there.

It was an interesting place to visit, as not only birds but also bats call the cave home. As a result, there’s a huge pile of guano in the center of the cave which, in turn, attracted other creepy crawlies.

I will not go into the details, but let’s just say we witnessed an ecosystem there the likes of which we had never seen before.

The Gomatong Cave is situated in a protected wildlife area. So, as you make your way along the path towards the cave, you should definitely keep your eyes open for orangutans.

We saw two of them during our visit, and other people reported that they’d also seen lemurs and colorful kingfishers.  -Sylvia Van Overvelt of Wapiti Travel

READ MORE:   Conserving Ring-Tailed Lemurs at Anja Reserve, Madagascar

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu rears 4,095 meters (13,435 ft) above the lush forests of Borneo, an enormous granite monolith that has become a magnet for adventurous visitors to Malaysia.

Tens of thousands of people climb the mountain each year. But fortunately the UNESCO-protected Kinabalu National Park carefully controls the tourist footprint, issuing a limited number of permits and requiring all trekkers to hire a local guide.

The first day’s hiking follows a clear path through richly-canopied forest , where mosses and bright tropical flowers are picked out by shafts of sunlight.

Climbing through the various vegetation zones of the mountain is fascinating. You’ll go from lowland rainforest, through cloud forest, and on to sub-alpine meadows before reaching the granite fields of the summit plateau.

Getting up at 2 AM and summoning every iota of determination to make the final trek at altitude is tough. But breathtaking views from the top at dawn are worth every gasping breath.

As the sun turns the granite to silver and gold, ribbons of white cloud drape the vast jungles of Borneo. – Natasha von Geldern  of World Wandering Kiwi

READ MORE: 20 Best Mountains in the World (for your World Travel Bucket List)

Wildlife Watching Along the Kinabatangan River

One of my most memorable experiences from my time in Malaysia was a rainy half-day cruise I took down the Kinabatangan River.

Now, many people go on three-day small ship cruises on the mighty body of water and never see any endangered animals (which include orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and more).

It can even be difficult to see some of the animals that live in abundance here, such as hornbills and crocodiles. However, even without any wildlife sightings, an afternoon on the river is an enchanting experience.

The day of my trip it was raining so hard that we couldn’t even see out from our bungalow. We napped until the storm passed, and at dusk we headed out on the river without any high hopes of coming across any majestic creatures.

However, luck was on our side, and the rainy afternoon called all sorts of animals to come out and enjoy the crisp evening weather.

We even came across a family of five pygmy elephants , which is a memory I’ll cherish forever. If you do go on a wildlife-watching cruise on the Kinabatangan River, it’s crucial to do so in a responsible way.

Book your cruise with a company that employs locals and takes measures not to leave a negative impact on the already fragile environment, such as Sticky Rice Tours. – Lola Méndez of  Miss Filatelista  

READ MORE: 50 Interesting Facts About Elephants

Snorkeling near Kota Kinabalu

One of the best things to do if you’re in Kota Kinabalu is to go snorkeling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. This underwater park is full of amazing wildlife , but my favorite moment of our day trip was swimming next to a wild hawksbill sea turtle.

Even if you’re not a diver , some of the reefs are shallow, which allows you to see parrot fish, clown fish, and even lionfish up close. It was incredible to see the marine ecosystem at work, especially in terms of seeing “Nemo” hiding amongst the anemone.

Just be warned: There are barracudas here. However, your knowledgeable guide will tell you how to stay safe while exploring in this easily accessible reef.

Our tour had all the snorkeling gear and lunch included, but I strongly recommend that any snorkelers wear sunscreen to avoid a nasty sunburn on your back.

Parts of the reef have suffered in the last ten years, but thankfully ecotourism is helping to fund the protection of the coral reef for the future. – Karen Turner of   Wanderlustingk

READ MORE: Cancun Underwater Museum (Artist Jason Decaires Taylor On His Marine Conservation Masterpiece)

Go Rainforest Kayaking Near Kuching

Borneo is one of the wildest parts of Southeast Asia. Indeed, much of this Malaysian territory’s jungle canopy is far from the tourist trail. Yet it remains easily accessible, with great opportunities for guided rainforest kayaking.

When we went near Kuching, a slow drizzle tickled my neck as we pushed through the tropical air and down the gentle river.

The soft buzz of water hitting leaves added another sonic layer to the sounds of our paddles and the life in the jungle on either side.

As the sun emerged, our local guides taught us all about the flora and fauna we were floating past. Then they fed us an indigenous lunch of bamboo chicken and local greens.

Thanks to the lazy current, it was easy to turn and stay on track. It was a fun adventure for the adults, but easy enough for our kids as well.   -Jason Andrew Jenkins of  An Epic Education  

READ MORE: 20 Biggest Forests in the World (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

Go Caving in Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is renowned for its immense biodiversity, the distinctive tropical karst terrain, and its vast cave network.

Located deep in the Borneo jungle, Mulu is recognized as one of Malaysia’s two natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Criteria for this designation include Mulu being the most studied tropical karst area in the world.

It has at least 295 kilometers of explored caves, including the largest known cave chamber in the world, Sarawak Chamber.

We ventured to this famous chamber, which is not an easy task. First, it takes a flight to reach Mulu’s isolated location. Then you must prove your spelunking skills to national park guides, who deem if you’re fit enough to attempt a trip into the Sarawak Chamber.

Each month, only a few two-day excursions to this cave are scheduled. It takes a 16-hour round-trip trek through the dense jungle. Finally, it’s a wet entry, swimming into the cave, where a huge racer snake greeted us in the dark water.

Unfortunately, we were unable to penetrate the expansive space of Sarawak Chamber because the cave was too flooded from recent rains. Yet just the attempt to get into the cave chamber was such an incredible and worthwhile adventure in and of itself.

Thankfully, Mulu National Park offers other cave superlatives, many of which are more easily accessible. For example, it only took a short stroll through the beautiful rainforest-covered mountains in order visit Deer Cave.

This is the largest known single passage cave in the world and contains the most species of bats found in a single cave.

Linger there at sunset and you’ll see millions of them taking flight into the night sky. -John Widmer of  Roaming Around the World

READ MORE:   Exploring Rio Secreto, the Riviera Maya’s Amazing Underground River

See Wild Orangutans in Sabah

Along with Sumatra, the island of Borneo is the last one where wild Orangutans can be found.

But unfortunately rampant deforestation to clear land for the palm oil industry has reduced Borneo’s orangutan population to a fraction of what it once was.

One of the best places to see wild Orangutans is Sabah, the northern Malaysian state in Borneo. The most accessible location is the Kinabatangan river, which is located near from the city of Sandakan.

But, for a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend heading further afield to the Danum Valley, which is immersed in the rainforest.  -Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet

READ MORE: Top Ecotourism Attractions in Sabah Borneo

Visit an Orangutan Rescue Center

If you’re really pressed for time, the easiest way to meet Malaysia’s beloved “men of the forest” is by heading to a rescue center at feeding time.

This when the Orangutans leave their forest hideouts and head to raised platforms. There, the rangers feed them fruit to the excited oooohs and aaaahs of onlookers.

The best Orangutan rescue centers to visit are Sepilok in Sabah and Semenggoh in Sarawak, which is near the state capital of Kuching.

READ MORE :  Bornean Orangutan Conservation at Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre

THINGS TO DO ON THE ISLAND OF PENANG

Climb Penang Hill

The island of Penang is known for its excellent food and colorful cultural festivals . But it’s not generally considered a nature destination.

Surprisingly, there are several locations not far from the capital of Georgetown where you can enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

For instance, you can ride a mountain bike up to the Air Itam dam, or go parasailing on Batu Ferringhi beach.

But our favorite nature activity in Penang was climbing Penang Hill, which is easily accessible from Georgetown.

The climb is honestly quite difficult in the heat. But it offers a stunning view from the summit, and the opportunity for excellent wildlife encounters along the way. We spotted a Cobra and lots of Macaques!

READ MORE: 20 Best Festivals In The World for your World Travel Bucket List

Visit Penang National Park

Penang National Park in Malaysia is considered the world’s smallest national park. But don’t judge it for its size, as it’s packed with tropical plants, animals, and geological features.

This park was one of our favorite highlights of our long trip to Malaysia. We felt like intrepid explorers in the tropical forest, with the added bonus of having plenty of opportunities to go Scuba diving and sunbathe.

Penang National Park has two main hiking trails: One trail goes through the jungle to Turtle Beach , while the other goes along the coast to Monkey Beach.

The first trail is 3.4 km, and it will lead you to a beach with a sea turtle nesting reserve. To protect the turtles, you shouldn’t swim here, but the turtle center has some information and a few ambassador turtles to show you.

The other trail is about 3.3 km, and will lead you to the Monkey Beach, where you can swim and relax . On the way there you’ll almost certainly see plenty of monkeys and even monitor lizard s .

That’s one of many reasons why this park is totally worth exploring. -Jorge & Claudia of  Travel Drafts

READ MORE:  57 Simple Sustainable Travel Tips Any Traveler Can Use

Get Spicy at the Tropical Spice Garden

Malaysia’s superb food scene is world famous for its unique blend of spices and chilis. But most visitors have never seen any of these up close, growing in the natural environment.

On a recent trip to Penang, Malaysia with our kids, we spent a half-day exploring the Tropical Spice Garden, which is located about 30 minutes outside of Georgetown.

This lush and large spice garden is just a short ride from the popular beach resorts, but has the feel of a remote forest jungle. It’s a perfect activity for the whole family!

Informative signs direct you to multiple walking paths spanning more than six acres of densely planted gardens , with over 500 spice specimens to learn about along the way.

Malaysia’s “four siblings” spices– cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, and cloves– can all be seen growing in their natural environment.

We saw a surprising number of insects, sleeping bats, reptiles, and butterflies too! The garden offers guided tours with a naturalist or audio tours you can listen to independently, as well as night walks and a cooking school. -Cerise Roth-Vinson of  Enchanted Vagabond

READ MORE: 5 Weird Foods the French Consider Delicacies

THINGS TO DO ON OTHER ISLANDS OF MALAYSIA

Go Island-Hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

There are a lot of gorgeous places to visit in Malaysia, but one that really stuck with me was Tunku Abdul Rehman Park. The park is located off the coast of Borneo, and encompasses five different islands– Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug.

What makes this park so interesting is that it has beautiful waters so crystal clear, it draws tourists from all over the world.

So two of the things that I loved doing the most in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park were snorkeling and Scuba diving. The number of different species of clams and tropical fish that we saw present in the park was amazing.

If you get a chance to visit Gaya island, check out the amazing work that MERC (the Marine Ecology Research Centre) is doing to help restore the coral reef system there.

There are a number of day trips that head out to the different parts of Tunku Abdul Rehman Park. But, to be honest, you could easily spend as many as five days there, discovering a different island each day.

That’s one of many reasons it ranks so high on my list of things visitors should do in Malaysia. -Penny Fernandes Viegas of  Globetrove

READ MORE: 10 Best Places To Scuba Dive For Your World Travel Bucket List

Tour the UNESCO Geopark on Langkawi Island

Langkawi is a Malaysian archipelago packed with history and outstanding natural beauty, making it a must-see for adventurous travelers.

One of the top places to visit in Langkawi is the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, which is part of a complex of 99 islands that are collectively listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is formed by seven protected forests filled with caves, mangroves, and a diverse array of wildlife.

The dynamic limestone landscape here dates back 350 to 490 million years, and it’s fascinating to see these impressive rock formations up close.

The park tours are guided and include a boat ride through the mangrove forest, with stops to visit caves and admire the stalactites that have been formed over millions of years.

If you like bats (which is not my case), you can also see and learn about the three different species of insect-eating bats that are native to the region.

But, for me, the highlight of my Langkawi visit was to see the beautiful flight of the Langkawi Eagle, a majestic bird of prey that lives in the geopark and the symbol of this exotic island. -Natalie Deduck of  Love and Road

READ MORE: 20 Exotic Islands for Your World Travel Bucket List

Beach-hop in the Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands (Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar) are two small islands located off the east coast of Malaysia.

In addition to being home to some of the best beaches  in Malaysia, these islands are also a paradise for those who love underwater activities.

This area is a mecca for avid snorkelers and Scuba divers, since the islands are home to different kinds of sharks  and sea turtles, and the possibility of spotting these marine animals is very high.

Various operators organize snorkeling tours from both main beach areas (Coral Bay and Long Beach). But we often found great snorkeling spots just off the beach.

Note that both islands are part of a protected marine park, and you will have to pay a nominal conservation fee on arrival.

We quite enjoyed the local vibe of the islands, where there are no international hotel chains around. Perhentian is easily accessible by boat from Kuala Besut on the mainland.

But do consider the fact that the waters are very rough during Malaysia’s monsoon season (which lasts from October to March), so the islands are practically closed for visitors then . -Gábor Kovács of  Surfing the Planet

READ MORE: The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

 Dive Pulau Sipadan

Malaysia has many excellent Scuba diving sites, many of which rival those of nearby hotspots such as Indonesia and the Philippines .

Arguably the best of the bunch is Pulau Sipadan, a tiny island off the coast of Sabah that’s easily accessible from the larger island of Semporna.

Pulau Sipadan is famous for its steep walls and rich coral life, where sightings of Sea Turtles and Reef Sharks are almost guaranteed.

Be forewarned: The number of daily diving permits in this area is strictly limited. So you’ll need to plan ahead and make reservations with a responsible Scuba diving operator in advance.

READ MORE: Top 10 Things to do in Coron, Palawan

Get Wild on Tioman Island

Tioman is a tropical island just off the southeast coast of peninsular Malaysia, and it’s one of the most beautiful and laid-back places I’ve ever visited .

The island is not very big, around 20 km long and 10 km wide, but it’s a wonderful place both above the water as well as below.

Much of Tioman Island is part of the Pulau Tioman Wildlife Reserve, so you can find many different kinds of monkeys there. Don’t be surprised if you spot a big lizard lurking in the river!

The ocean surrounding the island is a marine reserve, with beautiful coral and lots of dive sites where you can spot moray eels, sting rays, and sea turtles.

You can reach Tioman island via a daily jetty from Mersing, which costs 35RM each way. Departure times are dependent on the tide, and therefore vary slightly each day.

There are several small villages on the island where you can find basic accommodation and a couple of restaurants. It’s not fancy: The simple bamboo bungalows usually have just a bed, fan, cold-water shower, and not much else.

The island can get crowded during weekends with visitors from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. So it’s best to visit during the week if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. – Lotte Eschbach of  Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

  READ MORE: How to choose a Responsible Scuba Diving Operator

See Sea Turtles in Turtle Island National Park

Off the coast of Malaysian Borneo in the Sulu Sea sits a small island participating in a big conservation effort. It’s home to one of the world’s oldest sea turtle hatcheries, and a small group of rangers and researchers live there in order to oversee the process.

Endangered green and hawksbill turtles have routinely come to this island to lay eggs, so the program monitors the turtles and transplants the eggs to the hatchery for protection.

What do they need protection from, you may ask? Poachers, monitor lizards, birds. and poor weather conditions can all threaten the  baby turtles’ survival.

Their chances of reaching the ocean increase substantially if they can self-incubate at the hatchery and then be released into the wild.

There are a limited number of guests allowed for overnight stays on the island, and there are many rules to follow in order to ensure the safety of the turtles.

But if you have the opportunity, it’s a totally unique experience to be in the dark on a remote Malaysian island, watching nature in an ethical and responsible way! -Abbie Synan of Speck on the  Speck on the Globe  

  READ MORE: Sea Turtle Conservation

Get Real on Pulau Tiga (a.k.a. Survivor Island)

Located just 10 kilometers off the island of Borneo, you’ll find a secluded, almost untouched island whose biggest claim to fame is being the first-ever location for the hit reality TV show, Survivor .

If you’ve never seen the show, just imagine white sand beaches, vivid turquoise waters, and lush forests where the only inhabitants are wild animals.

With only two resorts on Pulau Tiga and no permanent residents on the island, you can come close to experiencing what it would have been like to be one of the show’s very first contestants.

Arrival to the island is by speed boat from Kuala Penyu, which is approximately two hours from Kota Kinabalu. Once you’re on the island, there are several beautiful beaches and hiking trails to explore.

One of the big draws to the island these days is the opportunity to soak in a mud volcano . This bubbling mud pit is said to have therapeutic properties, but mostly it’s just downright fun to roll around in the mud like a buffalo!

While on the island, you can also enjoy swinging on the beach, jungle hiking, snorkeling, and spotting the island’s wild animals.

Keep your eyes peeled for bats, macaques, monitor lizards, and more! Just watch out for the macaques, as they will literally steal the food right off your plate! -Karilyn Owen  of No Back Home

READ MORE: What is an Eco Lodge? (The Top 10 Eco Lodges in the World)

Where to Stay in Malaysia

There are many other adventurous things to do in Malaysia for nature lovers . There are also a lot of great hotels and eco lodges in the country.

We started out at Sukau Rainforest Lodge ,  an award-winning eco-lodge in the Sabah rainforest. There we saw pygmy elephants , wild orangutans and proboscis monkeys. Sukau is committed to sustainability, with hot water supplied by solar heaters, lamps using cooking oil , and electric boats used for river cruises to minimize wildlife disturbance.

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22 Best Natural Attractions in Malaysia in 2024

Beaches, mountains, waterfalls, wildlife & hiking trails.

Malaysia is perhaps best known for its congested capital city, Kuala Lumpur, with its iconic twin towers, or maybe for its flourishing multiculturalism, with Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures living together harmoniously. Let's not forget the nation's epic street-food scene with ridiculously cheap, flavor-packed cuisine flowing out of unsuspecting hawker stalls.

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Southeast Asia's diverse natural wonders, epitomized by enthralling sunsets, jungle-lined hiking trails, and tropical beaches, you may easily overlook Malaysia in favor of its less-modernized neighbors like Indonesia's Bali, or Thailand's Phi Phi Islands. Our hand-picked list of the best natural attractions in Malaysia proves when it comes to raw beauty, this country is a strong contender.

In the east, Borneo is one of the few locations endangered orangutans can still be seen in their natural habitat. Moving west, Peninsular Malaysia is dotted with gushing waterfalls, mountains begging to be climbed, and rainforests hiding cheeky monkeys and colorful birdlife. Both halves are bordered by idyllic tropical islands perfect for relaxing on a sandy beach or snorkeling among colorful fish.

Let's dive in.

East Malaysia (Malaysian Borneo)

East Malaysia is located on a large island shared between Malaysia and Indonesia. The Indonesian half is known as Kalimantan while Malaysia's portion is called Borneo . Borneo is divided into 2 states, Saba and Sarawak, which, unlike Peninsular Malaysia, only have a handful of urban cities with most locals residing in traditional rural villages. Both states boast bountiful wildlife thanks to Borneo's unequaled biodiversity. Species include the proboscis monkey, Bornean orangutan, Bornean pygmy elephant, and the Mueller's gibbon. Less-common animals include the eastern Sumatran rhinoceros, clouded leopard, sun bear, marbled cat, hornbill, and the slow loris.

Bako National Park

Kuching Division, Sarawak, Malaysia

Price: RM10 (USD$2.11) Time spent: 6 hours

Hours: 8am-5pm, 7 days

Bako National Park is the oldest national park in Sarawak, established in 1957. It is home to a variety of wildlife including the famous Proboscis monkey and the Bornean bearded pig.

Tip: Bring comfortable footwear and plenty of water for hiking along the park's many nature trails.

website email +60 82370434

Matang Wildlife Centre

Kampung Rayu, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM20 (USD$4.22) , Children (7-18 yrs): RM7 ($1.48) , Children (0-6 yrs): Free, Malaysian Citizens: Adult: RM10 ($2.11) , Children (7-18 yrs): RM3 ($0.63) , Children (0-6 yrs): Free Time spent: 3-6 hours

Located only 20km from Sarawak capital, Kuching, Kubah National Park is ideal for jungle trekking. Overnight accommodation and cooking facilities are located onsite.

Tip: The longest trails include the Summit trail and the Rayu trail. Each takes roughly 3 hours 30 minutes to trek one way. Fee includes Matang Wildlife Centre and permit for Kubah National Park

website +60 82374869

Kubah National Park

93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Tip: The longest trails include the Summit trail and the Rayu trail. Each takes roughly 3 hours 30 minutes to trek one way. Fee includes Matang Cildlife Centre and permit for Kubah National Park.

website +60 1165729232

Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

KM 20, Borneo Highland Road, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM10 (USD$2.11) , Senior Citizen: RM10 ($2.11) , Disabled Person: RM5 ($1.05) , Children: (6-7 yrs): RM5 ($1.05) , Children (0-5 yrs): Free, Malaysian Citizens Adult: RM5 ($1.05) , Senior Citizen: RM3 ($0.63) , Disabled Person: RM3 ($0.63) , Children (6-7 yrs): RM2 ($0.42) , Children (0-5 yrs): Free Time spent: 1-1.5 hours

Hours: 8am-10am, 2pm-4pm, 7 days

Semenggoh Wildlife Center works to rehabilitate orangutans that have previously been kept as illegal pets. The orangutans are released into the wild once they can fend for themselves but, since some orangutans struggle to find food outside of fruiting season, the center hosts feeding sessions twice a day, at 9am and 3pm.

Tip: The orangutans are known to be semi-wild, as they often come back to the feeding area. However, it is still important to keep your distance and respect their space.

website email +60 82618325

Gunung Mulu National Park

Sarawak, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM30 (USD$6.33) , Children (6-18 yrs): RM10 ($2.11) , Children (0-5): Free, Malaysian Citizens Adult: RM15 ($3.16) , Senior Citizen (60+ yrs): RM7 ($1.48) , Children (6-18 yrs): RM5 ($1.05) , Children (0-5): Free Time spent: 2-7 hours

UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Gunung Mulu National Park has a unique landscape with over 295km of caves to explore. The park is best known for a cluster of 45-meter high razor-sharp rock pinnacles.

Tip: To visit the caves, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide

website +60 85792600

Gunung Gading National Park

94500 Lundu, Sarawak, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM20 (USD$4.22) , Children (7-18 yrs): RM7 ($1.48) , Children (0-6 yrs): Free, Malaysian Citizen Adult: RM10 ($2.11) , Children (7-18 yrs): RM3 ($0.63) , Children (0-6 yrs): Free Time spent: 2-6 hours

Home to the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, Gunung Gading National Park has plenty of hiking trails and waterfalls to explore, with some trails requiring up to 6 hours.

Tip: The Rafflesia flower only blooms for 3-5 days and is one of the rarest flowers in the world. Visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide.

website +60 82735144

Kinabatangan River - Sukau

Sukau, Kinabatangan, Sabah, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 2-8 hours

The second-longest river in Malaysia is one of the best places to find the Borneon orangutan. It is part of the Sukau-Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and is a popular destination for animal lovers.

Tip: River cruises on the Kinabatangan River are the best way to spot rare wildlife. Book at least 2 river cruises to increase your chances of spotting the elusive orangutan.

Kinabalu National Park

Kinabalu Park, 89300 Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM15 (USD$3.16) , Children: RM10 ($2.11) , Malaysian Citizen Adult: RM3 ($0.63) , Children: RM1 ($0.21) Time spent: 3-7 hours

Hours: 7am-5pm, 7 days

A UNESCO World Heritage listed site, known as one of the most biologically diverse areas in Asia. It features several hiking trails around Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia's highest mountains.

Tip: Permits to climb Mount Kinabalu sell out months in advance so plan ahead and book early.

website email +60 174502009

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Sabah Wildlife Department, W.D.T. 200, Sandakan, Jalan Sepilok, Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM30 (USD$6.33) , Children: RM15 ($3.16) , Malaysian Citizen Adult: RM5 ($1.05) Time spent: 1-3 hours

Hours: 9am-12pm, 2pm-4pm (Fridays 9am-11pm, 2pm-4pm)

Founded in 1964, the center works to release injured and orphaned orangutans back into the wild. It is located within the Kabili-Sepilok forest reserve, where most of the orangutans are released.

Tip: Orangutan feeding times are held twice daily at 10am and 3pm.

website +60 89633587

Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC)

Sepilok, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM30 (USD$6.33) , Children (12-17 yrs): RM15 ($3.16) , Children (0-11): Free, Malaysian Citizen: Adult: RM5 ($1.05) , Children (12-17 yrs): RM2 ($0.42) , Children (0-11): Free Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hours: 9am-3:30pm, 7 days

The only conservation center for sun bears in the world, The BSBCC was founded in 2008 and has rescued over 60 sun bears. The center aims to rescue and rehabilitate sun bears to eventually release back into the wild.

Tip: The BSBCC is located right next to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, so you can sometimes see orangutans walking along the pathways here too.

website email +60 89534491

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia

Price: RM50 (USD$10.54) Time spent: 1-2 days

Home to an amazing array of wildlife including the Bornean orangutan, clouded leopard, Bornean pygmy elephants, gibbons and hornbills. Visitors stay at the Danum Valley Field Centre, with accommodation options ranging from dormitories to chalets. Organized activities include jungle trekking, night drives and night nature walks.

Tip: The Field Centre offers sunrise tours to the Global Atmosphere Watch Station (GAW tower), located on Antur Hill, to watch a magnificent sunrise over the jungle.

website +60 88326320

Sipadan Island

Sabah, Malaysia

Price: RM140 (USD$29.52) Time spent: 7-14 hours

Hours: 8am-3pm

One of the top 5 diving sites in the world, the waters around Sipidan Island are home to over 3,000 species of fish as well as green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and even hammerhead sharks. There are over 8 different dive spots on the island.

Tip: Securing a diving permit can be difficult. To increase your chances, book as early as possible, and avoid peak season.

website email +60 88257669

Peninsular Malaysia

Separated from East Malaysia by the South China Sea, Peninsular Malaysia is home to the majority of the population, with over 7.7 million people residing in and around capital Kuala Lumpur. Despite the towering skyscrapers and endless urban sprawl, Malaysia's native jungle and wildlife are never far away.

Mainland Malaysia flaunts a similar landscape to its eastern counterpart, dominated by mountain ranges, rainforests and marine parks. One of the most prominent areas is the 'Main Range' mountains. Although no match for Borneo's biodiversity, Peninsular Malaysia's wildlife, including the Malayan tapir, sun bears, gibbons, Sumatran rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, and monkeys galore, will not disappoint.

Taman Negara

27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia

Price: Adult (13-60 yrs): RM30 (USD$6.33) , Senior Citizen (60+ yrs): RM15 ($3.16) , Children (0-12 yrs): RM10 ($2.11) Time spent: 2-4 days

Hours: 9am-5:30pm, 7 days

Believed to be the oldest tropical rainforest in the world at over 130 million years old. It is one of the most popular natural attractions in Malaysia and is accessible from Kuala Tahan by boat. Macaque monkeys, wild boar, tapirs, elephants, tigers, and sun bears are just a few of the animals that can be spotted here if you trek through the jungle long enough.

Tip: To see rarer animals like elephants, you will need to trek for at least a couple of days.

website email +60 390752872

Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh)

Mukim, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 1.5-4 hours

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days

Named after the 7 pools that formed at the top of the waterfall. After climbing the 638 steps, you get to relax and cool off in the shallow rock pools. Make sure you pay a visit to both the bottom and the top of the waterfall to see the Seven Wells Waterfall from both viewpoints.

Parking: Car: RM2 (USD$0.42) , Motorbike: RM1 ($0.21)

Tip: Due to its popularity, the it can get busy quite so it is best to visit early.

Full attraction details... Watch video

The Cameron Highlands Walking Trails

Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 2-3 days

A district located in Pahang with plenty of walking trails. From Tanah Rata , there are several trails you can take including the hike to Mount Brinchang and the Mossy Forest .

Tip: Always tell somebody which trail you are trekking and how long you expect to be gone.

68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 1.5-3 hours

Hours: 6am-9pm, 7 days

A limestone hill dotted by a series of caves. Here you can also find the famous glistening Lord Murugan statue which stands at 140ft tall. It is one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India and is located near Kuala Lumpur. You will also find a brightly colored staircase leading up the primary cave complex.

Parking: Car: RM2 (USD$0.42) , Bus & Van: RM10 ($2.11)

Tip: Visit around 8am to avoid crowds.

website email

Penang National Park

Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang, jalan Hassan Abbas, 11050 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 4-8 hours

Located near Batu Ferringhi and known for wildlife, beaches and hiking trails. Visitors can see eagles, monitor lizards and macaque monkeys to name a few native species. Beaches to visit include Pantai Keracut, Monkey Beach and Teluk Kampi beach.

Parking: RM3 (USD$0.63)

Tip: Check for jellyfish before swimming in the ocean.

website +60 48813500

Pantai Cenang (Chenang Beach)

Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 1-3 hours

Arguably the most popular beach in Langkawi, with fine white sands stretching 2km. There are many places to relax on Pantai Cenang including the several beach bars. Water sports are also popular here with kayaking, jet skiing and banana boats available.

Tip: Head to the northern side of Pantai Cenang as it is a lot quieter and more relaxing.

Tanjung Rhu Beach

Ayer Hangat, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia

Found in the north of Langkawi, Tanjung Rhu is quieter than most other beaches ono the island. This beach is a slice of tropical paradise with white sands, swaying trees, clear water, and jungle surroundings.

Tip: Hire a scooter for the day for easy access to Tanjung Rhu and the surrounding area.

Rawa Island

Rawa Island, Johor, Malaysia

Price: Johor National Park fee: Adult: RM20 (USD$4.22) , Child: RM10 ($2.11) , Malaysian Citizen Adult: RM5 ($1.05) , Childen: RM3 ($0.63) Time spent: 1-3 days

Hours: 9:30am-5:30pm, 7 days

This small tropical island off the coast of Malaysia is famous for its coral reefs. Rawa Island features 2 luxury resorts and an abundance of wildlife in the surrounding ocean including blacktip reef sharks, octopus, squid, jellyfish and tropical fish varieties.

Tip: For visitors not staying overnight, catch the earliest ferry to spend a full day on the island.

+60 77991204

Tioman Island

Pulau Tioman, Mersing, Pahang, Malaysia

Price: Adult: RM30 (USD$6.33) , Children: RM15 ($3.16) Time spent: 1-2 days

Known as one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia, Tioman Island is a marine park located 32 miles off the mainland with has an abundance of marine life. The island is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tip: The ferry schedule to the island can be affected by weather and tide so check before you book, and keep some flexibility in your schedule.

Perhentian Islands

Perhentian Islands, Terengganu, Malaysia

Price: Free Time spent: 1-3 days

A series of tropical islands in the Besut District of northeast Malaysia. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, which provide opportunities to snorkel and see turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and tropical fish like clownfish. The islands' beaches feature soft white sands, leaning palm trees, and extremely clear water.

Tip: Avoid the monsoon season in November. July, August and September are the best months to visit.

• Best Waterfalls in Langkawi Langkawi Down Langkawi's ancient mountains flow a series of natural waterfalls, secluded in the jungle with cooling rock pools for swimmers to relax under the shady canopy. Seven Wells and Temurun waterfalls run down the island's second-tallest mountain, Gunung Machinchang. A 3rd waterfall, Durian Perangin is located on the northern slope of Gunung Raya, the tallest peak. The mountains' differing rock formations provide contrasting landscapes surrounding the falls, meaning each is completely unique.

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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’s no better way to discover this great city.

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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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18 Breathtaking Places to Visit in Malaysia

You name it, Malaysia’s probably got it – beaches to lounge on, rain forests to trek and sweat through, exotic wildlife to seek out, unbeatable cuisine, deep-seated traditions, and rich cultural history. From my many visits to this interesting country, here are my favorite places…

1. Langkawi

I loved this stunning archipelago known as Langkawi. It is situated in Kedah, on the West Coast of Malaysia, and the northernmost archipelago.

This duty-free haven is Malaysia’s northernmost archipelago, 30km off the mainland, and easily accessible by ferry and air from Thailand or the mainland. Honeymooners and backpackers are all catered for as swathes of magazine-perfect beaches invite lazy cocktail-sipping afternoons.

For the more adventurous, I recommend testing your vertigo at one of Langkawi’s main attractions: the 1,700-metre cable car or SkyCab ascending Machinchang Mountain.

You can return to the first station or continue to the loftier second station. From there, you can stroll across the SkyBridge, head up to elevated viewing platforms, or watch the clouds roll in and over the slopes at fantastic speed.

The SkyBridge was closed during our visit (November 2013), so it’s best to check access beforehand. If you’re feeling peckish, ask the locals to tell you the following location of the roaming night market.

Some famous beaches include Black Sand Beach, Pantai Tengah, Datai Bay, Pantai Cenang, and many more. The archipelago is very easily accessible, either by ferry or by air.

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2. Pulau Tioman

Since the 1970s, Pulau Tioman has been one of the most beautiful islands to visit, and it has retained its beauty until now. It is located just off the east coast in the South China Sea, and I personally think this place is a real gem!

It has some stunning beaches, a rich and dense rainforest, and an expanse of wildlife. I highly recommend scuba diving, snorkeling, strolling through the jungle, and touring the island on motorbikes.

The islands also have some gorgeous waterfalls, which I highly recommend visiting.

3. George Town

I loved Penang! It lies in the Northwest of the country, and it’s both easy on the eye and interesting! The state is named after the pinang tree, and it is home to the fascinating town of Georgetown. 

The town is rich in culture and art, evident as you stroll through the streets and see the street art that lines the paths and the old colonial buildings.

It also has a beautiful history, with temples like Kek Lok Si displaying the country’s rich cultural history. The state is known for its beaches and resorts, such as  Batu Ferringhi and Shangri-la. 

4. Pulau Pinang

Many consider this charming and well-developed island the food capital of the country. It is part of the broader state of Penang and has become a multiracial melting pot of diverse cultures, religions, and ethnicities, thanks mainly to its prominent position within historic trading routes.

Georgetown’s central neighborhood is a delightful UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts numerous murals, which make up a fascinating street art scene fronted by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.

It won’t be long before you’re drifting lost amongst the narrow pastel streets, having your nostrils tugged and tempted by fried Nasi Kandar, and your eyes pop at the colorful sight of Ais Kacang.

The culinary theme continues at the Tropical Spice Garden on the island’s northern edge. During this lush and refreshing retreat, you can dine in the treetops alongside Silver Leaf monkeys swinging amongst the branches.

A short bus ride further down the road, I highly recommend visiting the Butterfly Farm, which has a series of masterful, must-see short animated educational films.

Across the island, several spots are full of beautiful murals and artworks, and its position as a historic trading route makes it a trendy place for people of different backgrounds to settle and enjoy.

The food here is one of the most beautiful parts of the trip, and it won’t be long before you’re lost in a sea of tempting dishes.

5. The Petronas Towers

Amongst the hustle and bustle of the chaotic capital, beauty presents itself in an unexpected form.

If you hang around the base of the Petronas Towers between sunset and moonrise, the world’s tallest twin buildings undergo a magical transformation as day turns to night and the office lights, lift shafts, and aircraft warning lights illuminate the 88 stories in a halogen-fuelled twilight haze.

6. Pangkor Island

This is a beautiful island that lies on the West Coast. It consists of a small archipelago in the Strait of Malacca, and it is known for some of its beaches, like Pasir Bogak, Coral Bay, and Emerald Bay. 

It is nothing short of a tropical paradise.

Depending on your interests, you can go snorkeling or even hiking. There are also some great jungle trails for those who want to spend time in nature.

7. Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Sabah. Although it might look like a typical city at first glance, with its lines of malls and buildings, you will encounter magnificent stretches of orange-sand coastline and islands when you venture deeper into the city. 

One of the most popular attractions is the floating mosque, but there are several other places to visit, like Tanj and Ung Aru Beach. In my opinion, it has one of the most beautiful sunsets. You could also stroll along Likas Bay and enjoy the day playing in the sand or the water. 

The five islands here are collectively known as Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a favored spot for snorkeling and relaxing by foreigners and locals alike. Just a few miles from the city, there is also a great jungle.

Malacca City is an excellent choice if you are looking for a richly endowed with history and culture.

For hundreds of years, Malacca was one of the most strategically significant towns on the Malay Peninsular. Its ownership changed hands between the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, amongst others, as they fought for control of this key trading post.

Fast forward to modern-day Malacca, and you get the impression the place hasn’t changed much.

Many streets are one-way, winding, and cramped, while the rickety buildings are poky and ooze historical character. Like Penang, Malacca is one of the country’s smallest states and proudly possesses UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

If you visit Malacca city, I recommend visiting the famous Jonker Street Night Market, A Famosa Fort, and St. Paul’s Church. 

9. Cameron Highlands

Visitors are attracted to this enchanting region of Pehang to experience the novelty and the respite of a cooler tropical highland climate where temperatures are often in the low 20s.

The rolling hills are populated by tea plantations and flower nurseries, making the area the leading producer of tea and flowers in Malaysia.

It’s wise to check the weather in the monsoon season (November – February) and call ahead or ask your transport operator before traveling, as the heavy rainfall can lead to landslides, which have an inconvenient tendency to block many roads.

10. Pulau Pangkor

A tiny island off the Malay Peninsular with broad, sweeping beaches that match Langkawi, it is only accessible by ferry from the connecting town of Lumut.

Lumut is approximately three hours north of Kuala Lumpur by road, and for those wishing to stick to the tracks, Ipoh (85km away) will sate your train station needs.

11. Pulau Redang

This picturesque group of islands is a stunning sight. Located along the east coast, they rise from the South China Sea.

Redang sits within protected waters, known as the Terengganu Marine Park, and preserves the crystal clear waters and reef systems, creating a flourishing scuba-tourism industry.

With crystal clear waters, the islands sit within protected waters (the Terengganu Marine Park), so their beauty is maintained at a premium. It has recently become an excellent spot for scuba diving and tourist activities.

The waters are usually too rough for boats to move on during those times, so I suggest researching the best time to visit.  As with some central locations such as Cameron Highlands and much of the East Coast, the monsoons dictate when and when not to go.

Between November and February, the waters are often too rough for boats to transport eager sun-seekers to the island; many resorts take a holiday, so it’s always best to phone ahead for availability or plan your travels away from the low season.

12. Sabah, Borneo

Malaysia seems to be a never-ending source of reverential snorkel and scuba sites, and Sabah doesn’t buck any trends. If you’re interested in latitudes, Sabah ranks as the country’s northernmost state, and people flock to Sabah to enjoy the seas. I had a huge soft spot for this place! 

Sabah is superbly beautiful, with long, comprehensive, and sandy beaches. It also has many exotic onshore and offshore species, including civet cats, snakes, clouded leopards, and pygmy elephants.

These are among the 222 mammals (44 endemics), 420 birds (37 endemics), 100 amphibians, and 394 fish (19 endemics) found! 

13. Gunung Mulu

What looks like a stone’s throw away from Brunei on the map, Gunung Mulu represents yet another of this country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

It’s a well-documented, visited, and filmed world, as done by the BBC’s Planet Earth team, but with eye-catching, otherworldly features such as the Pinnacles at Mount Api, it’s easy to see why. Gunung Mulu National Park is the largest of Sarawak’s parks. 

14. Ipoh, Perak

Ipoh, the capital of Perak, is nothing short of magnificent. Nicknamed rightly ‘The City of Bougainvillea,’ it has a vintage beauty style. 

It is surrounded by rocky limestone hills that add to the city’s complete visual aesthetic centered around its colonial history. The city comprises several Hindu and Buddhist cave temples, and it is quickly becoming one of the top tourist destinations in the world! 

It is unimaginable that Ipoh was a sleepy Malay village just a few years ago. Now, it is drawing attention and popularity worldwide, with people wanting to enjoy some of its many beautiful spots. 

Like the Ipoh Heritage Walk, which is only 6.5 kilometers long, it is lined with majestic architecture that still harbors a beauty and magnificence that almost sums up the entire Ipoh experience. 

Some other great places to visit in Ipoh are Kellie’s castle, which is not for the faint of heart, as there have been several supernatural reports and sightings within this cave, and the Tambun cave, which you would certainly enjoy seeing some of the Neolithic paintings, and the Geological Museum, which is full of all sorts of beautiful and exciting stories and exhibits. 

15. The Perhentians

Located in the South China Sea, t his is a small archipelago off the coast of Terengganu, known as the “Perhentians.” The main islands of the Perhentians are Besar and Kecil (Big and Small), two beautiful coral-covered islands of white sand and crystal-clear shallow water. 

You can take up several activities at the Perhentians, like snorkeling, scuba diving, and canoeing. You would have a delightful relaxing day and gaze at the beautiful water as it laps against the shore.

16. Danum Valley

Danum Valley in Sabah is the best place to visit for a fantastic jungle experience. The conservation area is located deep inside the 130 million-year-old lowland forest. 

It has a good diversity of plants and animals scattered over 438 square kilometers. When you visit the Danum Valley, you might see orangutans, leopards, or even pygmy elephants. 

The area is purely wildlife and plant life as there is a lack of human settlement , making the experience and environment even purer. The forest is lush, and you can partake in jungle treks with an experienced guide or even go for a night safari.

17. Alor Setar

Visiting Langkawi is usually the most popular activity for those who visit Kedah. But in my opinion, they are missing out on an unexplored city called Alor Setar. 

The city stands just a couple of kilometers to the southeast of Langkawi, and it features some significant buildings like the Royal Hall, the Big Clock Building, the Zahir Mosque, and the Sultan Museum. 

You can also visit the imposing 250 million-year-old Gunung Keriang limestone hill. There are also some historic 17th-century ruins you can see at Kuala Kedah.

18. Pulau Sipadan

The island of Pulau Sipadan is located in the state of Sabah and is one of the top diving destinations in the world.

The island stands about 600 meters above the ocean floor and is home to various marine life, including  devil rays, hammerhead sharks, dogtooth tuna, and barracudas.

It is a great place for marine enthusiasts and divers because there is so much beauty in and around the water. However, restrictions have been implemented to sustain the balance in the ecosystem, so you will only be allowed day visits.

But if you want to stay overnight, I suggest arranging a place on nearby islands like Mabul, Mataking, or Kapalai .

Location of Malaysia

Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia with the famous countries of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia, Singapore and The Philippines.  

Michael Cowley - writer and photographer Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always had an affinity for adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued seeking out new places and cultures. In his spare time he explores everywhere from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, trying all kinds of street food, playing carrom with random strangers, and fine wine - he knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Goa, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations. Find Michael on Instagram or Twitter . Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Discover Greece, Barcelo Hotels, and Rickshaw Travel. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

25 thoughts on “18 Breathtaking Places to Visit in Malaysia”

As an alternative to the cable car I would recommend going to Mount Raya instead. There is a better view of the island since it’s not a tourist pit and it’s pretty easy to hitch a ride from locals if you just start walking down the road. Langkawi as a whole is a beautiful island. I did a lot of hitchhiking and camping there and was able to camp on a lot of the beaches. I really enjoyed the beach near the Westin Resort, but Black Sand Beach was also very peaceful. Cenang was very beautiful, but there were too many tourists. Find the locals and ask them for the secluded spots. Langkawi can be a cheap and beautiful experience.

Hi, This is Rashid from Bangladesh. I would like to visit Malaysia on next January-15. So you are kindly be requested to provide me the road plan of “Pulau Redang” “Pulau Pinang” and “Pulau Pangkor”.

How can I visit above places from Kuala Lumpur???

YOU MISSED out…Pulau Perhentian Kecil! This breathtaking island off the coast of Kuala Besut is entirely understated, even when calling it a paradise. It is a fair distance from Kuala Lumpur but good things come to those who wait, great things come to those who grab the bull by the horns and travel the distance.

Malaysia has so many wonderful places! I hope to travel there one day in the near future. Each of those photographs looked like stunning places to travel to.

thanks…i was proud to be Malaysian…i hope you can come and enjoy the scenery of Malaysia! But of course yr country is great too..you also can learn to speak in malay…Apa khabar?terima kasih..n other

Brilliant article about Malaysia- I recently visited Sabah and was amazed at the beauty of both the rainforests and beaches 🙂

Wow what a beautiful looking country, I haven’t been but it looks like I’m missing out!

I’ve been to Penang and really loved it, Malaysia is really underrated!

i was literally just drooling over someone’s langkawi photos on my newsfeed, and now the rest of these are making my wanderlust even worse! take us there now!

Love the list! Had our honeymoon in Langkawi and one of our weddings in Cameron Highlands. I really love how lush and green Malaysia is!

WOW! i need more time in Asia and definitely need to hit up Malaysia. BEAUTIFUL!!

These all sound amazing! I’ll keep this in mind as I plan my trip.

Thanks for the list of these gorgeous locations. Another FABULOUS place in Malaysia is Chiling Falls … such an amazing way to spend a day!

I loved visiting Malaysia in January. I can attest to its beauty, but these photos are amazing. It’s a great reminder that I need to go back.

Seems like there’s a lot of variety in Malaysia! Want to visit all of these places, but the Gunung Mulu looks most spectacular.

So true Catherine, such a special county.

PS – I included this post in my latest travel blog round up 🙂

Wow, this looks absolutely stunning. And so diverse too!! I may need to go and see for myself 😉

I urge you to do it! 🙂

Malaysia has so many beautiful places to offer for off the beaten path travelers! I really hope to make it there soon and I would definitely see cameron highlands. This picture reminds me a lot of Longxi Rice Terraces nearby Guilin in China :).

Hope you get there soon Agness.

Absolutely loved Malaysia when I went last month, we went to Pinang and Cameron Highlands and they are absolutely gorgeous, would love to go back!

Glad you loved Pinang, its kinda hard not to!

What stunning photos, and yes, I think Malaysia has it all. We’ve been there twice, and still have hardly scratched the surface. I think it would take a long time to really see it all!

So much to see, I agree!

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15 of the best things to do in Malaysia

Jan 22, 2024 • 11 min read

Experience the best of Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Can't decide between visiting dive sites and tropical beaches, hiking through mountains  or exploring swish city centers? Deliberate no more – Malaysia has you covered with its amazing array of things to do. 

This Southeast Asian nation has an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultures and cuisines. In the cities, minarets, mandirs and Chinese temples share the skyline with space-age high-rises. Beyond the urban bustle are rainforests, mountains and radiant beaches .

From Peninsular Malaysia to the island of Borneo , traditional arts, crafts and recipes endure – even as cities hurtle towards the latest architectural and gastronomic trends. Here are Malaysia's unmissable experiences.

1. Sip tea at the source in the Cameron Highlands

Once upon a time, Malaysia's sweaty British colonialists fled to higher ground, founding hill stations where they could retreat from the heat and jump-start a tea industry. The most famous are in the Cameron Highlands , and today it's mostly tourists (local and foreign) who come to seek respite from Malaysia's muggy lowlands.

These 1300m to 1829m heights (4265ft to 6000ft) offer plenty of hikes , as well as strawberry plantations and souvenir stalls where you can burn a few ringgit. But the quintessential Cameron experience is sipping a bronze-hued cuppa while looking out at the rippling carpet of tea plantations. 

Planning tip:  Boh Sungei Palas not only has emerald hillsides to gaze upon, it also has the most informative displays on tea-making. Alternatively, there's a splendid tea house overlooking the estate at Cameron Valley Tea House  and a further-flung option at  Boh Tea Garden , which offers guided tours. You're sure to find an experience that suits you (...to a T).

2. Climb up into the magical Batu Caves

Sheer limestone cliffs rise above you. Ahead stretches a staircase of 272 steps. And looking you smack in the eye is an imperious gilded statue, the Hindu god Lord Murugan.

Newcomers to Malaysia won't soon forget their first heady ascent to Batu Caves , nor the cheeky macaques that beset them on all sides. But this popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur (just 13km/8 miles, and easily done by train) also draws repeat visitors galore. Tourists, pilgrims and locals all clamor to experience this natural wonder and spiritual spectacle. 

This complex of limestone caverns has entrancing temples, each with dioramas showing mythical scenes. The central Temple Cave has been a Hindu shrine since 1890. After touring inside its two yawning chambers, take a side quest across a short bridge to the quieter Ramayana Cave , where dioramas illustrate the eponymous Sanskrit epic poem of duty and virtue.

Planning tip:  If the regular crowds don't daunt you, time your visit for the Thaipusam festival (late January or early February) when crowds of devotees descend upon the caves, some partaking in ritual piercings – it's an immersive and unforgettable event.

3. Eat at the best food markets in George Town, Penang

The capital of Penang island is awash in street art, festooned with British Raj–era buildings, and crammed with boutiques selling arts and crafts. But before hitting these George Town attractions, heed your grumbling stomach… The best things to do in Penang revolve around eating and drinking – and state capital George Town has the biggest banquet.

In a city rife with food markets, elegant cafes, and everything in between, the only dilemma is where to begin. Our dream menu features chicken curry at venerable Indian spot Hameediyah , slurping Hokkien mee (noodles) at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and following our nose to grilled satay skewers and spicy-sweet rojak salad at Anjung Gurney Night Market . Other must-try dishes are spicy, fishy Penang laksa, and char kway teow , rice noodles sizzled with huge prawns (some of the best are served at Kafe Heng Huat ).

Planning tip:  You'll want to save room for dessert (or two!). Gateaux are worth lingering over at China House , while glistening displays of kuih nyonya (colorful rice and coconut cakes) beg to be snapped up from the markets.

4. Snorkel or dive in the pristine Perhentian Islands

Culture, check. Food, check. Malaysia is also one of Asia's best honeymoon destinations, especially the Perhentian Islands , where gin-clear waters lap golden sand. 

But don't doze off in your sun lounger just yet. Pulau Perhentian is even more magical beneath the water. Snorkelers can spy on coral reefs within reach of the beach (try Teluk Pauh and Shark Point, both on the big island). Better yet, wriggle into a wetsuit and dive among green sea turtles, barracuda and colorful reef-dwellers like yellow boxfish. 

The Perhentians are a wonderfully calm (and comparatively cheap) place to take a PADI course before testing your skills among the local nurse sharks (they're harmless). More experienced divers can join excursions down to the MV Union Star . This sunken freighter is known as the "Sugar Wreck" for the cargo it transported before meeting its rusty end; today, the wreck swirls with stingrays and scorpionfish.

5. Scale the sublime summit of Mt Kinabalu

The highest mountain on Borneo, Gunung Kinabalu is Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Viewed from below, this cloud-spearing summit (4095m/13435ft) inspires awe: an outlying peak that rises far higher than its neighbors in the Crocker mountain range. But experienced from the summit, Mt Kinabalu is even more heavenly. 

Your penance for this heavenly vantage point? A thigh-burning ascent, some 8.7km (5.4 miles) each way. But every phase of the journey (split across two days) opens up a new natural wonder. The rough steps and stony pathways propel you ever higher above the treeline, past lunar rockfaces, high-alpine grasslands, and tangled carpets of ferns, rhododendrons and bamboo. At Panalaban (3272m/10,735ft), you'll bed down in a hostel for the night… or at least for a few fitful hours because you'll be out of bed early to reach the spiky granite summit at sunrise. 

Planning tip:  March to August is dry season for climbing. Limited permits to climb are issued each day, and you have to climb with a guide.

6. Ride a trishaw around historic Melaka

Trishaws: bone-rattling, traffic-dodging, three-wheeled form of transport. To some, they're a joyride; to others, a menace. But in Melaka , trishaws are out of this world. 

This historic port city is home to the blingiest trishaws around, adorned with Hello Kitty neons, the Frozen logo, and lighting rigs that could almost guide lost ships to shore. Lavished in flowers, tinsel and knock-off logos, more than 300 ostentatious trishaws ply their trade in Melaka, some offering history tours.

Aboard a trishaw, you might trundle past the Sultanate Palace and the spiky silhouette of the replica Flor de la Mar . You can spin through Dutch Square , which is lined with pinkish buildings like Christ Church . And as the sun dips below the horizon, your trishaw will begin to twinkle with fairy lights, lanterns and neon signs – it's hard to resist snapping a selfie.

7. Take a hike through Taman Negara

Reality check: for all Malaysia's natural splendor, the country faces serious environmental challenges, like encroachment of palm plantations on forested land. These threats make pockets of unspoiled nature like Taman Negara even more precious.

Literally " National Park ," Taman Negara is 4343 sq km (1676 sq miles) of primeval, protected land crossing Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu states. Its 130 million-year-old rainforest is among the oldest in the world (pipped to the title by Australia's Daintree), and along its trails, you're enclosed by the deafening soundtrack of jungle life. Fairy-sized katydids whirr through the forest, macaques chatter in the branches, and hornbills clack their beaks from above. If you're lucky, a gaur, an Asian bison with a distinctive bowl cut, will lumber into view. If you're incredibly lucky, you'll see a glimpse of a tiger, elephant or ultra-rare Malayan peacock-pheasant. 

Planning tip:  Whatever your fortunes spotting wildlife, don't miss walking the 45m-high (148ft-high) canopy walkway, taking a firefly boat ride or joining an after-dark hike to see things that go bump (or squeak, or scuttle) in the night.

8. Witness a flight of bats at eerie Mulu Caves

The island of Borneo is an every day Eden, where rainforests and reefs teem with wildlife. Amid this natural abundance, it's challenging to zoom in on one particular spectacle, but Gunung Mulu still rises to the top. 

At this national park, toothy limestone pinnacles add drama to a landscape of 60 million-year-old rainforests, twisting streams and deep grottoes. The most momentous experience is seeing the skies blacken with bats pouring out of the mouth of Deer Cave . Up to three million bats hang around in these dank chambers, and their mid-air acrobatics are to flummox hawks waiting for a mammalian mouthful.

Planning tip:  Tours take you inside Deer Cave and amid the spiraling stalactites of nearby Lang Cave, before you step outside to watch the aerial spectacle from around 5pm.

9. Go off-grid on a private jungle island in Royal Belum State Park

What does solitude even mean in the era of smartphones? Find out by going cold turkey on a private island in Royal Belum State Park , way up north in Peninsular Malaysia's Belum-Temenggor Rainforest.

Taking the longboat to the resort, your vibrating phone will fall into a slumber. To replace the constant overstimulus, dive off the island jetty for a swim, sleep in an A-frame tent, and awake to watch for all 10 species of hornbills swooping overhead. You can take guided hikes through the jungle in search of whopping great rafflesia blooms, and watch out for tell-tale elephant footprints in the mud. 

10. Join a cooking class in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is a confluence of cuisines. There are thriving scenes for Malay, Peranakan, Indian and Chinese food, always with distinctly local and regional twists; try Penang laksa , Ipoh chicken beansprouts, and every variety of cendol (an icy, coconut milk refresher) you can find. Fading colonial influences, like Dutch, British and Portuguese, also lend their recipes to this steaming smorgasbord.

Some flavors will forever be a twinkle in the chef's eye, but you can take a few recipes home by joining a cooking class. Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to go, offering myriad options where skilled chefs will guide you through recipes like prawn fritters, nasi lemak (coconut rice with all the trimmings) and famous beef rendang .

Planning tip:  LaZat Malaysian Home Cooking has been around since 2007, and offers a changing menu that spans classic rice noodle dish char kway teow , fragrant kapitan chicken and sago pudding. 

11. Dive with turtles at Sipadan Island

Malaysia boasts a few marine paradises, but Sipadan is uncommonly remote and wild. The island is an extinct volcanic cone where coral reefs flourish, and palm trees provide scant shade on bone-white beaches. These waters are a catwalk of superstars: head out on a dive and spot big-eye trevallies, hammerhead sharks and two species of turtle – green and hawksbill. They're so abundant that it's not unusual to see a dozen turtles on a single dive!

Planning tip:  The journey to Sipadan takes effort: after landing on Malaysian Borneo, you'll either connect to Tawau or bus onwards to Semporna , from where you can day trip to the island (or stay elsewhere on the archipelago; Sipadan itself doesn't allow overnight stays).

12. Look for bearded pigs in Bako National Park

Sarawak's teeming Bako National Park checks off much of the Bornean wildlife ticklist: dense jungle, mischievous monkeys, slinky water monitors and orchids peeping from the ground. More than 190 bird species flit, soar and chatter through Bako, the oldest national park in Sarawak.

So, what makes it distinctive? Firstly, the sea stacks that lend it a dramatic silhouette, sculpted by the action of water (admire them from Pandan Kecil beach). And secondly, the prospect of spotting bearded pigs, whose fuzzy bodies and shaggy snouts make for a gruff and adorable encounter. 

Planning tip:  Staying overnight is the best way to maximize chances of a sighting. Take a night walk with an experienced guide who will point the way. 

13. Meet magnificent apes in Sepilok, Borneo 

We share approximately 97% of our DNA with orangutans, so why not pay these long-lost relatives a visit? Make Sepilok your base: at the 43 sq km (17 sq mile)  Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre , you can watch shaggy apes swing into view. The center pairs young primates with older partners to school them in the ways of the jungle before release. Next, head to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary , less than half an hour's drive away. Listen for the thundering sound as they race across the wooden boardwalk at feeding time. Their squishy noses and pot bellies have a strange dignity… so like us humans! 

Add a third mammalian encounter by visiting Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre , which rescues members of Southeast Asia's smallest bear family. There are 45 of these honey-guzzling cuties on site.

14. Get a bird's eye view on Langkawi Island

Langkawi is a true holiday island, with blonde beaches and rugged jungles. The best way to experience its splendor? Get up high.

Ride the SkyCab up to Gunung Machinchang (713m/2339ft), where engineering marvel Langkawi Sky Bridge stands; or drive up to admire views from 881m (2890ft) Gunung Raya. Alternatively, zip-lining helps you feel the wind in your hair and gives you a shot of adrenaline as you fly above the geopark's canopy, startling a few hornbills along the way.

15. Marvel at a spectacular mosque in Kuala Kangsar

Malaysia is studded with magnificent mosques, from Mogul-era marvels to functional modern constructions, but one masjid steals the show for its sheer grandeur: Masjid Ubudiah in the rocky region of Perak. Designed by famed architect AB Hubback, the mosque's whopping gold domes and Italian marble are a visual feast. It's not the only showpiece in town, either: take a spin around Muzium Diraja Kuala Kangsar and the Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah for an extra dose of architectural opulence.  

This article was first published Feb 4, 2022 and updated Jan 22, 2024.

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The Top 12 National Parks in Malaysia

Malaysia sits at the heart of Southeast Asia’s most bio-diverse territory, covering thousands of plant and animal species in a multitude of habitats, altitudes, and ecosystems. The Malaysian government has set aside parts of its territory as nature reserves: places where visitors can see nature up close without spoiling the environment.

Check out these nature reserves the next time you visit Malaysia—many of them are surprisingly close to major Malaysian cities, and can be seen in the space of a day.

Gunung Gading National Park, Sarawak

Tourism Malaysia

Gunung Gading National Park in Sarawak was established specifically to protect the rare, odoriferous Rafflesia flower . The flower is one of Southeast Asia’s weirdest wildlife finds. The park is the perfect setting for the Rafflesia flower—the landscape is carpeted in dense rainforest and cut through by mountain streams. A 'plank walk' crosses the ground above blooming Rafflesia, allowing visitors to observe the plants without disturbing them.

The Park is best explored through a series of trekking trails, the longest one ascending the park’s namesake mountain (Gunung Gading). The Gunung Gading park can be easily reached from the city of Kuching ; only day trips are permitted within the park grounds, as camping in the park is not allowed.

Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Selangor

Only two hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur , this wetland nature reserve protects about 800 acres of mangrove, estuaries, and a 25-acre brackish lake. Permanent residents include fiddler crabs, silvered langur monkeys, herons, and Brahminy kites. Migratory birds also use Kuala Selangor as a stopover.

Around the lake, you can set up shop at one of three wildlife observation towers, and watch out for the wildlife going about their business. Visits to the park begin at the Visitor’s Center, where you can pay for entrance, get refreshments, and souvenirs after your jaunt around the park.

Lambir Hills National Park, Sarawak

For such a small park (17,180 acres), the Lambir Hills National Park in Sarawak possesses an extremely diverse ecosystem, with thousands of plant and animal species sheltering in the park premises. Over 230 different avian species can be found in Lambir Hills! Perhaps because of it’s the rugged terrain–the hilly sandstone covered with dipterocarp forest, and an endless series of bathing pools and waterfalls.

Visitors can explore Lambir Hills through a variety of forest walks for all fitness levels–some walks take less than 20 minutes to finish, while others require the whole day and a stout constitution. The park is conveniently located only 30 minutes by bus from Miri.

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Mount Kinabalu looms over 13,000 feet over Sabah–the tallest mountain in Malaysia, covering about 300 square miles of pristine forest and mountain territory. It shelters over 326 species of birds, 4,500 species of plants, and 100 different species of mammal.

Surprisingly, the mountain is a relative doddle to climb—over 40,000 people a year come to Mount Kinabalu just to climb it, with no need for special equipment or experience.

Due to the biodiversity on its slopes, Mount Kinabalu (specifically, the park that was created to protect it) was recognized as Malaysia's first World Heritage Site in 2000. The entrance to the park is located about 56 miles from Kota Kinabalu , a two-hour journey by bus from the state capital.

Penang National Park, Penang

Malaysia Tourism

Malaysia's smallest and youngest national park is located on the northwestern tip of Penang Island—a 10 square mile parcel of land. It shelters a “meromictic” lake (a kind of lake with both salty and fresh-water that do not mix), eight of Penang’s most unspoiled beaches, and mangrove forests.

Start at the Interpretation Center at the park entrance before you head out into the interior. Three trails lead into the Park’s diverse collection of habitats; you can actually see the entirety of the park’s contents within a single day if you begin early enough!

Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Sarawak

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

The 1,613-acre Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is an animal shelter dedicated to the preservation of the endangered orangutan. Far from being kept in cages, the orangutans in Semenggoh are allowed to come and go as they please, enjoying the thick forest canopy as free apes and benefiting from the care of the park rangers.

Most of the orangutans came to Semenggoh as orphans or rescues from captivity—the main goal of the park is to help them re-acclimate to life in the wild.

In Semenggoh, you get a rare chance to see orangutans in their natural habitat, before they make it out on their own. The park is only 12 miles south of Kuching—a bus leaves from Jalan Mosque to go to Semenggoh.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, Sabah

Richard I'Anson / Getty Images

Like the Semenggoh nature reserve, Sepilok in East Sabah is dedicated to the care and protection of the endangered orangutan endemic to Borneo's forests. The park is set amidst the 5,529-hectare Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve near the city of Sandakan. Visitors can climb large viewing platforms to see apes being rehabilitated for future life in the wild. Your best chance of seeing Sepilok's orangutans occurs during feeding times at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.; visitors are discouraged from actually touching the animals.

In the same forest reserve, the Rainforest Discovery Centre allows visitors to see forest life from above, through a series of elevated walkways and towers that allow visitors to view the forest canopy and its residents from 100 feet in the air!

Langkawi Geopark, Kedah

The Langkawi Geopark was the first natural reserve in Southeast Asia awarded UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2007. No surprise there, as Langkawi embodies the ideals of natural beauty and ecological harmony sought by UNESCO.

Three geologically distinct areas make up the Langkawi Geopark, all accessible through tours arranged in the city. The Kilim River’s limestone formations make up the best part of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park; the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park, on the other hand, revolves around a granite mountain dating back to the Paleozoic.

Finally, the Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park lies south of Langkawi, centered around Langkawi’s second-largest island Pulau Dayang Bunting.  

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Sabah

This marine park covers about 12,185 acres of sea territory, with five islands and masses of coral reefs within its boundaries. Located only five miles from Kota Kinabalu , the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a favorite getaway for Kinabalu families on weekends. You can go camping on the beach on most of the islands in the park, but you’ll be charged a camping permit before you set up camp.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s corals shelter an impressive variety of marine life—this, in addition to the marine park’s shallow water and weak currents, makes it a prime stop for divers. If you’re lucky, you may see whale sharks hunting plankton in these waters. (Find out more about diving in Sabah .)

Royal Belum State Park, Perak

The Temenggor Lake at the center of the Royal Belum State Park was formed by a hydroelectric dam project ; despite the lake’s recent vintage, the rainforest that surrounds it is one of the world’s oldest, dating back some 130 million years.

Some of the world’s most endangered large mammals make their home in the forests, among them the Asiatic Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros, and the Malayan Tapir. It’s not likely that a casual visitor will spy them on their first trip out, but there’s far more to the park than rare animals.

You might be able to see one or more of the three species of rafflesia flower in the underbrush or go freshwater fishing in Lake Temenggor. You can also trek to the Pulau Tujuh waterfalls, visit the massive Temenggor Dam, or make contact with the local orang asli (tribal folk) who live in Kampung Chuweh.  

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Sabah

Set in 400 acres of Sabah jungle about 24 miles from Sandakan airport, the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is home to about 60 floppy-nosed proboscis monkeys. It is a small community of gravely endangered primates whose habitat has been seriously eroded by human encroachment. (Forests have been cleared to make way for palm oil plantations—the monkeys have nowhere else to go.)

Visitors get a rare chance to see proboscis monkeys in a semi-wild environment within the park premises—two platforms serve the monkeys during two daily feeding times. The park’s trails also allow guests to explore the surrounding forest; visitors should leave early in the morning, to see the animals at their most active.

Kubah National Park, Sarawak

Tourism Malaysia 

While Kubah National Park has its fair share of animals, it’s the plant life that really draws your attention. This includes orchids, pitcher plants, and over 90 species of tropical palm that inhabit the 2,200 hectares that make up this nature reserve a short drive from Kuching .

The Matang mountain range creates the Park’s dramatic backdrop, most particularly Gunung Serapi, whose summit can be easily reached over a paved pedestrian road. It takes six hours to get there and back. For a real challenge, try one of the six jungle trails that take travelers deep into the local dipterocarp forest, and to scenic stops like the Kubah Waterfall and several viewpoints looking over the mountains and the Santubong peninsula beyond.

Camping facilities are available for travelers who want to stay overnight and make the most out of their Kubah National Park visit.  

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Beautiful tea fields in Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is the place to watch stunning tea fields. Boh Tea Plantation is the biggest in the country and the views over there are to die for. Enjoy a cup of tea and a freshly baked scone at the plantation restaurant, while enjoying magnificent panoramas.

Crystal clear water at Perhentian Island

Perhentian Island is one of Malaysia's best kept secrets. Actually consisting of two small islands, both offer similar accommodation and both are surrounded by crystal clear sea water, with perfect scuba diving and snorkeling conditions. Go enjoy island life to the fullest!

Perfect beach holiday at Langkawi Island

Langkawi Island has everything you need for the ultimate beach holiday. White powdery beaches, a wide range of hotels and resorts, delicious food and a huge amount of sights and attractions. You can easily spend a whole week and still long for more.

Jungle adventures at Taman Negara

Taman Negara is one of the oldest primary rainforests in the world and due to its close proximity to Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur, travelers can reach this pristine jungle fairly easily. Highlights consists of jungle hikes, a canopy walk, night safari's and river cruises.

Boat exploration at Lake Kenyir

Lake Kenyir the biggest man made lake system in Malaysia. Over the years it has evolved into a unique ecosystem with many sights and even a chance to spot wildlife like monkeys, elephants, hornbills and much more. Some even spotted the elusive black panther along the shores.

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Peninsular East Coast

• Lang Tengah

Peninsular West Coast

• Pulau Payar
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Places to visit

• Cameron Highlands
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Top 5 Wildlife Destinations in Malaysia

Welcome to heaven on earth. An exotic paradise with lush beaches and ancient rainforests, Malaysia is one of the most underrated destinations in the world. Far from the party hotspots of Bali and Thailand, nature tours in Malaysia will take you to places you’ve never even imagined. As you soak in the natural beauty and explore the rich biodiversity of this Southeast Asian gem, you quickly realize why it’s come to be known as the “Wild East.”

With some of the oldest and most dynamic ecosystems in the world, there are countless national parks and conservation areas throughout Malaysia. While many countries in the region are perfect for a long solo hike, this is the kind of place you’ll want to dig deeper. Tours in Malaysia led by a professional ranger will guide you through the layers of dazzling flora and fauna that surround you at every turn.

Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Here are the top five places to experience the wonders of wildlife in Malaysia.

1. Taman Negara Tropical Rainforest

The world’s oldest tropical rainforest, Taman Negara, is an amazing 130 million years old. Located on the Malay peninsula, this is an essential stop in the mainland before hopping off to Borneo. It is home to the iconic Canopy Walkway, which is the longest canopy walkway in the world. It is a prime vantage point for spotting water buffalo, Malayan peacock-pheasants, barking deer, sun bears, and other animals that are unique to the incredible collection of wildlife in Malaysia.

Another must-see of Taman Negara is the otherworldly Rafflesia arnoldii, also known as the “stinking corpse lily.” Don’t let the name put you off! While the smell is indeed awful, you’ve just got to see it. It’s only found in this region and, while it’s not the most beautiful plant in the world, it is the biggest. These bizarre flowers can clock in at more than 20 pounds and span a shocking 39 inches wide.

2. Mount Kinabalu in Kinabalu Park

Located on the famous island of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia. As soon as you see pictures of this place, you will know why it has a permanent place at the top of every serious traveler’s bucket list.

The international island of Borneo is shared between Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brunei, and it’s one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. While it is worth exploring from top to bottom, the real treasure is the Malaysian state of Sabah. It’s here you will find the granite spires of Mountain Kinabalu towering over the World Heritage Site of Kinabalu Park . Search for rare orchids, go Alpine rock climbing, and get up-close and personal with the unique wildlife in Malaysia like orangutans, Oriental small-clawed otters, and endemic species like Bornean ferret-badgers and black shrews.

Fun fact: Did you know that there are more plant species in Kinabalu alone than in all of Europe and North America combined? The park covers a mere 754 sq km (291 sq miles) but has more varieties of plants than you’d find in nearly 50 countries combined.

3. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

On the opposite side of the island of Borneo, you’ll find Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre . Founded way back in 1964, this was the first place in the world dedicated to the rehabilitation of orphan orangutans. These days the facility helps both orphaned and confiscated orangutans, as well as Sumatran rhinos, elephants, sun bears, and gibbons.

Unlike zoos where the animals are removed from their natural habitat with a focus on entertaining people, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is all about giving baby orangutans the natural skills that they need to survive in the world. It’s an education center where you can visit to observe and support the cause rather than interfere with nature. Truly one of the best places to experience wildlife in Malaysia, this place is all about ethnic animal encounters.

After you have explored the center, head over to the nearby Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve where you can see orangutans living free.

4. Mossy Forest in the Cameron Highlands

In the Cameron Highlands of Pahang, you’ll find the magical Mossy Forest. This unique spot is the result of low-level clouds that create a level of constant mist that orchids, ferns, moss, and lichen thrive in. It’s a dreamy detour while hiking Mount Irau or Mount Brinchang.

The most enchanting of tours in Malaysia, a visit to the Mossy Forest will feel like you’re stepping into a set of a fairy tale or exploring somewhere out of the Lord of the Rings. This 200 million-year-old forest is believed by locals to have been home to the dinosaurs. Wandering beneath the canopy of leaves, you can walk amongst jungle cats and gawk at the pitcher plants as you imagine what it must have been like.

With so much to take in, it’s well worth going here on a tour here rather than opting for a solo hike. The Mossy Forest limits the number of entry permits given per day so it’s not the kind of place you want to show up on a whim. On top of that, a guide here will be able to give you explanations on the local flora and fauna so you walk away with a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem.

Tip- When you book a tour of the Mossy Forest, opt for an option that’ll take you to the local tea plantation. It’s absolutely gorgeous and well worth exploring.

5. Similajau National Park

Opened in 1978, this park is ideal for anyone looking to get off the beaten path. Explore the 25 miles of lush beaches beside the South China Sea, see the planet’s biggest salt-water crocodiles, gawk at the 185 species of birds, then go for a hike amongst the wild boars, macaques, and some of the other stunning wildlife in Malaysia that you just won’t find elsewhere.

Located 30 km (18 mi) northeast of the small coastal town of Bintulu, you do need to do a bit of planning to get to Similajau National Park. There’s no regular bus service so you’ll have to book a taxi to get to and from there. You’ll also find boats for rent at the Bintulu Wharf, which will be a bit more pricey, but well worth it.

From the Malay peninsula to the tip of Borneo, Malaysia is a nature lover’s dream come true. With a one-of-a-kind array of exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes, it is truly a world-class destination with affordable and unforgettable excursion options.

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Got any good tips to share with us? Do you know of any great things to do in Malaysia, or tips on the best places to eat? Let us know by leaving a reply below!

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Tagging: Cameron Highlands , Destinations , Malaysia , Mossy Forest , Mount Kinabalu , National Parks , Orangutans , Sepilok , Similajau National Park , Taman Negara , Wildlife

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21 Best places to visit in Malaysia – Ultimate Bucket List

Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country, spans the parts of the Malay Peninsula and Borneo Island. The country is famous for its rainforests, white sand beaches, colonial buildings, and a mixture of modern skyscrapers with old historical architecture. Besides, Malaysia is one of the multicultural countries you’ll visit in the region with a heavy influence of European, Chinese, and Malay cultures. Unfortunately, I only visited the capital, Kuala Lumpur, so I asked other travel bloggers to suggest some of the best places to visit in Malaysia to help you create an ultimate bucket list. 

This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂   Learn more

More posts you might want to read:

→ Kuala Lumpur Itinerary – best things to do in 3 days

→ Best hotels in Kuala Lumpur – mid-range and luxury accommodation

→ 21 best places to visit in Malaysia – explore what Malaysia has to offer

Best cities in Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is a modern metropolitan city with a 452 meters tall Petronas Twin Towers dominating the skyline. Even though the city’s skyscrapers and tall glass-covered buildings attract the eye, Kuala Lumpur has lots of green spaces and parks to escape the heat or relax after long walks. 

There are plenty of places to visit in Kuala Lumpur . However, the major attractions are its colorful temples and mosques of its multicultural population of Malay, Indian, and Chinese cultures. 

Its bustling streets of food and shopping stalls add a special charm to the city along with the colonial-era architecture that can’t be missed. Make sure to visit the railway station , one of the best examples of Eastern and Western design mixture. 

Besides architectural landmarks, Kuala Lumpur has several interesting museums to satisfy history buffs and museum lovers. Art enthusiasts can also find galleries and art museums along its streets. 

One of the things to do in Kuala Lumpur is to take a day trip to Batu Caves – a limestone hill with several cave temples and caves. The site is one of the most famous Hindu shrines outside India. To get to the temple, you need to walk up 272 colorful steps making it one of the most photographed spots over the recent years.

There’s an awful lot to love about Ipoh, the biggest city in peninsular Malaysia’s Perak state. Often overlooked for more-popular Penang, Ipoh has many of the same charms without the crowds or inflated costs.

Ipoh is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia for food . There are a number of regional specialties to try, including the famous Ipoh bean sprout chicken. Ipoh is the birthplace of ‘white coffee’ and you can find this icy, sweet beverage served at cafes all over the city. It pairs best with Macau-style custard tarts, another Ipoh specialty.

When you’re not eating or drinking, the best things to do in Ipoh include hunting down the street art (there are thousands of murals here – check out Mural Arts Lane for some of the best), walking the Ipoh Heritage Trail to discover the city’s beautiful British colonial architecture, exploring the cute alleyways, and visiting Ipoh’s house museums. Just outside of the city, you’ll find incredible cave temples, lakes, and forest trails that are perfect for short hikes.

Like the rest of Malaysia, Ipoh gets very hot in summer so it’s recommended to visit in shoulder season . You can easily reach Ipoh by bus or train from Kuala Lumpur , and because of its location, it’s a good place to split up the journey between KL and Penang. Don’t just skip through in a day, be sure to book a few nights at one of the city’s cute boutique hotels to make the most of your visit.

Recommended by Wander-Lush

As few people go to Perak capital’s Ipoh, even fewer know that 20km to the south is Gopeng, one of West Malaysia’s prime adventure destinations. Set next to the Kampar river, it boasts world-class white water rafting, large caves, and tall waterfalls — there are certainly many things to do in Gopeng .

Start with a visit to the town on a weekend. The Gopeng Museum and the Heritage House in the main square offer a good introduction to the importance that Gopeng had in British colonial times when it was one of Perak’s main tin mining centers. The Heritage House is a collection of old memorabilia such as wooden four-poster beds, old typing machines, and clothes, and is an interesting way to spend an hour pretending to be in colonial Malaya.

The Gopeng market sells fresh produce and sits next to a food court where you can have delicious  lai fun  (Gopeng’s own twist to noodle soup),  chee cheong fun , and  roti bakar  — toasted bread smeared in coconut jam and butter — which is always a godsend when paired with a cup of the local white coffee.

But most visitors come to town to go further south along the Kampar River to either raft, hop on a kayak, or hunt for tropical fruits like the foul-smelling durian. The area also has a 10-meter-high waterfall at Ulu Genruntum that’s popular for abseiling.

Further inland at Kampung Ulu Geroh the community of local Orang Asli (Malaysian aboriginal people) organizes homestays and treks to see the rafflesia, the biggest flower in the world . If you venture this far, you’ll be able to see the rare Rajah Brooke butterflies fluttering around in big numbers.  

Nearby Gua Tempurung is West Malaysia’s biggest cave and offers spelunking trips of different levels of difficulty. Not far away is Gua Kandu, once a hideout for the communist insurgents of the Malayian emergency, with a cool zipline that sends you soaring across its biggest chamber of the cave. During World War II the Japanese invaders planned to house a plane hangar in this chamber.

Recommended by Penang Insider

Penang (Georgetown)  

When dreaming of Malaysia, there are usually two things that come to mind: the vibrant, lip-smacking cuisine and world-famous street art. You can find both in droves on the island of Penang, a region renowned for gastronomic dishes like Char Koay Teow and Asam Laksa, but equally notable for the globally-known artworks of Ernest Zacharevic and the murals adorning its many street walls.

While Penang is technically an island, it’s also a state. The island itself is so large (and connected to the mainland via a bridge) that your first thoughts won’t be about sandy shores. Penang is not really the place for beach lovers; instead, it’s packed with cultural delights (and food markets!) and heaps of heritage, so much so that it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site back in 2008.

The crowning glory of Penang is the city of Georgetown , where most visitors flock. Spend your time there meandering around the many museums, checking out Cheong Fatt Tze (the Blue House), finding out more about the local Peranakan culture, or simply slurping up noodles at the many fabulous food stalls. Make sure to carve out a few hours to spot street art in Penang as the city boasts some of the planet’s most prominent pieces, all perfect for that Instagram selfie!  

If you have some time left, head all the way up Penang Hill to visit The Habitat . Accessed via a funicular (which only costs 30 MYR per person), you’ll love the panoramic views from the top, plus the unique treetop walk and natural rainforests of The Habitat, a world-class natural experience.

Recommended by The Travel Scribes

Melaka (also spelled as Melacca) is a UNESCO World Heritage riverside town, rich in British, Dutch, and Portuguese colonial history. The town is a popular tourist destination as one of the options for day trips from Kuala Lumpur , while some prefer to stay for a few nights.

The best way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka is either by private car transfer or by taking the bus. There are several buses departing during the day and the journey takes 2.5 hours, costing around 15 MYR for a one-way ticket. 

The town is very compact so you can easily explore it by foot adorning its wonderful colorful heritage buildings, quirky street art, and famous historical landmarks such as A Famosa Fort and Christ Church. 

There are many fun things to do in Melaka but one of the highlights is the huge Jonker Street Weekend Night Market. This is one of the best markets in Southeast Asia and runs every Friday to Sunday, starting from the river and ending at the far end of Jonker Street. You’ll find multiple stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and amazing Malaysian delicacies. Make sure you try Nyonya Laksa – a rich and creamy coconut-based noodle soup that is a Melaka specialty and a mix of Malay and Chinese influences. 

Another fun thing to do is to take a scenic river cruise and view the many beautiful historical buildings and interesting sights around Melaka’s old town, including Kampung Morten – one of the few remaining traditional villages in the area. 

Visit Melaka as a full-day trip from Kuala Lumpur

Recommended by CK Travels 

Putrajaya 

Ambition or vision? These two should come into someone’s mind while visiting Putrajaya, the newly developed federal administrative capital of Malaysia. Constructed on a marshland amidst green plantation, and inspired by Islamic architectures, this area will also work as the permanent residence of the most powerful persons in Malaysia – their ministers. 

The major top attractions of Putrajaya are dotted in front of the waterfront. So, go to the waterfront straight away and appreciate the beauty of the pink-domed Putra Mosque which can accommodate 15,000 worshipers on a single go. There is a huge square in front of this mosque to observe the vibrant life around. From here, you can also enjoy the Putrajaya lake, which has a wonderful white bridge. 

Once you have enough of the mosque and the lake, stretch your leg a bit to reach Perdana Putra, the office of the Malaysian prime minister. This wonderfully made architecture will surely inspire you with awe. You may continue exploring more architectures like Seri Perdana, Wisma Putra, or head straight to Taman Putra Perdana, which is a quiet hilltop park. You will be able to enjoy a pleasant landscape and get a wonderful view of the town. 

If you visit Putrajaya during the weekend, you might have an eerie feeling as it can become absolutely quiet. Experience Putrajaya before people goes in a flock.

Putrajaya is strategically placed between Kuala Lumpur and the airport (KILA), therefore g etting from KILA or Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya is extremely easy by taking a taxi, train, or bus. 

Recommended by A Walk in the World

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is a Malaysian town and state located in the south of inland Malaysia just on the border with Singapore. At first glance, it’s a small town, which doesn’t have much to offer. But once you start exploring you discover that JB (locals quite often refer to town just by its initials) is an exciting place to be.  

The old town is nothing pretty but it does have its own charm and it’s a perfect place to explore eateries and coffee shops, which have such mouthwatering (and cheap) food that neighboring Singapourians travel here weekly for a weekend feast. The favorite restaurant for many is the Flowers in the Window. 

One of the best attractions in JB, especially if you visit with a family is LEGOLAND.  Unlimited rollercoaster rides, Lego workshops, and much more will satisfy everyone young at heart.

In addition, Johor Bahru is a great place for shopping; even though the town is small it does have big shopping malls with all big brands and knock off all.

And if or when you get bored of Johor Bahru, Singapore is only 45 minutes away by public transport or a taxi.

Recommended by The Traveling Twins

Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands is a beautiful hilltop resort city and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaysia. The real charm of the town, however, lies in the relaxed atmosphere, which together with its wonderful resorts and scenic surroundings, makes for an unforgettable romantic getaway. 

The city is bestowed with nature’s best endeavors in the form of a pleasantly cool environment, gorgeous strawberry farms, hilly landscapes, and greenness. 

Its Resorts World Genting is famous for hosting the only legal casinos in Malaysia. In addition to this, the resort is home to a world-class indoor theme park, gaming arenas, restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, spa centers, live shows, and various shopping outlets. 

Your adventure starts right at the onset of your trip through the Awana Skyway cable car ride which takes you from Kuala Lumpur city to Genting Highlands . The breathtaking beauty of the green valleys, forests, and hills unfold before you and leave you mesmerized. 

Once you are at the Resorts World Genting, participate in the plethora of entertainment activities. The central arena designed like New York City’s Times Square hosts live shows. The area also has a replica of the Statue of Liberty. This arena has all the popular food outlets offering a variety of cuisines too.

Apart from Resorts World Genting, make a visit to the marvelous strawberry leisure farms, Arena of Stars – a musical amphitheater, Sky Avenue Concept Mall, or enjoy the cool climate at the green spaces which are closely located to the resort.

The best time to visit Genting Highlands is March till September when the temperature is cool and there is very little rainfall.

Join an organized tour to Genting Highlands from Kuala Lumpur as a day trip

Recommended by Cheerful Trails

Kuching 

Kuching is the capital of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. The easiest way to reach Kuching is by plane with direct flights from Malaysian cities. 

Known as the Cat City , Kuching’s name comes from the Malay word for cat, making it one of the unique and best places to visit in Malaysia. Kuching embraces this and has cat statues spread around the city. Additionally, City Hall houses a Cat Museum.  

Make sure to visit Fort Margherita constructed in 1879 by Rajah of Sarawak, Charles Brooke. It is now a museum and gallery with exhibits about the Brooke family.  Other Kuching attractions include the Sarawak Museum and the Natural History Museum. Close by is the Islamic Heritage Museum and the beautiful Kuching City Mosque. Don’t forget to check out the Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple near the Kuching Waterfront.

Alternatively, spend a day exploring Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about many indigenous groups that live in the region. Nature-lovers should visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve to see the orangutans, as they come twice a day to eat at the center. In addition, the reserve is home to other animals such as crocodiles and birds. To get to the reserve , catch a bus from Mosque Rd. 

Another notable area to explore is Bako National Park to see the Proboscis Monkeys. Walk on its trails to spot monkeys and boars. Getting it is easy by a number 1 red public bus from the Kuching Waterfront. [More on the Bako National Park below]

After all this sightseeing, you will need to treat yourself to delicious meals, as Kuching is famous for its incredible food .  

Recommended By Beth at Frugal Female Abroad 

Malaysian Islands 

Sipadan island – best for scuba diving in malaysia.

The spectacular Sipidan diving paradise is one of the most exotic and offbeat locations , not just in Malaysia but also throughout the world! Sipadan is Malaysia’s largest ocean island, rises an astounding 600 meters from the vast Sulawesi Sea seafloor (off the eastern coast of Sabah State). 

Previously an active volcano, it has been formed by living corals that have made their home here over thousands of years. Today this unfamiliar environment has an amazingly vibrant pelagic marine ecosystem and is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. 

Not to mention, it has some of the nation’s most excellent scuba diving. This tropical paradise sits just five degrees north of the equator and houses more than 2000 species of fish and scores of colorful coral species. 

It is a popular spot for divers to find hawksbill turtles, parrotfish, and barracuda. Also, regular guests are manta rays, eagle rays, the majestic hammerhead sharks, and mammoth whale sharks. Although you might see one or two turtles on a dive in other parts of the world (if you are lucky), on Sipidan, you will almost always see more than twenty.  

There are a dozen popular dive sites on the island. Turtle Cavern, Barracuda Point, and the Hanging Gardens are among the most prominent. 

Sipadan Island is legally guarded, so tourists can’t sleep on the island any longer. They instead remain on Mabul Island and receive a permit provided by the Sabah government supplier of local diving operators. Every day, they give out around 179 permits . Therefore, sometimes they are booked in advance for months. So if you want to visit this incredible place in Malaysia, plan ahead.

Recommended By Inspired By Maps

Redang Island – relaxing and isolated getaway

One of the largest islands off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula, Redang Island is well known for its crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, and an abundance of marine life. 

Located in a marine park sanctuary in the Kuala Nerus District of Terengganu, it is a haven for those in need of an isolated getaway in a natural, undisturbed surrounding. While many travels here for a relaxed beach holiday, the island has plenty of activities to enjoy. 

There is the opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive as it boasts beautiful hard and soft coral gardens and sandy bottom sites. In addition to your typical tropical marine life, expect a diversity of tropical reef life as well as an abundance of sea life. 

You will also find a calm lagoon lined with mangroves behind the shore that offers seclusion, resulting in very little current flow and a safe place to swim. The island has some of the best beaches in Malaysia while the rainforests that cover much of the interior are home to a number of waterfalls and fauna. 

The region has something to offer for every visitor and no traveling to Malaysia is complete without a stay to what is often considered to be one of the best islands to visit .

Recommended By A Rai of Light

The Perhentian Islands – perfect for diving in Malaysia

The Perhentian Islands is a spectacular tropical paradise located close to the coast of North-East Malaysia. Beautiful coral reefs rich in marine life and long powder white sandy beaches surround the islands.

The two main Perhentian islands are Pulau Perhentian Besar (The Big Island) and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, the Small Perhentian Island. There is fantastic diving around the Perhentian Islands , the archipelago surrounding the islands is accessible by small boat with plenty of fantastic reef and wreck dive sites. The reef close to the islands offers great snorkeling in the crystal clear, warm water with beautiful coral formations, reef sharks, large bump head parrotfish, and plenty of other amazing creatures that can be seen snorkeling from the beach. 

The beautiful sandy beaches are great for swimming with nice hiking trails leading into the surrounding forest. You have to walk everywhere on these islands or take a boat taxi , there are no roads or cars! 

To get to the Perhentian islands fly to Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) and take a taxi to Kuala Besut Jetty . From the jetty take a boat to the Perhentian Islands.

The Perhentian Islands have a variety of accommodation ranging from beautiful luxury accommodation to camping. Perhentian Besar is the honeymoon island , less developed with more expensive resorts and restaurants, while Perhentian Kecil attracts more budget travelers with a chilled-out backpacker vibe and many dive centers.

Recommended By Stingy Nomads

Tioman Island – tropical Malaysian island getaway

For anyone who is a nature lover who likes to escape it all on tropical beaches, don’t miss Tioman Island! Located off the southeastern part of peninsular Malaysia, Tioman is easily reached by ferry from Mersing or Tanjung Gemok which can be reached in a couple of hours from Singapore or Johor Bahru. The 1.5-2 hour ferry (depending on which part of the island you disembark) is easy and part of the adventure with great views of Tioman Island on the way in. There is a Marine Park entrance fee to enter the island to be paid before hopping on your ferry.

The island itself is stunning with a great coastline and a mountainous interior filled with jungle. There are only a few roads and most exploration is possible by foot or boat. Most attractions are based in the sea, with great marine life to check out via snorkeling or diving, or on land, with great hiking opportunities.

Tioman Island offers many water sports activities, some great beaches to explore, and many boat trips. There is also a turtle sanctuary and a Marine Park Information Centre.

There is a range of accommodation on the island but prices are more expensive than on the mainland . The best choice is the Berjaya Tioman which is connected by road to a couple of places for easy exploration. For other suggestions on where to stay in Tioman, read this guide here .

Tioman Island is affected by monsoonal weather from late October and much of the island shut at this time with ferries unreliable. It’s best to visit at other times unless you are a surfer with Juara Beach a popular spot at this time.

Recommended By Dive into Malaysia

Pangkor Island – great to spot Hornbills 

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten, yet one of the best places in Malaysia, consider Pangkor Island as a day or overnight trip. The easiest way to get there is either from Ipoh (~1.5-hour drive) or Kuala Lumpur (~3-hour drive). You need to drive to Lumut and catch one of the regular passenger ferries (you leave your vehicle in Lumut). Or, you can catch a bus from Kuala Lumpur.

The main reason for visiting Pangkor Island is the hornbills because of their unique look. Every day during the sunset dozens of them come to the area surrounding the main beach, Pantai Pasir Bogak. There’s no way to miss seeing them. Afterward, you can indulge yourself with a meal sold at the few street food stalls on the beachfront.

There are a few other beaches along the west coast of the island, but if you’re interested in water activities Pantai Pasir Bogak is the coast for you.

There are a couple of temples on the island to visit, such as Fu Ling Kong and the Sri Pathirakaliamman temples. And if you ask around, there are guides to take you through short hikes and help you spot the wildlife. 

To get around Pangkor Island , you can walk but given the heat, the fun pink taxis will be your main form of transport. The island is becoming carbon-free, so the taxi you catch might be an electric vehicle! And you can let your friends know about the sustainable travel aspect of Pangkor.

Recommended By Chur New Zealand

Spotting Malaysia Wildlife 

The kinabatangan river .

The Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo provides a stunning opportunity for Malaysian wildlife spotting and on a low budget too. This area of Malaysia is easily reached by bus or plane from Kota Kinabalu and is the perfect place to see orangutans in the wild as well as at a nearby sanctuary.  

The Sun Bear Rescue Centre and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre [more on this below]  are well worth a day of your time to visit. The Kinabatangan River is located close to the town of Sandakan and is the second-longest river in Malaysia.  

Most Malaysian wildlife here is from river trips – there are crocodiles, macaques, monitor lizards, and a large variety of birdlife. The stars of the wildlife show here, though, are the wild orangutans, Proboscis monkeys, and the gorgeous Asian pygmy elephants. Only 1500 of these smallest elephants remain in Asia and they’re fabulous. 

These Malaysia wildlife spotting trips are mostly offered as part of an all-inclusive accommodation; food and trips deal by lodges and bed and breakfasts along the riverbank, but you can find rooms here for as little as $12 a night.  

There are no National Park fees here, transport is easily arranged – or included – from Sandakan and some lodges, like the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort, are built directly onto the river and offer dorm room facilities.

Recommended By A Social Nomad 

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

One of the best places to visit in Malaysia is the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sepilok, in North Borneo. Founded in 1964, the center was built to rehabilitate injured, orphaned, and rescued orangutans. Its located at the edge of the Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve and trains  Orangutans on how to survive in the forest. 

The center has around 60 to 80 orangutans living there, so you can come and see them. As Orangutans are becoming much harder to see in the wild, the center provides a fantastic opportunity to see these amazing creatures up close while supporting their conservation. 

The center is opened every day of the year for visitors. The ticket counter is opened from 09:00am to 11:00pm and 14:00pm to 15:30pm. Visitors can see the Orangutans being fed at 10 am and 3 pm. Tickets cost 30 MYR for foreign tourists , which allows you to see both feedings. There is an additional 10 MYR fee if you want to bring a camera . Getting to see these playful, intelligent mammals is a wonderful experience to add to your Malaysia bucket list.

Recommended By Explore with Lora

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Danum Valley Conservation Area in the Sabah region of Borneo is a great place to visit.  It is one of the few remaining areas of virgin rainforest on Borneo and because it is a designated conservation area, the ubiquitous palm plantations can’t encroach on it. 

It has incredible biodiversity, so this is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia and Borneo to see wildlife. The only place to stay in the conservation area is Borneo Rainforest Lodge .  For a cheaper option , the Danum Valley Research Center, which is just outside the conservation area, has basic accommodations. 

However, for the full Danum Valley experience, the best choice is the ecolodge in the middle of the valley. Comfortable rooms are reached over elevated wooden walkways and an enormous lodge house with open walls, where all meals are served, faces a jungled escarpment. 

Guided hikes and meals are included in the all-inclusive rate. There is a canopy walk through the treetops, which is great for bird watching and also gives a good chance of seeing orangutans . Hikes go through the steamy jungle to the top of a cliff overlooking the lodge, past ancient burial sites, and to a waterfall. It’s even possible to get a “fish spa” by having small fish, which gather in a shallow area of the river, nibble the dead skin off your feet. 

A guided night walk and a night drive give the opportunity to see many of the nocturnal creatures in the jungle, including bug-eyed tarsiers, lemurs clinging to the trunks of trees, and giant flying squirrels leaping between the trees.

The nearest airport is Lahad Datu, where Borneo Rainforest Lodge has an office.  From there, they supply a driver for the two-hour drive to the lodge.

Recommended By Travel Collecting

Sabah is a state in East Malaysia on the northern part of the island of Borneo. For most adventure-seekers, what makes Sabah one of the best places to visit in Malaysia is its famous mountain, Mount Kinabalu . Mount Kinabalu (4095m) is the tallest mountain in Malaysia and has stunning granite spires. Besides being home to Malaysia’s highest peak, Sabah also has incredibly beautiful beaches and coral reefs as well as lush rainforests, national parks, and wildlife reserves that are abundant with wildlife.

Sabah is ideal for nature-lovers and Malaysia wildlife spotting one of the best places in Malaysia to visit if you love nature and wildlife. It is home to the critically endangered orangutan , a species that shares 97% of genes with human beings. Here, you have a good chance of spotting them along with Proboscis monkeys in its jungles. 

The city is also a perfect base if you want to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre just 25 km away from the city, or taking a cruise along the Kinabatangan River offers a chance to spot the Bornean pygmy elephant.

Most visitors get to Sabah by flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. As there are so many attractions in Sabah for wildlife lovers, you’ll want to spend at least a week or more exploring the forests and visiting the reserves.

Recommended By Travel2next

National Parks in Malaysia 

Bako national park / sarawak, malaysia.

Bako National Park is the kind of place that you rarely find these days. Hidden away on the island of Borneo, it is accessible only by a combination of a car and motorboat . It’s not an easy feat to get to, but it’s well worth it for secluded beaches, endemic wildlife, and dense rainforest. 

The best thing to do in Bako is to hike along the many uncrowded trails that weave through the jungle and out to the beaches. The beaches are nice enough, but what you’re really looking for is Malaysian wildlife. If you’re lucky, you may see bearded pigs, mouse deer, civets, macaques, and the best-recognized creature of Malaysia, the Proboscis monkeys. Nighttime unlocks a whole host of other wildlife, insects, reptiles, and nocturnal creatures.

You can get to Bako from Kuching via bus or private car . From Bako Bazaar, it’s just a 20-minute trip to the Teluk Assam jetty by motorboat. Boats usually leave every hour from 8 am to 4 pm , but they typically only depart when they’re full . You can charter a private boat if you’re in a hurry. You can stay either in a forest lodge or a campsite, but because of the persistently muggy weather, stay at the lodge. Rooms start from 40 MYR .

There are surely better beaches in the world. Nature reserves with more dense wildlife or better hiking trails. But the real reason Bako is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia is for the rare travel experience in a place that is uncrowded and still very local. 

Recommended By Travel Outlandish

Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, perfect for nature lovers looking for more than pristine beaches in Malaysia. This is the most primitive virgin rainforest in the world, created more than 130 million years ago (according to the experts), which makes it much older than the Amazonian forest in South America!

Taman Negara is located 240 km northeast of Kuala Lumpur, and it is very easy to reach by car , which makes it the perfect weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. If you don’t have your own car , some of the hotels located in the park or nearby can arrange a pick up from Kuala Lumpur for an extra fee.

On-site, there are many outdoor activities, from great hiking trails to boating trips to guided excursions to explore the park’s wildlife. You can also decide to just lay on a hammock and relax with your favorite book (with the monkey’s permission) surrounded by the enchanting noise of the jungle.

Amongst all the hotels in Taman Negara, Mutiara Taman Negara Resort is the only hotel located inside the park so visitors can enjoy the jungle during all their stay. The bungalows spread along the property are pretty and with all the comforts for the modern guest, and they are located at only a few meters of the nearest hiking trails.

Travel to Taman Negara from Kuala Lumpur on a full-day tour

Recommended By World in Paris  

Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is one of the most beautiful parks to visit, not just in Malaysia but in all of Asia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its craggy peaks and cave system which is the largest in the world by surface area.

Some of the most popular caves to explore are Lang Cave, Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, Wind Cave, and Lady Cave. They each have their own unique charms and otherworldly landscapes made up of unique rock formations, swathes of greenery, stalagmites, coral structures, and more.

Deer Cave is the most well-known for the mass bat exodus which takes place each evening at dusk. The bats leave the cave in the thousands in search of food. There is a viewing platform to watch the spectacle. 

Mulu Pinnacles are the other star attraction in Gunung Mulu National Park. These interesting rock formations are located in a remote area of the park. To reach them, visitors must embark on a grueling 3-day hike. However, it is well worth the effort.

Recommended By Drink Tea & Travel

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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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Nature Worldwide

Explore the Best of Malaysia: Top 11 Best Natural Places to Visit in Malaysia

Malaysia, a vibrant and diverse country in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. From lush rainforests and pristine beaches to awe-inspiring mountains and unique geological formations, Malaysia offers a wealth of natural wonders for travelers to explore. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the Top 11 Best Natural Places to Visit in Malaysia, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Top 11 Best Natural Places to Visit in Malaysia

• Taman Negara National Park
• Cameron Highlands
• Langkawi Geopark
• Mulu Caves, Sarawak
• Bako National Park
• Perhentian Islands
• Kinabalu Park
• Penang National Park
• Endau-Rompin National Park
• Pulau Redang
• Kuala Selangor Fireflies

Best Natural Places to Visit in Malaysia

Taman negara national park:.

Taman Negara, which means “National Park” in Malay, is one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Located in the heart of Peninsular Malaysia, it offers an incredible opportunity to trek through lush jungles, go wildlife spotting, and cross the world’s longest canopy walkway.

Read More: Top 11 World’s Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches

Cameron Highlands:

The Cameron Highlands, with its rolling tea plantations, cool climate, and vibrant flowers, offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. It’s an excellent place for hiking, visiting tea factories, and exploring strawberry farms.

Langkawi Geopark:

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, is a UNESCO-listed Geopark known for its unique geological formations. Explore limestone karsts, mysterious caves, and mangrove forests, all surrounded by pristine waters.

Read More: Top Beaches in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Mulu Caves, Sarawak:

The Mulu Caves in Sarawak, Borneo, are home to some of the largest and most captivating cave systems in the world. The Sarawak Chamber, the largest cave chamber on the planet, is a must-see for spelunking enthusiasts.

Bako National Park:

Bako National Park, located in Sarawak, is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With unique ecosystems, diverse flora, and rare animal species, it’s an ideal destination for trekking and wildlife photography.

Read More: Top 11 Natural Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

Perhentian Islands:

For those seeking a tropical paradise, the Perhentian Islands are an idyllic escape. These two islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, are known for their turquoise waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, making them a mecca for snorkelers and scuba divers.

Kinabalu Park:

Home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, Kinabalu Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hotspot for trekking. The park’s rich biodiversity and unique flora make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Read More: The Best Natural Places to Visit in Laos

Penang National Park:

Situated on Penang Island, this is Malaysia’s smallest national park, but it’s teeming with natural beauty. You can explore lush jungles, trek to secluded beaches, and spot a wide range of wildlife.

Endau-Rompin National Park:

This pristine rainforest spans across the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia and is known for its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and tapirs.

Read More: Top 12 Natural Places to Visit in Thailand

Pulau Redang:

Redang Island, located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and marine life. It’s a must-visit for snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach relaxation.

Kuala Selangor Fireflies:

Witness the mesmerizing spectacle of fireflies at Kuala Selangor. A boat ride along the river at night allows you to see thousands of fireflies illuminating the mangroves, creating a truly magical experience.

Read More: Top 10 Natural Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Malaysia’s natural beauty is a treasure trove of unique experiences, from trekking through ancient rainforests to exploring stunning coral reefs and mysterious caves. As you plan your next adventure, consider including these top 11 natural places in Malaysia on your itinerary. Each destination offers a glimpse into the country’s rich biodiversity and natural wonders, promising an unforgettable journey and the chance to create lasting memories in one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations.

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Nature Spots in the East of Malaysia

Explore Malaysia Guides

Published on March 22, 2021

In Malaysia, natural beauty is everywhere and easy to explore. Walk through The Danum Valley Conservation Area’s suspended walkway and enjoy bird’s eye view of the country’s lush flora. While hiking Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s tallest mountain, climbers rise even higher, gaining a panoramic view of the area. In Maliau Basin, the views are equally as incredible from above and on the ground and feature various waterways. Looking for a more low-key take on nature? Forget exploring and relax on the beaches of Pulau Tiga. Get to know our primate relatives, the orangutan, and proboscis, at rehabilitation centers or in nature around Malaysia. However you choose to explore the natural world, Malaysia has you covered. Here are some highlights to check out.

Danum Valley Conservation Area

In 1995, the Danum Valley Conservation Area became a protected forest reserve. About 90% of the region comprises dipterocarp forest, enveloping the area in a lush sea of flora. Visitors to Danum Valley can spot plenty of fauna as well, with around 320 Species of birds, 124 species of mammals, 72 species of reptiles. 56 species of amphibians and a staggering 200 species of plants per hectare. For a bird’s eye view, make your way across the suspended walkway.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

A visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah will have you amazed at the sight of orangutans up close. As orangutans are only in Malaysia and Indonesia, the rehabilitation center dedicates itself to preserving their population. Around 25 young orphaned orangutans are being taken care of at any time, while 80 to 100 orangutans live in the reserve around the center. Take a bus or taxi to the center and attend a feeding.

Proboscis Monkey

This interesting animal is known as the proboscis monkey and lives solely on the island of Borneo. Named for the male’s long and loose nose, it lives near the swamps, rivers, and coastal mangroves of the area. The female has a slightly smaller nose while the offsprings are upturned. They are equipped to wade upright through water, a valuable skill for getting around on the island.

Mount Kinabalu

At 13,435 feet tall, Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and summited by almost 20,000 people every year. Hikers can find this geographical wonder in Sabah on the island of Borneo. Interested climbers must apply for a permit and arrange for a mountain guide before climbing one of the marked trails.

Maliau Basin

At over 145,000 acres, Maliau Basin is an expansive collection of forests with the Maliau River running through it. This spectacular bit of nature is available to explore while visiting the Malaysian region of Borneo. In 1997, the Basin was designated a protected area and extended to its current size. Make your way to a nearby rock to get an intimate look at the powerful waterway rushing through the area.

Gained ‘popularity’, thanks to the Survivor Series, Pulau Tiga is surrounded by the pristine South China Sea. Once there, you can opt to hike in the jungle, visit the nearby Snake Island to spot some wildlife, or choose to camp in the wilderness. Mud pools are also available for that beauty therapy you’ve been wanting to get!.

From the beach to the mountains, Malaysia has a natural paradise waiting for every type of traveler.

Related Guides

Culture and Heritage in ASEAN: Malaysia and Myanmar

Gua Tempurung

The Most Dazzling Gardens in Southeast Asia

Sleeping at Homestays in Southeast Asia

Top Parks & Nature Attractions in Malaysia, Asia

Nature & parks in malaysia.

• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Batu Caves

2. KLCC Park

Recommended Outdoor Activities (684)

3. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

4. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

5. Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi

6. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

9. Mount Kinabalu

10. Cenang Beach

11. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

12. Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

13. Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC)

14. Perdana Botanical Garden

15. The Habitat Penang Hill

16. Tanjung Rhu Beach

17. Tropical Spice Garden

18. Bako National Park

19. Malacca River

20. Redang Island

21. Manukan Island

22. Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

23. Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls

24. Mossy Forest

25. Penang Botanical Gardens

26. Turtle Island Park

27. Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary

28. Perhentian Islands

29. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple and Zen Gardens

30. Langkawi Wildlife Park

What travellers are saying

7 PLACES YOU MUST SEE IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

7 Places you must see in Peninsular Malaysia. A short guide to some of the regions top travel destinatio ns, sights and attractions .

About Peninsular Malaysia

Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, comprising of two non-contiguous regions separated by the South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia is found on the Asian mainland on the Malay Peninsula, south of Thailand. To its east, the Malaysian Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak are found in the north section on the island of Borneo.

It’s location on the Asian Mainland between Thailand and Singapore means Peninsular Malaysia is well and truly on the backpacker trail. However, we feel like it never gets the fan fare it deserves and is often overlooked. As a country we both used to lead tours through, we know it well. We have been lucky enough to travel up and and down this diverse part of Malaysia multiple times. With its rich cultural heritage, tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, amazing architecture and seriously tasty food, it’s a region not to be missed. Combine this with its safe and straightforward travel reputation and you have an easy and rewarding holiday destination.

So with all that said, here’s our 7 Peninsular Malaysia must-see places for any itinerary:

Kicking off our list of must-see places in Peninsular Malaysia is Penang. Located in northwest Malaysia, the Penang region’s comprised of mainland Seberang Perai and Penang Island. For the majority of travellers, it’s Penang Island they want to see and it’s their first stop if heading south from neighbouring Thailand. Forget the sights, you could totally visit for the food alone! Known as the food capital of Malaysia, visiting the Hawker stalls (big food courts) is the way to go. Try the local specialities like Char Kway Teow, Penang Hokkien Mee and Penang Assam Laksa.

For a small island, there is certainly no shortage of things to see and do in Penang, other than just eating! And Georgetown, Penang’s capital makes an ideal place to base yourself. This UNESCO-listed historic centre is where you’ll find beautifully preserved heritage buildings. Mixed in and around Georgetown, you’ll also find all sorts of murals that make up the Penang Art Trail. Away from Georgetown, make sure to head up Penang Hill for amazing views. And keep an eye-out for the adorable Dusky Leaf Monkeys and birdlife found here and in the nearby Botanical Gardens. Or if you want to just take it easy, head over to the sandy beaches of Batu Ferringhi.

Checkout our PENANG IN A DAY – OUR WHISTLE-STOP ITINERARY blog for more information on what to see and do in Penang.

2. Pulau Langkawi

The Archipelago of Langkawi is found off the regions north-west coast. The largest island in the Archipelago, Pulau Langkawi, is a tropical paradise. Easily accessible by plane from Kuala Lumpur or a ferry from Penang, it’s a seriously easy to reach beach destination. Sitting out in the Andaman Sea, this popular near 500km 2 Island is a beach-goers dream. There’s numerous white sandy beaches to lounge on and crystal clear water to swim, snorkel and dive in.

There’s plenty here for land-based nature lovers too. For amazing views take the Langkawi Cable Car to the top of mount Mat Cincang and stroll across the 125 metre-long curved Langkawi Sky Bridge. Or for the more energetic, hike up Gunung Raya (Langkawi’s highest peak) for great views and some awesome wildlife viewing opportunities. Look carefully and you might find the Dusky Leaf Monkeys, Hornbills and Flying Foxes. And don’t forget to checkout some of the islands beautiful waterfalls.

Responsible tourism tip : Avoid any tours that are practicing irresponsible unnatural practices like feeding Sea Eagles, monkeys and sea turtles.

3. Perhentian Islands

Head over to the Perhentian Islands off the coast of Terengganu in the northeast of Peninsular Malaysia. White sandy beaches and crystal clear water make this a beach lovers dream. The backpacker-friendly Perhentian Kecil provides a far more rustic experience than many of Thailands touristy beaches to the north. Venture to some of the quiet beaches like Keranji and Golden Sand (Golden Bay) to get away from the crowds. And if you’re really lucky you may even have these pieces of tropical paradises all to yourself.

Make sure to explore the underwater world while you are there. The Perhentian’s offer some of the cheapest diving in the world. For as little as $17USD, you can dive in search of Sharks, ‘Bumphead’ Parrotfish and explore wrecks. And if diving’s not your thing, it also has some of the most rewarding snorkelling spots SE Asia. Either take one of the cheap organised tours or go independently and try your luck finding Nemo, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Turtles, Bluespotted Ribbontail Rays and so much more.

Checkout our Perhentian Islands – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PERHENTIAN KECIL for more information on what to see and do.

4. Taman Negara

One of the oldest rainforests in the world, Taman Negara is thought to be around 130 million years of age. Easily accessible, it’s a wonderful area to explore with or without a guide and is must-see in Peninsular Malaysia. By far the most popular tourist activity at Taman Negara is to 500m+ Taman Negara Canopy Walk. From up here you have awesome views over the jungle canopy and if you’re lucky, you may spot some wildlife up in the treetops. For slightly less touristy vistas, take the short hike up to Bukit Teresek for nice views over the more than 4000km 2 of primary rainforest.

And for the nature lovers, you can hike out to one of the overnight hides overlooking the mineral licks. Wait patiently (with fingers crossed) for the chance to see the areas big mammals, like the endangered Malayan Tapir. The night-time jungle noises alone make heading out overnight a truly unforgettable experience. Although home to many amazing creatures, in reality, very few of the well-hidden mammals are spotted. But for bird enthusiasts, there’s lots to be seen. Lookout for Hornbills, Kingfishers, Pittas, Trogons, Broadbills, Asian Fairy Bluebirds and the Red-bearded Bee-eater. It’s these, reptiles and little creepy-crawlies that are most frequently found. But be aware of the mosquito’s and leeches that also frequent the area!

Tip : The monsoon season falls from November through January in this part of Peninsular Malaysia. So unless you want a really rainy rainforest experience, this time of year is probably best avoided.

5. Cameron Highlands

Escape Peninsular Malaysia’s often sweltering heat and head up into the cooler tea plantations, mossy forests and strawberry farms of the Cameron Highlands. We always loved taking groups up here, as it is so completely different to the rest of the region. The climate, colonial buildings and scones are probably not the first things you’d associate with Peninsular Malaysia! So it’s a surprise for many and makes for a very different experience to others had on the Malay Peninsula.

There’s so much to see and do in the Cameron Highlands and a lot can easily be arranged through budget friendly day trips. These tend to include tea estates visits, strawberry picking, exploring the mossy forest and even testing out your blowpipe skill in one of the Orang Asli Vilages. And if your visit coincides, you might even find the amazing Rafflesia flower, one of rarest and largest flowers in the world. If you want to get a little off track, take an independent hike along one of the 14 trails. We have done a few and there’s some lovely waterfalls and nice peaks to hike up to for great views if the weather permits!

Tip : The Cameron Highlands is very popular with local tourists and can get very busy on weekends and holiday periods. So for a really ‘chilled’ experience, these times are best avoided.

6. Kuala Lumpur

Without doubt KL is one of our favourite cities in the world and we’ll never tire of visiting Malaysia’s capital city. It has something for everyone, with all sorts of accommodation options, endless tourist attractions, amazing food and some of Asia’s best shopping. And with its cheap and super efficient transport network, exploring Malaysia’s biggest city couldn’t be easier. Of all the must-see places in Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is the one we just keep coming back to for more.

You can easily fill days in KL ticking off your bucket list of attractions and major landmarks. Here’s just a small selection not to be missed: Head up and across the Petronas Towers Skybridge; explore the KL Forest Eco Park; wander around Merdeka Square and Sultan Abdul Samad or just admire Kuala Lumpur’s awesome skyline from one of the cities many infinity pools. After a day of sightseeing, head to one of the cities endless eateries or great sky bars.

Don’t miss our blog: 12 OF OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO IN KUALA LUMPUR for more information on what to see and do in the Kuala Lumpur.

7. Melaka (Malacca)

Melaka rounds off our list of our 7 must-see places in Peninsular Malaysia. Once a quaint little place often bypassed by backpackers, Melaka has had a bit of a facelift in recent years and is now well and truly on the beaten path. Rich in cultural heritage, Melaka is something of a melting pot with colonial influences from the Portuguese, Dutch and British settlers blending in with traditional cultures of the Baba and Nyonya. And this diverse mix of the cultures has left not only great architecture, but some truly delicious food. Here’s just a few dishes we highly recommend – Hainanese Chicken Rice Balls, Nyona Sek Bak and the Tandoori Chicken from Pak Putra.

Melaka is a bit of bizarre mix of where old meets new, east meets west and culture meets… well something! For example you can cruise down the Melaka River with a historic building to one side, with colourful murals on the other, before passing under a flashing multicoloured neon light-covered bridge. Or you can speed through the old town in a pimped up Hello Kitty clad trishaw with Eminem blaring from its speakers. This mixture of influences, cultures and tourists has definitely resulted in a unique city with plenty of interesting experiences. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but well worth visiting to make up your own opinion.

Tip : The weekends get very busy with local and Singaporean tourists, so if you want a quiet visit, come on a week day. But if you want the full Melaka experience visit on a Friday to Sunday for the Jonker Street Night Market. 

So when planning your next trip through Southeast Asia, leave room on your itinerary for these 7 must-see places in Peninsular Malaysia. You won’t regret it! Peninsula Malaysia is such an easy, friendly and rewarding region to travel though.

Planning a visit to Malaysia? Check out our Malaysian blogs to help get you started!

Penang in a day – Our whistle-stop itinerary

12 of our favourite things to do in Kuala Lumpur

Perhentian Islands – The Ultimate Guide To Perhentian Kecil

Exploring Bako National Park – Malaysian Borneo

Kinabatangan River – Malaysian Borneo

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• 11 Incredible Places You Didnt...

11 Incredible Places You Didn't Know Existed in Malaysia

Popular spots in Malaysia such as A Famosa in Melaka , Penang Hill in Penang , and Batu Caves outside Kuala Lumpur are to be found on many travel itineraries. There are many hidden gems to be discovered in Malaysia though, from natural reserves to an island with a fascinating history. Here are some amazing places that you didn’t know that existed in Malaysia.

1. kek lok si temple.

Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest and most outstanding temples in Southeast Asia. The interior and exterior of temple halls, pagodas, and archways consist of detailed carvings, sculptures, and murals which represent Buddhist teachings and Chinese culture and rituals of daily life. The temple is one of the definitive heritage treasures of Mahayana Buddhism. Start by visiting the Tortoise Liberation Pond where you will see hundreds of tortoise swimming and relaxing in the pond by the temple entrance. Walk around the temple gardens and admire the three-tier Kek Lok Si Pagoda, with different architectural styles on each tier.

1000-L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia , +60 4-828 3317

Kek Lok Si Temple © Jorge Cancela/Flickr

2. Belum Rainforest

Together with Temenggor, Belum Rainforest has existed for more than 130 million years making this one of the world’s oldest rainforests. It is a protected rainforest next to Temenggor Lake, a home to a wide array of flora and fauna and indigenous people. Go on an adventure by hopping on the boat cruise across the Temenggor Lake or join the Belum Adventure Camp to take part in adrenaline activities such as high rope and zip line challenge. Catch sight of the beautiful birds while birdwatching at Royal Belum or go fishing on the lake. Stay for a few nights at the Belum Rainforest Resort to become at one with nature.

Belum Rainforest Resort: Pulau Banding, 33200 Gerik, Perak, Malaysia , +60 5-791 6800

Belum Rainforest © BlackCat Imaging/Shutterstock

3. Semporna

Church, Park

Located in Borneo, Semporna leads to Tun Sakaran Marine Park (an archipelago of eight islands) and Sipadan National Park where you go island-hopping and scuba diving in the beautiful coral reefs. Bajau Laut community, known as the Sea Gypsies, live their traditional lifestyle here, with their stilt houses built above the clear waters. Drop by to say hi to the sea creatures in the beautiful coral reefs while scuba diving – including Kapikan Reef and Church Reef. Hike along the Bohey Dulang Island trail to see the panoramic island views surrounded by turquoise waters, followed by a visit to the beautiful bird sanctuary. We recommend island hopping to discover all there is on offer here. You might also have an opportunity to chat with the locals.

Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia

Stilt houses above turquoise waters in Semporna © johnjodeery/Flickr

Sasaran Sky Mirror

Sasaran Sky Mirror is the Malaysia’s ‘Salar de Uyunni’, located off the coast of Jeram Fishing Village. The perfect view at Sasaran Sky Mirror occurs twice a month (full moon and new moon). You are required to book a tour to visit this site. We suggest booking with Sky Mirror Tour & Travel Sdn Bhd , which costs RM80 per person (USD20). It takes about an hour from Jeram Fishing Village to get there including a 30 minute boat ride. Once you reach this amazing place, step on to the sandy bank island and look at the waters to see your whole reflection. A great photo opportunity for you and your friends.

5. Kundasang

Kundansang is a quaint little town found behind Mount Kinabalu . An ideal way to explore the beautiful valley along the winding roads is hiring a car from an rental agency in Kota Kinabalu . Visit the Desa Dairy Farm to meet the cattle, be amazed with the view of Mount Kinabalu with its green pastures, learn how dairy food and drinks are produced, and quench your thirst with local dairy products including yoghurt and ice cream. Learn about Kundasang history at the Kundasang War Memorial with beautiful gardens. Don’t miss sampling other local products, including tea, wine, and pizza, at the markets and towns in the area.

Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia

Beautiful sky, mountains, and green pastures at Desa Dairy Farm © hkhtt hj/Shutterstock

6. Sekinchan

Take an hour’s drive to Sekinchan from Kuala Lumpur to enjoy the countryside and fishing village lifestyle. Soak in with the wide scenic views of paddy fields followed by making your wishes at the Wishing Tree. Visit the Paddy Processing Gallery to learn how the rice is produced with workers and technology. Stop by at N. 16 Café for your meals and coffee while enjoying the view of paddy fields. Drop by at the Bagan Fishing Village to learn about the fishermen’s daily lives. Don’t forget to savour delicious and affordable seafood dishes.

Sekinchan, 45400, Selangor, Malaysia

Wishing Tree in Sekinchan © Jnzl’s Photo/Flickr

7. Kenyir Lake

Kenyir Lake is the largest man-made lake, surrounding 340 islands, in Southeast Asia. There are 30 rivers connecting to the lake, 25 waterfalls, and it is home to about 25 fish species. The lake is near the luscious rainforests and limestone caves including Taman Negara. There are shuttle buses that take you to the lake from Terengganu’s Sultan Mahmud Airport. Explore the lake by boat or canoe and take in the breathtaking hilltops and highland views. Challenge yourself to some jungle trekking and visit the fish farm on the lake. Admire the wondrous multi-tiered Lasir Waterfall surrounded by rainforest canopy.

Kenyir Lake, Terengganu, Malaysia

Rainforest surrounding Kenyir Lake © Lexe-I/Flickr

Rainbow Waterfall

Hike through the forest to visit one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Malaysia. Catch glimpses of the mesmerising Rainbow Waterfall in the early morning as the sun seeps through the flowing waters. Follow the local tour guide – 4×4 pickup trucks will take you to the sandy hills to watch sunrise, going into the forest for 45 minutes, and walking through the trees and rocky paths for another 45 minutes. Reward your adventurous hike by dipping right beside the waterfall and soak in with the view of Rainbow Waterfall.

Rainbow Waterfall, Pahang, Malaysia

8. Tiga Island (Pulau Tiga)

Reality TV series Survivor fans may know that the contestants were sent to Pulau Tiga, known as the Survivor Island. Take a 40 minute boat ride from Kuala Penyu jetty. The island has wondrous flora and fauna, beaches, and marine life which provide exciting recreational activities for travellers to enjoy. Hike through the rainforest with different levels of trails, walk along the sandy beaches, and go snorkelling in the beautiful coral reefs. You can also enjoy a therapeutic experience at the mud volcanoes.

Pulau Tiga, Sabah, Malaysia

Reality TV series ‘Survivor’ was filmed at Tiga Island © travelling_louise/Flickr

9. Jerejak Island (Pulau Jerejak)

Known as The Alcatraz of Malaysia, this used to be a prison and quarantine center for criminals, immigrants, and tuberculosis and leprosy patients back in the late 1700s until 1993. Now, it has become a place to take in rich history and nature. Take a 20 minutes ferry ride at the Jerejak Ferry Terminal, Bayan Lepas – round trip costs RM25 (USD 6.20) for adults and RM16 (USD 4) for children. Get you adrenaline fix by taking part in bold activities including rock climbing, jungle trekking, and mountain biking. Explore the ruins within the jungles to discover the island’s history. Make arrangements for your visit at the Batu Uban Fishermen Jetty.

Pulau Jerejak, Penang, Malaysia

Sunset at Jerejak Island © Terence Wong/Shutterstock

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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