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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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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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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Top Destinations in Malaysia
Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations
The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia
The most popular places to visit in Malaysia are stunning — and the country's excellent infrastructure makes getting to them relatively painless.
Although Malaysia is always ranked well among the most visited countries in Asia, China usually steals the limelight and #1 spot. Long-term budget travelers often shun Malaysia as being "too expensive" (mostly because alcohol does cost more than in Thailand). Meanwhile, short-term vacationers in Southeast Asia seem to skip Malaysia for lack of time.
But Malaysia has a lot of beauty, diversity, and adventure on offer, as showcased by these tempting top destinations.
Kuala Lumpur
You'll most likely fly into Kuala Lumpur when traveling to Malaysia, so this one's a no-brainer. But unlike some other big cities in Asia where travelers arrive and get out of town as soon as possible, Kuala Lumpur is a worthwhile destination of its own.
The mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influence means you'll have no shortage of culinary exploits in Malaysia's capital city . The cultural diversity is a big part of Kuala Lumpur's allure. Take a short walk or jump on the extensive train network and you can see the delights of numerous cultures.
Kuala Lumpur has no shortage of unique neighborhoods to explore . Interesting sights such as the Petronas Towers , the Perdana Botanical Garden, and the Menara KL Tower provide plenty of enjoyable distractions before you head farther afield in Malaysia.
TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald
Malaysians are proud of their big island on the west coast — and they should be! The colonial city of Georgetown was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has plenty to offer in the way of museums, a seaside fort, historic homes, and most importantly, a famous street-food scene.
Numerous artists have left their marks in the form of murals along the streets of Georgetown. Cafes, shops, and things to do can be found dotted throughout.
Penang is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to sample delicious street food of all types. The waterfront esplanade known as Gurney Drive in Penang is lined with stalls and eateries for trying local Malay, Chinese, and Indian treats , among others.
The Perhentian Islands
Backpackers and budget travelers love Malaysia's Perhentian Islands , especially Perhentian Kecil — the smaller of the two islands — where fine sand and excellent snorkeling/diving fill the day before parties start at night.
Nearby Perhentian Besar — the big island — caters more to families, couples, and travelers who are willing to spend more to enjoy the blue water and skip some of the partying. Regardless of the island you choose, getting to the Perhentians requires taking a speedboat. There are a few challenges for setting up shop on the islands .
The Perhentian Islands are very seasonal . Accommodation can be difficult to find on Perhentian Kecil in July, the peak month, but the islands are mostly empty during the winter months due to rain and stormy seas.
Malaysian Borneo
The option to exchange dirty concrete for green rainforests and abundant wildlife is only a cheap, quick flight away ! Visitors to Malaysia often stick to the mainland and forget about the natural wonders on earth's third-largest island only a short hop away.
The Malaysian part of Borneo is divided into two states: Sarawak in the south and Sabah in the north. Both have different vibes and charms . The Rainforest World Music Festival held outside of Kuching each summer is one of the most exciting music-and-culture events in Southeast Asia.
From endangered orangutans to rainforest canopy walks and some of the best diving in the world, Malaysian Borneo should definitely be a part of any trip to Malaysia.
Spelled locally as "Melaka," Malaysia's Peranakan city of Malacca is a worthwhile stop for cultural, historical, and colonial sites . UNESCO even declared Malacca a World Heritage Site in 2008.
Visitors are rarely disappointed by the old town in Malacca. If nothing else, the relaxed vibe is pleasant enough to keep people around for a few days. The close proximity to Kuala Lumpur makes getting there by bus easy. Train isn't an option in Malacca.
Tip: Many shops and museums close in Malacca on Tuesdays — plan your visit accordingly!
Taman Negara
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Taman Negara literally means "national park" in Malay, and well, that's what it is! Taman Negara is Malaysia's oldest national park and is considered to be one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests. A long canopy walkway gives visitors a chance to see life high in the trees that normally isn't visible from the ground.
You can enjoy waterfalls and beautiful trekking, bird spotting, rafting, fishing, night safaris, and there's even a chance to see wild elephants — if you're very lucky. Tourists sleep across the river in Kuala Tahan and then take cheap boats to the park entrance.
Some serious guided trekking is available in Taman Negara as is caving.
Cameron Highlands
Malaysia's green Cameron Highlands are one of the few places in Southeast Asia where you'll actually want a jacket or warm blanket at night. After sweating across tropical climates, you may appreciate the change of climate.
The Cameron Highlands are like nowhere else in Malaysia. You'll see plenty of lush scenery, tour beautiful tea plantations, and enjoy access to decent hiking trails that weave through plantations and around volcanoes.
Strawberry farms, butterfly gardens, and flower greenhouses are all enjoyable distractions to be found in the Cameron Highlands. The climate provides good conditions for growing fresh vegetables and producing delicious local honey.
Tioman Island
Located on Malaysia's east coast not too far from Singapore, Tioman Island is a different kind of island destination . Accommodation and excellent diving are surprisingly inexpensive; development is relatively minimal for such a nice island. Abundant nature and scenery make up for the island's severe shortcomings in the culinary department.
Tioman is carved into many different beaches; you'll have to choose when arriving by boat. Some beaches are secluded and surrounded by jungle. ABC Beach is arguably the most popular beach, particularly for budget travelers. Moving between beaches by boat is the regular option, unless you're up for a jungle hike through the interior.
Tioman Island enjoys duty-free status just as Langkawi does, but don't even consider taking your tax-free liquor across the border into Singapore !
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Located off the northwest corner of Malaysia, Pulau Langkawi is one of the top island destinations in Malaysia for both foreign tourists and Malaysians.
With an airport and ferries connecting it to the mainland, as well as a large tourist infrastructure, Langkawi could unfairly be called Malaysia's version of Phuket, the busiest island in Thailand.
Langkawi has many tourist attractions on offer such as Malaysia's largest indoor aquarium, a cable car, and the Sky bridge that allows views across the island. Unfortunately, the drone of jet skis cause the busiest beaches to be less serene. Duty-free status means that beer is sometimes barely more expensive than bottled water!
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi can be found for as cheap as US $20! Getting to the island is fast and inexpensive .
Selangor actually describes Malaysia's most developed and populated state that leads up to Kuala Lumpur's urban sprawl. Here you'll find a Formula One racetrack, the National Zoo of Malaysia, and enormous theme parks including an indoor snow park.
Selangor is busy and booming; shopping malls sprawl in many directions. When you can't possibly shop anymore, head to the nearby Genting Highlands — Malaysia's version of Vegas perched on top of a mountain. The First World Hotel and Plaza is the world's largest hotel with 10,500 rooms and a theme park.
But Selangor isn't just about concrete and glowing signs: The famous Batu Caves there are a Hindu shrine with the largest statue of Lord Murugan (the god of war) in the world. The Batu Caves draw large crowds, especially during the Thaipusam holiday .
When you're ready to be wooed by nature, the abundance of fireflies along the river in Kuala Selangor is a dazzling spectacle worth seeing!
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12 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia
If countries were awarded for diversity, Malaysia would top first place. Not only is Malaysia a melting pot of ethnic cultures, but it is also a blend of many different customs, cuisines and religions all coexisting peacefully together. From large island groups to mountains, fertile highlands and tropical rainforest, the country’s geography is every bit as diverse.
What’s more, Malaysia is a unique country in that is divided into two main landmasses. West Malaysia occupies the southern half of a peninsula shared with Thailand, while across the South China Sea is East Malaysia, situated on the Borneo island. This list of the best places to visit in Malaysia concentrates on the cultural, historic and natural attractions combined. For an insight in Malaysia’s most popular islands & beaches have a look at the best island in Malaysia .
12. Kota Bharu
Often used as a stopover by many travelers visiting the beautiful Perhentian Islands, Kota Bharu offers its own unique charm, attractions, shopping and cuisine. Located in Peninsular Malaysia near the Thailand border, Kota Bharu is the capital of the Kelantan State , a city easy to get around in.
Kota Bharu is well known for its many museums covering the history, culture and heritage of Kelantan. One of the most popular museums is the Royal Museum , which offers a peek into the state’s royal family through many photographs and lavish artifacts. The Museum of Royal Traditions and Ceremonies is worth a visit just to see the unique timber palace it is housed within.
Much of Kota Bharu life revolves around the city’s bustling marketplaces of which the Central Market is the largest. Surrounded by coffee shops and busy streets dotted with old trishaws, the Central Market is teeming in local women working food stands and selling colorful fruits and vegetables.
Outside the city limits, the beach at Pantai Cahaya Bulan and the Mount Stong State Park offer outdoor activities such as swimming, river cruises, rafting and cave exploring. Scuba diving is available at the site of a Japanese shipwreck from the Pacific War.
11. Sipadan
Malaysia’s only oceanic island, Sipadan lies off the east coast of Borneo, surrounded by the tropical waters of the Celebes Sea . Formed over millennia out of living coral reefs, it is now a mecca for scuba divers , who come to explore one of the world’s richest marine habitats.
There are a dazzling array of dives for visitors to choose from; some take you through atmospheric underwater tunnels and caverns and others past steep coral walls and spiraling shoals of fish. Swirling about the island are all manner of marine life , with sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays spotted here and there.
As the island has been closed since 2004 to protect its beautiful beaches and underwater riches, it is only accessible by boat from Mabul and Kapalai, both of which lie nearby. Once fought over by Malaysia and Indonesia, Sipadan is now one of the best dive destinations in the world.
Commanding an important position on the busy sea route between India and China on West Malaysia’s southwestern coast, Melaka was ruled and battled over for centuries between Indian, Portuguese, British and Dutch governments. As a result, this modern day Malaysian city is now a popular tourist destination packed with architecture, culture, traditions and cuisine all reflecting its rich heritage.
Known as a cultural melting pot, Melaka comprises several districts that all feature their own distinct attractions. The Portuguese Settlement is characterized by charming villas, historic churches and the remains of an old fort. In the Chinese quarter is Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, as well as one of the largest Chinese cemeteries outside the country of China.
The Dutch district features some of the oldest Dutch architecture in the East. Additionally, each cultural zone features its own traditions and festivals such as the Portuguese “Intrudu” and Chinese New Year.
9. Cameron Highlands
Providing a cool escape from the heat of the lowlands, the Cameron Highlands in the Titiwangsa Mountains are one of Malaysia’s oldest tourist destinations . Developed with an English garden charm, this beautiful tableland offers lush scenery, tea plantations, forests, lakes, wildlife and outdoor recreation.
Although lying in considerable distances from one another, several towns and settlements also dot the area, offering lodging, colorful markets and museums such as the Time Tunnel Gallery, which showcases the history, people and development of the Camerons. The most popular of these towns are Brinchang and Tanah Rata.
As Malaysia’s chief tea and flower producer, the Cameron Highlands abounds in sprawling tea plantations and flower gardens as well as vegetable farms, fruit orchards, butterfly gardens and honey bee farms. Many of these establishments are open to the public. Several pictorial golf courses are available for golfers.
A scenic car drive to Malaysia’s highest point, Mount Brinchang , presents spectacular views, while the Mossy Forest features a boardwalk through untouched trees and plants as well as glimpses of birds, animals, reptiles and insects. Well-marked jungle trails lead hikers to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic overlooks.
8. Kota Kinabalu
The capital of the Sabah State in Malaysian Borneo , Kota Kinabalu is a fast-growing tourist destination due to its close proximity to tropical islands, rainforests, wildlife refuges, national parks and Malaysia’s tallest peak, Mount Kinabalu.
Commonly called KK by locals, Kota Kinabalu has a small city center, boasting a number of landmarks, memorials and an observatory, which offers splendid views of the city.
Most of KK’s main attractions lie outside of the city such as Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre and Kinabalu National Park , which offer wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, orangutans and elephants as well as outdoor adventure like jungle trekking, mountain climbing , whitewater rafting and river cruises.
Just minutes from the city, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park features five small islands that are ideal for diving, swimming and sailing. A visit to the Monsopiad Cultural Village is a must-do to experience the traditions and culture of the Kadazan indigenous tribe and to see the trophy skulls claimed by a legendary warrior more than 300 years ago.
7. Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are a small group of beautiful, coral-fringed islands off the coast of northeastern Malaysia, not far from the Thai border. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (“Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Perhentian”). Kecil attracts more travellers as it has cheaper accommodation, while Besar is a little more expensive and caters more to families and those who want to avoid the backpacker party scene.
The Perhentian Islands offer some great diving and excellent snorkeling . In addition to coral and fish, the Perhentians are home to sea turtles and several species of shark. The islands are also crisscrossed by small paths connecting one beach to another, but be prepared to sweat and swat off bugs if you tackle any of these.
There is very little luxury accommodation on the Perhentian islands. with the top of the line being air-conditioned chalets and the bottom being a bunk in a longhouse. Discounts are usually negotiable in the off season but the better accommodation can get snapped up fast especially on weekends and holidays.
The largest city on Borneo Island , Kuching is a popular base for exploring Borneo’s rainforest and the state of Sarawak. However, Kuching offers plenty for tourists to see and do during their stay, from sightseeing historic landmarks to bustling markets and outdoor recreation.
Kuching presents a unique setting with its skyscrapers and modern architecture surrounded by lush jungle. The city is situated on the banks of the Sarawak River with a beautifully landscaped waterfront offering views of historic landmarks such as Fort Margherita and Astana palace as well as impressive modern structures like the DUN complex.
The busy waterfront is where tourists will find an array of food vendors, musical fountains, an observation tower, an open-air theater and a number of river cruise operations.
A walk down Kuching’s oldest street, Main Bazaar, reveals historic Chinese temples, markets and many antique and handicraft shops. Numerous museums in the city exhibit local history and art works, while an aquarium displays fish species from the Sarawak River .
Distinct for its umbrella-shaped roof, the Kuching Civic Center contains a planetarium and a viewing platform presenting outstanding aerial views. Picturesque gardens and nearby national parks all offer waterfalls, wildlife and recreational activities like jungle trekking and cave exploring.
Located in the Strait of Malacca off West Malaysia’s northwestern coast, Penang Island is a popular tourist destination due to its historic George Town and rich culinary diversity. Its position along one of the world’s most traveled shipping routes has infused Penang with a colorful array of cultures, architecture and cuisine.
Whether by car or public buses, Penang Island should be explored to see and experience its many attractions like the Botanic Gardens, Bird Sanctuary, Butterfly Park and the white sandy beaches of Batu Ferringhi along the north coast. Numerous temples dot the island including the must-see Snake Temple with its viper residents and the huge Temple of Supreme Bliss.
Formerly a leper and prison colony, Jerejak Island , on Penang’s southeastern tip, is now a tropical paradise offering outdoor adventure as well as spa and pampering services.
No visit to Penang would be complete without a trishaw ride or walk around the island’s capital city, George Town , to see its British colonial architecture and historic Chinese and Indian temples. Additionally, George Town is filled with markets, restaurants and bars. Also not to miss here is Little India , a district rife with aromatic spices and lively Bollywood music.
Widely regarded as Malaysia’s food capital, Penang is famous for it culinary mixture of all the world’s major cuisines, making it a unique cuisine in and of itself. Delicious choices abound from upscale seafood restaurants to Chinese Dim Sum stalls, bakeries and roadside vendors serving the local specialty, Char Koay Teow, a stir-fried dish of rice noodles, cockles and bean sprouts.
4. Kuala Lumpur
Less than 200 year ago, Kuala Lumpur was just a quiet tin-mining town in West Malaysia. Today, this same sleepy village has flourished into the country’s federal capital and largest metropolis .
Commonly called KL by locals, this vibrant city is a cultural melting pot, noted for its impressive skyscrapers and buzzing scenes of shopping , dining and nightlife. When compared to other major world cities, KL is one of the more affordable travel destinations.
See also: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur
Like many large cities, Kuala Lumpur suffers from heavy traffic, so getting around is best by monorail. From sightseeing historic landmarks and British colonial buildings in the Old City to viewing the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in the modern district, and browsing the colorful street stalls in Chinatown , there is no shortage of things to see and do in KL .
3. Taman Negara
Encompassing three states across the northern part of West Malaysia, Taman Negara is reputed to be the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. A popular ecotourism and adventure destination, this national park is teeming in in wildlife from rare plants to exotic birds and scarce animals like the Malayan Tiger, Asian elephant and Sumatran Rhinoceros.
Most visitors access Taman Negara through the town of Kuala Tahan , which is located across the river from the national park headquarters. From the visitor’s center, jungle hikes and other adventures can be arranged.
There are a variety of exciting ways to experience the park’s natural attractions such as hiking, fishing and cave-exploring. One of the most popular things to do is in Taman Negara the Canopy Walk, a long suspension bridge high above the treetops where visitors can walk and glimpse exotic birds.
Guided night safaris are also available to see plants that only bloom at night, glow-in-the-dark fungi and nocturnal creatures like owls, leopard cats and water dragons. Climbing Teresek Hill also provides opportunities to see rare birds, wild boars and beautiful panoramic views.
Visiting the settlements of indigenous groups, known Orang Asli , are worthwhile to learn about their traditions and tips for surviving in the jungle. For food choices, the floating restaurants along Kula Tahan’s riverside are not to be missed.
2. Langkawi
Located off Malaysia’s northwestern coast in the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands boasting picturesque beaches, rainforest, mangroves and forest-clad mountains, making it one of Malaysia’s most popular destination.
In recent years, hotels , restaurants and other tourist facilities have developed in Langkawi, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the archipelago’s exceptional natural beauty.
By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 65,000, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. The island’s natural splendor is its number one attraction .
Beaches offer powdery white sands, crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs and water sports. The most popular beach, Pantai Cenang , is busy with restaurants and bars. The beaches of Pantai Tengah and Pantai Kok are more isolated, offering peace and tranquility.
Several protected parks offer jungle trekking and mangrove tours where visitors can experience breathtaking views of the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and exotic birds and animals like monitor lizards and macaque monkeys.
Gunung Raya and Gunung Mat Cincang are Langkawi’s tallest mountains with lookout points presenting outstanding views of the area and across to Thailand . Gondola rides and the SkyBridge are fun ways to ascend the mountains and survey the surrounding beauty.
1. Gunung Mulu National Park
Famous for its extraordinary limestone karst formations and phenomenal cave systems, the Gunung Mulu National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in all of Southeast Asia.
Located in Malaysian Borneo in the Sarawak State, this national park features some of the largest and longest cave systems in the world. Included in these is the world’s largest cave chamber, the Sarawak Chamber , which is estimated large enough to hold 40 Boeing 747 aircraft.
Situated among rainforest, crystal-clear rivers, rugged mountains and deep ravines, the park’s other remarkable features include the Pinnacles , a concentration of pointed, limestone spires, a karst sinkhole known as the Garden of Eden , and two majestic peaks, Gunung Mulu and Gunung Api.
The park is also home to a number of wildlife species such as hornbills, bats, gibbons, barking deer and bearded pigs. In addition to guided cave tours and hiking, a popular activity here is walking high above the treetops along the world’s longest canopy walk.
Because Gunung Mulu National Park is located in a remote area, the best way to access it is by air into the Mulu Airport . However, it is also possible to reach it by a combination of road, boat and hiking from Miri, although this can take many hours or days. Arrangements with tour guides will provide transportation and lodging.
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Reader interactions.
June 2, 2019 at 11:00 pm
I’ve been to Langkawi island, Cameron highlands and KL city. Its a really good experience to visit Malaysia.
December 9, 2017 at 7:47 pm
Great recommendations. I am surprised that Kota Bharu made it to your list – it’s just a bit unusual. But I am more surprised that Terengganu and its gorgeous islands such as Perhentian and Redang didn’t make it. Disclaimer: I am from Terengganu.
April 23, 2016 at 6:52 am
Kilim Geo Park in langkawi is a great place to visit
November 21, 2015 at 1:25 am
Thanks for nice article! Can you tell about some unexplored places to visit in Malaysia which are less crowded.
September 5, 2015 at 10:27 pm
I’VE been to langkawi twice. Never forget the 7 wells, cable car, pulau datang bunting and pulau beras basah, bukit monyet @westin resort. Beautiful. I recommend u all.
June 5, 2015 at 3:33 pm
Thanks a lot for this exhaustive list! Looking forward to experiencing Malaysia!
February 20, 2014 at 8:36 pm
I have been to Kuala Lumpur, and the city is stunning. There’s a place near KLCC where i went for batik painting workshop. Batik is one of the most important traditional handicrafts in Malaysia. The place is called MyBatik, and i had a really relaxing and good time there with my family.
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Must Places to Visit in Malaysia
Petronas twin towers.
The twin skyscraper in Malaysia held the rank of the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004 and is currently known as the tallest twin tower in the world. The twin tower KL features diamond – faceted façade containing 83,500 stainless steel extrusions. The towers' interior highlights Malaysia's culture and inspires people through traditional aspects like carvings and fabric.
Top Experiences To Do in Petronas Twin Towers
Langkawi Cable Car
Langkawi Cable car is also known as the Sky Cab claims to be the steepest cable car ride in the world; that takes visitors at a height of 708 meters up in the sky, above the sea level. The cable car carries passengers to Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest peak and thus is considered as one of the must-visit Langkawi attractions. On a visit here, tourists are advised to carry a jacket as the elevation in height invites chilled winds. The views from the top of this peak make getting onto this ride absolutely worth it and memorable. Location: Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Kedah Timings: 9:30 am to 7 pm on all days Must Experience: Snorkeling Tours in Langkawi Click Here to Book: Langkawi Cable Car Tickets
Langkawi Sky Bridge
Situated at a staggering height of 2,170 feet and hanging in between the two mountains, the Langkawi sky bridge, as the name suggests, makes you witness Malaysian beauty from heavenly heights. You can reach this bridge after ending your sky cab ride, only to witness more enchanting views of the forests and mountains. Stretching up to 410 feet with transparent sections, this bridge gives you a rush of adrenaline with a feeling of almost standing in the sky!
Top Experiences To Do in Langkawi Sky Bridge
Discover Menara Kuala Lumpur, the iconic tower soaring above Kuala Lumpur's skyline. Admire the breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes from its observation deck. Uncover the architectural marvel and cultural significance of this landmark, a symbol of Malaysia's progress and modernity. A must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience the panoramic vistas and immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of Kuala Lumpur from the heights of Menara Kuala Lumpur.
Top Experiences To Do in Menara
Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Beat the heat of Kuala Lumpur and hop in for an extraordinary experience at the magical theme park of Sunway Lagoon. With six different zones featuring thrilling bungee jumping rides to classic turbulence water slides, you are in for a treat. Experience the best of 5D cinematic movies at the waterpark and tune in for a gripping slingshot ride at x park lagoon.
Top Experiences To Do in Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Aquaria KLCC
The Aquaria KLCC is said to be the world’s largest aquarium, holding over 5000 freshwater and marine creatures, which include massive arapaimas, giant groupers, garfishes and many more. Some of the major attractions of the aquarium are the scary tiger sharks, bright coral fishes, lethal sea snakes, seahorses, and blue rays.
The Aquaria KLCC is one of the foremost tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur involving the real depth and complexity. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia.
Location : The Aquaria KLCC is located on the concourse of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center.
Price : The entry fee approximately starts from 64 MYR for an adult and 53 MYR for a child. Check out Now: Aquaria KLCC Ticket Price
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Langkawi
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a group of five different islands, which include Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug. There are various beach activities that the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes. However, all these beach activities require a prior booking and it is one of the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.
You can also indulge in various water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the beautiful coral and marine life of the island. The island tours can be booked on the spot from where you will take your ferries.
Location: The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is just 20 minutes boat ride from the Kota Kinabalu.
How To Reach: The Jesselton Jetty ferry terminal consistently operates the boats to the Island, which takes around 20 minutes to reach there.
Price: The approximate cost for the complete tour starts from 53 MYR per adult.
Timings: 8.30 AM to 5 PM Here is the List of Best Things to Do in Langkawi Suggested Read: Things to Do in Malaysia
Bako National Park, Kuching
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Melaka Historic City
Cameron Highlands
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Langkawi Island
Batu Caves, Selangor
The Batu Caves is located in the Selangor region of Malaysia. It has one of the famous Hindu shrines. The shine is of Lord Murugan resides in these caves. A lot of tourists visit this place as it is a religious site. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerizing.
This area has innumerable caves that are that are home to many species of animals and insects. This area has many monkeys that often snatch away things from the tourist. The caves are said to be of the 10th century that has slowly developed. The caves are protected by the Malaysian Nature Society.
There are many transportation facilities available to these caves like trains buses etc from Kuala Lumpur. The most famous festival of the Batu caves is Thaipusam festival. This is one of the ideal Hindu religious places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur. Click Here to Book: Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves Day Tour or Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur Also Check: Best Beaches in Malaysia
Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi
Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak
Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Pulau Perhentian Besar
Taman Negara, Pahang
Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak
The Perhentian Islands
Sungai Kinabatangan, Borneo Island
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Penang Hill, Penang
Tioman Island
Sipadan Island
Shangri-La's Orangutan Care Project, Kota Kinabalu
If you are a wildlife enthusiast and love exploring new places, which promote wildlife and its conservation, Shangri-La’s Orangutan Care Project is one that you cannot miss. The project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of Orangutans and it is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.
It allows the common people to get the deeper insights into the lives of these amazing creatures. You can spend quality time with the Orangutans, get very close to them and even take memorable snapshots.
During your tour, you will be acquainted about the lives of Orangutan through the short videos, both before and after the tour. After the video, you are escorted to the feeding platform, where you are allowed to feed these lovely Orangutans.
The complete duration of the tour is around 1-2 hours. The excitement of the tour burgeons especially when your children accompany with you. Apart from the Orangutans, you also get to see a few more varieties of monkeys inside the care project.
Location: The Orangutan Care Project is located at Pantai Dalit Tuaran in Kota Kinabalu. You May Also Like: Activities in Langkawi Click Here to Checkout & Book: Hop on Hop off KL Price
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A ride on a cable car takes tourists to Langkawi Sky Bridge - a true highlight of the region, elevated at a height of 2300 feet above sea level. From the top of this bridge, the mesmerising views of the rainforest along with the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls make sure to leave visitors spellbound.It attracts nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here, tourists can also indulge in some shopping at the number of stalls that sell souvenirs, toys, drinks, and snacks. The bridge certainly is one of the top Langkawi tourist attractions.Location: At the end of the cable car, alan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau, Langkawi, KedahTimings: 10 am to 10 pmClick Here to Book: Langkawi Cable Car TicketsAlso Read: Things to Do in LangkawiClick Here to book Petrosains Tickets
Dataran Lang, known as eagle square is yet another commonly visited destination amongst many other famous Langkawi places to visit. It has gained popularity for holding the huge sculpture of an eagle, which is considered to be one of the best manmade creations in Langkawi. The statue of the eagle is postured like it is ready to fly and can be spotted from various points in Pulau. To see this 12 meters statue, along with the views of Kuah Bay, tourists have to ride on a ferry.The miniature terraces, footbridges, fountains, eateries all together here make this place apt for a fun-filled day visit trip, enjoyable by all age groups. From eagle square, the view of numerous ferries plying in the ocean has also been appreciated by everybody who has ever visited!Location: Southeast corner of Pulau Langkawi, Kuah JettyTimings: 24 hours a day, every dayAlso Checkout & Book: Petronas Towers TicketsPopular Read: Things to Do in Langkawi
As one decides to simply stroll through the paths of Langkawi wildlife park and bird paradise, indigenous birds meet along the way. For a closer look, tourists can visit the large enclosed bird-rooms where these numerous species stretch their wings and offer a chance for greater interaction. This would be one of the best tourist places in Langkawi.The park offers services of a guide which tourists can take for better understanding of the park’s wildlife, animals - their habits, patterns, diversity, etc. Here, tourists can buy food for the animals and feed them too!Location: Lot 1485, Jalan Ayer Hangat, Kampung Belanga Pecah, KedahTimings: 8;30 am to 6 pm on all daysSuggested For You: Places to Visit in MalaysiaClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park TicketsClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park Tickets
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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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20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots
Malaysia sits between Singapore and Thailand, literally and on the scale of how easy it is to travel.
The country is divided into two main regions, Peninsular Malaysia on the west, composed of Kuala Lumpur & nearby states.
And, East Malaysia, composed of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo Island.
You can enjoy many of Southeast Asia’s best heritage cities, natural spots, food havens and urban experiences in Peninsular Malaysia.
Kuala Lumpur offers direct connections from major cities in Asia & beyond. It’s the primary hub of AirAsia, so finding cheap flights shouldn’t be hard to come by. There’s also the option to a bus or train and cross the border from/to Singapore easily within a day. Once you’ve arrived, getting to main tourist spots is convenient by land or air.
Venture to East Malaysia for the best beaches, diving & trekking. It is home to Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in archipelagic Southeast Asia (outside of Papua) as well as many beautiful off-shore islands.
Is Malaysia on your bucketlist? Inspire your trip with these must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.
1. Kuala Lumpur
Location : Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .
Kuala Lumpur is definitely worth exploring if ever you’re visiting Malaysia. The capital city’s urban landscape, dominated by iconic KL Tower and Petronas Towers, is dotted with grand heritage buildings, worthwhile museums, well-maintained parks, revered temples, and mosques.
How to go :
Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), the main flight gateway to Malaysia. It’s one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the world with direct flights to tourist hubs in Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, South Asia and major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Major airlines include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Lion Air, Malindo Air & Firefly. The airport is 30 minutes to 1 hour south of the city center by land. You can take the train, bus or private car.
From the Philippines, go on a flight to Kuala Lumpur on AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Malaysia Airlines. Travel time takes nearly 4 hours. Flights to KL are also available from Clark, Cebu & Kalibo.
Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials
Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares
Top discounts
KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket
Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)
Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)
Malaysia Travel Essentials:
Where to stay in Malaysia (click below to see rates and book online) |
Malaysia Fares & Transport
Malaysia Tours & Discounts
Malaysia WIFI/SIM Card
See also : Places to Visit in Malaysia | Kuala Lumpur Itinerary | Singapore Travel Guide .
To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.
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2. Penang & Georgetown
Location : Penang, Malaysia (Peninsular) . Save on Google Maps .
Food in Georgetown, Penang is widely known as the best throughout the country and is reason enough to visit. It’s definitely my favorite place to visit in Malaysia. There is no place in Southeast Asia that can match its satisfying mix of old-world cosmopolitan heritage, relaxed feel, exotic allure, and lush natural landscapes.
Georgetown & Penang Island is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Penang International Airport (PEN) serves frequent direct flights KL, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Taipei & many domestic destinations in Malaysia including Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi, and Kota Bharu. Popular airlines include AirAsia, Malindo Air, Malaysia Airlines, Tigerair, Jetstar & Cathay Dragon. You can also reach Georgetown by bus/train/car, after a 4 to 6-hour land trip from Kuala Lumpur.
Penang Travel Essentials
Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing
THE TOP Komtar Penang
The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket
Location : Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Melaka (Malacca) is a former Portuguese-colonial trading port conveniently located between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. If you’re traveling to both cities by land, this heritage and food destination is worth a stopover.
Melaka is easy to reach by land from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The bus ride from Kuala Lumpur usually takes 2 to 3 hours. If you’re coming from Singapore, travel may take between 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoints.
Melaka Travel Essentials
4. Langkawi
Location : Kedah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
If you’ve been to the best beaches in the Philippines and Thailand, Langkawi’s natural scenery is probably not going to blow you away. That said, it still is a stunning place to visit with worthwhile things to keep you busy for a day or two. What I like about Langkawi the most is that is easy to travel yet remains approachable and largely underdeveloped. It’s also one of the few tax-free islands in Malaysia where you can enjoy duty-free shopping.
Langkawi is one hour north of Kuala Lumpur by flight. Langkawi International Airport (LGK) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Penang, Guangzhou & Shenzhen, operated by AirAsia, Tigerair, SilkAir, Malindo Air & Malaysia Airlines. If you want to go by land & ferry, ride a bus or train from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis (6 to 8 hours travel time). Then, ride a ferry to Kuah in Langkawi Island. The sea journey takes around 1 to 2 hours. You can also arrive in Langkawi on a direct ferry from Penang or Satun in Thailand.
Langkawi Travel Essentials
Shared Ferry Transfers Between Langkawi and Koh Lipe
Ferry Ticket between Koh Lipe and Langkawi by Hi Lipe
Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)
5. Putrajaya
Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Putrajaya is home to many of Malaysia’s most impressive monuments. Here, you’ll find grand mosques, government buildings, and iconic bridges surrounded by manicured parks and a 600-hectare lake. It can be reached on an easy day trip from Kuala Lumpur or on a drive-by to the airport.
Putrajaya is easy to visit from Kuala Lumpur. It is located between KL city centre and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You can go by train on the KLIA Transit or by bus. Travel time may take as quick as 30 minutes or up to 1 hour depending on the traffic.
Putrajaya Travel Essentials
Where to stay Tours + discounts
6. Legoland & Johor Bahru
Location : 7, Jalan Legoland, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Legoland Malaysia is one reason to visit Johor Bahru, located just across the causeway from Singapore. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and features many cool attractions including a Lego-themed water park, Lego-themed hotel, and impressive miniature recreations of many of Asia’s best-known landmarks.
Most travelers visit Legoland & Johor Bahru on a day trip from Singapore. Travel time usually takes 1.5 hours to 3 hours depending on the queue at the Singapore-Malaysia immigration checkpoint. If you’re traveling from abroad, Johor Bahru-Senai International Airport (JHB) serves direct flights from Bangkok, Guangzhou, Ho Chi Minh, Jakarta, Surabaya & Shenzen. Fly with AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Sichuan Airlines or Spring Airlines. You can also reach Johor Bahru by bus or train from Kuala Lumpur. The travel time is 4 to 6 hours.
Johor Bahru Travel Essentials
Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket
Legoland & Hello Kitty Town Transfers
7. Kota Kinabalu
Location : Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Kota Kinabalu is a bustling yet laid-back city in Sabah, East Malaysia known as a gateway to Borneo’s amazing natural sites including Mount Kinabalu, Mulu Caves National Park, diving spots, and pristine jungles.
From the Philippines, you can fly direct to Kota Kinabalu from Manila on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. Flight duration is 2 hours.
Kota Kinabalu is 2 hours and 30 minutes easy of Kuala Lumpur by plane. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) serves flights from KL, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tokyo and many domestic destinations in Malaysia. Major airlines include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines & Malindo Air.
Kota Kinabalu Travel Essentials
Kota Kinabalu Sunset and City Night Dinner Cruise with Complimentary Drinks
Kota Kinabalu City Half Day Tour
Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring
On My Bucketlist
8. Mount Kinabalu
Location : Ranau near Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
9. Cameron Highlands
Location : 39000, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
10. Perhentian Islands
Location : Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
11. Redang Island
Location : Pulau Redang, 21090 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
12. Sipadan Island
13. Tioman Island
Location : Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
14. Genting Highlands
15. Mulu Caves
Location : Sarawak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Location : Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Ipoh Travel Essentials
17. Kuching & Sarawak
18. Sandakan
19. Pahang Taman Negara
Location : 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Pahang Travel Essentials
Where to stay Check Fares
20. Bukit Tinggi
Location : 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .
Beyond Malaysia
Location : Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .
Singapore Travel Essentials
Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket
Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)
Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .
Thailand Travel Essentials
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket
Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise
Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket
What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Malaysia that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!
Places to visit in Malaysia
Malaysia tourist spots, things to do in Malaysia, where to go in Malaysia & more.
Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.
Book your way to Malaysia
How much does it cost to travel to Malaysia? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:
Where to Stay in Malaysia
Click below & search recommended Malaysia hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your min/max price , travel dates, and sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.
Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.
Malaysia Essentials & Top Discounts
Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.
Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:
Japan SIM card Pocket WIFI See all discounts
Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:
Kuala Lumpur Airport Train Ticket (KLIA Ekspres)
KL Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass
Click below to see more on:
Don’t Stop Here
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Don’t leave yet. There’s more!
Discover more blogs and travel tips in:
- Kuala Lumpur
- Kota Kinabalu
- Johor Bahru
- Southeast Asia
Find more posts about:
- Best Travel
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December 11, 2015 at 4:09 am
How much po ba dpat ang show money sa airport for them to allow u to leave? Im gona stay in malaysia for 3 weeks
December 11, 2015 at 1:48 pm
There’s no set amount that’s required to be shown at the airport. You just have to justify that you have enough money to spend on your whole trip, depending on your budget. If your budget is P1,500 per day, for example, you simply need to have at least P31,500 on your bank account. It also helps to have extra, to show them you are able to pay for unforeseen expenses, like emergencies or last-minute flights.
November 20, 2018 at 1:30 pm
So many great destination ideas! Even though I have already had mine, I still like to get to know some nice destinations, even for holidays with my wife. I would also add one more place that we really like to visit, Bali in Indonesia
January 28, 2019 at 4:03 pm
Wow! Such a great resource you have here! Been in love with Malaysia since day 1 of our visit. The beaches and culture is outstanding! Sooo looking forward to our comeback. Wonderful guide! Kudos!
December 5, 2019 at 2:15 pm
The most famous places to be visited in Malaysia especially Kuala Lumpur is Twin Tower, KL Tower, Dataran Merdeka and many more.
May 5, 2020 at 8:35 pm
There are so many great places in Malaysia, it’s so hard to choose the best! Awesome round up :)
October 4, 2021 at 11:59 pm
You summed it all up in one post. Great coverage and definitely great recommendations.
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Discover 20 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 2023
Malaysia is a country that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving tourism industry. Its unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences has created a vibrant and diverse culture in its cuisine, architecture, and festivals. From the bustling cities of Kuala Lumpur and Penang to the tranquil rainforests of Taman Negara and the beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers something for every type of traveler.
In this article, we will highlight the 20 best places to visit in Malaysia in 2023, providing you with an ultimate travel guide to plan your trip. Whether you want to explore the country's rich history and heritage, immerse yourself in its stunning natural landscapes, or simply relax on its beautiful beaches, we've got you covered. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the best that Malaysia has to offer.
Top 20 places To Visit In Malaysia In 2023
1. kuala lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, which offer breathtaking views of the cityscape from its observation deck. Other popular attractions include the Batu Caves, the Merdeka Square, and the vibrant night markets.
You May Also Like to Read: Explore Kuala Lumpur: Attractions, Activities, And More
2. George Town
George Town, located on the island of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a melting pot of cultures. It is known for its colorful street art, colonial architecture, and delicious food. Visitors can stroll along the historic streets and sample the local cuisine, including everything from Indian curries to Chinese noodles.
You May Also Like to Read: Exploring George Town In Penang: Malaysia's Pearl Of Orient
3. Langkawi
Langkawi is a group of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is a popular destination for water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and exploring the island's lush rainforest.
You May Also Like to Read: Explore the Tropical Paradise of Langkawi: Reasons To Visit
Malacca is a historic city on the west coast of Malaysia, known for its rich heritage and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the city's museums, galleries, and temples or stroll along the famous Jonker Street night market.
5. Cameron Highlands
The Cameron Highlands is a picturesque hill station in the heart of Malaysia's tea country. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea plantations, sample the locally grown tea, or hike through the lush forests and rolling hills.
6. Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, located on the island of Borneo, is a vibrant city known for its stunning sunsets and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and galleries or take a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling and diving.
7. Taman Negara
Taman Negara is a vast national park in the heart of Malaysia, known for its pristine rainforest and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park , which includes trekking through the jungle, exploring the caves, and spotting rare animals like tigers and elephants.
8. Tioman Island
Tioman Island is a small but stunning island located off the east coast of Malaysia, known for its turquoise waters and coral reefs. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
Kuching, located on the island of Borneo, is a charming city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Explore the city's many museums and galleries, or take a boat trip down the Sarawak River to see the local wildlife.
10. Gunung Mulu National Park
Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Malaysia's Sarawak region. The park is known for its incredible limestone formations, including the world's largest cave chamber, the Sarawak Chamber. Visitors can explore the park's caves on guided tours, hike through the rainforest, and see various wildlife, including hornbills, gibbons, and bats. The park also offers a unique experience called the "bat exodus," where visitors can witness millions of bats leaving the caves at dusk to hunt for food.
11. Kinabalu Park
Kinabalu Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sabah, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Hike to Mount Kinabalu's summit, Southeast Asia's highest peak. Visitors can walk to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, or explore the park's many trails, which wind through the lush rainforest and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
12. Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands are a pair of stunning islands located off the east coast of Malaysia, known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the turquoise waters, or go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
13. Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru is a bustling city across the border from Singapore, known for its shopping and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and galleries or visit the famous Legoland theme park.
14. Putrajaya
Putrajaya is a modern city located just south of Kuala Lumpur, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful parks. Tour the city's many landmarks, including the Putra Mosque and the Seri Perdana complex.
15. Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands is a popular hill station located just outside Kuala Lumpur, known for its cool climate and stunning views. Visitors can take a cable car ride up the mountain to the Genting Highlands resort, which offers a range of attractions and activities, including a theme park and a casino.
16. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured orangutans. Visitors can watch the orangutans being fed and playing in their natural habitat or take a guided tour of the center to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
17. Batu Ferringhi
Batu Ferringhi is a popular beach destination on Penang island, known for its stunning coastline and vibrant nightlife. Relax on the beach, sample the local cuisine at the many restaurants and street stalls, or shop for souvenirs at the night market. Plenty of water sports activities are also available, such as jet skiing and parasailing.
You May Also Like to Read: Island Paradise: Unveiling the Beauty and Charm of Penang
18. Redang Island
Redang Island is a popular destination for beach lovers and snorkelers, located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to see the diverse marine life, relax on the beach, and soak up the sun.
19. Kuala Terengganu
Kuala Terengganu is the capital city of the Terengganu state and is located on the east coast of Malaysia. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage. It is home to several historical landmarks and museums, including the Terengganu State Museum, one of Southeast Asia's most prominent museums. Visitors can also explore the city's many markets, sample the local cuisine, and cruise along the Terengganu River.
20. Sipadan Island
Sipadan Island is a stunning tropical paradise in the Celebes Sea, off the east coast of Malaysian Borneo. This small island is known for its incredible marine life, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers worldwide.
The island is surrounded by one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world, with over 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of species of coral. Divers can explore the stunning coral gardens, underwater caves, and stunning drop-offs surrounding the island. Highlights include the Barracuda Point, Turtle Cavern, and South Point dive sites, all teeming with various marine life.
In conclusion, Malaysia is a truly unique and diverse country that offers travelers numerous natural and cultural attractions. Malaysia has it all, whether you're seeking a bustling city experience or a peaceful escape to nature. The 20 destinations highlighted in this guide are just the tip of the iceberg; there is so much more to discover in this beautiful country. From its mouth-watering cuisine to its fascinating history and stunning natural landscapes, Malaysia is a destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list. So, start planning your trip today and get ready to experience Malaysia's best in 2023.
Keep reading Leisure.com for more information on your favorite destinations, tips on travel planning, and inspiration for your next adventure. Happy travels!
Which is the most visited place in Malaysia?
The most visited place in Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city. Known for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Kuala Lumpur attracts millions of visitors annually.
Is Malaysia an excellent place to travel?
Malaysia is a great travel destination for natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. The country is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you're a solo traveler or traveling with family, there's something for everyone in Malaysia.
How many days are enough for Malaysia?
The time you need in Malaysia depends on what you want to see and do. A week or two should be enough if you're interested in exploring the country's major cities and attractions. However, you may want to explore the more remote parts of the country or participate in adventure activities like trekking and diving. In that case, you should plan for a more extended trip.
What is the best month to visit Malaysia?
Ideally, the best time to visit Malaysia is between March and October, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, remember that some parts of the country, particularly the east coast, experience a monsoon season from November to February. It's also worth noting that some festivals and events, like Chinese New Year and the Rainforest World Music Festival, take place at specific times of the year, so plan accordingly if you want to experience these.
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13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malaysia
Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021
Malaysia is a multicultural country with much to offer visitors-regardless of their budget or what their idea of fun might be. Kuala Lumpur, the country's capital, is a cosmopolitan city with amazing shopping and stunning architecture-within blocks, you'll find both the ultramodern Petronas Towers and a number of colonial palaces and buildings.
Just a short drive away from the capital, there are plenty of things to do-from islands, mountains, and record-breaking caves, to countless temples and a unique chance to explore the fauna-rich jungle of Borneo .
Malaysia is also a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving , with beautiful coral reefs and soft sandy beaches that regularly make top destinations lists.
For more ideas on how to spend your time, see our list of top tourist attractions in Malaysia.
1. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur
2. batu caves, selangor, 3. mount kinabalu, sabah, 4. perhentian islands, 5. sipadan island, 6. gunung mulu national park, sarawak, 7. penang hill, 8. sepilok orangutan rehabilitation centre, sandakan, 9. kek lok si temple, george town, 10. langkawi skycab, kedah, 11. bako national park, borneo, 12. cameron highlands, pahang, 13. ipoh caverns, map of tourist attractions in malaysia.
The tallest twin towers in the world , the Petronas reach an impressive 452 meters high up into the clouds. The towers are 88 floors tall and have an impressive total of 76 elevators.
Built using reinforced concrete, steel, and glass, the two towers are connected to each other by a double skybridge on the 41st and 42nd floors. Visitors can make their way up here for stunning views of KL and the 6.9-hectare KLCC Park below-the views are particularly impressive at night.
While most of the floors on the towers are rented to companies-IBM, Microsoft, and Huawei Technologies all have offices here-the bottom floors of the towers are reserved for Suria KLCC, one of the largest shopping centers in Malaysia . With over 300 stores, an art gallery, and even space for a Philharmonic Hall, this retail and entertainment space will keep visitors occupied for hours.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur
Located less than an hour outside Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves complex consists of three main caves plus a series of smaller ones, most of them containing statues and 100-year-old shrines dedicated to Hindu gods.
The main cave, known as Cathedral Cave , is at the top of a massive colorful staircase-make it all the way up the 272 steps, and you'll find a space decorated with statues, altars, and lights. At the bottom of the stairs, a 43-meter-tall gold statue of Lord Murugan welcomes visitors.
Visitors are allowed to explore the caves on their own or can join a guided tour to learn more about the caves. During the Hindu festival of Thaipusam in January, thousands of people flock to the cave for the celebrations.
At just over 4,000 meters high, Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in Malaysia. The mountain is part of Kinabalu Park, one of the oldest national parks in Malaysia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Because of its unique ecosystem mixing alpine meadows, grasslands, and shrublands, Kinabalu is home to an impressive range of both plant and animal species, including the threatened orangutans.
Mount Kinabalu is a major destination for climbers-but summiting here can be tricky. Only 185 climb permits are issued daily by the park, and visitors must make accommodation reservations and hire a mountain guide in advance in order to be allowed to hit the trails. Although people under 16 are allowed to join climbing groups, there are restrictions in place.
Climbers should plan a stay at the Kinabalu National Park before attempting the climb-since the park itself is already at an altitude of over 1,800 meters, this will allow for acclimatization before attempting to reach the peak.
Official site: https://www.mountkinabalu.com/
Once a stopping point used by traders traveling around Southeast Asia, this group of small islands is part of a marine park and has become a major tourist destination in northeastern Malaysia. Most of the islands can be accessed by either ferry or small motorized boats, although only the two larger islands offer accommodations, shops, and amenities-of these two, Pulau Perhentian Besar has more of a backpacking scene, while Pulau Perhentian Kecil is a little more upscale and family-oriented.
While you can hop on a water taxi to move from one beach to the next here, it's also possible to follow the island's walking trails instead-a much-recommended option as you get to trek through jungle paths and get open stunning views of the water along the way.
Scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular activities here, but visitors can also volunteer in turtle conservation programs and get unique access to the areas where turtles come to lay eggs.
Sipadan Island and its surrounding ocean waters are part of the world's richest marine habitat , home to endangered hawksbill turtles, whale sharks, monitor lizards, and hundreds of coral species. The island is also considered one of the best diving destinations in the world and is fiercely protected-visiting requires a permit in advance and only 120 permits are given out per day.
Reaching the island requires an hour-long ride on a speed boat. Once here, the island can be easily explored on foot, with different beaches and reef sites within minutes of each other.
Since it's no longer possible to stay on the island because of environmental protection laws (the nearby Mabul Island offers accommodations), visitors usually come here early in the morning as part of snorkeling and diving tours. All visitors must leave the island by 3pm.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site might be more famous for its impressive karst limestone pinnacles that resemble people standing in large formations, but the park's massive caves are just as stunning.
Thick rain forest covers most of the park and makes some areas difficult to access-one of the reasons some of the caves here weren't really explored until the 1970s. Another reason is how massive the cave systems are: both the largest passage and the largest underground chamber in the world are located in caves here.
Deer Cave is particularly beautiful, with ceilings over 122 meters tall, waterfalls cascading through the rocks, and an opening over a sinkhole that's over one kilometer wide. Visitors to the park can also trek up to the Sarawak Chamber and Paku Waterfall or try a climb up on The Pinnacles Summit Trek, which takes three days and involves ropes, ladders, and an arduous walk through the jungle.
The top of Penang Hill can be reached via the Penang Hill Railway, an air-conditioned funicular that makes the 2,007-meter-long climb up in five to 10 minutes. Although there are mid-stops between the base station and the highest point, these are done only on request and mostly used by residents who live at those stops.
The top of Penang Hill offers beautiful green views over the city and is home to the Habitat Penang Hill, with a 1.6-kilometer nature trail cutting through the rain forest and a number of tropical gardens; a canopy walk 40 meters up in the sky; ziplines ; and the Skyway, which offers three viewing decks and a 360-degree view of the bay and islands.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Penang
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center was founded in 1964 to help orphaned orangutan babies rescued from the pet trade or saved from illegal hunting. The center's main goal is to help these orangutans learn how to survive in the wild (in fact, replacing what they would usually learn from their mothers), so they can be eventually released into the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, which is covered in virgin forest and extends for 4,300 hectares around the rescue center. Over 80 orangutans currently live free in the reserve.
While visitors cannot interact with the animals or approach them, they can come to the center to learn more about orangutans and the challenges they face today, see the nursery and the climbing area through a glass window, and attend feeding times (seen from a platform) twice a day.
The boardwalk that cuts through the center offers plenty of opportunities to explore and see the orangutans playing and jumping around on the trees nearby.
Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple sits on a hill, at the bottom of Air Itam mountain. As Asian temples go, Kek Lok Si is relatively new, as construction began in 1890-but the massive seven-story Pagoda surrounded by 10,000 Buddha statues make this a striking destination that can't be missed.
Surrounded by gardens, fish ponds, prayer halls, and a number of stalls selling both religious and secular souvenirs, the pagoda is also home to a 36-meter-tall statue of Kwan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
The temple attracts many visitors from all around Southeast Asia who come here to "make merits" but also to see one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the area. Chinese New Year celebrations are particularly beautiful at the temple, as the entire space is decorated with thousands of lanterns.
Official site: https://kekloksitemple.com
The Langkawi cable car makes a 2.2-kilometer trip between the Base Station and the top of Gunung Machinchang mountain, where a number of attractions-including a pedestrian skybridge-are located. There's also a middle station, where travelers can get off to access a viewing platform.
The journey to the top, in glass-bottom gondolas, takes about 15 minutes and offers sweeping views of the bay , the Telaga Tujuh waterfall, and the turquoise waters surrounding Langkawi Island .
In addition to the skybridge, the top station also offers a number of amenities, two additional viewing platforms, and a trail that descends all the way to the middle station through the evergreen jungle.
Bako National Park sits right against the water, sandy beaches, and steep sandstone cliffs surrounding the beautiful mangroves and peat swamp forests. Reaching the park requires taking a bus followed by a 20-minute ride on a small motorboat that's not for the faint of heart.
Once at the shore, you can follow any of the 16 marked trails on the island to help you explore (there's no transportation within the park) and hopefully catch sight of the unusual local flora and fauna , which includes carnivorous plants, the endangered proboscis monkeys, and the rare and friendly bearded pig. Two of the best trails include the Lintang Loop for great sightseeing on relatively easy terrain, and the Tajor trail, which takes you to a waterfall and pools you can swim in.
To better appreciate the beauty of the park, consider staying overnight, as most animals only come out once the sun sets. There are bungalows for rent as well as a designated campsite at the park headquarters.
Official site: https://www.bakonationalpark.com/
A stunningly emerald green hill station, the Cameron Highlands cover an area of over 712 square kilometers. The main attraction here is the tea estates, a legacy from British colonial times. The area, however, also offers orchards; lavender farms; and plenty of opportunities to hike through the local mossy forest to reach aboriginal villages, waterfalls, and lakes.
Both locals and visitors head here to enjoy the cooler climate and experience a true high-tea experience in places like the Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate , where you can not only tour the plantation but also see the tea-making process, sit at the café, and stock up on goodies at the gift shop.
The Cameron Highlands area is also the native domain of the Rafflesia, the largest individual flower on Earth , which grows directly on the ground and can reach a diameter of over 100 centimeters.
There are two big reasons to visit vibrant, bustling Ipoh - the city is known as the gateway to the Cameron Highlands and the home of many limestone caves.
Massive Gua Tempurung is one of the longest caves in Malaysia, filled with viewing platforms to help visitors get closer to the stunning crystal formations covering the walls, the giant chambers, and the underground river. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple is filled with Buddhist statues and home to a garden and turtle pond, while Panjang Cave is famous for its 5,000-year-old Neolithic paintings.
Ipoh's colonial past is another important attraction, with plenty of beautiful architecture in buildings like the Birch Clock Tower and the Railway Station, as well as a 6.5-kilometer-long Heritage Trail that stretches around the city.
Ipoh is also considered one of Malaysia's food capitals (along with Penang). There are plenty of restaurants and cafés around the city, but Ipoh's street food stalls offer an equally amazing culinary experience where you can try taugeh chicken rice or curry mee. For an afternoon break, it's hard to beat a serving of caramel egg custard with the famous Ipoh white coffee.
Other things to do in Ipoh include visiting the Lost World of Tambun theme park, shopping the flea market at Memory Lane, and checking out the beautiful street art in Oldtown Ipoh.
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More of Malaysia : Malaysia is a stunning mix of jungle, beaches, and cities that offer examples of both colonial and futuristic architecture. Most visitors coming to Malaysia arrive in Kuala Lumpur first, a city full of interesting sights you can learn more about on our Top Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur article. If you're going to Penang or George Town instead, check out the top tourist attractions in Penang . Still in the early stages of planning your trip? Take a look at everything Malaysia has to offer in our article about the best places to visit in Malaysia .
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- 41 Amazing Malaysia Tourist Attractions For An Adventure Of A Lifetime In 2024
23 Mar 2023
Malaysia is an amazing country, known for reflecting an eclectic blend of ancient customs, traditions, and culture with a dash of modernity. The country has a lot to offer to its discerning tourists in terms of all the Malaysia tourist attractions like beautiful islands, beaches, quaint towns, heritage sites, and adventure spots. If a Malaysia tour is on the cards, here’s a quick list of best places to visit in Malaysia and mind it, it comes with a no-miss warning. Whether you’re looking for nature, architecture, relaxation, or adventure, these places will ensure you have a great holiday in Malaysia. So, make sure you visit all of these Malaysia tourist places on your next trip to the country if you wish to experience the best of what this nation has to offer.
Malaysia Tourist Attractions In 2024: Best Islands And Mountains
We have shortlisted some of the best islands to visit in Malaysia with your family and friends for an awesome brief getaway. Prepare to be thrilled and have the best experience of sightseeing in Malaysia.
- Langkawi Island – Land Of Azure Waters
- Perhentian Island – Witness The Colorful Corals
- Penang – The Finest Of All
- Kinabatangan – Home To Exotic Wild
- Mount Kinabalu – Hiker’s Paradise
- Pangkor Island – Serenity All Around
- Sipadan Island – The Top Diving Site
- Mantanani – Exotic Marine Life
- Redang Island – Home To A Marine Park
- Manukan Island – Exciting Water Sports
- Pulau Tioman – Path Less Taken
1. Langkawi Island – Land Of Azure Waters
Image Source
A beautiful archipelago, Langkawi Island is a destination known for its vast expanse of sandy beaches and azure blue water which enthrall the tourists. The Langkawi Geopark is a UNESCO heritage site that attracts a large number of visitors and is, undoubtedly, the top among the must visit places in Malaysia. It is a perfect manifestation of the geological heritage in the area. It is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family .
Major Attractions: Famous Cable Car that is popular among kids, as well as, adults. Entry Fee: INR 15 – INR 20 per head for a one hour island tour Tip: This beach is a must visit for total relaxation, rejuvenation and sightseeing in Malaysia .
Must Read: 21 Malaysia Islands You Must Visit For Having The Best Vacation Ever
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2. LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort – Be Dazzled
You get to experience a time full of imagination. The LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort is the first international theme park in Malaysia & the first LEGOLAND® theme park in Asia. Explore an area full of attractions that will completely dazzle you. This is a wonderful place to visit in Malaysia with kids as they are going to love the various rides, shows, slides and multiple other attractions.
What’s more is that you can have a memorable time at the waterpark with more than 20 tubes and slides and over 70 LEGO® models. Enjoy an amazing underwater experience with more than 13,000 marine creatures from 11 habitat zones where you can even spot unique LEGO® figures along the journey!
Major Attractions : LEGOLAND® Water Park, SEA LIFE, LEGO®KINGDOMS, LEGO TECHNIC® , MINILAND, LEGO CITY, Land of Adventure, Imagination, LEGO®NINJAGO® World, The Beginning & The Big Shop
Entry Fee : Prices vary according to attraction you choose
Tip : Try to explore at least 1 activity from all the themes for a fulfilling experience
3. Perhentian Island – Witness The Colorful Corals
A group of stunning, coral fringed islands – the Perhentian Island is located almost 19 km away from the North-eastern Malaysia. It is a part of marine park where activities like fishing are strictly prohibited. It is one of the most unique places to visit in the country. It is also counted among the best places to visit in Malaysia with friends .
Major Attractions: Transparent shallow waters near the coast allow a perfect glimpse of the colorful corals at this famous tourist place in Malaysia. Entry Fee: INR 80 to INR 100 per adult at the Marine Park Tip: These islands are among the best places to visit in Malaysia to enjoy the vibrant hues of corals.
Suggested Read: Tioman Island: An Ultimate Guide To Explore The Hidden Gem Of Malaysia
4. Penang – The Finest Of All
Located on the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia , Penang is one of the finest Malaysian islands that you shouldn’t miss on your trip. Famous as an exotic destination, the place offers its visitors so much to explore. This city’s Wonderfood Museum, Fort Cornwallis, Reclining Buddha, Burmese Temple and Waterfront Village just happen to be some of the best places in Malaysia for you to visit.
Major Attractions: Rainbow Skywalk, Street of Harmony and Waterfront Village are some of the places you must visit. Entry Fee: NA Tip: Don’t miss out on Armenian Street Art and Wonderfood Museum.
Suggested Read: 4 Amazing Places To Visit In Malaysia For A Short Trip For Your Trip!
5. Kinabatangan – Home To Exotic Wild
Located to the east of Sabah, Kinabatangan is known for its rainforest remains. Its wildlife sanctuary attracts a large number of wildlife lovers at this tourist attraction is Malaysia. Among the most romantic places to visit in Malaysia , this one tops the list.
Location: Northeastern Borneo, Malaysia Major Attractions : Visit the Jungle Camp to enjoy wildlife in its unhindered natural habitat. Entry Fee: INR 6000 per person (Minimum 2 adults) for 2 days, 1 night trip to the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp Tip: Enjoy an early morning cruise to watch out rich wildlife
Suggested Read: 19 Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur: The City Of Lights
6. Mount Kinabalu – Hiker’s Paradise
The tallest mountain of Borneo, Mount Kinabalu is a striking sight to behold. Hikers love to enjoy impressive trails that allow a glimpse of the picturesque surroundings of the region. Quite popular among people with adventurous bones, it is one of the best Malaysia visiting place to have a thrill oozing experience. Among the good places to visit in Malaysia , this one tops the list.
Location: West Coast Division, Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Zip line to experience the rush that comes with high velocity Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Enjoy amazing sights and thrilling activities at this tourist place in Malaysia.
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Malaysia: 10 Places To Witness The Hues Of Blue
7. Pangkor Island – Serenity All Around
Image Source If you’re seeking peace and solitude with the perfect mix of beauty and serenity, you should be heading to Pangkor Island, one of the most tranquil Malaysia tourist attractions . Lying near Perak’s coast, this is one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions that features empty beaches, crystal clear and clean water, and dense jungles covering the center of the island. You’ll definitely love the chance to sunbathe under swaying palms here without another soul in sight. When you’re here, you must check out the Dutch Colonial Fort, take pictures of a traditional wooden jetty, and feed hornbills at the Sunset View Chalet.
Location: West coast of Peninsular Malaysia Major Attractions: Dutch Colonial Fort, Sunset View Chalet
Suggested Read: 12 Malaysian Street Food Dishes That You Should Try
8. Sipadan Island – The Top Diving Site
Image Source The petite island near Semporna in Sabah is among the world’s top diving sites and surely one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions . After attaining the status of a protected reserve in 2002, only a handful of tourists at a time are given permission to visit this limestone pinnacle which is one of the best islands near Kuala Lumpur . So, make sure you get your permit way in advance so that you do not miss out on the experience of seeing one of the best Malaysia attractions. Preserving its delicate ecology, this island has everything from unique flora to bizarre fauna to make your holiday a special one.
Location: Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Diving and rare fauna
Suggested Read: 5 Thrilling Things To Do In Chinatown Malaysia For Every Traveler This Year!
9. Mantanani – Exotic Marine Life
Image Source Sabah’s Mantanani Islands located near Kota Belud are some of the most famous tourist places in Malaysia that offer Borneo’s finest diving sites just an hour from Kota Kinabalu. It’s among the most famous places in Malaysia owing to its diving locales and a favorite of all snorkelers and divers who flock to this island on day trips from the capital city. Swarming in large numbers, divers come in from all parts of the world at these islands to wander in its clear waters and meet seahorses and stingrays. Scuba-certified divers can choose from more than 20 locations here for these water sports in Malaysia .
Location: North-west coast of the state of Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Diving and snorkeling sites
Suggested Read: Top 11 Places To Visit In Bukit Tinggi Malaysia To Enjoy Your Holidays!
10. Redang Island – Home To A Marine Park
Image Source The Redang Island is a cluster of 9 islands that form this unique locale for a day tour from the mainland. The Rendang Island Marine Park located near Terengganu State is among the most exciting Malaysia tourist attractions. Tucked near the Perhentian Islands, this charming archipelago attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers who are more into a luxurious holiday than backpacking. Find some of the best hotels and resorts in Malaysia on these islands for a lavish holiday experience. Other than luxury and great views, Redang’s thriving diving scene also makes it one of the most amazing tourist places in Malaysia.
Location: Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia Major Attractions: Luxury hotels, beach resorts, diving sites
Suggested Read: Island Hopping, Ziplining, Sightseeing, & Duty-Free Shopping: This Malaysia Travel Guide Has It All!
11. Manukan Island – Exciting Water Sports
Image Source The second largest island sitting in the first ever marine national park of Malaysia, Manukan Island is one of the exciting tourist places in Malaysia that one should visit at least once in a lifetime. Home to an extensive number of water sports and beaches, this island has plenty to offer to locals and travelers alike. The Island is famed for its coral reefs that reek of vibrant and eye-catching colors. Accessible by a ferry from Kota Kinabalu, this island offers the best of facilities amidst all the islands of Malaysia.
Location: Tunku abdul Rahman National Park, Malaysia Major Attractions: Water Sports, Coral Reefs
Suggested Read: 16 Things To Do In Genting Highlands Malaysia For A Memorable Vacay
12. Pulau Tioman – Path Less Taken
Sitting on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Pulau Tioman is one of the smallest islands. It has been tagged as one of the most beautiful places to see in Malaysia that is nothing less than paradise on earth. The dense, lush green forests and pristine blue waters of this island does not fail to reek of serenity and alluring vibes. Ranking at the top on the list of paths less taken, Pulau Tioman usually remains deserted other than the months when Malaysia experiences monsoon (November to February).
Location: Rompin District, Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Water Sports, Solitude
Suggested Read: Malaysia In September: A Fun Guide On Everything You Need To Know For A Memorable Trip!
Malaysia Tourist Attractions: Best Cities, Towns, And Villages
We have shortlisted splendid cities, towns, and villages in Malaysia that you must visit this year for a wonderful time with your loved ones. Check out all of these Malaysia tourist places for the best trip of your life.
- Melaka – The City Of Ancient Architecture
- George Town – Reeks Of Historic Vibes
- Perak – A Plate Full Of Adventure
- Serdang – Try Zorbing
- Cameron Highlands – Nature At Its Best
- Johor Bahru – Indulge In The Local Cuisine
- Klang – Try Out The Herbal Flavors
- Alor Setar – The Rice Bowl Of Malaysia
- Semporna – Crystal Clear Waters
- Putrajaya – The Perfectly Planned City
13. Melaka – The City Of Ancient Architecture
In 2008, Maleka attained the Unesco Heritage Site status and is considered among the must see places in Malaysia, since then. Melaka, located 2 hours away from Kuala Lumpur, is one of the most famous trading ports of Southeast Asia. Its ancient architecture speaks volumes about its erstwhile grandeur. Housing some of the best Malaysia tourist attractions, the city is not to be missed. Tripping with family? Don’t forget to visit classic places in Melaka for kids like the Nyonya Heritage Museum.
Major Attractions: Visit Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum if you are a history buff to know more about Malays-Chinese local history. Entry Fee: INR 130 – INR 150 for adults (Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum) Tip: Enjoy local delicacies at Melaka, a famous tourist place in Malaysia.
Suggested Read: 7 Nature Suffused Soul Enchanting Hill Stations In Malaysia
14. George Town – Reeks Of Historic Vibes
George Town, a popular historical town, is one among all Malaysia tourist places that history buffs will love to visit. Adorned with some exquisite heritage sites and pilgrimage monuments , the town offers glimpses of erstwhile times. Also, it has its own place among the best places to visit in Malaysia .
Location: Penang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Kapitan Keling Mosque, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and beautiful Buddhist Temples. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee to this quaint tourist place in Malaysia. Tip: Enjoy the Vibrant Street art by the local artists at this tourist destination in Malaysia.
Suggested Read: 25 Honeymoon Destinations In Malaysia To Visit That Will Surprise Your Partner
15. Perak – A Plate Full Of Adventure
Located just one and a half hour away from Kuala Lumpur, adventure tourists can experience the thrill of water rafting in Perak. It takes place in the Ulu Slim River, which is suitable for Grade 3+ rafting activity. Excellent equipments are available for the rafters at this famous tourist attraction in Malaysia.
Location: NA Major Attractions: The aboriginal village and scenic landscape all around Entry Fee: INR 2,800 – INR 3000 per person Tip: The equipment available for the rafters here is excellent, which implies Perak is a good place to raft.
Suggested Read: Thinking Of Visiting Malaysia In June? Read This Before You Plan A Vacation
16. Serdang – Try Zorbing
A popular recreational activity, Zorbing can be enjoyed in Serdang. Rolling inside an overblown transparent plastic ball is an amazing experience. No matter, if its in water or on a hard surface. It is, hands downs, one of the best Malaysia tourist attractions.
Major Attractions: Don’t miss Zorbing at Serdang. It is a among the popular Malaysia tourist attractions here. Entry Fee: INR 2,400 – INR 3,000 Tip: Ensure that your sense of balance is sharp.
Suggested Read: Malaysia In July: A Complete Guide For You To Have A Great Travel Experience
17. Cameron Highlands – Nature At Its Best
If you want to be at the hills in Malaysia then Cameron Highlands is the place for you. One of the oldest tourist spots in Malaysia , this hill station was established in the 1930s and is now inhabited by a group of people who are very diverse and have their impact on the culture too. Mesmerising tea estates, great weather, cascading waterfalls, strawberry farms and pretty orchards make reasons enough for you to visit this place.
Location: Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Tea estates, strawberry farms and gushing waterfalls are the prime reasons for you to visit the place. Entry Fee: INR 350 – INR 400 Tip: Don’t miss out on the beautiful orchards and strawberry farms.
Suggested Read: 4 Homely Places To Visit In Malaysia That Will Make You Want To Stay
18. Johor Bahru – Indulge In The Local Cuisine
The bustling Malayasian city, Johor Bahru is located in the Southernmost end of the country. There’s a causeway bridge in Johor connecting Malaysia to Singapore. You would surely enjoy visiting Istana Besar, a grand royal palace in the city, built in 1866 by the Sultan of Johor. Now it has been turned into Royal Abu Bakar Museum . Johor Bahru is also a great place for exploring Malaysian food.
Location: Johor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Royal Abu Bakar Museum, Legoland Malaysia, Sanrio Hello Kitty Town Entry Fee: NA Tip: Taking a local transport will help you absorb the culture best
Suggested Read: 5 Amazing Places To Visit In Miri In 1 Day Which Cannot Be Missed In Malaysia!
19. Klang – Try Out The Herbal Flavors
Klang is another town in Malaysia which is appreciated for amazing local food. One of the most popular dishes being Bak Kut Teh , the pork rib soup. The food here is high on herbal flavours. You can visit the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery to get a peek into the intriguing royal history of Selangor. This town also houses the largest port in the country, Port Klang.
Location: Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery, Laman Seni 7, SnowWalk, Trick Art Museum Entry Fee: NA Tip: Do not miss trying new food dishes here
Suggested Read: 18 Places To Visit In Malacca That Bring Out The Other Side Of Malaysia
20. Alor Setar – The Rice Bowl Of Malaysia
Image Source Alor Setar is among the most important places to see in Malaysia owing to the fact that it’s the ‘rice bowl of Malaysia’. This capital of Kedah State is full of paddy fields as well as delightful rolling hills that are a treat to the eyes! The city exhibits the typical Malay culture and is home to some interesting galleries, lovely architecture, and pretty beaches that brings people here from near and far. It is located very near to the stunning Pulau Langkawi beach which provides as a great place for a day trip from this city.
Location: Kota Setar, Malaysia Major Attractions: Art galleries, beaches, paddy fields
Suggested Read: 10 Marvellous Places To Visit In Sepang Malaysia For A Perfect Vacay!
21. Semporna – Crystal Clear Waters
Image Source The city of Semporna is famed for the Semporna Archipelago, which is one of the most beautiful Malaysia tourist attractions luring in travelers from around the world. An otherwise hectic town with lots of traffic, this city has only recently become a popular tourist destination owing to this archipelago. If you’re visiting places in Malaysia that have fewer tourist attractions and more natural charm, then this should be on the top of your list. Other than nature, this city also has a mosque and distinctive hotels lining the stunning waterfront.
Location: Borneo, Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: Skull Hill, Semporna Archipelago
Suggested Read: Langkawi Travel Tips: Remember These Important Things Before Visiting This Malaysian Paradise!
22. Putrajaya – The Perfectly Planned City
Image Source Lying over 30 km away from Kuala Lumpur, the planned city of Putrajaya happens to be among the most scenic tourist destinations in Malaysia and has the government´s administrative body. Possessing impressive architecture, monuments, green spaces, lavish parks, and other tourist attractions, this developed city reflects Malaysia’s ambition and vision for the future. More than anything else, it’s a great place to experience the nightlife of Malaysia . You’ll find it beautifully lit up at night with a lot of trendy bars and clubs luring you in. Also, the city is thinly populated, making it one of the most offbeat and peaceful places for sightseeing in Malaysia.
Location: South of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Putra Mosque, Perdana Putra, Putra Bridge, Putrajaya Lake
Suggested Read: Skydiving In Malaysia: 5 Best Spots Known For This Adventure Activity
Malaysia Tourist Attractions: Best Wildlife Places
There are some of the most exotic wildlife places to visit in Malaysia that protect land and aquatic animals. If you are a nature lover, you would surely enjoy visiting these charming Malaysia tourist spots.
- Aquaria KLCC – Walk Amidst The Marine Life
- Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Paradise For Bird Watchers
- Bako National Park – Epitome Of Natural Beauty
- Semengohh Nature Reserve – Land Of Orangutans
- Taman Negara – Oldest Rainforest
- Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – For Extravagant Mangroves
- Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Ample Of Beach Activities
- Turtle Sanctuary Beach – Solace And Solitude
- Gunung Gading National Park – Home To The Largest Flower Ever
23. Aquaria KLCC – Walk Amidst The Marine Life
Said to be the largest aquarium in the world, the Aquaria KLCC consists of more than 5000 marine and freshwater creatures including the likes of garfishes, massive arapaimas and giant groupers and more. Seahorses, huge tiger sharks and bright and colourful coral fishes are the major attractions of this place. The place is one of the best tourist attractions in Malaysia and you won’t wanna miss out on this one.
Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Colourful coral fishes and big tiger sharks which can be scary. Entry Fee: INR 1200 for adults | INR 1,000 for kids Tip: Enjoy and see the enriching and vast variety of water animals
Suggested Read: 5 Handpicked Places To Visit In Melaka In 2 Days While In Malaysia!
24. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park – Paradise For Bird Watchers
The Bird Park in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is divided into four zones out of which Zone 1 and Zone 2 are for the free flight of the birds where they are left to fly and given a nice environment to breed naturally. It is a treat to the eyes to watch all the colorful birds fly together in these areas. Zone 3 of the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is the Hornbill Park and the Zone 4 consists of a number of cages and separate areas for different types of birds.
Location: KL Bird Park, 920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: Some of the major attractions of the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park are Hornbill Park, parrots, the egg incubation area, flamingo pond, bird gallery, and others. Entry Fee: INR 850 for adults | INR 700 for kids. Tip: Do not litter the park.
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Merdeka Square Malaysia For A Riveting Sojourn!
25. Bako National Park – Epitome Of Natural Beauty
The oldest national park in Sarawak , Bako National Park is an epitome of natural beauty and a vast and wide variety of animals. With seven different rainforest ecosystems and an adventurous and exciting trek where you can explore the wide variety of wildlife and finish the trek on reaching a beautiful beach Bako National Park is where you should be at.
Location: Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: Interact with nature and explore seven different rainforest ecosystems at once. Entry Fee: INR 150 – INR 200 Tip: Explore the diverse wildlife and enjoy the scenic trek.
26. Semengohh Nature Reserve – Land Of Orangutans
The main purpose behind the establishment of Semenggoh Nature Reserve is to provide nourishment, love and care for animals who have been injured or abandoned. Made in 1975, this natural reserve has more than 9000 species of endangered species. Well known for Orangutan preservation, this place also has another unique factor which is that the animals are released once they are completely rehabilitated here. And that’s what makes it one of the fascinating Malaysia tourist places.
Location: 93250 Siburan, Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: The variety of wildlife present here attracts the tourists. Entry Fee: INR 170 – INR 200 for adults; INR 80 – INR 100 for children Tip: The Orang-utans development cycle here(9 AM and 10 AM; 3 PM and 3:30 PM) should not be missed.
Suggested Read: 9 Impeccable Places To Visit In Pahang Malaysia For Your Vacay!
27. Taman Negara – Oldest Rainforest
The oldest rainforest in the world, Taman Negara is a quite and peaceful rainforest in the bustling Malaysia. One of the most popular ecotourism destinations in Malaysia this place offers a respite from the monotony of everyday life and many activities for relaxation and rejuvenation and definitely some adventure. You can take boating trips , try your hand at shooting , observe wildlife and trek at Gunung Tahan .
Location: 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang, Malaysia Major Attractions: Jungle Walks during the night hours, aboriginal settlements at Orang Asli and canopy walks are what you should definitely do at Taman Negara. Entry Fee: INR 17 – INR 20 Tip: Do try out the various activities you can at Taman Negara
28. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – For Extravagant Mangroves
The best way to explore the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park located in the enthralling Langkawi islands is through a boat tour. Known amongst the best places to enjoy natural mangroves this place is all about beauty. The visitors can explore and get to know about unique and distinct Limestone formations , swim in the rivers at the place and see and observe the migratory birds and learn about the medicinal plants present at this place.
Location: Malaysia, Kampung Kilim, MY 07000 Kedah Langkawi Kilim Sungai Kilim Major Attractions: Let the beauty of suspended and distinct Bogak trees and the migratory birds take over you. Entry Fee: INR 3500 -INR 8500 for a boat and tour guide Tip: Enjoy the beauty of Bogak trees and watch flying foxes
Suggested Read: 7 Top Places To Visit In Malaysia For Honeymoon For A Fanciful Vacation
29. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Ample Of Beach Activities
A group of five islands namely Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug is what forms the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. If you are a beach person then there’s good news for you! The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes many fun and exciting beach activities . Not just that there is something for water babies too. You can indulge in scuba diving or snorkeling or observe the fascinating marine life.
Location: Sabah, Malaysia Major Attractions: The exciting beach activities are what most people visit the place for. Entry Fee: INR 350 for adults; INR 250 for children Tip: If you want to try out the beach activities then make prior bookings for the same.
Suggested Read: 5 Stunning Places To Visit In Shah Alam Malaysia That Will Leave You In Awe!
30. Turtle Sanctuary Beach – Solace And Solitude
If you want some privacy and stunning beaches with scenic views then Turtle Sanctuary Beach is your best bet. With its clear waters, bright corals and exotic marine life this place is hard to miss. The best part is that there is not even a single building or resort in the vicinity and dense forests are what one sees till as far as one can see.
Major Attractions: Great location, bright corals and no commercialisation around the area. Entry Fee: NA Tip: You can catch many turtles laying eggs and many baby turtles hatching which is a rare sight.
Suggested Read: 10 Reasons To Visit Malaysia That Will Trigger Your Wanderlust
31. Gunung Gading National Park – Home To The Largest Flower Ever
Known for being home to the largest flower in the entire world, Gunung Gading National Park is one of the famous places in Malaysia , especially for the to-be botanists or nature admirers. Rafflesia blooms that are around three feet high can be found here. Although these flowers can die just after a few days, Rafflesia can bloom anytime of the year. Apart from this, this National Park has ample to offer including clear beaches, rugged and stunning mountains, and the lush green jungles where one can hike.
Location: Southwest Sarawak, Malaysia Major Attractions: World’s largest flower -Rafflesia, hiking spots in the jungles, and beaches for strolling around Entry Fee: INR 340 for adults; INR 120 for children Tip: You can look at the largest flower but avoid smelling the Rafflesia blooms as it has a nasty fragrance.
Suggested Read: Malaysia In May: Top 10 Places To Explore In The Country During This Month
Other Tourist Attractions In Malaysia
There are several historical, adventurous, and entertaining tourist places to visit in Malaysia . Make sure you include all of these outstanding Malaysia tourist spots in your itenerary for a great trip.
- A’Famosa Fortress – For A Hint Of Europe
- Maran Murugan Temple – Perfect Craftmanship
- ATV Adventure Park – For A Dose Of Thrill And Entertainment
- Bukit Bintang – Be A Part Of Crazy
- Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower – Stunning Cityscapes
- Petronas Twin Towers – Most Iconic Of All
- Sunway Lagoon – Embrace That Inner Child
- Islamic Arts Museum – An Insight Into The Culture
- Batu Caves – Magnet For Adventure Enthusiasts
- Kek Lok Si Temple – Popular Amidst Pilgrims
32. A’Famosa Fortress – For A Hint Of Europe
In Portuguese, the meaning of A’Famosa is “famous” and this magnificent fortress is actually extremely popular among tourists. The glimpses of European architecture can be seen here, which makes it one of the most unusual Malaysia tourist places. A’Famosa Fortress is perfect if you are looking for some light sightseeing in Malaysia .
Location: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka, Malaysia Major Attractions: Ammunition-storage room, officers’ quarters and captain’s residence. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee to this monumental Malaysia tourist attraction. Tip: Best to visit in the early morning to avoid crowds thronging to the place.
Suggested Read: 14 Top Festivals In Malaysia To Witness Its Vibrant Culture & Rich Traditions
33. Maran Murugan Temple – Perfect Craftmanship
Maran Murugan temple is a famous temple dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Murugan. It has a mysterious past and the story of its origin is quite interesting. Quite unique of all the places to visit in Malaysia , this one is prominent due to its amazing craftsmanship.
Location: Sri Maran Marathandavar Aalayam, Jalan Kuantan – Jerantut, Pahang, 26500 Maran, Malaysia Major Attractions: Maran Murugan temple is known for its amazing architecture and striking golden color painted exterior. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Visit during Morning Darshan to enjoy the solitude of the temple.
Suggested Read: 10 Best National Parks In Malaysia That Will Evoke Your Love For Nature & Wildlife
34. ATV Adventure Park – For A Dose Of Thrill And Entertainment
Enjoy an exciting experience of driving All Terrain Vehicles at a mind-numbing pace in the Adventure Park. This entertainment park is most perfect to enjoy some of the soul thrilling activities of all the best places to go in Malaysia for a thrilling dayout.
Location: Atv Adventure, Kampung Kemensah, 68000, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: Cross country runs and Sofea Jane Waterfall Entry Fee: INR 850 to INR 5,200 Tip: Join the training park if you are an amateur, willing to master quadro-cycling.
35. Bukit Bintang – Be A Part Of Crazy
On a visit to Kuala Lumpur, one can also experience the best of nightlife and shopping in Bukit Bintang. Streets of Bukit Bintang get a new look after 10 PM when all the restaurants and nightclubs increase their music volume to attract a huge number of tourists towards them. The area gets crowded with youths, while bright lights make the place look vibrant and festive.
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The Pavilion KL is one of the best shopping malls that stores products of a large number of European brands like Dolce and Gabbana, MaxMara, Versace, and others. Entry Fee: No entry fee Tip: Beware of the pickpockets, who take advantage of the crowd.
Suggested Read: 27 Kickass Things To Do In Malaysia: Water Sports, Boat Safari, Food & More For Your Vacay
36. Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower – Stunning Cityscapes
The KL Tower is a 421 meters tall building , that provides one of the most stunning views of the city, and the KL Tower observation deck at the height of 276 meters. The KL Tower skybox provides a unique experience of the city in a panoramic view that will help you see the whole city uninterrupted and provide you a full 360-degree experience. As you move up and reach the KL Tower Skydeck, you get to view the city from its mesmerizing height.
Location: No. 2 Jalan Punchak, Off, Jalan P Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The tower also has a lot of other attractions for the tourists, such as Mini Zoo, Upside Down House, XD Theatre, a 360-degree panoramic view restaurant, Malaysia Cultural Village, and more. Entry Fee: INR 830 for adults and INR 500 for kids Tip: The tower has 22 levels with a total of 2058 steps, so brace yourself for climbing these steps.
37. Petronas Twin Towers – Most Iconic Of All
This is one of the most iconic places to visit in Malaysia . The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the Kuala Lumpur skyline and have become a part of the local culture and national identity. The Petronas Towers consists of two towers named as tower 1 and tower 2. Tower 1 is fully occupied by Petronas and its subsidiaries, and Tower 2 has been made available to various companies for office space on lease including Microsoft, Reuters, Al Jazeera English, Boeing, IBM, TCS and many more.
Location: C oncourse Level, Lower Ground, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The upmarket retail center of Suria KLCC is known for expensive foreign goods and branded labels. The retail center includes an aquarium and a science center all located at the feet of the Petronas Towers. Entry Fee: INR 1400 for adults and INR 560 for kids Tip: The sky bridge tickets are free, and you can tip a bellboy or taxi driver to get your ticket for you.
Suggested Read: 7 Most Luxuriating Cruises In Malaysia To Be Explored
38. Sunway Lagoon – Embrace That Inner Child
Sunway Lagoon theme park is one of the places to visit in Malaysia with your family. It is a water park which offers a lot of rides and other things to do which are suitable for all age groups. With plenty of attractions and a bounty of fun activities in its store, a Sunway Lagoon tour often beguiles people to extend their excursion and enjoy every bit of it.
Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/20, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: There are various parks like the water park, amusement park, wildlife park, extreme park, scream park, etc. where people can have the best time of their lives. Entry Fee: INR 2900 for adults and INR 2400 for kids. Tip: To save money, one must travel by public transport which may take around 1.5 hours.
Suggested Read: 27 Exotic Places To Visit In Langkawi For Soaking In The Soothing Malay Vibes
39. Islamic Arts Museum – An Insight Into The Culture
As they say art is the best way to express something the Islamic Arts Museum just goes on to be the living proof of the same. Opened for visitors on 12th December 1998 thee museum is located in Perdana Botanical Garden and lies right in the heart of the city. Being the largest Islamic Art Museum in South East Asia, it is one of the popular places to visit in Malayasia . This Islamic Arts Museum contains 7000 artefacts which represent Islamic culture.
Location: Perdana, Jalan Lembah, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Major Attractions: The Quran and manuscripts gallery, the Chinese gallery and Indian gallery at Level 3 are definitely attention capturing. Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults; INR 10 for children Tip: Don’t miss out on the fascinating galleries at this museum.
Suggested Read: 8 Captivative Places To Visit In Sarawak Malaysia For Your Vacay
40. Batu Caves – Magnet For Adventure Enthusiasts
Basically a limestone hill, Batu Caves is located almost 13 km away from the capital city. Even the novice can also try their hand at rock climbing with the help of local trainers here. It is quite popular among the top places to visit in Malaysia , for the adventure enthusiasts.
Location: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia Major Attractions: The steep inclination of Batu Caves possess a major challenge for adventure enthusiasts. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee (for rock climbing, fees differ with organizing companies) Tip: Follow the instructions of the trainer to ensure your safety.
Suggested Read: Top 7 Places To Visit In Southern Malaysia For A Perfect Vacay
41. Kek Lok Si Temple – Popular Amidst Pilgrims
Built in the year 1891, Kek Lok Si Temple is tagged as one of the significant Malaysia attractions . This is a Chinese-Buddhist temple that is often called ‘The Temple of Supreme Bliss’. Kek Lok Si Temple is home to an extensive number of images of Buddha. This temple is one of the largest ones in Malaysia and witnesses and impeccable footfall of pilgrims throughout the Southeastern region of Asia. One can witness around 10,000 carvings of Buddha at this temple.
Location: Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia Major Attractions: 10,000 carvings of Buddha on the walls. There is a hill entrance to the temple and it is home to various stalls serving food, drinks, and selling souvenirs. Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Tip: Take back some Buddhist souvenirs for your friends and family back home.
Further Read: Visit Malaysia In April: A Guide To Tasting Fusion Food And Exploring Malaysian Culture
These Malaysia tourist attractions will conjure up images in your head long after you have quit the country. It is not unusual for travelers to return to the country after visiting it once. This is because Malaysia offers the best hospitality in the world. Don’t believe us? Book your trip to Malaysia with TravelTriangle and see it for yourself.
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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Malaysia Tourist Attractions
Is Malaysia worth visiting?
Malaysia has been counted in the list of the top destinations to visit in South-East Asia and every traveler must explore this country at least once in their lifetime.
Where should I go for 2 days in Malaysia?
If you are planning a short trip to Malaysia then make sure that you visit the top Malaysia tourist attractions including Petronas Twin Towers, Putrajaya, Bukit Bintang, KL City Gallery, and Mitsui Outlet Park.
Which is the best place to visit in Malaysia?
A trip to Malaysia is incomplete without exploring Kuala Lumpur as it is one of the best places to explore in the country.
What is Malaysia famous for?
If you are planning a Malaysia vacation then you must explore its coastal regions like Langkawi, local food, and the famous Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
What is Malaysia’s famous food?
The most popular dish from Malaysian cuisine is nasi lemak which is prepared with steamed rice. Rice is prepared in coconut milk along with pandan leaves and is served with different kinds of meat.
What is Malaysia’s national dish?
The national dish of Malaysia has been declared as nasi lemak which is a common local dish preferred by the locals. The rice is steamed in coconut milk and pandan leaves which gives it a rich fragrance.
How many days are enough for Malaysia?
It is advisable to spend at least a week in Malaysia to explore famous destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Along with this, you will also need a few days for indulging in activities. So, a trip to 6-7 days will justify the beauty of this place.
How safe is Malaysia for tourists?
In comparison to other countries like Indonesia and Thailand, Malaysia is considered to be safe for tourists.
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The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Malaysia
Wondering where to go in Malaysia? With its diverse landscapes, culture and activities, it can be hard to know where to start. If that’s the case for you, try our guide to the country’s most beautiful places to visit. From walking around Unesco-listed historical marvels to exploring 130-million-year-old jungle, you’ll always have plenty of things to see and do in Malaysia .
Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .
Malacca City, Malacca
Malacca City, capital of Malacca State, oozes with history and culture. Listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2008, the colonial city along the Strait of Malacca attracts visitors with local architecture, food and famous Jonker Street Night Market. Not only has it experienced periods under the Portuguese and Dutch, but the 15th-century Malacca Sultanate is widely considered to be a golden age for Malay culture. St Paul’s Church, A Famosa Fort and Stadthuys (the official residence of the Dutch governor) are top attractions.
George Town is an open museum. The colonial district boasts a wide selection of British buildings and churches, and is home to Fort Cornwallis. Stroll through the streets and see traditional shophouses, each with an individual style and design. Street art and murals decorate the walls too. Combine this history with temples (including Kek Lok Si), food courts, a vibrant shopping scene and the longest coffee shop in the country, and George Town is absolutely the place to go in Malaysia.
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The Perhentians, Terengganu
The Perhentian Islands are a small archipelago in the South China Sea off the coast of Terengganu. They are consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia. The region is comprised of seven islands in total, five of which remain uninhabited; the other two are named Besar and Kecil. If you fancy holidaying there, picture white sand stretching around sparsely populated areas, while crystal-clear water laps against the shore. Favourite activities include scuba diving, snorkelling and canoeing. Avoid coming between March and October though, as that’s when most hotels and guesthouses close.
Danum Valley, Sabah
Are you an ecotourist? Then Danum Valley is by far your best place to visit in Malaysia, as you get to experience untouched jungle with incredible biodiversity. Inside the 169sqmi (438sqkm) conservation area are hundreds, if not thousands, of fauna and flora species. Among the untamed wilds, you may well spot orangutans , pygmy elephants or a clouded leopard. Activities include jungle treks with experienced guides, night safaris and visiting ancient Kadazan-Dusun burial sites.
Most who visit the state of Kedah spend their time in Langkawi. But, approximately 34mi (55km) southeast of the popular island sits an unexplored city called Alor Setar. The central square features the intricate Zahir Mosque, the Big Clock Building, the Royal Hall and the Sultan Museum. A little further afield, you can visit the 218m (715ft) and 250 million-year-old Gunung Keriang limestone hill. Head to nearby Kuala Kedah and walk through the ruins of a 17th-century Malay fort, the oldest in Northern Malaysia.
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, might not appear beautiful at first. However, behind the malls and buildings lie stretches of orange sand, islands reachable within 10 minutes, and the iconic floating mosque. Head to Tanjung Aru Beach for a spectacular sunset, or stroll along Likas Bay to marvel at the coast and islands. The five islands, known as Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, are a brilliant day trip for snorkelling, beaches and relaxation. Drive a short distance from the city and find untouched jungle.
Ipoh, Perak
Ipoh is fast becoming an obvious answer to the question of where to go in Malaysia. The historical core consists of colonial buildings and traditional shophouses, while a plethora of Buddhist and Hindu cave temples surround the city. Kellie’s Castle, an incomplete former colonial mansion, is a short drive from the city too.
The Cameron Highlands, Pahang
British surveyor, William Cameron, discovered the Cameron Highlands in 1885 and it has only grown since as a tourist hotspot. Today, emerald green tea plantations dominate the skyline, along with strawberry and vegetable farms. If you plan on going, you’ll almost definitely enjoy the cooler climate and the opportunities to go hiking.
Pangkor Island, Perak
Pangkor Island consists of a small archipelago in the Strait of Malacca. Once a haven for sailors and pirates, Pangkor Island has remained unchanged for decades, thus giving you the chance to experience an undeveloped tropical paradise – the population is just 30,000. The main activities are relaxing on the beach, motorbike rental and driving around the perimeter, as well as diving and snorkelling. In Teluk Nipah on the west coast, the owner of Sunset View Chalet feeds or more wild hornbills every night at 6.30pm.
Pulau Tioman, Pahang
Back in the ’70s, Time Magazine mentioned Pulau Tioman as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Little has changed since then. With untouched beaches and dense rainforest, the island offers a more secluded feel than the likes of Langkawi. Favourite activities include snorkelling and scuba diving. There’s also trekking in the jungle, touring the island on a motorbike or bicycle, and plenty of opportunities to see gorgeous waterfalls.
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Malaysia Travel Guide
Last Updated: September 2, 2023
Malaysia is one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia . While the country does see a fair share of backpackers, it sees only a fraction compared to popular neighbors Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
In my opinion, people are missing out.
From the dense urban jungle of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches of the Perhentian Islands , from the jungles in the interior to the delicious food, Malaysia has a ton to offer travelers.
Explore tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands , trek through the vast national parks of Gunung Mulu and Taman Negara, and admire incredible wildlife, including tigers, elephants, sun bears, and more.
Or head to Borneo to look for wild orangutans, hike through the rainforest, and marvel at the knife-sharp peak of Mount Kinabalu.
All too often, travelers breeze through Malaysia on their way to places like Thailand or Singapore. I’d encourage you not to make that same mistake as there is a ton to see and do here — and it’s all super affordable.
This Malaysia travel guide will give you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time in this incredible destination!
Table of Contents
- Things to See and Do
- Typical Costs
- Suggested Budget
- Money-Saving Tips
- Where to Stay
- How to Get Around
- How to Stay Safe
- Best Places to Book Your Trip
- Related Blogs on Malaysia
Click Here for City Guides
Top 5 things to see and do in malaysia.
1. Visit Kuala Lumpur
Chances are you’ll be spending at least a few nights in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur . Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, see the famous Sri Mahamariamman Temple, explore the Batu Caves, and see the colorful butterfly garden. It’s a great foodie city too.
2. Dive in the Perhentian Islands
These islands are hugely popular with snorkelers and divers because of their reefs and crystalline waters filled with a wide variety of coral, turtles, sharks, and reef-fish. They are getting more popular every year but are a beautiful respite from the tourist-packed islands in Thailand.
3. Visit George Town
George Town is Malaysia’s most enchanting city, with Chinese temples next to mosques and colonial British Raj architecture amongst modern skyscrapers. George Town’s crisscrossing streets teem with bustling shops, historic buildings, and busy cafes.
4. Hike Mount Kinabalu National Park
Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and a popular hiking trek in which you make your way through dense jungle to reach the summit. Admission is 15 MYR, a climbing permit is 200 MYR, and mandatory insurance is 7 MYR. There are only a set amount of permits allowed per day and you must make go with a guide so plan ahead!
5. Tour the tea plantations
Other things to see and do in malaysia, 1. go wildlife spotting.
Malaysia has a rich diversity of wildlife. Orangutans, Malaysian tigers, Monitor Lizards, and Sumatran Rhinos are all indigenous to the country (Borneo and Sumatra and the only places in the world with wild orangutans). Malaysia’s national parks and wildlife reserves are the best places to go to see wildlife, including Taman Negara and Bako National Park. For Orangutans, go to Borneo. Most day tours cost under 500 MYR, while multi-day tours start around 1,500-2,650 MYR.
2. Dive Sipadan Island
Sipadan Island is one of the world’s best dive sites. The famous French explorer Jacques Cousteau declared the island an “untouched piece of art” — and he wasn’t wrong! Barracudas, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and greenback and hawksbill turtles fill these crystal waters. Only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts (located on neighboring islands) each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days, diving the surrounding areas, before they can get a Sipadan permit. A 3-dive package at Uncle Chang’s, a budget-friendly dive lodge, costs 550 MYR.
3. Explore Taman Negara National Park
At an estimated 130 million years old, Taman Negara is the oldest rainforest in the world. You can embark on the world’s largest canopy walk, take a 4×4 safari to look for elephants and tigers, go spelunking, or visit some Orang Asli villages (belonging to the country’s Indigenous peoples). Admission is 1 MYR, and 5 MYR if you want to take photos within the park.
4. Relax at Pulau Langkawi
Featured in thousands of different magazines, websites, and articles, Pulau Langkawi is a picturesque retreat on an archipelago of more than 100 islands made up of white sandy beaches and endless sunshine. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach area, especially for its strip of restaurants, bars, and shops. For something slower, visit some of the area’s traditional villages, go snorkeling at Payar Island, or check out the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls on the northwest side of the island. This is one of the best places in the country to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a slower pace of life.
5. Go whitewater rafting
Outside of diving, Malaysia is also known for its challenging whitewater rafting conditions. You can find all grades of rafting on the rivers here, and prices start around 200 MYR for a half-day excursion. Kuala Kubu Bharu River and Ulu Slim River are two popular options.
6. Understand Malaysia’s colonial roots
Malaysia has a tumultuous colonial past. The country was annexed by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British before finally gaining independence. For a deeper understanding of this history, visit Malacca (Melaka). Located just two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum offers an in-depth overview of Malaysia’s colonial past. Admission to the museum is 16 MYR.
7. Tour Borneo
Just to the east of Malaysia is Borneo, the third-largest island in the world and home to some of the most diverse rainforests on the planet. Pair that with unlimited wildlife viewing opportunities (including endangered orangutans and proboscis monkeys), and rich Indigenous culture, and you’ve got the makings of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If you’re an experienced climber, you can also climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia at 4,095 meters (13,400 feet) high.
8. Visit the temples
Malaysia has countless beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples scattered all around the country. Some of the most impressive temples include the Batu Caves (Kuala Lumpur), Sri Mahamariamman (Kuala Lumpur), Thean Hou (Kuala Lumpur), Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani (George Town), and Sam Poh Tong (Ipoh). As most temples are still practicing centers of worship, appropriate dress is required to enter. Admission is always free.
9. Dine on street food
Malaysia’s mix of cultures means that there’s an incredible variety of delicious and cheap street food to enjoy here. Markets and roadside stalls are great places to pick up hawker food and dine on a budget. Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Alor, Little India, and Chinatown all have tons of inexpensive food stalls with prices starting at 2-4 MYR. You can also take a street food tour to dive in-depth into food culture and history for around 260 MYR.
10. Celebrate Deepavali
Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights and is one of the biggest Hindu celebrations in Malaysia. Also known as Diwali, Dipavali, Dewali, Deepawali, or the Festival of Lights, it’s celebrated in October or November for five days. Traditionally, people host open houses, light candles, have fireworks displays, and serve Indian delicacies. In Kuala Lumpur, the biggest celebrations are in Brickfields (Little India).
11. Go jungle trekking
Don’t miss out on exploring Malaysia’s lush landscapes and dense forests while you’re here. The Cameron Highlands are a great place to go trekking, with 14 trekking routes heading out from the main town of Tanah Rata. Most of the hikes lead to waterfalls and scenic views, but if you want a more challenging trek, you’re required to hire a guide and obtain a permit. Eco Cameron Tours offers 4-hour group tours for 80 MYR per person, including a visit to the famous Mossy Forest (a lush forest with ferns, moss, orchids, and a pedestrian boardwalk).
12. Shop at the markets
Indoor and outdoor markets, operating both morning and night, are everywhere in Malaysia. You can get everything at the markets, from prepared food and produce to clothing and souvenirs. They’re also a great way to experience local culture. Don’t be afraid to barter and haggle – it’s what the locals do! If you don’t want to shop, come here to people-watch and take in the local pace of life.
13. Visit Masjid Negara
Malaysia’s national mosque, this huge house of worship in Kuala Lumpur has the capacity to hold 15,000 people. Opened in 1965, its bright blue star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam (over 60% of Malaysia is Muslim). Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the National Mosque outside of prayer time. Be sure to dress modestly, although there are robes available to put over your clothing as well. It’s free to enter.
14. Help the sea turtles
Malaysia’s islands are great places to see turtles, either by diving, snorkeling, or volunteering. In the Perhentian Islands, the Perhentian Turtle Project accepts volunteers for multi-week stays from April to September. A two-week volunteer program costs 3,621 MYR, with food and accommodation. All money raised goes toward helping the turtles, who face extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and pollution.
For more information on specific cities in Malaysia, check out these guides:
- Cameron Highlands Travel Guide
- Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
- Perhentian Islands Travel Guide
Malaysia Travel Costs
Accommodation – A bed in a 4-6-bed hostel dorm costs 35-70 MYR per night. A bed in a room with 10 or more beds can cost as little as 20 MYR per night. Popular destinations like the Cameron Highlands and Perhentian Islands are on the higher end of the spectrum. A private hostel room costs around 105-130 MYR per night. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common, though most hostels do not have kitchens if you want to cook your own food.
Camping is popular in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands as a way to save on accommodation costs. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot without electricity.
Budget hotels with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free breakfast start around 75-90 MYR per night. For a three-star hotel with more amenities (such as a swimming pool), expect to pay closer to 200-300 MYR per night.
Airbnb is available throughout the country, mainly offering entire homes and apartments catering specifically to travelers. These start at 100-160 MYR per night.
Food – Malaysian cuisine, like the country itself, features a mix of cultures. China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore have all influenced the country’s dishes. Rice or noodles are the basis of most dishes, and seafood and fish feature prominently, especially on the islands and coastal areas. As a Muslim-majority country, chicken and beef are common and are usually halal. Popular vegetables include cabbage, bean sprouts, lotus root, sweet potatoes, taro, and long beans.
The unofficial national dish is nasi lemak , fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, flavored with pandan leaf, and accompanied by different sides, usually served for breakfast. Other popular Malaysian dishes include roti canai (a sweet or savory flatbread), ikan bakar laksa (spicy noodle soup), and many different regional fried noodle and fried rice dishes.
Steamboat (known in other countries as hot pot), a method of dining in which you cook meat and vegetables in a boiling pot, is popular as well.
Street food (like stuffed pancakes, skewers, and bowls of noodle soup) is the cheapest and most delicious way to eat in Malaysia. Each dish costs only 5 MYR-15 MYR. Snacks like skewers cost 2-6 MYR.
You can expect to pay 10-20 MYR for a meal in a Malaysian restaurant, including food like nasi lemak and rojak (chopped fruit and dough). Simple dishes like fried noodles or a bowl of soup are no more than 13-17 MYR each.
Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 14 MYR for a combo meal, but other western meals can be double or triple that. Pizza, burgers, or pasta can cost up to 50 MYR.
A beer costs 13-17 MYR and a glass of wine is 20-27 MYR. Cocktails are pretty expensive at 20-45 MYR so I’d skip them if you can. A cappuccino is 8-12 MYR.
A week’s worth of groceries costs between 90-150 MYR for basic staples like rice, noodles, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. Stick to local food items, as western specialties like wine and cheese will destroy your grocery budget.
Backpacking Malaysia Suggested Budgets
If you’re backpacking Malaysia, my suggested budget is 115 MYR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, taking public transit to get around, skipping alcohol, and sticking to mostly free activities like walking tours, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.
A mid-range budget of 295 MYR per day covers a private Airbnb or private hostel room, drinking more, taking the occasional taxi to get around, eating street food and the occasional sit-down meal, and doing more paid activities like museum visits, food tours, and diving.
On a “luxury” budget of 520 MYR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel with a pool, eat at restaurants for all your meals, have more drinks, visit the islands, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!
You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MYR.
Malaysia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
A little goes a long way in Malaysia, but it’s still easy to wreck your budget here if you splash out on fancy meals and tours. Here are some ways you can save money in Malaysia:
- Barter with your taxi driver – Taxis aren’t usually metered in Malaysia (even though it’s required in bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur), so make sure to agree on the fare before you set off. Ask your hotel/hostel staff what you should pay so you don’t get ripped off.
- Camp – It’s possible to camp in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands to save on accommodation. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot.
- Eat the street food – Street stalls are the place to go for delicious hawker food and meals that cost just a few bucks. The street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest!
- Don’t drink – As Malaysia is a Muslim country, drinking is frowned upon, but it does happen. However, to restrict it, the authorities have made drinking very, very expensive so skip the booze.
- Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is a great way to explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget. You’ll not only get to see the sights, but you’ll connect with a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice.
- Travel in the off-season – Traveling during the monsoon season (late November to mid-February) is an easy way to save money on flights and accommodation. With significantly fewer visitors, everything is cheaper. To avoid the worst of the rains, skip the east coast.
- Use Grab – Grab is like Uber and often cheaper than both taxis and tuk-tuks, especially if you’re getting a ride from the airport in Kuala Lumpur. Just download the app and go!
- Escape the city – Much of the popular areas in Kuala Lumpur are designed for tourists and can be expensive. Skip the crowds and head to somewhere like Pataling Jaya, a smaller nearby city that has all the perks of KL with none of the downsides.
- Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t always safe so bring a water bottle with a filter with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
Where to Stay in Malaysia
Looking for budget-friendly places to stay? Here are my suggested places to stay in Malaysia:
- Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala lumpur)
- Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala lumpur)
- Birdnest Collective Cafe & Guesthouse (Kuala lumpur)
- The Bed Klcc (Kuala lumpur)
- Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
- Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
- Westwood Highland (Cameron Highlands)
- De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
- Hikers Sleep Port (Cameron Highlands)
- Anis View Perhentian (Perhentian Islands)
- Senja Bay Resort (Perhentian Islands)
- Besut Guesthouse (Perhentian Islands)
- Akinabalu Youth Hostel (Kota Kinabalu)
How to Get Around Malaysia
Public transportation – Most cities in Malaysia have excellent public transport, especially Kuala Lumpur with its buses, light rail, commuter rail, and monorail that all connect every part of the city. A ride costs between 1-15 MYR. If you plan on mostly using public transit, pick up a Touch ‘n Go (TnG) card to use on all modes of public transportation, saving 20% per ride. You can also load unlimited transit passes onto this card.
In Kuala Lumpur, try to use the free GO KL City Bus. It’s a free service that covers most of the tourist hotspots, like Bukit Bintang and Chinatown.
Other cities, like George Town (Penang), are full of city buses that run all over the island. The KOMTAR complex and the Weld Quay jetty are the two primary bus stations. You’ll have to tell your driver where you’re headed, but a typical one-way fare is 2-7 MYR. There are also free buses that go to significant sites in the city, just look for buses labeled “Free CAT Bus.”
Bus – Buses are an easy and efficient way to get around Malaysia. Expect to pay around 5-15 MYR per hour for a bus trip. The main bus companies include:
- Transnasional
Aeroline and Super Nice are high-end services that come with air-conditioning and sometimes even meal service, but they’re still affordable. The 5-hour bus from Penang to Kuala Lumpur costs around 35-45 MYR, while the 3-hour bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands costs about 44 MYR.
Train – Mainland Malaysia has 1,849 kilometers (1,149 miles) of rail, with the main line connecting Singapore to Kuala Lumpur to Thailand.
There are two types of service: express trains, which are air-conditioned and have three different classes; and local trains, which usually only have economy class and are much slower than the express trains. All are operated by Keratapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), the national railway service.
You can use the KTMB.com.my website to look up schedules and to book tickets. Reservations open 30 days in advance.
A train from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (where you’d catch the ferry to Penang) costs 66 MYR, while the 2.5-hour journey from Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur is 30-45 MYR.
In East Malaysia, there is a round-trip sightseeing train that runs from Kota Kinabalu to Papar, with a stop in Kinarut. The North Borneo Railway runs the entire trip, and it takes four hours. The cost is 345 MYR, which includes breakfast and lunch.
Flying – The two leading domestic airlines in Malaysia are Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia. Kuala Lumpur’s airports receive the most flight traffic, followed by Kota Kinabalu and Penang. There are several smaller airports around the country as well.
A flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur can be found for as little as 100 MYR, while a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok ranges between 220-600 MYR. Flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu cost around 225-300 MYR.
Hitchhike – It is common for people to hitchhike in Malaysia, and the locals are eager to pick up travelers. HitchWiki has additional information on hitchhiking in Malaysia.
When to Go to Malaysia
Malaysia’s two peak seasons occur from the start of December to the end of January, and then from June to mid-September. The first tourist peak season occurs during Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr), which celebrates the end of Ramadan. Check ahead to see when this occurs as the dates vary every year. Malaysia’s Muslim population celebrates by taking the week off so your travels could be disrupted if businesses are closed.
Late November to mid-February brings the arrival of the northeast monsoon, affecting much of the east coast with heavy rainfall. September and October are the wettest months on the west coast, with downpours sometimes going on for hours. This is also true in mountainous areas like the Cameron Highlands.
Overall, the best time to visit is from March to early November when it’s drier and less humid. Visiting just after the rainy season isn’t a bad idea either, as it’s still warm, the countryside is lush and full of waterfalls, and tourism is still not overly busy.
Temperatures do not fluctuate much across the country. The daily average is 22-32°C (73-90°F), while in the hills the temperature averages 21°C (67°F). Humidity is high year-round.
How to Stay Safe in Malaysia
Malaysia is safe place to backpack and travel — even for solo travelers and solo female travelers. Violent attacks against foreigners are rare.
Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Malaysia. When out and about, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. This is especially important in crowded tourist areas and on busy public transportation. Don’t leave anything valuable unattended at the beach either.
Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though walking alone a night should be avoided just to be safe.
There are some common scams here, especially in Kuala Lumpur, such as taxi drivers trying to rip off passengers. Make sure the meter is on or negotiate your fare before getting in a taxi (or take a Grab to avoid this altogether).
If you’re worried about getting ripped off, read about common travel scams to avoid here .
If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. That will prevent would-be thieves from snatching your bag quickly while you’re busy eating.
When out in nature, don’t feed the monkeys! They get aggressive and are not afraid of people. Do not approach monkeys quickly or give them treats, as they grab anything within reach.
If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.
Additionally, avoid tap water unless you have a water bottle with a filter. Travelers should also note that Malaysia is a modest country, so revealing outfits attract more attention. To be safe and blend in, dress conservatively.
Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:
Malaysia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
- Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
- Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
- Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
- SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
- LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
- Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Malaysia Travel Guide: Related Articles
Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:
The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok
The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore
Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit
The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei
The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong
17 Things to See and Do in Taiwan
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Everything you need to know before visiting Malaysia
Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read
Malaysia is a beautifully diverse country with tons to see and do – here's what you should know before you go © ibnjaafar / Getty Images
Dynamic, multi-cultural, and hugely underrated, Malaysia is Southeast Asia's unsung tropical hero. Marrying tradition, nature and modernity, it's a country of space-age cityscapes, Islamic minarets and gilded Chinese shrines. It's a world where South Indian temples back onto million-year-old rainforests, and this mish-mash can confuse first-timers.
From what to pack to navigating the nation's ethnic and religious tapestry, these are the top things to know before you embark on a trip to Malaysia – an experience that can often feel like being in several countries at once.
1. Malaysia is a dazzlingly diverse country
Be prepared for many types of culture shock. In multi-ethnic yet predominantly Islamic Peninsular Malaysia, a 69.8% majority of Malay Muslims share the land with ethnic Chinese, Tamil Indians and a dozen aboriginal groups categorized as orang asli (original peoples). This means that red lantern-studded Chinese temples sit next to Hindu gopurams (temple gates) and the onion-shaped domes of intricate, modern mosques. Prayers go up to the sky in three main languages – Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Tamil – and to three main religions: Islam, Chinese Taoism and Hinduism.
A short flight away across the South China Sea, the East Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah in Borneo feel like another world. The former has some 26 different ethnic groups, most of whom are Christian or Protestant, while Sabah is home to another 33 who communicate in over 50 languages and 80 dialects .
2. Pack for an eternal summer – but carry a light jacket
Tropical Malaysia enjoys steamy temperatures hovering around 86°F (30°C) year-round. All you really need to pack are light, loose-fitting cotton clothes to best cope with heat and humidity, and a pair of sneakers and flip-flops. If you forget anything, you can pick it up here. Also pack a hoodie or light jacket to prepare for the Malaysian habit of keeping air conditioning to frosty levels, especially inside shopping malls, buses and trains.
3. Technology is widely available…
Kuala Lumpur must be one of the world's most futuristic cities, with ever-expanding highways, towers and skyscrapers eternally contending for space. Beyond the capital, there's excellent 4G mobile network coverage and fast wifi at most hotels and guest houses across the nation. Celcom is the best operator when traveling the Peninsula's jungly interior and Borneo.
4. …but carry cash in the interior
ATMS (cashpoints) are widely available but thin out in the countryside, and they are often hard to find outside of Borneo's main cities. Stock up on the local currency, the Malaysian ringgit, if planning to go off the grid.
5. The food is something to write home about
The delightfully spicy intricacies of Malaysian food (a concoction of curries, southern Chinese cuisines and pan-Indian dishes that never stop intermarrying) are best consumed fresh off the street, served without embellishments by local "uncles" – slang for older person – on plastic plates.
The alternative is to sit and rub elbows with locals at a food court, or "hawker center" – large open areas, usually covered by a rooftop, packed with simple food stalls squeezed one against the other.
6. Partying is a bit more expensive
Compared to its backpacker-centric Southeast Asian neighbors Thailand , Cambodia and Vietnam , Malaysia is a more expensive party destination because of heavy taxes on alcohol, which is forbidden to Muslims. The rest of the population is free to drink but forced to pay a higher price.
Alcohol is widely available in major tourist cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Ipoh , Melaka and Johor Bahru, while in smaller towns, beer is most often available at Chinese-run businesses. The best antidote to steep drinks and cigarette prices is a visit to the tax-free islands of Langkawi and Tioman .
7. Dress casual but modest
Due to the constant heat, Malaysia's dress code is very casual. Wearing short pants, sandals, flip-flops and t-shirts is the accepted norm everywhere but is considered rude when visiting public offices, where long slacks, close-toed shoes and collared shirts are expected. In Malaysia's many kampung (villages), avoid revealing outfits to comply with local religious sensibilities.
Modesty is also essential when choosing your beachwear. Bikinis and speedos are fine at big hotels, resorts and the tourist islands off the East Coast, such as Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang. But it's best to wear one-piece bathing suits and knee-length swimming trunks on any other beach, where the locals dip fully clothed.
8. It's OK to speak in English if you don't know Malay
Picking up some survival Bahasa Malaysia (Malay language), the national lingo, is pretty straightforward – with its Roman alphabet and absence of tones, it's one of the easiest Asian languages to learn. But it's fine to speak English, especially with Malaysian Chinese and Indians, whose mother tongues are not Malay. Blame it on the British colonization, but practically everyone can communicate in English, and most prefer to do so when talking to foreigners.
9. You might be unknowingly rude
When pointing at someone or something, use the thumb and not the index finger, which is considered rude in Malaysia. Always keep your voice down, for raising the tone is an absolute no-no – like asking direct questions, which many Malaysians may take as "losing face" or an invasion of their personal space.
When shaking hands, always remember to use your right hand, for the left is considered "toilet hand" in any Islamic culture. The only dining etiquette that matters in Malaysia is to never use the left hand when trying to eat with fingers like many locals do.
10. Respect nature, and its spirits
When a bunch of foreign tourists bared their bottoms on top of Mount Kinabalu in 2015, enraged Kadazan-Dusun locals blamed their act for the consequent magnitude 5.9 earthquake that killed at least 16 and snapped one of the sacred mountain top's two iconic "Donkey Ear" outcrops.
The animist beliefs that predate the arrival of Islam to the Malay Peninsula have helped foster a highly regarded supernatural world in which nature plays a crucial role. For example, it's common to "ask for permission" before urinating in the jungle, from where locals never bring anything back for fear of piggybacking a curse into their own homes.
Whenever a group enters a forest, it's best to give out nicknames or not call out each other at all – spirits are always listening. The orang bunian (invisible forest-dwelling creatures comparable to elves) can trick hikers and campers into following them deep into the jungle to never be seen again.
11. Call 999 for any emergency
A single three-digit number, 999, connects to the police, the fire department, the ministry of health, the maritime enforcement agency and the Department of Civil Defence. Dial 999 112 if calling from a mobile phone.
12. Boil the tap water
Because of increasing pollution of water sources and aging buildings fitted with rusted pipes, it's always best to boil tap water before drinking, or buy mineral water. Most hotels allow guests to refill their water containers. Carrying a water filtration system or purifying tablets can come in handy when striking out on multi-day hikes.
13. Vaccines are recommended
It is advisable to travel to Malaysia after being inoculated against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid. Malaria is generally not an issue in cities and most forested areas, so a prophylaxis is not strictly necessary. Dengue fever occurs sporadically in cities, but as there are no vaccines for it, the best strategy is to not get bitten by mosquitoes – use heavy-duty insect repellent.
Malaysia is one of Asia's top medical tourism destinations and boasts private hospitals equipped with excellent facilities. Make sure to have proper health insurance coverage, or be ready to pay for the premium.
14. Beware of snatch thieves
Traveling in Malaysia is generally a pretty safe experience for travelers of both sexes, but whether they travel solo or in groups, female travelers should pay attention when walking along the busiest roads of capital Kuala Lumpur – keep your bags away from the roadside, for motorbike snatch thieves are well-known to target women, and some attacks have resulted in a victim's death.
15. How to travel safely for LGBTQI+ travelers
While a 2021 court ruling suggests change may be afoot, same-sex relationships are not only taboo in Malaysia, they're banned by federal law. For the LGBTQI+ communities here, the golden rule is to avoid publicizing relationships. In fact, public displays of affection are frowned upon in Malaysia in general, no matter your sexual orientation.
16. Drug offenses can get you to the gallows
Stay away from drugs in Malaysia, where 200g of cannabis, 15g of morphine or heroin, and 40g of cocaine mean a death sentence. Offenders are shaken down extremely hard or jailed even for carrying much less.
This article was first published February 2022 and updated February 2024
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The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024
T O BORROW from the poet Mary Oliver, what will you do with your few wild and precious vacation days? Now’s the time for figuring that out—and after looking at the latest travel trends, notable openings and immersive itineraries, we’ve got ideas. On this list of the 10 places we’re most excited about visiting this year, you’ll find spots still refreshingly free of tourist crowds but also new reasons to love the blockbuster destinations you thought you already knew. Whatever your preferred style of travel—from island-hopping by canoe in the Land of 10,000 Lakes to following your stomach around one of South America’s most exciting culinary hubs—we’re confident something here will unlock an urge to pack up and go.
The pandemic might have brought Belmond’s swanky Eastern & Oriental Express train to a temporary halt, but the luxury travel company used the downtime to refresh the train’s wood-paneled cabins with wickerwork and Malaysian embroidery, and brought Taiwanese chef André Chiang on board to steer restaurants that will feature a fusion of Southeast Asian cuisines. The train’s new routes, which launch in February, spotlight Malaysia’s wildly diverse landscapes. Excursions include Vespa tours around historic George Town, beach breaks on jungle-cloaked Langkawi island and treks in the rainforests of Taman Negara to spot hornbills, tapirs, and—for the very lucky—Malayan tigers. Fresh hotel openings in Kuala Lumpur, a food-mad city that just launched its first Michelin guide, make for an excellent excuse to linger before heading to the train station. Homegrown brand Else Retreats opened its first boutique hotel in the 1930s Lee Rubber Building in Chinatown, and the Park Hyatt will soon take over the top floors of Merdeka 118, the second-tallest tower in the world.
Lamu, Kenya
Kenya’s wildlife-rich safari parks remain its main draw, but new developments in Lamu, a palm-tufted island just off the country’s northeastern coast, offer sunseekers a pleasingly culture-packed and hushed alternative to the big-ticket resorts of Mombasa and Zanzibar. Global highfliers weathered the pandemic in the whitewashed luxury villas of Lamu’s ritzy Shela village, but the new Jannah Lamu, a scattered collection of suites by Kenya-raised designer Anna Trzebinski, makes the cobblestoned Old Town, East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlement, newly enticing. The recently launched NaiSabah, a traditional Omani dhow boat with three staterooms and a breezy deck decorated with intricate woodwork, offers multi-night itineraries around the Lamu archipelago, promising days packed with beach picnics, diving expeditions and nature walks. Finally, the Lamu Museum, which reopened last October after a year-long refurbishment, delivers a dose of cultural and historical context to this fascinating one-time trading hub—and a welcome respite from all that sunshine.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
The “Black Summer” bush fires of 2019-2020 destroyed half of its wildlife habitat, but in the years since, Kangaroo Island—9 miles off Australia’s southern coast—has bounced back. Nicknamed Australia’s Galápagos, this 1,700-square-mile speck of land is once again one of the best places to encounter wild koalas and kangaroos, along with penguins, whales, platypuses and wallabies. Two new lodges come staffed with seasoned guides who take the guesswork out of finding these creatures. Sea Dragon, a boutique hotel planted atop 250 acres of sea-facing land, reopened in 2023 with stargazing and bird-watching walks as well as new safari-style expeditions. Southern Ocean Lodge, which burned down entirely, reopened in December in a lair-like seacliff aerie, offering sunrise run-ins with wild sea lions and sunset sessions fueled by local wines and forest truffles. New trails on the island include a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the aptly named seaside granite formations of Remarkable Rocks and the first sections of the planned 23-mile-long Dudley Peninsula Trail, beginning at the historic Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.
Kyushu, Japan
Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, has long drawn in-the-know visitors from mainland Asia. But lately a supersize dose of new tourism projects has made its night markets, temples and onsen (hot springs) more widely accessible. Last year saw the opening of Hoshino Resorts’ budget-friendly OMO5 in the buzzy city of Kumamoto, as well as the glass-wrapped Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka. This year, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki opens in a former orphanage for atomic bomb survivors, and indie upstart Takasaki Stay allows for more-comfortable visits to the nearby, laid-back Goto Islands. Kyushu’s Tourism Organization also launches four new itineraries focusing on local cuisine, ceramics and nature. Densha otaku (train geeks) will celebrate a new 5-hour sightseeing route launching in spring and serving seasonal bento boxes alongside views of the hissing volcanoes and rocky coastlines between Fukuoka’s Hakata Station and Beppu, Japan’s seaside onsen hub.
Kansas City, Mo.
Given the zeitgeist, it would be understandable to think Kansas City made this list because of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. But the city was set to deliver the goods long before it became a fixture of gossip columns. CPKC Stadium, one of the few soccer stadiums in the world built for a top-division women’s team, the Kansas City Current, will open in March, doubling as a venue for concerts, festivals and farmers markets. In other athletic firsts, KC will host pickleball’s inaugural PickleCon in August, with 100 courts devoted to the unstoppable sporting fad. Rock Island Bridge, a waterfront highline, will soon connect Kansas and Missouri with a string of bars and cafes. The outdoors-oriented will also be able to canoe or kayak in the Kansas River below. Pennway Point, a downtown entertainment district opening this spring, will feature a beer garden, a BBQ joint, live music and a Ferris wheel. Those looking for the city’s famous smoked meat and jazz can rest easy that even under the celebrity spotlight, the soul of the city remains intact.
Prague, Czech Republic
“Prague never lets you go. This dear little mother has sharp claws,” wrote Franz Kafka. And, judging by the tourist numbers, those claws have reach. This year ushers in a new reason, however, to visit the much-loved city. Kafka’s hometown is marking the 100th anniversary of the Czech-born, German-speaking Jewish writer’s death with events across the city. Beginning in March, Prague City Tourism will offer literary walking tours, and a vintage tram will carry bibliophiles to sites where the author lived and worked. In May, the Museum of Czech Literature unveils a new exhibition featuring multimedia installations, letters written by the author and early editions of his books. All summer, the Jewish Museum will host Kafka-focused film screenings in Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish quarter, while a mobile app called “Searching for Odradek,” a reference to a Kafka protagonist, will help re-create the Prague Kafka knew. Finally, the Goethe-Institut, a German cultural center, will be putting on a string of readings and theatrical productions. And when the Kafkaesque existential dread gets to be too much, the city’s legendary pubs await.
Quintana Roo, Mexico
Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula may be dismissed by some as a haven for spring breakers, but this year brings proof that there’s much more to the state of Quintana Roo than all-inclusive resorts. SHA Wellness Clinic, known for specialized longevity treatments, opens a branch this month in the town of Costa Mujeres. Architect Fabiano Continanza designed the slopes and spirals of the retreat’s building as a nod to the shape of the DNA molecule. An hour south, the Riviera Maya Edition hotel at Kanai just opened in a 620-acre nature reserve, its neutral-hued décor suggesting a sense of urban cool teleported deep into the jungle. Last month’s ribbon-cutting of a new airport in Tulum adds more fuel to that town’s decadeslong boom, but its quiet side still thrives at new boutique sites like XELA Tulum, a once-private villa renovated into a minimalist hotel. Near the border with Belize sits Bacalar, a diminutive town hugging a 26-mile-long translucent lagoon. Big chains like Banyan Tree have announced plans to move in soon, so get there before they do and check in to the new Boca de Agua hotel, crafted by Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped to design a forthcoming contemporary art wing at New York’s MoMA.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
In Buenos Aires, an often-lauded culinary scene is shining brighter than ever. The neighborhood of Belgrano presents a handy introduction to two core elements of daily life in Argentina: fútbol and meat. After a match at El Monumental, South America’s largest stadium, dine at Corte Comedor’s modern parrilla (or grill) with hard-to-find cuts of beef, succulent veggies and charcuterie from sister spot Corte Charcuteria. In the art-gallery-packed neighborhood of Villa Crespo, head to Chuí, which offers a surprisingly varied plant-based menu, or Julia, a 22-seater specializing in colorful French-leaning fare. In Chacarita, try the newcomer Ácido, which takes inspiration for its menu—plus its delightfully kitschy china—from grandmothers everywhere. At MN Santa Inés, in the low-key barrio of La Paternal, chef Jazmín Marturet plays with recipes developed during trips to Asia and Latin America. And for travelers who follow the stars, the grand finale awaits at the art-on-a-plate adventure on offer at Aramburu, granted two Michelin stars in November. Buen provecho.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minn.
You can still drink straight from many of the 1,200 lakes in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, the million-acre liquid maze just shy of the Canadian border. Often navigated via multiday canoe camping trips, this boreal wilderness grants its 250,000 annual visitors time on solid ground, too, in rustic lodges and on extensive island hiking trails. With mining interests eyeing the region, every tourist visit this year plays a pivotal role in the area’s conservation. Start yours with a drive along the Gunflint Trail, a 57-mile national scenic byway leading to the Boundary Waters. At midpoint, grab a cardamom roll from Loon’s Nest Coffee, opened in the fall of 2023, before joining a guided paddle with one of the many locally run outfitters. Come nightfall, check in to the freshly updated Gunflint Lodge, or upgrade your campsite with a mobile sauna delivered to your patch of woods by spa operators Sisu + Löyly. In the morning, wake up with the loons—and dunk your cup straight into the deep-blue water to hydrate.
Balearic Islands, Spain
Spain’s Balearic Islands are ditching their dance-all-night rep for something more Zen. Think fewer foam parties, more meditation circles. Ibiza, once synonymous with shot-slinging nights, now appeals to mindfulness mavens, a metamorphosis on full display at the Mirador de Dalt Vila, a Relais & Châteaux hotel aimed squarely at relaxers, not ravers. In Mallorca, Richard Branson’s new Son Bunyola hotel ditches the island’s DJ parties in favor of scenic cycling and languorous afternoons in the 92-foot-long pool. Rafael Nadal’s ZEL hotel beckons with a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Basque fare and a pro-approved gym. On the island of Minorca, protected status keeps a short leash on development, so newcomers focus on renewing existing properties rather than bulldozing and building. Take the island’s latest outpost, Son Vell, an 18th-century Venetian-style manor turned into a 34-room hotel featuring yoga classes, al fresco movie screenings and, best of all, not a thumping bass line within earshot.
Contributors: Kiera Carter (Kansas City), David Farley (Prague), Adam H. Graham (Kangaroo Island and Kyushu), Jacqueline Kehoe (Boundary Waters), Jordi-Lippe-McGraw (Balearic Islands), Suchi Rudra (Buenos Aires), Chris Schalkx (Malaysia and Lamu) and Michaela Trimble (Quintana Roo)
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7 places to see cherry blossoms in Europe
As warmer, sunnier weather and clearer skies arrive in spring, so do cherry blossoms, covering European cities, from Paris to Bonn, in clouds of dusty pinks and soft whites.
The Japanese have marked the arrival of cherry blossoms — known as sakura — for centuries, holding festivals across the country to celebrate the brief annual appearance of the pink flowers. In the US, cherry blossom hunters flock to Washington DC to see the delicate pink blooms during a four-week festival, but there are several options closer to home where you can catch the fleeting flush of colour in early spring. Here are the best places to see cherry blossom in Europe.
1. Stockholm, Sweden
Celebrate the appearance of cherry blossoms in Stockholm by planning your visit in time for the city’s annual Cherry Blossom Day , held on 28 April this year. Martial art displays, Japanese culture workshops and hands-on activities are held under the sea of pink flowers that cover 15 th -century Kungsträdgården (The King’s Garden) between the harbour and main shopping district. The cherry trees were a present to Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf from Japan in 1998 and now bloom along both sides of a sunken pool with ornamental fountains and steps for people watching over ice cream.
2. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Forget tulips — it’s all about the cherry blossom in Amsterdam between mid-March and early April. Amsterdam Forest, located a 40-minute cycle south from the city centre in the suburb of Amstelveen, is locally known as Kersenbloesempark (or Cherry Blossom Park). The park has 400 sakura trees, which were donated by the Japanese Women’s Club in 2000 — each tree has been given a Japanese or Dutch female name. Just be aware that picnics under the pale pink petals are only allowed on weekdays. An even more convenient option is the city’s Westerpark, which is within walking distance of the centre and loved by locals for its flat bike paths, coffee shops and grassy lawns shaded by the fragrant cherry blossom trees.
3. Bonn, Germany
Pastel-pink cherry blossom trees were first planted in Germany’s former capital, Bonn, in 1980 as part of an urban redevelopment programme. Now they usually bloom in the first two weeks of April, briefly turning the cobbled lanes of the Nordstadt neighbourhood into tunnels of vivid pink. The best streets to visit are Breite Strasse and Heerstrasse, which is nicknamed Cherry Blossom Avenue for its candyfloss-coloured canopy. Both are within walking distance of Bonn Hauptbahnhof station, less than an hour’s train ride from Cologne-Bonn Airport.
4. Paris, France
Paris in the spring is always a good idea but visit in late March or early April and you’ll catch pops of pink petals all over the city. Nowhere has quite the same wow factor as the Trocadero Gardens in the 16 th arrondissement, where the Eiffel Tower looms over the clouds of pink below for the ultimate Parisienne photo op. Stop at a fromagerie on the way for cheese and appropriately coloured rosé wine, then grab a picnic spot on the grass beneath the trees.
5. Jerte Valley, Spain
A three-hour drive west of Madrid, the Jerte Valley is renowned for its sweet, stalkless Picota cherries, which have been cultivated here since the 17 th century and are protected by a Denomination of Origin status. Two million trees cover the picturesque mountain slopes and burst into snow-white flowers each year around late March when the region’s 11 villages mark the occasion with a festival . Although the white petals only last two weeks, festivities continue during the cherry harvest between May and August, when visitors can help pick fruit with local farmers, join tastings and even pop by the local Cherry Museum .
6. Edinburgh, UK
Edinburgh blooms a little later than the rest of the UK so head to Scotland between mid-April to late-May to catch the city turn blush pink. A five-minute walk south from the historic Old Town, the 18 th -century Meadows Park is the best place to start for its cherry tree-lined paths, vast expanse of grass, large children’s play area and cafe with views of Arthur’s Seat. See if you can spot the plaque on one tree planted in 2022 in honour of local heroes, the Bay City Rollers. Afterwards, pop into Princes Street Gardens in the city centre, where a burst of pink sakura frames medieval Edinburgh Castle in the distance.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danes take their cherry blossom seriously and herald its arrival with the annual two-day Sakura Festival , scheduled for 20 and 21 April in 2024. It’s held in the waterfront Langelinie Park, home of the famous Little Mermaid statue and just a 10-minute cycle from the city centre. Around 200 powder-pink cherry blossom trees donated by the Japanese Honorary Consul of Denmark line the path to the Gefion Fountain, visible even by boat if you opt for a city canal tour. The festival itself is free to enter and showcases Japanese culture with tea ceremonies, workshops on haiku and origami and stalls selling sushi, mochi and sakura-themed treats.
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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.
Penang is the top destination for food, drink and sensory pleasures. Penang's foodie status is uncontested. Travelers flock from across Malaysia (and beyond) to experience Gurney Drive's seafood restaurants, slurp Penang laksa at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls, and follow their noses to barbecued seafood at the Chew Jetties.But even beyond the sizzle of char kway teow (rice noodles with prawns ...
Leila Najafi. John Seaton Callahan/Getty Images. The most popular places to visit in Malaysia are stunning — and the country's excellent infrastructure makes getting to them relatively painless. Although Malaysia is always ranked well among the most visited countries in Asia, China usually steals the limelight and #1 spot.
3. Taman Negara National Park. Taman Negara is the largest national park on the Malay Peninsula. In fact, the name Taman Negara literally translates from Malay to English as 'National Park'. It's an area of rainforest and wildlife, one of the last surviving areas in the country outside of Malaysian Borneo.
12. Kota Bharu. Often used as a stopover by many travelers visiting the beautiful Perhentian Islands, Kota Bharu offers its own unique charm, attractions, shopping and cuisine. Located in Peninsular Malaysia near the Thailand border, Kota Bharu is the capital of the Kelantan State, a city easy to get around in.
Places to See in Malaysia Petronas Twin Towers, Islamic Arts Museum, Langkawi Cable Car, Langkawi Sky Bridge, Menara KL Tower, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Petaling Jaya, Aquaria KLCC, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu & many more. This guide to the best of places to visit in Malaysia is the one thing that you should be keeping with you at all times.
1. Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia's capital and largest city has much to offer travelers. Perhaps best known for the Petronas Twin Towers (the world's tallest twin towers), KL is a very popular tourist destination and routinely makes the list of top 10 most visited cities in the world.
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 ...
Lake Gardens, Brickfields & Bangsar. Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas. Sabah. Sarawak. Penang. Pahang & Tioman Island. Perak. Explore Malaysia holidays and discover the best time and places to visit.
20 Places To Visit in Penang & Georgetown. 3. Melaka. Christ Church at night in the Portuegese-colonial district of Melaka, Malaysia. Location: Malaysia. Save on Google Maps. Melaka (Malacca) is a former Portuguese-colonial trading port conveniently located between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
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.
8. Pavilion KL. 4,170. Shopping Malls. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is an award-winning shopping mall located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, Malaysia's shopping paradise. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur brings the best of retail with a nett lettable area of over 1.7 million square feet, 700 stores and 8 themed precincts.
Top 20 places To Visit In Malaysia In 2023. 1. Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, which offer breathtaking views of the cityscape from its observation deck.
13. Ipoh Caverns. Map of Tourist Attractions in Malaysia. 1. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur. Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. The tallest twin towers in the world, the Petronas reach an impressive 452 meters high up into the clouds. The towers are 88 floors tall and have an impressive total of 76 elevators.
Among the most romantic places to visit in Malaysia, this one tops the list. Location: Northeastern Borneo, Malaysia. Major Attractions: Visit the Jungle Camp to enjoy wildlife in its unhindered natural habitat. Entry Fee: INR 6000 per person (Minimum 2 adults) for 2 days, 1 night trip to the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp.
SHOW ALL. Indulge in an awe-inspiring adventure of a lifetime. Enjoy fun times with your family, explore the wilderness and taste the mouth-watering cuisine of Malaysia. Island. &. Beaches. Culture. &. Heritage.
8. Gunung Mulu National Park. Mulu National Park is also another national park in Borneo that is worth a visit if you are looking for an adventure. Getting to Mulu National Park is already an adventure in itself due to how remote the place is. For convenience, you can also go there on an organized tour.
Malaysia. Where to go, best places to stay, travel tips and and best holiday destinations - inspiration from the experts at Lonely Planet.
The central square features the intricate Zahir Mosque, the Big Clock Building, the Royal Hall and the Sultan Museum. A little further afield, you can visit the 218m (715ft) and 250 million-year-old Gunung Keriang limestone hill. Head to nearby Kuala Kedah and walk through the ruins of a 17th-century Malay fort, the oldest in Northern Malaysia.
Check out all the places seen in this video: https://www.touropia.com/best-places-to-visit-in-malaysia/If countries were awarded for diversity, Malaysia woul...
Malaysia is safe place to backpack and travel — even for solo travelers and solo female travelers. Violent attacks against foreigners are rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Malaysia. When out and about, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. This is especially important ...
6. Partying is a bit more expensive. Compared to its backpacker-centric Southeast Asian neighbors Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, Malaysia is a more expensive party destination because of heavy taxes on alcohol, which is forbidden to Muslims. The rest of the population is free to drink but forced to pay a higher price.
Malaysia. The pandemic might have brought Belmond's swanky Eastern & Oriental Express train to a temporary halt, but the luxury travel company used the downtime to refresh the train's wood ...
The KLCC is a complex of iconic buildings built on the grounds of the former Selangor Turf Club. 6. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is the go-to place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to experience pewter, both as a beautiful piece to be admired and as a craft.
7 places to see cherry blossoms in Europe. As warmer, sunnier weather and clearer skies arrive in spring, so do cherry blossoms, covering European cities, from Paris to Bonn, in clouds of dusty ...