trip suggestions in malaysia

Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

Scams to Avoid

Visiting Kuala Lumpur

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation Guide

Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

simonlong / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

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

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

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

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

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

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

MALAYSIA Travel Guide: Trip Highlights, Itineraries, & Tips

Welcome to Malaysia!

Malaysia is an amazing and diverse country that has something to offer everyone.  If you’re looking for amazing food, gorgeous islands, and beautiful landscapes — Malaysia is a destination you should highly consider for your next holiday.  I have traveled pretty extensively through Peninsular Malaysia, and it has grown to become one of my favorite countries in entire world!  I’ve compiled this Malaysia Travel Guide as a source for people planning trips to this amazing country.

This guide will go over trip highlights, how to get around Malaysia, Malaysia itineraries, and general travel advice!

Hope you enjoy reading my Malaysia Travel Guide and favorite photos from my travels!

Note:  This Malaysia Travel Guide will focus entirely on Peninsular Malaysia.  I have never traveled to Sabah or Sarawak, and am not too well informed about those areas of the country. 

Traveling to Malaysia soon…?  I’d definitely recommend purchasing the Malaysia Lonely Planet Travel Guide !  I pretty much always travel with a LP guidebook, and it can definitely a huge asset on the road!

Pulau Kapas, Malaysia

 Malaysia Trip Highlights

Kuala lumpur.

You’ll most likely be starting your Malaysian holidays in the amazing capital city — Kuala Lumpur.  This is truly a special place with friendly people, beautiful sights, and delicious food (just like the rest of Malaysia).  During my travels in South-East Asia , I was lucky enough to call this city home for awhile.  The first time I visited Kuala Lumpur I actually didn’t enjoy the city too much, but after spending more time there I discovered how special the city really is.

Check out the following blog posts I’ve written:

• 10 Amazing Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
• Heli Lounge, Kuala Lumpur; Drinks + Sunset on a Helipad
• The Absolute Best Thing To Do in Kuala Lumpur

TOP KUALA LUMPUR TIP

Sign up for AirBNB , and stay at the REGALIA CONDOMINIUM .  I used to live there, and it’s by far the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

It’s luxury complex that has all the amenities you’d want, perfectly located, and  has the most amazing infinity pool.   There is a mall right next door with a grocery store, movie theater, and tons of other shops.  Also, if you sign up for AirBNB with this link , you’ll get $38 off your first visit!   Which is easily a free-nights accommodation at The Regalia!   Trust me.  You want to stay here!

Best Hostel in Kuala Lumpur

Reggae Mansion

  Perfect location, amazing rooms, and wildly crazy rooftop parties every night!  If you’re backpacking around Malaysia, than you have to stay at Reggae Mansion!  This place does sell out, so check rates & availability !

Penang is the cultural hotspot in Malaysia!  You’ll fall in love with it’s busy streets, beautiful artwork, and enchanting history.  Oh, and the food is absolutely amazing.   Most people come to Penang only planning a few day stay, but end up staying much longer than they expected.  You can spend a day on Batu Ferringi beach, hike through the National Park, and take the journey up to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the entire city.        

Best things to do in Penang:

• Beach day and sunset on Batu Ferringi Beach
• Spend some time hiking through the National Park
• Take a visit to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the city
• Stroll through Georgetown and check out all the artwork
• Eat at Penang’s famous hawker stalls

Best Hostel in Penang

Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel :   This is a recently opened hostel in Penang,and has excellent affordable rooms, very well-located in George town, and a really cool Japanese theme.  It’s got terrific reviews by everyone, and you’ll love your stay here!   Check rates & availability .

Officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, around 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia.  It’s right at the border of Thailand, and is a popular place to visit for traveller’s going north/south between Malaysia and Thailand.  It is truly an amazing island with amazing things to do, cheap accommodations, tax-free booze, and beautiful landscape.

Check out some of my blog posts on Langkawi:

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Langkawi, Malaysia
• Top 5 Reasons to Backpack Langkawi
• Berjaya Resort Crashing in Langkawi
• Chasing Waterfalls in Langkawi

Best Hostel in Langkawi

Langkawi Dormitorio :  

Just footsteps away from the beach, this perfectly located hostel had comfortable rooms, great prices, and an excellent atmosphere!   Langkawi Dormitorio .

Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is a stunning hill station in central peninsular Malaysia, and has become a popular destination for visitors in Malaysia. Roughly the size of Singapore, the Cameron Highlands covers a large stretch of land, and there’s tons to see, do, and explore.  You’ll fall in love with the beautiful green tea plantations, and will leave you speechless when you visit the highest peak in the Cameron Highlands

For more information on the Cameron Highlands, check out the guide below!

• A Backpacker’s Guide to the Cameron Highlands

Best Hostel in The Cameron Highlands:

CH Traveler’s INN :  

A newly opened hostel in the center of Tanah Rata, and simply the best place to stay on a budget for traveler’s visiting the Cameron Highlands!   Check rates & availability .

Taman Negara

Teman Negara National Park is the perfect place for travelers who love wild life viewing, jungle trekking, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, camping and many more. It is well established as one of the most popular ecotourism in Malaysia.  Popular activities include the canopy walk, jungle trekking, rapid shooting, cave exploration, and boat cruises.

Recommend days spent here:  1-2 days max

Check out the Teman Negara National Park website for more information

The Perhentian Islands

Welcome to paradise.  The Perhentian Islands consist of both Perhentian Kecil & Perhentian Besar.  They are both absolutely stunning, and the minute you step foot on of the two islands you’ll never want to leave.   I’ve visited Perhentian Kecil on two different occasions now, and I definitely would not mind going back for a third.  The beaches are gorgeous, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the nightlife can get pretty crazy.

Perhentian Kecil is more for a younger crowd.  It’s much more lively at night and has an incredible fireshow.  Perhentian Besar has a lot more resorts, and is a bit more family oriented.

If you’re going to Malaysia — you’d be mistaken to skip the Perhentian Islands!

Check out my blog posts on this paradise island!

• A Backpacker’s Guide to the Perhentian Islands
• The Perhentian Islands: Perfectly Picturesque (Photo Essay)

Pulau Kapas

Pulau Kapas is an idyllic island escape for those looking for a bit more of a remote location.  You won’t find any big crazy resorts, fast wi-fi connection, or luxury restaurants.  What you will be rewarded with is amazingly beautiful water, suburb underwater life, and an extremely laidback atmosphere.  Pulau Kapas is truly a Malaysian gem, and I guarantee if you go for a couple days you won’t regret it!

For more information about traveling to Pulau Kapas:

• The Ultimate Guide to Pulau Kapas, Malaysia
• Longsha Beach Camping on Pulau Kapas, Malaysia
• Pulau Kapas: The Most Beautiful Island in Malaysia (Photo Essay)

Tioman Island

If you’ve looking for some more island action, than definitely make your way over to Tioman Island.  It isn’t as gorgeous as the Perhentians or Kapas, but it has some of the best scuba-diving sites in the whole country.  The island is pretty massive, and is a 2-hour ferry ride from the mainland.  It is a DUTY-FREE island, which makes drinking on this island pretty cheap!  It’s a popular destination for weekend trips from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, so book in advance if you plan on being there on a Saturday & Sunday.  If you do plan on going, I’d definitely recommend staying on ABC Beach.

When I was there, I happened to catch really bad weather, and had some transportation issues.  I still had a great trip.  Read about it below:

• A Weekend Trip to Tioman Island

Melaka is just a short bus ride away from Kuala Lumpur, and can be a great place to spend one night.  It’s small enough to walk around, explore, and try some delicious food.  There’s not a whole lot to see here, but it’s definitely worth the visit.

To plan your visit, check out this post titled:

• Top 15 Places To See in Melaka

Getting Around Malaysia

The Malaysian transportation is some of the best I’ve found in all of South-East Asia.  Prices are relatively low, there’s tons of options, and they are all relatively comfortable.

Flights / Airfare

Malaysia is actually a really easy country to book extremely cheap domestic flights.

• Malindo Air

If you know your exact dates, you can actually get great flight deals.  Malindo Air is really great and includes 1 20kh checked bag.  These are particularly useful for flights to/from Kuala Lumpur.

Perhentian Islands

Traveling around Malaysia on the bus transport is actually really easy, budget friendly, and comfortable.  There are loads of different companies that offer a ton of different routes.  None of the journeys take that long, and the busses can actually be really nice.  For bus schedules, routes, and fares, check out the website below.  I’ve booked online tickets with them, and made the process extremely easy.  You can just show the email confirmation at the bus station, and receive your ticket.

• EasyBook.com

• Hitchhiking in Malaysia

Just like in any destination, you should be careful when hitching a ride alone.  With that being said, Hitchhiking in Malaysia can be done, and it’s actually not too difficult.  I met these Spanish girls on Pulau Kapas who found a ride all the way from Teman Negara – Kuala Terranganu.  It’s not that it saves a ton of money, but it’s a great way to meet some local people, and have a unique travel experience.  For more information on Hitchhiking in Malaysia check the website below:

Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur

• Trains in Malaysia

I’ve actually never taken a train in Malaysia, but I have heard that the system works out.  I almost boarded a train from Penang – Kuala Lumpur, but ended up extending my stay in Penang, and finding a flight that was cheaper than the train!  I honestly think that dealing with trains on other routes would just get complicated, so I’d just personally recommend Flights and Busses over taking trains in Malaysia.

Sunset on Tioman Island

Renting A Car

I’ve never rented a car and explored Malaysia on my own (mainly because I’m a solo budget traveler), but I have had some friends rent a van and go on weekend trips from Kuala Lumpur.  It’s definitely not the best option for everyone,

Jeep Excursions in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Trip Itineraries

If you look at each of these locations on a map, you can see that it actually fits pretty well

One Week Malaysia Itinerary

If you are only in Malaysia for a brief visit, than you want to enjoy your holiday.  My advice would be to enjoy 2-3 days in Kuala Lumpur, and fly to either Penang for 3-4 days.  You don’t want to rush around each destination, because you will want enough time to enjoy each place and do all the activities.

Two Week Malaysia Itinerary

Days 1-3 — Kuala Lumpur

Take a morning bus to Teman Negara

Days 4-5 — Teman Negara

Book the early bus ticket to the Cameron Highlands

Days 6-7 —  Exploring the Cameron Highlands

Book the early departure bus to Penang

Days 8-10 — Penang

Catch the two hour ferry to Langkawi

Days 11-13 — Langkawi

Catch a domestic flight from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur

Day 14 // End of Trip — Kuala Lumpur for your outgoing flight..

Island Hopping Boats in Langkawi

Three Week Malaysia Itinerary

Book transportation to Marang Jetty for access to Pulau Kapas (Close to Kuala Terranganu)

Days 8-10 — Pulau Kapas & Gem Island

Book early morning boat back to mainland, and get to main bus station.  Book transport to Perhentian Islands

Days 11-15 — The Perhentians Islands

Book Domestic Flight from Kuala Terrananu Airport – Penang.  Cheap fares available if booked in advanced. 

Days 16-17 – Penang

Days 18-20 — Langkawi

Day 21 // End of Trip — Kuala Lumpur for your outgoing flight..

Water & Lights show at KLCC

One Month in Malaysia Itinerary

If you have a full month in Malaysia, I honestly would just recommend to follow the 3-week itinerary, but travel slower.  This will also allow flexibility with the domestic flights, and also spending less time on travel.  I would also recommend staying in Kuala Lumpur for an extra couple days, and doing a one-day trip to Melaka.  If you want to see it all, you can switch up this itinerary to add Pulau Tioman, but I would honestly skip it.  I found it to be really touristy, difficult to get to, and there are much better islands and beaches in Malaysia.

If you have even more time in Malaysia, look out for cheap domestic flights over to Borneo.  You could scuba-dive off the coasts of the world famous Sipadan island, or hike the highest peak in Malaysia — Mt. Kinabalu!

General Malaysia Travel Advice

Eat as much as you possibly can!  The food in Malaysia is absolutely incredible.  When you get to Kuala Lumpur, check out a Nasi Kandar and try the various curries, Roti Canai, and Nasi Lemak!

Interact with the locals!  Malaysian people are extremely friendly, and generally speak really great English!  They are very open and welcome to tourism, and can be a great experience.

Understand you are in a Muslim country!  Be respectful with your clothing!

Get a local SIM card!  Malaysia has a wide variety of phone plans, and it will come in handy to have 3G / 4G internet when your traveling.  I’d recommend Tune Talk.  There are great prices and deals, and it’s good coverage.

Download my Free E-Book — 77 Amazing, Helpful, Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking South-East Asia .  This goes over a ton of valuable information for Malaysia!

If you haven’t figured it out by reading this post, I have traveled pretty extensively throughout Malaysia.   I think it’s an amazing country, and am always thinking about going soon and exploring different parts.  I’m actually dying to get over to Borneo, but I’m sure that time will come eventually.

If you’re ever planning a trip to Malaysia, feel free to Contact Me with any questions!

Thanks for reading!

Share the Malaysian Love!  

What a great resource! Malaysia is toward the top of my travel list…hopefully I’ll have the time to do the 3 or 4-week itinerary!

Thanks for the great info!

Glad you like it Sarah! :) When you do go to Malaysia, I guarantee you’ll love it! It’s such an amazing country, and so much fun to travel around! Enjoy!

Glad I could help out man! It really is an amazing country! I can’t wait to get back and explore even more.

Thanks for the information. It is really helpful. I am planing to go to Malaysia next month but i only have a week. Perhentian islans sounds like an amaizing place. I am between going there or visit Bali. What do you reckon? Thanks

Regards Gara

Hmm. Bali or Perhentian? Tough Decision. TO be honest, I’d probably choose Bali because you can do a whole lot more in one week. Bali is kinda small, but packed with stuff to do. Perhentian is more of a chill-out, diving destination. Let me know if you have any other questions.

Hello, I am crazy about looking for amazing food, gorgeous islands, and beautiful landscapes ans Malaysia is my dream destination. your blog has very rich content which includes numerous photographs of spots, Island, culture..and many more. Nicely organized and detailed blog.

Thanks so much Jesse! Awesome to hear my site is helping you out! :-)

Hey thanks man for giving this list.I will go Malaysia with my friends in next years.But i don’t know which place to start travel.But after read this i got a brief idea.I will go for 15 days tour.Hope you list will fulfill my journey.Can you give me a list of affordable hotels of Malaysia?

Hey Tina, I normally stayed in hostels because I was a super budget traveler in Asia, lol. I’d just check booking.com and read reviews and everything. :-)

Hi if u wanna come to malaysia and need me to guide you just whatsapp me – +601129293631 or dm me on instagram @hakimzakaria98

What an awesome blog! I’m heading to KL tomorrow from Sebah, I only have a week and at abit of a loss with figuring out what i can squeeze in and what not to miss. This is really helpful, so much info all in one place.

Thankyou! :)

So happy to help! Enjoy Malaysia! :-)

Hi! I’m Thien from Vietnam. I was in Malaysia a couple of years ago. Your sharing strongly reminds me of my traveling experiences when in Malay. Thanks greatly for that!

Would you like to try out some wonderful places in Vietnam? Check out this Things to do in Vietnam for various useful suggestions.

Hope that you can visit and explore our country one day.

Wow! Nice post! I love KUALA LUMPUR in Malaysia. It is my favorite place! Me and my Keymalaysia team already visited there!

Been in love with Malaysia ever since our first visit. Their beaches and rich culture is outstanding! Definitely coming back soon. So many more islands and sites to explore. Such a detailed and informative post you have! Kudos!

Hey, this blog is so helpful!!

We’ve got 2 weeks in Malaysia, we’d like to go to Penang, Langkawi, Perhentian Kecil, Pulau Kapas and of course Kuala Lumpur which we fly in and out of. Could you give me any info on how to get from each place please?

Any advice would be great thankyou!

Do u have a travel agency ? or just a traveler ?

Nice Malaysia Travel post author. Thank you. Keep it up.

Nice post author.Thank you.

I adore Malaysia – the beaches, food, street art and culture is the best, not to mention the scuba diving! Your guide has inspired me to return when I can, thanks Jones!

Thanks so much for this! Very useful guide  

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Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary

Malaysia, a country of incredible landscapes, colonial towns, delicious food, tropical islands, and friendly people. Because of its rich cultural history, Malaysia is now famous for its cuisine, a mix of Chinese, Indian, and Indonesian traditions. As a holiday destination, Malaysia is still under the radar compared to its neighbors Singapore and Thailand. Its infrastructure is well-developed, which makes for an effortless travel experience. Here’s the complete 2-Week Malaysia Travel Guide.

A 2-week Malaysia itinerary

Two weeks is an ideal length for getting to know West Malaysia. Here’s a day-to-day Malaysia Route Guide.

Note: this travel guide only covers West Malaysia and not Borneo.

Here’s our two-week route map of Malaysia. Discover the route’s highlights and what locations you will be visiting in the country if you follow this travel guide.

Day 1 – 2: Kuala Lumpur

Touchdown in the majestic, buzzing capital of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is a cultural mix of people of Chinese, Indian , and Malay descent. As a result, English is a commonly spoken language throughout the entire country.

Read: 15 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Visit the Batu Caves and the stunning Chinese Thean Hou Temple during the first two days of your Malaysia travel itinerary. 

See availability and tickets for a tour of Batu Caves

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Bintang and Brickfields are the two main areas to find a hotel in Kuala Lumpur. They are close to the city center, connected to the metro, and some sights are doable on foot. 

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur 😴

Ritz Carlton is right in the middle of the city, next to the shopping mall. It offers multiple pools, a spa, a gym, comfortable beds, and a delicious buffet.

Day 3 – 4: Malacca

The charming riverside city of Malacca is a mix of colorful buildings, street art, and architecture of historical significance. The very walkable city center of Malacca is an official UNESCO Heritage site, and although a bit off the usual Malaysia travel route, it is well worth the detour. 

Read: Two days in Malacca, things to do

Kuala Lumpur to Malacca Leave from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca on the morning of day 3. You will arrive before lunch which gives you 1.5 days to explore this small city.

Purchase your bus tickets here

Where to Stay in Malacca

It’s best to situate yourself centrally so as to be within walking distance from all the attractions. There is a nice atmosphere by the river, and plenty of hostels and guesthouses are situated here.

Hotels in Malacca 😴

Guesthouses in Melaka are very reasonably priced and of good quality. However, there are more upmarket hotel options that sit a little further out of the center.

Day 5 – 6: Cameron Highlands

Make your way up into the highlands of Malaysia. The cooler, wetter climate, and fertile ground make this an area ideal for tea plantations. The Cameron Highlands is, therefore, famous for its never-ending tea plantations and stunning hiking trails.

Here’s how to spend your days in the Cameron Highlands

Malacca to Cameron Highlands From Malacca to Cameron Highlands is a long, but straightforward, 5-hour drive. To break up the long journey, stop at the Genting Highlands to see the Chin Swee Caves Temple. However, we would only recommend this if you travel by car. Rent a car here .

Or purchase your bus tickets

The Genting Highlands

The Genting Highlands is popular on the weekends with Malaysians for the gigantic malls, casinos, and hotels. Avoid these parts and, instead, take the cable car up the mountain to the Chin Swee Temple. This colorful tiered pagoda stands tall at the summit, providing beautiful views of the thick, green forest beneath the Titiwangsa Mountains. 

We recommend to rent a car in Malaysia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How to get to Chin Swee Cave Temple 

The gondola leaves from the Awana car park , every day from 7 AM until midnight. Thrillseekers can choose to travel in the glass-bottomed gondola for the price of RM 50 per person. The normal gondola costs a much cheaper RM8 per person.

Where to Stay in the Cameron Highlands

The 3 main towns that make up the Cameron Highlands are Tanah Rata, Brinchang, and Ringlet. A variety of low-range- mid-range accommodation is available in each of the three.

Choose your location based on the sights you would most like to see. For example, Ringlet is closest to the BOH tea plantation, whereas most of the waterfalls are situated closer to Tanah Rata.

Hotels in Cameron Highlands 😴

The true Cameron Highlands experience can be found at the Cameron Highlands Resort , a colonial-style mansion with beautiful interiors in keeping with the history of the area.

Day 7: Ipoh – An undiscovered Malaysia travel spot

Go off the beaten path and visit Georgetown’s little brother, Ipoh. Wander down the colonial streets of Ipoh old town, where art and street food dominate the scene. Follow this with a visit to one of the temples carved into the limestone. 

Read more: Ipoh – Things to do

Cameron Highlands to Ipoh From Cameron Highlands to Ipoh takes 2 hours. Take the bus or car to Ipoh in the afternoon of day 6 so you have the 7th day to explore the highlights of Ipoh.

Get your bus tickets in advance

Where to Stay in Ipoh

There is a diverse range of budget hostels to luxury resorts within Ipoh, set within the town’s bustling center or set amongst the serene nature.

Hotels in Ipoh 😴

As a recommended stay in Ipoh is around 2 days, it’s best to situate yourself in one of the many good quality guest houses within the old town as a base to explore.

Day 8 – 10: Georgetown, Penang

Georgetown is a beautiful city located on Penang , an island just off the coast of Malaysia. World-famous for its street art trail, it has rightly become one of the must-visit places in Malaysia.

Take to the streets for incredible murals, beautiful temples, and a mouth-watering street food scene! And when you’re done with the city, visit some of the small white-sand beaches or the national park. 

Everything about Georgetown, Penang

Ipoh to Georgetown To get from Ipoh to Georgetown, you can take a direct bus to the center of town. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so there is no need to catch a boat.

Get your bus tickets

Alternatively, go for a more fun experience by taking a 2-hour train to Butterworth and catching the ferry to Penang from there.

Where to Stay in Georgetown

A hotel or guesthouse in Georgetown is best to find within the old town if you’d like to be close to all the top things to do.

Hotels in Georgetown 😴

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a beautiful hotel to stay in and conveniently located within walking distance of the street art trail and other iconic sites.

Day 11 – 14: Langkawi

The final part of your time in Malaysia is absolute paradise! Visit the 99 islands of the Langkawi archipelago. Discover stunning beaches, take boat trips amongst the limestone islands or through the mangrove, visit waterfalls, and take the world’s steepest cable car.

Find out about all the things to do in Langkawi

Georgetown to Langkawi Before, there used to be a super-fast ferry between Penang Island and Langkawi. However, nowadays, the only way to get there is to hop on a quick plane ride to the archipelago.

Where to Stay in Langkawi

Langkawi is a large island and offers many options for accommodation.

Hotels in Langkawi 😴

Stay close to Cenang Beach so you’re close to all the restaurants or at the north coast to have a more secluded experience away from the crowd.

Alternative Malaysia route options

Is your time in Malaysia limited? Remove Ipoh and/or Malacca from the itinerary to cut down your trip to 10 days.

Costs of traveling in Malaysia

Traveling around Malaysia is, in general, very affordable. The price depends largely on your choice of accommodation, transport, and tours. Expect to travel on a budget of 15 – 30 USD per person and 35 – 75 USD for a bit more comfort.

Costs of Traveling in Malaysia

Travel on a budget in Malaysia, from $180 − $320 USD weekly per person, mid-range $530 − $1650 USD, and high-end from $1650 − $2550 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $7 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $15 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $100 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $5 − $20 USD
• Activities: $5 − $35 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to get around in Malaysia

The infrastructure of Malaysia is well-developed and makes getting from A to B a piece of cake!

By public transport

There are train and public bus connections between all major tourist destinations. When you’re in need of help, it’s good to know that the majority of Malaysians speak a bit of English.

Book your buses and trains here

Getting around by car is also a great option since the roads are well-maintained. It also gives you greater flexibility and freedom to explore some lesser-known spots.

Best time to visit Malaysia

Malaysia has a warm and humid climate of 25 – 32 degrees throughout the entire year. The best time to visit West Malaysia is between December and March.

You can escape the heat by going into the highlands, where temperatures range from 15 – 25 degrees. Try to avoid the wet season from April to October. * Please note that this does not apply to Borneo. 

Do I need a Visa to travel to Malaysia?

Most nationalities do not have to apply for a Malaysian Visa. There are a few countries that need to apply for an e-Visa, which is an easy process.

Check here if you need a visa for Malaysia

Safety in Malaysia

Malaysia is a safe country to travel to. Crime is low, as is the number of pickpockets, and you should feel safe to roam around and walk freely. The people are friendly and will help you as much as they can.

Here’s how to:   find the right travel insurance

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Malaysia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

11 Best Things To Do in Penang, Malaysia (Georgetown)

Best things to do in cameron highlands, malaysia, 15 things to do in kuala lumpur (3-day guide).

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hello ☺️ how did you move around Malaysia? A mix of train, bus and rental car? I am a bit scared of driving there but also would love to visit so many places… Thanks!

Hey! Yes, a mix of all, however, I think you can get to all of the places in this guide with public transport!

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Exploring Malaysia: 20 Best Places and Most Unique Experiences

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Malaysia Map

Best Cities to Discover in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover Chinatown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the History and Culture of Penang

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Penang

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by road takes 2 hour s .

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

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

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

Discover Ipoh’s Street Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson

Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson by road takes 90 minutes.

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

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

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

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

Exploring Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

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

Words and Images by Travel Scribes.

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka by road takes 2 hour s .

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

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

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

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

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

Exploring the City of Melaka

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Dive Into Malaysia.

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

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

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

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

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

Cycling through the Paddy Fields

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words and images by Living Out Lau.

Best Cities to Discover in Borneo

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

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

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

See Orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Eating out in Kuching

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

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

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

Words and images by Rambling Feet.

Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

What was the weather like?

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

Words by No Hurry To Get Home.

Best Islands to Discover in Malaysia

Pangkor island.

Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor by road takes 4 hours

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

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

Discover the Delights of Pangkor Island

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

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

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

Getting to Pangkor Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Worldwide Walkers.

Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover the Underwater World in the Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

What is the weather like in the Perhentian Islands?

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

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

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

Words and images by Stingy Nomads.

Langkawi Island

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

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

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

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

Ride the cable car

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Go Around Philippines .

Kapas Island

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

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

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

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

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

Camping on the Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Chur New Zealand .

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

Discover Paradise in the Tioman Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Guide Your Travel .

Best Experiences to Discover in Malaysia

Visiting the cameron highlands.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walking through the Tea Plantations

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

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

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

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

Diving in Sipadan, Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

Discover the Underwater World of Sipadan

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

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

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

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

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

Words by The Very Hungry Mermaid .

Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunrise on Mount Kinabalu’s Summit

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

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

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

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

Words by Josie Wanders.

Jungle Camping in the Kiulu Valley, Borneo

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

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

Discovering Life in the Jungle

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

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

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

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

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

Words by DelhiFunDos.

Best Wildlife Encounters in Malaysia

Deramakot forest reserve, borneo.

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

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

Discover the Wildlife in Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deramakot Forest Accommodation

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

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

Words by The Wildlife Diaries.

Kinabatangan River, Borneo

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

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

Discover the Wild Pygmy Elephants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Danum Valley, Borneo

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

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

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

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

Rainforest Accommodation

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

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

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

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

Jungle Trekking in Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Travel Collecting.

Please Pin for Future Travel to Malaysia

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

Kwai Chai Hong: Beautiful Art Murals in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Discover Penang in 3-nights

Is Penang Street Art Still Worth Seeing In 2024?

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

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

Blue Mansion Penang Review: Cheong Fatt Tze

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

Best Ipoh Itinerary For 2 Days + Cave Temples

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

Gua Tempurung: Explore the Limestone Cave in Perak, Malaysia

Sepilok Orangutans: Ultimate Bucketlist Orangutan Experience in Borneo

7 Best Places to See Orangutans in the Wild

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

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

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Wednesday 17th of March 2021

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

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

Ambica Gulati

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

Chloe Beaver

Tuesday 16th of March 2021

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

WhereAngieWanders

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

Ummi Nadrah

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

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

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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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Untamed travel on asia's hidden roads, 20 short trips in malaysia for that perfect weekend getaway you need so badly.

Malaysia is small enough to be perfect for a short trip. From colonial cities to amazing beaches, viridian tea estates, forgotten jungles, waterfalls and luxurious getaways that cost a fraction of similar properties in Europe and the United States, Malaysia has it all. Did we mention the amazing food? If there is one country in Southeast Asia that’s perfect to base yourself and take short trips, that’s Malaysia.

This article lists 20 great places that are ideal for a short trip in Malaysia. Whether you are an expat couple based in Kuala Lumpur or Penang , or a long-term traveler who happen to have too much time on his hands on a layover in Kuala Lumpur, we have some perfect options to fill up two to three days in Malaysia.

Article Contents

Where to go in Malaysia for a short trip?

If you are based in Malaysia, or even if you are visiting as part of a trip through Southeast Asia, there are plenty of great short trips you can do either from capital Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or even Singapore — it’s very easy to cross the Causeway and start your short trip in Malaysia in Johor Bahru.

READ MORE — A Perfect One day Singapore Itinerary

This is a list of 20 great short trips in Malaysia as suggested by ourselves and other travel bloggers. Use this post as inspiration for your next trip to Malaysia. Before you go, you may also want to check out this guide on  how to buy a tourist SIM card in Malaysia , and our 12 suggested itineraries for visiting Malaysia in 3 days .

Perfect City Getaways for a Short trip in Malaysia

By Rose Munday of Where Goes Rose

Ipoh is a real hidden gem of Malaysia, perfect for a weekend getaway. Located halfway between Kuala Lumpur and Penang, it can be reached in a few hours from either location by bus or train. But its convenient location is far from the only reason to visit.

Ipoh is a small but colourful city known for its world-class street art and street food. Things to add to your Ipoh itinerary include street art spotting in Mural Arts Lane and wandering Concubine Lane and Market Lane, both dating back to colonial rule. While these would have once been seedy locations known for brothels, they’re now popular tourist streets with colourful hanging umbrellas, shops, cafes and more street art including interactive pieces you can pose with.

Sampling local food is essential for a getaway to Ipoh. From authentic Chinese restaurants to a bustling Little India, you can learn about Malaysia’s diverse ethnic groups from the food – and by visiting houses of worship like Panglima Kinta Mosque and the Chinese and Indian temples.

Finally, don’t miss the cave temples dotted around Ipoh . Sam Poh Tong, Kek Lok Tong, and Perak Cave Temple are known for their stunning surroundings and religious shrines nestled inside enormous limestone caves. Get a local taxi driver to bring you to all three since public transport is limited. If you still have time, use Ipoh as a jump-off point to visit Gopeng , with its quaint old town, caving, and white water rafting.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN IPOH:

– Sarang Paloh is a boutique hotel within walking distance of the best of Ipoh’s Old Town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Le Maison Guesthouse fans around a private swimming pool and makes for a good boutique hotel choice. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Bedrock Hotel has larger-than-life rooms and an interesting scholar rock theme, courteously curated by the owner, a rabid collector. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Homey Hostel is a beautiful guesthouse filled with good vibes and all backpackers essentials, straight in the center of the Old Town. Unmissable. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

TRY MORE FUN THINGS TO DO IN IPOH:

Cameron Highlands

By Melissa Douglas of High Heels and a Backpack

The higher altitudes and mountainous location means that the Cameron Highlands boasts a much cooler climate than the majority of the Malaysian mainland. This is perfect if you want a little respite during the hot, humid summer months.

You will find plenty to keep you occupied during your time in the Highlands, regardless of your specific interest and travel style. The BOH tea plantation is one of Malaysia’s largest producers and exporters of tea. The tea fields here make for an incredible photo experience. Not to mention, the tours offered by the plantation workers are fascinating.

One of the most unique attractions in the Cameron Highlands is the Mossy Forest – a woodland area where the entirety of the trees, plants, and forest floors are covered with moss. The forest is home to a rare and diverse range of insects, plants, and animals – including the carnivorous “pitcher plant” that eats frogs and small animals.

Dedicate your first day in the Highlands to exploring the tea plantations, the strawberry farms, and the farmer’s markets. On Day two, don your comfiest walking shoes, venture into the depths of the mossy forest, and attempt to conquer one of the region’s hiking trails.

Buses to the Cameron Highlands run regularly from Ipoh, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur. The Highlands extend over a large area and public transport within the region leaves a lot to be desired. Base yourself in Tanah Rata or Brinchang so that you are within walking distance to the area’s main attractions.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN CAMERON HIGHLANDS:

– Gerard’s Place is a cozy bed and breakfast tucked inside an apartment unit, with several mini-apartments and rooms facing a beautiful garden. Recommended. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Father’s Guesthouse is the best backpacker lodge in town, run by expert local guide Gerard and his family. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands is a Tudor-inspired boutique hotel with a vista. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Century Pines Resort is an upmarket option with nice balconies and private parking. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

By Reshma Narasing, The Solo Globetrotter

Penang, located off the northwest coast, is one of the awesome destinations in Malaysia for a short getaway, especially if you are traveling with friends or family. There are a lot of things to do in Penang : start in George Town, the capital of Penang state, a perfect place to base yourself, from where you can spend a weekend exploring around. Beautiful beaches, excellent Penang food , vibrant street art , ancient temples, amazing views of the skyline – these are a few of the things that you can enjoy over a weekend.

READ MORE – What to Do in Penang in 3 Days

Start from exploring the Colonial old town area in George Town, a UNESCO heritage site known for its traditional buildings, and incredible street art, which you can do on your own. Walking is the best way to do this, but if you don’t prefer, you can hire a tricycle. Have lunch at one of the local restaurants in Little India , which is not only famous for Indian food, but there are also a few good cafes and restaurants specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Next, right before sunset take a fantastic ride in the funicular train that climbs to the top of Penang hill for some of the best panoramic views of the town. Watch the illuminated city glow and then make your way back down. Alternatively, you could see it from the Rainbow Skywalk at the top of KOMTAR , Penang’s highest building.

Plan a trip to Penang National Park the next day, where there are many hiking trails that you can enjoy. You will need half a day or more depending on the hiking trails you choose, or beaches like the famous Monkey Beach . You can also have a relaxing beach day at Batu Ferringhi Beach, one of the famous beaches in George Town.

READ MORE – 20 Best Beaches in Penang

Next, visit the Clan jetties, which are stilted villages over the water on George Town’s east coast, and they are an essential part of Penang’s heritage. Chew Jetty is the most famous, while Tan Jetty is excellent for photography.

If you have more time, you can consider exploring the mainland of Penang, Seberang Perai, where you can explore beautiful places like the azure water pools at former mining site Frog Hill , and strike on many hiking trails in Penang Mainland , like Bukit Juru , for example.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN PENANG:

– Angsana Teluk Bahang is among the best 5 Star Resorts in Penang , with sea-facing rooms, three swimming pools, and a secluded beach all for yourself. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Ren I Tang is a heritage chic boutique hotel in the midst of vibrant Penang Little India. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Mcalister Terraces is another of the many George Town boutique hotels  and the only one with a specific art theme. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA  – Great Shanghai Guest House is one of the best backpacker hostels in town , removed from the chaos of Love Lane, and full of charm. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

By Caroline Keyzor of Cktravels

Melaka is a gorgeous riverside town that is rich in British, Dutch, and Portuguese colonial history with a UNESCO world heritage status. The town is very compact so is perfect for a short weekend getaway, and can easily be explored by foot. Melaka has something for everyone and is filled with wonderful colourful heritage buildings, ancient landmarks, and quirky street art.

There are many fun things to do in Melaka , but the main highlight is the Jonker Street Weekend Night Market – one of the best in Malaysia, which runs every Friday to Sunday. You’ll find a wide variety of stalls selling souvenirs and amazing street food. Make sure you try Nyonya Laksa – a rich and creamy coconut-based noodle soup that is a Melaka specialty and a mix of Malay and Chinese influences. Another fun thing to do is to take a scenic river cruise and view the many beautiful historical buildings and interesting sights around Melaka’s old town, including Kampung Morten – one of the few remaining traditional villages in the area.

There are lots of great accommodation options for all budgets around the Jonker Street area, and if you have the cash to splash then there are some luxury hotels with swimming pools set along the banks of Melaka’s River.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN MELAKA:

– Nancy House is a very clean and perfectly located backpacker hostel. Recommended. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – The Sterling Boutique Hotel has a fascinating heritage feel not to miss. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Nomaps Hotel is tucked at the end of Jonker Street and is a super-clean, perfect spot to satisfy any flashpacker need. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Yote 28 is another exceptional hostel that feels like a higher category hotel. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

CHECK OUT MORE FUN TOURS AND FOOD IN MELAKA:

Taman Negara

By Elisa from World in Paris

Taman Negara National Park is a fantastic idea for a weekend getaway from Kuala Lumpur. This virgin forest is perfect for nature lovers or for those who are looking for a couple of days of relaxation far from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Taman Negara is the most primitive virgin rainforest in the world, and much older than the Amazon. According to scientists, the forest of Taman Negara could be more than 130 million years old.

This incredible ecosystem is located 3 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur in the interior of Peninsular Malaysia. The fastest way to reach Taman Negara is by private car, but you can also take buses to the small town of Jerantut and transfer to the park from there. Most accommodation in Taman Negara, however, offers transportation from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara, and it’s often just easier to go with them.

People visit Taman Negara for its outdoor activities and hiking trails (don’t forget to bring your adidas kampung ). Once you arrive, get a map with the hiking trails and a list of the suggested activities organized by your hotel so you can plan your days. There are riverboat trips and many short and multi-day trails (most require a guide to be organized at the park’s headquarters).

You don’t have to stray far, for you can enjoy the trees and plants of this incredible forest just strolling around headquarters. Taman Negara’s canopy walkway, one of the park’s most popular attractions, is also near headquarters. Some hotels also propose night walks in the forest for a completely different jungle experience.

For the perfect experience in Taman Negara, I suggest booking your room at Mutian Taman Negara Resort. This is the only accommodation located in the heart of the jungle, and they have an on-site restaurant with enjoyable meals.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN TAMAN NEGARA:

– Mutiara Taman Negara Resort is a 5-star hotel sitting right next to park headquarters, and the only hotel located inside of the park itself. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Rainbow Guesthouse is a solid budget option, with funky and homey rooms, and lovely owners, set in its own secluded garden away from the tourist strip. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – XCape Resort is a bit of a cookie-cutter catch-all property, catering from backpacker to flashpacker, and offering8 several categories of rooms and a swimming pool. Perk: fastest Wi-Fi in town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Agosto Taman Negara Hostel is the best option for those on a budget and looking for a social vibe. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

By Sean of Living Out Lau

Even though it’s small, the best things to do in Sekinchan are visiting the outskirts of town and the lush rice paddy fields that surround the eastern perimeter of this small town.

In the proper season, the rice plants can grow as tall as an average adult person, making it a photographer’s paradise. When you are done exploring the rice paddies in the day, head over to the famous Pantai Redang beach to watch the sunset. Grab a coconut, sit on the soft sand, and watch the sun dip beyond the horizon line of the Malacca Strait.

After basking in the stunning sunset, you should try one of the many seafood restaurants that make Sekinchan proud: believe me, the seafood here is incredibly fresh, and most important, absolutely affordable. Loong Hua Restaurant and Restoran Wan Lou are both family-owned restaurants that come highly recommended by locals.

Though Sekinchan is located a short 1.5-hour to 2-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur and it’s very doable as a day trip, I recommend staying for a weekend. I believe that’s the proper way to relax from the hustle-and-bustle of the big cities in Malaysia. To make your stay in Sekinchan more interesting, don’t forget cool activities such as the Sky Mirror and the fireflies boat tour in the nearby town of Kuala Selangor. The town is 30 minutes away by car, and I promise you that these attractions in Kuala Selangor are totally worth the short ride!

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN SEKINCHAN

– The One Boutique Hotel is a cozy and trusted option in the center of town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Sekinchan Seaview Homestay is a perfectly cozy apartment with a bar and a terrace with views of the coast. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

LEGOLAND in Johor Bahru

By Ariana from World of Travels with Kids

Depending on where you travel from, aim to be at the gates of Legoland Malaysia Hotel at 10am. You will find there is plenty to do with all kinds of Lego awesome as you go from amazing roller coasters to LEGO activities themed in the different LEGO worlds, like Ninjago, Tehnic and Lego City. All up there are 70 rides catering from toddlers through to teens, as well as activities sure to appeal to adults, like Miniland.

For many families, the purpose of visiting Malaysia from Singapore is quite simply to visit Legoland, and if that is the case, we recommend staying at the superb Legoland Resort and visit Legoland for two days, as well as LEGOLAND Malaysia Water Park.

For those that want to make the most out of a visit to Johor Bahru, you could stay 3 nights or more, as its much cheaper than Singapore, and there is a lot of good food, cheap accommodation and also shopping malls galore!

And… if you haven’t exhausted yourself enough at Legoland there is also the Angry Birds theme Park, as well as the Thomas Town and Hello Kitty World in Puteri Harbour.

If you have some extra time, there are also some very interesting cultural places to visit in Johor Bahru, like Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque. However, there is only so much you can fit into a weekend, so sometimes you have to prioritise, and this Malaysia weekend getaway is all about family time and making your kid’s dreams come true!

HAVE MORE TIME? CHECK OUT THESE FUN THINGS TO DO IN JOHOR BAHRU:

Perfect Spots for a Short Malaysia Beach Holiday

Perhentian islands.

By Campbell and Alya of Stingy Nomads

Both islands are great, but we enjoyed more staying at the more lively Perhentian Kecil. From Kuala Besut you should take a speedboat to Perhentian Kecil. There are fantastic guesthouses and resorts to stay around Petani Beach and Long Beach. If you take a morning boat you will arrive early enough to enjoy the first day.

Spend the first day on the beautiful Longbeach, walk to Coral Bay beach on the jungle path and have lunch in one of the restaurants. Walk back for sunset and drinks on Long Beach.

The diving here is great with warm, clear water, beautiful corals and marine life. Go scuba diving around the Perhentian Islands on the second day. If you are not qualified, do a try dive which is a nice introduction and takes half a day.

Qualified divers will enjoy Tokong Laut, a fantastic dive site rich in marine life and the largely intact Sugar wreck, a sunken freighter lying in 20m of water. Follow your dive by some hiking on the trails through the beautiful jungle connecting resorts and villages on the island.

On the third and final day, I would recommend renting snorkeling gear and a kayak and paddle between Long Beach and Coral Bay, stopping to snorkel. There are reef sharks, barracudas and plenty of beautiful corals and fish to see. Take the afternoon speedboat back to Kuala Besut. The best time to visit the Perhentian islands is the dry season, from March to September.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN PULAU PERHENTIAN:

– Mimpi Perhentian is the swankiest 4-star resort on Long Beach. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – The Barat Perhentian is another solid resort-like spot. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Rainforest Camping Perhentian Island is exactly what it is: bare-bone beach essential life. Not for everybody, but overlooking a beautiful bay. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

Port Dickson

By James from The Travel Scribes

When you’re looking for a weekend break in Malaysia, Port Dickson might not be at the top of your list. But ask the Kuala Lumpur locals and they’ll tell you that just 90 minutes out of the capital is a gem of a town, packed with things to do.

This budget-friendly holiday destination is jammed full of high-end resorts, plus attractions at every turn. Spend your day exploring Tanjuan Tuan (Cape Rachado) Nature Reserve, with over 80 hectares of forest, beaches and even a soaring lighthouse built by the Portuguese back in the 16th century. The reserve also boasts the best beach in the area, the Blue Lagoon, aptly named for its beautiful blue water and of course soft sands to relax on for the rest of the day.

An old army outpost, you should spend your second day meandering around the Army Museum before taking in a few cultural attractions, like a stop at the Wan Loong Temple or the Lukut Museum. And, if you’re got kids in tow, then head to the Ostrich Show Farm to pet those feathered friends or take a slew of fun photographs at one of the many 3D art galleries and ‘upside-down houses’ dotted around the main city centre.

And, if you’re not sure where to stay while there, definitely shell out for one of the overwater villas at Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson. This exquisite resort is not just shaped like the national flower, the hibiscus, but boasts two Guinness World Records for most swimming pools (643) and most overwater villas (522) in the world. The resort is great for families too, with a free shuttle service, it’s own water park, archery and even fun e-bikes for hire.

Sepang’s Overwater Bungalows

By Stephanie of History Fan Girl

To enjoy your weekend in Sepang, start by checking into the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort. This is a great place for couples since the resort is extremely romantic, but it also has great options for activities for kids.

If you only have two days, I would suggest spending one full day enjoying the resort, from the beach to the pool to the spa. You can start with a morning massage, enjoy your afternoon on the beach, relax in the pool before dinner, and enjoy your evening meal while taking in a vibrant sunset.

If you have a full second day, you can either explore Sepang or take the free shuttle to Kuala Lumpur to enjoy the capital. If you want to see Sepang, you can see the beautiful nearby mosque or have the hotel arrange a mangrove river cruise. Alternatively, you can spend more time at the resort, indulging in yoga and watersports at the beach. The resort has a schedule of activities that rotates throughout the year that you can indulge in.

EXPLORE MORE PLACES IN SELANGOR:

By Sonakshi and Mainak of Places in Pixel

Langkawi is not just an island, it’s actually an archipelago of 99 beautiful and serene islands floating in the Andaman Sea. Located on the western coast of the Malaysian mainland, Langkawi is surrounded by turquoise sea with pristine beaches.

Langkawi can be reached by 2 ways – by air and by land from Penang . The more exciting way is to take a short flight from KL; especially because landing at the Langkawi airport itself is a spectacular experience on its own (make sure to take a window seat!)

While in Langkawi, start off your 1st day by visiting the Sky Bridge. No trip to Langkawi is complete without visiting the famous Sky Bridge and its thrilling cable-car ride. The view from the top is simply breathtaking. And in the evening, take a gastronomic ride at the night markets.

On your second day, you can try out an island hopping tour, shopping at the dutyfree stores of Langkawi, relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches — such as Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Pantai Kok, Black sand beach and more — check out the Galeria Perdana, visit the Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise, Hike to Durian Pernangin waterfalls and top it off with a visit to the famous Eagle square.

For those who have a fascination with ecotourism, the Langkawi Mangrove tour is highly recommended . If you combine all these activities, you can make Langkawi a perfect getaway spot for long-weekends (3 days).

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN LANGKAWI :

– Cloud9 Holiday Cottage has beautiful rooms set around a private swimming pool with a backdrop of quaint paddy fields, a perfect budget option catering to the flashpacker crowd. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – The Datai is one place that, if you can splurge, is worth all your money. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Temak Villa has its own swimming pool and is tucked away from the chaos of Pantai Cenang. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Bed Attitude Cenang is a perfect backpacker hostel right in the action of Cenang, with awesome facilities and an industrial-chic vibe to boot. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

TRY MORE GREAT THINGS TO DO IN LANGKAWI:

Pangkor island

By Debjani Lahiri of The Vagabong

Pulau Pangkor is less visited by tourists even though it has a lot to offer. There are many lonely beaches like Coral Bay, a Dutch colonial fort with a rock inscribed with an ancient sign of the Dutch East India Company, and is home to a staggering amount of hornbill birds — you can feed them every day at 6 pm at Sunset View Chalet.

The colorful alleys of the two Chinese villages, Sungai Pinang Kecil and Besar, with street markets and boat-making workshops, will leave you amazed for sure. Pangkor Island also has a famously revered Taoist Temple, Foo Ling Kong, which is visited by many devotees and has a mini replica of the Great Wall of China.

Once, you are done with the cultural sightseeing, you’ll be spoilt for choices of great water sport activities on any one of Pangkor’s different beaches. Snorkeling is also highly recommended, as the waters are azure blue, and you may see marine life. For sure, the beaches often reflect with blue plankton at night.

Pulau Sembilan, translating to “Nine Islands”, is a mini-archipelago to the south of Pangkor island. These uninhabited and protected islands — ask locally before you go, as they often close for restoration and conservation — host some of Malaysia’s best diving and snorkeling. Diving is best between the months of November to March.

READ MORE — Diving in Pulau Tenggol, Malaysia’s Secret Island

The hilly areas of Pangkor will also give you scope to climb the hill that soars in the midst of the island and get a panoramic view of the island — not forgetting a chance to get on an ATV and quad-ride all around the forested interior until the northern bays.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN PULAU PANGKOR

– Pangkor Laut Resort is situated on its private island and is the highest starred resort on Pangkor. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Nipah Guesthouse is a solid choice with cute A-frame huts set around a swimming pool. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Joe Fisherman Inn has two stories of nice rooms facing a cozy swimming pool. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

Marang and Pulau Kapas

By Sasha of Mog and Dog Travels

Malaysians are passionate foodies, so it makes sense to dedicate your first day to a food crawl, starting with an early breakfast from one of the many street-side stalls around Marang. Terengganu is famous for its Thai influenced cuisine and the abundance of rice dishes: try the nasi minyak , where multicoloured rice is cooked with ghee and five different spices and usually served with chicken curry; or nasi kerabu – rice steamed with coconut milk, dyed blue and served with salad, fish or chicken curry and an array of condiments. Make sure you also pick up a bamboo stick of satar , a fish snack made from pounded fish, shallots, ginger, and grated coconut and barbecued in a banana leaf.

In the early afternoon, stop by the often deserted Kelulut beach to soak up some rays and to feast on the popular sotong goreng (squid fritters) that are covered in a mouthwatering light crispy batter and sold by many of the beach stalls. In the evening, head to one of the numerous restaurants serving a variety of Malaysian seafood dishes.

On the second day, take a 10-minute ferry ride from Marang jetty to Pulau Kapas. Spend the day snorkeling, kayaking or diving around the island’s crystal clear waters or simply just lazing on the white sand beach. You can also walk through the jungle via a stairway to the northernmost point of the island. Whilst there are a couple of cafes and restaurants on the island, it is better to pick up some snacks, fruit, and water before you take the ferry.

Tioman Island

By Sharon of Dive Into Malaysia

Located off the coast of the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, this is particularly a good choice for people coming from Singapore with ferries to Tioman leaving from Mersing which is a couple of hours drive from Singapore. Once at Mersing, it’s easy to take a 1.5–2 hour ferry (depending on exactly where the final destination is on Tioman) to the island.

The island itself is beautiful. It has a gorgeous coastline and a mountainous interior. There are not many roads and it’s all about exploring by sea or on your own two feet. I recommend staying at Berjaya Tioman which is connected by road to a few places which makes exploring much easier. For other suggestions on where to stay in Tioman, read this guide here .

With two days to explore, spend the first day exploring your surroundings. Enjoy your closest beach and take a boat tour to some great diving and snorkeling spots like Coral Island. This is easy to organize on arrival.

On day two, head to a different part of the island and take a hike. Some good options are to head to Juara Beach if staying elsewhere on the island. There is also a turtle sanctuary here. If staying in Juara, head across on the jungle road to Tekek on the opposite side and take a walk to ABC Beach visiting the Marine Park Information Centre on the way.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN PULAU TIOMAN

– Japamala Resort is the five-star property you need to forget about it all. Check prices and book on  AGODA – Tioman Cabana B & B has beach-front accommodation in ABC Beach, close to the action. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Tioman Dive Resort is the comfy place to go for those interested in exploring the island’s depths. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

TRY MORE FUN THINGS TO DO IN TIOMAN:

Sibu Island, Johor

By Nuraini of Teja On the Horizon

If you get the midday boat, do a short hike in the afternoon to the mangrove shore on the west coast where there’s an extremely photogenic bleached pink old jetty. If you feel up to it, you can also hike around the whole island to appreciate the variety of its shoreline, which is pretty unique for an island so small.

Go scuba diving on the second day if visibility is good, or go snorkelling at nearby Kukus and Lima Besar islands. In the afternoon, continue enjoying the beach or go kayaking.

You have the last chance to try a different dive site or hike to a different part of the island on your final day, before taking the boat back to Mersing.

Stay at Twin Beach Resort to take advantage of Sibu Island’s iconic double beach section. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a couples getaway, go for the romantic Rimba Resort at the northern part of the island.

Short Getaways in Malaysian Borneo

Flying between Kuala Lumpur or Penang and Malaysian Borneo is so cheap and easy that you should consider taking a short trip to this amazing side of Malaysia, where nature and wildlife abound, and an exotic heritage of headhunters and the foreign adventurers who tamed them constantly palpable. Did we mention Borneo’s best beaches ? Here are some of the best short getaways in Sarawak and Sabah.

READ MORE — 16 Unmissable Attractions in Sabah

Kinabatangan River

By Sylvia of Wapiti Travel

The Kinabatangan River is located in the Malaysian part of Borneo. The river forms an area with tropical lowland rainforest vegetation and unique ecosystems, it’s the lifeline of the namesake Wildlife sanctuary and Malaysia’s prime location to see elephants, orangutans, macaques, crocodiles and snakes. There’s also an abundance of colorful birds.

READ MORE — How to Spend 2 Perfect Weeks in Borneo

Dotted alongside the river are several lodges that offer 2 or 3-day all-inclusive packages. Except the name the packages in no-way resemble what is offered to sunseekers in beach resorts. Adventure plays the main roll and the meals are extra, but still delicious.

A typical day in the Kinabatangan jungle has an early start. Around 5 or 6 o’clock you will eat a small snack before you board a boat for your morning safari. Approximately 2 hours later you will be back, just in time for breakfast.

The rest of the day you’re free to explore the area, relax and enjoy the restful sounds of nature. In the evening you do a second Kinabatangan river cruise around 4 pm and dinner will be waiting when you get back to your lodge.

Each cruise will be different and they will never stop to surprise. If you’re short on time you can opt for a 2-day package but true nature lovers will leave with a heavy heart even after 3 days.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN SANDAKAN AND THE KINABATANGAN RIVER

– S’Kan Styles Hotel has boutiquey rooms right along the main promenade and in walking distance to the local wet market. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Harbourside Backpackers is situated on the waterfront and offers simple yet clean and sturdy beds in the center of town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – The Last Frontier Boutique Resort in Bilit is one fancy way to experience life on the Kinabatangan River. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Bilit Adventure Lodge is another solid, established, and very pretty high-end guesthouse organizing river trips. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

EXPLORE MORE OF SANDAKAN AND KINABATANGAN:

Kota Kinabalu

By Knycx Journeying

Located on the northeastern side of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a popular Malaysian destination among both local and international travelers. Whether you like to swim, surf or hike, Kota Kinabalu’s natural treasures are among some of the best in Southeast Asia.

For a short getaway in Malaysia, you should start enjoying a day on the beach (maybe Tanjung Aru) and then explore Kota Kinabalu city proper in the evening.

Dedicate your second day to exploring the five offshore islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Go to the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, in walking distance from Gaya Street, and take a boat to Sapi Island. You can sign up for one or two activities of your choice among sea walking, banana boat riding, scuba diving, parasailing or jet skiing. Don’t forget to experience the thrill of flying across the ocean on the Coral Flyer – the second longest island zipline in the world, perched between Sapi and Gaya islands.

BUY DISCOUNTED CORAL FLYER TICKETS HERE

After lunch, take another boat and hop to Manukan Island, the second biggest in the marine park. Soak into the clear water, sunbathe, and go snorkeling for the rest of the afternoon. Once you return to Kota Kinabalu city, you can enjoy a refreshing drink at the KK City Waterfront while looking at one of Borneo’s stunning violet-tinged sunset. At night, and especially if it’s a weekend, venture to Gaya Street for some delicious Malaysian cuisine at the Api Api Street Food Market. That’s where you’ll be able to taste some fiery laksa, char siew, seafood, and Borneo bak kut teh.

READ MORE – Backpacking Borneo Ultimate Guide

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN KOTA KINABALU

– Mercure Hotel is a solid 5-star option in the center of town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Borneo Backpackers is a long-running, trusted option in the center of town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Faloe Hostel is a social and very clean hostel that gets raving reviews from travelers. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Lazy Cat Home is a homey and comfy apartment along Gaya Street, close to anything vibrant in Kota Kinabalu. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

CHECK OUT MORE COOL SABAH ACTIVITIES FROM KOTA KINABALU:

By Marya Sutimi of The Beau Traveler

There are many theories about why the city is called Kuching, with one of them coming from the Malaysian word for cat “kucing”. For that reason, some local Malaysians in Kuching self-proclaimed the city as the “cat town” and you can find various cat statues around the city. In addition to that, there’s also a cat museum situated in their North City Hall.

If you’re planning to go to Kuching, it is highly recommended for you to find accommodation nearby the Kuching Waterfront. Not only is it easy to get around the city from the area, but it’s also a hub for Malaysian culture in Sarawak. You can easily visit some museums in the area, such as the Chinese History Museum, Sarawak Museum, and Sarawak Textile Museum — not forgetting the Old Courthouse of the Brookes, the White Rajahs of Sarawak, whose legacy can now be appreciated across the Sarawak River at Fort Margherita. The Brooke Foundation runs a very interesting collection of historical artifacts, old maps, and memorabilia that explains Kuching, and Sarawak’s, ties with this dynasty of British rulers.

By night, don’t miss the night bazaar around the Waterfront, where you can also enjoy various local dishes. Their signature Sarawak laksa is super delicious, while some people would also recommend other local dishes like kolo mee or kueh chap .

If seeing orangutans in their natural habitat is also on your bucket list of things to do in Borneo, Semenggoh Nature Reserve is only around 30 minutes by car from town.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN KUCHING

– The Waterfront Hotel is the most central, swankiest local hotel overlooking the Old Courthouse. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – The Marian Boutique Lodging House is a mix between luxe boutique hotel and heritage mansion. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Hornbill’s Nest Kuching is a perfectly located, clean hostel that comes highly recommended. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Woodpecker Lodge is a solid guesthouse option with great facilities and straight in the center of town. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

OUT MORE COOL ACTIVITIES FROM KUCHING:

Gunung Mulu

By Oksana and Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Gunung Mulu National Park is tucked away on the island of Borneo, and a great place to visit for a long weekend. It is one of the biggest protected rainforest areas in this part of Malaysia and known for its extensive underground cave network, unique mountain peaks, and daily bat exodus. The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most spectacular natural parks that we’ve seen in all of Asia.

Spend a day or two exploring the park’s impressive cave system which is the longest in the world by surface area. Lang Cave, Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave, Wind Cave, and Lady Cave are among the most famous. Inside you’ll find interesting rock formations and underground rivers.

One of the highlights of our trip was watching the bat exodus at Deer Cave. Every day between 5–7 pm thousands of bats leave the cave in giant numbers in search of food.

There are some great hikes in the area ranging from day hikes to multi-day treks. The Headhunters trail is an overnight hike through the rainforest and out of the Mulu area on an ancient tribal walking trail. It is an extension of the more famous hike to the Pinnacles, some eerie, blade-like rock formations on top of a mountain, a hard slog that takes 2 days to complete.

If you only have a few days in Mulu you’ll have to choose between visiting the cave systems or embarking on the Pinnacles hike. Both are really worthy activities on a short getaway to Malaysian Borneo.

GOOD PLACES TO STAY IN MULU

– Mulu Marriot Resort is the best option in the park, with beautiful cottages and a perfect atmosphere. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – Mulu Village is a homestay set outside the park, with a nice veranda and grassy surroundings. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA – AA Homestay is another cheaper option for those who can’t shell out to stay within the park headquarters. Check prices and book on BOOKING.COM | AGODA

The Danum Valley Conservation Area

If you are interested in seeing what one of the world’s oldest rainforests look like, the Danum Valley Conservation Area  is unmissable. Pretty much untouched and for years only reserved to scientists, this forest reserve lays in the center of Sabah, and makes for a perfect short trip. A weekend is enough: you can fly to Lahad Datu from Kota Kinabalu, and then arrange transport to the reserve.

The main activities here are trekking, wildlife spotting, and basically staying in touch with nature. The Danum Valley is a great place to see wild orangutans, leopard cats — you have to be lucky, but it’s possible — and many other smaller mammals like the endemic Borneo mouse deer, thousands of species of frogs and insects, and the commonly found Malay civet — they come to look for food near the park’s field center at night.

At last, the Segama River runs along the edge of the jungle, and it’s a relaxing place to take a dip when the temperature gets too hot. Since coming to the Danum Valley is not very straightforward without a tour, it makes sense to shop around and get a good deal that includes guides and accommodation. Sticky Rice Travel, a Kota Kinabalu-based company, is one of the most trustworthy tour operators here.

Further Readings on Malaysia and Borneo

Cycling Guide from Kuala Lumpur to Penang Explore Bukit Piton Orangutan Sanctuary At Home with Pirates on a Sungai Kapur River Cruise Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 3 Days Tawau Hills Park Hiking Guide

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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 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

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

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

3 Weeks in Malaysia Itinerary

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Malaysia is one of my favourite destinations in Southeast Asia. Compared to its neighbouring countries, Malaysia is less crowded and offers very different features . In this country, you will be stunned by the massive skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur.

Then you can also hike the highlands of Cameron, where the weather is simply fantastic. Lastly, there are many areas where you can enjoy the beach.

3 weeks in Malaysia is plenty of time. Since so many domestic flights and buses will connect the popular destinations to one another, you don’t have to waste too much time transporting from place to place. Malaysians also speak incredible English. Hence, communicating with the locals will not be a problem.

In this itinerary for Malaysia, I will show you how you can spend 20 days here covering popular destinations without making your itinerary too busy. You will have plenty of time to explore each location and visit many must-see attractions in Malaysia.

CHECK OUT: 3 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia or 3 weeks in Thailand

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO MALAYSIA

Before we dive into the day-to-day things to do, let’s first discuss basic things you should remember before booking your flight. If it’s your first time here, these travel tips will help you prepare and learn about your next holiday destination.

When is the best time to go to

Malaysia’s seasons can vary depending on the region. The West Coast and East Coast have different dry and wet seasons, not to mention the Borneo region of Malaysia (Sabah). The best time time to visit Malaysia depends on where you want to go.

For example, the best time to travel the West Coast is from December to March, and the East Coast is from April to October.

I personally went all over mainland Malaysia from June to July, and the weather couldn’t have been better. I also went during the month of April, only in Kuala Lumpur. It was a little cloudy, but no rain.

To avoid the crowd, go to Malaysia from the end of January until the middle of March . Although Malaysia’s population of 60% is practising Islam, the Christmas season is still one of the busiest times of the year.

First, due to its excellent weather but also because the country observes this time of the year as a public holiday. In comparison, Ramadan is celebrated sometime from March to April .

Are 3 weeks enough for Malaysia

Spending 20 days in Malaysia is an ideal amount of time. Of course, it won’t be sufficient if you want to visit every city and every island. But it’s enough to start with. With three weeks in Malaysia, you can visit 3-4 major cities , go hiking, explore the beaches, and discover cultural sites.

With this much time, you can travel both on mainland Malaysia and the Borneo (Sabah) side of Malaysia . Make sure you have a travel itinerary though, so you can visualise how much time to spend in each place and how to get from point A to point B and not waste your time with unnecessary hassle.

Average cost of 3 weeks in Malaysia

Malaysia is an affordable destination to explore. a budget of $1,200 for 20 days in Malaysia is a good one which will allow you to stay in private rooms, eat out, and travel mostly by air. This is around a $60 per day budget. Most a ccommodations will cost you $25-$35 , and eating out is about $5-$10 . The rest will cover transportation and tours.

You can do Malaysia on a $700 to $900 budget for a 20-day trip if you’re on a tight budge t. You will stay in hostel dorms, consume affordable but tasty street food, and book a more budget-friendly tour.

For those who want to treat themselves, plan to spend around $2,500, which will house you in luxury hotels and dine you at more excellent restaurants.

These budgets are calculated per person and don’t include your flight to and from Malaysia.

What to pack

It is advised to dress moderately while travelling around Malaysia. Of course, you wear swimsuits at the beach, but remember that you must not go in total nudity.

Make sure to pack a long and lightweight cardigan or jacket to cover your legs and shoulders, especially when visiting religious or sacred places. Some areas will also require women to cover their heads. Hence, a lightweight scarf is something you should pack.

Check our what to pack article for a 3-week trip . We also have a summer packing list that might be helpful.

How to get around

Getting around Malaysia is relatively easy. Kuala Lumpur has buses and metro rails that go around the city . There are also ride-hailing apps that you can download and use. In contrast, many bus companies can take you from one city to another.

Flying domestically is also easy . It’s affordable, and pretty much all tourist destinations have an airport. So let’s say you want to hit all the top cities, you can fly from KL to Penang or Langkawi, or even Sabah (Kinabalu).

Unlike other parts of Southeast Asia, you can use your IDP (International Driver’s Permit) in Malaysia or your international driver’s license without converting it to a local one . You can rent a car here and drive on your own, but remember that the Malaysian driving side is on the left side (just like the UK, AU, and NZ).

Malaysia offers free visas to nearly everyone for 12-90 days except for some countries in Africa, South Asia, and China. Travellers with a passport from China and most of South Asia will have to apply for an evisa valid for three months for a maximum stay of 30 days.

Package tours

For people who prefer a hassle-free trip and would rather have someone make the arrangements for you, you should look into package tours. This is the kind of service where you book the tour and the tour host will arrange accommodation, activities, food, guides, and even porters to make your trip convenient.

Other travel tips

One last thing you should remember is that alcoholic drinks are legal and can be obtained anywhere in the country. However, it’s costly. When it comes to arranging your booking, here is a list of websites and tools I use when travelling to book accommodations, tours, and more.

MUST-SEE PLACES IN MALAYSIA (pinned map)

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

ALSO READ: 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary

3 WEEKS IN MALAYSIA ITINERARY

You can spend 21 days in Malaysia and be able to visit Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi, and Perhentian Islands. Y ou might have to track back in some areas to get to the next destination , but that’s fine, I will walk you through it.

Day-to-day overview

• Day 1 : Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You can use the bus shuttle as a budget option or book a private transfer for comfort and to save time to get to your hotel in downtown KL. If you arrive early, get a local sim card with data.
• Day 2 : Explore Kuala Lumpur’s top attractions; perhaps book a city tour including Batu Caves
• Day 3 : Day trip to Genting Highlands or Port Klang.
• Day 4: Travel from KL to Cameron Highlands by bus, you can fly to Ipoh then a van or bus to Cameron Highlands
• Day 5 : Travel around Cameron Highlands, visit tea plantations
• Day 6 : Hike around Cameron Highlands
• Day 7 : Get from Cameron Highlands to Penang by bus , takes around 4-5 hours
• Day 8-9 : Spend time discovering Penang street art and food
• Day 10 : Go to the beach
• Day 11 : Transfer from Penang to Langkawi by boat or plane , travel time is 40 minutes to 3 hours
• Day 12 : Rent a motorbike and go to Langkawi SkyBridge
• Day 13 : Book a mangrove or boat tour
• Day 14 : Do paragliding and explore downtown Kuah
• Day 15 : Travel from Langkawi to Perhentian Islands by plane and bus , then transfer to a ferry. Fly to Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu, then a bus or minivan to Besut , then a ferry to the islands
• Day 16 : Relax on the beach
• Day 17 : Sign up for snorkelling, boat tour, or diving
• Day 18 : Enjoy the islands
• Day 19 : Travel from Perhentian Islands back to KL or where you’re catching your flight home, souvenir shopping
• Day 20 : Flight home

Kuala Lumpur for 4 days

Kuala Lumpur is most likely where you will land . Some people love this city, some don’t, and I totally understand. The bustling city, skyscrapers, and hot and humid weather are not a great combination.

However, there are many things to see and explore in Kuala Lumpur. Besides, while you are here, you can gather yourself, buy items you might need, and finalise your next destination.

The best way to get to the city is from the airport by taxi or booking a car. If you are on a budget, you may also use the airport shuttle bus, which you can book at the arrival area. You can skip Cameron Highlands and book a day trip from Kuala Lumpur.

Things to see in Kuala Lumpur

• Petronas Twin Towers – Twin Tower observation deck and Batu Caves combo tour
• Malacca/Melaka – you can enjoy a full-day trip from KL
• Menara Kuala Lumpur
• Genting Highlands – get on a day tour from KL that includes Batu Caves
• Dataran Merdeka
• KL Tower – buy your admission ticket to skip the line
• Central Market
• Try local street food – book a night tour
• Thean Hou Temple
• Batu Caves – you can book a half-day tour or combine Batu Caves with the National Mosque tour
• Ilham Gallery
• Kuala Selangor – see the glowing Kuala Selangor firefly tour
• Buffet Dinner at Atmosphere 360

Accommodations in Kuala Lumpur

• Affordable: Space Hotel in Chinatown or Amethyst Dorm in KLCC
• Mid-range: Ceylonz Suites by Five Senses or Queens Service Suites at Times Square
• Luxury: The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel or Eastern Suites at Platinum KLCC

Cameron Highlands for 3 days

You can drive your own car or take the bus from Kuala Lumpur. It’s about a 3-hour drive to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur. This region is famous for its cooler weather, massive green areas, and lots of outdoor activities you can do, such as hiking.

Simply put, Cameron Highlands is the opposite of Kuala Lumpur . A visit here will give you a glimpse of Malaysia’s tropical forest.

Things to see in Cameron Highlands for 3 days

• Jungle Trail 1 (Gunung Brinchang)
• Mossy Forest
• Tringkap Hiking Trail
• Lavender Farm
• Strawberry picking at Kampung Taman Sedia
• Boh Tea Estate Habu
• Day trip to Taman Negara
• Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No. 5
• Lata Merkor or Geruntum Falls

Accommodations in Cameron Highlands for 3 days

• Hostel: Traveller Bunker Hostel 1 or Bricks Backpackers Sleeper Box
• Apartment-style: Peony Square Residences or TR Homestay

Penang for 4 days

You can reach Penang by bus from Cameron Highlands, which is about 250 km (155 mi) or a 3.5-hour drive. Penang is an island west of Malaysia connected by the Jambatan Pulau Pinang and the Second Penang Bridge. You can also get to the island by taking a short ferry ride from Butterworth.

3 weeks in Malaysia is incomplete without visiting this island. Penang is well-liked for its unique 3D street art, delicious food scene, diverse culture, and incredible place for a dip . Although an island, Penang has low-rise buildings and a lot of greenery and hiking trails.

Things to see in Penang

• Walk around and find Penang Street Art – there’s a full-day tour for this
• Fort Cornwallis
• Dark Mansion Museum – book a tour
• Hawker Centres – to try local street food
• Penang Hill – combine this with Temple Tour
• Masjid Terpung Tanjung Bungah
• Kek Lok Si Temple
• George Town Street Food – enjoy a 4-hour tour or an evening food tour
• Penang Little India
• Countryside Cycling – read the tour reviews
• Penang National Park
• Explore the colonial architecture of Penang: Queen Victoria Tower, City Hall, and St. George’s Church
• Orangutan Island – join the half-day tour
• Upside Down Museum
• Escape Penang Water Park
• Cheong Fatt Tze’s Blue Mansion – visit with a local guide
• Wonderfood Museum
• Explore George Town with a local guide visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Accommodations in Penang

• Affordable: Cocoa Mews Cafe and Homestay or Tony’s Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Modern Hotel or Gallivant Hotel
• Luxury: Eastern & Oriental Hotel or Maritime Suites by Comfy

Langkawi for 4 days

Langkawi is an island north of Penang, right at the border of Thailand. Getting to Langkawi is quite fun, well, unless you get seasick. You will arrive on a duty-free island by taking a 3-hour ferry or a 35-minute flight . This means that compared to other places in Langkawi, it is a little cheaper.

IMPORTANT UPDATE : You can’t take the ferry from Langkawi to Penang (and vice versa) anymore. The service has stopped since the pandemic and still unsure when it will be back in operation. The best choice is to book a flight between these two islands.

You can make your transportation from the airport to your accommodation if you book a private airport transfer or use ride-hailing apps. There will also be taxis if you prefer that.

Things to see in Langkawi

• Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car – get on a private tour
• Pulau Payar
• Pulau Lembu
• Kilim Geopark Mangrove – check this tour or this Mangrove Safari boat tour , you can also do a Kayak tour
• Eagle Square
• Mahsuri Tomb and Museum / Kota Mahsuri
• Galeria Perdana
• Tanjung Rhu Geoforest Park – get there on a sunset kayak trip
• Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls
• Dayang Bunting Island – visit this place and the Langkawi archipelago on a jet ski tour
• Gunung Raya
• Langkawi Countryside – go on a bike tour
• Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise
• Parasailing on Langkawi Beach
• Private island tour – visit all must-see attractions and will save you time as well

Accommodations in Langkawi

• Affordable: Motordorm Backpackers Hostel or Dar Yasmine Motel
• Mid-range: Cloud9 Holiday Cottages or Chill Suites
• Luxury: Villa Molek or Ombar Villa

Perhentian Islands for 5 days

Relaxing on Malaysia’s most beautiful beach is a great way to end your 3 weeks in Malaysia vacation. Perhentian Islands are located on the west-east side of Malaysia near Kelantan. It’s your dream crystal clear water, fine white sand beaches, and serenity . Even though these groups of islands are undeniably stunning, not many tourists get to reach this area.

To reach this magnificent location, you will have to travel back to Penang (or Kuala Lumpur), where you can take a direct flight to Kota Bharu (which is Kelantan). From the airport, take a taxi that will take you to Kuala Besut. From here, you will take a ferry to the islands.

You can also fly to Kuala Terengganu, take a taxi to Kuala Besut, and then take a ferry to the islands.

Things to see in Perhentian Islands

• Scuba Diving
• Snorkelling
• Jungle Trekking
• Turtle Beach – you can simply take a look or volunteer at the sanctuary
• Adam and Eve Beach
• Terengganu Marine Park
•  Tupai Beach Bar

Accommodations in Perhentian Islands

• Affordable/Mid-range: Samudra Beach Chalet or Perhentian Chomel Chalet
• Luxury: Bubu Resort or Aluna Resort

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN MALAYSIA

You should spend your 3-week holiday in Malaysia for many reasons, but what makes it worth the visit is how welcoming the locals are and how easy it is to travel around. You can easily hop from one place to another.

Whether you like cities with high-speed trains and tall buildings or are looking into spending time on the beach and hiking, Malaysia has something to offer you.

I hope that you found this itinerary for 3 weeks in Malaysia helpful. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to pack some sunscreen!

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These Are Going to Be the Most Popular Travel Destinations in 2024

A lready thinking about where you want to travel in 2024 ? If you’re hoping to hit the hottest travel destinations of the year, Expedia Group is here to help. The one-stop travel site—alongside Hotels.com and VRBO—just released Unpack '24 , a travel trends analysis for the coming year. In addition to detailing the projected top 10 most popular international destinations of 2024, the site also revealed 10 “dupes” for travelers looking to perhaps spend a bit less, as well as those hoping to be surrounded by fewer fellow tourists. Additionally, they revealed 10 affordable cities where the world’s biggest musical acts are set to perform, as well as where to travel if you live a sober lifestyle.

“At Expedia Group, we have extensive first-party travel data that we use to enhance and curate experiences for our travelers across Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo,” Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, says in the report. “These insights shape our travel forecasts, revealed in Unpack '24, enabling our travelers to be the first to discover and book the most desired trips before they become well-beaten paths.”

Ready to ignite your travel bug? Ahead, discover the most popular travel destinations of 2024.

The Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2024

Expedia Group predicts that travelers are most likely to jet set to destinations popularized in fan-favorite TV shows and movies. According to the report, “More than half of travelers say they’ve researched or booked a trip to a destination after seeing it on a TV show or in a movie. In fact, travelers say TV shows influence their travel decisions more than Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts.” With that in mind, they reveal that the top 10 travel destinations of 2024 are as follows:

• Thailand - Featured in White Lotus , Season 3—which has sadly been pushed to premiere in 2025
• Romania - Featured in Wednesday , Season 2—which has not yet set a release date
• Malta - As seen in Gladiator 2 , which is set to premiere on November 22, 2024
• Paris - As seen in Emily in Paris
• Scottish Highlands - Featured in Outlander
• London, Bath, and Windsor, U.K. - As seen in Bridgerton and The Crown
• South Korea - Featured in Squid Game —the Season 2 release date has yet to be announced
• Florida Keys - As seen in the series Bad Monkey
• Australia - Featured in Baz Luhrmann’s Faraway Downs series, as well as the film Furiosa , which is set to premiere on May 24, 2024
• Greece - as seen in the films Argylle (set to release in 2024) and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

The Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes

Dupes have long been lauded in the beauty and fashion categories, and now the concept is making its way to travel. “1 in 3 of those polled say they’ve booked a dupe,” the report reveals. “But what do these less obvious alternatives offer besides potential savings? They’re often less crowded, tend to be a little unexpected, and can be every bit as delightful as the tried-and-true destinations.”

Intrigued by the idea of booking a stellar vacation for a fraction of the price? Check out Expedia Group’s Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes, below, which are listed as the original destination of inspiration and the dupe that mirrors it.

• Seoul —> Taipei
• Bangkok —> Pattaya
• Santorini —> Paros
• Saint Martin —> Curaçao
• Sydney —> Perth
• London —> Liverpool
• Lisbon —> Palermo
• Geneva —> Québec City
• Zermatt —> Sapporo
• Nashville —> Memphis

The Top 10 Tour-Inspired Travel Destinations

Music lovers, this one’s for you! As you well know, traveling to see your favorite artists live is expensive, to say the least. With this in mind, Expedia set out to find the most affordable destinations where the world’s most famous pop and rock stars are set to take the stage in 2024.

Through their research, in which they analyzed the average daily rates of tour locations, they found the top 10 most affordable cities (less than $150/night on average) where travelers can witness the likes of Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Coldplay, Metallica, Madonna, and more. They are as follows:

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - $91
• Edmonton, Canada - $108
• Mexico City, Mexico - $119
• Warsaw, Poland - $119
• Birmingham, U.K. - $127
• Houston, Texas - $130
• Antwerp, Belgium - $140
• Tokyo, Japan - $147
• Perth, Australia - $148
• Detroit, Michigan - $149

For more research-backed travel trends, be sure to check out Expedia’s full Unpack ‘24 Trend Report .

What to know for booking summer travel: Expert tips on airfare, destinations and more

Where to score flight deals during the prime summer travel season.

As the surge of summer travel draws near, the race to book a great vacation is on.

"If you're looking to travel domestically within the U.S., I think you should be booking now for summer travel," Clint Henderson, travel expert and managing editor of The Points Guy, told "GMA."

Earlier this month while reporting quarterly earnings, Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian projected "record advance bookings for the summer," telling CNBC that the carrier's credit card data and bookings show customers are highly interested in air travel.

An increase in budget airline routes that has created more competition, paired with an easing of the post-pandemic revenge travel surge, means travelers could see more deals.

"Overall prices are down from where they were when we just had that boom out of the pandemic," Henderson said. "So things are more reasonable."

Hopper, the flight booking app, has shown predicted fares for flights to Europe will be down 10% in price from the same time last year.

Google recently announced its top 20 trending summer destinations , which saw a few newcomers on the list and Paris rose to the No. 2 spot.

With the Olympics taking place there from July 26 through Aug. 11, an uptick in airfare and hotel pricing is expected during the Games.

But those willing to wait out the Olympics could find big savings for flights to the host nation.

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The Points Guy has featured deals from Atlanta, Dallas and Charlotte to Paris for as low as $515 from August through the fall.

Amsterdam, Prague, Spain and Iceland are among the most reasonably priced European destinations, as seen on Hopper.

Tips for booking summer travel

Don't forget to stay flexible with travel dates and keep midweek in mind for possibly lower fares.

There's also a time during the post-summer rush known as "shoulder season," between September and October, when fares could drop by as much as 30%.

When it comes to airfare purchase timing, the experts at The Points Guy have found prices dip eight to four weeks before the outbound flight, but after the one-month mark, prices will creep back up.

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ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

Malaysia's best road trips take in rainforests, beaches and more

Feb 21, 2022 • 11 min read

Kuala Lumpur is the start point for thrilling drives to colonial townships, Malay cities and jungle outposts © Getty Images / EyeEm / Rosley Majid

With a wide-reaching bus system and fast trains whizzing across the country from the capital, Kuala Lumpur, it's easy to explore Malaysia without ever stepping inside a car. But exploring with your own wheels opens up a whole world of unexplored small towns, former colonial hamlets, misty mountains, forgotten lakes and viridian rainforests.

Most Malaysian roads are well maintained and perfectly paved – even in the remoter corners of the country – so exploring the country with a hire car is a real no-brainer. The majority of travelers can fly in, rent a car with a home license for 90 days, making for easy road trips across this country of beaches, jungles and historic cities.

To get you on the road, here are the eight best road trips in Malaysia.

The great West Coast crawl

Best scenic drive.

Kuala Lumpur–Penang; 249 miles (400km); allow 6 days

Skip the busy E1 highway north of Kuala Lumpur and trace the less-traveled west coast on Route 5 via a string of often missed towns such as riverside Kuala Selangor (home to the historic Bukit Malawati fort) and rural Sekinchan . Pass through endless paddy fields and veer inland to Teluk Intan via Sabak to marvel at the Menara Condong , Asia’s own version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Route 5 snakes back to the coast via Sitiawan and Lumut, where frequent ferries leave to Pulau Pangkor , home to flocks of hornbills, boat-making workshops and peaceful jungle-backed coves.

Continuing north, Route 60 stays glued to the sea, skirting Segari’s turtle conservation center and the beaches of Pantai Remis, a hub for Sino-Malay food. Up next is the unmissable lake town of Taiping , voted the third most sustainable city in the world in 2019, from where it’s a 15-minutes detour to mangrove boat rides and fresh seafood in Kuala Sepetang.

Take a left turn along the A190 at the Simpang Empat Semanggol turnoff and time travel back to colonial Malaya in the fishing town of Kuala Kurau. Branch off to nearby Kuala Gula, home to Malaysia’s biggest bird sanctuary and the Hua Seng Keng temple, a life-sized depiction of the ghoulish layers of Buddhist Hell.

Make one last stop in Parit Buntar to buy a bag of much-loved Guan Hiang biscuits (and take an evening firefly cruise in nearby Nibong Tebal, if time allows). To finish up, cross to Penang island by whizzing over the 15 mile (24km) Second Bridge to the southern beaches of Permatang Damar Laut, facing the island’s most scenic bay. Traipse up to historic George Town to finish off with a spectacular street food dinner.

East Coast road trip 

Best for beaches and islands.

Kota Bahru–Kuantan or Pekan; 230 miles (370km); allow 4 days

This classic coastal ride packs a punch, with splendid turquoise-ringed islands, minaret-studded river estuaries and cultural surprises along the fringes of Peninsular Malaysia’s most devoutly Islamic states. Before you leave Kota Bharu , Kelantan’s conservative capital, cruise 12.5 miles (20km) north to check out the group of curious Sino-Thai temples dotting the countryside around Tumpat, gateway to Thailand ’s troubled southern province of Narathiwat. Wat Mai Suwan Kiri (Dragon Boat Temple) is particularly striking. 

Start by the journey south by following the coast. A string of wide, empty beaches rolls all the way to Kuala Terengganu and Marang, and some of Malaysia’s most gorgeous islands – Pulau Perhentian , Pulau Redang and Pulau Kapas – are just a short boat ride away. The easiest island for a day trip is Pulau Perhentian, served by regular fast boats from Kuala Besut.

Route 3 hugs the shoreline as it plunges south past forgotten coves (stop to admire the imposing twin boulders at the mouth of Kemasik Beach) to reach the surf playground of Cherating . As you roll into Kuantan , the pace of life gets a tad faster; a sunset stroll at lively Pantai Teluk Cempedak and dinner at its busy food court are must-dos. To extend the trip, head 25 miles (40km) south to Pekan, with its unique collection of aristocratic Malay architecture.

The jungle drive

Best for families.

Penang–Kuala Lumpur; 434 miles (700km); allow 10 days

Start in Penang and see how quickly Malaysia’s urban surge gives way to the drowsy rhythms of the remote settlements dotted around the country’s mountainous and jungly interior. Beginning in George Town ’s incensed-wafted colonial center, drive across Kedah state to Lenggong, perhaps Malaysia’s least-known Unesco World Heritage Site . Hollowed out by a meteorite impact, this little-explored valley boasts a cluster of prehistoric sites and caves dating back 1.83 million years.

Continue to Tasik Temenggor, a man-made lake offering charming houseboat stays and easy access to Royal Belum State Park , one of the last remaining habitats for the critically endangered Malayan tiger. Route 4 keeps climbing across the 6890ft (2100m) Titiwangsa Range before plunging via Jeli to Dabong, where Gunung Stong State Forest Park and the deep limestone cave complex of Gua Ikan make for perfect pit-stops.

Swing by Gua Musang to reach blissful Pulai, a remote Chinese Hakka community that was only reached by a tarmac road in 1978. Its sloshing river is backed by rows of limestone karst pinnacles reminiscent of China’s Guilin .

Before you reach sleepy Jerantut, the main gateway to the jungle wonders of Taman Negara, there’s more caving and hiking at Merapoh and a chance to encounter the leftovers of British colonial rule in Kuala Lipis, once an important stop for Malaysia’s discontinued Jungle Railway. Spend at least a day hiking in Taman Negara (or exploring by boat), and then drive towards the capital, stopping for a taste of spiky durian at Temerloh or jumbo-sized encounters at Kuala Gandah’s elephant sanctuary .

The final ascent over cloud-enshrouded peaks on the Karak Highway is best broken either at the casinos and theme parks of the Genting Highlands , or with a glamping stay in the quaint riverside village of Janda Baik. Wrap up with a well-deserved dose of shopping and modernity at Kuala Lumpur’s Suria KLCC mall, and pay your respects to the 140ft (43m) golden statue of Lord Murugan fronting the 272 rainbow-colored steps that lead to the Hindu shrines of the Batu Caves .

Southern Malaysian crawl

Best for food and culture.

Kuala Lumpur–Johor Bahru; 318 miles (512km); allow 5 days

Leave the bustle of the capital behind to experience sand, culture and nature on both sides of the peninsula. Start by driving down the southwestern coast, taking in the beach resort of Port Dickson and the former Dutch colonial outpost (and fusion food hub) of Melaka , now a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Before cutting across the peninsula to Mersing – the main ferry port for wild and lovely Pulau Tioman – try a smorgasbord of Chinese and Malay food in Muar, the diminutive royal city of Johor state, and take a pit stop in offbeat Kluang to hike to the scenic summit of Gunung Lambak.

With a couple of extra days, consider the short detour north to Bekok and the waterfalls and villages of Endau-Rompin National Park, home to many communities of Orang Asli – literally, "first peoples." Driving south from Mersing, the southeastern coast curves to reach the swanky beach resorts of Desaru, famed for a sandbar that becomes a 'sky mirror' at low tide. It’s just a short drive to sprawling Johor Bahru , Malaysia’s southernmost city, which rises just across the strait from futuristic Singapore .

Sarawak explorer

Best for wildlife and indigenous culture.

Kuching–Miri; 466 miles (750km); allow 6 days

Experience amazing wildlife, indigenous Dayak culture and lush coastal scenery by driving a considerable section of the Pan Borneo Highway. Before you leave Kuching , pay a visit to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre for encounters with rescued orangutans (come for feeding time at 9am and 3pm daily), then drive inland past low, forested hills and ramshackle roadside settlements to Salcra junction. A short detour to Lubuk Hantu leads to Batang Ai National Park , an artificial lake teeming with wildlife and ringed by Iban longhouses.

Grab some juicy pineapples as you pass through quaint Sarikei before reaching the riverport of Sibu, where delicious Teochew cuisine pairs well with trips to 18th-century longhouses in nearby Bawang Assan. Join the coast at Mukah , the main settlement of the seafaring Melanau people, and consider an overnight stop at the superb Lamin Dana , a boutique cultural lodge preserving local heritage in Kampung Tellian.

The quiet glare of the South China Sea will shimmer on your windshield until you reach oil-rich Bintulu, where Pantai Tanjung Batu is a good spot to tuck your toes into the sand. Head northeast of the city to Similajau National Park for jungle hikes before hitting the road again towards Miri .

The staggering limestone caves of Niah National Park are a must-stop along the way; inhabited for nearly 40 millennia, they contain some of Southeast Asia’s oldest human bones. After a day trip to Lambir Hills National Park south of Miri, end this epic drive at sunset on Canada Hill – the site of the city’s first oil well – and enjoy views over the city’s sprawling coastline.

Kelabit Highland’s Logging Track

Best extreme road trip.

Miri–Bario; 155 miles (250km); 10–14 hours

Almost everyone takes the thrilling Twin Otter flight from Miri to reach Bario, principal township of the fascinating Kelabit Highlands, an indigenous heartland straddling the border between Sarawak and Indonesian Kalimantan . However, a few hardy adventurers access the highlands by driving 4x4 vehicles along the rough and muddy logging track that winds from Miri into upper Sarawak’s wild interior.

Snaking through endless palm oil plantations – a sad reminder of Malaysia’s problematic logging issues –  this drive will rattle your bones at every turn for 12 long hours before you finally rumble into the very Catholic village of Bario, where lingering longhouses are a reminder of waning tribal lifestyles.

Classic Sabah crossing

Best coast-to-coast road trip.

Kota Kinabalu–Sandakan; 200 miles (325km); allow 5 days

Take your leave of Kota Kinabalu ’s night markets and outlying islands and head west towards 13,435ft (4095m) Mt Kinabalu , Malaysia’s highest peak. Almost everyone makes the two-day, one-night trek to the summit, but you can also check the pulse of Sabah’s indigenous art scene at the Living Arts Center in charming riverside Tamparuli, and meet the woodcut artists of the Pangrok Sulap collective in Ranau before bunking down in alpine-like Kundasang.

Leaving the mountains behind, cut through the heart of Sabah, skirting small towns and ever-present palm oil plantations to the Sukau junction, where a worthy detour on the Kinabatangan River promises thrilling wildlife spotting by boat and atmospheric riverside accommodation. Roll on to Sepilok, with its world-renown orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries. A few more miles will take you to slow-paced, multicultural Sandakan and its bay filled with WWII history and fresh seafood.

Sabah by the backdoor 

Best offbeat road trip.

Lahad Datu–Kota Kinabalu; 350 miles (564km); allow 7 days

To encounter some of Borneo’s most impressive rainforests, marine life and indigenous culture, take off from the coastal town Lahad Datu , beginning in either the Danum Valley Conservation Area or the Tabin Wildlife Reserve . Drive across the palm-strewn coast to the ugly duckling town of Semporna , the jump-off point for paradise islands such as Mabul, Kapalai and protected Sipadan, one of the world’s best dive sites.

Back on land, try Tawau ’s deserted beaches and follow nature trails at Tawau Hills Park before setting out for a lonesome drive across Sabah’s hilly interior to Orou Sapulot , an important hub for the Murut people, and the town of Keningau at the bottom of the flower-studded Crocker Range. End at Kota Kinabalu’s busy seafront and glitzy shopping malls, after one more stop in Tambunan, access point for 8668ft (2642m) Mount Trusmadi, Sabah’s second-highest peak. 

Tips for driving in Malaysia

Malaysia drives on the left, like the UK, and citizens of the 54 countries in the Commonwealth can rent a car using their home driving licenses for up to 90 days (other nationals will also need to carry an International Driving Permit).

To access any toll road in Malaysia, including the bridges leading to Penang island, you'll need to pay with a rechargeable Touch’n’Go card that is only issued to Malaysians. Ask your rental company for one if you plan on driving any stretch of the North-South Expressway (Route E1) or the Karak Highway connecting Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan. Most other roads are well paved and toll-free.

The countryside is relatively quiet, but when driving in cities, be prepared for drivers flouting traffic rules, especially in Penang, whose erratic traffic is hard for even Malaysians coming from other states to cope with. Kuala Lumpur's traffic system is also bewildering for first-timers. On weekdays, traffic jams are the norm in most Malaysian cities; Saturdays are usually quieter than Sundays.

You may also like: 'Ghosts are a big part of life in Malaysia': healing one year after losing my parents to COVID 12 best things you have to do in Singapore Singapore's best places to sling yourself into

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The kids are going to summer camp. Time to plan an adult vacation.

The nearby trip can be comforting while also maintaining independence.

Michelle Minor drove more than 600 miles last summer to drop off her 12-year-old son at NASA space camp, his first overnight summer camp. Once he was settled in, Minor didn’t drive back home. She and her partner drove about two hours away to Nashville, where they stayed for the week.

“I wanted to be close. That’s really it. I did not feel like I could have him far away,” Minor said, who lives in Evanston, Ill., multiple states away from her son’s camp in Alabama. “I think he kind of also felt comforted by the fact that I was close by, that I wasn’t states and states away.”

It was an added bonus that for the first time in a long time, Minor and her partner got to enjoy a couples vacation. They’re planning a similar trip this August, when Minor’s son goes back to overnight camp.

“We could get to know each other as just adults again, doing things that we like, that aren’t necessarily related to us being parents, like art museums or live music. ... We could actually go see live music that starts at 9 p.m., and we don’t have to get up and make scrambled eggs at 7:30,” she joked.

Every summer, more than 26 million kids and adults attend camps, with overnight camps increasing their enrollment, according to the American Camp Association. As some parents sort out their children’s summer plans and make camp packing lists, they’re also planning nearby trips of their own. Here’s how to start thinking about one.

What to consider

Jody LeVos, chief learning officer at the children’s education company Begin, said staying close by while kids go to camp can be comforting for parents, but still allows children to build friendships and independence.

“It’s not going to impact the child’s experience. They’re away from their parents, whether the parent is half an hour away or six hours away, so it’s more about the parent and what makes them comfortable,” LeVos said.

She says each child develops independence at their own pace, but when they’re emotionally and mentally prepared, overnight camp can be a great opportunity for kids to enhance their skills. The transition, however, can be nerve-racking for parents who are seeing their child’s growing independence.

“Parents may be asking the what-ifs, you know, what happens if my child needs me or gets hurt? And so there is some anxiety around, what will the child do when I’m not there to protect them or respond to their every need?” LeVos said.

She recommends practicing overnight camp routines with children who are going away for the first time, like having them sleep in their sleeping bag at home first and practicing other routines that may typically get done with help from parents.

Melanie Gast is planning her first summer vacation spent without her older kids. After years of attending camps near their home in West Palm Beach, Fla., her 13-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son will attend their first overnight camps during the same week; an outdoors summer camp for the eldest, and a nearby overnight science camp for her son.

“I look at this as an amazing vacation for my husband and I,” Gast said. She and her husband will bring their 2-year-old daughter along on the trip to Memphis, but they’re planning to take turns entertaining her at the hotel while the other parent visits Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum and other sights.

“We’ll still have a baby, but that’s really different than having a teenager and a 10-year-old,” Gast said. “So for me this is the best it can get.”

Most parents find a camp first then find a nearby city to explore, but it’s possible to reverse engineer that part of the process. The most important thing to do is make sure the chosen camp will be one that keeps your child engaged from start to finish. Once your kid is enrolled, you can start planning your own nearby getaway, but know that unforeseen hiccups at camp could cut a parent’s vacation short, such as illness.

Gast chose Memphis as the city she wanted to visit for vacation, then found summer camps for her children that were within a driving range that made her comfortable. Both Gast and Minor said a city that’s about a three-hour drive or less from camp is best.

LeVos says parents who are nervous about how well their child is adapting to their new environment should make time for movement to relieve stress.

“Going for a walk at night, looking up at the stars, knowing that your child is looking at the same stars can be really helpful and remind families that they may be a little bit apart, but they’re still together,” she said.

LeVos also recommends journaling, for both children at camp and their parents, to explore what emotions come up when the family is apart. Once reunited, family members can use their notes as an entry point for understanding how the time went for everyone.

A win for both parents and kids

At the end of camp, LeVos says children will likely return home feeling proud of the way they cared for themselves and developed new skills for managing their emotions.

That’s what Minor experienced when her son returned from camp last year. He did better than she expected. “I was like, ‘Oh, okay, you did bring all the clothes home? You actually wore all of them versus wearing the same thing? Oh, you did good.’ Those are important life skills,” she said.

She’s more comfortable sending her son back for another overnight camp this year, but she’ll still be vacationing nearby, just in case.

“This is an opportunity to not only still be the best parent – because as a parent, you get a lot of credibility when you send your kid to space camp, but then you also get to enjoy some of the benefits in a rewarding way,” Minor said. “Everybody wins here.”

Sheeka Sanahori is a travel journalist and video producer based in Atlanta. You can find her on Instagram: @sheeka.sanahori .

Dive Into Malaysia

Top 12 Malaysia Road Trip Adventures From Singapore, KL And Borneo

Heading to Malaysia or based in Singapore or Malaysia and looking for the ultimate Malaysia road trip?

You are not alone. Malaysia is a great country to explore by car with many fun destinations and experiences waiting for you. In fact, a road trip around Malaysia is our favourite way to explore this country as it’s just so easy and there are so many places worth visiting within a short drive of just about anywhere!

To help make planning your own road trip in Malaysia, I have listed the best 12 road trips Malaysia offers. I have separated them into sections depending on whether you want Malaysia road trip ideas for a great weekend from Kuala Lumpur, a road trip from Singapore to Malaysia, an East Coast Malaysia road trip, a Borneo road trip or the absolute best road trip in Malaysia.

Just keep reading and pick your best choice from the Malaysia road trip planner below.

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

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.

Driving In Malaysia

If you are new to road trips in this part of the world and are wondering what it’s like to be on the road Malaysia, read my full guide to driving in Malaysia here .

I spent a year living and driving in Malaysia and found it very straightforward and not scary at all. On our frequent trips back from Australia, we usually hire a car as it’s just such a great way to travel in this country. So don’t be worried!! You will be fine.

Click here for my full guide now.

If you don’t want to drive, we can book long distance taxis for you to make things extra easy.

Click here for prices and more information.

If you are starting in Singapore, we can also book long distance taxis which can take you over the border to anywhere in Malaysia. Find more information here.

Road Trip Malaysia Quick Adventures: From Kuala Lumpur

The following road trip ideas in Malaysia are written for either a weekend trip from Kuala Lumpur or slightly longer. You could also follow the first two suggestions if you are looking for a one day road trip in Malaysia.

If you are looking for something longer, keep reading for the big Malaysia road trip section below.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Port Dickson Fun

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Port Dickson – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 1.5 hours each way

Perfect For: Beach lovers looking for a weekend escape

If you need a beach break then the best place for road trip in Malaysia from Kuala Lumpur is Port Dickson.

This coastal area is just an hour and a half from the centre of KL and makes for the perfect escape of city life.

This is the place to lounge on the beach, enjoy a great resort for a great price or maybe even swim in your private pool ( see here for the top private pool villas in Port Dickson ). 

There’s also some great things to do in Port Dickson if you want to fill your days. You can go to the Army Museum, check out ostriches at the Ostrich Farm or play paintball! Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to hike to Cape Rachado and relax at Blue Lagoon .

Read more about Port Dickson in our full travel guide here .

Melaka Adventure

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Melaka – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 1.75 hours each way

Perfect For: Culture lovers looking for a weekend escape or day trip.

Malaysia road trip destinations don’t come much better than the UNESCO-listed city of Melaka.   Less than two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city is full of historic buildings from the British, Dutch, and Portuguese.  Mixed communities of Malays, Malaysian Chinese, Malaysian Indians, Eurasians and more, give Melaka an astonishing mix of culture, religious buildings, customs, and festivals. 

Discover the eclectic mix of temples and churches, and soak up the present-day atmosphere at the main squares of 1Malaysia and Alor Gajash.  Dive into more than 30 museums where you can view restored 19 th -century houses, learn about the city’s colourful history and take an in-depth look at Malaysia’s maritime adventures.

Families will adore the plethora of interactive wildlife options in the city, such as the Melaka Crocodile Farm , Bird Park , or Zoo .  And, your children will beg for a visit to A’Famosa Resort with its fun Water Theme Park , Safari Wonderland and Old West attractions.

Get discounted tickets for Melaka Crocodile Farm here , Melaka Bird Park here and Melaka Zoo here . You can also get discounted tickets for A’Famosa Resort’s Water Theme Park here , Safari Wonderland here and Old West here.   .

Dine on a fantastic variety of street food at over 50 night markets, and enjoy haggling for bargains and souvenirs at the market stalls. 

For a romantic stay, select The Majestic Malacca , a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.  Relax in sumptuous rooms and suites with four poster beds, and spoil yourself with treatments at their Spa Village. 

Families can choose to stay overnight at A’Famosa Resort Malacca – integrated with the theme park – or The Imperial Heritage Hotel in the city.  Close to many attractions, the Imperial is a favourite for children with a swimming pool and karaoke room, whilst parents will appreciate their two-bedroom suites.

Read more about Melaka in our full travel guide here .

Cameron Highlands Escape

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 3 hours each way

Perfect For: Nature lovers wanting a weekend or long weekend trip to cool down

One of the best places for road trips in Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is another top favourite of ours.  You’ll reach this scenic hill station in a three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, where the cool climate and spectacular green views provide a welcome change from city life.

Set along a mountain plateau, high above the river valley, a trip here is a delight for all the family.  Enjoy the lush green terraces of the Boh Tea Plantation, taste sweet strawberries at Raaju’s Hill Farm and smell the exotic roses at Mrs Robertson’s Gardens.  With traditional English Cream Teas at mock-Tudor mansions you’re excused for wondering if you’ve woken up  in England!

Trek rainforest trails in search of local wildlife and revel in the spectacular jungle vegetation, followed by a cool off at a freshwater waterfall.  Along the route, look out for the Orang Asli tribe who reside in traditional villages dotted throughout the area.

Couples should splurge on a stay at the Cameron Highlands Resort – a majestic colonial hotel with stunning views across Pahang’s rolling hills.  Families can consider the mid-range Copthorne Hotel Cameron Highlands also with scenic views, an indoor heated pool, and a great location close to many attractions.

Read more about Cameron Highlands in our full travel guide here .

Perak Adventure

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Ipoh – Kuala Kangsar – Taiping – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 6.5 hours total

Perfect For: People wanting great food and culture in some of the best places in Perak and who have 4-7 nights to spare.

Perak, known as the Land of Grace, is the wonderful west coast state of the Malay Peninsula.  Follow our itinerary for an extreme road trip, Malaysia style! 

Depart Kuala Lumpur travelling three hours to Ipoh, the state’s capital, and check-in for a couple of nights.  Once a small village, Ipoh is now one of Malaysia’s largest cities but has retained its gorgeous British colonial architecture.  Best discovered on Old Town’s Heritage Walk, marvel at the pretty buildings, relax at ancient shophouses operating as cafes, and admire the city’s more recent addition of colorful street murals.

In modern times Ipoh was known for its tin-mining industry – the focus of the wonderful Han Chin Pet Soo Museum.  However, the region is most noted for its centuries-old Buddhist cave temples (check out one with Neolithic images dating back 5000 years and others with stunningly large Buddhas), and dramatic limestone cliffs best discovered at Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

The Lost World of Tambun theme park will keep children busy, with its Tiger Valley, Water Park and Lost World, and families should stay at the onsite hotel to fully appreciate the park’s many rides and attractions.

Get discounted tickets for the Lost world of Tambun here .

Ipoh is perhaps most famous for its food culture, with hundreds of restaurants and hawker food markets mixing Malay, Chinese – Cantonese and Hakka – and Indian flavours.  Hawker stalls, dim-sum restaurants, speciality noodle shops will all tempt you with wafting aromas, and dine on iconic dishes such as nga choi kai, hakka mee, chicken ho fun and wanton mee… washed down with a mug of Ipoh White Coffee.

For those looking for a little pampering we suggest taking a suite (with balcony and lake views!) at The Haven Resort Hotel , Ipoh.  For families or those on a slightly less budget, M Roof Hotel & Residences is ideal.  Set a little outside of the main hustle and bustle of the city centre, the hotel has a variety of apartments and basic hotel rooms, and features a nice rooftop swimming pool. 

Next stop is Taiping but en route take a side trip to Kuala Kangsar, the royal town of Perak.  This off-tourist-route town is home to some of the most impressive buildings we’ve seen in Malaysia, including the Ubudiah Mosque, the Royal Museum of Perak, the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery and Istana Iskandariah, The Royal Palace.  And check out the markets for souvenirs in the form of locally made pottery items.

Reaching Taiping, check-in at your accommodation for another couple of nights, giving yourself time to appreciate this lesser known town.  Similar to Ipoh, Taiping was a centre of the mining industry for decades, with British and Chinese influences still strong today. 

The town’s Heritage Trail, 11.5km, covers over 40 attractions including the British colonial clock tower and the National Heritage All Saints Church.  And pencil in at least a half day for the Perak Museum, with national history galleries and zoological specimens.For children, ensure to include a trip to the Taiping Zoo near to the city’s stunning Lake Gardens.  Home to over 1200 animals, the zoo supports endangered species and is active in conservation and research.

In the evening, return to the zoo for a Night Safari Taiping Experience or travel slightly out of town for a lovely fireflies river cruise at the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve.

If you have time, extend your stay and visit the Orang Utan Island at Bukit Merah.  Easily enjoyed as a daytrip from Taiping, Orang Utan Island is a quiet sanctuary that’s home to endangered Orangutans. Spend a morning learning about efforts being made to protect the natural habitat of these wonderful primates.

Get discounted tickets for the Orang Utan Island Day Tour here .

The Novotel Taiping Perak , in the centre of town and minutes from Lake Gardens, is the ideal option for all travellers.  Equipped with a Kid’s Club and swimming pool, the hotel has a bar and international restaurant.

Read more about Ipoh in our full travel guide here . With extra time, you could also combine this road trip with the one above and add a stop in Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Road Trip From Singapore: Top Options

This section is especially for people who are looking for a road trip to Malaysia from Singapore. They are designed for a weekend or long weekend but you could also extend them to add more time to relax if you have more time for your road trip Malaysia from Singapore or you could combine them with the suggestions above or below.

Port Dickson and Melaka are also popular Singapore to Malaysia road trip destinations and you could follow those itineraries above as well.

Want the Easiest (and BEST) Way to travel between Singapore and Malaysia?

We can book a taxi for you from anywhere in Malaysia to anywhere in Singapore for a great price.

A taxi is the best way to cross the border as you don’t have to leave the air-conditioned comfort of your vehicle.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Johor Explorer

Overview: Singapore – Johor Bahru – Singapore

Driving Time: 50 minutes each way

Perfect For: City lovers or families wanting to explore Johor Bahru and Legoland Malaysia

Less than an hour’s travel from Singapore, this popular destination makes for an easy Singapore Malaysia road trip.   Home to the amazing Legoland, Johor Bahru offers many attractions suitable for both families and couples.  Visit for a daytrip, for a weekend or make this part of a much longer Malaysia trip.

Start your day discovering Johor Bahru’s Old Town, with its mosques, temples, churches, and historical buildings.  Browse the heritage shops and art galleries, admire colorful murals, and relax at alfresco cafes. 

The Chinese Heritage Museum – Tiong Hua Museum – is a great place to spend an hour – or drop by the equally interesting Royal Abu Bakar Museum, housed in what was once the Grand Palace and home to the Royal Family.

A fun place to visit is the famous Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory.  With a history spanning over 80 years, sample delicious buns, biscuits, and their signature banana cake.   Other family favorites include the small Johor Bahru zoo. 

But, of course, children and all those young-of-heart will be hoping to include a visit to the famous Legoland Malaysia .  Super fun for all ages, there are multiple Lego-themed zones and worlds to explore.  Lego bumper cars, Lego planes, interactive Lego… and even a Lego roller coaster!

Get discounted tickets for Legoland Malaysia here.

Looking for somewhere quieter?  Head to Danga Bay, with its 25kms of scenic waterfront that includes a pleasant park, the Danga World Mini Theme Park, Danga City Mall and some fine dining restaurants. 

In the evening check-out Pasar Karat, a large flea market with antiques and souvenirs, and sweet-smelling food stalls that offer vast Asian menus.

If staying overnight, treat the children to a wonderful Lego-themed stay at the Legoland Resort .  Rooms come in various sizes and themes, and the hotel offers special activities for inhouse guests.  Alternatively, for a city stay we suggest the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru .  Ideally located for most attractions, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool on the 13 th floor, four restaurants and a spa, all helping to make this an excellent choice for couples or families.

Read more about Johor Bahru in our full travel guide here .

Tioman Getaway

Overview: Singapore – Mersing (ferry to) Tioman (ferry to) Mersing – Singapore

Driving Time: 2.5 hours driving each way plus ferry ride

Perfect For: Beach and nature lovers who want to escape it all

Tioman is a paradise island, fabulous for anyone looking to chill out for a few nights or families happy to immerse in nature, without the trappings of large resorts and cities.  From Singapore, travel just 2 hours to Mersing and catch the ferry – 1.5-2 hours, weather dependent – to Tioman.

Click here to see the latest timetables and prices

Stunning beaches and coves are surrounded by jungle on one side and the beautiful turquoise sea – teeming with live corals and colourful fish – on the other.  Explore by bicycle, ATV or on foot, trekking jungle trails, passing waterfalls and quaint traditional villages.

Renowned for its excellent diving and snorkelling, the island lures divers from all corners of the globe.  Families visit for a back-to-nature experience, spending relaxing days island-hopping and enjoying reef-protected swimming and water sports in the South China Sea.

Turtle encounters, an 18-hole golf course and duty-free shopping are just a few other available attractions… if you can pull yourself away from the beach!

Treat yourself to a stay at the highly rated Berjaya Tioman Resort , beach-facing with an outdoor pool and home to the golf course.  The resort offers spacious chalets with air conditioning and private balconies, and often promote special packages for families and honeymooners.

Read more about Tioman in our full travel guide here .

Desaru Adventure

Overview: Singapore – Desaru Coast – Singapore

Driving Time: 1.75 hours driving each way plus a ferry ride

Perfect For: Beach lovers who want a fun and easy escape

22 kilometres of Desaru Coast awaits you, with stunning beaches, terrific water sports, and a range of top resorts and accommodation options.  Easily reachable from Singapore – by a short ferry ride and 30 minute drive or alternatively by a 2-hour drive via the Causeway – the Desaru Coast is ideal for weekend or longer stays.

Surprisingly, this popular region continues to have an unspoilt, untouched feel, despite the development of a 21-acres integrated resort.   Boasting five spectacular wet and dry zones in the Adventure Waterpark , a world-class golf course and other attractions, there’s something for everyone! 

Don’t forget to explore the local region too, checking out wildlife interaction at the local Ostrich or Crocodile Farms, cultural experiences at the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village, and fresh-water fun at the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls.

Just looking to relax?  Head to any one of the empty stretches of beach that the area is famous for, all with fine golden sand and calm waters ideal for the plethora of water sports on offer. 

Many of Asia’s top hotel brands can be found at Desaru Coast, including One & Only , The Westin , Anantara and – our favourite – the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast .

Read more about Desaru in our full travel guide here .

Singapore To Kuala Lumpur

Overview: Singapore – Legoland Malaysia – Melaka – Port Dickson – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 6.5 hours in total

Perfect For: People who like variety in their road trips! Have fun at Legoland, experience the culture in Melaka, relax the beach in Port Dickson and then dive into Malaysia’s biggest metropolis at Kuala Lumpur

While you could do this as a direct trip between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, why not have more fun and visit some destinations along the way?

If you are looking for a fun and varied Malaysia adventure, this Singapore to Malaysia road trip itinerary, with exciting stop-overs along the route between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, is perfect.

Commencing from Singapore, drive the short drive to Johor Bahru and check-in at your city-based hotel (we recommend the Double-Tree by Hilton ) or the unique Legoland Resort .  

Take a walk through Old Town and enjoy a snack at any one of the local cafes.  And then it’s time for fun and adventure-overload, as you enjoy a day at Legoland Malaysia .  Offering more than 70 rides, shows and Lego-themed attractions, you’re sure to have a blast!

Next morning, it’s a leisurely drive (2h15m) along AH2 to Muar. This is just a quick stop to check out the amazing street art and to have a little wander around this award-winning clean city.

Not much foreign tourists here so you may have it to yourself! Head to Muar Cultural Walk and Maharani Mural Lane.

Read more about Muar here.

After you’ve filled up your phone with photos, it’s time to head on to nearby Melaka just an hour away on route 5.  Stay for two nights at The Imperial Heritage Hotel or check here for other recommendations, and prepare to discover this ancient UNESCO-listed city. 

Travel by trishaw, taxi or on foot, spending your days exploring museums, historic buildings, temples and churches that all reflect the city’s turbulent history of colonial rule under the Portuguese, British and Dutch.  Feel the Chinese culture, from early settlers of the Ming Dynasty, that continues on today in the Baba & Nyonya communities. 

Take a ride on the Taming Sari Revolving Tower for great city views – noting colonial buildings covered in traditional cherry-red facades – and enjoy a river cruise along the Malacca River. 

Get discounted tickets to Taming Sari Revolving Tower here .

Melaka Zoo and the local Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary are great escapes from the bustling streets.  Or immerse yourself fully in the craziness of the city at the Jonker Walk Night Market and at the bars and karaoke clubs of Melaka Raya.  

And, if all that’s not enough to keep you busy, one of the most famous theme parks in Malaysia – A’Famosa Resort – is on the outskirts of town!

Melaka’s mix of nationality and heritage has spawned a completely unique cuisine in the form of delicious Nyonya dishes, best experienced at street hawker stalls.  Boasting rich food traditions and unique mouth watering flavours, ingredients include tamarind, lemongrass, laksa leaves and coconut milk.  Dine on tasty desserts of sweet potato and yams, combined with glutinous rice.

After two days of fun, it’s time to wave goodbye to Melaka.  Take the coastal road (or re-join the AH2 motorway) for the 1h40m drive to the beach resort town of Port Dickson.  With many affordable hotels, often with ocean-views, select from our listing of best hotels in Port Dickson . Get your suntan-lotion and a book ready, as it’s time to relax!

For your first day, discover the famed 18km shoreline with over a dozen beaches and excellent water sports.  For a real get-away-from-it-all-day, head out to Cape Rachado with 75 hectares of forest wildlife reserve, a historic lighthouse and small secluded beach.  Alternatively, relax at the busier beaches of Pantai Cahaya Negeri or Pantai Saujana offering great facilities and food stalls.

The following day, wake refreshed and ready to explore the region’s history at Lukut with its fort ruins, rainforests at Sungai Menyala, or up the adrenaline with ATV, archery and go-karts at Extreme Park Port Dickson.  Phew!

After two days at Port Dickson it’s time to depart to the bright lights of the capital city Kuala Lumpur.  We recommend a minimum three night stay to enjoy the great range of attractions and things to do in Kuala Lumpur.  

Visit Chinatown, head to the top of the world’s tallest twin towers at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers , and discover the rainforest at KL Forest Eco Park.  Massive shopping centres, temples, wildlife experiences, busy street markets, iconic food, art and cultural museums… the list of things to do is truly endless!  Check out our Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary to help plan out your stay.

A multicultural and dynamic favourite city of ours, accommodation options in Kuala Lumpur run from hostels to world-class luxury hotels.  To help you book your ideal stay we’ve reviewed the best areas and our top selections here: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur . 

Read more about Kuala Lumpur in our full travel guide here . 

The Big Malaysia Road Trip

For the ultimate Malaysian road trip, you can combine both of the following by driving between Penang and Kota Bharu to make a big circuit. This also means you can start and finish your Malaysia East Coast road trip from any of the points on this itinerary.

You could use either of these itineraries for a road trip to Thailand from Malaysia as both get you closer to the Thai border.

Kuala Lumpur To Penang

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Ipoh – Penang

Driving Time: 7 hours in total

Perfect For: People who love exploring different areas and love great food! You need at least 4 nights for this road trip.

Time to hit the road for a West-Malaysia tour!  Commencing from Kuala Lumpur, set off on the 3-hour drive along Route 59 to the cooler climate of the Cameron Highlands hill station.  Check-in to your hotel for a couple of nights and relax, taking in scenic views of rolling hills and rainforests, tinged with colonial nostalgia.

We recommend a 2-night stay to enjoy all the fun activities, and to explore the nature of this gorgeous mountain plateau region.  Temples, tea plantations, rose gardens, cream teas at mock-Tudor mansions, butterfly and bee farms, and possibly your first-and-only taste of Lavender Ice-Cream, will keep you and the family well entertained! 

With fresh mountain air and stunning views, this beautiful region is a delight for trekking.  Follow trails in the lush rainforest to waterfalls and through Orang Asli native villages.  Climb Mount Batu Brinchang, or discover the Mossy Forest and Cactus Valley.

Hotels are speckled throughout the small towns that combine to make up the Cameron Highlands.  One of our favorites is the mid-range Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands , with private balconies offering breathtaking views. Discover more about the towns and accommodation options here .   

Time to say goodbye to the Highlands and head down the twisting mountain road to Ipoh, 2 hours by Route 59 and 185.  Capital of the Perak state, Ipoh is Malaysia’s third largest city and is famed for its cave temples, towering limestone cliffs and well preserved British colonial architecture. 

A pleasure to explore by foot, Ipoh centre is split in two by the Kinta River with Ipoh Old Town on the west side and Ipoh New Town on the east.  Walk the historic streets of the Old Town, lined with ancient Chinese shophouses, admiring wall murals that street artists have added to the crumbling walls.  

Take a hit of Ipoh White Coffee at any one of the cool hipster coffee shops in this laid-back area, set against the backdrop of heritage architecture.  Head to Kong Heng Square, full of vine covered ruins with renovated buildings now housing stylish boutique shops and colorful market stalls.

Spend a day discovering the famous Buddhist cave temples (some with ancient images dating back thousands of years) and the oldest in the region, Sam Poh Tong Chinese Temple.  Travel slightly out of town for spectacular lakes and gorgeous limestone scenery at the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, or to Gopeng for the Gaharu Tea Valley. 

A mixture of Malay, Chinese Hakka and Cantonese, and Indian flavours have helped make Ipoh famous for its food culture.  Hawker food markets are numerous and cheap, offering an endless array of local specialties, or head to Jalan Leong Sin Nam for some tasty dim sum!

Luxury resorts, family hotels with pools and Kids Clubs, and cheap budget hotels are all available.  Splash out on a stay at the majestic Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat with garden, lake or water villas.  Slightly easier on the pocket is the Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites with standard and suite rooms, including 2 and 3-bedroom apartments great for families.   Compare Ipoh hotel options here .

Stay in George Town or at any one of the sprawling beach resorts.  Diverse in location, style and budget, accommodation options are numerous.  Indulge with a stay at the 5-star Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa Penang , located by the beach at Batu Ferringhi.  With multiple pools, restaurants, Kids Club, private golf course and gym, there are endless activities that make it hard to find time to explore the rest of the island! 

Discover more of our favourite Penang accommodation options here .

Depart from Penang International Airport, or continue your adventure by road travelling approx. 2-hours to the Thai border at Wang Prachan, making this part of a wonderful road trip from Malaysia to Thailand.

Read more about Penang in our full travel guide here . 

East Coast Malaysia Road Trip

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cherating – Kuala Terengganu (ferry to) Redang Island (ferry to) Kuala Terengganu – Kuala Besut (ferry to) Perhentian Islands (ferry to) Kuala Besut – Kota Bharu

Driving Time: 8 hours in total plus ferry times

Perfect For: People who love gorgeous beaches, tropical islands and interesting cities and have at least 9 nights

Let’s explore East Coast Malaysia!  Departing from Kuala Lumpur, it’s a 3-hour drive across the country on E8 highway to the coastal resort town of Cherating. 

A popular beach resort area in Pahang, Cherating is a quiet fishing village opening onto a wide beach.  Indulge in snorkeling, surfing and kitesurfing. 

Nearby, the Cherating River is good for kayak adventures or jump on a short cruise to explore the local mangroves.  Keep an eye out for snakes and monkeys along the way and head back in the evening for thousands of fireflies.  Drop by the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary in the north of the village, walkable from most accommodation, to see baby and rescued leatherback turtles.

Dotted with guesthouses and small hotels/chalets, Cherating is also home to Asia’s first Club Med – a 5-star all-inclusive beach resort.  Somewhere a little quieter to stay, the Royale Chulan Cherating Villa is excellent  with 34 beachfront villas and suites.

After a night or two at Cherating, travel north along Highway E8 (2h15m) to Kuala Terengganu.  The royal capital of the Terengganu region, this town was once a simple fishing village until developers discovered oil and rapid development took off! 

It is home to one of the best Chinatowns in Malaysia with Kampong-style stilt houses, and the beautiful “Floating Mosque”.  Discover the history of the region at the largest museum in Malaysia, the Muzim Kompleks Negeri Terengganu.  And head to Bukit Puteri for a 200-metre hill climb for great views across the city, the Sungai Terengganu river mouth and the South China Sea.

Feeling hungry?  Head back to Chinatown and try some delicious Peranakan dishes at Madame Bee’s Kitchen or the Town City Food Court.   For your overnight stay, we recommend the Grand Puteri Hotel .  Only five minutes’ walk from Chinatown and with reasonably priced all-air conditioned rooms, it’s ideal for all travelers.

After a good night’s sleep, wake refreshed and ready for your boat trip to exotic Redang Island!  Ferries depart – usually in the morning – from the Shahbandar Jetty, within Kuala Terengganu.  Remember to check the timings directly at the jetty or have your hotel assist as schedules can be volatile.  See here for full details on travelling to Redang Island.

Reaching Pulau Redang – best visited between late March-October – you’ll gasp in awe at the stunning white powder beaches and crystal-clear waters, set to the backdrop of lush tropical rainforest.  This is paradise, Malaysian-style!

Check-in for 3 nights at our recommended hotel – Laguna Redang – located on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Spend your time relaxing beachside or poolside, snorkeling or diving with the onsite PADI team, sampling treatments at the D’Manja Forest Spa or trekking in the cool rainforest.

After 3 nights at Laguna Redang it’s hard to pull yourself away but there’s still much to discover.  Catch the return ferry to Kuala Terengganu and travel (1h40m) further north along the coast to Kuala Besut for your small ferry (15-pax speedboats) to the Perhentian Islands. 

Expect the boat crossing to be a little wet and to stop at multiple locations dependent on where your fellow travelers are staying… which gives you a great chance to check-out hotels and the islands along the way!  Learn more here .  

Check-in for a 3 night stay at either Kecil – the party-backpacker style island and more livelier of the two, especially at Long Beach – or Besar, the more chilled and family-orientated.

Both islands have simple hotels usually opening directly onto the beach, serving Asian and some international cuisine.  Water sports are popular, as is exploring the interior jungle of the islands.  

No super-luxury resorts on offer, but arguably in the best position and with a swimming pool – a rarity for Perhentian hotels – is The Perhentian Island Resort .  Located on Besar, it has its own stretch of beach with restricted boat access. 

Enjoy slow, peaceful days where time almost seems to stand still until… it’s time to leave!  Jump back on the small ferry/speed boat to Kuala Besut and transfer 1 hour north along the coast to Kota Bharu. 

The largest city in Malaysia’s north-east, we suggest a one-night stay at Hotel Perdana , Kota Bharu – 4-star accommodation near museums and markets.  The city offers a handful of tourist attractions, all located within walking distance of each other.  Discover our Things To Do In Kota Bharu guide, whilst you wait for your onwards connection.

A popular transit point with its well-established airport – the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport – and railway connection to the south, Kota Bharu is also near to the Thai border for those looking to extend their tour into Thailand. 

Read more about Redang Island in our full travel guide here and Perhentian Islands in our full guide here .

Borneo Malaysia Road Trip Itinerary

Looking for a road trip in Malaysian Borneo? Here’s two great choices!

Overview: Kota Kinabalu – Poring Hot Springs – Sandakan – Sungai Kinabatangan – Tawau – Kota Kinabalu

Driving Time: 20 hours in total

Perfect For: Nature lovers who want to see the best Sabah offers on land with two weeks available

On the northeast coast of Borneo is the Malaysian state of Sabah.  Most visitors fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport and spend a few nights in the city before heading out for epic Borneo nature and wildlife adventures.  We suggest to check-in for four nights as Kota Kinabalu, its surrounding rural jungle, and beautiful coastline offer an awesome array of activities and tours!  

Discover the town’s bustling markets selling locally made handicrafts, admire the beautiful City Mosque built on stilts above a lagoon, visit Chinatown, take in spectacular views at Signal Hill Observatory Platform, and don’t miss a ride on the famous Borneo Railway through leafy jungles along the beautiful Sabah coastline.

Outside of the city, you can undertake a fairly easy (relative!) 1N2D climb of 13,000ft Mount Kinabalu, challenge yourself with white-water-rafting at Kiulu River, visit the Klias River for a wetland river cruise searching for proboscis monkeys, or the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park home to tigers, monkeys, gibbons and orang utans!

A full day is needed for island hopping at the spectacular Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the “jewel in the crown” of Sabah.  Covering five islands just off the coast from Kota Kinabalu, enjoy your day snorkeling and lazing over a bbq beach lunch. 

A final favorite of ours is the Monsopiad Cultural Village, 30 minutes outside of the city, which offers a fabulous fun glimpse of life in a traditional Kadazan village. 

The city’s accommodation caters for all budgets with many backpacker style options, alongside more luxurious global-brand hotels.  The Magellan Sutera Resort is our top selection, located at the Sutera Harbour. This sprawling resort is set amongst tropical gardens and has beautiful South China Sea views.  If time allows, split your stay with a couple of nights at the 5-star Gaya Island Resort , set on an island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. 

Dragging yourself away from action-packed Kota Kinabalu, drive across Borneo to the northeast coastal town of Sandakan.  This long 330km travel is on well sign-posted but often pot-holed roads.  Passing alongside Mount Kinabalu, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the Kinabalu National Park.  

Break up the journey with a few stops, including at the awesome Poring Hot Springs to float in their high sulfur pools, and the Sabah Tea Resort Restaurant is a good spot for lunch. 

Reaching Sandakan and Sepilok check-in to your hotel.  There aren’t too many great options in Sandakan with the best options being in nearby Sepilok close to the wildlife experiences. Consider the Sepilok Nature Resort .

For most travelers, Sandakan is synonymous with The Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre , being the main draw for many tourists to Borneo.  Combined with a visit to the adjacent Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre , you’ll spend an interesting day learning about these endangered animals and their disappearing habitat. 

Around Sandakan you’ll find many tour companies offering a myriad of wildlife day tours and encounters, such as visiting the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary or Turtle Islands National Park , special Rainforest Discovery Tours and exploration of the Gomantong Caves, home to millions of swiftlets. 

Best arranged with the hotel as part of a package tour, depart Sandakan for possibly the highlight of your trip, with two nights at the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort on the Kinabatangan River.  Stay at simple rainforest accommodation and spend your time enjoying day cruises and night treks in search of primates – such as the endemic proboscis monkey – birds, and other wildlife.

After two amazing nights depart on a very bumpy drive towards Tawau, where we recommend a 3 night stay.  Many tourists will use this time to head into the Danum Valley Conservation Area – approx. 2.5 hours from Tawau town and, unless you have your own 4WD, only accessible as part of a package with the Danum Valley Field Centre.  

Stunning secondary forest leads slowly into the warm humidity of the primitive jungle.  Stay overnight at the basic Danum Valley Field Centre chalets and experience epic early morning birding, night jungle drives and ancient rainforest day and night guided treks.  Extremely remote, the Danum rainforest is one of Borneo’s most legendary adventures. 

If long travel and muddy treks is not your thing, choose to stay in Tawau – Sabah’s third largest city – and check-in for 3 nights at the Borneo Royale Hotel .  

Spend a day visiting the Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau) with several easy, low-altitude jungle treks, a canopy walk and bird-breeding centre.  22km north of Tawau, you’ll enjoy towering flora, a botanical garden, hot springs and swimmable waterfall, alongside the easy- trekking peaks and trails.

Another full day can be enjoyed at the nearer Bukit Gemok Tawau, only 10km from the town.  With untouched forest full of giant trees and some unique elusive creatures, hike for approximately an hour to the Titian Silara canopy walkway.  

Back in the town, visit local markets specializing in dried salted fish, anchovies and prawns, or handicraft markets full of handwoven baskets and wooden souvenirs. And drop by the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum factory to watch first-hand cocoa processing into beverages and chocolate.  

Return to Kota Kinabalu on direct domestic flight from Tawau Airport.

Click here to see the prices for your dates

Read more about Kota Kinabalu in our full travel guide here . 

Kuching Explorer

Overview: Kuching

Driving Time: Minimal

Perfect For: Nature lovers who want an easy way to see Borneo without switching hotels a lot and have a minimum of 4 nights

Capital of the Malaysian state of Sarawak, Borneo, the fantastic city of Kuching is slowly becoming a top tourist draw.  Charming, compact, with riverside walks, historic buildings and colorful street art, there are many options for easy day trips to the surrounding wilds of Sarawak.

Check-in to your hotel – with our top choice, the Hilton Kuching , centrally located with excellent views of Sarawak River- for 4 nights, giving ample time to discover the city and enjoy our suggested day trips.

One of the most charming cities in southeast Asia, the city’s architectural heritage of White Rajah Brooke-era buildings and 19th-century Chinese shophouses is well preserved.  Though  perhaps the focal point is the winding Sarawak River, flowing through the historic heart of the city.  

Stroll along the river walkways and you’ll find historic buildings such as the Square Tower, Chinese History Museum and Sarawak Steamship Building.

Kuching also has some excellent museums and galleries, reflecting on the region’s fascinating history.  The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita is a must see, telling the remarkable story of the White Rajahs of Sarawak.  And visit the Sarawak Museum, said to hold one of the best collections in southeast Asia.

Cross Kuching’s famous Darul Hana Bridge for good views, and at night enjoy the Darul Hana musical fountain and light show.  Drop into the Main Bazaar and Carpenter Street at Kuching’s old Chinatown, for temples, Chinese medicine and food stalls.

Now it’s time to head out of town, travelling self-guided or as part of a guided tour for some terrific wildlife experiences! 

For the best national park experience in Sarawak – and one of the best places in the area to spot those funny, long-nosed proboscis monkeys – spend a day exploring Bako National Park .  A hot destination for hiking, with a mix of easy and longer trails, and epic jungle rainforest, mangrove swamps and limestone cliffs. 

To reach the Park, get an early start and travel approx. 1 hour outside of Kuching to the small pier next to the Bako Market.  A 20 minutes (often wet!) boat crossing takes you to the Park, where you’ll complete a quick registration at the National Park Headquarters and then you’re all set to explore!

Trails from 0.5km to 5.8km, with varying difficulties, spread out through the park with usually a wide range of wildlife easily spotted not too far from the Headquarters.  Keep binoculars at the ready for cheeky monkeys, Bornean bearded pigs, large monitor lizards and many colourful birds.   

If you prefer to explore the park by kayak, join an organized tour from Kuching for a peaceful 11km river kayak. 

Next up, how about meeting the orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve ?  Probably the most popular day trip from Kuching, whilst there is no guarantee of seeing these semi-wild intelligent primates, there is a fairly good chance outside of the fruiting season (Dec and Jan).  Previously rehabilitated at the centre and returned to the wild, the animals regularly return for twice daily feedings.

Check latest schedules but expect a 9-10am and 3-3.30pm feeding schedule, with the best chance of viewing them at the earlier session, and also be aware of the 1.5km walk from the main building to the feeding area. 

Another great day out is a full day at the Santubong Peninsula , only 35km outside of Kuching.  A popular weekend destination for locals, enjoy the beach and swimming in the South China Sea.  

Take lunch at the gorgeous Damai Beach Resort and walk over to the Sarawak Cultural Village, an open-air “living” museum featuring a collection of longhouse replicas and traditional instruments.  Aim to catch their twice-daily splendid cultural show.

In the late afternoon make your way to the nearby Kuching Wetlands National Park, with over 6000 hectares of mangrove forest.  A mosaic of small rivers, creeks and streams meander through the Park, and are best explored on a Santubong Wildlife Cruise.  Cameras at the ready in search of Irrawaddy dolphins, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and as the light fades fireflies come out to play…   

I hope you enjoyed this Malaysia road trip guide! For more information on Malaysia itineraries, read all our itineraries here . You can also find all our guides to planning a Malaysia trip here .

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!

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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.

In honor of Earth Day 2024, today's Google Doodle takes us on a trip around the world

Want to take a trip around the world? You can in two seconds thanks to Google.

Releasing its annual Earth Day doodle, Google displays the beauty of all six continents around the world. Using satellite technology, the search engine giant created a collage with each Google letter that shows the global sustainability efforts within each continent. The goal for this doodle is to give the audience a tour of positive environmental change in the world.

Here's a look at the Google Doodle for Earth Day:

When is Earth Day 2024?: Get ready to help your planet with our guide to the holiday.

Letters in Earth Day Google Doodle represent climate change progress

Location: Turks and Caicos Islands

Turks and Caicos is home to many biodiversity areas. In an effort to preserve the countries conservation, the island has made an effort to protect natural resources such as reefs and restoring endangered species like the rock iguana.

Location: Scorpion Reef National Park, Mexico .

Flying to the Gulf of Mexico, Google makes a stop in Arrecife de Alacranes. This is the largest reef in the southern Gulf of Mexico and the UNESCO biosphere reserve. In this marine protected area, many coral and several endangered bird and turtle species call this area home.

Location: Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

If you like the cold you'll love Google's pitstop in Iceland. Although the country is well-known for its polar bears, the country has more beauty offer. In 2008, the UNESCO World Heritage Site was established as a national park to protect the ecosystem in and around Europe’s largest glacier. With the mix of volcanoes and glacial ice, this area is able to produce rare landscapes and flora.

Location: Jaú National Park, Brazil

If you'd like to spend time in a forest, Brazil's got you covered. Parque Nacional do Jaú is one of South America’s largest forest reserves. Located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest this UNESCO World Heritage Site protects many species, including the Amazonian manatee, the giant otter, jaguar and the margay.

Location: Green Great Wall, Nigeria

Bringing you back to the heat, Google take us to Nigeria. The African Union-led initiative's goal is to restore the land affected by desertification across the width of Africa. To combat this, the group has planted trees and other vegetation in sustainable ways. By doing this, communities in the area have seen an increased economic opportunities, food security and climate resilience since 2007.

Location: Pilbara Islands Nature Reserves, Australia

To end the journey around the world, Google's last stop is one of the Pilbara Island Nature Reserves in Australia. These reserves help protect fragile ecosystems, increasingly rare natural habitats and threatened or endangered species. Some of the species include marine turtles, shorebirds and seabirds.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X @forbesfineest.