best tourist places in malaysia

Things to Do in Malaysia

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Visiting Kuala Lumpur

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Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

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Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

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Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

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15 of the best things to do in Malaysia

Jan 22, 2024 • 11 min read

Experience the best of Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

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

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

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

1. Sip tea at the source in the Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

2. Climb up into the magical Batu Caves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Snorkel or dive in the pristine Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

5. Scale the sublime summit of Mt Kinabalu

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

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

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

6. Ride a trishaw around historic Melaka

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

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

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

7. Take a hike through Taman Negara

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

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

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

8. Witness a flight of bats at eerie Mulu Caves

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Join a cooking class in Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

11. Dive with turtles at Sipadan Island

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

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

12. Look for bearded pigs in Bako National Park

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

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

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

13. Meet magnificent apes in Sepilok, Borneo 

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

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

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

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

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

15. Marvel at a spectacular mosque in Kuala Kangsar

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

This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024

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14 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021

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

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

1. Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Most Beautiful Places In Malaysia That Should Be A Part Of Your Itinerary

From tropical rainforests to pristine islands, and cultural cities to historic towns, here are the most beautiful places in malaysia..

By: Lakshmi Sharath Published: Mar 23, 2024 02:00 PM UTC

The land of pristine islands, tropical rainforests and azure beaches — Malaysia is a dream destination for travellers Be it exploring UNESCO Heritage Sites, getting lost in ancient 130 million-year-old forests, scuba diving in the ocean, scaling mountain peaks, saying hello to orangutans and rhinoceros hornbills, it has something in it for everyone. Travel to the Southeast Asian country and get inspired by our recommendations on the ten most beautiful places in Malaysia which should be on your itinerary.

Best time to visit scenic and beautiful places in Malaysia 

Malaysia has tropical weather and is hot and humid almost throughout the year but the climate changes regionally as well. So when it’s raining heavily in the capital of Kuala Lumpur in April it’s the best time to be in Sabah and Sarawak. The dry season between November and February beckons most tourists, especially to the tropical islands, beaches and places along the West Coast of Malaysia. If you are planning to travel to the East Coast then June to October is a good time, while Borneo is best visited from March to October.

Most beautiful and scenic tourist places in Malaysia 

Langkawi .

Referred to as the Jewel of Kedah, this archipelago of 99 tropical islands in the Andaman Sea, separated from the mainland by the Strait of Malacca ranks very high among the most beautiful places in Malaysia. Scenic azure beaches with sparkling white sands beckon you with water sports, cruises and scuba diving tours, while the shores are teeming with bustling restaurants, cafes and bars. While Pantai Cenang is the tourist’s favourite beach, you should also head to the nearby Pantai Tengah or the shores of Tanjung Rhu and the Black Sand Beach. Ride the Langkawi Sky Cab that towers over the mountains and gaze upon the dense canopy of woodlands. You can also take a glass-bottomed gondola over the treetops. Walk on the 125-metre Sky Bridge, one of the longest curve suspension bridges and lose yourself in the panoramic views. Hike to the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls, snorkel at Pulau Payar Marine Park and explore the caves of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park on a boat, looking out for endemic birds and wildlife.

Best time to explore : November to March

Best places to stay: The Danna and Four Seasons Resort

How to reach: Langkawi International Airport is approximately 14 km away from the city centre.

Book your stay at The Danna Langkawi via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Danna Langkawi via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi via Booking.com

Book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi via Agoda.com

Also Read – In Pictures: The Most Breathtaking Beaches And Islands In Malaysia

Taman Nagara National Park

You are entering the verdant portals of a 130 million-year-old national park in Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia. This deciduous rainforest with towering trees around the River Tembeling is teeming with endemic wildlife and birds including the Malayan Tiger. The Canopy Walkway is the main experience here, rising 45 metres from the forest floor and is about 550 metres long. This hike can be further extended into a Bukit Teresek Hike with a guide and treats you to priceless views of the ancient forests and the meandering brown river below. Don’t miss the Jungle Night Walk, where you can feel the forests come to life with nocturnal creatures. Go on a boat cruise on the Tahan River or swim around Lubok Simpson, on the Tembeling River.

The main entry point to the national park is the village of Kuala Tahan from where canopy walks, treks and hikes begin as well.

Best time to explore: February to May

Best places to stay: Mutiara Taman Negara and Balai Serama Guest House

How to reach: The closest airport is the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport at Kuantan which is however over 200 km away.

Book your stay at Mutiara Taman Negara via Booking.com

Book your stay at Mutiara Taman Negara via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Balai Serama Guesthouse via Booking.com

Book your stay at Balai Serama Guesthouse via Agoda.com

Melaka City 

Malaysia’s cultural city oozes with charm and colour as vibrant trishaws take you around the atmospheric streets filled with ruins of old fortresses and mansions, mosques and churches set against the picturesque backdrop of the Straits of Malacca. At the heart of the UNESCO Heritage Site is the Red or Dutch Square with colonial-era monuments painted in shades of crimson, dominated by the Stadthuys, the former Governor’s residence. Dont miss the A Famosa, the Old Fortress, St Paul’s Church, Christ Church, Masjid Selat Melaka, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple and fascinating museums like the Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum, Maritime Museum and Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum. Visit the art galleries, auction houses, townhouses and sprawling mansions.

As Melaka presents you with a kaleidoscope of architectural styles, from Peranakan to European. At night, the vibrant Jonker Street comes alive with cafes, street food and music and there are several walking tours & bars around the night market in Malacca.

Best time to explore: April- May, October-November

Best places to stay: Hatten Hotel Melaka and DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka

How to reach: The closest airport is Kuala Lumpur Airport which is 87 km away

Book your stay Hatten Hotel Melaka via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hatten Hotel Melaka via Agoda.com

Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka via Booking.com

Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Melaka via Agoda.com

Also Read – Discover The Hidden Gems Of Melaka In Malaysia

George Town

You feel like you have just walked into a vivid postcard the moment you enter the portals of the capital city of Penang Island. Soak in the vibrant street art, lose yourself in the culinary flavours and the eclectic cultural influences and you have a heady cocktail of tradition and heritage, art and architecture in this UNESCO Heritage Site. A virtual open-air museum and an explosion of colour, George Town is an assault on your senses and one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia.

Take a tour of the atmospheric mansions and clan houses like the Blue Mansion which is the most photographed building with 38 rooms and 220 windows, the ostentatious Khoo Kongsi with its ceramic mosaics of mythical dragons and celestial guardians and the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Don’t miss the grand Kek Lok Si Temple, with its seven-tier pagoda, surrounded by several bronze statues.

Best time to explore: November – January

Best places to stay: The Edison and Seven Terraces

How to reach: The closest airport is the Penang Airport which is 15 km away.

Book your stay at The Edison via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Seven Terraces via Booking.com

Book your stay at Seven Terraces via Agoda.com

Danum Valley 

The crown jewel of Malaysian Borneo, the Danum Valley Conservation Area is a 130 million-year-old rainforest with trees soaring over 100 metres. Located near Lahad Datu in Sabah, the 430 sq km of forests is home to some of the most endemic and endangered wildlife like the Sumatran rhino, banteng orangutans, pygmy elephants, cloud leopard and proboscis monkeys. The rich biodiversity and complex ecosystem are a treat for wildlife enthusiasts as you are in one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in Malaysia Trek through the tropical wonderland, do birdwatching, head out on jungle walks, experience night safaris, swim in a forest stream, and just soak in the vibes of the raw wilderness. Combine your trip to Danum Valley with a cruise in Kinabatangan River which is 78 km away while Maliau Basin is 70 km away.

Best places to stay: Borneo Rainforest Lodge and Kawag Nature Lodge

How to reach: The closest airport is at Lahad Datu which is about 80 km

Perhentian Islands 

Raw, rugged and romantic, you are in one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia. The archipelago of the Perhentian Islands is located in the South China Sea off the coast of Terengganu, where five of the seven ethereal islands are completely uninhabited. Besar is larger than Kecil, but these sublime islands connected by water taxis are a beach lover’s fantasy with shimmering white sands and crystal clear turquoise waters. Besides the Main Beach, head to Love Beach, Coral Bay, Petani Beach, and Teluk Kerma near Long Beach. Fishing is prohibited and they are now part of the Pulau Redang National Marine Park. This slice of paradise in South East Asia located between Thailand and Malaysia is thronged by scuba divers but the laid-back. secluded vibe and upscale resorts have brought in honeymooners and luxury travellers. Rich in marine life, it’s a riot of colours below the ocean too with protected coral reefs, surrounded by swarms of fish and if you are lucky, you can see sharks and sea turtles as well. Go scuba diving, snorkel, swim, canoe and cruise away in the pristine ocean. There are hikes in the dense wilderness and rainforests where you can spot leaf monkeys.

Best time to explore: March to October

Best places to stay: Alunan Resort, BuBu Long Beach Resort

How to reach: The closest airport is the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport at Kota Bharu which is 57 km away

Book your stay at Alunan Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Alunan Resort via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Bubu Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at BuBu Resort via Agoda.com

Also Read – 5 Private Islands Around Malaysia For Your Next Beach Getaway

Cameron Highlands 

Lose yourself in the emerald green carpet of rolling hills filled with lush tea plantations, strawberry farms, and butterfly and bee gardens, located in Pahang and accessed easily from Perak. This tourist hotspot discovered by the British is also a hiking destination surrounded by forests and lakes. Trek around the trails in Mossy Forest and look out for the cascades at Lata Iskandar or stop by at Cactus Valley to admire the ornamental garden.

Some of the tea estates you should visit include the atmospheric Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate with a lovely Bog Cafe nestled in a greenhouse, Boh Tea Garden and Cameron Valley Tea House. Pluck strawberries at Raaju’s Hill Strawberry Farm, visit the Cameron Butterfly Farm and feel the buzz at Tringkap Bee Farm. You can’t miss the Golden Buddhas at Sam Pho Temple and the Tamilian shrine called Thendayuthapani Temple in this green landscape.

Best time to explore: June to August

Best places to stay: Cameron Highlands Resort, The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands.

How to reach: The closest airport is the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh which is 33 km away.

Book your stay at Cameron Highlands Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Cameron Highlands Resort via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Lakehouse via Agoda.com

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Pulau tioman.

Located off the coast of Johor and in Pahang, is the Pulau Tioman, an enchanting island, untouched by mass tourism which beckons scuba divers and trekkers to its shores. Take a bike and chase waterfalls, hike into the wild woodlands, dive around shipwrecks and coral reefs, laze on white sandy beaches, and snorkel away in crystal-clear waters. Renggis Island, Tulai Island, Tiger Reef, Golden Reef, and Coral Island are some of the diving hotspots. Head to Juara to see the Turtle Sanctuary at Mentawak Beach, hike from Monkey Beach to Monkey Bay, snorkel at ABC Jetty or Salang Beach, and watch the waters at Nipah Beach glow at night with the presence of phosphorescent seaweed. Beach parties are quite popular and don’t be surprised if you spot a monitor lizard walking around in the shore, especially at Kampung Salang.

Best time to explore: June to September

Best places to stay: Tunamaya Beach and Spa Resort, Berjaya Tioman Resort

How to reach: The nearest airport to Tioman Island is Senai Airport which is 140.5 km away.

Book your stay at Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort Tioman Island via Booking.com

Book your stay at Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort Tioman Island via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Berjaya Tioman Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Berjaya Tioman Resort via Agoda.com

Pangkor Island 

You cannot resist the tropical allure of this small archipelago, nestled in the Malacca Strait in Perak, which was once the refuge of pirates. Explore the ruins of an 18th-century Dutch Fort, the Buddhist Foo Lin Kong Temple and the Indian Kali Amman Temple. Head to, Nipah Beach or hike around Pangkor Hill.

Go island hopping, snorkel and dive around the coral reefs, indulge in water sports, go kayaking and feed the hornbills at Sunset View during sunset. Other beautiful beaches include Coral Beach, and Moon Beach while you can lose yourself in the fishing hamlets around Pasir Bogak Beach, and Pantai Teluk Belanga among other places.

Best time to explore: January-February, August-September

Best places to stay: Pangkor Laut Resort and Alun Retreat

How to reach: The closest airport is at Ipoh which is around 70 km away

Book your stay at Pangkor Laut Resort via Booking.com

Book your stay at Pangkor Laut Resort via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Alun Retreat via Agoda.com

Kota Kinabalu – Islands and national park 

Located on the northwest coast of Sabah, the capital town is more than just a transit town to explore the dense forests and coral reefs of Malaysian Borneo. Head to the Tunku Abdul Marine Park, an archipelago of five islands for a day to snorkel and to trek around the forests. If you are feeling adventurous, you can scale Mt Kinabalu towering at 13400 feet and explore Kinabalu National Park. Soak in the sunset hues at Tanjung Aru Beach, go to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre and head to Likas Bay to see the iconic City Mosque. If you are looking for some cultural sights, then head to Mari Mari Cultural Village, Sabah Museum and Sabah Art Gallery and savour the vibes of the Central Market and Night Market.

Also Read – Indulge In These 5 Best Seafood Restaurants In Kota Kinabalu

Best time to explore: December to April

Best places to stay: Shangri-La Tanjung Aru and Hyatt Regency, Kinabalu

How to reach: The closest airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport which is 6 km away

Book your stay at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru via Booking.com

Book your stay at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru via Agoda.com

Also Read – 9 Magnificent Islands Off The Coast Of Kota Kinabalu To Soak Up The Sun

Book your stay at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu via Agoda.com

shop the best travel experiences here

(Feature Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock)

Related:  Misty Peaks And Vibrant Greenery: Explore Malaysia’s Majestic Hill Stations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What are some of the natural attractions in Malaysia? Taman Negara National Park, Gunung Mulu National Park, Danum Valley, Kalimantan River, Mt Kinabalu, Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, and Cameron Highlands are some of the natural attractions in Malaysia.

– Are there any picturesque islands or beaches visiting in Malaysia? Some of the picturesque islands in Malaysia are Langkawi Island, Sipandan Island, Redang Island, Perhentian Islands, Pangkor Island, and Tioman Island among others. Some of the best beaches are Pantai Cenang in Langkawi, Juara in Tioman, Nipah Bay and Coral Bay.in Pangkor Island.

– What are the most scenic drives or routes in Malaysia? Some of the best scenic routes in Malaysia are The Great West Coast Crawl from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, and Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu. Kuala Lumpur to Taiping via Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands among others.

– What are some iconic landmarks and cultural sites in Malaysia? Petroras Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Langkawi Sky Bridge, Malacca Sultanate Palace, A Famosa, Fort Cornwallis, and Putra Mosque are some of the iconic landmarks and cultural sites in Malaysia.

-Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known beautiful places in Malaysia? Tasik Kenyir in Terranganu, Mossy Forest, Cameron Highlands, Lau Secret Beach in Redang Island, Semporna Islands in Sabah, Royal Berum State Park in Perak, Pulau Jerejak in Penang are some of the hidden gems or lesser-known beautiful places in Malaysia.

-What are the best locations for experiencing Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage? Malacca City, George Town in Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Ipok in Perak, Lenggong in Perak, Sabah, and Johor Bahru are some of the best locations for experiencing Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.

– Are there any picturesque highlands or mountain retreats in Malaysia worth visiting? Cameron Highlands, Genting Highlands, Fraser’s Hill, Maxwell Hill, and Bukit Tinggi near Genting are some of the picturesque highlands or mountain retreats in Malaysia worth visiting.

– Are there any activities besides sightseeing in these beautiful locations? You can do water sports, snorkel, go scuba diving, hiking in the rainforests, birdwatching and other activities besides sightseeing in these beautiful locations.

– How can I best explore these beautiful places in Malaysia? You can travel by air or by road to these beautiful places in Malaysia. Most of the places are well connected by air and there are buses everywhere. You can also book guided tours and explore these beautiful places in Malaysia.

• beautiful places
• south east asia

Lakshmi Sharath

Lakshmi is passionate about everything that is local — from cultural traditions to art and architecture and believes that people make places. A slow and mindful traveller from India, you will often find her listening to stories of people or just sitting in a cafe and watching life pass by. Travelling is a way of life for this former media professional .. Read More who quit her desk and decade long corporate career to become a storyteller. Read Less

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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 20 Best Things To Do In Malaysia [Malaysia Bucket List]

Planning your next trip and want to know the top things to do in Malaysia?

With a landmass of over 30,000 square kilometres, Malaysia has a lot to offer tourists. From the high rises of Kuala Lumpur to the beaches on its coasts and islands to its UNESCO World Heritage sites to its hill stations and diversity of cultures, there really is something for everyone in Malaysia.

The mixture of its Malay, Chinese and Indian people combined with a colonial past leads to an interesting and mixed history which is evident in its architecture, food and cultures. From the peninsular Malaysia to the mysterious Borneo to a zillion little islands, there are many great tourist sites in Malaysia waiting for you.

You may already have some ideas about the top activities in Malaysia, like visiting the Petronas Twin Towers or lounging on a beach in Langkawi, and perhaps you want some more ideas or off the beaten track suggestions for what to visit in Malaysia.

Or maybe you are working out whether Malaysia is somewhere you would enjoy and you want to know some of the fun things to do in Malaysia to see if it’s for you.

Whatever the case, you are sure to have 20 new items to add to your Malaysian bucket list by the time you finish reading this list of Malaysia top things to do that I compiled with other travel bloggers.

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.

Top 20 Best Things To Do In Malaysia

Enjoy petronas towers views from traders hotel.

With any visit to Kuala Lumpur it is hard not to be drawn, like moths to light, to the rather magnificent Petronas Twin Towers which can be seen from pretty much all over the city. But to make the most of a visit, I will forever recommend a stay at the Traders Hotel which shares probably the best views of the Petronas Twin Towers and Malaysia’s crown jewel in Southeast Asia. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in Malaysia for a reason.

The towers are framed perfectly, up close and intimate, with front row seats to the symphony of lights as the sunsets over the city. So I while l will always recommend at least 1 night at the hotel (Traders Twin Tower View Room: RM500), there is always the more affordable option of the Traders Hotel’s rooftop Skybar, with some serious cocktails and intoxicating views of the twin towers.

To get there, a quick shuttle service connects both the hotel and the Suria KLCC mall at the base of the towers, although the surrounding KLCC Park and fountains also make for a serene beeline between the two.

Contributed by Allan from Live Less Ordinary

Click here to read our full guide to Kuala Lumpur or here to read my review of the Traders Hotel KL.

Get Up Close To Elephants At The Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre

The Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre is by far my favourite of the unique things to do in Malaysia especially as it’s just a day trip from Kuala Lumpur. This is because this government-run sanctuary is here to help raise awareness and understanding of the importance of these beautiful animals. With elephants in Malaysia at the brink of extinction, this centre is there to educate the public and care for the animals on site.

The centre itself is free. However, I encourage you to hire one of the many volunteered guides for RM50 or make a donation at the registration office as all money goes to the care of the elephants.

Arrive early as they only allow the first 100 people to bath the elephants, this too is an extra cost of RM10 (adults) and RM5 (children). Prepare to get wet, so bring an extra pair of clothes. There are other free options around the centre and these include educational videos, elephant crossings, feeding the elephants and enjoying the observation areas.

The easiest (and most affordable) way to get to Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre is by hiring a car from Kuala Lumpur and driving the 105 kilometers yourself. If this is not an option then many tours offer this service which you can book by clicking here now.

Contributed by Paula

Read all our Kuala Lumpur guides here.

Splash Around At The Beaches Of Port Dickson

If you are travelling around South East Asia you will probably end up in Kuala Lumpur at least once. It’s the main aviation hub in this part of Asia. While there are many awesome things to do in KL, spending time in the big city may not be for everyone. If you want to find a green oasis close to Malaysia’s capital city, head to Port Dickson.

This small town, located about one hours drive from KL, may not have the most beautiful beaches in the country. Still, it has the closest beaches to Kuala Lumpur since KL doesn’t have direct access to the sea.

Pantai Cahaya Negeri and Blue Lagoon are arguably the best beaches in Port Dickson . If sunbathing isn’t really your thing, you can always try some water sports. There are some great accommodation options in Port Dickson as well with affordable luxury in over-water pool villas.

The easiest way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson is to rent a car or take a taxi. You can also travel by public transport. There is no direct train or bus from KL to Port Dickson. You have to go to Seremban first and then take a bus to Port Dickson. Read more details of how to do this here. You can also easily take a taxi directly from KL Airport.

Contributed by Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog

Find all our Port Dickson guides here.

Enjoy A Melaka Boat Tour

If checking out the history of Melaka (also spelt Malacca) is on your list of best things to see in Malaysia, a Melaka boat tour will give you a great first glance into Malaysia’s colonial past.

The 45 minute return trip takes in the views of old shop houses, modern street art, colourful bridges and glimpses of traditional Malaysian life and architecture. The cool breeze along the river is a welcome relief from the heat and humidity in the city. Night tours are a great way to see Melaka lit up in the colours of the rainbow.

There are 3 jetties where you can start your cruise, the most central one being Muara Jetty which is situated next to the Quayside Heritage Centre, close to the Maritime Museum. Tourist maps are available at the tourist information booth opposite Red Square.

You can aboard your cruise at the Taman Rempah Jetty next to the Hang Jebat Bridge or alternatively combine a retail experience with your boat tour and commence your trip at The Shore Jetty, next to The Shore Malacca.

Grab one of Melaka’s favourite drinks, an icy cold mango smoothie and sit back and soak up the sites of the UNESCO world heritage city.

Melaka River Cruises are open daily from 9 am to 11:30 pm. Boat tours depart every 30 minutes and a return trip will cost you RM30 for adults and RM25 for children. An inexpensive way to familiarise yourself with the wonder that is Melaka.

Click here to buy a discounted tour from Kuala Lumpur.

Contributed by Julie from A Not So Young Woman Abroad

Click here to find our full guide to Melaka.

Get Back To Nature At Taman Negara National Park

It is hard to believe that what is said to be the oldest rainforest in the world is just a 3-hour drive from the bustling Kuala Lumpur. This national park is a great choice of the things to visit in Malaysia to get to know the flora and fauna of Malaysia and get a feel of the rainforest.

You can opt to stay in Mutiara Taman Negara Resort inside the national park or in one of the many small guesthouses in the nearby villages. The resort is large and comfortable, if a little old, and you have the benefit of waking up in the jungle and heading out to hikes from your doorstep.

There is a variety of walks available, from easy ones on boardwalks to multi-day expeditions into the interior of the park, as well as boat trips on the river or visits to the villages of the Orang Asli, the aboriginal people of the area. Don’t expect to see big mammals – the forest is thick and the areas near the resort are fairly busy.

Bring mosquito repellent, sturdy footwear and swimming costume for a cooling dip in the river.

You will need to pay a RM1 park fee and a RM5 as a camera fee at the park office next to Mutiara Taman Negara resort.

Click here to buy discounted tour tickets now.

Contributed by Kirsi from Happy Go KL

Have The Most Fun Day Ever At Legoland Malaysia

Legoland Malaysia is a giant lego-themed theme park in two parts. There is the standard Legoland Theme Park but there is also a Legoland Water Park which is a great place to cool down in the hot Malaysia weather. The perfect age for visiting Legoland is about ages 3-12 years, our kids were a bit older so we got through it in one day. However if your kids are young, I recommend staying two days and utilising the onsite Legoland Malaysia Hotel.

Just opened in May 2019, there is a new attraction at the Legoland Malaysia site, SEA Life Malaysia. This interactive learning experience will teach the kids all about the ocean and how to care for it. The 180 degree ocean tunnel has black tip sharks swimming around and over your head, and the rock pools create a touch and feel environment that kids will love.

Not only is it convenient it is also a very affordable activity for all the family. There are many special deals available here that make Legoland Malaysia a great price especially if you buy combo tickets with entry to the different parks.

Legoland Malaysia is in Johor Bahru, just over the border from Singapore so you can visit this one of the things to do in Malaysia with family from either Singapore or Malaysia. It take about an hour to get there from Singapore depending how long it takes to cross the border. Alternatively, you can stay in Johor Bahru. Getting to Legoland Malaysia from Kuala Lumpur takes approximately 3 hours, making it very difficult to do in a day trip.

Click here to buy discounted tickets now.

Contributed by Sally from our3kidsvtheworld or you can read our full review here.

Help Sea Turtles On Tioman Island

My family and I volunteered with the Juara Turtle Project on Tioman Island, and it was an amazing experience! Volunteers from all over the world support the dedicated staff to monitor for new turtle nests, to keep eggs safe in their hatchery, maintain the Project’s headquarters, release hatchlings into the water,and help with community education and clean ups.

We were lucky to be able to see many baby turtles scurry to the water for the first time at this Malaysia travel spot, excavate a nest that had hatched, and help with transferring eggs to the Project’s hatchery. We also met many new friends, patrolled the beaches, learned much about turtles and corals, enjoyed amazing food, and swam in the most beautiful beach we had ever seen!

Volunteers are requested to spend a minimum of a week at the Project. The cost to volunteer is RM1000 for 7 nights over the turtle season, and discounts are given for longer stays, children and volunteering through the off-peak season. The cost includes fully cooked breakfast and lunch daily, use of the Project’s recreational equipment and facilities, and rustic shared accommodation.

You can also just visit Juara Turtle Project if you’re staying on Tioman, and staff or volunteers will give you a tour and explain all about their excellent work.

Tioman Island is off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, and still has pristine jungle surrounded by amazing coastlines and mangroves. Several coral reefs attract divers and snorkellers to Tioman, and a couple are in Juara Bay. It takes about two hours on a ferry from Mersing to get to Tioman, and Juara Bay is on the other side of the island to the jetty.

Contributed by Emma from Small footprints, big adventures

Click here to read our full guide to Tioman Island.

Snorkel At Gem Island

One of the Malaysia spots to visit for snorkelling is Gem Island (Pulau Gemia). It is a privately owned island in the South China Sea.

Gem island has a small 3-star resort and spa on site. Fortunately, Gem Island has a house reef so you can snorkel straight from the shore. There are several types of villas with an overwater villa at an affordable price.

The easiest way to get to Gem island is to fly into Kuala Terengganu. A road transfer to Marang Pier and finally a short boat ride, complete the journey across to the island.

Snorkelling hire was available. Other water sport options offered by the resort include kayaking and diving trips. Although not formally offered, a fishing trip with a traditional fisherman is also possible. It was an eye-opening experience in the middle of the South China Sea.

Like the rest of the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Gem island is closed from October to February. The house reef was great, but there was a significant rip. Wearing a life vest is highly recommended.

If you want a beautiful, secluded and affordable resort with some of the best snorkelling in Malaysia, Gem island is just the place.

Contributed by Alana from Family Bites Travel

Snorkel The Perhentians

The Perhentian Islands lie off the east coast of Malaysia and are one of the Malaysia best things to do. They’re a popular place to visit for diving and snorkelling trips where you can feed the fish, see sharks and often times swim with turtles. Reaching the Perhentians is easy, take a bus to Kuala Besut, then a fast boat to the islands ( more information here ).

There are two Perhentian Islands, both have accommodation, tours and places to eat. Perhentian Kecil is usually the most visited as it has cheaper accommodation.

You’ll need to pay the RM30 National Park fee (for foreigners, it’s RM5 for locals and RM2 children) as well as the fast boat fee to get here. There can also be a transfer fee from the fast boat to the shore depending on your end location, unless you want to swim your bags in.. You’ll want to stay several days and chill out, but the main things to do here is to see the sea life.

Snorkelling in the Perhentians is fabulous, especially if you visit in the low season. There are turtles and huge numbers of vividly coloured fish. Sadly, there is not much coral, although the evidence of people who’ve stood on it is very obvious. There are even black-tipped reef sharks here too, although they’re a little too fast to photograph!

The snorkelling tours in the Perhentians give a great variety of sea life, in calm, easy waters – and certainly when we travelled there were only a few others in the water, making it a superb experience.

Contributed by Sarah from A Social Nomad

Find all our guides to the Perhentian Islands here.

Visit The SkyBridge And SkyCab in Langkawi

If you’re in Langkawi, make sure you visit the SkyBridge and SkyCab – one of the most popular tourist attractions in Langkawi.

To reach the SkyBridge you must take the SkyCab which goes up the second highest mountain called Gunung Machinchang and so it has incredible views. Before reaching the very top, the SkyCab makes one stop before reaching the very top. The views from here are absolutely amazing and you can see over all the beautiful islands of Langkawi.

Once you have finished admiring the views, you should head for the Langkawi SkyBridge. The Langkawi SkyBridge is the longest free span and curved bridge in the world. It is 2,000 feet above ground and is 400 feet long and it hangs between two mountains above the jungle. There is a small section that has a glass walkway beneath your feet. The views from here are spectacular and given it is a suspended bridge, you will feel the slight movement from side to side.

The SkyBridge and SkyCab are easy to each, but unless you have a car, you will need to get a taxi there.

The area does become extremely busy with tourists so it’s recommended to come first thing when it’s a bit quieter.

Entry for the SkyCab is RM55 per person and the SkyBridge is RM5 per person.

Contributed by Melissa from Thrifty Family Travels

Read our full guides to Langkawi here.

Look For Street Art In Penang

Penang is a state on the north-west coast of the Malaysian peninsula. The old part of Penang Island, George Town, is listed as a Unesco Heritage site, but in recent years, Penang has become famous for its street art.

This springs from the work of Ernest Zacharevic for the 2012 George Town Festival. The Lithuanian artist expected his murals only to survive a few months, but they have become icons for the town – inspiring other street art too. Big wrought-iron caricatures illustrate the history of George Town, and now there is also more graffiti made by other artists too.

It’s fun, easy and free to walk around Penang graffiti-spotting, but when you get ambitious and want to find them all then you have to work a bit harder. Our search turned into a two-day project. On the first day, we just wandered about and spotted as many as we could. But now we were hooked.

So on the second day, we located all the works on Google map and completed our hunt on foot. To make the job easier, you can also rent a four-seater pedal car. This is a funny bicycle structure designed for two adults pedalling at the back and two kids in the front.

We found lots that we had missed on the first day; some were just around the corner from where we had been. It didn’t matter; the whole two-day hunt was super fun. We have great photos and many happy memories.

Contributed by Ania from The Travelling Twins

Read our full Penang Travel Guide here.

Go On A Habitat Walk On Penang Hill

The Habitat Walk on Penang Hill offers a brilliant escape from the vibrant mix of colours, flavours and cultures on offer in nearby George Town. Set amongst a 130 million year old rain forest, and giving spectacular views of the island, it’s a must do during any visit to Penang.

We spent a couple of hours wandering along the (pram-friendly) paths with our 7 and 8 year olds, taking in the amazing flora on display and taking plenty of photos. There are numerous places to stop along the way and simply sit and take in the scenery, and there is also a walkway which extends out above the forest canopy giving you literally a bird’s eye view.

Also, make sure you climb to the top of the 13 metre Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk – a viewing platform that gives you the very best uninterrupted views.

The easiest way to get to Penang Hill is with Grab, a taxi app. It’s about a 15 minute drive from the heart of Georgetown. Once there, you will need to buy tickets to the funicular train, witch cost RM30 for adults and RM15 for 4 – 12 year olds for non-priority seats. The train itself is a real experience, being the longest funicular track in Asia.

Once you are at the top of the hill, hunt out the Habitat ticket tent which is in the courtyard area just up from the food outlets. Tickets for adults are RM53 and RM31.80 for kids between 3-12 years. Once you have the tickets there is a shuttle service which drives you the kilometre or so to the entrance.

Click here to buy tickets now.

Contributed by Kylie from Visiting Dordogne

Read our full guides to Penang here.

Explore The Ipoh Cave Temples

Exploring Ipoh’s mystical cave temples is one of the major reasons for visiting the city of Ipoh in Perak State, Malaysia. Ipoh’s magnificent limestone karsts are dotted with several Chinese Buddhist cave temples just begging to be explored. These include Perak Tong, Sam Poh Tong and Kek Lok Tong.

Perak Tong is the most popular choice for its enormous cavern, stunning murals and panoramic views. Located just six kilometres north of central Ipoh, Perak Tong is just a short taxi ride away. Tucked into the side of a cliff face, the exterior of Perak Tong temple disguises the cavernous space within. Perak Tong Buddhist cave temple is home to stunning murals and Chinese calligraphy adorning the cavern rock face.

The cave has a mystical feel with bronze statues of Buddha sitting peacefully in niches, together with other deities from Chinese mythology. Climb a steep set of stairs on the outside of the hill to reach a small viewing platform for panoramic views of Ipoh town.

Perak Tong Cave Temple has no entrance fee, but a small donation is greatly appreciated.

Contributed by Marie from A Life Without Borders. Find all our Ipoh guides here.

Learn History With The Archaeological Heritage Of The Lenggong Valley

The Lenggong Valley is Malaysia’s lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site, and comprises a series of caves and archaeological sites scattered around the quiet village of Lenggong, about 50 kilometres north of Kuala Kangsar along interstate 76. The valley itself was cut into the surrounding hills by a meteorite that fell here a staggering 1.83 million years ago.

Regardless of the poor publicity by local tourism boards, the sites around the Lenggong Valley are one of the Malaysia top sights given their incredible archaeological importance, as they represent the oldest evidence of human civilization outside the African continent.

The Lenggong Valley is particularly famous for the remains of the Perak Man, Southeast Asia’s oldest, most complete human skeleton, which dates back to 7,000 years ago. Scientists believe that this early man, affected by a physical deformity, was indeed revered as an ancient shaman. His skeleton was found inside the Gua Gunung Runtuh, surrounded by hundreds of shells and tools, and curled into a fetal position. Today, the Perak Man lies under glass inside the Lenggong Valley Archaeological Museum in Kota Tampan, about 5 kilometres south of Lenggong town.

It’s a perfect place to learn about the history of the area, and entrance is free of charge. You have to contact the director of this museum if you want to take a tour of Lenggong’s interesting cave complex, which has been fenced off to avoid further vandalism.

The tours are free of charge (a donation to the museum is appreciated) and must be booked in advanced from 9am to 5pm on weekdays.

Contributed by Marco from Penang Insider

Take A Boat Ride From Kuala Sepetang

We think that a boat ride from Kuala Sepetang is one of the best things to see and do in Malaysia. The town of Kuala Sepetang lies on the west coast about half an hour from Taiping and is fringed by mangrove forests and islands that dot the estuary out to sea.

It is a bit of a mystery why the town is not better known to tourists as it has a great mix of natural attractions and characterful old wooden buildings that overhang the water.

It is only really from the water that you can get the best out of Kuala Sepetang so our advice is to hire a boat for an hour or two and visit some of the attractions.

The standard tour will take you down the main ‘street’ of the town that is flanked on either side by old weather-beaten fishermen’s homes, to the mangrove forest, to a fish farm and they will feed the sea eagles so that they swoop down all around your boat.

The fish farm was a particular highlight for our young children who got the chance to hold puffer fish and giant horseshoe crabs.

If you have more time you can take longer boat trips that include all of the above and also visit some other villages.

For our boat trip, we found a boatman near to the jetty in town and paid RM30 per adult and RM20 for a child (babies are free). These prices seem to be fairly negotiable.

Contributed by Chris from More Life In Your Days

Go Diving At Sipadan Island

For those who love to dive, Sipadan island is one of the top adventurous things to do in Malaysia. This small island, formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct undersea volcano, is one of the richest marine habitats in the world.

Over 3000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in the waters surrounding Sipadan. It’s not abnormal for a diver to see more than 20 turtles on a single dive! There are twelve dive sites around the island, each with its own distinctive views of coral and aquatic life. During interval stops, divers get the chance to relax and recharge on the beautiful beaches.

Sipadan island is located in the state of Sabah, in the northern part of Borneo. It is not possible to stay on the island overnight. You can either stay in the town of Semporna, or on the nearby islands of Mabul and Kapalai. The closest airport to Sipadan is Tawau, about an hour drive from Semporna.

Prices vary depending on how many dives you do and with what shop. In 2018, I paid RM950 for a 3-tank, all-day dive tour from Semporna. If you plan to go diving at Sipadan Island be sure to book in advance. Dive permits are limited to 120 a day and space can fill up quickly.

Contributed by Lora from Explore with Lora

See Orangutans At The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Ever wanted to see an orangutan up close in the wild? Here’s your chance!

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a must visit tourist destination in Malaysia. This famous rehabilitation centre in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve covers 43 square kilometres and is set up to care for and rehabilitate orphaned and injured orangutans (as well as other animals) before returning them to live independently in the forest.

Visiting this one of the Malaysia things to see is an easy way to both see orangutans and help support this conservation effort. There are two feeding times a day on platforms where you can see the orangutans up close. These take place at 10am and 3pm. Since these are wild animals, there are no guarantees, although there are usually at least a few that show up. We saw many when we visited.

It’s estimated a couple of hundred orangutans currently live here although since this is a huge area, you definitely will not see all of them.

You can also visit an outdoor nursey where you can see younger orangutans. I recommend you turn up at least an hour before the feeding times so you can see a presentation and video about the centre and orangutans. This starts an hour before each feeding time.

Located in the state of Borneo in Sabah, this is a slightly more difficult to reach best tourist spot in Malaysia. However, it is located just a short distance from Sandakan Airport so you can fly in here and catch a taxi directly to the centre. There are also regular buses from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.

It costs RM30 for foreigners and an additional RM10 to take a camera.

Contributed by Julia from Dive Into Philippines

Visit The City Mosque In Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful city to visit in Sabah, and one of the most iconic places to see is the City Mosque. Everyone is welcome at the mosque, regardless of their religious affiliation. After being given appropriate clothing and a short tour, you can wander around the mosque and take as many photos as you wish.

It is a much larger complex than it looks, and we enjoyed the washing rooms, main prayer rooms, and relaxing rooms. The guides were so open and welcoming. When we went we asked many questions while we ooh’d and ah’d over the intricate geometrical designs that cover the walls, floor, and ceiling.

From the city center, it is easy to take a bus or taxi to the mosque if you don’t have a rental car, and it’s free to enter. You may have to pay a small fee to rent clothing, but it’s nominal, only enough to take care of the cleaning fee. If you are an early bird, the absolute best time to go is at sunrise for some great shots, but even if you go later, the mosque is beautiful.

The minarets and dome are reflected in the man-made pond outside. There is a gift shop and some food stalls on the premises. Don’t miss out on this cultural gem, and while in Borneo visit the City Mosque.

Contributed by Corinne from Reflections Enroute

Take A River Tour In Kuching

Kuching is the capital of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo. One of our very favourite things to do in Kuching is to take a river tour. Cruising along the river lets you get a glimpse of local life and lets you see an amazing array of wild animals.

The adventure starts in the afternoon where you board the boat as we did with 3 other families. We were lucky enough to see wild proboscus monkeys, crocodiles and fireflies! After a dinner snack on the boat of fruit and rice, we headed to the local Muslim stilt village that is isolated from the rest of the mainland relying on generator electricity.

We were met with the most beautiful smiles and all the kids on our boat loved playing with the local kids and watching their everyday life. We got to see how their houses were built up on the water and how they fished for food and chatted with the kids about attending the village school. It was a great cultural and engaging adventure for everyone.

We booked our boat trip through Brendan at Basaga Residences a small school turned guesthouse in Kuching. It included transport to and from our accommodation plus the boat trip and dinner.

Adults were RM150 and kids were half price at RM75.

Contributed by Bron from Smiths Holiday Road

Try The Local Coffee At A Traditional Kopitiam

Trying the local food and drink is an essential experience in any foreign country, and no less so when visiting Malaysia.

Malaysia is renowned for its Kopitiams, also known as coffeehouses. Noisy, hot and frenetic, you won’t find fancy décor and food here. People visit the Kopitiam for one thing – kopi.

So what makes kopi unique? Unlike most coffee roasters in the west who prefer arabica beans, kopi is made with robusta beans that have been roasted in butter and sugar. In the Kopitiam the beans are ground and filtered through a coffee sock to produce an intensely dark coffee drink.

Traditionally served with condensed and/or evaporated milk, Kopi is a sweet, rich coffee style. Order whatever snacks the locals are eating and enjoy.

The increasing popularity of contemporary coffee chains in Malaysia has meant a slow decline in the number of traditional coffeehouses across the country, especially in Kuala Lumpur. But if you are looking for a genuine Malaysian food experience, a visit to the local Kopitiam should be on your list of things to do in Malaysia.

Contributed by Rachel from Creators of Coffee

Looking for more things to do in Borneo? Read our list here.

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

Have you been to Malaysia? What are your suggestions for the top 10 things to do in Malaysia?

Click here for a list of the best resorts in Malaysia or here for more planning resources. You can also find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia 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!

Related posts:

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.

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updated 14.03.2023

Malaysia boasts a rich heritage — from a huge variety of festivals and wonderful cuisine, to traditional architecture and rural crafts. There’s astonishing natural beauty to take in too, including gorgeous beaches and some of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Here are some of the best things to do in Malaysia, to give you a taste of why you should visit this destination.

1. The Perhentian Islands

2. traditional crafts, 3. taman negara national park, 4. sungai kinabatangan, 5. shopping in kuala lumpur, 6. george town, 7. proboscis monkeys, bako, 8. rainforest music festival, 10. cameron highlands, 11. climbing mount kinabalu - one of the most challenging things to do in malaysia, 12. gunung mulu national park, 13. kelabit highlands, 14. langkawi, 15. the petronas towers, 16. malaysian cuisine, 17. scuba diving at pulau sipadan, 18. longhouses in sarawak, 19. batu caves, 20. tunku abdul rahman marine park, 21. island hopping, 22. langkawi cable car.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei , your essential guide for visiting Malaysia .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Malaysia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2350 USD

Uniquely Rustic Malaysia

Malaysia has it all: great beaches, fascinating history, natural habitats and remarkable wildlife. Bustling KL offers the perfect city break; while further afield hiking trails, pristine jungles and fascinating ecosystems will keep the more adventurous visitors entertained.

7 days  / from 1200 USD

Hidden UNESCO Sites of Malaysia

Steeped in historical significance and natural beauty, Malaysia is home to several emotionally moving UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It seems fitting, given the country's cultural touchstones and awe-inspiring parks—from solitude amidst the mangroves to history walks among colonial buildings.

3 days  / from 450 USD

The Cameron Highlands in a Nutshell

Experience Malaysia's largest and most impressive hill station, the Cameron Highlands, in all their glory, with this compact trip. Let your picturesque surroundings soak in as you visit the famous Batu Caves, the Lata Iskandar Waterfalls and a local tea plantation.

Tailor-made trips for   Malaysia

A popular pair of islands off the east coast, with beautiful beaches, great snorkelling and accommodation for all budgets. The name Perhentian Islands (Pulau Perhentian) actually covers two islands: Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. Both are textbook tropical paradises, which retain considerable appeal despite having been developed for tourism.

The essentials of any idyllic island holiday – fantastic sandy beaches, great snorkelling and diving – are all in place. Both islands have jungle-covered hills in their interior with paths for walking. Here you'll find opportunities to spot flying foxes, monkeys and monitor lizards. All this is capped by a refreshingly laidback atmosphere that can make it difficult to tear yourself away.

Combine the culture and traditions on this tailor-made trip to Traditional Malaysia & Wild Borneo . From lively Kuala Lumpur to desert island beaches, highlands and dense rainforest, this is a wonderful introduction to Southeast Asia.

Visiting Perhentian Islands - one of the best things to do in Malaysia for an island holiday © Ruzaini/Shutterstock

Malaysia boasts a wide range of crafts, from batik and songket (brocade) to rattan baskets and labu, gourd-shaped ceramic jugs. Batik cloth is made by applying hot wax to a piece of cloth with either a pen or a copper stamp. When the cloth is dyed, the wax resists the dye and a pattern appears, a process that can be repeated many times to build up colours.

Woodcarving skills, once employed to decorate the palaces and public buildings of the early sultans, are today used to make less exotic articles such as mirror frames. However, it’s still possible to see statues and masks created by the Orang Asli. As animists, Orang Asli artists draw upon the natural world – animals, trees, fish, as well as more abstract elements like fire and water – for their imagery.

Batik painting, Malaysia © Prarinya/Shutterstock

Malaysia’s premier national park, Taman Negara, is one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Here you'll find great hides for wildlife spotting, treetop walkways and treks lasting from an hour to a whole week. The main gateway to Taman Negara, the town of Kuala Tahan, is where you’ll find the national park headquarters and the pick of its visitor facilities.

It’s also the place to get your bearings and seek out advice before crossing the Tembeling River and heading into the forest. The well-marked trails include an easy boardwalk stroll to a popular canopy walkway. Daily and weekly treks for experienced hikers are also available here.

Find accommodation options to stay in Taman Negara

Canopy bridge, Taman Negara, Malaysia © wong yu liang/Shutterstock

Cruise through the pristine jungle along this spectacular river, spotting proboscis monkeys and, occasionally, orangutans. Sabah’s longest waterway, the 560km Kinabatangan River, ends its journey to the Sulu Sea southeast of Sandakan Bay.

Whereas logging has had an impact on the river’s ecology upstream, the area covered by the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary offers some of the state’s best opportunities for seeing wildlife.

Day trips from Sandakan and Sepilok are possible with some tour operators but tend to offer just one river trip bookended by meals. It’s far better to book at least a one-night package to get an evening and a morning crack at the river or a trek.

Experience West Malaysia, with this exciting, compact tailor-made trip to the Highlands and Islands of West Malaysia makes for the perfect add-on to an existing trip to Malaysia.

Monkeys jumping through the jungle, Malaysia © MicheleB/Shutterstock

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For tourists and locals alike, strolling the Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur – the broad corridor on either side of Jalan Bukit Bintang – is one of the best things to do in Malaysia. It is absolutely teeming with people throughout the day. There’s a mall here to suit everyone: the gigantic, massively modern Psavilion KL , is packed with international chains and designer outlets.

The southwestern end of Jalan Bukit Bintang is lined with royal palms and inexpensive clothing shops. The pavement around Lot 10 has evolved into a parade of buzzing, smart cafés and shops.

When planning a trip to the Malaysian capital, also check out our guide to the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur .

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur:

• For amazing views: Flixses Suites at Platinum KLCC
• For shopping: citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang

Find more accommodation options to stay in Kuala Lumpur

Shopping mall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia © Elena Ermakova/Shutterstock

Visiting George Town in 1879, stalwart Victorian traveller Isabella Bird called it “a brilliant place under a brilliant sky”. George Town's centre is located on the island’s northeastern corner. This lovely area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is worth a visit.

Here you'll find a surprisingly harmonious maze of lanes lined with shophouses in various states of repair. The area is liberally sprinkled with religious buildings, impressive clan associations or kongsi. The obvious comparison is with Singapore, but it’s as if the same ingredients have created an altogether mellower dish, without the slickness, crowds and incessant din of its former Straits Settlements partner.

If time is short, make a point of seeing the Khoo Kongsi and Cheong Fatt Tze mansion; otherwise simply enjoy the relaxed pace and stroll at will.

Where to stay in George Town:

• For ocean views: Maritime Suites by Comfy
• For historical atmosphere: Cheong Fatt Tze

Find more accommodation options to stay in George Town

Chinese temple in George Town, Malaysia © Merkurev Kirill/Shutterstock

East of the Santubong Peninsula, a second peninsula is occupied by the fabulous Bako National Park. It's named for its location at the mouth of the Bako River. Visiting Sarawak’s oldest national park is among the best things to do in Malaysia for nature lovers.

First impressions of Bako, the coastal forest and craggy outcrops you see as you head here by boat, don’t begin to do justice to its riches. As for fauna, proboscis monkeys are top of most visitors’ lists. There’s a good chance of seeing them not far from the park headquarters itself, though silver leaf monkeys tend to be harder to spot.

The Rough Guides to Malaysia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Tucked away on the island of Borneo is the state of Sabah, a true nature-lovers paradise. From whitewater rafting down wild rivers to scuba diving in crystal-clear waters among exotic marine life, this tailor-made trip to Nature in the Wilds of Sabah has something for anyone looking to experience nature in its purest form.

Proboscis monkey, Malaysia © Yusnizam Yusof/Shutterstock

Since 1998, the Sarawak Cultural Village has been home to the annual Rainforest Music Festival in the Summer. It would be hard to find a more appropriate and evocative setting for a major world music event. The Village’s beautiful tribal homes are not far from the stages and Mount Santubong is the perfect backdrop.

While the event attracts performers from across the globe, it’s especially worthwhile for the opportunity to watch indigenous Bornean musicians. Some of them can seem decidedly exotic even to city-dwelling Sarawakian youth, never mind audiences from further afield.

Beds are hard to come by in Damai and Kuching over this period, so book accommodation early.

Music instrument, Gamelan, Malaysia © Amirul Syaidi/Shutterstock

The city’s complex historical heritage is evident in its Portuguese, Dutch and British buildings and Peranakan ancestral homes. When Penang was known only for its oysters and Singapore was just a fishing village, the influence of Melaka (formerly spelled “Malacca”) already extended beyond the Peninsula.

Political and cultural life flourished in this trading centre under the auspices of the Melaka Sultanate. Founded early in the fifteenth century, this helped to define what it means to be Malay. The heart of Melaka’s colonial centre is Dutch Square, dominated by the Stadthuys; beyond that lie Bukit St Paul (St Paul’s Hill) and numerous museums.

The square is one of the oldest surviving parts of the city.

Find accommodation options to stay in Melaka

Melaka, Malaysia © COO7/Shutterstock

Misty tea plantations, afternoon tea and jungle trails in the cool mountain air. On the western fringes of Pahang state, the Cameron Highlands takes its name from William Cameron, a colonial surveyor. Indian planters, Chinese vegetable farmers and wealthy landowners in search of a weekend retreat flocked in, establishing tea plantations.

The Camerons remain one of the most publicized attractions in Malaysia. However, don’t come expecting the pastoral idyll of the brochures. This is a major agro-industrial area, producing not only tea but also flowers, vegetables and fruit.

What’s more, it gets packed out during weekends, holidays and school breaks, when there can be long tailbacks on the main road.

Find accommodation options to stay in Cameron Highlands

Experience Malaysia's largest and most impressive hill station, the Cameron Highlands, in all its glory, with this compact tailor-made trip . Let your picturesque surroundings soak in as you visit the famous Batu Caves, the Lata Iskandar Waterfalls and a local tea plantation.

Tea plantation, Cameron Highlands, Malaysia © kah loong lee/Shutterstock

Watch dawn over Borneo from the summit of Southeast Asia’s highest mountain.

Kinabalu deserves respect: conditions can be miserably cold and blowy up top, and you need to watch out for cramping and altitude sickness. Take care as you go, as you really don’t want to be stretchered down by porters – which takes hours – because you twisted your ankle high up.

At the same time, don’t overthink the challenge; this is a mountain that can be climbed by anyone of reasonable fitness. The Timpohon Trail is the main route up, and the only one available following the Kinabalu earthquake. It’s possible to set off for the park from KK on the morning of your climb, but staying the previous night in the area is a lot more restful.

Kinabalu Mountain, Malaysia © Shutterstock

Gunung Mulu National Park, the top-notch national park in Sarawak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site takes its name from the mountain at its core, which towers at 2376 meters. Climbing up Gunung Api rewards trekkers with a stunning vista of jagged limestone peaks. In addition, the park is home to a plethora of wildlife that thrives in its underground caves.

However, the park's most well-known attractions are the colossal Deer Cave and the Pinnacles, a collection of 50-meter-high, razor-sharp limestone spikes atop Mount Api. Tourists flock to Mulu (the park's commonly known name) all year round to witness these breathtaking sights, which require a three-day round-trip trek from the park offices, as well as the park's remarkable cave system.

Limestone Gunung Mulu, Malaysia© Juhku/Shutterstock

These remote uplands offer excellent walks and hikes, plus encounters with friendly tribal communities along the way. Right up against the Kalimantan border — the long, high plateau of the Kelabit Highlands has been home to the Kelabit people for hundreds of years.

Despite logging in the Bario area, the Highlands remain generally unspoiled, with occasional wildlife sightings and a refreshing climate. Temperatures are only a few degrees lower than in Miri by day. As such the region is a great target for walkers, and it is easily accessible by air, with several villages served by MASwings.

Discover the magnificence of Malaysia with this comprehensive tailor-made trip through the Culture, Wildlife and History of Malaysia . Stroll around picturesque tea plantations, and trek through dense rainforests. Watch elephants in the wild and laze around on paradise beaches. Explore immense religious monuments and much more, all with this fantastic trip.

Kelabit highlands © Jon Duncan/Shutterstock

Luxurious resorts on sublime beaches pretty much sum up these west-coast islands, close to the border with Thailand. Situated 30km off the coast, Langkawiis is the largest of this archipelago of mostly uninhabited islands.

Once a haven for pirates, the island is now home to some of the priciest resorts in the country, taking advantage of beaches that are among the best on the west coast.

The island is also popular with international yachties for its marinas, which are relatively cheap. Many diversions are on offer beyond lazing around on the sand. We suggest taking a mangrove cruise after sea eagles, snorkelling or scuba diving at the Pulau Payar Marine Park to the south.

Where to stay in Langkawi:

• For luxury: The Danna Langkawi
• For modern stays: Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah

Find more accommodation options to stay in Langkawi

Beach on the Langkawi island, Malaysia © Shutterstock

Very much the symbol of modern Malaysia, the twin columns of the Petronas Towers rise 451.9m above KL’s downtown area, towering over the enormous Suria KLCC mall at their base. The tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004, they’re now not even the tallest buildings in KL.

Despite a definite Art Deco feel, the unusual eight-pointed cross-sectional profile obviously draws on Islamic art. The profusion of squares and circles on the interior walls symbolize harmony and strength. One tower was built by a Japanese team, the other by rivals from Korea.

The views of KL’s sprawl from the Skybridge are pretty spectacular, thanks not least to the blue, glassy towers soaring either side of you – but they’re not quite as good as from the Observation Deck on the 86th floor.

This tailor-made trip to Rustic Malaysia has it all: great beaches, fascinating history, natural habitats and remarkable wildlife. Bustling KL offers the perfect city break; while further afield hiking trails, pristine jungles and fascinating ecosystems will keep the more adventurous visitors entertained.

Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur © kudla/Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Malaysia is to taste the local food. Some of the cheapest and most delicious specialities available in Malaysia come from stalls, traditionally wooden pushcarts on the roadside, surrounded by a few wobbly tables with stools. These stalls serve up mouthwatering noodles, snacks and desserts.

Most serve one or a few standard noodle and rice dishes or specialize in certain delicacies, from oyster omelettes to squid curry. Many stalls are assembled into user-friendly medan selera (literally “appetite square”) or food courts.

Malaysian curry laksa © Shutterstock

Two marine parks lie off the coast of southeast Sabah. The most well-known of which is Sipadan Island. Visiting this park is one of the best things to do in Malaysia for experienced divers.

This park was acclaimed by Jacques Cousteau as “an untouched piece of art”. Sipadan Island is mindboggling, its waters teeming with turtles, moray eels, sharks, barracuda and vast schools of colourful tropical fish. One can even see the occasional dolphin and pilot whale.

The diversity of coral found here is also comparable to that of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Only 120 visitor permits are available for Sipadan daily, so it’s likely you’ll spend a day here with your dive operator and then a few around the nearby islands.

Sipadan island, Malaysia © Marc Witte/Shutterstock

Large communal dwellings, home to members of indigenous tribes, are found along rivers and in remote mountain locations. The Iban longhouses of the Ai headwaters are the best excuse for anyone travelling between western and central Sarawak not to catch the fast Kuching–Sibu ferry.

Despite being on the tourist trail, the longhouses offer a glimpse of what used to be the semi-traditional lifestyle in this remote corner of the state. These areas are protected as a national park and wildlife sanctuary . Sadly, most locals now prefer to live nearer to the road, and many of the villages and longhouses you’ll be taken to are only inhabited while tourists are there.

Longhouse in Sarawak, Malaysia © gualtiero boffi/Shutterstock

The Batu Caves sit right on the northern edge of Greater Kuala Lumpur, where forested limestone thumbs poke out of a ridge of hills in the suburb of Gombak. In 1891 local Indian dignitaries convinced the British administration that the caves were ideal places in which to worship (probably because their geography was reminiscent of the sacred Himalayas).

Arriving at the site, you can’t miss the immense staircase leading up into the limestone crags, and the gigantic golden statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war.

A number of minor temples stand at ground level. However, most visitors head straight up the 272 steps to the caves, pausing only to catch their breath or take photos of the marauding nearby macaques.

Batu Caves entrance © Shutterstock

Named after Malaysia’s first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park contains five islands representing the most westerly ripples of the Crocker mountains. Their forests, beaches and coral reefs lie within 8km of Kota Kinabalu. Snorkelling, diving, watersports and more unusual activities are available.

Such is the park’s appeal that Manukan Island in particular is often overrun. This isn’t to say you can’t have an enjoyable day-trip either on one island or, as many people do, on one in the morning and another in the afternoon. However, don’t expect total calm unless you stay the night at one of the park’s pricey resorts. Manukan aside, only Sapi and Mamutik islands are served by regular boats.

Tropical Islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine reserve Kota Kinabalu © Shutterstock

Island hopping is one of the best things to do in Malaysian Borneo, especially in Sabah, where tourists can discover the spectacular islands that surround the state. One of the must-visit islands here is Gaia Island, just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu.

Although the closest island to Kota Kinabalu, Gaya doesn’t feature on standard island-hopping routes. Visitors can simply take any boat to neighbour Sapi and ask to be dropped off across the channel. If you do make it over, you’ll find idyllic stretches of sand such as Police Bay Beach, as well as jungle trails where you might see proboscis monkeys and hornbills.

Inspired? Plan your trip using our guide to the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia .

Traditional Murut longhouse in Mari Mari Cultural Village, Sabah, Malaysia © Shutterstock

Much of Langkawi’s northwest is untouched rainforest atop low peaks of mixed sandstone and shale, one of which is Mount Machinchang. At its foot, the tourist-trap theme park Oriental Village is the lower terminus of the magnificent Langkawi Cable Car up the mountain. With a 42-degree incline, the ride is not only the steepest of its kind, but also boasts the longest free span for a mono-cable car.

Return trips are sold as package combos that include entrance to the Oriental Village’s other hit-and-miss attractions. Here you'll find a 360-degree 3D cinema Skydome; dinosaur-themed, tram-simulator Skyrex; and the 3D Art Museum. You can also ride a glass-bottomed gondola for full-views of the broccoli-head rainforest underneath your feet.

Cable car Langkawi © Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to Malaysia ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Malaysia without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

When considering a Southeast Asia destination, take a look at Thailand , where you will also find plenty of exciting things to do .

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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12 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

If countries were awarded for diversity, Malaysia would top first place. Not only is Malaysia a melting pot of ethnic cultures, but it is also a blend of many different customs, cuisines and religions all coexisting peacefully together. From large island groups to mountains, fertile highlands and tropical rainforest, the country’s geography is every bit as diverse.

What’s more, Malaysia is a unique country in that is divided into two main landmasses. West Malaysia occupies the southern half of a peninsula shared with Thailand, while across the South China Sea is East Malaysia, situated on the Borneo island. This list of the best places to visit in Malaysia concentrates on the cultural, historic and natural attractions combined. For an insight in Malaysia’s most popular islands & beaches have a look at the best island in Malaysia .

12. Kota Bharu

Often used as a stopover by many travelers visiting the beautiful Perhentian Islands, Kota Bharu offers its own unique charm, attractions, shopping and cuisine. Located in Peninsular Malaysia near the Thailand border, Kota Bharu is the capital of the Kelantan State , a city easy to get around in.

Kota Bharu is well known for its many museums covering the history, culture and heritage of Kelantan. One of the most popular museums is the Royal Museum , which offers a peek into the state’s royal family through many photographs and lavish artifacts. The Museum of Royal Traditions and Ceremonies is worth a visit just to see the unique timber palace it is housed within.

Much of Kota Bharu life revolves around the city’s bustling marketplaces of which the Central Market is the largest. Surrounded by coffee shops and busy streets dotted with old trishaws, the Central Market is teeming in local women working food stands and selling colorful fruits and vegetables.

Outside the city limits, the beach at Pantai Cahaya Bulan and the Mount Stong State Park offer outdoor activities such as swimming, river cruises, rafting and cave exploring. Scuba diving is available at the site of a Japanese shipwreck from the Pacific War.

11. Sipadan

Malaysia’s only oceanic island, Sipadan lies off the east coast of Borneo, surrounded by the tropical waters of the Celebes Sea . Formed over millennia out of living coral reefs, it is now a mecca for scuba divers , who come to explore one of the world’s richest marine habitats.

There are a dazzling array of dives for visitors to choose from; some take you through atmospheric underwater tunnels and caverns and others past steep coral walls and spiraling shoals of fish. Swirling about the island are all manner of marine life , with sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and manta rays spotted here and there.

As the island has been closed since 2004 to protect its beautiful beaches and underwater riches, it is only accessible by boat from Mabul and Kapalai, both of which lie nearby. Once fought over by Malaysia and Indonesia, Sipadan is now one of the best dive destinations in the world.

Commanding an important position on the busy sea route between India and China on West Malaysia’s southwestern coast, Melaka was ruled and battled over for centuries between Indian, Portuguese, British and Dutch governments. As a result, this modern day Malaysian city is now a popular tourist destination packed with architecture, culture, traditions and cuisine all reflecting its rich heritage.

Known as a cultural melting pot, Melaka comprises several districts that all feature their own distinct attractions. The Portuguese Settlement is characterized by charming villas, historic churches and the remains of an old fort. In the Chinese quarter is Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, as well as one of the largest Chinese cemeteries outside the country of China.

The Dutch district features some of the oldest Dutch architecture in the East. Additionally, each cultural zone features its own traditions and festivals such as the Portuguese “Intrudu” and Chinese New Year.

9. Cameron Highlands

Providing a cool escape from the heat of the lowlands, the Cameron Highlands in the Titiwangsa Mountains are one of Malaysia’s oldest tourist destinations . Developed with an English garden charm, this beautiful tableland offers lush scenery, tea plantations, forests, lakes, wildlife and outdoor recreation.

Although lying in considerable distances from one another, several towns and settlements also dot the area, offering lodging, colorful markets and museums such as the Time Tunnel Gallery, which showcases the history, people and development of the Camerons. The most popular of these towns are Brinchang and Tanah Rata.

As Malaysia’s chief tea and flower producer, the Cameron Highlands abounds in sprawling tea plantations and flower gardens as well as vegetable farms, fruit orchards, butterfly gardens and honey bee farms. Many of these establishments are open to the public. Several pictorial golf courses are available for golfers.

A scenic car drive to Malaysia’s highest point, Mount Brinchang , presents spectacular views, while the Mossy Forest features a boardwalk through untouched trees and plants as well as glimpses of birds, animals, reptiles and insects. Well-marked jungle trails lead hikers to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic overlooks.

8. Kota Kinabalu

The capital of the Sabah State in Malaysian Borneo , Kota Kinabalu is a fast-growing tourist destination due to its close proximity to tropical islands, rainforests, wildlife refuges, national parks and Malaysia’s tallest peak, Mount Kinabalu.

Commonly called KK by locals, Kota Kinabalu has a small city center, boasting a number of landmarks, memorials and an observatory, which offers splendid views of the city.

Most of KK’s main attractions lie outside of the city such as Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre and Kinabalu National Park , which offer wildlife such as proboscis monkeys, orangutans and elephants as well as outdoor adventure like jungle trekking, mountain climbing , whitewater rafting and river cruises.

Just minutes from the city, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park features five small islands that are ideal for diving, swimming and sailing. A visit to the Monsopiad Cultural Village is a must-do to experience the traditions and culture of the Kadazan indigenous tribe and to see the trophy skulls claimed by a legendary warrior more than 300 years ago.

7. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are a small group of beautiful, coral-fringed islands off the coast of northeastern Malaysia, not far from the Thai border. The two main islands are Perhentian Besar (“Big Perhentian”) and Perhentian Kecil (“Small Perhentian”). Kecil attracts more travellers as it has cheaper accommodation, while Besar is a little more expensive and caters more to families and those who want to avoid the backpacker party scene.

The Perhentian Islands offer some great diving and excellent snorkeling . In addition to coral and fish, the Perhentians are home to sea turtles and several species of shark. The islands are also crisscrossed by small paths connecting one beach to another, but be prepared to sweat and swat off bugs if you tackle any of these.

There is very little luxury accommodation on the Perhentian islands. with the top of the line being air-conditioned chalets and the bottom being a bunk in a longhouse. Discounts are usually negotiable in the off season but the better accommodation can get snapped up fast especially on weekends and holidays.

The largest city on Borneo Island , Kuching is a popular base for exploring Borneo’s rainforest and the state of Sarawak. However, Kuching offers plenty for tourists to see and do during their stay, from sightseeing historic landmarks to bustling markets and outdoor recreation.

Kuching presents a unique setting with its skyscrapers and modern architecture surrounded by lush jungle. The city is situated on the banks of the Sarawak River with a beautifully landscaped waterfront offering views of historic landmarks such as Fort Margherita and Astana palace as well as impressive modern structures like the DUN complex.

The busy waterfront is where tourists will find an array of food vendors, musical fountains, an observation tower, an open-air theater and a number of river cruise operations.

A walk down Kuching’s oldest street, Main Bazaar, reveals historic Chinese temples, markets and many antique and handicraft shops. Numerous museums in the city exhibit local history and art works, while an aquarium displays fish species from the Sarawak River .

Distinct for its umbrella-shaped roof, the Kuching Civic Center contains a planetarium and a viewing platform presenting outstanding aerial views. Picturesque gardens and nearby national parks all offer waterfalls, wildlife and recreational activities like jungle trekking and cave exploring.

Located in the Strait of Malacca off West Malaysia’s northwestern coast, Penang Island is a popular tourist destination due to its historic George Town and rich culinary diversity. Its position along one of the world’s most traveled shipping routes has infused Penang with a colorful array of cultures, architecture and cuisine.

Whether by car or public buses, Penang Island should be explored to see and experience its many attractions like the Botanic Gardens, Bird Sanctuary, Butterfly Park and the white sandy beaches of Batu Ferringhi along the north coast. Numerous temples dot the island including the must-see Snake Temple with its viper residents and the huge Temple of Supreme Bliss.

Formerly a leper and prison colony, Jerejak Island , on Penang’s southeastern tip, is now a tropical paradise offering outdoor adventure as well as spa and pampering services.

No visit to Penang would be complete without a trishaw ride or walk around the island’s capital city, George Town , to see its British colonial architecture and historic Chinese and Indian temples. Additionally, George Town is filled with markets, restaurants and bars. Also not to miss here is Little India , a district rife with aromatic spices and lively Bollywood music.

Widely regarded as Malaysia’s food capital, Penang is famous for it culinary mixture of all the world’s major cuisines, making it a unique cuisine in and of itself. Delicious choices abound from upscale seafood restaurants to Chinese Dim Sum stalls, bakeries and roadside vendors serving the local specialty, Char Koay Teow, a stir-fried dish of rice noodles, cockles and bean sprouts.

4. Kuala Lumpur

Less than 200 year ago, Kuala Lumpur was just a quiet tin-mining town in West Malaysia. Today, this same sleepy village has flourished into the country’s federal capital and largest metropolis .

Commonly called KL by locals, this vibrant city is a cultural melting pot, noted for its impressive skyscrapers and buzzing scenes of shopping , dining and nightlife. When compared to other major world cities, KL is one of the more affordable travel destinations.

See also: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Like many large cities, Kuala Lumpur suffers from heavy traffic, so getting around is best by monorail. From sightseeing historic landmarks and British colonial buildings in the Old City to viewing the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in the modern district, and browsing the colorful street stalls in Chinatown , there is no shortage of things to see and do in KL .

3. Taman Negara

Encompassing three states across the northern part of West Malaysia, Taman Negara is reputed to be the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. A popular ecotourism and adventure destination, this national park is teeming in in wildlife from rare plants to exotic birds and scarce animals like the Malayan Tiger, Asian elephant and Sumatran Rhinoceros.

Most visitors access Taman Negara through the town of Kuala Tahan , which is located across the river from the national park headquarters. From the visitor’s center, jungle hikes and other adventures can be arranged.

There are a variety of exciting ways to experience the park’s natural attractions such as hiking, fishing and cave-exploring. One of the most popular things to do is in Taman Negara the Canopy Walk, a long suspension bridge high above the treetops where visitors can walk and glimpse exotic birds.

Guided night safaris are also available to see plants that only bloom at night, glow-in-the-dark fungi and nocturnal creatures like owls, leopard cats and water dragons. Climbing Teresek Hill also provides opportunities to see rare birds, wild boars and beautiful panoramic views.

Visiting the settlements of indigenous groups, known Orang Asli , are worthwhile to learn about their traditions and tips for surviving in the jungle. For food choices, the floating restaurants along Kula Tahan’s riverside are not to be missed.

2. Langkawi

Located off Malaysia’s northwestern coast in the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands boasting picturesque beaches, rainforest, mangroves and forest-clad mountains, making it one of Malaysia’s most popular destination.

In recent years, hotels , restaurants and other tourist facilities have developed in Langkawi, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the archipelago’s exceptional natural beauty.

By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 65,000, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. The island’s natural splendor is its number one attraction .

Beaches offer powdery white sands, crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs and water sports. The most popular beach, Pantai Cenang , is busy with restaurants and bars. The beaches of Pantai Tengah and Pantai Kok are more isolated, offering peace and tranquility.

Several protected parks offer jungle trekking and mangrove tours where visitors can experience breathtaking views of the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and exotic birds and animals like monitor lizards and macaque monkeys.

Gunung Raya and Gunung Mat Cincang are Langkawi’s tallest mountains with lookout points presenting outstanding views of the area and across to Thailand . Gondola rides and the SkyBridge are fun ways to ascend the mountains and survey the surrounding beauty.

1. Gunung Mulu National Park

Famous for its extraordinary limestone karst formations and phenomenal cave systems, the Gunung Mulu National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in all of Southeast Asia.

Located in Malaysian Borneo in the Sarawak State, this national park features some of the largest and longest cave systems in the world. Included in these is the world’s largest cave chamber, the Sarawak Chamber , which is estimated large enough to hold 40 Boeing 747 aircraft.

Situated among rainforest, crystal-clear rivers, rugged mountains and deep ravines, the park’s other remarkable features include the Pinnacles , a concentration of pointed, limestone spires, a karst sinkhole known as the Garden of Eden , and two majestic peaks, Gunung Mulu and Gunung Api.

The park is also home to a number of wildlife species such as hornbills, bats, gibbons, barking deer and bearded pigs. In addition to guided cave tours and hiking, a popular activity here is walking high above the treetops along the world’s longest canopy walk.

Because Gunung Mulu National Park is located in a remote area, the best way to access it is by air into the Mulu Airport . However, it is also possible to reach it by a combination of road, boat and hiking from Miri, although this can take many hours or days. Arrangements with tour guides will provide transportation and lodging.

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Reader interactions.

June 2, 2019 at 11:00 pm

I’ve been to Langkawi island, Cameron highlands and KL city. Its a really good experience to visit Malaysia.

December 9, 2017 at 7:47 pm

Great recommendations. I am surprised that Kota Bharu made it to your list – it’s just a bit unusual. But I am more surprised that Terengganu and its gorgeous islands such as Perhentian and Redang didn’t make it. Disclaimer: I am from Terengganu.

April 23, 2016 at 6:52 am

Kilim Geo Park in langkawi is a great place to visit

November 21, 2015 at 1:25 am

Thanks for nice article! Can you tell about some unexplored places to visit in Malaysia which are less crowded.

September 5, 2015 at 10:27 pm

I’VE been to langkawi twice. Never forget the 7 wells, cable car, pulau datang bunting and pulau beras basah, bukit monyet @westin resort. Beautiful. I recommend u all.

June 5, 2015 at 3:33 pm

Thanks a lot for this exhaustive list! Looking forward to experiencing Malaysia!

February 20, 2014 at 8:36 pm

I have been to Kuala Lumpur, and the city is stunning. There’s a place near KLCC where i went for batik painting workshop. Batik is one of the most important traditional handicrafts in Malaysia. The place is called MyBatik, and i had a really relaxing and good time there with my family.

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The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia: A Full Itinerary

01/11/2018 by Ashley Yap 15 Comments

When I backpacked around Southeast Asia back in 2013, I had low expectations for Malaysia – it was not the most popular or talked about stop on the Banana Pancake Trail. However, Malaysia ended up having so much to offer, it baffles me why it’s not as hyped a backpacking destination as its neighbors.

Malaysia is a unique country where you get to see different ethnicities coming together, living in harmony for the most part. The food is amazing and I honestly don’t think I’ve even tried half of what it has to offer during my six-week stay in Malaysia. I visited temples of different religions, had the best diving experience of my life, and trekked to the highest hike-able peak in Southeast Asia. If someone tells you to give Malaysia a pass, don’t believe them.

Here’s my guide to 17 of the best places to visit in Malaysia, starting from the Peninsula, from north to south (which could be easily reversed if you are coming from the other direction), followed by crossing over to Borneo. Some of the suggestions on this itinerary are well known and some are off the typical backpacking radar:

The state that borders Thailand is often shadowed by its popular neighbor. However, Kedah has its own charm. More and more locals now operate traditional Malay house style guesthouses that are surrounded by vast paddy fields, so if you want a rustic, authentic Malaysian experience, Kedah is worth stopping in for a night or two before heading over to Langkawi. Maximize your short time here by asking the friendly locals where the best food spots are, and check out one of the grandest and oldest mosques in Malaysia, the Zahir Mosque.

Stay: Tamteh Homestay

From Kedah, take a 2-hour ferry ride to Langkawi, an island popular with the locals for its duty-free shopping. The main island is one of the more commercialized islands in Malaysia, but a cheap island hopping trip (which costs less than $15) will take you to the surrounding islands with crystal clear water and beautiful beaches. My tip is to stay on Cenang beach, as it is where all the good food is, but spend your time on the surrounding islands during the day. You can also take a day hike to the Temurun waterfall and hang out with the friendly locals. The cable car is also a fun way to see Langkawi from high above. Read more about Langkawi here .

Stay : Langkawi Dormitory or Pondok Keladi

George Town

George Town is a foodie paradise. The amount and variety of good food is almost overwhelming, so here are a few must-tries:

Char Kuey Teow – these golden stir fry noodles are paired with juicy prawns, bean sprouts, eggs, and greens. The best one is from this roadside stall located at the corner of Siam Road and Anson Road. Expect long queues, mainly from the locals – which is always a good sign!

Laksa – Another noodle dish but with broth that is sour, spicy, and slightly sweet at the same time. Many would go to the popular stall located next to Kek Lok Si, but a local favorite is Laksa Bisu, located at Annex Market.

Rojak – Basically a salad, but with crackers, fruits, nuts, and catch this: a thick sauce made of shrimp paste, chili, and lots of sugar.

Cendol – a local favorite dessert, cendol is a humble bowl of shaved ice, kidney beans, condensed milk, and flavored flour noodles. It may sound strange but it’s perfect on a scorching hot day, though the best one located at the back alley of Lebuh Keng Kwee would require you to stand under the scorching hot sun while savoring it.

When you are stuffed to the point that eating is no longer possible, which I experienced often in Malaysia, take a walk along the streets of George Town and hunt for the Insta-worthy street art curated by Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic, or check out the beautiful Kek Lok Si , as well as the Peranakan mansions.

Stay : I really liked my stay at Reggae Penang. Unfortunately, it’s now permanently closed. The Frame Guesthouse is strategically located and offers both dorms and private rooms. For a more luxurious stay, check out Eastern & Oriental Hotel

First Name:

Royal Belum State Park, Perak

Many visitors to Malaysia have heard of Taman Negara, the most popular national park on the Peninsula. It’s vast and filled with various flora and fauna, and a wonderful spot for the adventurous. However, for something that is off the beaten path, check out Royal Belum State Park located in Perak, right below George Town. It offers a remote wilderness of about 117,500 hectares, and while getting there could be a challenge, it is worth every effort. You could swim in the lake, trek through the 130 million year old forest, and admire one of the biggest flowers in the world, the Rafflesia (from a distance, because they smell like horse piss, no really). If you are coming from George Town, there are daily buses that depart for Gerik town, and from there, your lodge will pick you up, or you can take a taxi.

Stay: Belum Rainforest Resort

Cameron Highlands

I remember feeling grateful for the cold temperatures in Cameron Highlands, a great escape from a typically hot and humid Southeast Asia. Cameron Highlands is very touristy, but there are always ways to escape the crowds. Trek through the jungle, look for a quiet strawberry farm, and opt for the less popular tea plantations, and you are good to go!

Stay : I really enjoyed my stay at De’Native ! It’s in the forest with great atmosphere.

Perhentian Islands

I loved the beaches on Perhentian, and I loved the diving experience even more. There are two islands, namely the small Perhentian, and the big Perhentian. The small one leans toward backpackers, whereas the big one leans toward resorts and hotels. Regardless of which island you end up on, the island hopping trip takes you to the same spots surrounding Perhentian. You can also take a boat ride to the even quieter Lang Tengah and Kapas island. The atmosphere on both islands are laid back and peaceful, which is what I like about them.

Stay : Camp at Rainforest Camping or a jungle safari tent ( use this code to get discount !)

Kuala Lumpur

At first sight, KL looks just like any other city with its traffic, shopping malls, and skyscrapers. However, you only need to dig a little bit deeper to experience the real Kuala Lumpur. Here are some tips: instead of Jalan Alor and Chinatown, fill your tummy at Pudu’s ICC hawker food centre and Connaught garden food market (both accessible by Grab); instead of the mandatory shot in front of the Petronas Towers, check out the many rooftop bars with unblocked views of the entire city; to get away from the hustle and bustle, there’s an hour-long trek at Apek Hill, a local favorite. Finally, if you have the time, go watch a movie in any local cinema. After all, where else can you find three language subtitles on one screen?

Stay : I have fond memories of Reggae Mansion Kuala Lumpur though it is a party place. Tuxedo KL offers a rooftop view of the city AND an infinity pool.

Chemerung Falls, Terengganu

Just two hours away from Kuala Lumpur, Chemerung is a beautiful, hidden waterfall tucked away in Terengganu.Chemerung waterfall is well over 300 meters tall with foaming waters cascading from the skies above, slipping down the craggy mountainside and pooling in the basins of rock below. That sounds like a good place to be, right?

Stay : campsites are available if you are planning on trekking for 9 hours to the top.

The Dusun, Seremban

Here’s another cool spot that’s lesser known to tourists. The Dusun is a tropical rainforest resort located in Seremban, just about an hour away from the international airport. There are a total of 7 houses each with a different theme, surrounded by 4000 acres of virgin forest. Prices start at about $100 per night, which can be shared by 2 people. It’s great for couples or a group of friends. If you are traveling solo, ask around and see if someone would like to come along!

Stay : The Dusun

Some may compare Malacca to George Town, as both are heavily colonial influenced and offer delicious street food. However Malacca has more of a small-town vibe compared to George Town, and it is worth the visit. Street food wise, it’s famous for Portuguese egg tarts, chicken rice balls, Satay Celup, and coconut shakes. But as always, dig a little bit deeper and you will find some local favorites off the tourist radar:

Putu Piring : a hemispherical snack made of coconut shreds and filled with coconut sugar. The best one is home made by an old couple at their house – 252, Jalan Tengkera.

Cockles : Don’t be put off by the humble stall right next to a drain (the stall’s name translates as “drain cockles”). Take a seat and order a plate of fresh cockles and clams and slurp away with the local foodies – Longkang Siham, Jalan Bunga Raya, Madam King.

Durian Cendol : If you have yet to give the infamously stinky Durian a try, start with a Durian cendol! Then you can decide which side you belong (personally I’m a lover and advocate of it)- 115, Jalan Merdeka.

Taibak : A traditional Nyonya cold dessert, this is a mixture of shaved ice, pandan infused syrup, rice flour noodles, and black grass jelly cubes – the stall is right next to Wesley Methodist Church.

Stay : Nomaps offers nice and clean dorms. This spacious suite costs only about $70 per night!

Tioman Island

From Malacca, you can take a bus that departs daily to Mersing Jetty, and take a boat to yet another off the beaten path place on the Peninsula – Tioman Island. Perhaps due to the country’s Islamic culture, Malaysian islands exude a laid back, peaceful atmosphere, as opposed to the party vibe of many Thai islands. On Tioman Island, restaurants open and close as they like, and there are more basic huts with no WiFi or water heaters (A.K.A. perfection) than resorts. Scuba diving is fantastic, as you can potentially see sharks, turtles, and colorful corals. It is also a great place to get your diving license, so you can explore deeper in the next stops!

Stay : A beachfront, simple chalet is always a good idea. Santai Bistro Resort costs less than $50 per night.

Pemangil Island

Pemangil Island is possibly the Peninsula’s best kept secret (and here I am, letting it out…). It’s an incredible place to snorkel or dive in, the water is amazing, the beach is nice and clean, and the last time I checked, there’s only one resort on the island. Rock cliff climbing is a popular sport here. The locals are also happy to show you around the village, and you will get a glimpse of how the locals live.

Mount Kinabalu

This is one heck of a climb, but oh-so worth it! I did it in one day but unfortunately this is no longer permitted. A minimum of 2D1N is now required to climb to the peak of Mount Kinabalu, however this allows you to arrive at the peak at sunrise, which must be an unforgettable treat. I wrote about my personal experience , and updated it with the latest information on how to get there and what to expect.

Stay : I stayed at Kinabalu Mountain Lodge , which is only 2km from the park entrance.

Sipadan Island

This is yet another diving paradise of many in Malaysia, but trust me, this one is officially one of the best dive sites in the world, according to multiple sources including CNN Travel . I can also attest, given that after completing 150 dives, I still rank Sipadan right at the top of my best diving experiences. Sipadan limits daily divers and requires a permit to dive, so book in advance – I’d suggest at least one month ahead, or just as soon as you’ve booked your flight tickets to Sabah. Another tip is to stay on Mabul, where you get to see the sea gypsea tribe.

Stay : I dived and stayed with Scuba Junkie , and loved my experience with them. If you don’t mind staying a bit further away, look for accommodation options in Semporna .

Sulug Island

This is the farthest island from Kota Kinabalu, perfect for those in search of an off the beaten path adventure. It is the least visited island of the 5, and offers little to no facilities on the island. Spending a few hours on Sulug should make you wonder if you are made for the Robinson Crusoe life.

Stay : While most people do day trips to Sulug, you can also camp on the island.

Kinabatangan River

This is a tricky one to get to, but well worth the effort (have you noticed the pattern?). From Kinabalu, you can take a 6-hour long bus to Sandakan, the second largest town in Sabah. As most private cruise companies and lodges offer transfers, there’s virtually no public transport available to Sukau (closest town to the river) other than a minibus that leaves after lunch time daily.

As for the river cruise, there are a few companies offering 1-3 days trips. Most lodges double up as cruise companies, which make things easier.

Stay : for something more affordable and rustic, check out Lodge Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat (less than $50 per night). Nature Lodge Kinabatangan is the most popular accommodation in that area.

Kudat – the Tip of Borneo

I still remember the beaches at the Tip of Borneo fondly, with their white sand, little purple flowers, incredibly clear blue water, and not another soul or a single piece of trash in sight. It’s an underrated beauty without many other tourists, but it’s so worth checking out. You can get yourself there by renting a motorbike in Kota Kinabalu.

Stay : There were just about 3 or 4 guesthouses around when I was there in 2013, but you can now pick from a few resorts as well as Airbnbs .

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Dominique | dominiquetravels.com says

01/11/2018 at 7:05 am

Sipadan is super high on my list for the next trip to Malaysian Borneo! I can also really recommend Mulu National Park. It’s a great place for hiking and caving 🙂

Kristin says

01/11/2018 at 11:30 pm

Sipadan is mind blowing!

01/11/2018 at 10:53 am

Thanks for this thorough brochure on what to see and do in Malaysia. Such a pretty country with amazing beaches and gorgeous waterfalls and lush mountains. Definitely on the list if I can get over to that part of the world, especially if it is more low-key. One thing I have heard from people who travel to SE Asia is that the people in Malaysia are so warm and friendly…willing to give their shirt off their back, literally! The few I have had the benefit to encounter in my own life have fit this description. That is a pull for me. The multiculturalism is another wonderful thing.

As for Pemangil Island, your secret is safe with me! What island??

One question about the cable car, how steep a drop is it? It looks really scenic when the sky is clear!

One other thing that I learned recently about the monsoon season from a Malaysian friend (and then I did more research based on this person’s valuable info since I love weather and want to understand it) is that it is really complicated. They have two of them, the Southwest monsoon from Australia and the Northeast monsoon from China (complicated enough with just one!) with the latter bigger and occurring now (Oct-March), the other (April-Sept). Supposedly the “West Coast” is drier in “April-Oct” and the “East Coast” is drier in “April-Sept”. Well, right now it is pouring in the “West Coast” and it is January! But then there are strings of sunny, hot, and humid days. Then there are typhoons and La Nina/El Nino, climate change, etc. that complicate it and might make it dry even during the wet season. So it can rain hard anytime and be dry anytime. My point is that there are so many sites saying when “it is good to visit Malaysia” or “SE Asia” in terms of weather (it might be more informative though for more northern areas like Laos and Cambodia where the dry and wet season are more defined) . My suggestion is to perhaps disregard them, keep tabs of the weather like you would anywhere else, go to Malaysia when you can, it is a beautiful country and to be honest, I don’t mind the rainfall if it relieves you from the heat (it is humid all the time, better with the temperatures lower! Okay don’t want flooding of course). Another nice thing about the tropics, it can be pouring in one town all day and it be fine in the next. I guess a better way to judge what time of year to go is based on things like lighter or heavier tourist seasons (ignorant on this one regarding when that is) and when it is convenient for you! If anyone here thinks I am way off here, let me know. I really want to understand it!!

01/11/2018 at 10:59 am

Sorry, messed up there, I meant to say “the “West Coast” is supposedly DRIER from OCTOBER to MARCH.”

Ijana Loss says

01/12/2018 at 8:49 am

Wow great resource! I will admit I have never really thought about Malaysia too much. You’re right, it’s right by Thailand so I imagine often gets overshadowed. Now I’m trying to figure how to work Malaysia into my budget along with all the other places I wanna go lol

01/12/2018 at 7:02 pm

It’s a bit more expensive than the surrounding countries (except for Singapore which is a pretty penny) but so nice and gorgeous and with fewer other travelers, but I found that the people I met there were the right kind of travelers. Just awesome!

Sing dong says

08/20/2018 at 2:09 am

This is a nice place to travel to Malaysia. Perhentian Islands is a nice place I want to visit this place soon.

Kimi Soni says

11/19/2018 at 9:22 pm

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

11/20/2018 at 12:08 am

I love Indonesia! I have a similar post here https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/indonesia-itinerary/

Kalpana says

11/30/2018 at 8:12 am

Hi indeed great plan shared I am visiting Malaysia on businesses trip for 20days and my stay in KL is booked ,how long should I plan for langkawi island can i do it over weekend ?

12/02/2018 at 1:11 am

I’d say yes.

Emily Henning says

07/28/2019 at 8:09 pm

Hi Kristin! I’ve read your blog for awhile but never commented. Planning two weeks in Malaysia (coming from Singapore and going to Thailand) and I think I only have time for either Tioman or the Perhentians… I know this is an impossible question but do you have a recommendation as to which I should visit? I love beaches, trekking, and am getting my PADI certification before I go!

08/01/2019 at 2:42 am

You’d love either place I’m sure. Pick whichever is easier logistically for you!

01/20/2020 at 3:03 am

One of my favorite food the laska and Malaysia is the best place to visit.

Ankita Pandey says

12/10/2023 at 8:02 am

I appreciate the way you’ve woven together cultural insights, historical significance, and practical tips for travelers. Your passion for Malaysia comes through in your vivid descriptions, making each destination come to life on the page. Thanks for being a reliable source of inspiration for fellow travelers like myself. Your well-researched and heartfelt recommendations have definitely fueled my wanderlust for Malaysia.

20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Kuala Lumpur

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

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

How to go :

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

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

Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)

Malaysia Travel Essentials:

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

Malaysia Fares & Transport

Malaysia Tours & Discounts

Malaysia  WIFI/SIM Card

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

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

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2. Penang & Georgetown

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

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

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

Penang Travel Essentials

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

THE TOP Komtar Penang

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

Location : Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

Melaka Travel Essentials

4. Langkawi

Location : Kedah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

Langkawi Travel Essentials

Shared Ferry Transfers Between Langkawi and Koh Lipe

Ferry Ticket between Koh Lipe and Langkawi by Hi Lipe

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

5. Putrajaya

Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

Putrajaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

6. Legoland & Johor Bahru

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

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

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

Johor Bahru Travel Essentials

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Legoland Malaysia – SG Transfers

7. Kota Kinabalu

Location : Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu Travel Essentials

Kota Kinabalu City Half Day Tour

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring

Tunku Abdul Rahman Island Visit & Boat Snorkeling Experience

On My Bucketlist

8. Mount Kinabalu

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

9. Cameron Highlands

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

10. Perhentian Islands

Location : Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Redang Island

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

12. Sipadan Island

13. Tioman Island

Location : Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Genting Highlands

15. Mulu Caves

Location : Sarawak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Ipoh Travel Essentials

17. Kuching & Sarawak

18. Sandakan

19. Pahang Taman Negara

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

Pahang Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

20. Bukit Tinggi

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

Beyond Malaysia

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

Singapore Travel Essentials

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

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

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

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

Places to visit in Malaysia

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

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Malaysia

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

Where to Stay in Malaysia

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

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

Malaysia Essentials & Top Discounts

Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

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

Japan SIM card Pocket WIFI See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Kuala Lumpur Airport Train Ticket (KLIA Ekspres)

KL Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass

Kota Kinabalu Sunset and City Night Dinner Cruise with Complimentary Drinks

Click below to see more on:

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Kota Kinabalu
• Johor Bahru
• Southeast Asia

Find more posts about:

• Best Travel
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December 11, 2015 at 4:09 am

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

December 11, 2015 at 1:48 pm

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

November 20, 2018 at 1:30 pm

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

January 28, 2019 at 4:03 pm

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

December 5, 2019 at 2:15 pm

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

May 5, 2020 at 8:35 pm

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

October 4, 2021 at 11:59 pm

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

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Discover 20 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 2023

Malaysia is a country that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving tourism industry. Its unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences has created a vibrant and diverse culture in its cuisine, architecture, and festivals. From the bustling cities of Kuala Lumpur and Penang to the tranquil rainforests of Taman Negara and the beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers something for every type of traveler.

In this article, we will highlight the 20 best places to visit in Malaysia in 2023, providing you with an ultimate travel guide to plan your trip. Whether you want to explore the country's rich history and heritage, immerse yourself in its stunning natural landscapes, or simply relax on its beautiful beaches, we've got you covered. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the best that Malaysia has to offer.

Top 20 places To Visit In Malaysia In 2023

1. kuala lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, which offer breathtaking views of the cityscape from its observation deck. Other popular attractions include the Batu Caves, the Merdeka Square, and the vibrant night markets.

You May Also Like to Read: Explore Kuala Lumpur: Attractions, Activities, And More

2. George Town

George Town, located on the island of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a melting pot of cultures. It is known for its colorful street art, colonial architecture, and delicious food. Visitors can stroll along the historic streets and sample the local cuisine, including everything from Indian curries to Chinese noodles.

You May Also Like to Read:  Exploring George Town In Penang: Malaysia's Pearl Of Orient

3. Langkawi

Langkawi is a group of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is a popular destination for water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and exploring the island's lush rainforest.

You May Also Like to Read:  Explore the Tropical Paradise of Langkawi: Reasons To Visit

Malacca is a historic city on the west coast of Malaysia, known for its rich heritage and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the city's museums, galleries, and temples or stroll along the famous Jonker Street night market.

5. Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is a picturesque hill station in the heart of Malaysia's tea country. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea plantations, sample the locally grown tea, or hike through the lush forests and rolling hills.

6. Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, located on the island of Borneo, is a vibrant city known for its stunning sunsets and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and galleries or take a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling and diving.

7. Taman Negara

Taman Negara is a vast national park in the heart of Malaysia, known for its pristine rainforest and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park , which includes trekking through the jungle, exploring the caves, and spotting rare animals like tigers and elephants.

8. Tioman Island

Tioman Island is a small but stunning island located off the east coast of Malaysia, known for its turquoise waters and coral reefs. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.

Kuching, located on the island of Borneo, is a charming city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Explore the city's many museums and galleries, or take a boat trip down the Sarawak River to see the local wildlife.

10. Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Malaysia's Sarawak region. The park is known for its incredible limestone formations, including the world's largest cave chamber, the Sarawak Chamber. Visitors can explore the park's caves on guided tours, hike through the rainforest, and see various wildlife, including hornbills, gibbons, and bats. The park also offers a unique experience called the "bat exodus," where visitors can witness millions of bats leaving the caves at dusk to hunt for food.

11. Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sabah, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Hike to Mount Kinabalu's summit, Southeast Asia's highest peak. Visitors can walk to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, or explore the park's many trails, which wind through the lush rainforest and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

12. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are a pair of stunning islands located off the east coast of Malaysia, known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the turquoise waters, or go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs.

13. Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is a bustling city across the border from Singapore, known for its shopping and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and galleries or visit the famous Legoland theme park.

14. Putrajaya

Putrajaya is a modern city located just south of Kuala Lumpur, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful parks. Tour the city's many landmarks, including the Putra Mosque and the Seri Perdana complex.

15. Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands is a popular hill station located just outside Kuala Lumpur, known for its cool climate and stunning views. Visitors can take a cable car ride up the mountain to the Genting Highlands resort, which offers a range of attractions and activities, including a theme park and a casino.

16. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured orangutans. Visitors can watch the orangutans being fed and playing in their natural habitat or take a guided tour of the center to learn more about these fascinating creatures.

17. Batu Ferringhi

Batu Ferringhi is a popular beach destination on Penang island, known for its stunning coastline and vibrant nightlife. Relax on the beach, sample the local cuisine at the many restaurants and street stalls, or shop for souvenirs at the night market. Plenty of water sports activities are also available, such as jet skiing and parasailing. 

You May Also Like to Read:  Island Paradise: Unveiling the Beauty and Charm of Penang

18. Redang Island

Redang Island is a popular destination for beach lovers and snorkelers, located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to see the diverse marine life, relax on the beach, and soak up the sun.

19. Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the capital city of the Terengganu state and is located on the east coast of Malaysia. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage. It is home to several historical landmarks and museums, including the Terengganu State Museum, one of Southeast Asia's most prominent museums. Visitors can also explore the city's many markets, sample the local cuisine, and cruise along the Terengganu River.

20. Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is a stunning tropical paradise in the Celebes Sea, off the east coast of Malaysian Borneo. This small island is known for its incredible marine life, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers worldwide.

The island is surrounded by one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world, with over 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of species of coral. Divers can explore the stunning coral gardens, underwater caves, and stunning drop-offs surrounding the island. Highlights include the Barracuda Point, Turtle Cavern, and South Point dive sites, all teeming with various marine life.

In conclusion, Malaysia is a truly unique and diverse country that offers travelers numerous natural and cultural attractions. Malaysia has it all, whether you're seeking a bustling city experience or a peaceful escape to nature. The 20 destinations highlighted in this guide are just the tip of the iceberg; there is so much more to discover in this beautiful country. From its mouth-watering cuisine to its fascinating history and stunning natural landscapes, Malaysia is a destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list. So, start planning your trip today and get ready to experience Malaysia's best in 2023.

Keep reading Leisure.com for more information on your favorite destinations, tips on travel planning, and inspiration for your next adventure. Happy travels!

Which is the most visited place in Malaysia?

The most visited place in Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city. Known for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Kuala Lumpur attracts millions of visitors annually.

Is Malaysia an excellent place to travel?

Malaysia is a great travel destination for natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. The country is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you're a solo traveler or traveling with family, there's something for everyone in Malaysia.

How many days are enough for Malaysia?

The time you need in Malaysia depends on what you want to see and do. A week or two should be enough if you're interested in exploring the country's major cities and attractions. However, you may want to explore the more remote parts of the country or participate in adventure activities like trekking and diving. In that case, you should plan for a more extended trip.

What is the best month to visit Malaysia?

Ideally, the best time to visit Malaysia is between March and October, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, remember that some parts of the country, particularly the east coast, experience a monsoon season from November to February. It's also worth noting that some festivals and events, like Chinese New Year and the Rainforest World Music Festival, take place at specific times of the year, so plan accordingly if you want to experience these.

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Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get around Malaysia

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

→ Check timetables and book tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to go in Malaysia: Cities & culture

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

George Town (Penang)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu

Recommended by Khushboo, Munni of All Trades

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Sharon, Dive into Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

Bukit Mertajam

By Marco Ferrarese, Penang Insider

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

Recommended by Sonakshi and Mainak, Places In Pixel

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

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

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

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

Johor Bahru

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kek Lok Si Temple

Recommended by Rose, Where Goes Rose

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Nature, adventure & wildlife

Cameron highlands.

Recommended by Luke, The Coastal Campaign

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

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

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

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

Teman Negara

Recommended by Stephen, Asia-Hikes

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

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

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

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

Gunung Mulu National Park

Recommended by Oksana and Max, Drink Tea & Travel

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Rachita, Nomllers

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

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

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

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

Danum Valley

Recommended by James Ian, Travel Collecting

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

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

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

Gua Tempurung

Recommended by Iuliya, Vidadeliya

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Marya, The BeauTraveler

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

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

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

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

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Islands & beaches

Recommended by Cathy, Mummy Travels

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

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson

Recommended by Allison, Urbanite Diary

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

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

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

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

Sipadan Island

Recommended by Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perhentian Islands

Recommended by Lotte, Phenomenal Globe

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

Recommended by Kirsten, Sand in My Curls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tioman Island

By Vivien and Aaron, The Dharma Trails

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Resorts

Avani sepang goldcoast resort, sepang.

Recommended by Stephanie, History Fangirl

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

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

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

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

Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands

Recommended by Sandy and Vyjay, Voyager

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

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

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

Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi

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

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

Malaysia essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this excellent post!

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

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

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

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

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

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27 BEST Places to Visit in Malaysia [2023]

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia known for some of the most exceptional landscapes and ecosystems in the world.

While the country has seen drastic changes over the past several hundred years, it continues to wow visitors with its ethnically diverse culture and history.

However, there are many people who haven’t put Malaysia at the top of their travel itinerary. From the tranquil, secluded islands to the hidden, underground caves, we’re here to tell you about the top places you absolutely must visit when traveling to Malaysia!

Staying safe in Malaysia

Malaysia is a relatively safe country for tourists to visit. The biggest threat to tourists is petty theft, so take precaution when walking through busy streets or neighborhoods during the day and night.

Since Malaysia is predominately Muslim, it is best to respect the local culture and customs by dressing appropriately when visiting conservative cities or mosques.

But while Malaysia is very safe as a whole, no matter where you travel you absolutely NEED to have travel insurance. 

Travel insurance  is the best way to keep you and your belongings safe and secure while you are traveling abroad. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote :)

#1 – Malacca Historic City

One of the nicer places in malaysia to sightsee.

• Almost half a million residents
• Oldest Malaysian city

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca City is a historical capital that mixes Dutch colonial architecture with Portuguese influences. Although Malacca City as transformed into a cosmopolitan hub of shopping centers and international restaurants, it still somehow manages to remain true to its Malaysian heritage.

The historic center is quite accessible, and can easily be explored by foot or by a traditional trishaw. Home to some of Malaysia’s top attractions and restaurants, you’ll definitely want to add Malacca City to your itinerary!

• A’Famosa Melaka may just seem like a pile of ruins, but it was actually a Portuguese fort that was built in the early 1500s. Now a great picture spot, A’Famosa Melaka is one of the last remaining European buildings in all of Malaysia.
• Dutch Square sits in the middle of Malacca and is lined with bright, salmon-colored buildings on all sides. At the center is a Victorian marble fountain, which is surrounded by lush, green gardens.
• Christ Church Melaka is a terra-cotta building leftover from the Dutch rule. Walk inside to see decorative plaques and wooden pews that are dedicated to different Dutch soldiers and rulers.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Malacca Historic City

• The COOLEST Hostel in Malacca Historic City → Ringos Foyer Guest House
• The BEST Hotel in Malacca Historic City → The Pines Melaka

#2 – Palau Redang Islands

• Restaurants are often attached to resorts
• Higher prices compared to other cities
• Perfect diving and snorkeling location

Only 45km away from Kuala Terengganu lies the beautiful islands of Pulau Redang. The main island of Redang is surrounded by several smaller islands, which are all protected by the Terengganu Marine Park.

The crystal waters are perfect for diving or snorkeling, which can be done directly off the shores! This relaxing island caters to travelers looking for a little more luxury on their vacation, since its home to many upscale resorts and restaurants.

• Diving is by far the most popular activity on the island thanks to the vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. There are numerous diving schools and equipment rental shops around.
• Marine Park Centre can be found on Pulau Pinang Island and offers visitors a glimpse into the research that is done to protect the marine ecosystem in Malaysia.
• Spa Treatments are the perfect way to relax on your vacation! Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just wanting to treat yourself, you’ll find some of the top spa facilities at the resorts.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Palau Redang Islands

• The BEST Hotel in Palau Redang Islands → The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort

#3 – Penang Hill

A very cool place in malaysia to go for a day.

• 130 million-year-old rainforest
• Can take the railway or hike to the top

Despite its name, Penang Hill is actually made up of several smaller hills which are homes to the last remaining rainforests in Penang. The top of the hill is over 800 meters above sea level, meaning it’s colder temperatures make it the perfect escape from the muggy, Malaysian heat! The view from the top of Penang Hill is breathtaking, and you’ll be able to see the peaks of Langkawai Mountains on a clear day.

• Penang Hill Railway is the world’s oldest funicular that takes you to the top of the hill. Although it crawls up the hill at a seemingly snail-like pace, you’ll see forests and historic bungalows on its 30-minute journey.
• Love Lock is an observation deck famously decorated with thousands of heart-shaped padlocks brought by lovers from all around the world. If you forgot yours, don’t worry! Padlocks can be purchased near the deck as well.
• The Curtis Crest Facility aims to inform its visitors about the conservation and protection initiatives put in place for Penang Hill. The facility also offers trails, walkways and zip lines through the rainforest for an extra fee.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Penang Hill

• The BEST Hotel in Penang Hill → Homestay by Penang Hill

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#4 – Kinabalu National Park

One of the most amazing places in malaysia.

• Home to the highest mountain in Southeast Asia
• Plenty of outdoor activities
• Several resorts and guesthouses for overnight stays

Located in northwest Sabah, Kinabalu National Park is centered around the towering Mount Kinabalu and is the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to over 5,000 different plant species, Kinabalu National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream! From hiking and rock climbing to paragliding and mountain biking, Kinabalu National Park has something for anyone looking for a breath of fresh air in the outdoors.

• Climbing Mount Kinabalu through the Mesilau trail will take roughly two days, and should be reserved for intermediate to advanced hikers. You’re required to go with a guide, where you’ll climb over 3,000 meters just on your first day!
• Poring Hot Springs will definitely soothe your aching muscles after spending the whole day hiking. The sulfurous pools are situated right in the jungle and attract locals as well as hikers and rock climbers.
• The Botanical Site is home to plants from four different climate zones, carnivorous plants, and over 1,000 species of orchids.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kinabalu National Park

• The COOLEST Hostel in Kinabalu National Park → Cozy Hostel
• The BEST Hotel in Kinabalu National Park → Lily’s Backpackers Cottage

#5 – Cameron Highlands

A beautiful outdoor place in malaysia.

• 2,000 meters high
• Many agricultural farms
• Sample teas and strawberries right from the farm

Cameron Highlands is home to some of Malaysia’s most fertile soil, making it the perfect location for fruit, vegetable and tea farms. Tea was originally grown on the hills by the British during the colonial rule, turning Cameron Highlands into the largest exporter of tea throughout Malaysia.

Cameron Highlands is the definition of farm to table cuisine, meaning you’ll taste some of the freshest produce that was most likely picked just that day. 

• Boh Sungai Palas Tea Estate is a sprawling plantation where you can see how the tea leaves are grown and harvested. The factory also has an on-site shop where you can purchase freshly picked tea to take home.
• Cactus Valley is a tranquil garden where you can admire the different cactus species that are native to Cameron Highlands. Besides cacti, the tiered gardens are also home to a variety of fruit and vegetable plants.
• Chai Kok Lim Strawberry Farm is one of the highlights of the Cameron Highland region. Grown hydroponically, the strawberries on the farm are sold fresh by the basket, or as a jam and ice cream!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Cameron Highlands

• The COOLEST Hostel in Cameron Highlands →  Traveller Bunker Hostel 1
• The BEST Hotel in Cameron Highlands → MY SWEETHUB HOMESTAY @ CAMERON HIGHLANDS

#6 – The Perhentian Islands

• Cluster of several islands
• Few sights besides beaches

To experience paradise at an affordable price, spend some time on the Perhentian Islands. Backpackers and young travelers will love the party scene on Kecil, while families and honeymooners will appreciate the calmer setting of Besar. The only way to hop between the islands is by boat, and there are no motorized vehicles allowed land, which makes for a very quiet and peaceful getaway.

Although there are very few monuments and major sights on the islands, you’ll still find plenty of water and beach activities to keep you entertained.

• Long Beach is the primary beach located on Kecil and is the place to go for busier restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Coral Bay is also located on Kecil but tends to be more laid-back and relaxed. You’ll also find amazing views of the sunset from this side of Kecil.
• Teluk Dalam is an isolated beach on Besar and has some of the cleanest, whitest sand in all of Malaysia. Love Beach is also located close to Teluk Dalam and is a popular hangout for visitors who want to socialize and have a couple of beers.
• Diving the Perhentian Islands is very popular, as the waters around the islands are part of a protected marine park. You’ll find plenty of dive schools and equipment rental shops scattered around both the main islands.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in The Perhentian Islands

• The COOLEST Hostel in The Perhentian Islands → Quiver Dive Team Perhentian Dorm
• The BEST Hotel in The Perhentian Islands → Tuna Bay Island Resort

#7 – Danum Valley

• Over 15,000 types of plants
• No human inhabitants or settlements

The conservation area of the Danum Valley is a vast and wild natural reserve that is home to over 400 kilometers of untouched forest. Leeches are everywhere, so if you’re planning to hike the valley, dress appropriately in sturdy hiking boots and leech socks!

• Orang Sungai is home to the ancient ruins of burial coffins that have been left by inhabitants that lived in the jungle centuries ago. Exploring the indigenous graveyards and coffin remains gives a rare glimpse into how these “river people” lived in the Danum Valley.
• A Night Safari gives visitors the unique opportunity to see the rainforest from a different angle. Take a guided tour by 4×4 where your guides will point out the native flora and ecological plants with just a flashlight.
• Canopy Walks take you on a journey 30 meters above the ground for the jaw-dropping bird’s eye view of the Danum Valley. You’ll need to climb up a wooden ladder to reach the canopy boardwalk, but the vantage point from the top is worth overcoming your fear of heights for!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Danum Valley

• The BEST Hotel in Danum Valley → Bike and Tours Bed and Breakfast

Further Reading – Have you seen our guide to the most underrated and amazing neighborhoods in Kuching?

#8 – Alor Setar

One of the most underrated places to see in malaysia.

• Few tourists
• Big city with several ancient temples and ruins

Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah and is a hidden capital city that is often overlooked by tourists. Just 55 km south from the popular city of Langkawi, Alor Setar has enough temples, museums, and galleries that can be explored over several days.

You’ll find the benefits of a bustling city like large hotels and restaurants, but also bits of history scattered around, like the 250 million-year-old Gunung Keirang hill .

• Zahir Mosque is a fascinating landmark that is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Malaysia. Built in 1912, the mosque is ornately decorated in white marble and lights up the night sky when the sun goes down.
• Alor Setar Tower is a communication tower where you can ride to the top for a picturesque view over the entire city. You’ll also find a revolving restaurant at the top if you’re feeling hungry!
• Menara Jam Besar is the yellow clock tower that overlooks the Zahir Mosque in the center of the city. Built in the early 1900s, the clock was designed to ring at the same time as the Zahir Mosque’s call to prayer.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar

• The COOLEST Hostel in Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar → Hostel Ah Wai
• The BEST Hotel in Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar → Royale Signature Hotel

#9 – Ipoh

• Cheap and tasty food
• Stunning limestone caves

Nestled in the middle of Perak State is Ipoh, a tourist-free city known for incredible colonial architecture and exotic temples and caves. The city was once run by the British during Perak’s tin mining period, which is reflected through the architecture of the town hall and main square in the center of the city.

The street food scene in Ipoh is also second to none, and you’ll find hundreds of restaurants and food stalls to keep you satisfied all day. If you’re looking to escape the bustling city to discover real Malaysian life, then you can also check the  best day trips from Kuala Lumper

• Ipoh Heritage Walk is a 6.5km trail around the city that leads you through some of the most important buildings and monuments that you can’t miss during your visit.
• Perak Tong is one of the 30 cave temples in Ipoh. After walking through the main entrance, you’ll climb into the giant limestone cave to find hidden grottoes and statues located in the crevices. There is even a gold, 12 meter Buddha peacefully sitting inside the cave!
• Tambun Cave is home to hundreds of ancient cave paintings that date back to almost 5000 years ago.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Ipoh

• The COOLEST Hostel in Ipoh → Mari Hostel
• The BEST Hotel in Ipoh → Royale Hotel

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#10 – Georgetown

A great place to see in malaysia if you love architecture.

• Colorful street art
• Old temples and mosques

Georgetown is the vibrant and almost frozen-in-time capital of Penang and Malaysia’s second largest city. The multicultural influences can be seen throughout the city center, from the colorful colonial dwellings to the traditional Chinese temples to the fusion of culinary delights served in the restaurants.

This UNESCO Heritage Site is a historical and cultural must-see that can’t be missed during your visit to Malaysia.

• The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a sprawling, Hakka-Teochew style hotel that has been famously painted a bright blue. Stay a night in this historic 1800s hotel, or take the one hour guided tour.
• Kapitan Keling Mosque is the largest mosque in Georgetown and is a pristine white building with glistening gold domes.
• Kek Lok Si Temple is Malaysia’s biggest Buddhist temple and is a complex of several prayer halls, monasteries, and lush gardens. The temple features a 30-meter high pagoda that is perched on the top of Air Itam.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si, Georgetown

• The COOLEST Hostel in Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si, Georgetown → Georgetown Residences
• The BEST Hotel in Buddhist temple Kek Lok Si, Georgetown → Mercure Penang Beach

Learn more about the cultural excellence of Georgetown!

#11 – Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

• Less developed islands
• Protected national park

The five islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park are just a short boat ride away from Kota Kinabalu, making it a quick getaway for a day or weekend trip. Spend your time on the two larger islands of Gaya and Manukan, or shuttle between the smaller islands for a more remote feel. Regardless of which island you choose to spend your time on, you’ll have miles of pristine beaches where you can bathe in the sun!

• Gaya Island is the largest island in the national park known for it’s dense, tropical rainforest.   Enjoy Gaya’s 20km of hiking trails, or stay overnight at one of the several luxurious 5-star resorts.
• Manukan Island is the local hangout hot spot with plenty of recreational facilities like swimming pools, sports courts, and multiple restaurants and clubhouses. The eastern side of the ideal is very ideal for diving.
• Mamutik Island may be the smallest island in the park, but it can be rented out if you’re looking for a private oasis! Mamutik is less than ideal for swimmers and snorkelers, as the beach is quite rocky and slippery.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park → Aru Place Kota Kinabalu

Recommended Reading: Check Out The Best Hostels in Kuala Lumpur

#12 – Kota Bharu

• Conservative Muslim City
• Day and night markets
• Cheap food stands

Situated on the northern tip of the Malaysian peninsula close to the Thai border, Kota Bharu is the place to experience a side of Malaysia that many visitors don’t often see. Kota Bharu is heavily influenced by its strong Islamic culture, which means you won’t see many western amenities like shopping malls or even bars.

Because it’s a socially conservative city, visitors will need to dress appropriately and behave respectfully when visiting Kota Bharu. However, you’ll find some of the most interesting markets and mosques that Malaysia has to offer.

• Pasar Besar is a giant, multi-level indoor market swarming with locals and city dwellers looking to purchase everything under the sun. You’ll find everything like fish, meat, produce, clothing, and electronics for sale.
• Istana Jahar was once the royal palace built in the 1800s. It has since been transformed into the Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs of Kelantan.
• The Handicraft Village and Craft Museum is a very affordable museum and shop selling locally made souvenirs like painted scarfs, woven blankets, and silver jewelry.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kota Bharu

• The COOLEST Hostel in Kota Bharu → Timur Guesthouse
• The BEST Hotel in Kota Bharu → Perdana Kota Bharu

#13 – Genting Highlands

Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Malaysia

• Tons of amusement parks and activities
• Several resorts
• Exciting rides and games for the whole family

Adventure enthusiasts absolutely cannot miss the exciting Genting Highlands! Feel free to unleash your inner child at the multiple indoor and outdoor theme parks, casinos, golf course, and other round the clock entertainment activities.

Genting Highlands is also perched on top of a mountain which can be accessed by cable car, making it an exclusive destination that the whole family can enjoy.

• Casino de Genting is Malaysia’s only casino. Open 24 hours a day, you’ll be able to hit the slots or play your hand at one of the card tables all night long.
• The Outdoor Theme Park on Genting Highlands is filled with extreme roller coasters and stomach-dropping rides that are sure to excite any thrill seeker.
• Snow World is a unique indoor theme park filled with cold snow where you can escape the Malaysian heat! Grab one of the sleds for a hill ride or play in the frosty igloos in this winter wonderland.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Genting Highlands

• The BEST Hotel in Genting Highlands → GeoSuites @ Geo38 Genting

#14 – Niah National Park

• Over 30km of caves and lush jungle
• Thought to be the birthplace of Malaysian civilization

Niah National Park is an outstanding destination that’s worth exploring during the day and at night. If you choose to stay overnight at one of the guesthouses, you’ll be able to explore the park after hours with just a headlamp and flashlight!

Although there are plenty of activities to do in the park, the Niah Caves are the biggest draw and was originally the site where 40,000-year-old human remains were discovered.

• Niah Caves are giant, awe-inspiring 1 meter high chambers that can be explored day or night. The sheer size of the limestone caves is unlike anything you’ll see in the world. If you look closely, you’ll also see cave paintings that are over 1,000 years old.
• Gan Kira is another popular large cave where many artifacts were excavated during the mid-1950s. Pottery, ornaments, and even a few burial sites were found in Gan Kira.
• The Niah Archaeology Museum contains plenty of information about the park’s history, as well as installations about the human remains and lifestyle of the ancient settlements.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Niah National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Niah National Park → Samalaju Resort Hotel

#15 – Langkawi

Great place to visit in malaysia for couples.

• Tons of restaurants and hotels for all budgets
• White sand beaches

Langkawi might be considered the most popular tropical destination in all of Malaysia. This archipelago is comprised of 99 islands is home to tons of resorts, restaurants, and beaches that are guaranteed to make your vacation a dream!

Although the islands are surrounded by crystal, turquoise waters, the islands themselves are covered in green jungles and lush paddy fields. If relaxation is high up on your list of things to do, then make Langkawi your home base for the week!

• Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125 meter long (and 700 meters high) pedestrian bridge that is sure to make your heart palpitate. The exhilarating walk across the steel bridge will give you a bird’s eye view of the Telara Tuju waterfalls and the breathtaking islands nearby.
• Gunung Raya is the highest peak at 881 meters tall. The challenging hike is worth the rewarding view at the top, perfect for catching a glimpse of the setting sun.
• Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum is an interactive art gallery dedicated to over 200 works of optical illusions.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Langkawi

• The COOLEST Hostel in Langkawi → Langkawi Dormitorio
• The BEST Hotel in Langkawi → The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi

#16 – Tioman Island

• Several secluded beaches
• Hiking trails around the whole island
• Beautiful snorkeling and diving spots

Spend a long weekend on the shores of Tioman Island, where you’ll enjoy stunning scenic views and laid-back beaches to help you unwind. Located in the South China Sea, the island caters mostly to Malaysian locals, which means many areas are virtually free from tourists so you can relax on the beach or by the pool in peace.

• Hike from Tekek to Juara to see the pure, green jungle of the island. The trail is fairly easy and is only 7km, but will lead you through dense, flourishing trees and plants between the towns of Tekek and Juara.
• Genting Village is a traditional Malaysian town that is still flooded with fishing boats and fisherman catching fresh seafood to sell to the markets later that day. If you come early enough, you’ll see them fishing directly off their boats!
• Air Batang, or known as ABC by the locals, is a village surrounded by gorgeous hiking trails. Whether you’re staying in Air Batang, or simply stopping by after a long hike, you’ll find several casual dining areas and shops.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Tioman island

• The BEST Hotel in Tioman island → X Rector Minsu

#17 – Gunung Mulu National Park

• 3,500 species of plants
• 295km of underground caves

The protected rainforest of Gunung Mulu National Park is unlike other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malaysia. Although you’ll find tropical plants and flowers like most other rainforests in the country, Gunung Mulu National Park is known for its dramatic limestone peaks and underground cave chambers.

There are three main mountains in the park, each with sharp protruding pinnacles that make for a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime view.

• Deer Cave is the world’s largest cave that is accessible to the public at over 2km long and 175km high. In the middle of the cave, you’ll see a natural break in the ceiling, which lets in sunlight and illuminates the darkness. In order to enter the cave, you’ll first need to walk through the beautiful, tropical rainforest, which is an attraction all on its own.
• Lang Cave is accessed after your walk from Deer Cave. Although it’s smaller than the other caves in the park, it’s illuminated by several holes in the caves that act as skylights so you can see the stalagmites and other structures inside.
• Wind Cave gets its name from the breeze that sweeps through the cave. From the inside, you’ll see hundreds of jaw-dropping stalagmites and limestone columns.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Gunung Mulu National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Gunung Mulu National Park → Mulu Marriott Resort

#18 – Kuching

One of malaysia’s coolest historical sites.

• Capital city of Sarawak
• Beautiful location on Sarawak river
• Learn about how indigenous groups lived

The bustling city of Kuching is a romantic meld of ancient and modern architecture and culture. Located in east Malaysia, Kuching sets out to educate visitors on the lifestyle of its indigenous inhabitants, and how Malaysians lived a hundred years back. Most of the main sites like temples and museums can be seen in a day, making Kuching an ideal trip to experience traditional Malaysia!

• The Kuching Waterfront offers a scenic view of the river, where tourists and young lovers can stroll hand in hand down the promenade. Small cafes and restaurants line the waterfront, and the view from the outdoor terraces cannot be beaten.
• Kuching Mosque was constructed in the mid-1800s and can be identified by its bright pink facade and shimmering gold domes.
• Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple is an ornate, arched shrine that dates back to the late 1700s. Admire the intricate wood carvings and the deep red paint on the temple roof. Due to the large Chinese community in Kuching, this temple is an important landmark for the city.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kuching

• The COOLEST Hostel in Kuching → Check In Lodge
• The BEST Hotel in Kuching → Hilton Kuching Hotel

#19 – Selangor

• The capital city of Sarawak
• Most developed and populated state

Located just outside Kuala Lumpur in Selangor, a tourist loved destination that’s home to many of Malaysia’s top attractions. Like most areas in Malaysia, Selangor is a mix of outdoor nature activities and urban city life, making it a central place to stay for a first-time visit.

Shopping addicts will love the plethora of malls and markets in the area, and families will enjoy the variety of activities and entertainment. After a long day walking around the city, don’t forget to get one of Selangor’s famous reflexology massages!

• i-City is Selangor’s top family attraction. Head for the indoor snow park, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel or roller coasters for a thrilling day of fun!
• Sepang International Circuit is a racetrack that is sure to fulfill any auto lover’s dream. Home to Malaysia’s Formula 1 events, the Sepang International Circuit also features go-karting and an automobile museum.
• Chiling Waterfalls is actually made up of three different waterfalls and can be reached by trail after hiking through the Selangor Dam. Definitely don’t miss the chance to swim in the crystal clear lagoons of the waterfall basins!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Selangor

• The COOLEST Hostel in Selangor → Suns Inn Hotel Kuala Selangor
• The BEST Hotel in Selangor → The One Boutique Hotel

#20 – Jalan Alor

A must-see for foodies.

• Foodie paradise
• Unique and traditional Malaysian dishes

The foodie destination of Malaysia can be found on Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur. Once known as the red light district, Jalan Alor has had a few facelifts over the years to increase its attraction with tourists. Although you won’t find fancy fusion or international cuisine here, you will be treated to some of the best hawker stalls and street food markets in the whole country.

Feel free to come by during the day, but definitely don’t miss the opportunity to visit in the evening, when Jalan Alor turns into a bustling night market. You won’t get most of these foods back home, so don’t be afraid to try something new on Jalan Alor!

• Restoran Wong Ah Wah serves up classic Malaysian satay skewers of juicy chicken, beef and lamb. This old school establishment is well known amongst locals and tourists alike.
• Uncle Lim Pan Mee makes some of the best noodle soups in Malaysia. Served with piping hot broth, you’ll slurp your way through one or two bowls easily!
• Beh Brothers may just be a small stall with plastic chairs in front, but don’t let the no-frill decor fool you. You’ll find very tasty and very affordable rice and drunken noodle bowls here.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Jalan Alor

• The BEST Hotel in Jalan Alor → The Bed KLCC

#21 – Batu Caves

• Over 400 million years old
• Temples are over 100 years old
• Several god Hindu statues and shrines

While limestone caves can be found all over Malaysia, the most popular site to visit these underground dwellings is at the Batu Caves. Consisting of three major caves, Batu Caves is a very religious site in Hindu culture and is home to multiple shrines and temples.

Not only will you have the chance to walk in the caves themselves, but you can also explore museums and art galleries on site. If you happen to visit during Thaipusam (January-February), you’ll see thousands of worshippers participating in a colorful procession for the Lord Muruga.

• Cathedral Cave is the largest and most ornate cave in Batu. After climbing a steep flight of over 200 steps, you’ll reach the top to see beautiful Hindu shrines under the 100 meters high caved ceiling.
• Ramayana Cave can be accessed after crossing a small bridge past the statue of Hanuman. This cave is vibrantly decorated in color dioramas telling the story of Ramayana.
• The Lord Muruga statue is a 42-meter tall golden statue that greets visitors as they enter the cave.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Batu Caves

• The BEST Hotel in Batu Caves → Villa Samadhi Kuala Lumpur – By Samadhi

#22 – Petaling Street

• Remodeled in 2003
• Traditional heritage buildings

Kuala Lumpur’s buzzing Chinese district can be found on Petaling Street. Walk through the grand Chinese arches and enter a chaotic Chinatown filled with affordable shops, tantalizing snacks, and traditional temples.

This pedestrianized shopping district is the perfect place to find counterfeit products, as long as you remember to haggle with the vendors for a better price! If you’re looking for cheap eats and good deals on souvenirs, then head down to Petaling Street for an exciting and memorable day.

• Shopping is by far the biggest draw in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. From sunglasses to clothing to handbags, you’ll find some of the biggest brand name knockoffs at reasonable prices. Don’t forget to bargain down to 20-30% of the original asking price.
• Central Market is a short walk from Petaling Street and is the best place to find goods that are higher quality than what you find at the hawker stalls. The building is over 100 years old, and products are separated by race, so you can see the differences in cultures.
• Street Food on Petaling Street is some of the tastiest food you’ll have in Malaysia. Local favorites include Asam Laksa and curry noodles.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Petaling Street ,Malaysia

• The COOLEST Hostel in Petaling Street ,Malaysia →  Mycozystay
• The BEST Hotel in Petaling Street ,Malaysia → Villa Samadhi Kuala Lumpur – By Samadhi

Editor’s note –   If you are going to stay in Penang, you should check out our article about Where to stay in Penang.

#23 – Pangkor Island

One of the more unique places to visit in malaysia.

• 3,000 locals live on the island
• Pangkor Town has restaurants and hotels
• Plenty of water sports and activities

Situated off the coast of Perak, Pangkor Island is home to miles and miles of white sandy beaches. Originally the home base of the Dutch during the Dutch East India Company, Pangkor Island is filled with several European influenced structures and buildings.

If you’re looking to explore what Pangkor has to offer, think about renting a scooter or motorbike, as they are affordable and can take you up the steep hills for the best viewpoints.

• Fu Link Kung Temple can be found at the bottom of Pangkor Hill near Sungai Pinang Besar. This Taoist temple is decorated in bright colors, and the gardens surrounding the temple include a mini Great Wall of China!
• Pangkor Hill Trek starts at Bogak beach and leads you up to Sungai Pinang Kecil. This is a fairly relaxing trail that should only take one or two hours during the day.
• Dindings Fort is a small Dutch fortress that was built during the 17th century. This monument was originally used to watch over the foreign ships that would steer past Pangkor.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Pangkor Island

• The BEST Hotel in Pangkor Island → Anjungan Beach Resort

#24 – Sipadan Island

• Award-winning dive spot
• Must stay on neighboring islands as there are no resorts

While there is no shortage of excellent diving spots in Malaysia, Sipadan Island might take the trophy for the most beautiful. You’ll have 13 different bays and spots to choose from, including the popular Hanging Gardens and Turtle Cavern.

The island was formed by corals that grew over an ancient volcanic cone, making it one of the richest marine ecosystems in the country. Although you’ll need to apply for a permit to visit Sipadan Island (120 are given out each day), the exclusivity and richness of the landscape is well worth the wait.

• Diving is clearly one of the best activities on Sipadan Island. Surrounded by hard and soft coral, you’ll have plenty to see in the crystal clear waters off the shores. Snorkeling is also possible for those without a diving permit.
• The Dropoff is located off the shores and can be dangerous if it’s unexpected! You’ll be wading in knee-high water before suddenly dropping 600 meters into the depths of the ocean.
• Stay on a Liveaboard for a unique accommodation experience while exploring Sipadan. These ships dock themselves close to the island and also offer onboard dining and massages.

#25 – Miri

• Bustling oil and petroleum town
• Tasty cafes and restaurants
• Markets for all types of goods

To some, Miri is just a gateway city that leads to Malaysia’s top attractions. However, this overlooked city in Sarawak is home to five outstanding national parks that should be explored on its own. The sunsets off the coasts of Miri are some of the most colorful and picturesque sights you’ll see on your entire Malaysian trip.

• The Blue Tears at Tusan Beach is one of Miri’s natural wonders. Come at night and see the glowing micro-organisms light up the water like shining stars in the night sky.
• Markets can be found all over Miri. If you’re looking for traditional Malaysian products, hit up Tamu Khas. For a taste of the local, regional dishes, don’t miss out on the Saberkas Weekend Night Market.
• The Petroleum Museum may not be the most exciting sight on your itinerary, but it pays homage to the booming industry that put Miri on the map. It’s located near the “Grand Old Lady” which was the first oil well built in the country.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Miri

• The COOLEST Hostel in Miri →  Villa Dadap Miri
• The BEST Hotel in Miri → Bay Resort Condominium

#26 – Taiping

An awesome place to visit in malaysia for half a day.

• Home of the first railway station in Malaysia

If you’re headed to northern Malaysia, don’t miss a stop over to the charming, historic town of Taiping. You’ll find some of the best-preserved architecture from the British colonial era, that can be seen by the pristine white facades of the government offices and boarding school in the area.

• The Taiping Lake Gardens was originally a tin mining ground, but was soon converted into a flourishing lakeside garden that’s covered in trees and bright colored tulips! There are also ten different ponds located around the gardens.
• The Perak Museum is the oldest museum in the whole country and was built in 1886. You’ll find photographs and exhibits highlighting the history of the town.
• Maxwell Hill is a small village known for receiving the highest percentage of rainfall in Malaysia. The 13k trek up the mountain is brimming with old bungalows and beautiful gardens, making the journey quite scenic.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Taiping

• The BEST Hotel in Taiping → Zen Retreat Taiping

Now that you’ve gotten the low down on Malaysia’s coolest landmarks, cities, and parks, you’ll have no problem building the most action-packed itinerary for your visit! We’re positive that you’re going to have a memorable and unforgettable time in Malaysia!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

T O BORROW from the poet Mary Oliver, what will you do with your few wild and precious vacation days? Now’s the time for figuring that out—and after looking at the latest travel trends, notable openings and immersive itineraries, we’ve got ideas. On this list of the 10 places we’re most excited about visiting this year, you’ll find spots still refreshingly free of tourist crowds but also new reasons to love the blockbuster destinations you thought you already knew. Whatever your preferred style of travel—from island-hopping by canoe in the Land of 10,000 Lakes to following your stomach around one of South America’s most exciting culinary hubs—we’re confident something here will unlock an urge to pack up and go.

The pandemic might have brought Belmond’s swanky Eastern & Oriental Express train to a temporary halt, but the luxury travel company used the downtime to refresh the train’s wood-paneled cabins with wickerwork and Malaysian embroidery, and brought Taiwanese chef André Chiang on board to steer restaurants that will feature a fusion of Southeast Asian cuisines. The train’s new routes, which launch in February, spotlight Malaysia’s wildly diverse landscapes. Excursions include Vespa tours around historic George Town, beach breaks on jungle-cloaked Langkawi island and treks in the rainforests of Taman Negara to spot hornbills, tapirs, and—for the very lucky—Malayan tigers. Fresh hotel openings in Kuala Lumpur, a food-mad city that just launched its first Michelin guide, make for an excellent excuse to linger before heading to the train station. Homegrown brand Else Retreats opened its first boutique hotel in the 1930s Lee Rubber Building in Chinatown, and the Park Hyatt will soon take over the top floors of Merdeka 118, the second-tallest tower in the world.

Lamu, Kenya

Kenya’s wildlife-rich safari parks remain its main draw, but new developments in Lamu, a palm-tufted island just off the country’s northeastern coast, offer sunseekers a pleasingly culture-packed and hushed alternative to the big-ticket resorts of Mombasa and Zanzibar. Global highfliers weathered the pandemic in the whitewashed luxury villas of Lamu’s ritzy Shela village, but the new Jannah Lamu, a scattered collection of suites by Kenya-raised designer Anna Trzebinski, makes the cobblestoned Old Town, East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlement, newly enticing. The recently launched NaiSabah, a traditional Omani dhow boat with three staterooms and a breezy deck decorated with intricate woodwork, offers multi-night itineraries around the Lamu archipelago, promising days packed with beach picnics, diving expeditions and nature walks. Finally, the Lamu Museum, which reopened last October after a year-long refurbishment, delivers a dose of cultural and historical context to this fascinating one-time trading hub—and a welcome respite from all that sunshine.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

The “Black Summer” bush fires of 2019-2020 destroyed half of its wildlife habitat, but in the years since, Kangaroo Island—9 miles off Australia’s southern coast—has bounced back. Nicknamed Australia’s Galápagos, this 1,700-square-mile speck of land is once again one of the best places to encounter wild koalas and kangaroos, along with penguins, whales, platypuses and wallabies. Two new lodges come staffed with seasoned guides who take the guesswork out of finding these creatures. Sea Dragon, a boutique hotel planted atop 250 acres of sea-facing land, reopened in 2023 with stargazing and bird-watching walks as well as new safari-style expeditions. Southern Ocean Lodge, which burned down entirely, reopened in December in a lair-like seacliff aerie, offering sunrise run-ins with wild sea lions and sunset sessions fueled by local wines and forest truffles. New trails on the island include a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the aptly named seaside granite formations of Remarkable Rocks and the first sections of the planned 23-mile-long Dudley Peninsula Trail, beginning at the historic Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.

Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, has long drawn in-the-know visitors from mainland Asia. But lately a supersize dose of new tourism projects has made its night markets, temples and onsen (hot springs) more widely accessible. Last year saw the opening of Hoshino Resorts’ budget-friendly OMO5 in the buzzy city of Kumamoto, as well as the glass-wrapped Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka. This year, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki opens in a former orphanage for atomic bomb survivors, and indie upstart Takasaki Stay allows for more-comfortable visits to the nearby, laid-back Goto Islands. Kyushu’s Tourism Organization also launches four new itineraries focusing on local cuisine, ceramics and nature. Densha otaku (train geeks) will celebrate a new 5-hour sightseeing route launching in spring and serving seasonal bento boxes alongside views of the hissing volcanoes and rocky coastlines between Fukuoka’s Hakata Station and Beppu, Japan’s seaside onsen hub.

Kansas City, Mo.

Given the zeitgeist, it would be understandable to think Kansas City made this list because of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. But the city was set to deliver the goods long before it became a fixture of gossip columns. CPKC Stadium, one of the few soccer stadiums in the world built for a top-division women’s team, the Kansas City Current, will open in March, doubling as a venue for concerts, festivals and farmers markets. In other athletic firsts, KC will host pickleball’s inaugural PickleCon in August, with 100 courts devoted to the unstoppable sporting fad. Rock Island Bridge, a waterfront highline, will soon connect Kansas and Missouri with a string of bars and cafes. The outdoors-oriented will also be able to canoe or kayak in the Kansas River below. Pennway Point, a downtown entertainment district opening this spring, will feature a beer garden, a BBQ joint, live music and a Ferris wheel. Those looking for the city’s famous smoked meat and jazz can rest easy that even under the celebrity spotlight, the soul of the city remains intact.

Prague, Czech Republic

“Prague never lets you go. This dear little mother has sharp claws,” wrote Franz Kafka. And, judging by the tourist numbers, those claws have reach. This year ushers in a new reason, however, to visit the much-loved city. Kafka’s hometown is marking the 100th anniversary of the Czech-born, German-speaking Jewish writer’s death with events across the city. Beginning in March, Prague City Tourism will offer literary walking tours, and a vintage tram will carry bibliophiles to sites where the author lived and worked. In May, the Museum of Czech Literature unveils a new exhibition featuring multimedia installations, letters written by the author and early editions of his books. All summer, the Jewish Museum will host Kafka-focused film screenings in Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish quarter, while a mobile app called “Searching for Odradek,” a reference to a Kafka protagonist, will help re-create the Prague Kafka knew. Finally, the Goethe-Institut, a German cultural center, will be putting on a string of readings and theatrical productions. And when the Kafkaesque existential dread gets to be too much, the city’s legendary pubs await.

Quintana Roo, Mexico

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula may be dismissed by some as a haven for spring breakers, but this year brings proof that there’s much more to the state of Quintana Roo than all-inclusive resorts. SHA Wellness Clinic, known for specialized longevity treatments, opens a branch this month in the town of Costa Mujeres. Architect Fabiano Continanza designed the slopes and spirals of the retreat’s building as a nod to the shape of the DNA molecule. An hour south, the Riviera Maya Edition hotel at Kanai just opened in a 620-acre nature reserve, its neutral-hued décor suggesting a sense of urban cool teleported deep into the jungle. Last month’s ribbon-cutting of a new airport in Tulum adds more fuel to that town’s decadeslong boom, but its quiet side still thrives at new boutique sites like XELA Tulum, a once-private villa renovated into a minimalist hotel. Near the border with Belize sits Bacalar, a diminutive town hugging a 26-mile-long translucent lagoon. Big chains like Banyan Tree have announced plans to move in soon, so get there before they do and check in to the new Boca de Agua hotel, crafted by Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped to design a forthcoming contemporary art wing at New York’s MoMA.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

In Buenos Aires, an often-lauded culinary scene is shining brighter than ever. The neighborhood of Belgrano presents a handy introduction to two core elements of daily life in Argentina: fútbol and meat. After a match at El Monumental, South America’s largest stadium, dine at Corte Comedor’s modern parrilla (or grill) with hard-to-find cuts of beef, succulent veggies and charcuterie from sister spot Corte Charcuteria. In the art-gallery-packed neighborhood of Villa Crespo, head to Chuí, which offers a surprisingly varied plant-based menu, or Julia, a 22-seater specializing in colorful French-leaning fare. In Chacarita, try the newcomer Ácido, which takes inspiration for its menu—plus its delightfully kitschy china—from grandmothers everywhere. At MN Santa Inés, in the low-key barrio of La Paternal, chef Jazmín Marturet plays with recipes developed during trips to Asia and Latin America. And for travelers who follow the stars, the grand finale awaits at the art-on-a-plate adventure on offer at Aramburu, granted two Michelin stars in November. Buen provecho.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minn.

You can still drink straight from many of the 1,200 lakes in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, the million-acre liquid maze just shy of the Canadian border. Often navigated via multiday canoe camping trips, this boreal wilderness grants its 250,000 annual visitors time on solid ground, too, in rustic lodges and on extensive island hiking trails. With mining interests eyeing the region, every tourist visit this year plays a pivotal role in the area’s conservation. Start yours with a drive along the Gunflint Trail, a 57-mile national scenic byway leading to the Boundary Waters. At midpoint, grab a cardamom roll from Loon’s Nest Coffee, opened in the fall of 2023, before joining a guided paddle with one of the many locally run outfitters. Come nightfall, check in to the freshly updated Gunflint Lodge, or upgrade your campsite with a mobile sauna delivered to your patch of woods by spa operators Sisu + Löyly. In the morning, wake up with the loons—and dunk your cup straight into the deep-blue water to hydrate.

Balearic Islands, Spain

Spain’s Balearic Islands are ditching their dance-all-night rep for something more Zen. Think fewer foam parties, more meditation circles. Ibiza, once synonymous with shot-slinging nights, now appeals to mindfulness mavens, a metamorphosis on full display at the Mirador de Dalt Vila, a Relais & Châteaux hotel aimed squarely at relaxers, not ravers. In Mallorca, Richard Branson’s new Son Bunyola hotel ditches the island’s DJ parties in favor of scenic cycling and languorous afternoons in the 92-foot-long pool. Rafael Nadal’s ZEL hotel beckons with a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Basque fare and a pro-approved gym. On the island of Minorca, protected status keeps a short leash on development, so newcomers focus on renewing existing properties rather than bulldozing and building. Take the island’s latest outpost, Son Vell, an 18th-century Venetian-style manor turned into a 34-room hotel featuring yoga classes, al fresco movie screenings and, best of all, not a thumping bass line within earshot.

Contributors: Kiera Carter (Kansas City), David Farley (Prague), Adam H. Graham (Kangaroo Island and Kyushu), Jacqueline Kehoe (Boundary Waters), Jordi-Lippe-McGraw (Balearic Islands), Suchi Rudra (Buenos Aires), Chris Schalkx (Malaysia and Lamu) and Michaela Trimble (Quintana Roo)

Indonesia evacuating thousands after volcano erupts, as tsunami fear looms

Indonesian rescuers have raced to evacuate thousands of people after a volcano erupted five times, forcing authorities to close a nearby airport and issue a warning that the crater collapsing into the sea could cause a tsunami.

Mount Ruang's crater flamed with lava against a backdrop of lightning bolts overnight after eruptions pushed an ash column more than a mile into the sky and forced authorities to raise their alert to the highest level of a four-tiered system.

Taka, a local fisherman who only gave one name, was at sea helping people to safety by boat when the crater unleashed a fiery orange column.

"There was a mix of fire and rocks. Lava flowed in various directions," he told AFP.

The volcano sits on a remote island in Indonesia's outermost region and has a peak 725 metres above sea level. It was still billowing a column of smoke up to 800 metres high on Thursday morning, officials said.

Houses on Tagulandang, another remote island nearby, were riddled with holes from falling volcanic rocks on Thursday, rescuers said, and residents were preparing to leave at least temporarily.

"The road condition … is covered by volcanic material," rescuer Ikram Al Ulah told AFP by phone from the Tagulandang seaport.

"Many people are still wandering around. Maybe to evacuate precious goods from their house."

There were no reports of deaths or injuries but authorities said they were rushing to evacuate more than 11,000 residents from the area around Tagulandang, which is home to about 20,000 people.

Residents and tourists evacuated 

Tourists and residents were warned to remain outside a 6 kilometre exclusion zone.

Some residents were already trying to flee in a panic, according to officials.

"People evacuated on their own … due to the volcano's eruption and small rocks that fell," local search and rescue agency official Jandry Paendong said in a statement on Thursday.

"The people scattered to find evacuation routes."

He said 20 staff were helping evacuate residents along the coastline near the volcano on rubber boats.

Authorities also evacuated a prison on Tagulandang, ferrying 17 inmates along with 11 officials and 19 residents by boat to Likupang seaport in northern Sulawesi island, according to rescuer Ikram Al Ulah.

More than 800 people were initially taken from Ruang to Tagulandang after the first eruptions overnight Tuesday, before further eruptions on Wednesday prompted evacuations from that wider zone.

Those displaced gathered at temporary shelters on Tagulandang and were given mats, blankets and masks by authorities.

The navy sent a warship to deliver aid and help the evacuation effort, it said on Thursday, while North Sulawesi police sent dozens of officers.

The warship evacuated 195 people from Tagulandang to Bitung, a coastal city in North Sulawesi, on Thursday evening, a navy spokesperson told AFP.

Tsunami warning

Authorities also warned of a possible tsunami as a result of the eruptions.

"The communities in Tagulandang island [need] to be on alert for … [a] tsunami caused by the collapse of the volcano's body into the sea," volcanology agency head Hendra Gunawan said in a statement on Wednesday.

The authorities' fears were compounded by previous experience.

The crater of Mount Anak Krakatoa between Java and Sumatra islands partly collapsed in 2018 when a major eruption sent huge chunks of the volcano sliding into the ocean, triggering a tsunami that killed more than 400 people and injured thousands.

Indonesia, a vast archipelago nation, experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire".

Mount Ruang's eruption led to the closure of Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado city, located more than 100 kilometres from the volcano, until midnight Thursday.

The airport hosts airlines that fly to Singapore, South Korea and China.

Budget airline AirAsia said it also cancelled flights to and from nine airports in eastern Malaysia and Brunei until Friday morning.

The volcano's last major eruption was in 2002, also requiring the evacuation of residents.

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• Disasters, Accidents and Emergency Incidents
• Environment
• Human Interest
• Volcanic Eruptions