unusual place to visit in malaysia

Exploring Malaysia: 20 Best Places and Most Unique Experiences

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

Malaysia Map

Best Cities to Discover in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover Chinatown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the History and Culture of Penang

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Penang

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by road takes 2 hour s .

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

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

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

Discover Ipoh’s Street Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson

Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson by road takes 90 minutes.

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

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

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

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

Exploring Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

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

Words and Images by Travel Scribes.

Kuala Lumpur to Melaka by road takes 2 hour s .

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

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

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

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

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

Exploring the City of Melaka

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Dive Into Malaysia.

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

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

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

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

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

Cycling through the Paddy Fields

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words and images by Living Out Lau.

Best Cities to Discover in Borneo

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

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

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

See Orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Eating out in Kuching

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

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

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

Words and images by Rambling Feet.

Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

What was the weather like?

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

Words by No Hurry To Get Home.

Best Islands to Discover in Malaysia

Pangkor island.

Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor by road takes 4 hours

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

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

Discover the Delights of Pangkor Island

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

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

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

Getting to Pangkor Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Worldwide Walkers.

Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover the Underwater World in the Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

What is the weather like in the Perhentian Islands?

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

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

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

Words and images by Stingy Nomads.

Langkawi Island

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

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

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

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

Ride the cable car

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Go Around Philippines .

Kapas Island

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

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

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

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

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

Camping on the Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Chur New Zealand .

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

Discover Paradise in the Tioman Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Guide Your Travel .

Best Experiences to Discover in Malaysia

Visiting the cameron highlands.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walking through the Tea Plantations

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

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

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

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

Diving in Sipadan, Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

Discover the Underwater World of Sipadan

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

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

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

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

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

Words by The Very Hungry Mermaid .

Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunrise on Mount Kinabalu’s Summit

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

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

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

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

Words by Josie Wanders.

Jungle Camping in the Kiulu Valley, Borneo

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

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

Discovering Life in the Jungle

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

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

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

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

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

Words by DelhiFunDos.

Best Wildlife Encounters in Malaysia

Deramakot forest reserve, borneo.

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

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

Discover the Wildlife in Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deramakot Forest Accommodation

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

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

Words by The Wildlife Diaries.

Kinabatangan River, Borneo

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

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

Discover the Wild Pygmy Elephants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Danum Valley, Borneo

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

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

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

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

Rainforest Accommodation

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

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

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

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

Jungle Trekking in Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

Words by Travel Collecting.

Please Pin for Future Travel to Malaysia

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

Kwai Chai Hong: Beautiful Art Murals in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Discover Penang in 3-nights

Is Penang Street Art Still Worth Seeing In 2024?

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

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

Blue Mansion Penang Review: Cheong Fatt Tze

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

Best Ipoh Itinerary For 2 Days + Cave Temples

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

Gua Tempurung: Explore the Limestone Cave in Perak, Malaysia

Sepilok Orangutans: Ultimate Bucketlist Orangutan Experience in Borneo

7 Best Places to See Orangutans in the Wild

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

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

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Wednesday 17th of March 2021

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

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

Ambica Gulati

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

Chloe Beaver

Tuesday 16th of March 2021

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

WhereAngieWanders

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

Ummi Nadrah

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

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

9 of the best places to go in Malaysia

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Encounter pristine nature in Gunung Mulu National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kuching is the perfect urban-jungle mash-up

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

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

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

Pulau Perhentian are the best islands for sunshine and snorkeling

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

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

Melaka is a cultural smorgasbord 

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

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

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

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

Take refreshing upland hikes in the Cameron Highlands

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

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

Ipoh is Malaysia's best unsung destination

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

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

Tioman Island is the best place to unwind

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

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

This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024

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The 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Malaysia

Wondering where to go in Malaysia? With its diverse landscapes, culture and activities, it can be hard to know where to start. If that’s the case for you, try our guide to the country’s most beautiful places to visit. From walking around Unesco-listed historical marvels to exploring 130-million-year-old jungle, you’ll always have plenty of things to see and do in Malaysia .

1. malacca city, malacca.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

2. George Town, Penang

3. The Perhentians, Terengganu

Natural Feature

The Perhentian Islands are a small archipelago in the South China Sea off the coast of Terengganu. They are consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful places in Malaysia. The region is comprised of seven islands in total, five of which remain uninhabited; the other two are named Besar and Kecil. If you fancy holidaying there, picture white sand stretching around sparsely populated areas, while crystal-clear water laps against the shore. Favourite activities include scuba diving, snorkelling and canoeing. Avoid coming between March and October though, as that’s when most hotels and guesthouses close.

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5. Alor Setar, Kedah

Most who visit the state of Kedah spend their time in Langkawi. But, approximately 34mi (55km) southeast of the popular island sits an unexplored city called Alor Setar . The central square features the intricate Zahir Mosque, the Big Clock Building, the Royal Hall and the Sultan Museum. A little further afield, you can visit the 218m (715ft) and 250 million-year-old Gunung Keriang limestone hill. Head to nearby Kuala Kedah and walk through the ruins of a 17th-century Malay fort, the oldest in Northern Malaysia.

6. Kota Kinabalu

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark, Mosque

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, might not appear beautiful at first. However, behind the malls and buildings lie stretches of orange sand, islands reachable within 10 minutes, and the iconic floating mosque. Head to Tanjung Aru Beach for a spectacular sunset, or stroll along Likas Bay to marvel at the coast and islands. The five islands, known as Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, are a brilliant day trip for snorkelling, beaches and relaxation. Drive a short distance from the city and find untouched jungle.

7. Ipoh, Perak

Ipoh is fast becoming an obvious answer to the question of where to go in Malaysia. The historical core consists of colonial buildings and traditional shophouses, while a plethora of Buddhist and Hindu cave temples surround the city. Kellie’s Castle, an incomplete former colonial mansion, is a short drive from the city too.

8. The Cameron Highlands, Pahang

British surveyor, William Cameron, discovered the Cameron Highlands in 1885 and it has only grown since as a tourist hotspot. Today, emerald green tea plantations dominate the skyline, along with strawberry and vegetable farms. If you plan on going, you’ll almost definitely enjoy the cooler climate and the opportunities to go hiking.

9. Pangkor Island, Perak

10. Pulau Tioman, Pahang

Back in the ’70s, Time Magazine mentioned Pulau Tioman as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Little has changed since then. With untouched beaches and dense rainforest, the island offers a more secluded feel than the likes of Langkawi. Favourite activities include snorkelling and scuba diving. There’s also trekking in the jungle, touring the island on a motorbike or bicycle, and plenty of opportunities to see gorgeous waterfalls.

11. Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur

Shopping Mall, Architectural Landmark

You can’t visit Kuala Lumpur without visiting Bukit Bintang. Cosmopolitan yet local, commercial yet cultural, the neighbourhood of Bukit Bintang is buzzing with activity. During the day, you’ll want to visit Pasar Seni, a popular handicrafts market, as well as Kasturi Walk, a covered walkway with vendors selling local delicacies. Once the sun sets, head over to Changkat Bukit Bintang for the real fun, where an obedient row of colonial-style shophouses have been converted into boisterous pubs, bars and cafes. Recommended by Michelle Leong .

12. Pulau Langkawi, Kedah

Also known as the ‘Jewel of Kedah,’ Langkawi is one of those places which even Malaysians visit (and Malaysians are a thrifty lot). Pristine white sand meets gentle ocean waves at Cenang Beach, which is long enough to mean you won’t feel crowded in with other travelers. As long as you’re prepared to pay a fee, the Langkawi Cable Car also offers a majestic and sweeping view of the island. Recommended by Michelle Leong.

13. Mulu World Heritage Area, Sarawak

If you want proof of Mother Nature’s blessings, this is the place to see it. Sheer limestone cliffs rise like the tower(s) of Sauron over the quiet, verdure, unsuspecting rainforest. The two caves — Deer Cave and Clearwater Cave — are massive with an array of natural limestone formations and sleeping bats. Small waterfalls offer a refreshing view while making your way through the forest. Sounds like paradise? Wait until you see it in person. Recommended by Michelle Leong.

14. Talang-Satang National Park, Sarawak

This marine protected area encompasses four islands, three of which are known as the ‘turtle islands’. The clear waters and shallow coral reefs are ideal for expectant turtle mothers, who come ashore between July and October to nest . Giant green turtles account for 90% of turtle landings here, but if you’re lucky you’ll also spot a hawksbill turtle making her slow ascent towards her nesting spot. Recommended by Michelle Leong.

15. Johor Bahru, Johor

It’s been said that Singaporeans love Johor Bahru — but it’s not just because the currency is a good deal in their favor. It’s because of the banana cakes at Hiap Joo Bakery, the lovely stretch of fine sand at Desaru Beach, and the laid-back culture of Johorians. Recent years have seen quaint boutique cafés mushrooming up all around town, particularly along the Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street. Night markets are also a big draw . Recommended by Michelle Leong.

16. Kuching, Sarawak

Park, Natural Feature

‘Kuching’ literally means cats. That’s right — Sarawak’s capital city is named after furry domestic felines, who dominate the city in the form of numerous strategic sculptures. But there’s more than just cats to look at here. You can explore history at the Fort Margherita, discover religious culture at Tua Pek Kong Temple, and say hello to the proboscis monkeys at Bako National Park . Recommended by Michelle Leong.

17. Lambir Hills National Park

Experienced hikers will enjoy the challenge of Lambir Hills. Selected parts of the journey offer hiking aids like handlebars and wooden steps – but even this convenience doesn’t beset the steep climb at the final part of the hike, towards the top of Bukit Lambir. Waterfalls abound, birds are aplenty and trekking trails fork several ways. Bring water, snacks and a towel if you’re likely to sweat. Recommended by Michelle Leong.

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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

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#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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• 15 Unique Things To Do In Malaysia

Offbeat Things to Do in Malaysia

Here is the list of unique things to do in malaysia:, quick navigation, adopt a baby orangutan.

Visit the Niah Caves in Sarawak

Best of Thailand

Seek Blessings at Thai Temples

Visit the Snake Temple

Best of Bangkok

Explore the BOH Tea Garden and Factory

Feel Religious at Crystal Mosque

Best of Vietnam

Visit the Amazing Kuching Cat Museum

Have Fun at Bamboo Playhouse

Best of Singapore

Dine at Dining in the Dark

When it comes to doing offbeat things to do in Malaysia, no other experience can beat dining in total darkness in one of the most remarkable restaurants in the country - Dining in the Dark. The restaurant is located in the bustling entertainment street of Kuala Lumpur. The focus in this restaurant is on the taste, texture and aromas of the food instead of the appearance, which creates a different sensation when you are eating it. It is the perfect place in Malaysia for adventurous foodies.  Location: 50A, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia  Timing: Tuesday to Sunday (6:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.) 

Merdeka Square Flagpole

The Merdeka Square Flagpole is one of the most recognizable structures in Malaysia. It is located in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur is the bustling Merdeka Square that is surrounded by other impressive high-rise buildings. The flagpole itself is 311 feet tall and is one of the tallest of its kind in the world. This is the spot where originally, the Union Flag was replaced by the Malaysian Flag to signify independence, and visiting and exploring this structure is one of the most interesting and offbeat things to do in Malaysia. Location: Jalan Raja, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Best of Hong Kong

Explore Royal Malaysian Police Museum

See Gomantong Caves

Best of Kuala Lumpur

Visit Hang Jebat Mausoleum

Tua Pek Kong Temple

Best of Langkawi

People Also Ask About Malaysia

Which are the best things to do in malaysia.

1. Climb the Petronius Towers in Kuala Lumpur:  One of the most unique things to do in Malaysia includes catching a view of the capital city from the observation deck on top of Petronius Towers. These are the tallest twin towers in the world with restaurants, skywalks, spas and other amenities as part of the experience.  2. Go island hopping in Langkawi:  Langkawi is one of the most beautiful international tourist destinations and island hopping on these white-sand islands is amongst some of the best offbeat things to do in Malaysia. You can play water sports, go scuba diving, kayaking and sunbathe on the private beaches on these islands.  3. Street food tour:  The street food of Malaysia is world-famous, known for its sweets and spices and meat preparations that you can sample in many cities including Kuala Lumpur. Make sure you try local delicacies such as Nasi lemak, laksa, Lok-Lok and other traditional delicacies.  4. Watersports at Perhentian Islands:  The Perhentian Islands is an exclusive holiday destination in Malaysia where you can swim in oceans where the water is so clear that you can see the ocean floor. It is one of the most premium destinations in the world for scuba diving and snorkelling and nightlife. 

Which are the best places to visit in Malaysia?

1. Kuala Lumpur:  Some of the most unique things to do in Malaysia can be found in Kuala Lumpur - the capital city. The city has the tallest twin towers in the world, the best nightclubs and restaurants, a vibrant culture and ancient forts and temples for you to explore.  2. Penang:  Penang is the centre of all culture and spirituality in Malaysia. There are some beautiful temples, famous street food neighbourhoods and Georgetown, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 3. Langkawi:  If you are looking for the luxe tropical islands experience on a budget, then you can head to Langkawi. His collection of islands offers some of the most beautiful beaches in South-East Asia, a happening night scene, a wide range of water sports for you to enjoy and watch sunsets.  4. Malacca:  Malacca is a colourful, historical town in Malaysia that has been awarded the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are colourful murals on the walls of the buildings, street food corners, shopping centres and other activities that you can enjoy in this quaint little village. 

What is the famous food in Malaysia?

What is malaysia known for, what is the best time to visit malaysia, how to reach malaysia.

Malaysia Top Attractions

A ride on a cable car takes tourists to Langkawi Sky Bridge - a true highlight of the region, elevated at a height of 2300 feet above sea level. From the top of this bridge, the mesmerising views of the rainforest along with the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls make sure to leave visitors spellbound.It attracts nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here, tourists can also indulge in some shopping at the number of stalls that sell souvenirs, toys, drinks, and snacks. The bridge certainly is one of the top Langkawi tourist attractions.Location: At the end of the cable car, alan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau, Langkawi, KedahTimings: 10 am to 10 pmClick Here to Book: Langkawi Cable Car TicketsAlso Read: Things to Do in LangkawiClick Here to book Petrosains Tickets

Dataran Lang, known as eagle square is yet another commonly visited destination amongst many other famous Langkawi places to visit. It has gained popularity for holding the huge sculpture of an eagle, which is considered to be one of the best manmade creations in Langkawi. The statue of the eagle is postured like it is ready to fly and can be spotted from various points in Pulau. To see this 12 meters statue, along with the views of Kuah Bay, tourists have to ride on a ferry.The miniature terraces, footbridges, fountains, eateries all together here make this place apt for a fun-filled day visit trip, enjoyable by all age groups. From eagle square, the view of numerous ferries plying in the ocean has also been appreciated by everybody who has ever visited!Location: Southeast corner of Pulau Langkawi, Kuah JettyTimings: 24 hours a day, every dayAlso Checkout & Book: Petronas Towers TicketsPopular Read: Things to Do in Langkawi

As one decides to simply stroll through the paths of Langkawi wildlife park and bird paradise, indigenous birds meet along the way. For a closer look, tourists can visit the large enclosed bird-rooms where these numerous species stretch their wings and offer a chance for greater interaction. This would be one of the best tourist places in Langkawi.The park offers services of a guide which tourists can take for better understanding of the park’s wildlife, animals - their habits, patterns, diversity, etc. Here, tourists can buy food for the animals and feed them too!Location: Lot 1485, Jalan Ayer Hangat, Kampung Belanga Pecah, KedahTimings: 8;30 am to 6 pm on all daysSuggested For You: Places to Visit in MalaysiaClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park TicketsClick Here to Book: Langkawi Wildlife Park Tickets

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Beautiful tea fields in Cameron Highlands

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

Crystal clear water at Perhentian Island

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

Perfect beach holiday at Langkawi Island

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

Jungle adventures at Taman Negara

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

Boat exploration at Lake Kenyir

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

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Peninsular East Coast

• Lang Tengah

Peninsular West Coast

• Pulau Payar
• Layang Layang
• Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
• Johor Bahru
• Kuala Terengganu
• Kuala Lumpur
• Kota Kinabalu

Places to visit

• Cameron Highlands
• Danum Valley
• Elephant Sanctuaries
• Endou Rompin National Park
• Genting Highlands
• Gomantong Caves
• Kinabatangan River
• Kuala Selangor Fireflies
• Lake Kenyir
• Mount Kinabalu
• Mulu National Park
• Niah Caves Park
• Orangutan Sanctuaries
• Port Dickson
• Royal Belum State Park
• Taman Negara
• Turtle Island
• Bako National Park

Top 5 Wildlife Destinations in Malaysia

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

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

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

1. Taman Negara Tropical Rainforest

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

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

2. Mount Kinabalu in Kinabalu Park

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

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

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

3. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

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

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

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

4. Mossy Forest in the Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

5. Similajau National Park

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

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

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

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

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8 unique places to visit in Malaysia that'll make you forget about Kuala Lumpur

You don't have to go far to get away.

Just across the causeway, these Malaysian cities make for unconventional vacays.

1. GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARK

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Known for its majestic karth features, the forest of razor-sharp linestone spires in particular, there’s more beauty than meets the eye at Gunung Mulu National Park .

Beneath, climb through mosaically nature-studded caves, tropical rainforests, waterfalls and more. A variety of tours cater to different levels of climbers and trekkers; a tour to the summit usually takes about four days.

2. KUALA SELANGOR

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Less than an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, the quiet fishing village of Kuala Selangor’s best-kept secret is its Firefly Park Resort , which is home to one of the biggest firefly colonies in the world.

As dusk settles in, take a boat out to the mangroves to witness the visual symphony of millions of fireflies lit up around the trees – some even in synchrony! Magical.

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Take a whiff of this city brimming with culture at every turn of the street, with shophouses, heritage restaurants and local amenities lining the streets.

Ipoh is known far and wide for her food, and that aside, there’s tons to do as well.

Got kids? They’ll love the Lost World of Tambun water theme park. Or explore the temples and museums for a blast from the past of this charismatic old town.

4. BANJARAN HOT SPRINGS

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And just a short travel from Ipoh, amidst 260 million-year old limestone hills, cascading waterfalls and tropical rainforests, the Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat is a luxurious, reinvigorating wellness retreat.

Here, 3 million litres of water billow up daily from the ground below; also within the resort are a crystal cave for metaphysical healing, a pampering spa and wellness centre and more.

5. LANGKAWI

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Or take to other waters in Langkawi, an island off the coast of northwestern Malaysia.

Blue waters and white-sand beaches circle expansive parks on this vibrant beach destination that promises an intimate escape back to nature.

Take a jetski tour to explore the waters, trek through the verdant rainforests or simply lounge your day away by the beach.

6. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

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The hilly highlands are blanketed in green at this beautiful, naturesque getaway destination.

Take in the view at the tea plantations, pick fresh strawberries (and eat them on the spot!) at the fruit farms.

When night falls, take delight in street food and bits and bobs at the Pasar Malam (literally meaning “night market” in Malay) in the region’s Brinchang Town.

7. BUKIT TINGGI

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This French-themed holiday village sits on natural forestland some 800 metres above sea level. Which, first of all, means: cool weather!

With the caress of the cooling breeze as you stroll through the resort, it’s not hard to imagine yourself as holidaying in a European countryside – perfect for bringing life back to the weary traveller.

8. KOTA KINABALU

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Kota Kinabalu is an increasingly popular holiday destination thanks to its proximity to tropical islands and of course, Mount Kinabalu , the highest mountain in Southeast Asia.

But Kota Kinabalu is worth a visit in its own right – surely apparent through the community of expats who choose to call this place home.

Over 30 ethnic groups make up the city’s cultural DNA, best explored through its attractions, cuisines and people.

This article was first published in The Finder.

• Kuala Lumpur

67 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur

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One of the things that make Kuala Lumpur so special is the diverse mix of cultures that call the Garden City of Lights home. With so many things to do in Kuala Lumpur , set aside a few days to discover Malaysia’s capital city.

You’ll notice its melting pot of different ethnic backgrounds, with evidence of this in all facets of the city, from the street food to the varying districts, like Chinatown and Little India. Speaking of, foodies take note — KL is a culinary extravaganza!

Enjoy sunset hour at a stylish rooftop bar, shop the local markets and scout the city’s crazy-cool street art scene. Revel in the views from its most-famed skyscrapers, like the Petronas Twin Towers.

Surrounded by lush trees and natural rainforests, even though Kuala Lumpur is a bustling city, feel at peace among all its greenery. Escape the hustle at one of the many parks, like the Perdana Botanical Garden.

Looking for more things to do in Kuala Lumpur outdoors? Heading just outside KL, venture to the hillsides and take in the countryside landscapes around the Genting Highlands. It leaves much for travelers to explore and discover!

1 – Explore 14 different types of gardens at Perdana Botanical Garden

One for the nature-enthusiasts or anyone looking for a zen moment among the florals, the Perdana Botanical Garden (also known as the Lake Gardens) is an ideal spot to unwind from the city buzz.

Visit an entire area dedicated to the country’s national flower at the Hibiscus Garden… waterfall included! Or, if Orchids are your favorite, head to the Orchid Garden.

Enjoy a romantic picnic around the lake and Cycade Island, and learn about uncommon fruits at the Lesser Fruit Tree Collection.

A perfect place to spend the afternoon wandering through the different green spaces, take a segway tour around the botanical gardens. This way, you can make the most out of your time and have the chance to check out every inch of the gardens.

Other must-see features are the Sunken Gardens, Forest Tree Collection, and the Herbarium.

• Perdana Botanical Garden tour

2 – See the views from Kuala Lumpur Tower

Did you know that the Kuala Lumpur Tower, also known as the KL Tower, is the World Base-jump Centre?

Apart from the adrenaline-seeking adventures and panoramic city views from 276 meters high, there are other things to do.

Built in the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, you can visit the original rainforest via a canopy walk, and the tower also features a small aquarium with exotic fish, as well as a mini zoo.

From ground level, take an elevator ride up to the Skydeck featuring a transparent glass box on the edge for photo-ops … It literally looks like you’re standing over the whole of KL!

You can also take in 360-degree city views from the Observation Deck located a few floors below the Skydeck, followed by a magical dinner at the revolving restaurant aptly named ATMOSPHERE 360.

Travel Tip: Arrive early on in the day to avoid the mega crowds.

• Kuala Lumpur Tower tickets

3 – Shop for local souvenirs at the iconic Central Market

Located right near Petaling Street, this local market has been around since 1888 when it originally began as a wet market in Kuala Lumpur.

However, the Central Market was relocated in the 1980s to its current home where it’s been serving customers ever since.

Not overly large, it’s the perfect sized indoor market to spend a good hour or two meandering the little shops and carts found across the two levels.

The amazing thing about shopping at Central is that you’ll find many hidden gems and handicrafts that you don’t find at the other street markets in town.

Shop for crystals and powerful gemstones, ancient brass ornaments, or bags and purses made from Batik fabrics.

There’s a gallery towards the back of the market on level one, and pick up perfumes, handmade soaps, and flower-pressed jewels en route. Upstairs is lined with many colorful clothing shops, as well as a food court.

4 – Cross the highest two-story bridge in the world at Petronas Twin Towers

In a city full of skyscrapers, head 88 floors above ground level to the tallest twin towers in the world, and take in the sweeping views of Kuala Lumpur below.

Reaching 450 meters, the Petronas Twin Towers are hard to miss but don’t just stare at its impressive architecture from below.

Visit the Observation Deck on the 86th floor for panoramic city scenes from above the clouds, followed by an informative visit to the Digital Display on floor 83.

The famous Skybridge connects the two towers on levels 41 and 42, and if you’re keen for a round of shopping afterward, hit Suria KLCC Shopping Centre (located on the basement level of the Petronas).

P.s. There’s also a telescope for anyone to use at the Observation Deck.

• Petronas Twin Towers tickets

5 – Admire the Federal Territory Mosque’s stunning architecture

Although the Federal Territory Mosque is still in use, many travelers pay the worship grounds a visit simply to revel in its beauty and architecture.

There are curved archways, patterned entrances, and different tiers to explore. Wander around the serene water pond feature surrounding the entire mosque, which creates magical reflections across the floors.

The blue ‘qubba’ (domes) are really striking and are lit up at night. With the capacity to fit up to 17,000 worshippers, it’s all quite regal — not to mention a mega photo opportunity!

6 – Climb 272 steps at the Batu Caves

From the 42-meter-high golden statue of Lord Murugan to the rainbow-colored steps leading up to ancient caves, you’ll feel totally transported the moment you arrive at the Batu Caves site.

(Lord Murugan is known as the chief deity of the Tamil, and he is the God of yoga and religion.)

There are four main limestone enclaves that most tourists visit. However, to reach any of them, you’ll first need to ascend the 272 steps, passing the Vedic god at the start, and local monkeys along the way.

Explore paintings of Hindu gods inside the Ramayana Cave, or trek through the pitch-black Dark Cave located close by.

While there isn’t much visitor information on-site, book a guided city tour and enjoy an educational and enlightening experience to the Batu Caves from Kuala Lumpur.

• Batu Caves tours

Hot tip: The most beautiful places in Asia captivate photographers and artists, inspiring creativity with their extraordinary landscapes and vibrant colors.

7 – Escape big city life and head to the hillsides of the Genting Highlands

Hello Genting Highlands, where the weather is cooler and the scenic views are unending. It’s the perfect place for a day trip outside of KL.

Although the town inside Genting has been built as a resort city filled with casinos (including its very own mini Las Vegas), shopping malls and theme parks, the areas just outside of the city are simply magical.

Stay in a homestay or a glasshouse villa and wake up to a sea of clouds, visit traditional villages nearby, and feast on local culinary delights typical to the region.

Travel up to mountain peaks via the town’s cable car to glimpse some of the best views of Genting from above — don’t forget your camera!

• Genting Highlands day trips

8 – Be amazed by the architecture of Dataran Merdeka

The Sultan Abdul Samad Building building at Independence Square is steeped in history and was originally built when Malaysia was still under British rule.

In fact, it was only in 1957 that the country gained its own freedom.

Every Independence Day, the people of the city all congregate at Dataran Merdeka for festivities and celebrations, and it’s a popular point of interest for travelers as many must-see sites and buildings are located close by.

The architecture is really interesting, celebrating a mix of colonial and traditional design. Visit Kuala Lumpur’s very own ‘Big Ben” tower clock, topped with a brass dome, and check out the light brick hallways and spiral staircases.

As the sun sets, the building is lit up in warm red lights and it takes on the appearance of a castle.

9 – Take some time out to rejuvenate at KLCC Park

Looking for a place to picnic? Chill out on the soft green grassy banks, or take a seat around KLCC Park’s water feature fountain, which lights up at night!

Speaking of lights, the Petronas Twin Towers are right in front of the park, and the entire area sparkles in the evenings.

With an allocated jogging pathway, you might prefer to exercise at this time of the day, once the blazing Malaysian sun has set.

If traveling with little ones, there’s a kid’s playground here, and the As Syakirin Mosque (also known as the KLCC Mosque) is located within the park.

10 – Explore the vibrant Chinatown

It’s busy and bustling and full of life in Chinatown.

Comprising of the area around Petaling Street, as well as Central Market, eat and shop until you drop, and spot some of the coolest street art that KL has to offer around this neighborhood.

Lined with red lanterns, visit Chinese shophouses and shop for souvenirs, herbs and traditional remedies. Go temple-hopping (Chan See Shu Yuen, Guan Di and Sri Maha Mariamman temples are in this area) or grab tea at a boutique cafe.

Try out a walking tour , stopping at various hawker stalls where your guide explains and translates for you. It’s also a convenient area to book your accommodation in and is close to many city attractions.

• Chinatown tours

11 – Feel like royalty at the National Palace (Istana Negara)

When the impressively large grounds were first built in the early 1990s, it wasn’t the royals that resided at the National Palace.

Originally home to a Chinese tycoon who made his fortune selling tin, it was only in 1957 that the royal family took over the site.

The family called the National Palace home up until 2011. Today, guests can explore the palace gardens and hallways, and Istana Negara has now been converted into the Royal Museum.

Many city tours include a stop-off at the National Palace to visit the museum, and checking out the palace’s different rooms.

12 – Visit an incredible pink mosque at Putrajaya

Take a day trip to Putrajaya, a one-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, and explore the former marshland that’s now home to a modernized city.

As the official administrative and judicial capital of Malaysia, Putrajaya runs super efficiently and part of the city’s mission policy is environmental sustainability. Hence, it’s been dubbed the “Green City”.

The natural environment is made up of wetlands, so the area is ultra lush. Take a boat tour on Putrajaya Lake, stopping off at famous attractions on the waters like the Iron Mosque.

World-famous, visit the Putra Mosque where many flock to take photos of (and with) its glowing-pink exteriors. The city is filled with nature parks like Taman Botani Putrajaya and outdoor activities, including flyboarding and even a skate park.

• Putrajaya day trips from Kuala Lumpur

13 – Discover various animals and habitats at Farm In The City

Farm In The City is exactly as its name states and you’ll get the chance to see, interact and feed the animals up close up.

The conservation park was designed to replicate a traditional Malaysian village, known as a ‘kampung’, and is divided into different areas where tribes of different species call home.

Give the Giant Tortoises an afternoon snack or try bird feeding inside the free-flight bird aviary. Is your child obsessed with lizards and snakes? Stop by Reptiles Cavern, or for something more cutesy, the Pet Village is filled with bunnies and guinea pigs.

Other epic attractions include a tropical fruit orchard, a veggie farm of local produce, a jungle walk as well as a traditional Longkang Fishing Village.

14 – Explore more than 12 galleries at Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Take a look into Malaysia’s rich cultural past inside the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia .

Unlike many museums, the building is bright, white and modern which really lets the artifacts and collectibles on display shine.

As you arrive, look up! An upside-down dome greets guests as they enter, and there is also a beautiful blue engraved qubba outside the building.

The permanent displays include the Textile Gallery, Architecture Gallery, India Gallery, China Gallery, and the Jewellery Gallery among others. There are also rotating exhibitions that change every few months.

15 – Meet Spongebob and the gang at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

What better way to beat the heat than spending the day swishing and whirling down water rides at Sunway Lagoon!

Catering for all ages, this exciting park is unlike many, and it’s no ordinary setup. There are six areas to discover, including the Water Park and Amusement Park. Ride the world’s largest vortex ride, the Vuvuzela, or hit the man-made Surf Beach.

Play games at Fun World, ride an old-school carousel and there are meet and greet shows starring your favorite Nickelodeon characters.

Get your adrenalin pumping and try bungy jumping or go-karting at the X Park. For those that dare, Scream Park is loaded with live-action thrills and shrills.

• Sunway Lagoon Theme Park tickets

16 – Learn about the goddess Mazu at the Thean Hou Temple

This six-tiered temple will take your breath away.

With its swooping design, each of the six levels of Thean Hou Temple has a curved bright red rooftop (known as swallowtail roofs) with ornate statues adorning its edges, like the protective Naga snake.

Although the temple is of Chinese design, there are activities and celebrations for those that practice Buddhism, Taoism and Mazu culture.

Explore the main hall on the top floor, and meander through the Zodiac Statue Park and Yixin Garden.

17 – See fairies, we mean, fireflies, up close and personal in Kuala Selangor

Situated right where the river mouth and sea meet, Kuala Selangor is a gorgeous amalgamation of oceanic and riverside vibes.

Trek through nature parks, take a dip in the ocean at one of the beaches and visit the different temples found in this part of Malaysia, like the Monkey God Temple.

Day-trip to this part of Selangor and venture through rice paddies at Sekinchan, and thanks to its geographical location, there’s seafood in abundance in these parts — so be prepared to feast!

The most special part is as night falls. Take a boat trip into the Kuala River’s mangrove and witness hundreds of fireflies lighting up the riverbanks.

• Kuala Selangor day trips

18 – Imagine what it must be like to fly at KL Bird Park

Bird-watchers, marvel at over 200 different kinds of bird species that call KL Bird Park home (also known as Taman Burung Kuala Lumpur).

The park is divided into zones, and zones one to three are massive free-flight aviaries, designed to resemble the birds’ natural habitat as much as possible, with acres of open space for them to roam.

There are daily bird shows and feeding sessions of the different species, from ostrich to eagles.

• KL Bird Park tickets

19 – Explore the modern National Mosque of Malaysia

Known locally as Masjid Negara, the grounds attract non-worship goers because of its striking architecture.

When it was first built in the 1960s, it took inspiration from countries like Turkey, India, and Saudi Arabia in its design. After undergoing an upgrade in 1987, the mosque today has a more modern feel.

If you look closely enough, you will notice that the building’s impressive 73-meter high minaret looks like a closed umbrella, while the 16-pointed blue star shape roof resembles an open umbrella from a bird’s eye view.

20 – Savor the flavors of different cultures on a food tour

The beautiful thing about visiting Kuala Lumpur is you really get a sense of diversity, and the cuisine around these parts represents the same feeling.

From curries to dim sum, there’s an assortment of foods and dishes to try. Some must-try local favorites include nasi lemak and Ikan Bakar (a chargrilled whole fish dish).

There are night markets, food courts and tons of hawker stalls open during the day, plus certain areas are known for their street food.

Instead of taking a bunch of taxis around the different locations, hop on the back of a Vespa scooter and spend the day, or night, eating with a preorganized foodie tour around Kuala Lumpur.

Don’t miss Jalan Alor, KL’s most famous street-food road filled with an assortment of smells and local culinary delights.

• food tours in Kuala Lumpur

21 – Visit the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia: Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

Located in Chinatown, you can’t help but feel naturally drawn inside the temple grounds with its colorful gopuram (tower entrance) overflowing with statues of 228 Hindu deities.

Inside Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, the grounds are not massive and it takes 10 to 15 minutes to walk around the entirety of it.

First constructed in 1873, the temple is reminiscent of South Indian design. As you enter, you can pray, meditate or make an offering at the Prayer Hall, or walk around and discover the different murals and intricately designed statues.

You’ll want to have a camera close by for this one!

22 – Find affordable goods and delicious street food on Petaling Street

In the heart of Chinatown is Petaling Street featuring its glorious street market. Straight off the bat, we recommend dedicating a few hours here to discover, eat and shop.

You can enter Petaling through both ends of the street and start shopping from either side. Don’t miss the dumpling soup at a local street vendor at the beginning of the top entrance – they’ll have you going back time and time again.

Stock up on all sorts at the flea market, like cashmere scarves, trendy sunglasses, (knock-off) make-up brands, perfume, smoking accessories, shoes, clothing, bags, toys, … you name it!

23 – Visit the city via a hop-on hop-off bus tour

An affordable option instead of organizing and paying for a hundred Grab taxis, consider a hop-on-hop-off city tour on a double-decker bus instead!

Choose to do the tour in the daytime or evening (depending on your preference), and each time offers a unique experience and differing city vibes.

Drive comfortably through the streets (grab seats on the second level for the best views) and take in the local scenes and sights. Most tours stop by at least 15 must-see city attractions.

Popular stops include the Petronas Twin Tower, Aquaria KLCC, and Chinatown. As it’s a hop-on-hop-off bus, you can jump on and off at any of the designated stops around Kuala Lumpur.

• bus tours in Kuala Lumpur

24 – Breaking records at the new Warisan Merdeka Tower

While technically the Merdeka Tower is still under completion, once it’s finished construction it’ll top world lists as the second tallest building IN THE WORLD!

With 118 levels and standing 679 meters tall, it will officially take the cake for the highest building in all of Malaysia and the spire (which is the tallest part of the building), is officially complete.

Its name, ‘Merdeka’ means ‘freedom’ in the native Malay language and the tower will be open to the public at the end of 2022.

25 – Witness the (free) light spectacle at Lake Symphony

If you’ve ever traveled to Kuala Lumpur, you can’t help but notice how lit up at night the city is, and it seems like every skyscraper has LED neon light features, or puts on a light-picture display.

After all, its nickname is the ‘Garden City of Lights’. It’s no different at Lake Symphony, except swap buildings for fountains.

Enjoy a water-light show and the display showcases over 150 one-of-a-kind animations in light form, accompanied by musical sounds.

The best part is that it’s free and shows are put on daily. Plus, it’s super easy to find and is conveniently situated in front of the entrance to Suria KLCC shopping center , a six-story mall at the famous Petronas Twin Towers.

26 – Shop ‘til you drop at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

The award-winning mall features over 700 retail stores and restaurants and you’ll find everything you need under the sun at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur .

But unlike the local markets, this is the place to find boutique shops and brand name outlets. Visit Michael Kors, stock up on beauty products at Yves Saint Laurent Beaute, or go gaga for all things tech at Gadget Hub.

Shop the latest fashions at Prada or Fendi, update the kids’ wardrobes at CottonOn Kids, or spoil them with collectible plushie toys from Karafu.

There’s a salon and art museum inside the center too. After all the shopping, choose from plenty of dining options from Tokyo Mik Cheese Factory to Burger King.

27 – Get teleported to France at Bukit Tinggi

Day tripping towards the Genting Highlands region, you do feel worlds away at Bukit Tinggi, otherwise known as Berjaya Hills.

If you’ve never visited a themed village before, Colmar Tropicale is a must-see and the manmade resort town has been built to replicate a village somewhere in the French countryside.

“Travel” through three countries in one day … Don’t leave back to the city without checking out the Japanese Gardens either.

• Bukit Tinggi day trips from Kuala Lumpur

28 – Improve your skills with a local cooking class

Kuala Lumpur celebrates a plethora of cultures, and the same can be said about the food. You will see a variety of cuisines from local curry houses to Chinese restaurants.

Taste the traditional flavors of Malaysia and enjoy a cooking class where you’ll learn to recreate Malaysian dishes and the recipe to take home with you.

Begin the day at a local fresh market where you’ll grab (and get to know) the ingredients, and some cooking classes happen at a home with its own farm.

Here, lavish in the feeling of picking your own produce to cook with, and the satisfaction that follows after creating something scrumptious to eat.

• cooking classes in Kuala Lumpur

29 – Admire the colorful inhabitants of Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

Home to more than 5,000 butterflies, it feels like you’re walking through a magical forest world inside the Butterfly Park.

Fluttering among wispy ferns, scented florals, and ever-green plants, spot the different shapes, colors, patterns and sizes that the different butterflies display.

You might even find that you’re a butterfly whisperer and if you hold out your hands, some might land on you.

Although the Butterfly Park is located within the Lake Gardens, i.e. Perdana Botanical Garden, it’s accessible directly from the roadside so you can make a sole trip here without missioning through the gardens.

Travel tip #2: Skip the waiting lines and prepurchase your Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park tickets in advance.

• Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park tickets

30 – Feel like you’re in Morocco at Masjid Al Bukhari

You’ll know you’re approaching Masjid Al Bukhari when you see the ornate blue rooftop domes sitting in the sky.

Upon arrival, feel like you’ve landed in Morocco, or even Dubai, as the exterior of the building is surrounded by tall tropical Palm trees and a gorgeous blue, star-polygon-shaped pool lies in the garden.

It’s a fantastic place to wander the peaceful grounds, as well as take some snaps of the intriguing architecture.

31 – Spend the day walking through nature at Templer Park

Malaysia’s natural vegetation is made up of rainforests, and if you head just outside of the city, you can experience it too.

Templer Park is a nature park, a 30-minute drive from the city, and it’s renowned for its various hiking trails. Cross pathways lined with indigenous fauna and flora and fresh river streams.

There are treks suitable for all levels, but if you’re looking for a challenge, try your hand at the Bukit Unyang trail. It’s recommended for experienced hikers and trail runners.

• Templer Park tours

32 – Take a step back in time at the National Museum of Malaysia

Known by locals as the Muzium Negara , discover and investigate Malaysia’s history and parts of time long-forgotten.

Comprising of three levels, there are four fascinating permanent exhibitions for guests to check out.

The Prehistoric Gallery dates as far back as the beginning of the Malay Archipelago, whilst the Malaysia Today Gallery hones in on more recent years, including its ‘road to independence’.

The other two galleries cover the Malay Kingdoms and Colonial Era periods, but throughout all four exhibits, uncover maps, ancient texts, scrolls, sculptures, and traditional clothing among many other artifacts from the past.

33 – Take the young ones to KidZania Kuala Lumpur

Hey kids! Ever dreamt of being a doctor one day, or how about a professional chocolatier?

Moms and dads, your tots, toddlers and younger children will have an absolute blast as they get the chance to play dress up for the day at KidZania .

With over 70 different types of role-playing activities to choose from, kids can experience “real-life adult” activities, chores, and day-to-day life lessons. It’s fun, interactive, educational, and an eye-opener for their future, all set in up in an epic environment …

What’s not to love?

34 – Explore the longest underwater tunnel in Malaysia at Aquaria KLCC

Make your way beneath KL’s Convention Centre and discover an underwater paradise at Aquaria KLCC.

The perfect activity for families or couples, spend a few hours admiring the amazing marine animals that are native to the waters around Malaysia.

The aquarium is divided into exhibits that each focus on a different species, or aquatic environment.

As you wander through the underwater tunnel, spot Sand Tiger Sharks or Green Turtles swimming by — it’s a real Instagram moment!

Exhibits include the Evolution Zone, Shipwreck, Deep Forest, The Coast, Living Ocean, Station Aquarium and the Weird & Wonderful. Here, spot the Giant Pacific Octopus or Pinecone fish whose gills look like the outside of a conifer!

• Aquaria KLCC tickets

35 – Visit 99 Wonderland Park’s lucky Golden Waterfall

It’s been named as one of the most “unique recreational landmarks” in the city and for good reason.

99 Wonderland Park is unconventional featuring differing areas and things to do and see. It’s really a mix of attractions, rides, and photo opportunities.

Cross the Magical Bridge (lit up at night), or the Boardwalk above the lake where you can spot wildlife animals nearby.

As an open-zoo concept, look out for peacocks or ducks waltzing past, or head to 99 Buaya Tembaga where the crocs live!

What’s your star sign? One of the coolest features has got to be the 12 Zodiac Walkway, a path lined with the different animal statues of the zodiac.

36 – Take a day trip to “Orang Utan Island”

When you visit Pulau Orang Utan, you can rest assured knowing you’re visiting a fantastic organization.

The rehabilitation initiative is built alongside a lake and the orangutans live freely, with plenty of space to roam and swing from tree to tree.

In fact, the humans are the ones that feel “caged in” as the tour through the conservation park has a confined walkway for visitors among the animals’ sanctuary.

You will also have the opportunity to feed the orangutans fruit through here if they come close enough.

FYI, to reach Orang Utan Island, you need to take a 15-minute boat ride across the lake.

• Orang Utan Island day trip

37 – Make a trip to Taman Negara, a nature enthusiast’s delight

The fantastic thing about calling KL your home base for your vacation is that there are loads of beautiful national parks and areas to visit not far from the city.

Each offers a completely different experience.

Take a day trip to Taman Negara and wander among its rainforest, believed to be 130 million years old!

But that’s not all …You can also walk the world’s longest rainforest canopy walkway and stay overnight among the trees.

Popular activities include fishing, boat cruises, bird watching, rock climbing, rapid shooting and jungle trekking.

Plus, explore the caves located within the national park, and visit Kg. Orang Asli, (an Aborigine settlement).

• Taman Negara National Park day trips

38 – Visit the centenary Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque

Not only is the building an architectural beauty, but the Sultan Abdul Samad Jamek Mosque is built where the Klang and Gombak Rivers meet.

These rivers play an important part in Malaysian history and it’s said to be the birthplace of Malaysia.

It was the first mosque in Malaysia constructed using light bricks, and its design showcases other traditional Moorish features. It’s also well-known in the city as ‘Masjid Jamek’.

39 – Unwind surrounded by nature at KL Forest Eco Park

Whist you need to head a bit out of the city to reach most rainforests, KL Forest Eco Park is the only natural rainforest left inside Kuala Lumpur itself.

Walk across the bridged canopy through forestry of trees and take a refreshing break after a long day of shopping and city sightseeing.

Along the walkway are designated birdwatching/view towers and it’s an amazing spot for photos too. If you’re up for some trekking, hit one of the nature trails like the Jelutong trail.

40 – Check a different type of museum at the National Textiles Museum

Located inside the Sultan Abdul Samad Building at the Independence Day Square is the National Textile Museum where you can wander the hallways of four exhibition rooms.

Explore the different textiles used throughout Malaysia’s past to create fabrics, tools and works of art.

The Pohon Budi Gallery has textiles on display from prehistoric eras, like traditional silk and cotton clothes and garments. Or, learn about the colorful origins of Batik fabrics and design inside the Pelangi Gallery.

41 – Discover why the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is a famous landmark

Still in operation for trains doing the daily commute, the exterior of the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is the real showstopper here.

Constructed back in 1901 when Malaysia was governed under British reign, the building mixes colonial, Mughal and Moorish design elements.

Snap some original photos outside the building and explore its interesting architecture.

Inside the station, visit the KTM Mini Museum where some of the very first train tickets and carriage items are on full display.

42 – Take a look at one of the city’s great urban parks, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa

If your accommodation doesn’t come equipped with a fitness center or gym facilities, a great option to get in your round of exercise is at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa.

Rent a bike and cycle the pathways around the lake, play a round at the on-site tennis courts or jog along dedicated runner’s tracks whilst taking in the views of the Twin Towers.

Kids can have fun at the children’s playground, and enjoy a family picnic under one of the large trees.

Another unique feature at the park is the Remote Control car track, which the little ones will love, as well as anyone who wants to let their inner child come out to play. Plus, in some parts of the world, it’s a serious sport.

43 – Follow the brightly decorated street lamps and alluring smells of Little India

You’ll realize soon enough that you’re in KL’s Little India district, a short 10-minute drive from popular areas such as Chinatown.

Other than falling in love with the colorful local scenes, friendly faces and all of the delicious sweetmeats, shop for all sorts of goods and products imported from India, as well as Sri Lanka, or produced by the local Indian communities.

Find traditional clothing like bright saris and harem pants, stock up on beauty products and traditional Ayuverdic medicine, herbs and spices, as well as souvenirs and artworks of deities, gods and goddesses.

44 – Discover cultural exhibitions and art for sale at Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

How’s this for a complete bird’s eye view over Kuala Lumpur city?

Inside Kuala Lumpur City Gallery , discover a 3D scaled-down model of the entire city of Kuala Lumpur, supported by an informative presentation.

Wandering through the gallery, discover old-school maps and photographs of KL dating back in time, and shop for souvenirs at the gift shop.

If you’re intrigued, you can also visit the workshop area where the staff creates the 3D models.

45 – Admire the stunning Blue Mosque

Travel 20 minutes outside of Kuala Lumpur to the Selangor district where you can spot one of Southeast Asia’s largest mosques from a mile away.

Its official name is Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah , or locally, Masjid Biru.

Apart from the blue and silver checkered dome, it’s the building’s four minarets that make it unmissable.

Reaching a whopping 142 meters, you can see the tips of Masjid Biru in the sky from any part of Selangor.

Don’t leave without snapping a pic in front of the beautiful stain-glassed windows.

46 – Get your fortune read at Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

If you believe in such things, this Chinese temple is well known for its fortune-telling reader (located outside the temple) and many local students visit Sin Sze Si Ya when good luck is needed pertaining to academics.

Carved from heavy woods, overflowing with red lanterns and bundles of incense filling the air, among other superstitions it’s believed that circling the temple’s main altar inside can bring you good fortunes.

Founded in 1864, it’s down the street from the Central Market in Chinatown and can be reached easily on foot from this area and Petaling Street.

47 – Have the greatest time at Berjaya Times Square

The biggest indoor theme park, Berjaya Times Square Theme Park is designed to suit all ages and it’s divided into two areas, Galaxy Station is for adults and older teens and kiddies can have a blast at the Fantasy Garden.

Squeal as you loop the indoor inverted rollercoaster, or try the Spinning Orbit.

Hop onboard the fantasy train and take a ride through Fantasy Garden or design your own avatar and interact with it afterward.

The Cosmo Theatre is also home to the hall of dreams…

48 – Do your sightseeing by taking a bike tour

Not only is this a fun and different way to explore the streets, but you’ll be sure to clock in your weekly exercise.

Spend half a day traveling to Kuala Lumpur’s most famed attractions and sites like Independence Square, Central Market, the Botanical Garden, the KL Tower and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

When booking a bike tour in Kuala Lumpur, you can decide at what time you’d prefer, including evening guides.

Make sure to pre-check different tours and the various landmarks that you visit as tours vary.

If there’s a particular site you want to see, compare tours and the destinations covered during each bike trip.

• bike tours in Kuala Lumpur

49 – Take your loved one for a romantic hot air balloon ride

Are you planning on popping the question soon? What dreamier way to spend the afternoon (or morning) than taking a hot air balloon ride across the Malaysian skyline?!

You’ll see the various landscapes and districts surrounding Kuala Lumpur from a whole new view, crossing endless green scenes below.

After a scenic flight in the air, land and enjoy a glass of bubbles, followed by breakfast at a nearby hotel.

Not just limited to couples, the balloons are large enough to fit small groups. The flight is around 45 minutes, but the whole experience is three hours.

• hot air balloon rides in Kuala Lumpur

50 – Learn something new at Petrosains

Have you got an affinity for science?

Cleverly creating an educational experience that will interest the young and old, learn all about carbon and how it impacts our environment at Petrosains in a fun and interactive way.

The center setup is super cool and futuristic, entering halls lit up with geometric patterned LED lights and you can say hello to the life-sized dinosaur replica that moves!

Watch a Science Show, and learn something new. There are demonstrations you can just watch, or shows at designated stations that recommend interaction.

Some topics covered include space, future energy and combustion.

51 – See the adorable pandas at Zoo Negara Malaysia

Open since 1963, home to over 476 different types of animal species from reptiles to mammals, it seems like there’s an entire kingdom at Zoo Negara .

Set up as an open-zoo just outside of the city, the animals have ample space to live and roam freely and as you walk around the different areas, spot giraffes and tigers in natural grasslands.

The grounds are massive, covering 110 acres, and the animals are grouped and live in different areas across the park.

Visit the Mammal Kingdom, crossing over to the Savannah Walk. Enter the Bird Aviary and don’t miss the Bee Museum either.

52 – Try white river rafting at Kampar River

Gushing rapids and swishing streams, maneuver your way down the Kampar River with an adrenaline-inducing river rafting expedition.

Heading 2.5-hours out of Kuala Lumpur where the air is fresher and nature is in abundance, arrive in Perak (Ipoh’s capital city) and make your way to the riverside where you’ll begin rapid racing.

Before the adventure begins, you are given a demonstration and information about the river, and then it’s time to hit the waters.

Cruising down the 7-kilometer stretch, you’ll cross nine rapids in total.

• rafting in Kuala Lumpur

53 – Perfect your backswing at the Golf Courses

You’d be surprised to learn just how many golf courses there are in Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings.

Play at not one but two courses at the stunning Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club , or test the 170-acre grounds at award-winning Kota Permai Golf & Country Club .

If traveling with the family, bring the kids to Kelab Darul Ehsan designed with many water features, and you can hit golf balls off a practice range straight into the lake.

Take a swing at the 18-hole course at Bukit Jalil Golf & Country Resort , designed by Max Wexler.

Not only golfing ranges, if you want to make an entire holiday out of it KL also has many golfing resorts that sport their own private range.

Some popular golfing resorts include Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort and Bangi Golf Resort .

54 – Try rock climbing at Bukit Takun

As you’ve surely noticed by now, the areas outside of the city center are lined with mountains and hillsides, and so it makes sense that you would be able to do some sort of rock climbing activity.

Inside Templer Park stands a gigantic 300-meter high monolith named Bukit Takun.

The single rock formation stands proudly to one side, and you can admire parts of the rock from the road leading towards it.

It’s a really popular destination for climbing enthusiasts and has been ever since the 80s when the first routes were bolted. Today, there are around 32 different rock routes to tackle.

You can either choose to rock climb Bukit Takun, or head to the top of the monolith and descend the rock mountain from here, abseiling down.

• climb and abseiling in Kuala Lumpur

55 – Take a look at one of the biggest bronze statues, the National Monument

If you ever played cops and robbers with the plastic figurines as a child, the scene at the National Monument gives you all the nostalgic feels.

However, it does in fact pay an ode to the ‘fallen soldiers’, who lost their lives during the battle for Malaysia’s independence during WWII.

(During this period, the country was under Japanese occupancy. As you can see, they’ve fought very hard throughout their history to gain their eventual independence, and so it’s still very deeply celebrated.)

Also known locally as ‘Tugu Negara’, the bronzed statues comprise seven soldiers who hold the Malaysian flag.

The number seven was chosen to represent seven different qualities of the country during this time: strength, unity, command, wariness, suffering, sacrifice and courage.

56 – Get your next profile picture on a Kuala Lumpur Instagram tour

This city is just naturally colorful, so get ready to watch your social media blow up during your KL trip.

There’s so much to do, see, and eat that you can’t help but want to take pictures of everything !

With tons of insanely cool parts of the city to explore and attractions that are Insta-worthy, why not take an Instagram tour around Kuala Lumpur and learn all the hidden secret spots that will make your photos pop.

There are a variety of Insta tours, and the private tours include more unique locations. If you’re obsessed with street art, book a tour that shows you some of the best artworks the city has to offer.

• Instagram tours in Kuala Lumpur

57 – Venture into the jungle than a quad tour

It’s not as if you’re able to take a taxi through the rivers, rainforests and mountains around Kuala Lumpur.

If hiking isn’t really your thing, or you’ve done a jungle trek already, why not jump on an ATV bike, and with the wind in your hair, explore the natural landscapes by 4×4.

A popular destination is the Kemensah village near Selangor where you’ll ride through the jungle and stop to swim in a seven-tier waterfall.

Or head through to Janda Baik village in Bentong instead, zooming through tropical, dense forestry and breaking for a dip in the river.

• quad tours in Kuala Lumpur

58 – Enter ‘alternative realities’ inside the KL Upside Down House

For those that have read Enid Blyton’s famous novel, the Faraway Tree, now is your opportunity to experience your very own topsy-turvy land, where everything is upside down, or so it seems…

The museum attraction is divided into different rooms, built to create the illusion that you’re standing on the roof, or the wrong way round.

Not only will your kids have a blast, but even for adults, it’s a cool experience and the photos you’ll take are awesome!

59 – If you’re up for a challenge, try an escape room

Collectively put your brain powers to the test as you’re locked inside a room and have to try and figure out how to escape!

The interactive gaming experience requires players to use logic, patience and some skill in order for victory to be yours.

You’ll be given several clues, and each time you crack the one, it brings you closer to the great escape.

There are different puzzles to choose from with unique themes, and the task takes around 45-minutes to one hour to solve.

A popular activity over recent years, there are a few Escape Rooms in Kuala Lumpur.

• escape rooms in Kuala Lumpur

60 – Put on your fancy clothes for the Golden Triangle

Covering the area of Jalan Imbi, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Raja Chulan streets, these three main roads are considered the Golden Triangle, or the “CBD” of Kuala Lumpur.

It’s lined with a multitude of malls, and boutique shops, and there are many restaurants and cafe options.

Most of the famous skyscrapers are located within the Golden Triangle, including the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC shopping mall.

This part of the city also comes alive when night falls, and the district is synonymous with an incredible nightlife scene.

For festivities, visit the lively Bukit Bintang street and grab drinks at one of the rooftop bars, or put on your dancing shoes and hit the nightclubs.

61 – Fly above water with Flyboard

While there may be no ocean in KL, who said you can’t still enjoy epic water activities and sports? Take flyboarding for example.

If you’ve tried surfing or wakeboarding before, it’s a completely different experience, and you don’t have to have the best balance for this — but it is certainly an advantage.

Thanks to a bit of modern technology, you’re powered into the air by pressured water where you fly above the water.

Strap into your board and boots, then hop on a guided jet ski and head out.

Now, it’s time to FLY! For those that feel comfortable enough, you can even do tricks on both the water and in the air.

• flyboard in Kuala Lumpur

62 – Try a one of a kind experience at Windlab Indoor Skydiving

In all honesty, strapping yourself up and jumping out of a plane can sound pretty daunting to some.

If you’ve always wanted to try skydiving but not to such extremes, test the waters first at Windlab Indoor Skydiving.

Located inside 1 Utama shopping mall, gear up, jump inside a cylindrical glass chamber and feel the forces of gravity.

Using modern technologies known as ‘vertical wind tunnels’, once you’re inside the chamber, air forces reach up to speeds of 250km/h.

You’re whizzed towards the sky and playing with gravity, performing stunts like tumble turns whilst in mid-air.

• indoor skydiving in Kuala Lumpur

63 – See a corridor full of money at Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery

For those that don’t consider themselves art fans, you can’t help but get swept away by the pretty architecture and exhibition decor that you’ll find inside the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery.

Aiming to make the world of financials seem less daunting to those that aren’t economists, Bank Negara has set up the museum to educate its guests in an approachable manner.

There are six permanent galleries to check out. These are the Children’s Gallery, the Bank Negara Malaysia Gallery, Economics Gallery, Islamic Finance Gallery, Numismatics Gallery and the Art Gallery.

Plus, the museum’s spiral staircase is a picture-perfect moment.

64 – Have a little preview of Thailand at Chetawan Buddhist Temple

If you’ve traveled to Thailand before, you’ll immediately notice the similarities between the Chetawan Buddhist Temple in Kuala Lumpur and the types of temples you usually find in the Land of Smiles.

In fact, when the temple first opened in 1957, the king of Thailand at the time traveled to Kuala Lumpur and officiated its opening with his blessing.

Marvel at its intricate architecture that resembles typical Thai Buddhist design, from the gleaming stupas to gold standing Buddhas inside.

Spend some time in quiet meditation and there are Thai Buddhist monks who reside here and run the temple.

65 – Go chasing waterfalls at Kanching Recreational Forest

Heading north of KL, enter the nature park at Kanching Recreational Forest and make your way into its luscious rainforest.

Especially popular on weekends, the seven-tiered Kanching Rainforest Waterfall is located within the park and it’s really easy to access from the entrance.

The first three levels of the fall are the most popular, as well as being the most accessible. Not much effort is required to reach these tiers, however, the further up the waterfall you go, the more climbing and trekking will be required.

Situated in Rawang district, it’s a lovely picnic destination spot.

66 – Make your way to the Secret Garden inside 1 Utama

Credit to 1 Utama Shopping CentreDid you know that 1 Utama is the seventh biggest shopping center in the world??

Located 45-minutes away from Kuala Lumpur (in Selangor), you can totally turn an expedition here into a day trip — you’re going to need at least a few hours just for the shopping.

They cater to all budgets and you can shop for designer brands or at local fashion outlets.

Find home appliances, beauty products, gifts and shoes, and the mall covers every department.

Feeling peckish? Hit the food court, or if here with kiddies, let them rid some energy at Playtime Kids, or at Sports N’ Play.

In need of a moment to rejuvenate after all that shopping? Visit 1 Utama’s Secret Garden where over 500 types of fauna and flora are on display.

67 – Finish your day at the best rooftop bars

With so many skyscrapers in the city, it makes total sense that the rooftop bar options are endless.

As the red sun starts to dip, lift your feet off ground level and raise your spirits, making your way to an epic urban rooftop.

If you are looking for a 360° views of Kuala Lumpur, the Heli Lounge Bar is the place! This rooftop is a fully functional helipad by day and an incredible bar by night.

For endless views, take your cocktail hour at Vertigo on level 59 at the Banyan Tree, or Fuego Troika Sky Dining is great for couples.

Fashionistas, scout out who’s who at  Vouge Lounge , or head to Blue at EQ , an elegant rooftop speak-easy bar.

Indulge in champagne and caviar at Marini’s on 57 or try one of SkyBar ’s signature cocktails around the pool.

LOOP KL is really funky and draws in a younger, hipster crowd with its indoor pool filled with inflatables and Man Tao Bar has striking views of the KL Tower.

Where to stay?

Looking for a place to spend the night (or three) in Kuala Lumpur? Large and boutique hotels are very popular, as well as apart-hotels.

If you’re traveling on a budget, some affordable options include ibis Kuala Lumpur , Expressionz Suites By iHost Global and The Robertson and all have swimming pools.

Both the stylish Ascott Star KLCC and Alila Bangsar hotels show off contemporary design, with stunning city views and rooftop pools.

But if you’re hunting down the epitome of luxury, splurge at either the St Regis Hotel or Four Seasons Hotel . And yes, they certainly live up to their names’ expectations.

• best hotels in Kuala Lumpur

How to get to your hotel?

Travel hassle-free. Pre-organize an airport transfer for as soon as you touch down in KL, where a private vehicle transports you to your hotel. Book a shuttle back to the airport once your trip is over.

Final thoughts:

For those that haven’t traveled to Southeast Asia before, or you’re simply on the hunt for a new country to explore around these parts of the world, Malaysia is an ideal destination.

Thanks to its amalgamation of culture, history and makeup, you’ll feel right at home.

With so much to do and see (from culturally-enriching experiences to historic sightseeing), you’ll probably need more than one day and night to explore the depths of the city.

Where go next? Consider consider traveling to some of Malaysia’ equally impressive nearby destinations, including Langkawi , Penang , Perhentian Islands, Cameron Highlands, Kota Kinabalu, and Malacca City. Make sure to not miss Singapore nearby.

We hope you’ve loved our diverse list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. If you have anything you’d like to add to the list, feel free to leave a comment below.

Happy travels!

Unique Places To See In Malaysia

Touring Malaysia and looking for some unusual places to visit? Whether you’re wildlife spottting in the National Parks of Borneo, snorkelling in the shallows of a tropical island, lazing on the sands of a beach resort, heading up to the Cameron Highlands, or discovering the city lights of Kuala Lumpur, there’s always something a little different to do away from the main sites. Here’s our selection of unique places to see in Malaysia which everyone will love.

Langkawi Skybridge

Unique places to see in malaysia.

Authored by Catalin Geangos from his firsthand experience in Malaysia.

Malaysia is a beautiful country situated in Southeast Asia and is uniquely split between an island and a peninsula, though it doesn’t wholly control either.

The portion of Malaysia that rests on the titular Malay peninsula is known as both Peninsular Malaysia and West Malaysia, while the portion that occupies part of the island of Borneo is known as East Malaysia.

Several smaller islands, such as Penang Island , are also considered to be Malaysian territory, and some even have their own attractions to visit.

The nation’s capital of Kuala Lumpur is in Peninsular Malaysia, though West Malaysia has no shortage of large cities of its own. Peninsular Malaysia shares a land border with Thailand, while East Malaysia shares a land border with the nation of Brunei and Indonesia.

Malaysia, along with its neighbouring island nations such as Indonesia and Brunei is also part of a region known as the Coral Triangle. This locale is home to the largest amount of biodiversity ever recorded among marine life and is currently believed to be home to over five hundred unique species of coral builders, also known as coral polyps. 

There are many unique places to visit in Malaysia, a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches, coastal jungles, cavern systems, coral reefs and dive walls, and a multitude of man-made wonders alongside them.

Islam is the state religion of Malaysia, meaning that there are numerous picturesque mosques to visit even if you are not an adherent of Islam. Non-Muslims are permitted to practice their faith freely, meaning that there are a variety of temples belonging to other faiths as well, with Hindu shrines being the most notable of these.

English is spoken widely as a second language across the country, while their primary language is Malay, meaning that traveling in the country is less daunting for English speakers than it would be otherwise. 

Berjaya Langkawi Resort

Widely considered to be one of the best beach resorts in Malaysia, the Berjaya Langkawi Resort is located on the small island of Langkawi off the coast of Peninsular Malaysia and situated on a beautiful beach upon said island’s west coast.

This beachfront resort is home to numerous chalet accommodations. All the chalets are situated atop stilts, with some even being suspended over the water, truly adding to the tropical feel of the resort.

Spa and exercise facilities as well as an outdoor pool are just some of the amenities available for customers to partake in. Transportation into the nearby town is done by shuttle and is offered complimentary with your reservation. 

Sitting at 4.4 out of 5 stars with over 5,000 reviews mark this as truly one of the best beach resorts in Malaysia.

Kuching Cat Museum

The colonial city of Kuching is located within East Malaysia and is home to a rather peculiar museum. Cats have been present alongside humans throughout history, serving as faithful companions, or even worshipped as deities like those in Ancient Egypt were. While they were not as highly revered in Malaysia, cats still hold many positions of symbolic importance in folklore and other traditions.

The Kuching Cat Museum is home to many exhibits on the cultural history of cats both in Southeast Asia and worldwide. Kuching even means cat in the Malay language, meaning that this museum is quite literally situated in ‘Cat City’. 

Cat lovers will also likely be captivated by an exhibit based on the rarest cat in the world. Felis Badia, also known as the Bay Cat, is an exceedingly rare feline that is native to the island of Borneo where East Malaysia is situated. This elusive cat is not often seen by humans and there are only estimated to be about 2,500 adults of the species living on the island, though the Kuching Cat Museum does possess the only taxidermized specimen in the world.

Hours for the museum are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. all week long, meaning that you will not miss out on seeing the many exhibits on offer if you visit the city of Kuching on a weekend.

Kuching waterfront lies on the banks of Sarawak River where you can enjoy a leisurely Sarawak cruise . This unique colonial city, makes a great base for seeing some exotic Borneo wildife on an adventurous Santubong Sunset cruise or for getting a boat over to Bako National Park . A day trip inland to Bau Fairy Caves and Blue Lake is another exciting excursion.

Located near the nation’s capital of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves are home to a Hindu holy site and temple complex. Thousands of pilgrims travel to the site every year to observe the holiday of Thaipusam, which is a symbolic ceremony to commemorate the triumph of good over evil.

Pilgrims come to honor the victory of the Hindu deity Murugan over the demon Surapadman during this ceremony, which takes place either in January or February in accordance with the Tamil calendar, which functions differently than the commonly accepted calendar.

The caves themselves are home to troupes of macaque monkeys, which have been known to approach visitors and snatch things right out of their hands. Tours of the cave are offered, allowing you to explore the depths not seen by many.

The site of the caves can be easily accessed from Kuala Lumpur, as there is a commuter train and a bus route that has stops at the cave. Restaurants are also situated near the cave entrance, offering their meals to hungry travelers.

As this is a holy site, make sure to act respectfully on the premises, especially if your visit coincides with Thaipusam.

Avatar Secret Garden

As the second highest-grossing film of all time Avatar , released in 2009, has spawned a myriad of subsidiary content in the form of both merchandising and physical attractions. The Avatar Secret Garden is one of these physical attractions and it endeavors to replicate the look and feel of the forested moon of Pandora, the main setting of the film.

Located on Penang Island , this secret garden is built into part of the island’s rainforest and makes use of lighting structures situated on the plants and walkways to simulate the visual spectacle presented in the film. These lights only begin to shine around 7.30 p.m. local time and coming after dark helps amplify the experience to its fullest.

Raised steps and walkways allow you to explore the vibrant jungle to your heart’s content. Buddhist themes are also represented in the garden, creating a unique meld of popular culture and traditional religious beliefs. The Park charges no admission fee, though there is a paid parking lot nearby if you would rather save the walking for the garden.

Islamic Heritage Park

Islam is the primary religion practiced in Malaysia, so it would make sense that the nation is dotted by mosques and other Islamic holy sites. The Islamic Heritage Park, located on the small island of Wan Man, is a large complex that contains not just one mosque, but several.

The main attraction of the park is the Crystal Mosque, though there are also several replicas of famous mosques around the world such as the Dome of the Rock whose original location is in Jerusalem. Finished in 2008, this massive mosque is constructed out of glass and steel, giving the construction its name. The glassy look of the mosque reflects off the water, creating a beautiful image for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

The main mosque is also fully internet-capable, a strange addition to a site of worship, but one that the architects seem fond of. Capable of holding up to 1,500 worshippers at a time, this site is one to be treated with respect, as all religious sites are. If you happen to visit the mosque during a time of prayer, keep your voice low if you need to speak. Exploring the replica mosques is a treat as well, as the attention to detail is incredible. 

Cameron Highlands Rose Centre

Located in the heart of Peninsular Malaysia, this garden is home to hundreds of colorful blooming roses. Once a mere vegetable farm, the location has been transformed into a beautiful flowery paradise. Floral displays and artwork are present for all to see, and there are also stone sculptures dotted around the area.

These statues can range from figures from Disney’s famous Snow White , bright pink bulls, and even to some more esoteric constructions. Over 100 variants of rose are present at the garden, as well as numerous other flower species all in a wide range of colours.

This Cameron Highlands Rose Centre also boasts a tourist centre where visitors can learn more about the biology of the flowers, their life cycle, and how their unique colors came about. Many of the flowers on display are native to the highlands this park calls home, while others have been imported and bred at the park.

Keep in mind the time of year you are visiting, as while the park is open year-round, visiting during the colder months will likely leave you disappointed.

Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

Flowers and butterflies are one of the most natural combinations known to man, and while you might spot a few vibrantly winged insects during your visit to the Rose Centre, if you find that your craving for butterflies has not quite been sated then you can visit the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park .

Located in the nation’s capital, adjacent to the Lake Park, it’s home to thousands of butterflies of various species and colorations. You do not need to observe them from a distance either, as there is an 80,000 square foot flying enclosure where you can watch the majestic insects take flight up close and personally.

While the park is named for butterflies, there are numerous other exhibits in which you can view and learn about various insect species that call Malaysia home. You can even see a pit that is home to scorpions within the museum.

Koi fish and turtles can also be observed, making this a well-rounded experience for anyone who has an interest in the natural world.

Bamboo Playhouse

Bamboo has long been a staple in both construction and culture in Asia, and Malaysia is no exception. Situated in Kuala Lumpur, the Bamboo Playhouse is a public pavilion located inside the larger Perdana Botanical Gardens . Constructed from bamboo as the name suggests, the playhouse is layered in a way that makes for a unique exploration of the structure.

As the playhouse rests on a small island within a lake, it is also home to a restful view, which can be observed from one of the many sitting baskets that are elevated above the main floor of the playhouse. These sitting baskets are easily accessible, with only a short ladder climb separating them from the ground.

The wider Perdana Botanical Gardens is also home to several other exhibits such as a Herbarium where you can learn more about native plant species, a Hibiscus Garden which contains Malaysia’s National Flower, and other event pavilions for public use.

Located on the same island as the Berjaya Langkawi Resort, this bridge is a strange sight to behold. Completed in 2005, this bridge is intended to be a pedestrian bridge, allowing people to walk above the scenic forests of the Gunung Mat Chinchang mountain.

This bridge is not for the faint of heart, however, as it is suspended 2,000 feet above sea level by a lone pylon. You will also be able to travel to the mountain itself via the bridge, and even hike to its summit, though this is only recommended for those in good shape as it is a rather arduous climb. Bring plenty of water with you as the trek across the bridge and potential subsequent hikes will likely have you sweating buckets. 

Malaysia is home to numerous attractions for you to visit on your travels, and it is one of the more accessible countries when it comes to English-speaking travelers. From gorgeous beaches and reefscapes to religious sites or cat museums, this country is packed full of interesting things to do and see in both West and East Malaysia. Travel safely as always!

About the Author Catalin Geangos originally moved from his native Romania to the UK. He has since travelled through 30 countries including Malaysia where he gained an extensive knowledge of this fascinating part of SE Asia.

Unique Places to See in SE Asia

Poon Hill (Nepal )

I didn’t realize how excited I would be to get up at 4 am! I threw on some warm clothes, my hiking boots and headlamp and then began the walk up from Ghorepani to Poon Hill, to see the sunrise over the Himalayas.

Gili Meno Island (Indonesia)

Gili Meno is a tiny island in Indian Ocean where it meets the Pacific by the Wallace Line,  a few kilometres off the northwest coast of Lombok and 35 kilometres east of Bali; sometimes called ‘Robinson Crusoe Island’, it’s just like a castaway island.

Ellora Cave Temples (India)

1 day visit to Ellora Cave Temples – our guide to one of the most extraordinary sites in India and how to get there! Juan and I caught an early morning bus from Udaipur to a place called Ahmedabad, watching a rural India of cotton fields and sugar cane plantations pass by…

Laos: Plain of Jars and Ban Napia, Phonsavan

How to visit the Plain of Jars and Ban Napia ‘spoon village’ near Phonsavan in Northeast Laos. Plain of Jars, one of the world’s greatest enigmas is just 8 km south of town; three separate archaeological sites date to the Iron Age, Site 1 being the largest with 338 sandstone jars scattered over 28 hectares of grassy burial ground.

Thailand: Chiang Rai and the White Temple

Continuing our 4 week guide to Thailand with a visit to the fantasy White Temple in Chiang Rai. Chiang Rai is a picturesque province in the mountains of north Thailand in a remote area known as the Golden Triangle. Together with neighbouring territories in Myanmar and Laos these mysterious lands…

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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

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

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience in KL?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

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

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Kuala Lumpur.

There’s no better way to discover this great city.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

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

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

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

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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

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Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

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

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

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

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

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

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

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

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

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

Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

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

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

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

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

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

Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

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

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

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

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

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.

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

It’s worth it!

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Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

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Visiting Kuala Lumpur

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation Guide

Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

simonlong / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

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

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

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

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

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

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

The total solar eclipse 2024 is happening today! Here's what you need to know

Millions are ready to watch  —  are you?

It's the day we've all been waiting for! Total solar eclipse 2024 is finally here. Today (April 8) a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America from Mexico, through 15 U.S. States and up through Canada. For viewers inside the path of totality, the moon will completely cover the sun, darkening the sky and revealing our star's hidden outer atmosphere.

You can keep up to date with the latest eclipse content on our eclipse live blog and watch all the total eclipse action unfold live here on Space.com courtesy of NASA. Our livestream coverage begins at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT). 

If you capture a great photo of the solar eclipse and would like to share it with us please email it to [email protected] . 

Related: 10 things you probably didn't know about the total solar eclipse 2024

Every U.S. State will experience at least a partial solar eclipse today. If you want to check what time you'll be able to see the solar eclipse and find out what it may look like from your location check out this great interactive map from NASA . 

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on our planet. It appears almost exactly the same size as our sun and for those witnessing the event from the path of totality, it will completely cover the sun's visible disk.

Last minute preparations  

If you haven't been able to get hold of a pair of eclipse glasses and are looking for an easy way to still view the solar eclipse safely we have a list of some alternative ways to view the eclipse with items from around the home . 

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Remember NEVER look directly at the sun. To safely view all of this event, you must use solar glasses or filters. Only those in the path of totality will be able to remove them briefly to see the sun's corona with their naked eyes. Those not in the path of totality must keep them on the entire time. 

Everyone observing the partial phases of this eclipse — and for those outside the path of totality, that's the entire event — will need to wear solar eclipse glasses while cameras, telescopes and binoculars will need solar filters placed in front of their lenses. 

Our how to observe the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar observations. 

Eclipse timings

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Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

My formal 2024 solar eclipse apology

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• COLGeek Skies good, so far. Telescope setup and looked at sun spots a bit already. I'm kicking myself for not getting a CCD. Hoping for a good viewing today. Reply
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