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Malaysia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Malaysia is one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia . While the country does see a fair share of backpackers, it sees only a fraction compared to popular neighbors Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

In my opinion, people are missing out.

From the dense urban jungle of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches of the Perhentian Islands , from the jungles in the interior to the delicious food, Malaysia has a ton to offer travelers.

Explore tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands , trek through the vast national parks of Gunung Mulu and Taman Negara, and admire incredible wildlife, including tigers, elephants, sun bears, and more.

Or head to Borneo to look for wild orangutans, hike through the rainforest, and marvel at the knife-sharp peak of Mount Kinabalu.

All too often, travelers breeze through Malaysia on their way to places like Thailand or Singapore. I’d encourage you not to make that same mistake as there is a ton to see and do here — and it’s all super affordable.

This Malaysia travel guide will give you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time in this incredible destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Malaysia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in malaysia.

1. Visit Kuala Lumpur

Chances are you’ll be spending at least a few nights in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur . Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, see the famous Sri Mahamariamman Temple, explore the Batu Caves, and see the colorful butterfly garden. It’s a great foodie city too.

2. Dive in the Perhentian Islands

These islands are hugely popular with snorkelers and divers because of their reefs and crystalline waters filled with a wide variety of coral, turtles, sharks, and reef-fish. They are getting more popular every year but are a beautiful respite from the tourist-packed islands in Thailand.

3. Visit George Town

George Town is Malaysia’s most enchanting city, with Chinese temples next to mosques and colonial British Raj architecture amongst modern skyscrapers. George Town’s crisscrossing streets teem with bustling shops, historic buildings, and busy cafes.

4. Hike Mount Kinabalu National Park

Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and a popular hiking trek in which you make your way through dense jungle to reach the summit. Admission is 15 MYR, a climbing permit is 200 MYR, and mandatory insurance is 7 MYR. There are only a set amount of permits allowed per day and you must make go with a guide so plan ahead!

5. Tour the tea plantations

Other things to see and do in malaysia, 1. go wildlife spotting.

Malaysia has a rich diversity of wildlife. Orangutans, Malaysian tigers, Monitor Lizards, and Sumatran Rhinos are all indigenous to the country (Borneo and Sumatra and the only places in the world with wild orangutans). Malaysia’s national parks and wildlife reserves are the best places to go to see wildlife, including Taman Negara and Bako National Park. For Orangutans, go to Borneo. Most day tours cost under 500 MYR, while multi-day tours start around 1,500-2,650 MYR.

2. Dive Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is one of the world’s best dive sites. The famous French explorer Jacques Cousteau declared the island an “untouched piece of art” — and he wasn’t wrong! Barracudas, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and greenback and hawksbill turtles fill these crystal waters. Only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts (located on neighboring islands) each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days, diving the surrounding areas, before they can get a Sipadan permit. A 3-dive package at Uncle Chang’s, a budget-friendly dive lodge, costs 550 MYR.

3. Explore Taman Negara National Park

At an estimated 130 million years old, Taman Negara is the oldest rainforest in the world. You can embark on the world’s largest canopy walk, take a 4×4 safari to look for elephants and tigers, go spelunking, or visit some Orang Asli villages (belonging to the country’s Indigenous peoples). Admission is 1 MYR, and 5 MYR if you want to take photos within the park.

4. Relax at Pulau Langkawi

Featured in thousands of different magazines, websites, and articles, Pulau Langkawi is a picturesque retreat on an archipelago of more than 100 islands made up of white sandy beaches and endless sunshine. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach area, especially for its strip of restaurants, bars, and shops. For something slower, visit some of the area’s traditional villages, go snorkeling at Payar Island, or check out the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls on the northwest side of the island. This is one of the best places in the country to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a slower pace of life.

5. Go whitewater rafting

Outside of diving, Malaysia is also known for its challenging whitewater rafting conditions. You can find all grades of rafting on the rivers here, and prices start around 200 MYR for a half-day excursion. Kuala Kubu Bharu River and Ulu Slim River are two popular options.

6. Understand Malaysia’s colonial roots

Malaysia has a tumultuous colonial past. The country was annexed by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British before finally gaining independence. For a deeper understanding of this history, visit Malacca (Melaka). Located just two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum offers an in-depth overview of Malaysia’s colonial past. Admission to the museum is 16 MYR.

7. Tour Borneo

Just to the east of Malaysia is Borneo, the third-largest island in the world and home to some of the most diverse rainforests on the planet. Pair that with unlimited wildlife viewing opportunities (including endangered orangutans and proboscis monkeys), and rich Indigenous culture, and you’ve got the makings of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If you’re an experienced climber, you can also climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia at 4,095 meters (13,400 feet) high.

8. Visit the temples

Malaysia has countless beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples scattered all around the country. Some of the most impressive temples include the Batu Caves (Kuala Lumpur), Sri Mahamariamman (Kuala Lumpur), Thean Hou (Kuala Lumpur), Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani (George Town), and Sam Poh Tong (Ipoh). As most temples are still practicing centers of worship, appropriate dress is required to enter. Admission is always free.

9. Dine on street food

Malaysia’s mix of cultures means that there’s an incredible variety of delicious and cheap street food to enjoy here. Markets and roadside stalls are great places to pick up hawker food and dine on a budget. Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Alor, Little India, and Chinatown all have tons of inexpensive food stalls with prices starting at 2-4 MYR. You can also take a street food tour to dive in-depth into food culture and history for around 260 MYR.

10. Celebrate Deepavali

Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights and is one of the biggest Hindu celebrations in Malaysia. Also known as Diwali, Dipavali, Dewali, Deepawali, or the Festival of Lights, it’s celebrated in October or November for five days. Traditionally, people host open houses, light candles, have fireworks displays, and serve Indian delicacies. In Kuala Lumpur, the biggest celebrations are in Brickfields (Little India).

11. Go jungle trekking

Don’t miss out on exploring Malaysia’s lush landscapes and dense forests while you’re here. The Cameron Highlands are a great place to go trekking, with 14 trekking routes heading out from the main town of Tanah Rata. Most of the hikes lead to waterfalls and scenic views, but if you want a more challenging trek, you’re required to hire a guide and obtain a permit. Eco Cameron Tours offers 4-hour group tours for 80 MYR per person, including a visit to the famous Mossy Forest (a lush forest with ferns, moss, orchids, and a pedestrian boardwalk).

12. Shop at the markets

Indoor and outdoor markets, operating both morning and night, are everywhere in Malaysia. You can get everything at the markets, from prepared food and produce to clothing and souvenirs. They’re also a great way to experience local culture. Don’t be afraid to barter and haggle – it’s what the locals do! If you don’t want to shop, come here to people-watch and take in the local pace of life.

13. Visit Masjid Negara

Malaysia’s national mosque, this huge house of worship in Kuala Lumpur has the capacity to hold 15,000 people. Opened in 1965, its bright blue star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam (over 60% of Malaysia is Muslim). Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the National Mosque outside of prayer time. Be sure to dress modestly, although there are robes available to put over your clothing as well. It’s free to enter.

14. Help the sea turtles

Malaysia’s islands are great places to see turtles, either by diving, snorkeling, or volunteering. In the Perhentian Islands, the Perhentian Turtle Project accepts volunteers for multi-week stays from April to September. A two-week volunteer program costs 3,621 MYR, with food and accommodation. All money raised goes toward helping the turtles, who face extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and pollution.

  For more information on specific cities in Malaysia, check out these guides:

• Cameron Highlands Travel Guide
• Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
• Perhentian Islands Travel Guide

Malaysia Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-6-bed hostel dorm costs 35-70 MYR per night. A bed in a room with 10 or more beds can cost as little as 20 MYR per night. Popular destinations like the Cameron Highlands and Perhentian Islands are on the higher end of the spectrum. A private hostel room costs around 105-130 MYR per night. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common, though most hostels do not have kitchens if you want to cook your own food.

Camping is popular in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands as a way to save on accommodation costs. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot without electricity.

Budget hotels with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free breakfast start around 75-90 MYR per night. For a three-star hotel with more amenities (such as a swimming pool), expect to pay closer to 200-300 MYR per night.

Airbnb is available throughout the country, mainly offering entire homes and apartments catering specifically to travelers. These start at 100-160 MYR per night.

Food – Malaysian cuisine, like the country itself, features a mix of cultures. China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore have all influenced the country’s dishes. Rice or noodles are the basis of most dishes, and seafood and fish feature prominently, especially on the islands and coastal areas. As a Muslim-majority country, chicken and beef are common and are usually halal. Popular vegetables include cabbage, bean sprouts, lotus root, sweet potatoes, taro, and long beans.

The unofficial national dish is nasi lemak , fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, flavored with pandan leaf, and accompanied by different sides, usually served for breakfast. Other popular Malaysian dishes include roti canai (a sweet or savory flatbread), ikan bakar laksa (spicy noodle soup), and many different regional fried noodle and fried rice dishes.

Steamboat (known in other countries as hot pot), a method of dining in which you cook meat and vegetables in a boiling pot, is popular as well.

Street food (like stuffed pancakes, skewers, and bowls of noodle soup) is the cheapest and most delicious way to eat in Malaysia. Each dish costs only 5 MYR-15 MYR. Snacks like skewers cost 2-6 MYR.

You can expect to pay 10-20 MYR for a meal in a Malaysian restaurant, including food like nasi lemak and rojak (chopped fruit and dough). Simple dishes like fried noodles or a bowl of soup are no more than 13-17 MYR each.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 14 MYR for a combo meal, but other western meals can be double or triple that. Pizza, burgers, or pasta can cost up to 50 MYR.

A beer costs 13-17 MYR and a glass of wine is 20-27 MYR. Cocktails are pretty expensive at 20-45 MYR so I’d skip them if you can. A cappuccino is 8-12 MYR.

A week’s worth of groceries costs between 90-150 MYR for basic staples like rice, noodles, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. Stick to local food items, as western specialties like wine and cheese will destroy your grocery budget.

Backpacking Malaysia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Malaysia, my suggested budget is 115 MYR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, taking public transit to get around, skipping alcohol, and sticking to mostly free activities like walking tours, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

A mid-range budget of 295 MYR per day covers a private Airbnb or private hostel room, drinking more, taking the occasional taxi to get around, eating street food and the occasional sit-down meal, and doing more paid activities like museum visits, food tours, and diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 520 MYR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel with a pool, eat at restaurants for all your meals, have more drinks, visit the islands, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MYR.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

A little goes a long way in Malaysia, but it’s still easy to wreck your budget here if you splash out on fancy meals and tours. Here are some ways you can save money in Malaysia:

• Barter with your taxi driver – Taxis aren’t usually metered in Malaysia (even though it’s required in bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur), so make sure to agree on the fare before you set off. Ask your hotel/hostel staff what you should pay so you don’t get ripped off.
• Camp – It’s possible to camp in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands to save on accommodation. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot.
• Eat the street food – Street stalls are the place to go for delicious hawker food and meals that cost just a few bucks. The street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest!
• Don’t drink – As Malaysia is a Muslim country, drinking is frowned upon, but it does happen. However, to restrict it, the authorities have made drinking very, very expensive so skip the booze.
• Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is a great way to explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget. You’ll not only get to see the sights, but you’ll connect with a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Travel in the off-season – Traveling during the monsoon season (late November to mid-February) is an easy way to save money on flights and accommodation. With significantly fewer visitors, everything is cheaper. To avoid the worst of the rains, skip the east coast.
• Use Grab – Grab is like Uber and often cheaper than both taxis and tuk-tuks, especially if you’re getting a ride from the airport in Kuala Lumpur. Just download the app and go!
• Escape the city – Much of the popular areas in Kuala Lumpur are designed for tourists and can be expensive. Skip the crowds and head to somewhere like Pataling Jaya, a smaller nearby city that has all the perks of KL with none of the downsides.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t always safe so bring a water bottle with a filter with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Looking for budget-friendly places to stay? Here are my suggested places to stay in Malaysia:

• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala lumpur)
• Birdnest Collective Cafe & Guesthouse (Kuala lumpur)
• The Bed Klcc (Kuala lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• Westwood Highland (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Hikers Sleep Port (Cameron Highlands)
• Anis View Perhentian (Perhentian Islands)
• Senja Bay Resort (Perhentian Islands)
• Besut Guesthouse (Perhentian Islands)
• Akinabalu Youth Hostel (Kota Kinabalu)

How to Get Around Malaysia

Public transportation – Most cities in Malaysia have excellent public transport, especially Kuala Lumpur with its buses, light rail, commuter rail, and monorail that all connect every part of the city. A ride costs between 1-15 MYR. If you plan on mostly using public transit, pick up a Touch ‘n Go (TnG) card to use on all modes of public transportation, saving 20% per ride. You can also load unlimited transit passes onto this card.

In Kuala Lumpur, try to use the free GO KL City Bus. It’s a free service that covers most of the tourist hotspots, like Bukit Bintang and Chinatown.

Other cities, like George Town (Penang), are full of city buses that run all over the island. The KOMTAR complex and the Weld Quay jetty are the two primary bus stations. You’ll have to tell your driver where you’re headed, but a typical one-way fare is 2-7 MYR. There are also free buses that go to significant sites in the city, just look for buses labeled “Free CAT Bus.”

Bus – Buses are an easy and efficient way to get around Malaysia. Expect to pay around 5-15 MYR per hour for a bus trip. The main bus companies include:

• Transnasional

Aeroline and Super Nice are high-end services that come with air-conditioning and sometimes even meal service, but they’re still affordable. The 5-hour bus from Penang to Kuala Lumpur costs around 35-45 MYR, while the 3-hour bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands costs about 44 MYR.

Train – Mainland Malaysia has 1,849 kilometers (1,149 miles) of rail, with the main line connecting Singapore to Kuala Lumpur to Thailand.

There are two types of service: express trains, which are air-conditioned and have three different classes; and local trains, which usually only have economy class and are much slower than the express trains. All are operated by Keratapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), the national railway service.

You can use the KTMB.com.my website to look up schedules and to book tickets. Reservations open 30 days in advance.

A train from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (where you’d catch the ferry to Penang) costs 66 MYR, while the 2.5-hour journey from Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur is 30-45 MYR.

In East Malaysia, there is a round-trip sightseeing train that runs from Kota Kinabalu to Papar, with a stop in Kinarut. The North Borneo Railway runs the entire trip, and it takes four hours. The cost is 345 MYR, which includes breakfast and lunch.

Flying – The two leading domestic airlines in Malaysia are Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia. Kuala Lumpur’s airports receive the most flight traffic, followed by Kota Kinabalu and Penang. There are several smaller airports around the country as well.

A flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur can be found for as little as 100 MYR, while a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok ranges between 220-600 MYR. Flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu cost around 225-300 MYR.

Hitchhike – It is common for people to hitchhike in Malaysia, and the locals are eager to pick up travelers. HitchWiki has additional information on hitchhiking in Malaysia.

When to Go to Malaysia

Malaysia’s two peak seasons occur from the start of December to the end of January, and then from June to mid-September. The first tourist peak season occurs during Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr), which celebrates the end of Ramadan. Check ahead to see when this occurs as the dates vary every year. Malaysia’s Muslim population celebrates by taking the week off so your travels could be disrupted if businesses are closed.

Late November to mid-February brings the arrival of the northeast monsoon, affecting much of the east coast with heavy rainfall. September and October are the wettest months on the west coast, with downpours sometimes going on for hours. This is also true in mountainous areas like the Cameron Highlands.

Overall, the best time to visit is from March to early November when it’s drier and less humid. Visiting just after the rainy season isn’t a bad idea either, as it’s still warm, the countryside is lush and full of waterfalls, and tourism is still not overly busy.

Temperatures do not fluctuate much across the country. The daily average is 22-32°C (73-90°F), while in the hills the temperature averages 21°C (67°F). Humidity is high year-round.

How to Stay Safe in Malaysia

Malaysia is safe place to backpack and travel — even for solo travelers and solo female travelers. Violent attacks against foreigners are rare.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Malaysia. When out and about, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. This is especially important in crowded tourist areas and on busy public transportation. Don’t leave anything valuable unattended at the beach either.

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though walking alone a night should be avoided just to be safe.

There are some common scams here, especially in Kuala Lumpur, such as taxi drivers trying to rip off passengers. Make sure the meter is on or negotiate your fare before getting in a taxi (or take a Grab to avoid this altogether).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. That will prevent would-be thieves from snatching your bag quickly while you’re busy eating.

When out in nature, don’t feed the monkeys! They get aggressive and are not afraid of people. Do not approach monkeys quickly or give them treats, as they grab anything within reach.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Additionally, avoid tap water unless you have a water bottle with a filter. Travelers should also note that Malaysia is a modest country, so revealing outfits attract more attention. To be safe and blend in, dress conservatively.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Malaysia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

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

Malaysia Travel Guide

A melting pot of faiths, landscapes, and flavors, Malaysia combines skyscrapers with desert-island beaches and fresh highlands.

Best time to visit Malaysia

Best places to visit in malaysia, 9 best things to do in langkawi (3-day travel guide), 11 best things to do in penang, malaysia (georgetown), best things to do in cameron highlands, malaysia, 8 things to do in melaka, malaysia (2-day travel guide), map of malaysia, weather in malaysia.

Malaysia has tropical weather for most of the year, meaning high humidity. Although it has a monsoon season, this takes place in different areas at different times, so there’s always a dry time to visit. The southwest monsoon season is May-September and the Northeast November-March.

Destinations in Malaysia

15 things to do in kuala lumpur (3-day guide), 9 best things to do in ipoh, malaysia, colorful cities, how to rent a car in malaysia, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Malaysia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Malaysia worth visiting?

The new and the old exist side by side in diverse Malaysia! Witness cutting-edge designs intertwined amongst heritage buildings and UNESCO-protected sites, with a sprinkling of street art and plenty of beautiful beaches and islands in between.

Is Malaysia cheap to visit?

Malaysia is an affordable place to travel in Asia, with beautiful hotels costing around $30-80 per night. It’s also home to fantastic street food and local eateries, where you can pick up a delicious meal for anywhere between $2-5. Bargain!

Can I drink tap water in Malaysia?

Although drinking tap water in the major cities is considered safe, it is not recommended for more remote destinations in Malaysia. While traveling in rural areas, choose an eco-friendly, reusable water bottle with an in-built filter system or refill at hotels and restaurants with treated water.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Malaysia?

Great news! Most tourists can enjoy a Malaysia adventure visa-free for up to 90 days. However, we recommend checking your country’s entry requirements well in advance, as some places are subject to stricter visa rules.

What language do they speak in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a melting pot of different cultures, meaning numerous languages are spoken, such as Chinese and Tamil. However, the primary language is Malay, also known as Bahasa Malaysia; it’s worth learning a few phrases to connect with locals as you travel. Don’t worry too much, though, as English is spoken widely in urban areas.

Do I need travel insurance for Malaysia?

Travel insurance is your safety net for your adventures in Malaysia, protecting you against unexpected events, whether that’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or medical care. Hike up the mountain peak, go open-water diving, or sail the high seas worry-free!

Is Malaysia safe?

Malaysia is generally a safe country to travel to, although some petty crime occurs, especially in bigger cities. Consider leaving valuables at home, keep your belongings close, and watch out for scams and distraction techniques. Keep up to date with travel advisories, particularly for the regions bordering Thailand which see ongoing violence.

What power plug type does Malaysia have?

Malaysia uses type G (the same as in the UK), a three-rectangular-pronged electrical plug. The general voltage is 230V, so consider bringing an adaptor if you use a different plug type or voltage.

Why do people love Malaysia?

Malaysia is loved by travelers for its cultural diversity, which creates a unique blend of influences seen in its varied cuisine, architecture, and landscapes. It’s an unforgettable vacation experience, stargazing on paradise islands in one moment and savoring cocktails from the iconic Petronas Towers in the next.

Traveling in Malaysia

A vacation in Malaysia is unforgettable; the country is home to incredible nature that survives even in urban areas. As such, travelers can be shopping at a bustling street market or sipping a drink at the top of a skyscraper and never be far from luscious jungles, forests, or tea plantations that are bursting with wildlife. 

How to Plan Your Trip to Malaysia

Follow our Malaysia travel guides to plan a perfect trip with a mix of all the cultural and regional highlights. Malaysia is an excellent destination for backpacking because of its lively cities and buzzing backpacker hostels. However, it’s also perfect for luxury vacations, particularly on islands like Langkawi , which often welcome honeymooners. Discover all the best places in Malaysia by following our complete 2-week Malaysia itinerary . 

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Need to choose the best time for your Malaysia holiday ? Find out about the climate in Malaysia with this seasonal information.

Hot Season (April-August): These hot and humid months in Malaysia can be a great time to visit the beaches and islands, especially on the east and south coast, for example, in places like Perhentian and Malacca . However, be aware that temperatures rise to over 30 °C during this time, so it’s not ideal for city sightseeing. Additionally, weather conditions may be hazy and air quality low because of forest fires from other neighboring countries.

Tip: The driest conditions are on the west coast from June to August.

Wet Season (March-November) : Malaysia might see heavy rainfall and humidity during this time, but this is what makes the jungles so lush and green. Because of that, it’s the perfect season for trekking when waterfalls are at their most powerful and nature is thriving. Head for the Borneo Rainforest or up into the cooler climate of the Cameron Highlands . This is also a good time for backpacking in Malaysia as it’s the low season with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. 

Cool Season (December-February): The cool season is the best time to visit Malaysia, which means it is also the most popular time of year for tourism. Temperatures are a milder 25 – 35 °C, and humidity is lower, making it great for city sightseeing in places like Kuala Lumpur and Penang . It’s also an excellent time for outdoor activities and soaking up the sun on the beaches of islands like Langkawi . Please note that as it’s the highest season, accommodation and tours can be slightly more expensive, so make sure to book well in advance.

Coastlines and Beaches in Malaysia 

Malaysia boasts one of the most stunning coastlines in Asia, home to pristine beaches, with paradise islands lying just off the shore. These are some of the best places to visit in Malaysia and the perfect spot to enjoy white sand, crystal-clear waters, coconuts, and abundant marine life. Whether you want to enjoy the seafood delights of buzzing night markets in Georgetown , spot eagles above the mangroves in Langkawi , or simply relax in a luxurious island resort on the East Coast, there’s a sandy spot for every type of traveler.

Langkawi, in the north of Malaysia, is an archipelago made up of 99 islands, so there’s plenty to choose from! On the main island, find stunning resorts, sweeping bays, and rice paddies, perfect for exploring by motorbike. Although a little more built up than some other parts of the Malaysia coastline, Langkawi still offers perfectly preserved nature; here, you’ll find UNESCO -protected mangroves, which form an essential part of the ecosystem and are teeming with diverse and unusual wildlife. 

For true desert-island life, head to the remote islands off the east coast of Malaysia, such as the Perhentian islands, Tioman, or Redang. In these places, going without wifi and phone signal is normal, allowing travelers to completely switch off on their vacation in Malaysia. Spend your days here swinging in a hammock under palm trees that brush the soft white sand, or make the most of the Caribbean-like waters for diving and snorkeling; the marine life is fantastic!   

Wherever you choose, the endless coastline of Malaysia and the hundreds of islands nearby have proved to be the perfect environment for sea life and coral to flourish. Experience adrenaline adventures, ziplining through the coastal jungles, plunging into waterfall pools, or simply take it easy as you soak up the sun. Malaysia is not to be missed!

Food, Culture, and Religion in Malaysia 

With a long history of colonization and immigration, Malaysia has become a melting pot of different influences; it’s a harmonious place where different religions, cultures, and languages exist side by side, making Malaysia travel a truly fascinating experience. 

Religion: Although with a predominantly Islamic population , Malaysia is home to many religions , including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity. Because of this, travelers will see a diverse range of temples dotted throughout the cities and landscapes, from colorfully decorated Hindu temples to expansive domed mosques. The rich tapestry of religions in one place creates an incredible calendar of festivals from Ramadan to Chinese New Year.

Food: The varying influences in Malaysia have also contributed to delicious cuisine, with plates celebrating all faiths, cultures, and nationalities. Malaysian recipes mix Malay, Chinese, Indian , Thai , and Indonesian influences; some of the most famous dishes are the warm and comforting noodle soup, Laksa, delicious Roti flatbreads, and coconut rice dish, Nasi Lemak. All of these can be found in upscale restaurants, buzzing night markets, or hawker centers, where Malaysian families and friends come together to eat and catch up. Join them and dine on some of the nation’s favorite offerings — one of the best things to do in Malaysia ! 

Tip: Make sure to try the somewhat strange dessert named Cendol, made from coconut milk, green jelly worms made from rice flour, and palm sugar, and often accompanied with a serving of red azuki beans. 

Culture: The culture in Malaysia is one of a kind, with so many languages, faiths, and nationalities living together in the same area. This creates a warm, hospitable nation where it isn’t strange to see a group of friends speaking various languages, whether it’s English, Chinese, or Tamil. With all this diversity, customs and traditions are respected and embraced by all, with festivals like Eid, Diwali, and Chinese New Year a vital part of the annual events calendar. It’s also a great place to witness traditional dance and theatre, like shadow puppetry, where silhouettes cut from leather are projected onto a screen to act out a performance (believed to be of Thai or Javanese influence). 

The intertwining of religion , culture , and gastronomical delights creates an enchanting atmosphere that’s hard to beat, making traveling in Malaysia a one-of-a-kind experience!

Why You Should Travel to Malaysia

It’s not often that a country offers such an incredible kaleidoscope of cultural and natural activities, creating exciting contrasts in everything from the landscapes to the architecture and food. With so much to explore (each region is fantastic in its own right), there’s always more to see on another vacation in Malaysia !

From the luscious rainforests of Borneo, teeming with wildlife — and home to the endangered orangutan — to tiny paradise islands off the east coast, there’s a remote and wild landscape for both adventurers and relaxed beach bums. For the city slickers, there are exciting metropolis’ dotted in between, such as Kuala Lumpur with the iconic Petronas Towers and Malacca with its Dutch , British, and Portuguese colonial architecture –  some of the best places to visit in Malaysia . This diversity is infectious, seen in places like the Cameron Highlands , where rolling tea plantations form the backdrop to old-fashioned English tea rooms and Victorian-style lodges. 

From mossy forest trails and wildlife spotting among the rainforest canopy to stargazing on uninhabited islands and cocktail tasting on skyscraper terraces, this infectious nation offers everything and more on your Malaysia holiday .

Safety and Travel Advice in Malaysia

Although Malaysia is generally very safe, travelers should take the necessary precautions to enjoy a safe trip. The following information helps visitors get the most out of their journey. 

Natural Disasters: Because of the heavy rains in the monsoon seasons throughout Malaysia, the country can be prone to natural disasters like flooding and landslides. Stay informed by registering with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip, and be particularly careful in low-lying, flatter areas where flooding can happen unexpectedly.

Crime and safety in Malaysia: While Malaysia is a safe place to travel, petty theft like pickpocketing can happen. Exercise caution by keeping valuables secure and leaving any important belongings at home. Like any destination, we recommend avoiding isolated areas at night, sticking to well-lit spots with more people, and being extra vigilant in crowded places and when withdrawing cash at ATMs. 

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic in Malaysia: While the infrastructure in Malaysia is very good, the roads can be chaotic and are often congested, especially in the cities and outer ring roads. Drivers can be erratic, and traffic rules are loosely followed, so remain cautious. For example, always wear a seatbelt (or a helmet for scooters), and don’t drive over the speed limit. During the rainy season, be aware of road conditions, as the tarmac can be slippery.

Cultural Sensitivity: Malaysia has an incredibly diverse range of faiths, and everyone lives harmoniously and respectfully. Adhere to their customs and traditions by covering up when visiting places of worship, removing shoes before entering, and asking permission to take photos of local people. Please note that public displays of affection are more frowned upon than in some other Asian destinations. 

Drugs and Drinking: Malaysia has very strict drug laws, which can see you imprisoned for small amounts of substance. Severe drug offenses can even lead to the death penalty. Always consume alcohol responsibly and look out for your travel buddies on nights out.

Travel Insurance: One of the most important things you need to do before your Malaysia holiday is purchase travel insurance. This gives you assurance for unexpected accidents – for example, an injury, canceled flight, or lost baggage. Check out these best travel insurances .

Dive Into Malaysia

The Ultimate Malaysia Itinerary For The Ultimate Trip✅ 5 Days To 2 Weeks+ [2024]

Looking for the perfect Malaysia itinerary for your perfect vacation in Malaysia?

You are in the right place!

Between living in Malaysia and now travelling to Malaysia a couple of times a year, I have been to most corners of this awesome country. There are fabulous beaches, a bustling capital, an interesting history, some of the best food in world and so much more!

In fact, there are so many great options for where to travel in Malaysia that this can cause problems when it comes time to plan your Malaysia travel itinerary.

With limited time, where should you go?

I can help you answer this! Below, you will find my detailed Malaysia tour itinerary. It is perfect whether you are looking for a Malaysia 5 day itinerary, a Malaysia 7 day itinerary, a Malaysia 10 day itinerary, a 2 week Malaysia itinerary or anything in between!

This article will work whether you are looking for a backpacking Malaysia itinerary or a luxury travel itinerary – you can easily adapt it to your needs. I start by walking through a Malaysia 7 days itinerary and then give you suggestions for slightly more or less time. I then extend this into a 10 day itinerary and a 2 weeks in Malaysia itinerary before giving suggestions for longer periods.

So if you are lucky enough to have two weeks to explore Malaysia, keep reading through all the itinerary suggestions below!

If you have just 2 – 4 days in Malaysia then click here for all our 2 – 4 day Malaysia itineraries.

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

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!

Malaysia Trip Planner

Before I dive into my Malaysia trip itinerary, I want to point out that if you are currently planning your whole Malaysia trip and wondering about flights, how to get around, how to book accommodation, what time of year you should go, etc etc then I highly recommend you read my detailed guide here to how to plan a trip to Malaysia.

It steps you through everything else you need to think about in addition to the itinerary for Malaysia trip below. In this article here, I’m strictly talking about the best Malaysia tour plan.

If you prefer to listen than read, you can also find a great Malaysia itinerary for 1- 2 weeks in my podcast here.

Malaysia Itinerary: 7 Days

The following 1 week Malaysia itinerary is exactly what you should do if you have that long. If you are looking for a longer or shorter itinerary, I’ll tell you what edits to make below.

A week is a great length of time to explore two of the best parts of Malaysia – the beaches and island scenery, along with the dynamic capital, Kuala Lumpur. These are the best vacation spots in Malaysia. The highlights of this Malaysia itinerary 1 week:

• Discover the best of Kuala Lumpur
• Visit the tallest twin towers in the world, the Petronas Twin Towers
• Learn the history of Malaysia
• Enjoy the best Indian, Chinese and Malay food in Kuala Lumpur
• Explore some of the most beautiful coastline in Malaysia
• Relax at the best beaches

You’ll spend three nights in Kuala Lumpur and four nights in Langkawi.

This would also work great as a Malaysia honeymoon itinerary, staying in the luxury choices noted below.

It’s also great for a family. Depending on your kids’ ages and interests, you may just want to cut down the itinerary a little and add some chill out pool or beach time to make it a bit easier.

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur

Three days in Kuala Lumpur is a great amount of time to get a good taste of this city in this Malaysia 1 week itinerary.

On arrival at the airport, book a transfer , catch a taxi or the express train into Kuala Lumpur so you aren’t wasting any time.

The itinerary below is based on my detailed 3 day itinerary for Kuala Lumpur here. Click here to get more detailed information or see an overview below. It assumes you hit the ground running and have three full days in Kuala Lumpur. If you don’t, edit out the attractions that seem least interesting to you.

• Start the day at Merdeka (independence) Square where the Malaysian flag was raised for the first time
• Take a look at the nearby Jamek Mosque
• Enjoy lunch at Brickfields, KL’s Little India. Take a stroll and soak it all in
• Visit the Skybridge at the famous Petronas Twin Towers. I recommend you buy tickets in advance
• Wander through KLCC Park
• Have sunset cocktails at SkyBar and enjoy unmatched views of Petronas
• Watch the Symphony Fountain Light Show at KLCC Park

Day 2 Explore Kuala Lumpur’s Variety

Today, you get to enjoy a great mixture of attractions which will show you why Kuala Lumpur is such a great place to visit. Starting at the famous Batu Caves, you’ll also be surrounded by rainforest, enjoy great views of KL and shop at modern shopping centres. Finish the day eating great food and hitting up the infamous drinking street.

• Start the day at the enigmatic Batu Caves. Walk to the top of the coloured stairs, check out the temples and look back over KL
• Visit the tropical rainforest in the heart of KL at KL Forest Eco Park
• Get high in KL at the KL Tower for fabulous views
• Shop in Bukit Bintang
• Eat fabulous food at Jalan Alor Food Street
• Have a drink at Changkat Bukit Bintang Street

Day 3 Kuala Lumpur’s Museums, Islam And Food

Today is a great mixture of enjoying how beautiful Kuala Lumpur can be combined with learning more about its history and Islam. Finish the day with an amazing food tour through Chinatown.

• Start the day at the beautiful KL Bird Park . Enjoy both the birds and the gardens
• Visit the impressive National Mosque
• Learn at the Islamic Arts Museum
• Discover Malaysia’s history at the National Museum
• Enjoy an amazing food tour through KL’s Chinatown. Find it here

Where To Stay In Kuala Lumpur

Here are our best options for each budget. Pick the one that corresponds to yours.

LUXURY – Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur

For awesome views of the Petronas Twin Towers in a central spot with direct access to KLCC Park, you can’t go wrong at the Traders Hotel. There are a range of room types with huge windows for great views. You can also choose to stay in a room with Club Lounge access where you get special food and drinks.

There are also many other facilities including the Sky Bar which forms part of your Kuala Lumpur itinerary for excellent sunset views of the Towers. There is an indoor swimming pool, gym and day spa all for a very affordable price.

Click here for the latest prices or here to read my full review.

MID RANGE – Berjaya Times Square Hotel

The Berjaya Times Square Hotel has one of our favourite locations for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur thanks to being directly above the huge Berjaya Times Square shopping centre. This means easy access to hundreds of shops, restaurants and even a big indoor theme park.

It’s also home to one of the biggest swimming pools I have seen in a city hotel and many other facilities. Room types vary and include apartment-style rooms making this an extra good choice for families or groups. Prices are excellent and we have stayed here many times.

Click here for the latest prices or read our full review here .

BUDGET – Hotel Olympic

For bargain seekers, the Hotel Olympic is a solid choice central to many of Kuala Lumpur’s attractions. It is moments away from the new Merdeka 118 and two metro stations. It is also just a short walk from KL’s fabulous Chinatown.

Rooms are all air-conditioned (you will need it!) with private bathrooms and TVs. They also have a kettle and free wifi. Rooms range from double/twin to quad configuration. There are also suite options including a fabulous junior suite for families with a double bed and super cool bunk beds (built to look like a house) with a slide.

It’s also colourful and modern with a restaurant and convenience store on-site.

Click here for the latest prices.

If you would like something cheaper and don’t mind staying in a room without a window, also consider the Big M Hotel here . This is also conveniently located in Chinatown.

If you would like more options, read our full guide to the best accommodation in Kuala Lumpur for all budgets here.

Day 4 Fly To Langkawi

Today, you take the short flight to Langkawi leaving the bright lights of Kuala Lumpur behind. You can read more about travelling from KL to Langkawi here.

Langkawi is a beautiful tropical island off the north west coast of Malaysia near the border with Thailand. It has stunning scenery, great beaches and many fun attractions and activities. Many of Malaysia’s best resorts are located here and some time in Langkawi is the perfect accompaniment to Kuala Lumpur in a Malaysia one week itinerary.

• Take a flight to Langkawi in the morning. Find the best prices here
• On arrival in Langkawi, take a taxi to your hotel or book a transfer here to make things extra easy
• Enjoy the afternoon at your hotel or at the beach
• In the early evening, head to Pantai Cenang for sunset drinks and dinner. Yellow Cafe is a good place for sunset drinks
• If you want to party tonight, this is the area to be

Day 5 Explore Langkawi

Today, you are going to explore the island of Langkawi. Hire a car or taxi for the day and get going!

• There are many attractions in Langkawi but they can be quite spread out. I recommend you go through this list and pick out your favourite
• I particularly recommend the zipline adventure and the kayaking Mangrove tour. Ignore any cruising and the SkyCab as they are coming up next!
• In the evening, head to one of Langkawi’s night markets. They change location every night of the week. See the schedule here

Day 6  Langkawi Nature

Langkawi is famous for its gorgeous natural attractions and today you will explore them.

• In the morning, head to Langkawi SkyCab and SkyBridge for some of the most beautiful scenery in Malaysia
• In the afternoon, if you are staying at a luxurious resort, it’s time to enjoy it! Relax and enjoy what it offers. Otherwise, head to Pantai Tengah for a beautiful beach with services but without the huge crowds

Day 7 Langkawi Cruising

For your final day in your one week Malaysia itinerary, it’s time to enjoy Langkawi from the sea! This is the most beautiful and enjoyable way to explore this part of the world.

• Explore the Langkawi archipelago on a half day Langkawi Island Hopping adventure. These tours include beaches, optional snorkelling and eagle watching. Click here to book a good one now or read our full guide to Langkawi island hopping tours here
• Relax in the afternoon or go shopping at Cenang Mall and Zon Shopping Paradise in Pantai Cenang
• Finish your final day in Langkawi with a stunning sunset cruise. Click here to book now

You can read more details on all of the activities mentioned in Langkawi here.

Where To Stay In Langkawi

Luxury – the datai langkawi review.

This 5-star resort is a luxurious favourite. Not only is it located in a beautiful setting between the rainforest and a private beach, but it has all the facilities of a top resort. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want luxury.

There are three pools (one for adults, one for families and one for toddlers), water sports, a health club and many nature activities both for children and adults. There are many room types, but the downside is that it is removed from most attractions so factor in lots of taxi rides if you want to explore the island.

The Datai also has four restaurants and two shops. Rates include breakfast and minibar and the villas also have a private butler service.

Click here for the latest prices .

MID RANGE – Camar Resort

If you like being close to the action, this beachfront hotel in Pantai Tengah is close to the main area of Pantai Cenang. In addition to the beach, there is a huge pool, gym and on-site restaurant.

There is a huge range of room types including private villas and family suites. It’s very good value given the location.

BUDGET – Adya Hotel

The Adya Hotel Langkawi is a great choice for bargain hunters who love being in a central spot (it’s located in the main town, Kuah) but don’t mind being away from the beach. The Adya Hotel has a shopping centre next door and has two swimming pools (one is ladies only). It also has a gym and restaurant.

With all of this and solid room standards with air-conditioning, private bathrooms and flatscreen TVs, this is a great mid-range hotel at a budget price tag.

You can find more options for where to stay in Langkawi here .

Final Notes

Instead of a 7 days Malaysia itinerary, you could turn this into a Malaysia 6 days itinerary by removing one day in Langkawi. Pick which day least appeals and remove it. Or, if you prefer to be active on trips, you could remove the relaxing on day 6 in the afternoon and do the day 7 activities then.

If you are looking for a Malaysia itinerary 8 days, you have two choices. Pick whether you would like more time in Kuala Lumpur or Langkawi and add a day to that destination and then simply do less each day in that destination to spread it across an extra day.

If you would prefer to see an extra destination in Malaysia instead, I recommend spending an extra night in Kuala Lumpur and doing this day tour to Melaka . Melaka is an interesting place quite different to Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi and you are sure to enjoy it.

You can also get to Melaka very easily by booking our taxi service here.

Malaysia Itinerary: 5 Days

If you are looking for a Malaysia 5 days itinerary, I recommend you don’t go to Langkawi. You still can if you don’t mind moving fast but with just a couple of nights, I would focus on Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding area instead.

So for a 5 days trip to Malaysia, I recommend doing days 1 – 3 above. Day 4, I recommend you visit Batu Caves and follow the bonus 4 day mentioned here. Then on day 5, head to Melaka on a day trip. You can book that here.

If you are looking for a Malaysia itinerary 6 days and aren’t much of a beach person, you could also follow this 5 day Malaysia itinerary and spend an extra day returning to whatever you loved most in Kuala Lumpur.

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

Malaysia Itinerary: 10 Days

The following 10 days in Malaysia itinerary is exactly what you should do with a week and a half.

This timeframe is perfect to really get a good introduction to Malaysia by adding two more of the best tourist destinations in Malaysia to the one week itinerary. You don’t just get to see the capital and beaches but also UNESO-listed George Town and get to eat some of the best food in the world. The highlights of this Malaysia holiday itinerary are:

• Enjoy the best Indian, Chinese and Malay food in KL
• Eat the best food in Ipoh and Penang
• Explore the historic centres of Ipoh and George Town
• Enjoy the most beautiful coastline in Malaysia

Let’s start this Malaysia vacation guide!

Days 1 – 3 Kuala Lumpur

Follow the 3-day Malaysia city tour itinerary for Kuala Lumpur above.

Day 4 Explore Ipoh

Today, you leave Kuala Lumpur for the pretty city of Ipoh just over three hours bus journey north-west of Kuala Lumpur. Ipoh has a gorgeous Old Town area with fun street art, beautiful surrounding scenery and is known for having some of the best food in the country. You are sure to love your quick stopover!

• Take a morning bus to Ipoh ( book it here ) or take an easy taxi transfer ( book it here )
• Take a taxi to your hotel and drop off your bags
• Have one of Ipoh’s famous white coffees and egg tarts at Nam Heong White Coffee Shop .
• Spend the afternoon walking around the Old Town following the Ipoh Heritage Trail. You can download the map and more information on the sights here
• Take your time and keep a look out for Ipoh’s famous street art and gorgeous laneways
• Have dinner at the Tong Sui Kai Hawker Centre and try as many dishes as you can. Ipoh’s specialty dishes, like Ipoh laksa, ayam garam (salted chicken) or any of Ipoh’s special noodle dishes like Gai Si Hor Fun (shredded chicken noodles) or Chee Chong Fun, are especially recommended

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

We can book a taxi for you between anywhere in peninsular Malaysia. Travel straight from one hotel to your next without any fuss or sweat.

You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Where To Stay In Ipoh

Regalodge is a solid mid range hotel option not far from the Old Town of Ipoh. There’s a restaurant and day spa, and the service is great.

There are a variety of room types from standard double hotel rooms to family suites. They are all a good standard with air-conditioning, private bathrooms and flatscreen TVs. It’s an amazing price for this standard of hotel.

You can find more options for where to stay in Ipoh here .

Day 5 Temples And Beaches

Today, you finish exploring Ipoh by visiting the surrounding temples and then take a bus on to Penang.

• Grab a taxi to visit a couple of Ipoh’s cave temples at Sam Poh Tong Temple and Kek Lok Ton Temple. Make sure you cover your shoulders and knees and wear sturdy footwear
• Eat a quick lunch before catching a bus or private taxi to Penang. This journey takes just over two hours and you can book a ticket here for the bus or make it super easy and book your private taxi here.

Penang island is one of the most popular Malaysia vacation destinations off the west coast of Malaysia. It has long served as a link between Asia’s two halves and, as such, has a more diverse culture. Its capital, George Town, has a UNESCO World Heritage listed centre. Penang isn’t just about tourist cities in Malaysia though. There are beaches, mountainous jungle and the best food in Malaysia.

• Drop your bags at your hotel before heading to Batu Ferringhi, the popular beach area. If you like water sports, go parasailing. Otherwise, relax with a drink on the beach at the Bora Bora by Sunset bar
• Eat dinner at Long Beach Kafe. This hawker centre has many delicious food choices
• Visit the surrounding night market

Day 6 Explore Penang

Today, you are exploring Penang particularly its UNESO-listed centre.

• Head to the funicular tram for a ride up Penang Hill for great views. Read more about Penang Hill here
• Visit nearby Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Consider doing this morning tour to make it easy and to learn more. Otherwise, take taxis
• Have lunch in Little India in George Town
• While in George Town, visit Peranakan Mansion and learn about Penang’s original people. Then head to Fort Cornwallis and the museum at Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. I recommend you walk around if the heat will allow it so you can take everything in and to keep a look out for Penang’s famous street art
• Consider taking this amazing food tour of George Town which starts around 4pm. You’ll see more of George Town and really get to enjoy and know the food. You can see my full review of this tour here (including what we ate)
• Otherwise, walk via Love Lane to Kapitan Keeling Mosque. You need to dress modestly to enter, and there are gowns on site you can borrow (if you do the food tour, you’lll visit all these places on the tour)
• Stroll down Armenian Street, once the home of Chinese clan-houses and secret societies. Today it has been gentrified and is home to many shops and cafes. This is also where you will find the famous “kids on a bicycle” mural
• You could also do this sightseeing tour instead to make things easier
• For dinner, head to another hawker centre. Some good options are New Lane Hawker Centre, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre and Sri Weld Food Court – pick whichever is most convenient for you.

Where To Stay In Penang

Luxury – shangri-la’s rasa sayang resort and spa.

The 5-star Rasa Sayang is set in a beautiful spot by one end of the beach in Batu Ferringhi. It’s only a short walk from the action of Batu Ferringhi where you can relax and feel a world away while lounging by the pool or in its spacious gardens. There are countless facilities here including multiple pools, restaurants, gym, kids club and golf course.

There are a variety of room types from doubles to family rooms. For a treat, book a room in the Rasa Wing which includes special benefits such as breakfast, afternoon tea, cocktails and pre-dinner canapes.

MID RANGE – Bayview Hotel George Town

This business style hotel is in a great location in George Town. It offers a pool, gym and a 360 degree revolving restaurant!

You will find a variety of room types including family options and suites for extra space.

This is all at a great value price given the location.

BUDGET – Chulia Heritage Hotel

If you are on a Malaysia backpacking itinerary. you will appreciate this budget friendly option in a central part of George Town. This is a simple hotel with bicycles available but without extra facilities and services.

Despite the low price tag, all rooms are a good standard with air-conditioning, flatscreen TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Depending on your budget, you can pick a private or shared bathroom. There are family room options as well as regular twins and doubles.

You can find more great places to stay in Penang here.

Day 7 Head To Langkawi

This morning, it’s time to leave Malaysia’s cities behind for one of the best holiday spots in Malaysia, Langkawi.

I recommend you fly between the two places as travelling overland is a lot more mucking around. You can read about your transport options here.

If you fly, you can book a transfer here to your hotel.

• Travel to Langkawi in the morning
• In the afternoon, take it easy in your resort or on the beach at Pantai Cenang
• In the evening, head to Pantai Cenang for sunset drinks and dinner. Yellow Cafe is a good place to sit for sunset drinks.
• If you want to party tonight, Pantai Cenang is the place to be

Days 8 – 10 Enjoy Langkawi

Follow days 5-7 in the 7-day itinerary above.

Malaysia Itinerary: 2 Weeks

When designing a Malaysia 2 week itinerary, I recommend basing it on the 10 day itinerary above but with extra time everywhere and visiting Melaka on a day trip. Read through the 10-day itinerary before going through the Malaysia two week itinerary as it is more detailed.

Below, I quickly share this Malaysia 2 weeks itinerary.

Days 1 – 5 Kuala Lumpur

Follow the 3-day Kuala Lumpur itinerary above for the first three days.

On day 4, pick one of the bonus 4th day activities you can find this in this Kuala Lumpur itinerary . This includes visiting either the Genting Highlands , Putrajaya or Sunway Lagoon for theme park fun.

On day 5, do a day trip to Melaka .

Day 6 Travel to Ipoh

Take it easy in the morning returning to any favourite spots in Kuala Lumpur. After lunch, take a bus to Ipoh ( book it here ) or treat yourself to an affordable private taxi ( book here ) to save some time. After checking in, enjoy a quick wander in the Old Town before dinner.

Day 7 Exploring Ipoh

Ipoh has a gorgeous Old Town area with fun street art, beautiful surrounding scenery and is known for having some of the best food in the country. Today, you explore the best it has to offer.

• Start the day with one one of Ipoh’s famous white coffees and egg tarts at Nam Heong White Coffee Shop
• Spend the morning walking around the Old Town following the Ipoh Heritage Trail. You can download the map and more information on the sights here
• In the afternoon, grab a taxi to visit a couple of Ipoh’s cave temples at Sam Poh Tong Temple and Kek Lok Ton Temple. Cover your shoulders and knees and wear sturdy footwear

Day 8 Penang’s Beaches

Today, it’s time to move on to the awesome island of Penang!

• Catch a bus to Penang. This journey takes just over two hours and you can book a ticket here . Alternatively, a taxi from Ipoh is very affordable and is faster and easier. Book it here.
• Drop your bags at your hotel before heading to Batu Ferringhi, the popular beach area. If you like water sports, go parasailing or you can try a banana boat ride
• Late afternoon, relax with a drink on the beach at the Bora Bora by Sunset bar

Day 9 Explore Penang

Follow day 6 of the 10 day itinerary above.

Days 10 – 13 Enjoy Langkawi

Follow days 7-10 of the 10 day itinerary above.

Day 14 Final Day

For your final day in this Malaysia itinerary 14 days, repeat anything you have loved in Langkawi so far, relax at your resort or visit some more places in this list of best things to do in Langkawi.

Malaysia Itinerary: 3 Weeks+

With three plus weeks in Malaysia, you have plenty of time to add in another region of Malaysia.

I recommend you follow the two week Malaysia itinerary above or you could follow the 10 day one instead if you like to move fast and see a lot.

If you are looking for a Malaysia 3 week itinerary, you can then spend the rest of your time following an itinerary east coast Malaysia or head to Borneo to explore a very different part of Malaysia.

If you have 4+ weeks, you could consider doing all of the above!

Here are some suggestions for an east coast Malaysia itinerary and a Borneo Malaysia itinerary for 7 – 10 days.

East Coast Malaysia itinerary: 7+ Days

This itinerary takes you to the best islands and most interesting cities on the east coast.

Day 1: Fly to Kota Bharu . This will take two flights. Click here to find flights. Check in to your hotel and take a walk around the attractions in Kota Bharu.

Days 2 – 3: Leave early for Kuala Besut and then a ferry across to the Perhentian Islands ( read how to do this here ). Stay 2 nights on the Perhentian Islands enjoying what these islands have to offer. This is primarily enjoying the beach, hiking and snorkelling/diving.

Days 4-5: Catch a boat to Redang Island ( see how here ) for more gorgeous Malaysia Island time for the next two nights. Read more about Redang Island here.

Day 6: Take a ferry to Kuala Terengganu. Explore this city

Day 7: Finish exploring Kuala Terengganu and fly back to Kuala Lumpur

With an extra three nights, you could spend longer at the locations above or also head to Cherating Beach and Kuantan and catch a bus or flight back to Kuala Lumpur from here.

A long-distance taxi is a great way to speed up your exploration of the region and is affordable. Find out prices and book here.

If you are trying to work out which east coast island to visit, read our guide here to whether Perhentian Islands, Redang Island or Tioman is best!

Borneo Malaysia Itinerary: 7+ Days

This Malaysia trip guide takes you to the best of the state of Sabah. Another alternative would be to spend a whole week in Kuching doing day trips to the jungle and surrounding attractions.

Day 1: Fly to Kota Kinabalu. This will take two flights from Langkawi. Click here to find flights.

Day 2: Explore Kota Kinabalu. Consider visiting Gaya Island or the surrounding islands or the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Read our guide to Kota Kinabalu here.

Day 3:  Climb Mt Kinabalu or take the easy option and enjoy Mount Kinabalu from some hot springs on this tour.

Day 4: Catch a bus or fly to Sandakan. Arrive as early as possible as there are some great things to do here. Explore the amazing wildlife attractions around this city. Head to the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary and the Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Centre if you can fit it in. (You will have to push this to day 5 if you climb the mountain.)

Day 5: Visit Turtle Island for an amazing overnight experience getting to enjoy a tropical island then viewing a female turtle laying her eggs and other turtle related activities. More information here.

Day 6: Arrive back in Sandakan and take an overnight tour to explore the awesome wildlife at Kinabatangan River . Read more here

Day 7: Return to Sandakan and fly back to Kuala Lumpur

With an extra three nights, you could spend longer at the locations above or fly onto Miri and explore Gunung Mulu National Park.

I hope with these suggestions, you can make the best 3 week itinerary Malaysia for you!

Map Of Malaysia Travel Itinerary

The following map shows the 10 day and the 2 week trip for Malaysia. The one week trip is a simplified version of this with Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur.

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

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

I hope this has helped you create your best itinerary Malaysia! To help you plan your whole trip, click here for our ultimate guide or find all our planning guides here . If you plan to visit Singapore as well, find our best Singapore and Malaysia itineraries here . You can also find our best road trip itineraries 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.

Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

Malaysia – The Ultimate 7 Day Travel Itinerary + Guide

The 7 Day Malaysia Travel Itinerary

Surrounded by beautiful beaches, lush greenery, high-towering skyscrapers and bustling metropolitan life, Malaysia is a wonderful multicultural paradise for all kind of travellers. Although many travellers treat Malaysia (and Singapore) as hop-over or pass-through countries for their south-east travel, Malaysia actually has a lot more to offer. Here’s our guide to planning your 7 days trip to Malaysia, including the Best Tours in Malaysia , so as to experience the best of everything! 

There actually are two different regions in Malaysia – Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Malaysian Borneo including Sabah ). In this travel itinerary, we have covered Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands and Langkawi. The best time to visit Malaysia is between March to October. Since Malaysia is a tropical country, the temperature and humidity are high all year round. 

Reaching Malaysia is very easy too. There are direct flights to Kuala Lumpur from all major international airport around the globe and the flight-frequency is particularly high if you are travelling from an Asian country. Malaysia also has relative easy rules for travel-visa. A vast majority of the country can avail visa-on-arrival and for others, travel visa to Malaysia can be obtained online, without any hassle.

PS – Natvisa.com is a popular service that provides superb visa processing services.

Another step that has been taken in Malaysia towards the digital future is introduction of eSIM. eSIM is an embedded SIM that is built directly into electronic devices rather than using a physical SIM card allowing users to activate and switch mobile plans directly from their devices instead of having to insert or replace a physical SIM card. It makes life a lot more easy for travellers travelling to Malaysia. At the moment, Malaysia eSIM is using the network of top operators like Celcom, Digi and Maxis, offering eSIM service for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices, giving customers the flexibility and convenience of having multiple data connections activated on a single device.

Now, let’s dive into our Malaysia travel itinerary and find out the best way to explore this beautiful destination in 7 days.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Malaysia to tick off this 7 Day Malaysia Travel Itinerary –

• Book your Rental Car in Malaysia on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best Malaysia Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator or Klook
• Book your Accommodation in Malaysia on Agoda or Booking.com
• Book your train/bus travel tickets in Malaysia on 12Go.Asia
• Get the best flight deals on Kiwi.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Malaysia, and get access to premium Airport Lounges.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Malaysia.

Best Hotels in Kuala Lumpur

Day 2 – kl tower | bukit bintang | jalan alor food street, day 3 – putrajaya | kl china town | kl bird park, best hotels in cameron highlands, best hotels in ipoh, best hotels in langkawi, share this:, day 1 – kuala lumpur.

Just like most other Malaysian trips, ours too started from the capital city Kuala Lumpur, which is one of the Best Places to Visit in Malaysia . This skyscraper-filled metropolitan is not just about the Twin Towers. KL has many more amazing places and offers a plethora of pleasing experiences.

We started our first day by are heading straight to Batu Caves temple by cab. Although KL public transport is fantastic, a taxi or ‘grab’ makes life easier (trains are available and it takes 30 mins from KL Sentral). Batu Caves temple bears a gigantic golden statue of Murugan Swami at the gate. Also, these 140 feet (42.67m) tall statue is adorned with 270+ steps, which leads to the cave’s entrance. Be careful of the cheeky monkeys around you and it actually better not to feed them. 

There is no entry fee and you are free to explore the depths of this cave, as is an internal structure is comfortable, and shrines are lined up with rocky walls. 

Pro tip – Try to visit Batu caves early in the morning so as to get a free-from-crowd and Instagram-worthy photo of the colourful stairway!

Another advantage of starting the day early is you can also visit the Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Center , only 90 km from Batu caves. Kuala Gandah is a tranquil Elephant sanctuary that allows visitors to come into close contact with one of the world’s most majestic creatures. You can see the Elephants taking bath in the wild and also feed them with your own hands. 

Also, the road trip from Batu caves to the Elephant sanctuary is full of lush greenery, postcard-perfect landscape with village homes and locals selling fruits by the highway. 

After a pleasant time at Batu Caves and Kuala Gandah, we returned back to KL city, because how can Day-1 be over without the icon of Malaysia. In the evening, it was time for the capital city’s most famous attraction – the iconic Petronas Towers !

These silver skyscrapers are 88 – storey tall and connected with a Skybridge on 41st and 42nd Floors, the observation deck is on the 86th floor. Since we had already bought the “skip the queue” tickets in advance (highly advisable), we didn’t have to wait long.

Pro-tip: Try to time your observation deck visit just before sunset, so that you can get the ‘light-view’ and ‘night-view’ both!

On the base of this stunning commercial place, there is a Suria KLCC, and Petronas Philharmonic Concert Hall. Also, don’t miss the musical fountain (once every 30mins) right in front of KLCC’s main entrance. 

Dinner near Petronas Tower can be checked out at best-rated KL restaurants at Petronas towers. The popular one’s Little Penang Café, Lai Ho peen, Madam Kwans.  If you are small budgeter, enjoy the Food trucks present in open space. They have the best of international dishes with superb variety.  You will also find the Petrosains Museum and Kuala Lumpur Aquarium, Kids Water Park, and it’s free for all. 

PS – Grab the Klook Kuala Lumpur Pass to save up to 30% on attraction costs in Kuala Lumpur.

Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur |  EQ Kuala Lumpur | The RuMa Hotel and Residences |  Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur | Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur

On the 2nd day, it’s time for the KL Tower and the area surrounding it. KL Tower is another tourist attraction which specifically, is a communications tower.  This is 7th tallest freestanding tower, which has a high-speed elevator to take visitors from the base to top. The observation deck offers a 360-degree view of KL city and also has a revolving restaurant. At the base, there is an Upside-Down House, forest park, F1 experience and a mini-zoo. 

KL Forest Eco-park , a great family-friendly destination, is few meters from KL tower. There is 100-yr old Jelutong Tree standing alongside the tower which actually in Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. It is a natural rainforest, that too right in the centre of the city. Rather than taking every trail, I would recommend taking a Canopy Walk that allows you to enjoy the experience from the treetops. 

Next on our list was the Bukit Bintang district. This is the heart of KL city , where you will see malls everywhere. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, trinkets, and ever-changing fashionable clothing, electronics and accessories.  All the shelves are stuffed with international brands and knockoffs too!! This is a haven for the shopaholics!!.  Check out Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Lot 10, Sungei Wang Plaza, Starhill Gallery, Berjaya Times square. 

Towards to end of Day-2, we headed to Jalan Alor Food Street – must-visit for a complete KL experience. This street is the hub of street food in KL .  Here, you can try dimsums, grilled skewers and handcrafted famous fried-ice-creams, which are some of the Best Things to Eat in Malaysia . BBQ chicken and satay sticks are too good at Wong Ah Wah , is a famous eatery on this street.

On the third day in KL, we visited the spectacular Blue Mosque and Putrajaya – the administrative office town of Malaysia. But both these places are outside KL and if you are not keen on going out of KL, below are some of the options to visit in KL itself.

KL China town is one of the most exciting and no one is going to hassle you. Petaling Street is a well-known bargaining place with colourful markets, impressive bars around, sophisticated cocktail joints and best backpacker hotspots –The Berlin KL. Both, day as well as night walking tours are entertaining. 

Amongst the 5 most popular gardens, Asean Sculpture Garden features numerous sculptures and it is a peaceful place surrounded by botanical gardens. Butterfly Park Garden is a beautiful home to more than 5000 species of butterflies. Entrance fees are applicable.  

KL Bird Park is a world full of spectacular birds and a tropical paradise not to be missed by all. It is also the world’s largest covered bird park. 

Brickfields and Little India is also a must-visit district, which is the centre of colonial architecture, harmonious multicultural communities. Little India is an “another world” homely place for Indians, where you can browse around Indian restaurants, textile shops, dancing and singing with Indian Bollywood music. 

Pro-Tip: For hiring a cab in KL, we highly recommend that you download the Grab App . We noticed that it was more frequent and less price as compared to Uber.

Day 4 – Cameron Highlands

After completely enjoying KL, we took a bus from KL Central and headed to Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Highlands is of the most favoured places to visit in Malaysia. We started our day early at BOH plantations, for hiking among greenery and watching tea leaves picking activity is one the most favourite experiences in the entire trip. This is the largest producer of flowers and Tea in Malaysia. 

Cameron Valley Tea House 1 and 2 are beautiful locations where you can enjoy a yummy lunch, with panoramic views of the tea plantation s. We preferred Tea House 1 because it has a lovely waterfall, only a 5-10 minute walk up the hill.

Day 5 – Cameron

A beautiful way to start your 2nd day in the hill of Cameron is Time Tunnel Museum. It is the first memorabilia museum in Malaysia. Here you can check out over 4000 items on display about the way of life in Malaysia during the pre-War years, many historical photographs, and relive childhood memories. 

Cameron highlands also offer many strawberry farms and flower gardens for a leisurely evening stroll.

Additionally, Ipoh is just an hour’s drive from Cameron highlands. Ipoh is another unique place, especially for its streets filled with spectacular wall art. 

Pro Tip: When you visit Malaysia you can find exclusive discounts on your hotel bookings at Booking.com and Agoda and the best tours on Klook .

Day 6 and Day 7 – Langkawi

The last 2 days of our Malaysia trip was spent on the pristine islands of Langkawi. For us, Langkawi was love at first sight – primarily because of the view from the flight-window. Although being an archipelago of small islands, there are plenty of interesting places to visit and things to do in Langkawi .

We started our first day in Langkawi by visiting its most famous icon – the Sky Bridge and Sky Cab. Langkawi Sky Bridge is a cable-stayed 125-metre long curved walking bridge in Malaysia which is 2170 feet above sea-level. For me, the best part of the entire experience was the cable-car-ride – Sky Cab. It is by far the most exciting cable-car-ride I have ever done!

Pro-tip : If you are going during peak season, you can buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues .

After enjoying the spectacular panoramic views from the Sky Bridge, you can come down to experience many more interesting SkyGliding things at the base. Attractions like SkyRex (ride simulations), SkyDome (360 degrees 3D image projection theatre) and 3D Art Gallery will definitely fill you will excitement. 

While returning, don’t forget to visit the beautiful black-sand beach, which is only a few kilometres from Sky Bridge.

On the second day in Langkawi, take the Langkawi Mangrove tour – a speed boat ride through the Kilim Geoforest Park. The speed boat ride (usually 3 hours), which is one of the Best Tours in Malaysia , will take you through the different mangrove islands of Langkawi. A major attraction of this boat ride is watching eagles hunt for fishes – it is a sight like no other.

And, then the last afternoon and evening of your wonderful Malaysia trip can be spent at the beautiful Pantai Cenang Beach and also shopping around anywhere on Langkawi.

Pro-Tip: T he entire island of Langkawi is duty-free shopping! So, we recommend you can save all your shopping for Langkawi!

PS – Grab the Klook Langkawi Pass to save up to 30% on attraction costs in Langkawi.

In the end, we are sure that this 7-day travel itinerary for Malaysia will definitely help you to have a great vacation and you will be able to make the best of your time. Having said that, don’t forget to Pin this One Week Malaysia Travel Itinerary , for ready reference in the future.

You can also enhance your experience by taking the time to learn the basics of the language before your trip. You can take Malay lessons online, so this is something that you can do with ease and convenience – and it can help you to enjoy a more enriching experience when you visit Malaysia.

If you enjoyed reading this 7 Day Malaysia Itinerary and Travel Guide , you might want to check out some other 7 Day Travel Guides and Itineraries , for other Asian / South East Asian destinations as well.

• 7 Day Phuket Dive + Travel Itinerary
• 3 Day Chiang Mai Travel Itinerary
• Weekend in Bangkok – 3 Day Travel Itinerary
• 7 Day Japan Travel Itinerary
• The 7 Day Myanmar Road Trip Itinerary
• 7 Day Road Trip to Bhutan – The Last Shangri La
• One Week in Kerala – God’s Own Country
• The Epic 7 Day Leh Ladakh Road Trip Itinerary
• One Week in Cambodia – Travel Guide and Itinerary

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Malaysia Travel Blogs

These are all of my malaysia travel blogs.

From exploring the beaches of Langkawi to sampling delicious Malaysian food and even riding the SkyCab cable car to the top of the mountains, find out the best places to travel to in Malaysia here, in my latest Malaysia travel blogs.

Happy exploring!

Best Time To Visit Langkawi, Malaysia

From the beautiful warm and sunny summer season to the cooler, rainier climate of the winter months, find out the best time to visit Langkawi.

Where to stay in langkawi for all budgets.

Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing beach break or planning some exciting adventures, find out where to stay in Langkawi with this handy guide to the island’s best hotels.

15 things to do in langkawi, malaysia.

From the cable car and a magical sky bridge nestled in the clouds, to spas, mangrove tours, island hopping and markets, there are plenty of things to do in Langkawi, Malaysia.

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• Travel blogs on Malaysia

Here you will find all my articles on Malaysia

Malaysia, a country which really surprised us! Most people only visit Kuala Lumpur during a transfer to another destination, but Malaysia is so much more and definitely worth a visit! From old cities such as Melaka to the highlands with tea plantations like the Cameron Highlands. But also wonderful islands and the Borneo jungle!

We traveled around Malaysia for 35 days, visiting among others the island of Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur and Borneo. On this page you will find a lot of information about Malaysia and all the blogs I wrote about this beautiful country.

The ultimate itinerary for three weeks of backpacking in Malaysia

Below you will soon find an example for the perfect Malaysia itinerary.

Our itinerary for Malaysia was the following : Kuala Lumpur – Melaka – Cameron Highlands – Langkawi – George Town – Kota Kinabalu – Tip of Borneo – Danum Valley

All of our blogs ánd the most important blogs on Malaysia

We wrote a lot of articles about Malaysia. Scroll down to see all the blogs on Malaysia and look here to go directly to the most popular Malaysia articles!

• Malaysia Budget : What does a trip to Malaysia cost?
• The ultimate Malaysia itinerary for 3 weeks!
• Malaysian Borneo itinerary for 2 weeks!
• All you need to know about the Danum Valley !

Facts on our trip through Malaysia:

Period:  December and January Hotels: click here for an overview of the best hotels in Malaysia!   Flight tickets:  click here for the most actual flight deals to Malaysia. How long: 35 days   

Below you will find all my blogs on Malaysia

Melaka trip: the eight best things to do in melaka, malaysia, itinerary malaysian borneo: 2 and 3 weeks of traveling through sabah & sarawak, visit danum valley in borneo: bornean orangutans and a primary rainforest, george town, penang in 3 days: the best activities in this vibrant city in malaysia, langkawi: all you need to know about this beautiful island in malaysia, cameron highlands: three days at the teaplantations of malaysia, kuala lumpur: eight awesome free activities in the capital city of malaysia, malaysia itinerary: the ultimate itinerary for 3 weeks of backpacking in malaysia, budget malaysia: prices and costs of travel and backpacking in malaysia, diary blog malaysia: our time in kuala lumpur, melaka and langkawi, hotel guide malaysia: the best, nicest and coolest hotels and hostels, tip of borneo travel guide: the most beautiful beaches of malaysian borneo, kota kinabalu in borneo: all about this city in sabah, malaysia.

Malaysia Travel Blog

Malaysia is an amazing country located in Southeast Asia. In fact, Malaysia is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It has something for everyone – backpackers, couples, solo travelers, luxury travelers, etc.

Malaysia offers several experiences – from climbing mountains to jungle trekking, from island retreats to scuba diving, from colorful temples to delicious food tours, from the hustle of Kuala Lumpur to relaxing white sand beaches – you should find something that suits your needs and interests.

If you’re planning your first trip to Malaysia, this guide should answer any questions you may have. We’ll talk about travel facts, the best time to visit Malaysia, the best destinations, recommended itineraries, travel costs, travel essentials and how to prepare for your trip.

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is a big and versatile country and depending on your destination, you may be facing different types of seasons. We decided to split this section into three sections to help you understand the seasons in Malaysia. We also added info regarding the Ramadan.

• Mainland southwest
• Mainland northeast

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

Perhentian islands

Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Itineraries

Planning your trip to Malaysia? We created Malaysia itineraries to help you. You can pick the length of your stay and follow our recommended itineraries. We created itineraries for up to one month including our favorite Malaysian destinations. Note that since Borneo is quite far, you can either pick the mainland or Borneo. If you have more time, you could spend time in both places.

• Three weeks
• Kuala Lumpur (1 day)
• Cameron Highlands (2 days)
• Penang (2 days)
• Back to Kuala Lumpur (2 days)
• Penang (3 days)
• Langkawi (3 days)
• Perhentian Islands (3 days)
• Langkawi (5 days)
• Perhentian Islands (5 days)
• Ipoh (3 days)
• Borneo (7 days)

Malaysia Travel Tips & Costs

In this section, you’ll find general information on costs and how to prepare for your trip. Finally, you will find a table that will provide an overview of cost and options depending on your travel budget.

Accommodation

In Malaysia, you’ll find several options when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re a budget traveler or not, you won’t have difficulty to find options. You can find dorms starting at $5 per night.

When it comes to food, you can find different types of restaurants. If you eat local food, you can eat for less than MYR 30. Obviously, you may find elegant restaurants around the country and you can pay more if you wish. The cheapest options are usually in small local restaurants and markets.

Some activities such as hiking or beach bumming are free. Although, if you’re planning on visiting temples and National Parks, going on a snorkeling or diving trip, or visiting museums you will have to pay for it. You can browse activities in Malaysia  here to have an idea of the costs involved.

Transportation

In general, it’s pretty easy to get around Malaysia. You can either fly, take a bus or travel by train to reach your destinations. You can reach the islands easily by ferries.

To book your transport between destinations, you can book via 12GO or via a travel agency. Most of the time, your hotel and hostel may be able to arrange it for you.

Safety in Malaysia

Overall, traveling around Malaysia is pretty safe. Of course, you should always lock your valuables especially if you’re staying in a hostel .

 As a female traveler, it’s always smart to avoid dark alleys and walking alone in the dark. Although, been there, done that, and I never had any issues. Note that Malaysia is quite conservative, so you may have unwanted attention – to avoid this, you can dress in a more convervative way. “Cat-callling” happens often in Malaysia – I usually ignore it.

Pickpocketing and phone snatching is a common thing in Malaysia – so be careful when holding your phone in the street – I’ve seen this happens quite a lot. Also, I’ve heard several men having weird encounters at night under alcohol effect, so be careful.

I, myself, hitch-hiked with another female travelers around Malaysia without any problems. I felt safe every time. You can read more about it here .

What to Pack for Malaysia

Universal adapter

Mosquito repellent

Quick-dry towel

Waterproof bag

Visa for Malaysia

Most nationalities get up to 90 days for free. You can verify your visa requirements here .

Preparing Your Trip to Malaysia

Browse flights on Skyscanner to find deals.

Go To Skyscanner

Book your travel insurance for as little as $42/month.

Go To SafetyWing

Booking.com

Find accommodation anywhere in the world.

Go To Booking.com

Check the visa requirements and apply for a visa if needed.

Go To iVisa

Worldpackers

Volunteer abroad in exchange for free accommodation.

Go To Worldpackers

Book transfers, tours, and activities in advance.

Go To Viator

Malaysia eSIM Plans

It’s hard to find a good data plan when you’re traveling. You have to research the best deals, go to a store, and hope they have a prepaid SIM card for travelers and tourists.

And if they don’t? You could be without service for the rest of your trip. Not only is that frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming.

eSIMs are the solution to your travel woes. With an eSIM plan, you can stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, there are no contracts or cancellation fees, so you can change your plan whenever you want.

If you’re looking for an eSIM plan while in Malaysia, then be sure to check out the providers below. They all offer great plans that will keep you connected while you’re there.

$3 OFF with promo code: MELISS2943

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5% OFF with promo code: ABROKENBACKPACK

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Malaysia Blog Posts

Is Penang Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

As with any destination, there are always safety concerns to consider before planning a trip. But generally speaking, Penang is safe for travelers. That being said, it's always important to practice common sense and awareness while traveling anywhere. In this guide,...

Is Kuala Lumpur Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

With its bustling atmosphere, endless entertainment options, and mix of traditional culture and modern architecture, Kuala Lumpur is one of the most exciting Southeast Asian countries to visit. However, Kuala Lumpur is a big city, and Malaysian culture differs from...

Malaysia SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

Visiting Malaysia soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a Malaysia SIM card. In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in Malaysia in person and online. We'll also discuss prepaid Malaysia SIM cards for tourists and eSIMs if...

The 6 Best Places To Live In Malaysia

Are you wondering where the best places to live in Malaysia are? You're in the right place! Southeast Asia is well known for providing expats a comfortable lifestyle at a low cost. However, every southwest Asian country offers its own unique perks. Malaysia is...

Best Airbnb Kuala Lumpur: Where To Stay In Malaysia’s Modern Capital

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination in Malaysia. If you’re traveling around Southeast Asia, you’re going to end up there eventually.  Two reasons for this: cheap flights and shopping break! Ha! Let’s be a bit more serious though - Kuala Lumpur is a great city...

Backpacking Penang Itinerary

Although it is impossible to cover Penang in three days, with a carefully designed itinerary one can indeed make the most of their stay in Penang. After all, there is so much to do and see here, Penang's beaches and jungles, George Town’s hipster cafes and some of the...

Perfect 3 Days In Kuala Lumpur Itinerary

If you're planning 3 days in Kuala Lumpur, here are some fun things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 3 days (more or less) including some great restaurants and cool travel tips! Kuala Lumpur is one of my regular stops in Asia. I’m not a big city person, but hey, how could I...

How To Get To Kuala Lumpur From Singapore

Wondering how to get from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur? Or even the other way around - from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore?  The best way to travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur is by flight, but if you are on a budget, traveling by bus would be the cheapest option....

Perfect One Week In Malaysia Itinerary

If you're heading to Kuala Lumpur next, here's what you should do in one week in Malaysia. This article features two of the best cities in Malaysia and will help you make the most of your time in Malaysia. Traveling to Malaysia in a week is possible, but you might...

Complete Guide: Best Hostels In Kuala Lumpur

Finding the right hostel in Malaysia, especially while backpacking Kuala Lumpur, can be quite complicated! Kuala Lumpur is such a big city and there are different areas to pick from! After spending six weeks working in a hostel in Kuala Lumpur I’ve been surrounded by...

How Much To Backpack Southeast Asia

How much does it really cost to travel in Southeast Asia? Is it possible to do it very cheap? How much does it cost to move there? We tend to think that life in Asia is super cheap… until we start craving western food, luxury, comfort and too many trips to the 7/11....

Hitchhiking Malaysia: Should You Do It?

A few years back, I hitchhiked around Malaysia. I had no problems at all even though we were two girls. In fact, we had an amazing time and it was a great way to connect with locals along the way. In this article, I'm sharing my tips for hitchhiking in Malaysia as...

Malaysia Travel Blog & Guide

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This Malaysia travel guide will help you plan your trip to Malaysia and let you know what to expect. We cover how to travel in Malaysia, places to see, where to stay, food to try, and more. There are many interesting things to see and do in Malaysia, fun activities, and beautiful places in Malaysia’s cities, towns, countryside, and islands. We’ll help you figure out if Malaysia is for you and plan your itinerary! There are hundreds of posts about Malaysia on the World Travel Family blog, we’ll give you links to the ones you need.

This information is from our first-hand experiences visiting Malaysia many times, and visiting diverse areas of the country. We’ve actively tried to see as much of Malaysia as we possibly can, in both Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, and Malaysia’s islands.

To be honest, Malaysia is not our favourite part of Southeast Asia, we enjoy Thailand and Vietnam more, but Malaysia does have some incredibly interesting experiences to offer.

With plenty of cool things to see and do, along with some special and unique highlights, Malaysia can offer much to travellers or holidaymakers.

Kuala Lumpur is one of our favourite cities in the world and Kuching and Sarawak we think, are fabulous destinations. The Malaysian people tend to be some of the nicest on the planet too, very kind, helpful folk.

We’re able to share with you some Malaysia travel hints, tips, ideas, and suggestions, mostly positive but some negative because travel in Malaysia hasn’t always been plain sailing for us.

We’ve had a few bad experiences in Malaysia over the years including theft, terrible hotels, an environmental disaster, and a ferry breaking down half way between Penang and Langkawi.

We joke about our ” Malaysia curse” and really, you couldn’t make it up. Everything that can go wrong for us in Malaysia, does. 

We are not sponsored by Malaysia tourism so can share honest reviews and opinions.

On this page you can access the information you need to plan your holiday or vacation in Malaysia.

We’ll start by listing our individual posts on destinations in Malaysia, further down the page you’ll find general Malaysia travel information. We include links and tips from a few other travel blogs and travel bloggers too.

Malaysia Travel Blog

Places in Malaysia on the Travel Blog

If you’d like a general overview of what Malaysia offers, we have a post here called,  Malaysia with kids, it gives you the best destinations in Malaysia and practicalities of travel in Malaysia. Below we run through a few key places to see in Malaysia which you’ll probably want to include in your Malaysia itinerary.

We cover facts and personal experiences.

This is the oldest part of our website, you’ll probably be able to tell I was a very new travel blogger when I put together some of these posts.

We most recently visited Malaysia in 2020, when the pandemic was just starting. Malaysia was open to international tourists again in 2022 and at the time of writing facemasks were still required in public places. Check latest updates here, on the official website.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant modern city where you can visit ancient temples in the morning, be in China Town for lunch, while away the afternoon in an up-market mall and watch a spectacular fountain display as the sun goes down.

There is much to keep all of the family busy and Kuala Lumpur with kids is a great choice.

Temples, shopping, architecture, food, art, cultures, history and colonial architecture are easy to find in bustling KL. Possibly Malaysia’s most well known tourist attraction, Batu Caves, is just outside KL (photo above, how to get to Batu Caves from KL here.)

There are some great museums to visit along with the must-see Petronas towers. Don’t miss the Botanic Gardens, the huge bird park is almost next door.

Kuala Lumpur was our first stop when we left Australia back in 2013 and we enjoyed it, it was good to be in a modern city for a while and we loved being able to access authentic Indian food in Malaysia.

We visited Kuala Lumpur again in 2017, 2019 and 2020 and always stay at one of our favourite places in the world, Back Home Kuala Lumpur.

It’s a solid base in the city with all kinds of accommodation from dorms to family rooms, great food nearby and always a warm welcome. Take a look at Back Home here on Agoda. (Agoda are Asia specialists, based in Singapore.)

This hotel is also within walking distance of the free KL buses and KL’s “green lung” KL Forest Eco Park.

We have a collection of posts on Things to do in KL below. If you’re lucky enough to be in KL for the annual Thaipusam Festival (usually in February), be sure to take full advantage of that, both in Chinatown and at Batu Caves. The Sun World waterpark is in, or near, KL.

Malacca or Melaka, an easy bus journey to the south of KL has some beautiful and well-preserved buildings in the old town and a wonderful mix of cultures. You can even book a daytrip to Malacca from KL here to see the sights , it’s worth doing if you’re short of time.

It has it all, Chinese, Indian and Dutch colonial, a remnant of this town’s massive importance in the sea trade routes.

The old town has something of a museum or theme park feel to it and becomes packed with tourists, mostly local, browsing the shops and large night market.

The museums in Malacca are very interesting, this is where you’ll find the museum shaped like a giant ship, it’s great for kids.

At night brightly-painted cycle rickshaws blaring modern pop music are popular with local tourists. The night markets or walking streets are not to be missed and there are good shopping opportunities in Malacca’s converted shop-houses.

Outside the old town is another modern city with modern conveniences. We have a full post covering Malacca with kids and where to stay in Malacca. (opens in new tab so you won’t lose your place). We also have a post on how to get to Malacca from KL.

Ipoh is north of Kuala Lumpur, inland, but on the bus route we took from KL to Penang. We really enjoyed Ipoh and will be back.

Ipoh is a world-famous food destination with visitors arriving for Ipoh white coffee, pandan pastries, tofu, and many other dishes.

Ipoh is also home to The Lost World of Tambun water park. We really enjoyed our day there.

If you have the time, there are dozens of temples, caves, and historic monuments to explore and the Ipoh waterfront walk is very pleasant indeed. Read all about Ipoh Malaysia and things to do in Ipoh in our dedicated post.

The memorial tower to Birch, is very interesting indeed. Read about the mysterious “missing” figure on the tower in our post above.

Ipoh is also, yet another, place in Malaysia filled with ancient shophouses and stunning street art murals. Near Ipoh you will find Kelly’s Castle and some caves to explore.

Penang comprises Penang Island, with its beachside resorts, as well as a section of the mainland. A bridge connects the two.

On the island you will find historic George Town , famous for street art, yet more colonial architecture, and food.

There are any number of tourist attractions on Penang, it’s a huge tourist draw. 

The resort area of Batu Ferringhi is popular for beach holidays. As with Langkawi, an island beach destination, this island is packed with man-made tourist attractions. You can read about the ferry between Penang and Langkawi , and how it broke down for us, in a separate entry.

Gems like Kek Lok Si temple , and Penang’s famous snake temple , are great to visit. But if you want water sports and Hard Rock Hotel, you’ll want to be in Batu Ferringhi where you can enjoy the famous Long Beach food court and other dining options . Check out our guide to where to stay in Penang.

There is also a nature park here, good for a walk and to spot wildlife, plus many fun attractions and places to visit in Penang and Georgetown.

We were robbed twice on Penang on our first trip. Once on a bus by a pickpocket and once from a hotel room. This was unfortunate, so do take precautions against pickpockets.

That said, on our 2nd visit to Penang we had a great stay in Little India, Georgetown, and enjoyed Indian food and the famous Snake Temple.

We can recommend Heritage 16 (click to see it here) modern, family-friendly hostel with large family rooms. One of the most famous Chinese restaurants in Penang is right next door.

• Things to Do on Penang for Families  T here is loads to keep you busy on Penang. The snake temple, Kek Lok Si, butterfly and bug parks, historic sites of Georgetown, modern shopping malls, and a National Park. There are beaches and more and more tourist attractions open all the time. A modern bus system will get you around the island or we found that Uber was good here. We were robbed on a bus, so beware of pickpockets.
• Where to Eat Out in Batu Ferringhi Penang  (for backpackers and travellers) There is McDonalds, the famous food courts, and plenty of upmarket restaurants. Our favourite was an Indian restaurant/food court.
• Penang Kek Lok Si Temple  This is a lovely Chinese-style temple, well worth a visit and the kids had a ball.
• Penang Huge Spiders, Photo of the Week We took the kids along to Penang’s butterfly and bug park. The boys loved holding a giant millipede. This will be great for you if you’re new to the tropics.
• Fort Cornwallis, Georgetown, Penang With Kids An interesting historic fort in Penang. Worth a look and great for the kids to have a run-around.

Legoland Malaysia (Near Johor Bahru)

Superb Legoland Malaysia (and Legoland Water Park Malaysia ) is our favourite global Legoland park by far, we highly recommend a visit and genuinely loved it. You can reserve tickets here.

It’s far to the south of Malaysia, almost on the Singapore border. (Our Singapore section is here)

We travelled by comfortable bus to Johor Baru then less-comfortable bus to the Legoland location where we stayed for 3 nights. It doesn’t make sense to stay in Johor Baru, it’s too far away.

Legoland is aimed at families and younger kids. If you want really big thrill rides and rollercoasters, head further south to Universal Studios Singapore. It’s not far and you can normally travel by bus over the border. We’ve done this. See where to stay in Singapore here.

The Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands lie off Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast. They comprise two main islands, Perhentian Besar or Big Perhentian, and Perhentian Kecil or Small Perhentian. 

Kecil normally has larger volumes of tourists because of greater accommodation options and better prices.

There are a few smaller, uninhabited islands, all within the Perhentian Marine Park.

Tourism to the Perhentian Islands is highly seasonal, as we discovered to our cost, the eastern monsoon causing rough seas and murky waters, you really need to visit between March, maybe April, and October.

We were there too early in the year, February, this isn’t a good time to visit.

Boats run to the Perhentian Islands from the mainland departing Kuala Besut. The speed boat ride should be 30 to 40 mins, reserve a ticket here.

Cameron Highlands

We have visited Cameron Highlands. This area isn’t too far by road from Kuala Lumpur with the drive taking under 3 hours.

This area became popular because its elevation offers cooler temperatures, it is a typical tropical hill station.

This better weather makes the Cameron Highlands famous for tea plantations, strawberry farms, roses, orchards, waterfalls, and forests.

Expect big hotels, high rises, and much commercial activity here. We did find one very nice Chinese temple to visit along with a good Chinese vegetarian restaurant.

I wouldn’t say this was a must-visit in Malaysia, but if you have the time it’s worth a look. You could just book a tour to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur , there’s no need to stay overnight here as we did. This tour includes a visit to Batu Caves, making it good value and a great way to explore Malaysia from KL.

Malay Borneo – Don’t Miss Sarawak!

Borneo and Sarawak are where Malaysia totally won us round.

We were blown away by how lovely the city of Kuching Sarawak is and had wonderful experiences trekking in the jungle, staying in an Iban village longhouse and seeing orangutans and proboscis monkeys, along with the super-sized blooming Rafflesia flower.

You can do all of these things from Kuching plus dozens of other things to see and do in Kuching.

If the people on Peninsular Malaysia are nice, the good folk of Kuching blow niceness out of the water. I’m not kidding!

Kuching is also where we learned to enjoy Malaysian food, why? We finally found good vegetarian and vegan Malay dishes, now they are good!

Kota Kinabalu – Sabah Borneo

Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah, like Sarawak, Malay Borneo. This is where you need to come for Kinabalu National Park, Mount Kinabalu and the White Sandy Beaches Kota Kinabalu .

We have been to Sabah and unfortunately, didn’t enjoy it. This trip was so bad we left early. This was at the start of the pandemic and maybe the whole world was a little crazy at that time.

It was really disappointing and surprising after enjoying Sarawak and Kuching so much. Read about Sabah Malaysia , here.

Langkawi Island

We have been to Langkawi twice and both times found it a bit underwhelming. It is undoubtedly a very beautiful island with picture-postcard beaches and many and varied tourist attractions.

It was the ferry from Langkawi, back to the mainland which broke down halfway through the journey. We seem to attract bad luck in Malaysia!

We also had bad experiences with even top-end resort hotels being of a very low standard and hugely expensive for what they offered.

We were visiting for Ironman Malaysia and we had a lot of problems finding food to fuel our competitor.

I’ll also warn you that our kids had bad experiences with tiny jellyfish here, in Australia we call them sea lice and kids feel them far more than adults.

Stinger season is dependent on time of year in Australia, I guess it may be here too. We may just have been unlucky.

Try the   Ultimate Guide to Langkawi by Wagoner’s Abroad, they talk about family-friendly attractions, tours and watersports in Langkawi as sponsored by Tourism Langkawi.

Malaysia Travel Blog – Tips and Information

How to book hotels and find the best accommodation deals in malaysia.

Agoda are the leading online booking engine for Asia, they are Asia-based and as such have the biggest selection of hotels, resorts, guest houses and hostels, they can also often source the best deals.

We recommend you always check  Agoda  for Asia and certainly for travel to Malaysia.

Because this site finds best possible prices their deals will often be non-refundable. If you’re looking for a refundable reservation try  Booking.com.

To rent a house, condo or apartment in Malaysia for a longer stay give Stayz/ VRBO a try.

Be warned that you don’t get so much for your money in Malaysia. Standards in hotels are lower and prices higher relative to destinations such as Thailand and Vietnam.

The new tourist tax makes Malaysia more expensive again. A 10% AND 6% tax is payable to the hotel on arrival. The 10% seems to cover tips. You should probably read up on this before you go from official sources, it may change again.

Best Time of Year to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is as tropical as you can possibly get.  Actually, we should call this climate Equatorial, for that is what it is.

Temperatures and humidity remain high all year round. Expect to see daytime heat in excess of 30º C at any time of year. All expect short, heavy, tropical downpours in the afternoons.

The duration of these downpours increases in the wettest months, September-October on the West Coast, including Langkawi and towards Sabah and November to February (the North East Monsoon) on the East Coast.

The East Coast has more of a cooling breeze than the West.

April-October is the wet season for Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and the Cameron Highlands, but really, this makes little difference.

The best time to visit is generally considered to be between March and October.

Be aware of seasonal air pollution intensification . Burning off crops causes copious smoke to drift over from Indonesia, the effects can be extremely severe. I was caught up in this natural disaster on my first trip to Malaysia.

What to Wear in Malaysia

Interestingly, there is not much pressure to cover up in Malaysia. I was surprised to find young girls with bare shoulders and short shorts. It was very much anything goes, it surprised me.

There’s no real requirement to cover up other than in formal or religious places. The mix of cultures here means that people follow various dress codes.

To visit mosques or other religious or sacred sites, you will, of course, need to be properly dressed.

We were given the correct clothing when visiting the mosques of Kuala Lumpur. I, as a woman, had to wear a long robe and head covering. Men and boys are sometimes given robes or sarongs. These mosques are well worth visiting and there are several to visit in KL and elsewhere in Malaysia.

You can also visit Chinese and Indian Temples in Malaysia, in these, you’ll likely need to remove shoes and hats.

Travel Costs in Malaysia

We feel that Malaysia works out more expensive than other countries in Southeast Asia (excluding Singapore) and that you get less for your dollar.

Sarawak, Malay Borneo, seems to us significantly cheaper than the mainland.

In 2017 we were seeing lower accommodation costs in Asia generally, it was noticeably cheaper than 2 years previously.

Buses in Malaysia are good value and often nice, modern buses. It depends on which bus company you pick though, we’ve had a couple of bad ones too.

You can catch a bus into Singapore from Kuala Lumpur or from the south.

Some food in Malaysia is ultra-cheap, street food, low-cost Indian restaurants, and so on will cost you cents, elsewhere you’ll pay a lot.

Food can be as cheap or as expensive as you’d like it to be in Malaysia. If you are a budget traveller watch out for heavy use of palm oil and sugar. Also drink prices can vary immensely, always shop around.

Beer is very expensive but available in many shops. We’re not the sort to keep detailed records of our spending, but these guys do. Travel Costs in Malaysia by Or Big Fat Travel Adventure.(couple).

When working out your costs for a Malaysia trip, always factor in your travel insurance and other health essentials. Visa, vaccine, and COVID 19 test requirements are fluctuating too fast for me to include them right now.

Backpacking Malaysia

We have backpacked Malaysia as a family with kids but if you’re looking for information on Backpacking in Malaysia geared towards young singles or couples, try  Backpacking Malaysia by Gamin Traveler.

If you’re used to backpacking in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, etc. Malaysia is very different. We think it’s also a lot more expensive.

Malaysia offers a totally different vibe than other top backpacking destinations in Southeast Asia.

Scuba Diving in Malaysia

Yes, Malaysia is a destination for scuba divers, we are divers, but with kids, it’s hard to find time, check out  Scuba Diving in Malaysia : Tioman , by Phenomenal Globe.

Very soon we’ll be getting the scuba diving sites of Malay Borneo on the Malaysia travel blog, they’re high on our bucket list.

Wildlife in Malaysia

There is incredible wildlife in Malaysia. As you can see from the road sign above!

You may see wild elephants, even pygmy elephants, along with proboscis monkeys, orangutans, binturongs, mouse deer, many reptiles, hornbills, and stunning tropical butterflies.

Various tours exist to allow you to see all of these things.

If you’re only visiting KL, there is a butterfly (and bug) park, a huge bird park, and a central green oasis in the city itself. There is also a zoo which we haven’t visited yet.

Our best places to see wildlife in Malaysia would be the orangutan rescue place outside Kuching, and Bako National Park, also near Kuching, for proboscis monkeys.

Some captive animals we’ve seen in Malaysia aren’t kept so well and the orangutan situation with the palm oil plantations can be worrisome.

Food in Malaysia

You will find excellent Indian food, particularly southern Indian. We’re big fans of Indian food and as soon as we arrive in Malaysia, our first port of call will be an authentic Indian restaurant. We’ve never been disappointed.

If the town you’re in has a Little India, and most do, you’ll probably be best off looking there.

Nyonya cuisine is worth checking out and they say the Chinese is good but in our experience (admittedly limited) all the Chinese we’ve ordered has been not great, other than the Chinese vegetarian restaurant in the Cameron Highlands, which was outstanding. After a handful of bad experiences in Chinese restaurants, we’ve been reluctant to try more when we know we’re safe with Indian. We found nothing like the amazing food we ate in China and I don’t know why that is. Maybe, again, we’ve just had terrible luck.

Be very careful if you have a seafood allergy in Malaysia. I had a bad reaction to a vegetarian laksa in KL and literally had to run to a pharmacy for medication.

We finally started to love Malay food once we found vegetarian and vegan versions of popular dishes such as nasi lamak, rendang, and roti canai. The usual chicken, organs, and dried fish ingredients weren’t for us.

The coffee situation can be bad in Malaysia if you like your coffee black. Dried coffee premix containing powdered milk and sugar can be a regular feature, along with coffee bags. If you like your coffee sweet and milky you should be fine.

These days you can easily find a Starbucks or any number of other coffee chains in the big cities. This is one country where I would certainly take emergency backup tea and coffee or even something like an Aeropress. (see travel coffee makers here)

Malaysia Guide Book

Malaysia Travel Blog – What’s Next

Our Malaysia travel blog and guide is constantly evolving and growing. We’re arriving in Langkawi and travelling further in Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia soon, so a lot more Malaysia content to come. 

I don’t want to come across as negative about Malaysia, if we really disliked it we wouldn’t keep going back to explore more areas. Malaysia does have bags of charm and I always enjoy visiting Kuala Lumpur and long to visit Malacca and Kuching again. 

Unfortunately, we have had a lot of very bad luck in Malaysia, but is it luck? We’ve never been robbed anywhere else in 5 years. We’ve never been on a ferry that’s broken down anywhere else and we never normally struggle to find good food.

The people of Malaysia, the women particularly, have been super kind and friendly so I feel bad leaving less than glowing reviews, but as always, I’m honest. I can only report on our own experiences exploring Malaysia as professional travel bloggers.

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

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Travelling with less clothes and dumpster diving, make money from amazon affiliates, amazon affiliates program blog & tips.

Malaysia is such a brilliant  Asian country to visit. Malaysia is a great  destination for either couples, friends or for families.

You can read all our best posts in this Malaysia travel blog section.

Malaysia with kids

A Malaysia trip with kids is always a good idea! Many family travel bloggers rate Malaysia, together with Singapore, as the top country to visit if you are traveling with younger kids.

Malaysia is an easy country to travel to with kids and there are plenty of kids’ play parks, museums, and centers available to keep the kids busy and occupied.

You can find all the best places to visit in Malaysia with kids here.

We love how welcoming the Malaysians are to kids. It is also easy to visit this country due to the fact that English is so widely spoken.

We visited Malaysia with our 2 old year, so whipped up a video that you can watch about how to travel in Malaysia with a baby/toddler .

There is a wide range of family hotels in Malaysia; plenty of which offer excellent pool facilities and kids club options.

Malaysia Travel Guides

Malaysia is one of the best Asian countries to visit for your first trip to Asia.

You can read our Malaysia holiday guides to:

• Kuala Lumpur with Kids Travel Blog Post
• Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur
• Best time to visit Langkawi Island
• What to do in Langkawi for 3 Days
• Best things to do in Penang in 3 Days
• Top 10 things to do in Melaka
• Best Hotels in Melaka
• How to get from Langkawi to Koh Lipe (or Vice Versa)

Find all of our Malaysia Travel Blog Posts Below

10 Rules of What Not To Do in Kuala Lumpur

Planning a trip to KL and wondering what not to do in Kuala Lumpur to make sure your trip is enjoyable? We’ve got you covered! Kuala Lumpur, or KL as … CONTINUE READING

20 Best Langkawi Hotels With Private Pools (+Villas)

Are you planning a trip to Langkawi in Malaysia and looking for the best hotels and villa options with pools? The good news is that there are several incredible Langkawi … CONTINUE READING

17 Best Hotels in Melaka Malaysia 2024 Guide

Are you looking for the best Melaka hotels? Then our guide to the best hotels in Melaka Malaysia has got you covered! We have compiled a list of 17 amazing … CONTINUE READING

12 Best Penang Hotels With Private Pools

Come to Penang and experience luxurious accommodation with the added bonus of a private pool! Penang is one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its rich culture, diverse … CONTINUE READING

Top 20 Things to do in Kuala Lumpur with Kids

Kuala Lumpur is a fabulous city in Malaysia, known as an amazing cultural melting pot. This city is perfect for families looking for a culturally-rich vacation. There are some great … CONTINUE READING

Top 10 Things To See In Melaka, Malaysia [Travel Guide]

While Melaka, formerly called Malacca,  is not often thought of as one of the top holiday places in Malaysia, it’s actually quite a stunning place to visit. Especially for those interested … CONTINUE READING

Malaysia Travel Tips and Travel Advice

Wondering what you need to know before you go to Malaysia? Worry no more. Our complete list of Malaysia travel tips and helpful Malaysia travel advice has got you covered! … CONTINUE READING

Best Things To Do In 3 Days In Penang (An Itinerary)

Are you organizing your Penang itinerary? Are you wondering what to do in Penang in 3 days? We got you covered! Penang is a destination that offers one of the … CONTINUE READING

Best Places To Visit In Malaysia With Your Family

Are you planning a family holiday in Malaysia? Wondering what are the best places to visit in Malaysia with your family? Everything about Malaysia screams diversity. A melting pot of … CONTINUE READING

How To Get From Langkawi to Koh Lipe (& Vice Versa)

Are you searching for the best way of how to get from Langkawi to Koh Lipe? We got you covered! With its stunning white beaches and opportunities for exploring the … CONTINUE READING

Ideas for a Short Trip in Malaysia: Itinerary Suggestions

Wondering what are the best places to go for a short trip in Malaysia?  If you’re planning a tour of South East Asia, Malaysia is a country you just cannot … CONTINUE READING

Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

If you’re in Kuala Lumpur, things can get pretty exciting even in a day! Kuala Lumpur (KL) is a famous tourist destination and one of the most renowned Asian cities. … CONTINUE READING

Best Time to Visit Langkawi Island in Malaysia

From lush green forests to beautiful white-sand beaches, Langkawi in Malaysia is what comes closest to the textbook definition of a tropical paradise! This archipelago comprising of 99 islands is … CONTINUE READING

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2 Week Malaysia Itinerary For City, Beach & Nature Lovers

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

So you have 2 weeks in Malaysia? You’re going to love it. Since it’s one of my favourite Southeast Asian countries, I can’t wait to share my Malaysia itinerary to help you love it, too. While Malaysia receives plenty of tourism, it’s not as popular on the backpack trail as Thailand or Bali. There are plenty of places to escape the crowds and enjoy places you haven’t seen before on Instagram. If you have time for a 2 week Malaysia itinerary, you can get off-the-beaten-track and explore all kinds of diverse destinations.

MALAYSIA ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) Getting around: bus and train ( 12GoAsia ) Pre-book your KL airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Read next: solo travel in Malaysia , the ultimate guide!

Many of the best things to do in Southeast Asia can be found in Malaysia. There’s no much variety: Kuala Lumpur is a cultural melting pot with authentic street food alongside opulent sky bars. But Malaysia isn’t all about big cities: there are some gorgeous small cities like Melaka and Ipoh which are lesser-known to tourists but great for soaking up the charm of Malaysia.

Visiting neighbour countries? Check out my 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Then, there are quirky cities like George Town on the island of Penang with countless hipster cafes and plenty of day trips around the island. There are also paradise beaches like Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands, as well as dense rainforest in Taman Negara National Park and rolling tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands. Malaysia really has everything!

Check out my other 2 week Asia itineraries to Taiwan , Vietnam , Bali and Korea .

Two weeks in Malaysia itinerary

I’m going to share three different 2 week Malaysia itineraries: one for city lovers, one for nature lovers and one for beach lovers. Follow whichever one best suits you or mix them up. I’ll share the majority of details in the first itinerary as some destinations overlap, then I’ll introduce the new destinations in the following 2 itineraries.

Read next: 101 Southeast Asia backpacking tips

Malaysia 2 week itinerary for nature lovers

Days 1-2 kuala lumpur.

Whether you’re a city lover or not, you can’t visit Malaysia and not explore Kuala Lumpur. The capital is one of the flashiest cities in Southeast Asia, apart from maybe Bangkok . The iconic Petronas Towers were once the tallest buildings in the world and although they’ve since lost the title, they make for an impressive view while sipping cocktails from a sky bar opposite.

Day 1: Explore Chinatown , a vibrant area of Kuala Lumpur. Head inside Indian temple, Sri Mahamariamman, and Chinese temple, Guan Di, to begin soaking up the culture. Browse Petaling Street which is an atmospheric market, although a little rough around the edges. Check out the wet market behind with authentic food stalls like Madras Lane Curry Laksa. You can also find tasty cuisine in Tang City Food Court, as well as Insta-friendly Merchant’s Lane Cafe and charming Old China cafe with 100 years of history.

For the afternoon, take a trip over to Merdeka Square where you can see Jamek Mosque and the impressive Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Then, take a taxi or walk over to KL Forest Eco Park where you can walk swinging canopy bridges over the rainforest with skyscraper views. For the evening, spot street art in Bukit Bintang neighbourhood before the sun sets. Eat dinner at Jalan Alor Night Market which gets busy after 7pm with locals dining outside on char kway teow, dim sum and other Malay, Indian and Chinese dishes. If you have energy left, there are lots of bars around Bukit Bintang. Check out my Kuala Lumpur guides:

• How to spend 2 days in Kuala Lumpur
• What to eat in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur
• Instagrammable cafes in Kuala Lumpur

Day 2: For the second day of your Malaysia itinerary, we’ll explore the culture and get to know the country’s ethnic populations. Start by catching a taxi to Thean Hou Temple , an enormous temple site dedicated to the Chinese goddess of the sea. After an hour wandering around and taking photos, call another Uber to Brickfields , the Indian neighbourhood, for an early lunch of curry on a banana leaf. Yum!

I recommend GetYourGuide for KL activities:

For the afternoon, board a train from KL Sentral to The Batu Caves . Check train times on Google Maps because often they only depart every hour. If you’d prefer, take a guided tour to Batu Caves ($8 USD) or a half day KL tour inc a Batu Caves stop ($14). The vibrant Batu Caves are a vibrant addition to your Malaysia 2 week itinerary. You can walk up the rainbow stairs provided your legs and shoulders are covered (sarongs can be rented at the bottom if not) and explore the cave temple at the top.

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur

• For backpackers,  stay at Sunshine Bedz in Kuala Lumpur for a comfy, social hostel located near KL Tower and the Petronas Towers. Beds start from $10 a night .
• Space Hotel @ China Town Kuala Lumpur – this boutique capsule bed hotel just 2 minute’s walk from Petaling Street. Book from $15 a night .
• With a garden, shared lounge and terrace, Hotel Aman is budget-friendly hotel with a 24-hour front desk, concierge service and free Wi-Fi. Book from $30 a night.
• If you’re splashing out during your 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur, The Face Suites is one of the fanciest places to be with amazing views from the rooftop pool. Book from $70 a night .

Days 3-5: Taman Negara

To visit Malaysia’s biggest national park, translating into Bahasa adventurously as ‘National Park’, you can travel independently or take a tour. While it takes a while to get there, visiting this 130 million-year-old rainforest was a highlight of my Malaysia itinerary.

While you can visit Teman Negara without a tour, I enjoyed the chance to relax and let someone else take the lead during my busy 2 weeks in Malaysia. We departed KL and rode in a minibus until transferring to a longboat and travelling to Kuala Tahan, the village at the heart of the park. From there, we spent 2 days walking canopy bridges, taking guided nature walks, rapid shooting and meeting the local community who live in the forest. The tour included all our meals and accommodation and they even helped organise our onwards journeys, mine to Tanah Rata in the Cameron Highlands. To visit independently (and stay overnight) take bus and boat from the Han Travel and organise your own activities when you arrive. Alternatively, visit as part of a day trip from KL .

Days 6-8: Cameron Highlands

Two weeks in Malaysia wouldn’t be complete without the Cameron Highlands, a misty land of rolling hills and tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. Once you know it was a British hill station, the reason for the tea is clear. The best place to stay is the town of Tanah Rata where you can organise tours and sample excellent Indian food along the high street. Depending on what you want to do, you can spend one or two days in the Cameron Highlands. We spent the first day visiting tea plantations and strawberry fields on a guided tour and a second day hiking in the Cameron Highlands . There’s not much by the way of nightlife but at least you can relax and sip some excellent tasting tea! Alternatively, visit the Cameron Highlands as a day tour from KL .

Days 9-11: Penang

The next stop for our 2 week Malaysia itinerary is the island of Penang off the west coast of Malaysia. Not only is there lots of nature, hiking and scenery on Penang but it’s a good launching point for our final destination, Langkawi. The best place to stay is the island’s main city of George Town . This hipster city is known for street art famously created by Ernest Zacharevic, as well as world-class street food and more recently, hipster Penang cafes.

Day 9: Arrive and head out for some Penang street food. Check out my guide for all the best things to do in Penang which include exploring Little India, the numerous temples, Clan Jetties floating houses and, most importantly, eating cake at Chinahouse cafe.

Here are also some food tours you can join: 

—> Penang: Evening walking foods tour

—> Penang harmony food trail

—> Private Penang tasty local street food tour

Day 10: Take a day trip over to Kek Lok Si Temple in nearby Air Itam town. After lunch of famous asam laksa at Pasar Air Itam Laksa, continue to Penang Hill. You can hike or take a cable car up to the top and look out over the island.

Read next: visiting Kek Lok Si from George Town

Day 11: Spend the day exploring Penang National Park. Located 20km from Penang, you can drive there in 30 minutes from George Town and spend the day trekking, walking the Canopy Walkway and visiting Monkey Beach. If you’re not hiring a car during your 2 weeks in Malaysia, you can take an organised day trip to Penang National Park or catch the 101 bus from George Town for 4 MYR. The first bus is at 5.30am and the last is at midnight so you’ll have plenty of time to make a day of it. For more details, visit this blog on visiting Penang National Park .

Where to stay in Penang

• EZ Social – with a co-working space, lively bar and laundry facilities, this is a fantastic and sociable place to stay. Book from $10 a night .
• The Frame – in a well-preserved heritage house with a TV lounge, spacious lockers and individual reading lamps and electrical plugs, this is the comfiest base for budget travellers. Book from $10 a night .
• Carnarvon House – in central Georgetown with great reviews, this is a fantastic budget hotel. Book from $30 a night .
• Savv Hotel – a wonderful mid-range base with an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, garden, shared lounge, a bar and terrace. Book from $60 a night .
• Blue Mansion – for the ultimate treat, this 4-star heritage property has boutique rooms with antique fittings. Book from $120 a night .

Days 12-14: Langkawi

To finish off your Malaysia itinerary for 2 weeks, relax on the beach in beautiful Langkawi. This gorgeous island across from Penang is one of the best places in Malaysia for holiday vibes, as well as wildlife and natural scenery. To arrive, simply catch a ferry from Swettenham Pier for 80 RM, taking 3 hours in total.

Day 13: Consider taking a taking a boat tour around the highlights of Langkawi. As well as watching eagles soar to catch fish, you can swim and visit quieter beaches only accessible by private boat. Day 14: Relax on the beach or explore the island further, soaring over Langwaki on Langkawi Cable Car or walking Langkawi Sky Bridge.

Malaysia 2 week itinerary for city lovers

Want to focus more on cities than nature during your 2 weeks in Malaysia? Follow this itinerary.

Days 1-2: Kuala Lumpur – as above

Days 3-4: melaka.

The small city of Melaka is a lovely place to visit during 2 weeks in Malaysia. You can actually take a Melaka day trip from Kuala Lumpur if you’re short on time but I’d recommend staying over if possible.

In many ways, Melaka is a strange place, for example the central square’s windmills and church dating back to Dutch colonial rule of Melaka from 1641 to 1826. Even weirder, you’ll see (and hear!) ridiculous Minion and Hello Kitty tricycles roaming the streets playing Nicki Minaj and offering rides. Aside from these oddities, Melaka is a charming town with lots of Straits Heritage buildings lived in by the Chinese community. If you’re staying for the weekend, make sure you eat and soak up the atmosphere at Jonkers Street Night Market . You can also take a trip to Melaka Straits Mosque, eat at authentic Melaka restaurants, and explore the street art.

Read my Melaka blogs:

• Things to do in Melaka
• Best Melaka food guide
• Melaka street art guide
• Melaka cafes & coffee shops .

Days 5-7: Ipoh

From Melaka, you can catch a direct bus passing back through KL to one of my favourite places in Malaysia. If you’re short on time, take a KL to Ipoh return day tour . The charming city of Ipoh is a must for your Malaysia 2 week itinerary with some impressive countryside and cave temples surrounding it. I actually preferred it to Melaka. Read about everything I got up to in my Ipoh itinerary .

Day 6: Explore the highlights of Ipoh. Start your day at Old Town White Coffee before spotting street art along Mural Art’s Lane, visit Panglima Kinta Mosque, then soak up the markets and heritage buildings along Concubine Lane and Market Lane. Eat famous chicken rice at Luo Wang . Day 7: Take a trip to the cave temples surrounding Ipoh. Sam Poh Tong is a Chinese Buddhist temple about 5km from Ipoh with colourful statues from Chinese mythology (and a random Pegasus statue). Entrance is free and there’s a hidden temple at the back. Kek Lok Tong is another set of caves, although the highlight is the incredible scenery rather than the temples inside. Wander around the 14km grounds surrounded by limestone peaks. Continue to Perak Cave Temple , another impressive place with lots of religious cave art and a panoramic view from the top. Check out my guide to visiting the Ipoh cave temples .

Where to stay in Ipoh: the best hostel in town is the Brownstone with a rooftop garden, TV room, coffee makers and more from $13 a night. For a lovely hotel with a restaurant, opt for M Boutique Hotel Station from $35.

Days 8-9: Cameron Highlands

From Ipoh, you’re only an hour and a half from the Cameron Highlands, one of the most naturally beautiful places I visited during 2 weeks in Malaysia. Why not take a break from culture and cities and spend a couple of days soaking up the natural beauty and drinking tea? A night in Tanah Rata is enough to see the region if you’re not trekking. Jump up to my first 2 week nature itinerary above.

Days 10-12: George Town, Penang

City lovers should not miss Penang from their 2 week Malaysia itinerary. It’s easy to spend a couple of days enjoying city life in George Town while eating amazing street food and visiting Chinese temples, Hindu temples, mosques and even churches. If you visit on a Sunday, take a trip to Hin Bus Depot where the weekend market sees live music, food trucks and a craft market.

The amount of time you spend in Penang depends how many day trips you take from George Town. As well as visiting Kek Lok Si Temple, you can take a day trip to Penang National Park or explore the island further. Jump back up to my first Malaysia itinerary for the details. Check out my Penang guides:

• Things to do in Penang
• Penang street food guide
• Digital nomad Penang guide
• Best street art in Penang
• Healthy food in Penang
• 12 best cafes in Penang .

Days 13-14: Langkawi

After your busy 2 week itinerary of Malaysia, head over to Langkawi on the ferry for some beach chills. Jump back up for all the details.

Malaysia itinerary for 2 weeks – beach lovers

Days 3-7: perhentian islands.

Located off the northeast coast of Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands are a must for beach lovers spending two weeks in Malaysia. I’m pretty sure you could spend your whole Malaysia itinerary here and leave happy (although I’m including a few extra destinations too). There are two islands to visit, Besar (big) and Kecil (small) so I would suggest spending a good chunk of time in the Perhentians in order to see them both.

Seasonal note – the best time to visit is March to early November as monsoon season draws in soon after. Unlike many beach destinations around the world, there’s a limited window each year for visiting the Perhentian Islands. Make sure to book your accommodation ahead of time as things can get booked up. Getting to the Perhentian Islands from Kuala Lumpur: The cheapest option is an overnight bus from PWTC Station in Kuala Lumpur arriving at Kuala Besut where you can catch a ferry to the Perhentians. Alternatively, AirAsia fly into Kota Bharuor Kuala Terrengganu and catch a ferry. Days 4-5: Perhentian Besar . Visit Turtle Beach and spot turtles from Turtle Point. There are lots of locations around the coast for snorkelling and diving. This island is slightly quieter than Kecil so if you are looking for a relaxing stay, this is the spot. Days 6-7: Perhentian Kecil . This island may be the smaller of the two but it’s the most popular, making it best for meeting other travellers and finding good deals on snorkelling and diving. You can even take your PADI license while looking for sharks and turtles. Long Beach is where most tourists stay but you can also explore quieter Coral Beach and stay for sunset.

Days 8-9: Ipoh / Cameron Highlands

Choose either Ipoh or the Cameron Highlands as a stop-off in central Malaysia, although Ipoh is slightly easier to reach. Catch the ferry from the Perhentians then a bus changing at Pasir Puteh. Alternatively, you could head to Penang from the Perhentians and then on to Langkawi Island.

Days 10-11: Penang – as above

Days 12-14: langkawi – as above.

I hope you enjoyed my Malaysia itinerary and you have a fantastic time during your 2 weeks in Malaysia. This country is so full of friendliness, food and diverse destinations that you’d be hard pushed not to!

Thanks for reading my Malaysia itinerary

See you next time,

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Ps. Like my Malaysia itinerary for 2 weeks? Pin it for later!

Malaysia useful links Flights – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia . For Malaysia buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

8 thoughts on “ 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary For City, Beach & Nature Lovers ”

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Malaysia again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

– Veronika

Hi Veronika! Thanks for reading and commenting. I adore Malaysia too and can’t wait to find myself back there one of these days 🙂

Can you tell me when is the best time to visit Malaysia for city lovers? I will need to travel before March 2024 as I have an airfare credit. Would June, July or August work?

Hey Alice, sorry for late reply! I think the cities may be too hot in that summer season.

Hi Rose, Really well written article. I notice that you excluded the Borneo part of Malaysia. Is that because you don’t think it’s worth seeing or you’ve not had a chance to go there yourself.

Hi Roben, I went there myself but only briefly and didn’t feel qualified enough to talk on it. But I liked what I saw!

Hey Rose! Love your article. It is packed with information and will make my upcoming trip to Malaysia easier. I tried to buy eSIM trough your link but simply don’t understand how it works. It is an app, and no actual physical SIM card? Do you mind telling me step by step how to get eSIM? Thank you so much 🙏🏾

Hi Indra, they wiil email you the QR code and you will activate it. You are right, there’s no physical SIM!

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Stories of Southeast Asia: Traveling Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary . Kuala Lumpur is that kind of place where 3 days makes a sweet itinerary covering the most sought-to places. But more days let you explore the hidden gems of the city. I visited KL for only 2 days and regretfully it wasn’t enough.

Here goes my itinerary along with my Kuala Lumpur travel blog .

Malaysia, as a country, offers several days of exploring like its beaches, offbeat island hopping , the revered Genting Highlands, and even week-long forest excursions. With Kuala Lumpur as the capital city of Malaysia, there are a number of places to experience here!

From Singapore , a cheaper alternative is via road – more or less a 6 hours drive. It typically costs SGD $25 – $35 for a direct bus from Singapore to KL (terminals at Berjaya Times Square, Terminal Bersepadu, and KL Sentral). You can book your preferred bus from sites like Redbus.com.

Table of Contents

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary

Thank god I didn’t miss the must-visits of Kuala Lumpur like the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves (though outside KL). But over the decade, the city has grown much in terms of tourism.

In this Kuala Lumpur 3 day itinerary, I’ve squeezed in the unique places to see while considering authentic foodspots for luncheons. Unlike an itinerary to Bali , many attractions are clustered together in a place – only a handful lay far from the rest.

For budget travelers, MRT and bus transits are actually reliable to get around Kuala Lumpur. But don’t hesitate to hail a cab if you’re off the itinerary track! For taxis I recommend the Grab mobile app for the best taxi fares. Afterall, they’re cheaper and safer than local cabs.

Now let’s dive into this Kuala Lumpur travel blog of mine:

Day 1: Land in Kuala Lumpur

The quickest way to Kuala Lumpur is by flight via the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) located 45 km south of the city. From Singapore, it’s a 1-hour flight to KUL.

As the airport lies on the outskirts, you can get to Kuala Lumpur by KLIA transit bus which stops at Salak Tinggi, Putrajaya, and Selatan. However, the best way to KL is via the KLIA Ekspres Train . This is a non-stop express straight to KL City Air Terminal at Sentral that takes no more than 30 minutes.

It costs RM 55 (around SGD $15) for the train. Book your trip from the airport via Klook.com for discounted rates. Being a partner of Klook, our readers get better deals from here. Check it out below!

Start at Thean Hou Temple

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary . Considering you start early morning after you land in Kuala Lumpur, the first stop is the Thean How Temple. While the Temple of the Chinese Mazu Goddess boasts its night lighting till late 10pm, I suggest the mornings to avoid the crowds.

Located on a hilltop, the 1987 six-levelled striking red contemporary structure gives it an iconic stance. The place gets even more lively on special occasions. Witnss the city skyline from the top levels of the Temple – and it’s free to visit!

Breakfast at Brickfield

The nearest spot to Thean Hou Temple is Brickfield, Little India. You’ll find rows of street stalls and food hawkers selling all kinds of delicacies for cheap. Dosas are a must-have here.

Again, the evenings get crowded here. When you visit in the late morning, it’s great for street photograph with the vibrant hues of old buildings and streets themselves. Brickfield more or less remind me of Little India and Chinatown in Singapore .

Consider this place for your first meal of the day (brunch too perhaps). Expect yourself to spend a couple of hours at this marketplace.

Stroll the Merdeka Square

This is one of my favorite parts of the itinerary, the Merdeka (Independent) Square. Walk the large rectangular lawn area with the stretch of the Sultan Abdul Samad on one side and Plaza Dataran Merdeka adjacent to it.

Fun fact – the Sultan Abdul Samad was used as administrative offices during the British colonization and it housed superior courts. The Jalan Raja road, pavements, the diplomatic structures and the green square make it look something out of a John Wick movie!

Visit the National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara)

It’s only 15 minutes walk away from Merdeka Square! Also, swap these two spots depending on convenience. If it’s hot over your head, then hit the Masjid Negara first. Merdeka Square is more in the open.

With the National Mosque of Malaysia a popular place among tourists today, they allow non-muslims to walk around parts of the mosque from where you can observe the prayers. The mosque is centered amidst 13 acres of gardens with 73m high minaret.

Not to mention, with its capacity of 15,000 people – it’s quite something to see. People are hospitable here and gladly explain their culture if one doesn’t understand the significance of certain things here. They also provide in case of inappropriate dressing. Please look up the prayer timings as visitors aren’t allowed at the time.

Witness the Petronas Towers!

Getting to the Petronas Towers is only a 10-minutes drive from the Masjid Negara. Taking a Grab taxi shouldn’t cost too much. But taking the bus with some effort of walking is also an option.

Whether you missed out any of the places till now out of any inconvenience, that’s alright – let it pass. But you simply can’t miss the Petronas Towers. It’s the first thing anyone thinks of when it comes to Malaysia!

Though visitors aren’t allowed till the top, the swinging bridge at Level 41 and 42 between the towers is the key attraction here. If lucky, you’ll actually feel the bridge movement due to strong winds! Speaking of visiting, book your tickets with time slots a few days prior. The evening slots get filled out fast and the visiting hours close at 5 pm.

Relax at Bukit Bintang

Kuala Lumpur travel blog. Your last stop is Bukit Bintang – a visible range from the Petronas Twin Towers . This place is known for its touristy evening vibe with range of accommodations. However, I should mention that Bukit Bintang leans towards luxury with its classy bars, live music clubs, and authentic seafood places.

While I wouldn’t touch a luxury spot when traveling to keep my pockets safe, I found Bukit Bintang alluring for their hotels. 4-star hotels like the Mercure KL Shaw Parade with a pool at the rooftop are priced around S$85 per night (280 RM). In Singapore, it’s impossible to find such deals.

Here are some of my favorite picks for luxury yet affordable hotels in Bukit Bintang:

• Mercure KL Shaw Parade
• Hotel Capitol
• CitizenM Kuala Lumpur

Day 2: Walk at the KL Forest Eco Park

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. Let the second day begin with the KL Forest Eco Park. The morning is perfect way to begin while you avoid large crowds.

Malaysiaa does have large patches of forests but this – the KL forest eco Park lies at the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The canopy walks, the varieties of flora and fauna, and the city’s skyscapers is something to look forward to. Expect to spend 2-3 hours here in the morning.

Visit the Guan Di Temple

Another most heard of name in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is no doubt the Guan Di Temple. Only 15 minutes away from Forest Eco Park, this is a well-known Taoist temple, especially among Chinese. Guan Di is the name of the Chinese Soldier also referred to as the God of War.

Thus, some things to expect in this unique temple are the artifacts and weapons (though replicas) of Guan Dao spear and Guan Jie sword. If lucky during traditional occassions, visitors will be allowed to touch these relics.

Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth visiting!

Dine at Old Chinatown Street Food

Another happening place like Little India, Brickfield is Old Chinatown. Only a walkable distance from Guan Di Temple (also in Chinatown), it’s a place you shouldn’t miss. Unlike most of Malaysia where you see large commercial estates gobbling on tinier businesses, Chinatown’s maintained its authencity.

Many of the stalls here are run by the same families for generations selling their authentic cultural dishes. That’s what make Brickfield and Chinatown something worth visiting. Unlike Singapore’s Chinatown , you get more varieties of delicacies to try.

Some things to try are Madras Lane’s Song Kee’s Beef Noodles and Yong Tau Foo. Dao Bao (the Dao Bao Restobar) and rice balls at Madam Tang’s Muah Chee.

Check out Masjid Wilayah Mosque

Another fascinating Mosque in Kuala Lumpur is the Masjid Wilayah, also called the Federal Territory Mosque. There’s no upfront ticket price as such – but be sure to visit between to 10 am to 5 pm. Also keep in mind it’s closed on Fridays and the weekend.

The marble walls and the overall structure is something to admire. It’s exactly how it appears in the pictures. Simply photogenic with the Makrana marble carvings on walls, ceiling, and even the floor designs. More or less, it resembles Taj Mahal – one of the 7 wonders in India.

From Chinatown, it’s no more than a 15 minute drive away!

Take a trip to Batu Caves

I put this spot for the end of the day as this is the furthest from other places and yet closest to Masjid Wilayah (9 km away). Furthermore Batu Caves are open till 9 pm which gives you enough time to get around without rushing.

Either way, make sure not to miss the Batu Caves – one of Kuala Lumpur’s treasured attractions. There are quite many Murugan temples in Southeast Asia. But the 43-meter gold-tinted Arul Murugan Statue before the caves is something to remember.

When I visited, the 272 steps up the temple were ash-colored. Today the steps are splashed vibrant hues of many colors making it an Instagrammable spot. If not pictures, hire a guide for the caves to learn the rich history of the caves.

Day 3: Visit the KL Bird Park

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. Only visit the KL Bird Park and Zoo Negara if you have the whole third day left for Kuala Lumpur. If you have lesser time, proritize the infamous Kuala Lumpur Tower before all.

Feel free to wake up without hurrying and have a good breakfast before making it to the KL bird park. The park, adjacent to Lake Gardens, opens at 9 am. Expect yourself to tour the 21-acre park by walk till lunchtime. It costs around RM 75 per adult (SGD $15).

The KL bird park boasts to have one of the largest free flight walk-in aviary. The looks of the Bird Park – the zones, open concept, and the structure amidst Perdana Botanical Gardens reminds me of the Jurong Bird Park in Singapore , though it isn’t as big.

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days Itinerary: Then the Zoo Negara!

Have lunch at the KL bird park or Zoo Negara – both have their own themed restaurants. KL bird Park has the Hornbill Restaurant and Cafe. Back on our Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary, Zoo Negara is quite some distance from the Bird Park.

The 20 km takes around 30 minutes based on traffic conditions. Stay on track as the Zoo closes at 5 pm. The Zoo covers over 110 acres that majorly highlights tropical species here. It takes a good 3-4 hours to visit the zoo. Thus the time constraint.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Aquarium here exhibits the first ecological-based freshwater aquarium that sheds light on the Malaysian river and its wetlands. With its varieties of species and ticket price around RM 88 (SGD $22), this attraction is where many locals as well as KL visitors collide.

It’s a sweet getaway spot afterall!

Don’t miss on Kuala Lumpur Tower

Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. The tower, still a vital part of telecommunication stations here, is popular for it being the 2nd tallest tower in Southeast Asia at 421 meters. There’s an observation deck and a sky deck (they’re both different) at the top that allows tourists to experience its edge 360-degree views.

Sky-deck here is something to experience with a clear glass bottom, offering views of the capital’s skyline. Some prefer to visit in the morning while I however believe that the night view is more magical with shimmering lights and cool breeze.

The closing time is 10 p.m. This finishes our Kuala Lumpur 3 Days itinerary. Book your KL tower tickets on Klook below for the best prices:

Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog: My story

After food, the sun seemed to be preparing itself for a set. We had a bus waiting for us. We were going to Genting Highlands directly from the airport. One of the best highlands I’ve visited so far.

Well, at least among the ones that have a huge amusement park on the top. But just between you and me, the highland that I feel is the best is Mount Batur in Bali and its wonderful trek. 

And off we drove up the hill to Genting Highlands . Up we went and up we went – since I’ve named this blog- Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog, I shall stick to what I mentioned. But Genting Highlands is quite something to experience.

Stay in a Hotel

After we came from Genting Highlands back to Kuala Lumpur, our next plan was to visit the Petronas Tower. We came back to KL in the evening and we got a hotel somewhere near to an MRT station deep inside Kuala Lumpur… or at least that’s what it seemed like to me at the time.

To be honest with you, the hotel wasn’t very good. They had breakfast alright, but that was it. Luckily, we just stayed there for one night. The next morning, we had breakfast and checked out straight to visit the Petronas Tower.

I don’t quite remember if we made it there by taxi or train. What I do remember is I couldn’t help looking up every time I faced the Towers.

Petronas Towers

Apart from being the second tallest towers in the world, Petronas Tower has something else very unique. It’s its bridge. It is said to be the world’s tallest sky bridge. Fun fact, it took 3 days just to lift the bridge to its current bridge.

Yep, they lifted the bridge up there. In fact, the bridge hangs from both the ends of the tower with the help of two rod-like structures.

So in reality- if there’s wind over a particular magnitude, the bridge actually sways.

Apart from the bridge, the elevator was quite something too. Its top ascend speed is said to be 7 meters per second. I didn’t know if that was a lot – but I did as soon as it started lifting us up.

Going up – Petronas Tower Sky Bridge

Before we got in, we waited for hours for security check. While on the wait, there were informational boards about how the towers were built. How both the towers competed in who would complete building first. And how the winner would be the one to get a chance to build the bridge across the two.

After the long wait, we finally got onto the lift with other tourists. My parents asked me to hold my ears if I felt them paining. I didn’t understand them.

But when the lift started moving up, I got it. Due to the high speed, my ears started turning numb by the second. I looked at the display. It was moving about one and a half floors per second!

I turned around to look at a lean Caucasian lady whose face had turned pink. She held her ears tight. But it didn’t help anyway, her nose turned red. Luckily, before it got worse for any of us, the lift doors opened. We got onto the bridge.

Back and out

When we went up, there wasn’t wind so we didn’t experience the bridge moment which was kind of disappointing.

The view however was spectacular! I looked down at the road from the window on one side and so tiny yellow ant-like-objects moving slowly. They were actually taxis and cars in the traffic. The feeling was pretty exhilarating, I should say.

The visit to the bridge wasn’t very long. We had around 30-45 minutes to stay and then the lift would take us back down. And so we went down after a few great pictures. The taxi was waiting for us for our next stop- the Batu Caves.

Another must visit place in Malaysia is no doubt Batu Caves. Read all about it on my Batu Caves blog here.

Heading back to the Airport

This brings us to the end of this Kuala Lumpur travel blog . After our visit to the Batu Caves, we were completely exhausted. That was all our trip supposed to be and so we headed back. Thus back to the airport did we go to in the same taxi. The taxi driver became well-acquainted with us after a while.

He was originally Indian and turned out to be a pretty good guide as well. He didn’t speak our native of course, but we understood Malay. As it is close to Bahasa Indonesia, we had no trouble communicating.

For some basics of the language, I made a list of phrases that you’d need to keep in mind for it.

He told a lot about the city and his family and lifestyle as well. It was a pretty interesting conversation to listen to on our way back. And then we bid him goodbye and off we flew! Again, I didn’t remember a single thing on our way back. Just before we flew back, I made a very smart move.

I decided to have burnt noodles if that’s even a thing as I was hungry. Bad decision because I was nauseous on our entire travel back to Indonesia. But that’s just typically me, doing wrong shit at the wrong times, so I really can’t say anything about it anymore.

But anyway, that sums up for our trip to Kuala Lumpur. If you just finished reading this Kuala Lumpur Travel Blog, well hooray! Comment below if you’ve got something to add up.

Manas Patil

Hi there! I'm a 22-year-old dude all the way from India, I love traveling and building itineraries! Sign up and get your FREE COPY of my travel checklist to get the best of your next vacation!

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1 thought on “Stories of Southeast Asia: Traveling Kuala Lumpur”

I really cannot add more to what was said because you have disclosed all important information. I must say that this site is quite nice. In this website there is also a lot of interesting and useful information:

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• Island Hopping, Ziplining, Sightseeing, & Duty-Free Shopping: This Malaysia Travel Guide Has It All!

27 Mar 2023

Striking cityscapes, sandy beaches, and pristine islands were all that I had heard about Malaysia till I saw it all for real on a holiday there in October. I was pretty excited about my Malaysia trip; the itinerary of which was quite packed with lots of interesting and thrilling activities, all thanks to Tourism Malaysia. This trip was 6 days of unlimited fun and limited sleep. With flights in the air, scooters on land, and jet skis on the water, I traversed from India to Malaysia on one of my best trips till date. Have a look at this ultimate Malaysia travel guide and I bet you’d be already planning yours!

Itinerary Of 6 Days Trip To Malaysia

Day 1: Arrival at Kuala Lumpur and city sightseeing Day 2: Transfer to Genting and Genting attractions Day 3: Arrival at Langkawi and duty-free shopping Day 4: Island hopping via jet ski tour Day 5: Ziplining and sunset cruise Day 6: Arrival at New Delhi

Weather In Malaysia In October

I covered Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands, and Langkawi on this trip to Malaysia, and the weather was different at all the three places. The temperature was moderate and humid as it was raining in Kuala Lumpur in October. Genting Highlands was much cooler in comparison to KL, but one didn’t really need thermals. It was a pleasant weather in Genting in October. While it was quite warm in Langkawi with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

My Experiences On A 6 Day Trip To Malaysia

I visited Malaysia in October, and it was one amazing trip organized by Malaysia Tourism. With 9 other individuals on this trip, I had an amazing time seeing the best of Malaysia and staying at some of the most beautiful properties, enjoying the food at the best restaurants and a lot more. Read on to know what this 6 day trip to Malaysia had in store for me.

1. Kuala Lumpur Sightseeing

My trip to Malaysia began with a little over a 5-hour flight from New Delhi to Kuala Lumpur and I was pretty excited about it. After settling at the hotel and having lunch there, I headed for the first attraction of my 6 day Malaysia trip which was Batu Caves . These were a series of caves and cave temples which had 272 colored steps to reach to the top. The first site of this attraction was the golden gleam of the beautiful Lord Murugan statue , which also happens to be the world’s tallest Murugan statue, standing tall at a height of 47.2 mts. The climb was a bit tedious but the temples and the views from atop were beautiful. The temple complex below and the openings above in the limestone caves, from where the light peaked in, looked lovely after the climb.

After Batu Caves, I headed to the Central Market , which was quite close to Chinatown. The first thing that I noticed around Central Market was the graffiti, both interesting and vibrant. The Central Market itself is a heritage building in Malaysia and houses over 300 shops that have art, culture, food, and experiences. My favorite stop at this market was the Fish Spa , which was a first time experience for me. Ticklish in the beginning, it was fun after the initial one or two minutes. The market also had Batik paintings, souvenirs and other artsy stuff including bundles of postcards in the form of old printed photographs.

The next stop was a crossroad from where I got the perfect view of the Petronas Twin Towers , the tallest building in the world till 2004, and the tallest twin towers till date. After clicking a few pictures with this beauty, I headed to another famous tower of Kuala Lumpur, Menara Kuala Lumpur . Here I had dinner at Atmosphere 360, which is a restaurant 282m above ground level and with the look of a spaceship. Later I also went to the observation deck from where I enjoyed breathtaking views of the city of Kuala Lumpur. This was all that Kuala Lumpur sightseeing had in store for us.

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2. A Day At Genting Highlands

No Malaysia travel guide is complete without a mention of Genting Highlands. And another highlight of my 6 day Malaysia trip was a day at Genting Highlands . A hill resort in Malaysia, Genting is a great add on to one’s itinerary. The winding roads and green sideways made the journey even more beautiful. Genting is another world in itself with loads of indoor and outdoor activities. The outdoor theme park was closed at the moment, but that did not stop me from having fun.

The tour started with lunch at Jom Makan Street Food , where I had tasty South Indian food. The next stop was the Sky Symphony show , which is also the only free thing to enjoy at Genting Highlands. It is a visual marvel, a storytelling in the sky with the help of thousands of balls that dance in the sky and is quite entertaining. Next, I headed to experience The Void , which was a thrilling virtual reality experience. Based on Hollywood storylines, there are different missions and one can experience it in teams of 4. It was one of the most thrilling experiences of the entire trip.

The day did not just end here, as I was still to experience the exciting ropeway of Genting. And soon I started the descend to Chin Swee Temple in Genting. It began to rain as soon as I took our glass-bottom gondola. The views of the dense green forest below and all around were terrific. The glass bottom of the gondola added to the thrill, and the environs turned misty and beautiful. By the time I reached the temple, the clouds cleared a bit, and I got amazing views of this 9 storey Chinese temple. This was one of the most picturesque sites of Genting.

The day at Genting ended with a visit to the Snow World where one could enjoy tobogganing & click pictures inside igloo houses.

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3. Cenang Walking Tour

If you are looking for some duty-free shopping, then the duty-free stores at Langkawi are the best places to buy chocolates, liquors, and cigars . Liquor is quite cheaply priced and there is quite a variety of chocolates available. Right outside the duty-free stores which are located at Cenang street, there are a number of stores for street shopping in Langkawi. One can get s ouvenirs, local jewelry, craft items, clothes, perfumes and quirky bags at these stores. There is a sidewalk too with a number of food trucks in Cenang , where one can enjoy the local food of Langkawi.

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4. Island Hopping On A Jet Ski

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands, is drop-dead gorgeous. The clear blue waters, white-sand beaches, and dense green environs, all add to the magnificence of this archipelago. 4 out of a total of 99 islands are inhabited here and on a 4 hour Jet Ski tour with Mega Water Sports , I went island hopping to some inhabited while some unoccupied islands. The first stop was the freshwater lake of Dayang Bunting which is also called the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden. A short hike took us to this beautiful lake that was surrounded by dense forests and had refreshing cool water.

After a swim here I proceeded to the mangroves and limestone caves and later stopped at a remote island before I finally headed back for the mainland. The instructor was quite patient and gave the instructions well before the tour began. All in all, it was quite an adventure and the best way to explore different islands of Langkawi.

27 Exotic Places To Visit In Langkawi For Soaking In The Soothing 2022 Malay Vibes

5. Sky High Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi isn’t just about the blues and the depth of the sea, but it is also about the mountains and scaling heights. The highest cable car of Malaysia, Langkawi Cable Car takes one through the eastern cliffs of Mt. Machinchang, above the lush green forests. The observation deck offered views of the most pristine sunset. One can even have a wedding here, atop the world, in the clouds, and lock vows and promises forever and put a marriage lock at the bridge here.

The sunset scenes from atop were the most beautiful of this 6 day Malaysia trip. The Sky Bridge was closed for safety reasons as it was drizzling, but the mere sight of it was thrilling and exciting. I would love to go back to Langkawi, just to walk on the Langkawi Sky Bridge.

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6. Ziplining Through The Langkawi Rainforest

Another amazing experience in Langkawi was ziplining through one of the oldest rainforests in the world. And Umgawa Legendary Adventures made it possible with complete assistance, amazing guides, and entertaining time through the 12 ziplines and 3 bridges that took around 2.5 hours to finish. It was great fun soaring from one end to another at the highest being 80 meters above the ground and catching glimpses of the Andaman Sea faraway. The descent was made by abseiling which was equally fun.

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7. Music And Dance At The Sunset Cruise

The 6 day Malaysia trip ended with a lovely evening on a cruise ship. I rushed to the cruise ship in a smaller boat as I had missed it at the dock. The speedy boat ride was quite thrilling and once onboard, I was greeted with friendly smiles and drinks. The cruise took us around in the calm waters of the sea and as the sun went down, the energy levels on the cruise ship rose. There was music, dance, and food and as everyone danced to some Bollywood music, that evening, I ended the trip on a memorable note.

Hotels in KL, Genting And Langkawi

I stayed in 3 different hotels on our 6 day Malaysia trip. The first one was the Tamu Hotel & Suites in Kuala Lumpur . It was a nice property with helpful staff. The views from the rooms were amazing and I could see both KL Tower and Petronas Twin Towers. The rooms were also quite spacious with air conditioning and WiFi facility. There weren’t a lot of food options for vegetarians the first day at lunch, but the manager was kind enough to specially get fried rice cooked for us, which was delicious.

The next place where I stayed on my Malaysia holiday was at Genting Highlands at Resorts World Genting . I got the Deluxe room which was later upgraded to Superior Deluxe. The Deluxe rooms though small with approx. 180 sq ft space had WiFi and no views available. The Superior Deluxe on the other hand with approx. 320 sq ft space, had beautiful views of the winding roads leading to Genting Highlands but no WiFi. So, get your priorities straight before you choose the room here.

The last place where I stayed was at The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa in Langkawi. I stayed in the Deluxe Rooms which were the most basic at this lovely property. The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa was a beachfront property where I didn’t get a lot of time to spend, but overall it was a beautiful and clean space. I was welcomed with garlands and a welcome drink, and everyone was helpful at the property.

Food In Malaysia

If you are a vegetarian, then food can be a bit tricky, especially when traveling during off-season periods because buffets do not have a lot of vegetarian options in Malaysia. But there are always options available. Also, coconut water is found in abundance here, and one can find it easily everywhere in Malaysia.

During my Malaysia trip, one place that really stood out for me was Huggin Hippo Langkawi . It was a chic restaurant with views of the sea. The owner of this place was very hospitable and everything I tried here was super delicious. It was no doubt the best meal of my entire 6 days Malaysia trip. Also, the desserts here were really tasty, and poured of love and warmth! Do try this place, on your trip to Langkawi.

Shopping In Malaysia

If one is looking for duty-free shopping, then Langkawi is the best place for it. One can buy chocolates and liquor here. For souvenirs and artsy stuff, I explored Cenang street and found really amazing places with earrings, bookmarks, and other aesthetic items. One can also buy clothes for the beach, perfumes, and more on this street here. If one is looking for more high-end shopping then, Genting Premium outlet is that place to shop at. Other than these two destinations, one can also check out Central Market in Kuala Lumpur was Batik and other authentic Malaysian things and Chinatown for street shopping.

What To Pack For Malaysia

I traveled to Malaysia in October and the weather was good for summer clothes. Genting Highlands was cold compared to Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi but didn’t require a thermal.

Malaysia Travel Tips

I traveled to Malaysia for the first time, and these are a few things that I think would help any first-timer here:

• If you are traveling to Malaysia in October, then carry an umbrella as it can begin to rain anytime. The showers are light and it doesn’t rain for a long time, but an umbrella would always be handy.
• Keep a hard copy of the visa and itinerary as you might need it during immigration.
• Always carry drinking water with oneself. Refill your bottles at the hotel or wherever you find drinking water available as water is expensive in Malaysia.
• Carry a swimsuit if you are planning on trying the watersports in Langkawi.
• Apply sunscreen well, because the sun in Langkawi won’t just tan, but might give you burns, especially on longer tours like island hopping jet ski, under the sun.
• Make sure that you are properly covered when visiting Batu Caves or you’ll have to rent a sarong at the temple complex below. The dress or shorts should be below the knees, and one’s shoulders covered.
• Always carry dry food items with you, because at times you might not find the food of your choice.
• Carry an international adapter as the plug points might not function without it.
• One can only carry 1 liter of alcohol from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur, so buy wisely.
• Abide by the timings given by the guide or you’ll miss out on experiences.
• Langkawi resorts are beautiful and if you are planning to stay at one, then keep a day entirely free, just to enjoy the property and relax at the beach.

How To Reach Malaysia

One can take a flight to Kuala Lumpur from various cities in India like New Delhi and Mumbai. I took Malindo airlines from Delhi to Kuala Lumpur and back. There was no food available in the flight, for those who had pre-booked a meal, neither for purchase. So, if you plan to fly with Malindo, make sure you are carrying your own food as it is around 5.5 hours flight from one point to another.

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This 6 day Malaysia holiday was spectacular, all thanks to Tourism Malaysia for planning an amazing itinerary. If you want to experience both highlands and beaches together, plan a similar trip to Malaysia with TravelTriangle and have an awesome time in Malaysia.

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Malaysia travel blog — The fullest Malaysia travel guide for a budget trip for the first-timers

A tropical paradise located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a fascinating and attractive country all visitors over the world by its harmonious combination of ethnic groups and cultural beliefs. The country of Malaysia is divided into two regions including Malaysia Peninsula and Malaysia Island separated by the South China Sea. Peninsula Malaysia is extremely prosperous region with skyscrapers in the capital of Kuala Lumpur, while the Malaysia island region owns rubber forests and mystical beauty beaches that attracts the adventurous travelers. Let’s check out our Malaysia travel blog (Malaysia blog) — The fullest Malaysia travel guide for a budget trip to Malaysia for the first-timers that will help you prepare for the perfect trip to the beautiful country with many interesting things below.

• Melaka food blog — Experience Melaka delicacies, arrived at by Trishaw
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Malaysia travel blog: When is the best time to visit Malaysia?

You can travel to Malaysia at any time of the year because this is a country with humid tropical climate, ecosystems are rich and diverse. The weather in Malaysia is divided into two distinct seasons: rainy season and dry season.

From April to August, September every year: It is the dry season in Malaysia, sunny but not too hot. Average daily temperatures range from 29 to 35 degrees Celsius, suitable for moving and enjoying outdoor activities without fear of weather.

From October to March of the next year: The rainy season of Malaysia, the weather will be much cooler. You may encounter a heavy rain but stop fast, so do not worry about the weather will affect your trip!

According to our Malaysia travel guide, from June to August is the best time to visit Malaysia because it is less rainy and sunny in this time. In addition, at this time, many shopping malls in Malaysia will have the biggest promotions of the year can be up to 70%. You will definitely be satisfied to buy a lot of bargains at this time.

Malaysia travel blog: Malaysia travel cost

Cost of transportation.

Like other developed countries in Southeast Asia, the main means of transportation in Malaysia include public transport (buses, trains, MRT) and personal vehicles such as cars, motorbikes. Depending on your budget and the travel distance you can choose the appropriate means of transportation.

Normally, the bus will cost you about RM5-11 per trip. Other vehicles such as MRT, LRT, … are only popular in big cities like Kuala Lumpur . Taxis are quite expensive, costing about RM3 / mile and will be four times more expensive if you can not find one to go with.

Cost of accommodation

Malaysia is one of the most visited destinations in Southeast Asia and Asia, so you will easy to find motels, hotels, resorts and homestays. The areas that attract most visitors are Kuala Lumpur , Penang and Langkawi . Single bed in dormitory room from RM30-55 per night, private room at RM75 per night, RM100 per night for a double room. The hotel rates range from RM80 per night to several times higher, depending on the “number of stars” and location of the hotel.

With hotels in Kuala Lumpur you should rent near the KL Sentral area or Bukit Bintang area because it is easy to moving around and reasonable price. You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Kuala Lumpur on Agoda.com or Booking.com which is very easy.

Read more:  Where to stay in KL? — Top 8 best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur for the first-timers .

Cost of eating out

Food is also one of the attractions for visitors to Malaysia. From satay grilled, or Malaysian traditional dish – nasi lemak with rice, scented cake and coconut milk flavor. If you just want to taste the food, you will have to pay about RM4-11 for each street food dish. And it will cost RM7-20 for each dish you call in the restaurant. Or simply, you can join the gastronomic tours of Kuala Lumpur and Penang – famous cities for gourmets.

The cost of self-sufficient playing

Malaysia has the three most popular tourist areas: Kuala Lumpur , Penang Old Town and Langkawi . Each region will have a different kind of activity, but the price is quite cheap compared to other places in Southeast Asia. With city tours like Hop on hop off Kuala Lumpur, the fare is about RM38-75 per trip (24 hours or 48 hours). Other activities such as trekking in the forest are about RM35-75. If you want to go to the sea and playing on the islands, then you can choose to dive. The price for a snorkeling trip will be RM245-300 and the diving course will be only RM830-1325.

Malaysia travel blog: Some tips to save money when traveling to Malaysia

Pre-booking tickets, services, tours.

For those who already have self-sufficiency travel experience, reservation of air tickets for travel Malaysia is probably should not discussed. However, if you are new to self-sufficiency traveling, the “hunt” for cheap tickets is one of the top priority. With Malaysia destination, AirAsia is a good option to find cheap tickets because it is headquartered in Malaysia and often has promotions.

Beside airline tickets, pre-booking services, tours, tickets will also help you save more cost and time. In many cases, you will save up to 30- 40% more than buying tickets directly, especially at the famous amusement parks such as Sunway Lagoon, The Lost World of Tampon or national parks. Or when you traveling go with a large group of people, buying tickets in advance will also help you to plan your leisure and entertainment more appropriately.

Moving by public transport

To save the best cost when traveling Malaysia self-sufficient, you should choose the public transport. This system is especially popular in Kuala Lumpur with buses and MRT, LRT, KLIA Express, KTM Commuter, … The price per trip is usually not more than RM50 and you can buy Touch-n-go card and MyRapid card to reduce the cost of the trip. For example, with a MyRapid card the price for a bus trip is about RM0.8 (compared to direct buy is RM1). In addition, if you go in large groups, you can take a taxi but need to bargaining before getting up the car.

Limit drink wine and alcoholic beverages

Malaysia’s religion is Islamic so the rules on drinking are very strict. Although visitors are not prohibited from drinking, but the costs of beer, wine, cocktails and alcoholic beverages are often expensive. Therefore, you should limit yourself to a certain amount of money for beverages is one of the best ways to save money.

Enjoy street food

Similar Thailand, you can find for yourself all kinds of street food, full flavors and variety price on the streets of Malaysia. Not only delicious, these dishes are quite cheap, the prices range from a few to a few dozen ringgit (RM). The only thing you have to keep in mind is choosing the right place for quality and clean. The secret is to choose places where there are many local people dining, this assures you both of price and quality.

Malaysia blog: How to get to Malaysia?

From Vietnam you can fly to Malaysia from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City by airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Jetstar and AirAsia. These airlines have direct flights to Malaysia with the price ranging from RM800 to RM1250 for a round-trip ticket. One thing to note is that AirAsia often has the most discounted rates for this route flight.

By road, railway

From Singapore: From the island you can take the bus to Johor Bahru, from here you continue to travel by bus to Melaka and Putrajaya and finish the journey by train to the capital of Malaysia.

From Thailand: From Thailand’s Hat Yai tourist destination, you can either take a bus or train to Kuala Lumpur directly.

Malaysia travel guide: How to get from Kuala Lumpur Airport to city?

When you arrival at the airport in Kuala Lumpur , it is about 50km from the city center, so you can moving into the center by a shuttle bus for around RM10. You can also easily buy bus tickets at the ticket counter at the airport hall. This bus operates on average about 30 minutes per trip.

Malaysia travel blog: How to getting around Malaysia?

To travel around in Malaysia you have many ways such as plane, bus, train … You should remember the railway stations, the main bus stations and the main public transports here.

Main railway stations, major bus stations in Malaysia

KL Sentral: This is the largest traffic hub in the capital of Kuala Lumpur , which is also the stopping point for most public transports in the city. You can easily find useful information about tourist attractions and local tours in Malaysia.

Pudu Station (or Puduraya): This is a bus station located in the center of the city and just 100 meters from China Town, 50 meters from the subway station and 300 meters from the Central Market.

Bandar Tasik Selatan (TBSBTS): This is the last stop of the bus routes from the South, at this stop you can choose services of RapidKL LRT, KLIA Transit and taxi.

The main means of transportation in Malaysia

LRT: LRT (Light Rail Transit) is a type of tram in Kuala Lumpur, with two main lines: LRT Kelana Jaya and LRT Ampang Line. Read more:  Guide to LRT Kuala Lumpur — LRT Kuala Lumpur route, timetable & fare .

KL Monorail: This type of high tram is quite popular in Malaysia, including the important stations are Bukit Bintang, Tuah Cave (transit point), Maharajalela (near China Town).

KTM Komuter: This type of train operates with two main routes: Tanjung Malim – Sungai Gadut and Batu Caves – Pelabuhan Klang. It connects most of the outskirts towns of the city such as Rawang, Sungai Gadut, Seremban, Pelabuhan Klang, Tanjung Malim.

Bus: This type of public transport popular in Malaysia has six specific routes: KV1 runs in the city center, KV2 runs in the North City, KV3 runs in the East City, KV4 runs in the South East, KV5 runs in the South and KV6 runs in the West.

Taxi: Taxi here is quite expensive and according to the Malaysia travel experience you should only choose this vehicle if you do not choose alternative vehicles. The opening price is about RM3, approximately ~$1, nearly double in Vietnam.

Malaysia travel blog: Best places to visit and top things to do in Malaysia

West coast of the malay peninsula, kuala lumpur.

Bustling, prosperous and full of fun, Kuala Lumpur is a great place for you to joining in fun games, shopping, or simply enjoy Kuala Lumpur cuisine in the small streets. Combination of Malaysian, Indian and Chinese culture, the capital of Kuala Lumpur is full of entertainment activities for all visitors.

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s most important destination, is also the capital of Malaysia, with its symbol is the Petronas Twin Towers. Inside the tower is the famous shopping area Suria KLCC. Some of the British colonial buildings left include the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Merdeka Square, and the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. In the city center there is Chinatown with many Chinese shops and eateries. The green of the city is concentrated in Lake Garden Park. It is not far from is the National Mosque of Malaysia, architecture is influenced by Islam. If you prefer shopping, go to the famous shopping district of Bukit Bintang, visit BB Plaza or Berjaya Times Square. Other attractions include Southeast Asia’s largest Islamic Art Museum IAMM, Muzium Negara National Museum, Zoo Negara National Zoo, Istana Budaya National Theater, and north of Kuala Lumpur is Batu Caves, where located of the Hindu Lord Murugan statue. From Kuala Lumpur, it is possible to ride to the resort on the Genting Highlands plateau, another important destination of Malaysian tourism.

Read more: 

• Kuala Lumpur blog (KL blog) — The fullest guide for a budget trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia .
• Kuala Lumpur 1 day itinerary — How to spend 24 hours in Kuala Lumpur ?
• Where to stay in KL? — Top 8 best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur for the first-timers .
• 5 cool Kuala Lumpur souvenir shops you should visit .

Putrajaya located 30km from the south of Kuala Lumpur, is Malaysia’s federal administrative center, formerly known as Prang Besar. There are magnificent buildings such as Perdana Putra, Putra Mosque, Seri Perdana, Taman Putra Perdana, Millennium Monument and Jambatan Seri Wawasan Bridge. Do not miss this place on your journey in Malaysia.

The big island of western Malaysia, is also a state name of Malaysia, includes Penang Island and part of the land adjacent to it. Penang is the central point of Malaysia tourism thanks to its rich cultural and ethnic diversity and rich culinary life. Some of the popular attractions are Penang Hill / Bukit Bendera, Penang Botanic Gardens, Kek Lok Si Temple, combined style of Khmer, Thai and Chinese, Penang Butterfly Farm, Snake Temple and War Museum. Some notable cities of Penang state are Georgetown, Butterworth and Nibong Tebal.

• Penang travel blog — The fullaest guide for a budget trip to Penang of Malaysia .
• Best areas to stay in Penang — Top 5 best places to stay in Penang for the first-timers .
• Penang travel tips — Some best tips for traveling and dining in Penang Island, Malaysia .
• Exploring Penang – Things to do & what to see in The Pearl of the Orient of Malaysia .
• Penang Malaysia things to do — 9 awesome things to do in Penang from cooking curries to zip-lining .
• Penang food blog — 10 best street food in Penang & best places to find them .
• 4 reasons why you should visit Penang .
• Penang street art — Wonderful street art painting in George Town of Penang .

Georgetown is the capital of Penang state, is also one of the most attractive destinations in Malaysia. Georgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, combining the influence of Chinese culture and Islamic culture with the remains of British colonialists. Some best places to visit are Cheong Fatt Tze Building on Leith Street, Pulau Pinang City Council Building, Cornwallis Citadel on Light Street, Little India, Armenian Heritage Street with many colonial buildings, Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, Queen Victoria Clock Tower, Wat Chaiyamangalaram Temple, Dhammikarama Temple, Kapitan Keling Mosque, Hainan Temple on Munri Road, Kuan Yin Teng Ancient House, St. George’s Church and Church of the Assumption. Georgetown is also considered one of Malaysia’s best places to eat. Explore the Indian, Chinese, Malay and Western cuisines on the streets of this city.

Melaka / Malacca

Another Malaysia’s heritage is recognized by UNESCO, with the history and culture influenced by Portuguese, Dutch and British under colonial period. Melaka contributes to the Malaysia’s tourism outstanding attractions such as the Baba Museum and Nyonya Peranakan located in an old Peranakan house, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Christ Church Protestant, Dutch Square with Tang Beng Swee Clock Tower, Jonker Street, Heeren Road and adjacent streets – the old center of Malacca next to the Malacca River, the Masjid Kampung Hulu Mosque, the Porta de Santiago, the Stadthuys Dutch architectural building, Bukit China cemetery, Hang Li Po Well (King’s Well), Poh San Teng Temple and Geok Hu Keng Temple.

• Where to eat in Melaka? — Best restaurants in Melaka & best places to eat in Melaka .
• Melaka food blog — Experience Melaka delicacies, arrived at by Trishaw .
• Malacca travel blog — The fullest guide to discover Malacca, Malaysia .

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Malaysia Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS • 2024)

So, you’re considering Backpacking Malaysia, well, you’re in for a bloody treat mate!

It was 2016 and I had been travelling through Southeast Asia for roughly 6 months, with the stalwarts of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos under my belt, it was time for the next adventure: Backpacking Malaysia. Little did I know at the time, but I was about to journey into one of my favourite countries and somewhere I would return to time and time again. 

My love affair with Malaysia started of course, in bustling KL. It took me to the bright colours of colonial Penang, the stunning shores of Langkawi, the rolling hillsides of the Cameron highlands, the magical jungles of Borneo and beyond. 

Malaysia felt like it offered everything a traveller could want all in one neat package of reliable transport, English as a second language, easy visa entry and super friendly locals. Yet those conveniences didn’t leave it feeling sterile or “too easy”. 

Instead, it left me with more energy, mental space and time to fully immerse in the delights that Malaysia laid out before me: Culture, landscape, nature, cuisine and diversity. It’s got it all! 

And now, amigos, I am proud to unveil the broke backpacker guide to backpacking Malaysia on a budget…

Why Go Backpacking in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a country full of variation and surprises, and after a couple of weeks travelling around the numerous regions and areas of Malaysia , it truly left me wanting more. You can explore beautiful beaches, jungle, eat amazing street food, and, of course, check out some beautiful temples (this is Asia after all).

Whether you want to get off the beaten path in Malaysian Borneo , view orangutans and trek through remote jungles, or you just want to chill on a beach all day, there is a destination in Malaysia for you.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Malaysia

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Below are a few of my favourite spots that I recommend checking out on your own adventure backpacking across Malaysia.

Backpacking Malaysia 2-Week Itinerary: Malaysia’s Highlights

This itinerary is perfect if you have 2-3 weeks to backpack Malaysia. With three weeks you could take your time, and spend more time on the islands.

Start your trip staying in Kuala Lumpur , also known as KL. Take a side trip to visit the Batu Caves , full of Hindu shrines. Climbers, you can hang out here for a couple days since there are over 160 rock climbing routes!

Next, we head to the Cameron Highlands, a “highlight” of your trip. These hill stations grow tea, coffee, and fresh fruit. Make sure to go on a local tour. One of the world’s oldest rainforests, Taman Negara , isn’t far. Adventurers can go on jungle treks lasting a week or more.

Afterwards, head to Penang and get lost in the beautiful colonial streets, venture through vibrant Little India and follow the street art around the city. Afterwards, find a chill  place to stay in Langkawi for some quality beach time.

If you have an extra week, head to the  Perhentian islands  on the other side of Malaysia for some epic diving!

• Best Places to Visit in Penang
• Penang Travel Itinerary
• Best Places to Visit in Langkawi
• Langkawi Travel Itinerary

Backpacking Malaysia 3-Week Itinerary: Jungles and Malaysia National Parks

I haven’t been to this part of Malaysia, but I created this itinerary for your inspiration. This is the perfect itinerary for outdoor lovers and adventurers who want to get far off the beaten path in Malaysia’s most undeveloped region: Borneo, an island Malaysia that shares borders with Indonesia, and one of the last places on earth you can see endangered orangutans.

Start by staying in Kuching , Sarawak’s small capital, as a base. Don’t miss the  Semenggoh orang-utan sanctuary to see endangered orangutans. This is a rewarding day-trip. Next head to Bako , Sarawak’s oldest national park. Here you will come across monkeys, fauna, and waterfalls!

Afterward, take a boat through the rivers and forests of Batang Ai. Gunung Mulu National Park offers wonderful jungle scenery and a three-day trek through a network of limestone karsts and caverns.

Next head to Miri and Niah National Park. If you like to hike, get to Bario for some multi-trekking through remote longhouses and up mountains. End your trip staying in Kota Kinabalu , Sabah’s capital. Visit the district with traditional over-water houses and spend your evenings at the markets.

If you have the time (and money), you can summit Malaysia’s toughest climb, Mount Kinabalu . Last I heard a permit was over $100 and you have to hire a guide.

Malaysia is a fantastically varied country with so much to explore! Here are my top picks of the coolest places to visit on a backpacking trip to Malaysia.

Backpacking Kuala Lumpur

This is the capital of Malaysia and arguably the most westernised place you’ll visit while in Malaysia. This is often where most backpackers in Malaysia will start, as it is the main hub for international flights. I only spent a short time in Kuala Lumpur, as it was a lot more expensive than the other areas I visited but I was the great food, vibrant and varied culture(s) and the surprisingly decent hiking trails through urban jungle.

The Batu Caves are a short and cheap KTM metro ride from central Kuala Lumpur. The incredible Tamil temple and shrine attracts both worshippers and visitors alike. It isn’t one for the unfit; to get inside the temple you have a great stair workout ahead of you and the humidity will make sure even the fittest person ends with beautiful sweat stains.

At the top, explore the inside of the cave and meet the locals… monkeys! In 2016, major renovation work was done inside the cave, but now things are quiet again with everything looking in tip-top shape.

On the way down from the Batu Caves stop at the Bat Cave and take the 45-minute tour inside, wandering into complete darkness, to meet the animals that live down here. You may see spiders, bats, snakes, scorpions, and plenty of cave-dwelling bugs. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and it’s an experience that a lot of travellers miss on the way down!

If you haven’t spent all your money before you leave KUL, head up the KUL tower . It’s around $25 for both decks. Here you will get a pretty awesome view of the city, even better in the evening! Make sure you take a good cheesy picture with the Petronas Towers!

Backpacking Kedah

When entering Malaysia from Thailand, you will most likely pass through the beautiful state of Kedah. While most travellers will just pass through, Kedah has plenty to offer and it’s worth stopping to explore. Explore some of the first European Colonial Streets and experience the beauty of Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai) .

The ancient Malays proclaimed Gunung Jerai sacred and some stunning temples were built throughout the mountain; many of them are still standing today. If you want to know more, the cheeky Malays have placed a great information board at the top of the mountain – all you have to do is climb 1175 meters to reach it!

Backpacking Langkawi

Both a popular spot for visa-runs for Thailand and a great place to chill out for a few days, the peaceful island of Langkawi sits upon an ancient limestone shelf and is home to one of Southeast Asia’s largest eagle populations. This is a great place to head off on an adventure and if you head away from the party beaches you will find some great treks, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Cenang Beach is where most of the action is. There’s plenty of jet skiing and other watersports, but the beach itself is not that great and is usually pretty crowded. To see the real Langkawi hire a motorbike and take to the open road for a day of exploring.

Whilst in Langkawi, I took to the trees with Skytrex Adventure for an action-packed afternoon of high ropes (don’t look down!) and zip-lining through the Forest Canopy. I’ve done a few high ropes and zip-lining courses around the world and this was one of the more challenging ones. It’s definitely worth a go if you want to kick-start your day.

There are a lot of great accommodation options in Langkawi. There are some awesome homestays in Langkawi as well as everything from chilled backpacker dorms and quiet Airbnbs to super posh resorts if you plan on splashing out.

However, if you want to stay somewhere really decent that is also affordable, I recommend the Yacht Club Hotel . This hotel has a cool bar offering a great view over the attached Marina where you can boat-watch as people bring their yachts (lucky bastards) in for the night. This hotel also has some of the best WiFi I found on Langkawi so if you need to work, it’s a good place to stay. Otherwise, I’d recommend checking out this breakdown on the best places to stay in Langkawi from my mate Bren.

Backpacking Penang

Being one of the first major areas in Malaysia occupied by the Europeans as well as an ex-trading hub for ships around the world, Penang’s beautiful neighbourhoods keeps much of its colonial heritage intact. It’s an incredible place to chill for a couple of days.

‘Old Penang’ is one of the best places to go for a stroll and is filled with UNESCO sites. It’s a bit like stepping back in time…

Hire a bike for cheap – only around $5 for the day – and explore George Town and its legendary street art. Get lost in the beautiful colonial streets, venture through vibrant Little India, and follow the street art around the city. There are so many things to do in Penang;  it’s a beautiful city!

You can’t go to Penang and not visit Kek Lok Si Temple or ‘Temple of Ultimate Happiness’. This Buddhist temple faces the sea and overlooks the ever-growing city of new and old Penang. You can hire a guide at the car park relatively cheap, which I highly recommend. The guide will immerse you in the incredibly beautiful and sometimes, gory history behind each of the 10,000 carved symbols.

If this doesn’t convince you, this temple also has one of the biggest statues you will ever see – standing at 99ft (seven stories) Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy is pretty awe-inspiring. Get to this temple around Chinese New Year. Why? Well for 30 days the temple is decorated with thousands of lanterns. This sight is so beautiful that it will give you goosebumps.

Ever wondered what a Burmese Temple looked like?

Dharmikarma Temple is a favourite of mine due to its quirkiness! Explore the gardens of the temple and you will come across a Giant Globe. It is said if you focus on your hearts desires, close your eyes, and point, you will be directed to where you need to go – while also taking a cheesy picture of yourself.

You’ll also find a wishing well of fortune? Throw a coin and land it in one of the moving, engraved cups; each with a different future trait – I got Bon Voyage; I think it was pretty accurate.

Backpacking Cameron Highlands

A relatively new backpacker area, the Cameron Highlands are breathtakingly beautiful and should not be missed when travelling in Malaysia. Moving away from the cities and hitting the dirt roads, you will see some truly gorgeous mountainous scenery, cascading tea plantations, and mysterious cloud forest, making it one of the best places to stay in Malaysia.

When you’re staying in Cameron Highlands , I really recommend hiring a car (or a man with a van) and navigate the dirt track roads leading you into the incredible tea plantations. Learn about the tea-making process – which is actually a lot more interesting than I first thought it would be – sample the leaves, take a walk through the plantations, and even befriend the pickers who will laugh at your attempt at picking the correct leaves at a quick pace… It’s harder than it looks!

I hired a local guide and we went into the cloud forest in search for the rare and beautiful Rafflesia (one of the world’s largest flowers). It kind of looks like a giant upside down mushroom, but more red, and, according to my guide depending on the time of year, it smells like a dead elephant – thankfully it did not when we found it.

Hacking my way through the cloud forest was incredible. The trails are not well trodden, the views are incredible (when the trees break) and the knowledge the locals have on the plants and conservation in the area is extraordinary. If you’re after a real adventure whilst backpacking Malaysia, this is it.

Backpacking Melaka

A three-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur, this beautiful small town has an incredibly strange obsession with Hello Kitty, and the city itself resembles a small town in Europe. Once the ‘must-see’ place in Malaysia before Kuala Lumpur developed, it is now a much sleepier backpacker city with mass tourism having moved to the other ever-growing cities within Malaysia. Melaka is a cheap place to hang out, making it a perfect rest stop for broke backpackers travelling in Malaysia.

UNESCO protected, Melaka is filled with an incredible history and many of the old colonial buildings are still in great condition. Melaka is easy to navigate by bicycle or foot. Wander the streets and enjoy the bright colours, colonial buildings, and reflective water canals.

Head down Jonker Street where the city’s heritage meets some crazy museums, awesome market shopping, and some epic Malaysian food . It’s a little quirky and a great place to find things you will never need but want anyway. Melaka is definitely a stop you shouldn’t miss when backpacking Malaysia.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Malaysia

Borneo is without a doubt the way to go. Borneo is Asia’s biggest island and a rather intriguing oddity of Malaysia’s backpacking trail.

More than half of Borneo is Indonesian territory with the remaining being Malaysia EXCEPT for two small sections which comprise the country of Brunei. Brunei is also very off the Southeast Asia backpacking trail , however, that’s for good reason: we don’t speak of Brunei.

Borneo is a nature lover’s paradise. You can head to Kuching as a base – or stay in Kota Kinabalu in Sabah – however, once you head outside of these semi-touristed areas, you’re just looking at pure jungle wilderness.

Borneo is world-famous for its population of endangered orangutans, however, there’s heaps more to the island too! All manner of rare and exotic wildlife can be seen on Borneo, and there’s heaps of world-class diving and trekking too.

The culture of Borneo is very different from mainland Malaysia with a whole host of different ethnic groups and intricacies. You’re heading pretty far out into the sticks, so exploring takes effort and time, but isn’t that the whole point of getting off the beaten path?

If you feel extra explorer lazy, though, you could take a tour with Global Work and Travel . They at least let broke backpackers pay in instalments which is really quite nice of them!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Jungles, temples, caves, ruins, bustling metropolises, backpacker bubbles, and a whole host of exquisite beaches dotted around Malaysia … There’s so much stuff to do in Malaysia, but here are my personal picks!

1. Climb around the Batu Caves

Head outside of Kuala Lumpur to explore these limestone cliffs and caves, which represent Hindu shrines and a site for pilgimage. Climbers rejoice! There are over 160 routes in the area.

2. Hit the Beach in Langkawi

Langkawi is among the best islands in Malaysia . It’s an inhabited island in an archipelago of over a hundred islands in the Andaman Sea. Langkawi Island is popular with both backpackers and honeymooners and has something to suit all budgets.

3. Visit Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

This park is a collection of five islands found off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. This is a popular place to hike, trek, swim, and dive, especially in March which is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu .

4. Eat the Street Food

Try the authentic food, which in my opinion is not as spicy as Thai food and is, in fact, more flavorful. You will get a HUGE portion for such a tiny price – Malaysia seriously has some of the best street food in the world !

5. Get your Culture on in Malacca

Malacca or Melaka has interesting architecture and a high concentration of museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore.

6. Island Hop the Perhentian is

Blissful and balmy tropical islands? Malaysia has those too! Come here for fresh seafood and scuba diving. The islands can be visited by ferry and water taxis operate between the various islands giving visitors the chance to island-hop at their leisure.

7. Haggle for Souvenirs

This is super common in Malaysia and also great fun. The only way to get a good deal is to bargain. Make sure you read up on how to haggle before you go so you’re ready to negotiate like a pro!

8. Hang Out With Endangered Orangutans

Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre is one of the biggest and most well-known orangutan sanctuaries in Malaysia. The sanctuary is located nearby Sandakan.

9. Explore Gunung Mulu National Park

Located in East Malaysia, this park is known for its caves and karst formations. There are ample hiking opportunities around the caves and rainforest!

10. Hang Out in the Cameron Highlands

These hill stations provide visitors with cool water and fun tea and coffee plantation tours! You can also fruit pick at one of the many fruit farms.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Hostels are only just beginning to pop up throughout Malaysia. During my time there, I chose to stay at guesthouses rather than the hostels, as they were cheaper! These days, however, there’s an increasing number of hostels and eco-friendly accommodation in Malaysia .

Throughout Malaysia, guesthouses, hotels, Airbnb, or being hosted with CouchSurfing will be your main options for accommodation. Guesthouses are fantastically priced for us broke backpackers and you can score a bed for as little as $5-$15 a night!

If you are backpacking Malaysia in peak season use Airbnb as an alternative. Often just as cheap, the added bonus is you may get a whole apartment! If not, you’ll at least make some awesome local friends. 

Or pack your camping hammock instead and sleep for free! Some hostels will charge you for amenities and some restaurants won’t even charge you a dime.

Unmarried couples generally won’t have a problem travelling and staying together when in Malaysia. You may have to request a double bed in some places (if necessary) but otherwise, you will be met with friendliness and the beautiful hospitality that Malaysian people are famous for.

The Best Places to Stay in Malaysia

You can backpack Malaysia for as little as $15 a day.  Sometimes it’ll be more if you want a fancy cocktail rather than a beer for a change.

However, with a few basic travel tips for Malaysia , you’re budget will be easy to keep in check. Stick to cheap guesthouses, good street food, and buses rather than flights and trains and you shouldn’t spend more than forty dollars a day.

A Daily Budget in Malaysia

Money in malaysia.

DO NOT buy Malaysian Ringgit before travelling to Malaysia. Why? You will get a crappy exchange rate. Money is easily exchanged upon arrival in Malaysia, and you’ll get a much better exchange rate in the country.

Malaysia accepts the majority of international cards so long as they are Visa or MasterCard, but many of these charge pretty insane withdrawal fees. It’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once – just make sure you hide it well (pack a travel money belt for this).

When travelling to rural areas, cash is always best because ATMs will become scarce fast. If arriving by land, exchange only what you absolutely need before entering Malaysia. Some drivers will accept US dollars as payment if you have nothing else, but don’t count on it.

Once you head into the rural areas don’t expect ATMs anywhere. Carry cash with you, just enough for what you will be doing and a hidden backup stash in case of delays.

Travel Tips – Malaysia on a Budget

Sometimes things are country specific, sometimes they’re just the golden rules of budget backpacking . Either way, if you’re backpacking Malaysia on a shoestring budget, here are some tips to stretch your money further.

• Eat the Street Food: Put your stomach to the test! Nah, just kidding. The street food in Malaysia is awesome and I didn’t encounter any stomach or bathroom problems while here. The trick, as with anywhere serving street food, is to go for the one that already has a queue. No one queues for bad food. This will be the cheapest way to eat, but if you’re not convinced, then head to the food courts (which are basically the same thing).
• Haggle: It is commonplace while market shopping to haggle for your goods. Even if you think it is cheap for you without haggling, you are not getting the local price or a good deal. It’s heaps of fun as well, so get your game face on and snag some random goodies!
• Guesthouses: Cheaper than most hostels and way cheaper than hotels, this is the best way to save money while travelling through Malaysia. They’re often family-run too, so you will meet some awesome locals. If you want to book something online, Hostelworld offers some of the best deals in Asia.
• Couchsurfing: A fantastic way to travel without spending money ! You’ll make local friends and see a whole other side to the tourist part of town. Just be sure to cook your host a meal to say thank you for putting you up!
• Hitchhike: Hitchhiking is a great way to meet the locals, and it may even score you a free bed for the night as well – two for one is always good right? If you’re not comfortable hitchhiking, take the bus: it’s super cheap and relatively comfortable.

Why You Should Travel to Malaysia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Malaysian seasons range from wet, comfortable, hot and humid. The West and East Coast can experience completely different weather from one another so it really depends on where you want to go in Malaysia.

Overall, the west coast is best between October to March , and the East coast is best from March to October .

The east coast gets quite a bit more rain than the west, and if travelling to Malaysia in the wet season, you may find a lot of stores, hotels and guesthouses closed. I travelled around Malaysia from December to the end of January and the weather was spot on.

Festivals in Malaysia

Given the massive cultural and ethnic spread in Malaysia, there’s a huge range of festivals to go wild at too. Religious shebangers, cultural shindigs, and musical shemozzles – it’s a blast.

• Thaipusam (January/February) – If you’ve ever wanted to watch men stick spikes through their cheeks and shake what their mumma gave them, this is your chance! One of the most important festivals for Tamil people, things really kick off in Kuala Lumpur and the Batu Caves around this time of year.
• Malaysia Water Festival (April) – The concept is pretty similar to the Thailand Water Festival: everyone gets out in the streets with super soakers and water balloons. There are other activities too, but really, this one’s all about H2- whOa .
• Gawai Harvest Festival (June) – If you’re looking for something a little more esoteric, than get yourself Sarawak (in Borneo) at the start of June. It’s a harvest festval – similar to Pagan festivals in concept – hugely important to a number of indigenous peoples of the Sarawak area. Expect to be fed… a lot.
• Rainforest World Music Festival (July) – Also held in Sarawak, this world-famous international music festival sees a lot of ecclectic artists grace its stage. You get quite a variety of music, however, traditional music, world fusion, and other contemporary international styles tend to be the main affair.

What to Pack for Malaysia

Malaysia has to be one of my favourite places in Asia for shopping and you will find that most people – especially in the busier areas – take a lot of pride in what they wear. The more modern areas of Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur will be a lot more westernised in their dress sense; you can pretty much wear what you would at home on a day-to-day basis with only a few exceptions.

In the more rural areas it is a wise to be respectful and dress a little more conservatively, especially if you are a woman. Although Malaysia is a melting pot with a mixture of religions, the most prominent practice is that of Islam (and the Islamic dress sense ).

Showing a lot of flesh for men or women will attract a lot of attention or, worst-case scenario, cause offence. Jeans and a t-shirt, covering shoulders and cleavage is perfectly fine. Try to keep shorts/skirts/dresses at or just below the knee. Tight and fitted clothing will attract attention such as harmless stares.

You also shouldn’t forget your backpacking essentials! Here are the pieces of gear that I never go travelling without. For even more packing ideas, check out my list gear to take backpacking !

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Malaysia is completely safe for travel. The majority of people you will meet when travelling in Malaysia are incredibly friendly and genuine people.

Malaysia is a peaceful country and incredibly accepting and respectful of other cultures; be respectful back and don’t break the rules. If you do, you may find yourself in a bit of a tough spot.

As long as you stick to the basic tips for travelling safe , you’ll be totally gravy.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the worlds toughest countries when it comes to drugs. If you get caught with drugs you’ll most likely get a mandatory prison sentence or even worse, the death penalty. I’d recommend avoiding drugs altogether when travelling Malaysia, but if you’re going to dabble in these illicit substances, then at least be sure that you’re keyed in on taking drugs on the road .

Alcohol in Malaysia is pretty pricey because it is forbidden for Muslims to drink. However, those who are not Muslim are free to drink if they wish. Many restaurants won’t serve alcohol but will turn a blind eye to those bringing in their own to have with their meal.

House parties are pretty common in Malaysia and are heaps of fun! You’ll find modern clubs in the main cities such as Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Be prepared to pay a pretty penny to get in!

Travel Insurance for Malaysia

Travelling without insurance would be risky, so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. It’s definitely a smart idea to have travel insurance for Malaysia.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

I arrived in Malaysia by travelling from Thailand across the Thai/Malay border. We hired a local man and his van to drive us to the border in Thailand and then walked through and caught another man in a van on the other side.

There are long-distance bus services that will take you from Thailand to Malaysia as well, but this costs a little more and takes a little longer as well. If you’re short on time or simply a baller, flights from Thailand to Kuala Lumpur are very cheap.

If you’re coming from outside of Asia, the International flight’s hub is Kuala Lumpur, and you can get great deals with an array of different airlines. I have found Malaysian Airlines and Emirates (via Dubai) to offer some of the best prices into Malaysia.

Flying to other airports in Malaysia is easily done but will often cost more and you will stopover in Kuala Lumpur anyway, so you may as well hop off and explore!

Entry Requirements for Malaysia

As of 2016, the majority of nationalities will be able to get a visa on arrival for Malaysia for no cost at all, which is fantastic! For the UK and a number of other nations, you will be permitted to stay for a maximum of 3 months on arrival, but be careful not to overstay this. Malaysia, unlike many other Asian countries, is having a big crackdown on illegal immigration and overstaying your visa may be a tricky (and expensive) situation to get out of.

If you know you will be staying longer than 3 months in Malaysia, it is recommended you visit the Malaysian Diplomatic Mission  in your own country to obtain the correct visa. If you are in the country, head to your local embassy or otherwise just hop out of the country and come back in again.

Once through immigration, Malaysia is a relatively safe and welcoming place to travel. A couple of months is heaps of time to explore this beautiful country. Entering overland into the country you will have your fingerprints taken, passport scanned, and you may be asked about your exit plans, especially if you don’t have a flight out of the country booked.

Malaysian immigration is not new to backpackers so as long as you have an idea of how you will leave, you should be fine. It’s a good idea to have a rough idea of when/how you will be leaving and someone you can call who will vouch for you, just in case. If you need help organising your visa, try using iVisa.

It only takes 2 minutes!  Book your transport on 12Go now  and guarantee your seat easily.

Malaysian roads are top-notch in tourist areas but will quickly turn to gravel and dirt tracks as you venture further away from backpacker hubs and out of the cities. All the same, your options for public transport in Malaysia are plentiful! It’s easy to get around Malaysia.

One of the best ways to get around when backpacking in Malaysia is by bus. Buses are a comfortable and affordable way to travel around Malaysia, however, they’re not the fastest option. Most buses have English translations and super helpful drivers.

It may take longer than flying but buses tend to be air-conditioned and the scenery is pretty beautiful. I wouldn’t recommend using buses in the cities though; they are slow, more expensive and due to congestion are not able to stop exactly where you need to be.

Malaysia is revamping its train service and if you are looking to get from the top to the bottom pretty quickly, it’s a comfortable ride. I didn’t use the long-distance train service whilst backpacking Malaysia, but it is perfect for those short on time.

It is pricier than the bus service and most train services run on a one-line system that will restrict the stopping options you have on the way through the country.

I did not take any domestic flights within Asia but you can pick these up relatively cheap in-country through the likes of Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia for as little as $10 – $30 , one-way, to most destinations in Malaysia. If you only have a short time in Malaysia, this is a great way to travel.

Driving in Malaysia, once out of major cities, is relatively straightforward, and I would dare to say, one of the safest places to drive in Southeast Asia. With good road infrastructure in the cities, traffic lights and well-marked signs your biggest pest will be tailgating and the lack of signal use.

Venture into the countryside expect gravel and dirt roads but beautiful and plentiful view stops. If you are exploring by car in monsoon season, I would recommend hiring a 4×4 car if possible. Getting stuck in the mud is never too much fun!

Kuala Lumpur’s metro is the best, if not, then the only way to travel inner city. The metro will connect to all the must-see places in town as well as the shopping district, nightlife, and areas such as Little India. They even have air-con!

Running every few minutes, why waste your time and money hailing a taxi when the metro will beat the traffic and even take you as far out as the Batu Caves?! Ladies, there is even female-only carriages if you are travelling alone and/or feeling slightly anxious about mixed carriages and local customs.

In Malaysia, you’ll get the best deal on a metered taxi. Don’t jump in a non-metered taxi without agreeing on the price first. You will definitely pay A LOT more than you need to.

Always haggle the price with a non-metered taxi. If they won’t budge, move on, and always check if there’s someone with a much better deal.

To travel around Malaysia quickly would involve a lot of flights, but you’d be missing out on some epic overland scenery and road-trips. Travelling in Malaysia is, after all, a part of the appeal. There is so much to be seen from the road…

Rather than just rocking up at the bus stop in the hope they will have space to fit you on, you can now book tickets in advance for most of Southeast Asia using 12Go ! I love 12Go and used it myself pretty often when backpacking around Malaysia.

Hitchhiking in Malaysia

Hitchhiking in Malaysia is uncommon but not at all difficult. For broke backpackers on a tight budget, hitchhiking offers one of the most cost-effective ways to get around whilst backpacking Malaysia.

The busier roads in Malaysia are often highways, which can make scoring a ride a little tricky. The best tip I was given was to put yourself in a spot that if you score a ride and they come in at speed, you can get out the way. Malaysians are curious and ridiculously friendly, so on a good day, it shouldn’t take you longer than 5 minutes to hitch a ride.

Expect short distance riding, especially in rural areas where not many people are driving by. It’s far more likely you will catch lots of short rides rather than one long one. Make friends with other tourists at gas stations and café stops. You never know who has a spare seat in their car.

Before hopping in the car it’s a good idea to clear the air and make sure the driver is aware you are hitchhiking, not hailing a taxi. That would make for an awkward exit…

Top Tips for Hitchhiking in Malaysia

• Take a road map of Malaysia : It isn’t exactly necessary, but it may help you out in a pinch. Plus, doing it old-school is just a blast!
• Look like a tourist: People know what hitchhiking is and they are interested in foreign visitors, so make sure you look like a tourist. On busy roads, sometimes the wait time is less than 5 minutes.
• Don’t hitch right on the motorway: Unlike in other countries in Asia, it’s not advisable to hitchhike right on the motorway. Police won’t bother, but cars are much less likely to stop if they are too fast or there is no safe place to stop.
• Have a sign with ‘Tumpang’ written on it: This can help, especially if you choose to walk on the Expressway.
• Learn some useful phrases:  Drivers usually speak English, so a few local phrases like the ones below will help!
• Read our Hitchhiking 101 Guide : It helps!
• Where are you going? – Di Mana anda akan pergi?
• I am going to… – Saya mahu pergi ke…
• Please stop here. – Sila berhenti di sini.
• I have no money. – Saya tidak ada duit.
• Thank You – Terima Kasih (Treema-Kahseh)
• I am hitchhiking. – Saya sedang hitchhiking.

Onwards Travel from Malaysia

The main peninsula of Malaysia shares borders with Singapore and Thailand , both of which are relatively easy to cross. To cross the overland route from Malaysia and travel to Singapore requires A LOT of time and patience though. Malaysia also borders with Indonesia if you are over in Borneo.

Thinking about backpacking in The Philippines or Indonesia after Malaysia? Why not follow in the footsteps of the explorers of old and hop on a boat? With some journeys taking just eight hours to reach the Philippines, and ferry prices being relatively cheap, catching a boat out of Malaysia can be an adventurous alternative to flying…

Onwards travel to Indonesia  via ferry is not as common as it once was and these days it can be hard to find a boat heading in the right direction. Melaka is the best place to find a ferry onwards to Malaysia. From here, it is likely your arrival port will be Padang (Sumatra) in Indonesia.

Onwards travel to the Philippines via ferry is recommended from Sandakan using either Aleson Lines or SRN Fastcraft. Neither of these companies offer comprehensive websites, so check the latest information when in country and haggle for the best price. Aleson Lines takes around 16hrs while SRN Fastcraft is only 8hrs to reach the Philippines.

For a more adventurous and unique way to sail to Indonesia or the Philippines (or really anywhere else) check out findacrew.net . Basically, this is Couchsurfing for sailors. You will find locals, travellers, and expats with their own boats looking for crew to help them adventure oversea to their next destination.

It’s perfect if you have a lot of time on your hands and a limited (or non-existent) budget. Many captains don’t require you to have any previous experience and you may even get paid a little for helping out!

Personally, I can’t think of a better way to begin a new adventure after backpacking Malaysia. I will definitely be trying this on my next trip to Malaysia.

Malaysia is a primo spot for working travellers and one that a lot of long-term backpackers and digital nomads end up in. While rural and off-track areas of Malaysia can still be pretty crazy, cities and touristed areas are very modern and, at times, Westernised. Kuala Lumpur alone is a hugely crucial international business and trade hub with plenty of foreigners expatting there.

While there’s no shortage of choices available for working in Malaysia, teaching English is one of the most common forms of employment for backpackers. You will need a work permit for Malaysia , however.

A Temporary Employment Pass is the standard work visa in Malaysia unless certain extenuating circumstances apply (like you work in a highly-technical and highly-payed field). These passes last up to two years and are pretty easy to obtain provided you jump through the require bureaucratical hoops.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Malaysia

While Southeast Asia as a whole is a prime English teaching destination, Malaysia is one of the hottest candidates among those. Many travellers stop for a contract’s period working as an English teacher in Malaysia .

Given Malaysia’s familiarity with both tourists and expats, as well as their stronger economy and tighter infrastructure, it’s a perfect destination for those with TEFL degrees looking to teach English abroad . You can pitch yourself up in a nice pad for 6-12 months, enjoy the local cuisine, and have a completely refreshed bank account by the time you’re ready to hit the road again!

Now, you will need the aforementioned work permit for this alongside a potential sponsorship/employer. The last thing you’ll need is a TEFL certificate.

TEFL certificates open up a lot of doors for travellers. With one under your belt, you’ll find opportunities to work on the road (and, thus, extend your travels) most places in the world!

There are a lot of choices for acquiring a TEFL degree, however, I recommend running the course through MyTEFL . Not only are they a highly reputable and effective company, but Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount (using the code PACK50)! Not a bad deal at all considering that the payoff is a life of indefinite travel.

Volunteer in Malaysia

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Malaysia which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

While parts of Malaysia are greatly developed, there are still plenty of opportunities for backpackers to offer up some time and skills in other, more rural areas. Most of the gigs you’ll find are ‘bread and board’ opportunities working in hospitality, which are a great way to give back to the local community. English teaching and conservation work are other popular options. A tourist visa is enough for volunteering in Malaysia, although longer stays may require a ‘special visit visa’. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Malaysia, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

There are some amazing options for street food in Malaysia. Here are some must try foods in Malaysia:

• Banana Leaf Rice: This is white rice served on a banana leaf with an assortment of vegetables, curried meat or fish, pickles, and the super addictive papadum (look like giant, round, flat crisps)!
• Nasi Dagang: Rice steamed in coconut milk, fish curry and extra ingredients such as fried shaved coconut, solok lada, hard-boiled eggs, and vegetable pickles.
• Hokkien mee: Thick yellow noodles braised in thick dark soy sauce with pork, squid, fish-cake and cabbage as the main ingredients.
• Satay: Meats on sticks over a BBQ – simple, scrumptious!

If you’re interested in learning the cuisine, then check out this site for awesome deals on Malaysian cooking classes !

Malaysians are incredibly friendly people; they have grown up in one of the biggest melting pots of cultures I have come across. They are so interested in your story and will often ask you a lot of questions. They love to take pictures with the people they meet. This even happened to me at the border crossing.

If you don’t want your picture taken, just politely decline, though they may take a sneaky one anyway. It is not uncommon for Malaysians to invite you for tea or for dinner. It is up to you if you want to accept this offer, but I mean, why wouldn’t you?

I have yet to meet an unfriendly Malaysian and found everyone to be extremely respectful. If nothing else, you will not be without friends when backpacking in Malaysia.

Useful Travel Phrases for Malaysia

It always helps to learn new languages and pieces of the local language when you travel to a foreign country! Below are my favourite Malaysia travel phrases:

• Hi Friend!  – Hi!
• Kwan apa khabar?  – How are you?
• Sangat bagus. – Very good.
• Siapa nama anda? – What’s your name?
• Nama saya … – My name is….
• Selamat malam  – Goodnight
• Selamat tinggal  – Goodbye
• Berapa harganya ini? – How much is this?
• Di mana tandas? – Where’s the toilet?
• No plastic bag – Tiada beg plastik
• No straw please – Tidak ada jerami sila
• No plastic cutlery please – Tidak plastik alat makan sila
• Terima kasih – Thank you
• Tolong – Please
• Saya dari … – I’m from ….
• Makan! Makan!  – Eat! Eat!
• Saya tidak faham – I don’t understand

Books to Read About Malaysia

Backpacking Malaysia will be made even more incredible with background knowledge. To truly get an idea of the incredible range of cultures, religions, and traditions in Malaysia, I highly recommend reading some of these books set in Malaysia before your travels.

• Floating on a Malayan Breeze: Travels in Malaysia and Singapore – A great insight into how Malaysian culture developed and grew after splitting with Singapore and how different the two places are.
• A Town Like Alice –  The story of Jean Paget, a young Englishwoman who becomes romantically interested in a fellow prisoner of World War II in Malaya, and after liberation emigrates to Australia to be with him, where she attempts to generate economic prosperity in a small community – to turn it into “a town like Alice”.
• Stranger in the Forest: On Foot Across Borneo – If this doesn’t convince you to go and explore the wild side of Borneo, I don’t know what will.
• Malaysia – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture – I don’t normally take guide books with me, but this was a good read before I left.
• The Harmony Silk Factory – A fantastic read comparing different cultures and how they lived and worked together. One of my favourites!

I love reading before taking my next trip. Actually, I just love to read in general. Check out more of my favourite books to read on the road for some lazy hammock day inspiration!

A Brief History of Malaysia

For many centuries, the British colonized Malaysia.

On December 8, 1941, the Japanese invaded the Malay Peninsula and they quickly overran it, but after WWII the Japanese were overrun.

As they were gaining independence, there was tension between Malays and non-Malays. It culminated in violence after an election in May 1969. The two sides came to violence and the government declared a state of emergency and parliament was suspended.

The Malaysian government then adopted a new, successful economic policy. It was remarkably successful.

From the 1970s on, Malaysia changed from being a poor, agricultural country to a rich, industrial one. The standard of living of the Malaysian people rose dramatically and Malaysia remains more prosperous than most Southeast Asian countries today.

There are a lot of incredible reasons to travel Malaysia . It’s a beautiful country filled with many beautiful people.  Enjoy it!

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Scuba Diving in Malaysia

Malaysia has plenty of great scuba diving options. The most famous sites, however, are located on  Sipadan Island  and Mabul Island . 

Sipadan is by far the best place to enjoy scuba diving; it is also not that easy to actually dive at because of the restricting rules that are in place (i.e., daily permits). Mabul is known worldwide for its amazing muck diving conditions.

Scuba Dive Malaysia on a Liveaboard Trip

So you have some diving experience under your belt and you want to get to know some of Malaysia’s best dive sites intimately?

Then consider joining a liveaboard scuba diving trip in Malaysia !

There is no better way to experience remote, super interesting dive sites than on a liveaboard trip. You get what you pay for: excellent food, days of diving, and comfortable accommodation.

If you have the burning desire to do heaps of scuba diving in awesome locations, then a liveaboard diving trip somewhere amazing may be just the thing for you.

Trekking in Malaysia

Adventurists and avid trekkers will want to head to Borneo. There are several beautiful national parks, and ample opportunities to hike through jungles, over mountains, and through remote villages. If you’re a fan of the trail, be sure to plan a hiking adventure in Malaysia .

Just be good to Malaysia.

Writing your name in black marker on temples, chugging beer while shirtless, swearing loudly, and visiting unethical animal attractions ? You, Sir, are a twat.

Luckily, most backpackers don’t fall into this category but, when you’re out and about and have had a few too many drinks, it can be easy to embarrass yourself.  It’s easy to get carried away in Southeast Asia: everything is so damn cheap and so much fun.

Look up ethical animal sanctuaries , and learn more about the Palm Oil Plantation/deforestation crisis.

If you’re not into seeing the temples, no worries , but don’t be disrespectful, inappropriate, or deface them – certainly, do not try to wander in shirtless. Malaysia is predominantly Muslim, so dress conservatively when you are not on a beach.

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia. Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of three crashes in South East Asia over the last ten years. On the one occasion, when I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to the hospital. It was an expensive mistake.

The local people are sick of scraping foreigners off the road and, trust me, you don’t look cool for not wearing a helmet.

Humans are humans; treat people you meet along the way with the same respect you would show your friends and family back home. You are not superior to anyone including the girls/guys walking the streets.

Go to Asia and have the time of your life, do the things you’ve dreamed of, but be respectful along the way. Travelling the world makes you an ambassador for your country , which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your country…

All in all, just be cool, homie. Malaysia is a beautiful place filled with a lot of beautiful people. And now, you have everything you need to know to hit the road and begin backpacking Malaysia. So get out there already!

Got more to add to the guide? Let me know in the comments below! We’re always on the hunt for the tastiest new updates on our favourite countries.

And above all, have a blast, amigos. Eat ’til you drop, then eat some more!

• Where to stay in Malaysia
• Backpacking Southeast Asia Travel Guide
• Backpacking Indonesia
• Backpacking Thailand
• Backpacking Vietnam Travel Guide
• Backpacking Cambodia

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nic Hilditch-Short

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25 Comments

Super Great info. thanks for this. Malaysia is one of my Favorite destinations. I have only been to peninsular malaysia but hoping to hit up Borneo areas as well and will certainly check back when I do.

I love reading such long and detailed posts about any place or a country. They instantly ignite the wanderlust within. I have only been to KL in Malaysia. But now I feel like exploring the country thoroughly!

Wow, very informative. Do you think traveling Malaysia can be a good choice for someone who is 5months pregnant?

So in love with Malaysia too! Always been mesmerized by the beaches and their rich culture. Planning to come back next year. Enjoyed reading your post. Kudos!

Wow this is an excellent trip to Malaysia…many and many i can observe the places Borneo,Epic Road Trip and the lights beauty its just stunning thanks for the blog!

Good resource! I will admit I have never really thought about Malaysia too much, but after reading your blog will definitely consider this in my bucket list.

I love Malaysia Chinese foods! I also love travel in Malaysia! When i first travel Malaysia i have no idea. I spend a lot of my for travel! But now i know everything! Awesome post! I got Malaysia visa from Keymalaysia.com website! Thanks, dear for the awesome content!

Try Kuching in Sarawak, for something different in Malaysia. Thanks for the pics they brought back happy memories of our visits. My wife and I have been there a number of times and we love the place.

Will thank you for informing us of Malasia and their beautiful culture. I would really love to see it, especially the tea plantations.

Hi Will, I’m a Malaysian and I want to correct you on a mistake. Under the section “Backpacking Melaka”, the picture describing [Cool art on the streets of Melaka] is actually located in Georgetown, Penang but not Melaka. I love reading your posts here. I’m planning to backpacking in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in the upcoming June. Thank you for all the tips you shared.

Dating women in a theocracy? I had no luck whatsoever…

You can date women in any country if you act respectfully and throw down some charm, I met my wife in Iran.

Absolutely fantastic post! Thanks

Great guide but this should be a guide on travelling in West Malaysia only. Sabah and Sarawak are part of Malaysia too but I guess you didn’t go there.

Hi, how easy is it to get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang? Do buses/trains run quite regularly? Same with to Langkawi, is there a boat from penang to Langkawi and is there quite regular travel from Langkawi back to KL.. Thanks

It’s actually quite easy to travel from KL to Penang by bus. You can take a bus from Pudu Sentral (around RM30 per person). The bus terminal operate 24 hours.You can get a bus each hour. A boat from Penang to Langkawi is approx RM60 per person. You may want to consider AirAsia as another alternative because sometimes they sell tickets cheaper than the ferry. Hope this help. We are able to pick you up at the airport and offer you affordable accomodation. Do contact me and i will bring you around. =)

Inbox us anytime. https://www.facebook.com/BrogaHomestay/

Great post, was super helpful in our trip around Malaysia! I also recommend checking out Borneo, there is some world-class diving, beaches, hiking and unforgettable encounters with orangutans in the jungle ?

Check out our blog for lots of tips and inspiration: https://bonatravels.com/2017/10/15/destination-guide-malaysia/

Great post! Borneo is my favourite place in malaysia , especially kinabatangan river.

https://www.facebook.com/BrogaHomestay/

Well-made guide, although it really just scratches the surface…nothing on Sarawak/Sabah? Malaysia has a lot of unknown places to discover, especially in the interior. Driving a car, as you suggested, is a good idea. I like Highway 76 a lot, leaving North of Kuala Kangsar to gerik, passing via lenggong, it goes through some really nice scenery and towns worth exploring. And about Penang… check out my site.

I love peninsular Malaysia too but backpacking Sarawak is just about the most fun you can have in SE Asia

Hi there, i have rooms for backpacker located near to tourist attraction at Broga Hill, Gunung Tok Wan & Sek Na Tu temple. This area suitable for hikers, camping & backpackers. How can i list my room in your website? Looking forward for your reply. Thank you

Ah next time you should go to Tioman! Amazingly clear water with beautiful coral and colourful fish.

I planned on going to Malaysia for about a week and ended up staying for four. Wonderful place.

Such a detailed information about Malaysia! I wish this will be very helpful for all the people who are looking forward to plan their next trip to Malaysia. All they need to do is to read this blog post!

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45 Best Malaysian Travel Blogs and Websites

• Malaysia Truly Asia
• Malaysia Travel, Guide to Hidden Tourism Gems
• Malaysia Asia
• Places and Foods | Malaysia Food and Travel Blog
• Malaysian Traveller
• Malaysia Travel Guide / Panduan Perjalanan - Youtube
• Faizal Fredley
• Travel blogger Wang Hongliang
• 乐飞翎 ♥ LUVFEELIN
• The Island Drum - Travel & Lifestyle
• Melancong.my
• Travel Stylus
• The Penangite | A Travel & Lifestyle Blog Made in Penang
• Explore Malaysia Blog
• Chasing The Sun Travel Blog
• Zyzool Mira Travel
• storiesfromtheeast.com
• Happy Go KL
• The Lone Escape
• Lost Voyager | Travel Foodie Malaysia
• She Walks the World
• SarawakTravel STB - YouTube
• Expedia Malaysia Travel Blog - Chit-Chat Cuti-Cuti
• MYTRAVELLICIOUS
• P O J I E G R A P H Y
• Tourism Malaysia
• Mei Mei Chu | Discovering the wonders of wander
• The Tiny Wanderer | Travel Stories From The Road
• Cuti.my | Hotel & Tour Packages in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia
• Kaki Jalans
• Runaway Bella » Travel Blog Malaysia
• KL Expat Malaysia - Top Expatriate News, Events & Blog
• Kaki Berangan : Jom Travel!
• MySabah.com - Photos, videos and blog of Sabah, Malaysia Borneo
• e-borneo.com - Travel Borneo Blog
• CW's Food & Travel
• Sri Sutra Travel Blog - Top Travel Agency In Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia
• Catchingtravels
• Phirlo | Travel Tales & Reviews
• FlyKLIA.com | Travel to Malaysia with FlyKLIA

Malaysia Travel Bloggers

• Malaysia Travel Newsletter

Malaysia Travel Blogs

Here are 45 Best Malaysia Travel Blogs you should follow in 2024

1. Malaysia Truly Asia

2. Malaysia Travel, Guide to Hidden Tourism Gems

3. Malaysia Asia

4. Places and Foods | Malaysia Food and Travel Blog

5. Malaysian Traveller

6. Malaysia Travel Guide / Panduan Perjalanan - Youtube

7. Faizal Fredley

8. Travel blogger Wang Hongliang

9. 乐飞翎 ♥ LUVFEELIN

10. The Island Drum - Travel & Lifestyle

11. Melancong.my

12. BISHDREAM

13. Sugoi Days

14. Travel Stylus

15. The Penangite | A Travel & Lifestyle Blog Made in Penang

16. Explore Malaysia Blog

17. Chasing The Sun Travel Blog

18. Zyzool Mira Travel

19. storiesfromtheeast.com

20. Happy Go KL

21. The Lone Escape

22. Lost Voyager | Travel Foodie Malaysia

23. She Walks the World

24. SarawakTravel STB - YouTube

25. Expedia Malaysia Travel Blog - Chit-Chat Cuti-Cuti

26. MYTRAVELLICIOUS

27. P O J I E G R A P H Y

28. Lyf&Spice

29. Tourism Malaysia

30. Mei Mei Chu | Discovering the wonders of wander

31. The Tiny Wanderer | Travel Stories From The Road

32. Cuti.my | Hotel & Tour Packages in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia

33. Kaki Jalans

34. Runaway Bella » Travel Blog Malaysia

35. KL Expat Malaysia - Top Expatriate News, Events & Blog

36. Kaki Berangan : Jom Travel!

37. MySabah.com - Photos, videos and blog of Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

38. e-borneo.com - Travel Borneo Blog

39. CW's Food & Travel

40. Sri Sutra Travel Blog - Top Travel Agency In Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia

41. Catchingtravels

42. Phirlo | Travel Tales & Reviews

43. FlyKLIA.com | Travel to Malaysia with FlyKLIA

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5 Malaysian Travel Bloggers You Must Follow

I love travel blogs mainly because they’re inspiring and I always feel more motivated to pack my bags and book tickets after reading others’ travel experiences, tips, and tricks. Since there are thousands of travel blogs available, we’ve done the footwork for you and compiled a list of 5 Muslim-friendly Malaysian travel blogs that we love and that have influenced our travels.

If you need some inspiration to plan your trip, want to scroll through beautiful travel pictures or learn more about travelling as a Muslim – check out these 5 awesome  Malaysians who travel the world!

1.  Fatin Days

Fatin’s blog is full aesthetically pleasing travel pictures that will leave you with a stroke of wanderlust. Studying in Germany, she makes full use of her time abroad to wander around Europe, she has so far travelled to Austria, France, and Switzerland.

Being a Muslim in a foreign country herself, Fatin knows exactly what a Muslim traveller needs when they’re travelling – we’re talking about delicious halal food and comfortable praying space. She shares amazing stop-over itineraries and awesome travel pictures!

If we have to pick favourites from her Muslim girl blog , our favourite post of Fatin has to be One day Zurich itinerary . It’s complete with halal food recommendations and places where you can stop to pray (plus Zurich has been on my travel bucket list since forever!).

Fatin writes about:

• Muslim friendly itineraries of the places she’s visited
• Picture posts of European countries
• Tips for Muslim students studying in Germany

Although it is a fairly new halal blog , Fatin’s has already shared many travel stories and creative visual itineraries in which we hope to see more of in the future.

2.  That So Farah

Founder of ThatsoFarah and award-winning travel write r Farah Nadiah started her travel blog in January 2012. You’ll find her on top of scenic mountains, wandering off-beaten paths and luscious green jungles, and exploring unique cultures and making friends with locals of the places she visited.

As Farah currently lives in Malaysia, her travel blog is filled with itineraries, travel guides, and her favourite highlights of each state in Malaysia such as must-visit attractions in each city for tourists travelling to Malaysia. She shared her itineraries at Bario and Mabul in which could be used as a useful guide.

In addition, Farah also provides awesome tips and tricks for travellers on how to find budget-friendly hotels, affordable stores that sell souvenirs such as traditional batik and jewellery, and through her adventure blog, she hopes to spread awareness on ecotourism and the importance of conserving nature so that our future generation would be able to enjoy beautiful nature.

If you’re a hiker and plan to travel to Borneo, we recommend that you check out Farah’s post on her experience hiking Mulu mountain . Having also visited Lipat Sanggul Mountain in Terengganu, Mount Semeru in Indonesia, and Mount Rinjani , Indonesia just to name few, Fatin has many posts dedicated her hiking experiences.

Farah writes about:

• Malaysia, Southeast Asia and Europe itineraries
• Hiking in Malaysia and abroad, and other outdoor activities
• Hotel reviews

3.  Travel Chameleon

Known as one of the best travel Muslim bloggers in Malaysia, Yafieda Jamil will inspire your inner travel spirit. She believes that the best way to explore another country is to adapt to the culture as it will help you to understand the locals better.

Nomad since at an early age, Yafieda admitted at first that she found it hard to adjust to new cultures due to language barriers and traditions, however, thanks to her international friends, she managed to fit in just fine. Since then, she has been travelling nonstop becoming a part of different cultures in the countries she visited in which she inspires people to travel through her experiences.

Moreover having 9 to 5 job, Yafieda shows that it is possible to make time for travel with a hectic schedule. She mostly travels on weekends by taking short road trips to neighbouring areas. Currently living in Cambodia, Yafieda also shares her volunteer work such as feed the homeless and plant a tree while travelling to help make small changes to the world.

Despite not living in Malaysia, Yafieda’s travel blog is packed with, travel guides, hidden gems in Malaysia, food, road trips and so much more. It is evident from the number of articles dedicated to Malaysia that Yafieda is resourceful as she knows the country like no other!

On her female solo travel blog , I would suggest you read her first Khmer wedding experience . It’s always exciting to try something you never did before like attending a wedding of a different culture and mingling with the locals. In this post, Yafieda shows that it is always fun to try new things.

Yafieda writes about:

• Hotel and food reviews
• Itineraries such as UNESCO site hunt
• Personal travel stories as an expat trying to adapt to new cultures

4. Pojiegraphy

A digital writer for Gaya Travel Magazine , Mohd Shahril Fawzy admits he enjoys writing about his travel experiences in both English and Bahasa articles. What makes Mohd different from rest of the bloggers is that he writes and shares his travel experiences in Bahasa making it easier for Malaysians not only feel connected to him but also relate and become inspired to travel the world.

In his travel blog, you can find many articles on his experiences in Malaysia, Mohd provides interesting things for locals to do in different cities such as experiencing hot springs in Sungkai, and playing with elephants in Terengganu.   

Besides writing travel articles, Mohd has a talent in photography and this is shown on his blog in which he posts cool Instagram-Mable pictures of the places he’s visited such as Wales, Cumbria, Vivian Quarry. It is evident in his photographs that he searches for the places that depict the different cultures.

In his travel blog, Mohd is also well-known for sharing some personal stories of his travel experience like his first zip lining experience .

Mohd writes about:

• Halal eateries
• Travel itineraries
• Blogging techniques
• Photography hacks

5.  Runaway Bell

Bella caught an incurable disease of wanderlust when she travelled with a group of friends years ago. Having travelled to Malaysia and other Asian countries such as Indonesia, China, and Singapore. Bella shares her travel stories and tips with her rising followers.

Moreover, what draws us to Bella is the intricate details of the places she has travelled to such as her visit to the strawberry leisure farm in Genting Highland. She also shows appreciation in learning about different cultures through beautiful pictures on every post. She provides detailed information on the attractions such as price, contacts, special rates and opening times.

Since the winter Olympics are upcoming in next year in Pyeongchang, Bella has dedicated an entire section of her blog with information about this anticipated event. She has been creating guides and tourism resources for Muslim travellers who want to visit South Korea next year for the prestigious event.

Bella writes about:

• Interesting places in Malaysia
• Exotic cultural dishes
• Hotels reviews
• Travel itineraries around Asia

These 5 Malaysian travel bloggers will surely influence you to create your own travel plans, whilst teaching you about different traditions and cultures. These 5 blogs will help you with everything you need to know about planning a trip, gaining new experiences and exploring hidden gems.

Which are your favourite Malaysian travel bloggers?

Check out these 5 inspiring Muslim-Friendly travel bloggers that will awaken your inner travel spirit. Also, use these 15 must have Malaysia Travel Apps to plan your trip for the best places in Malaysia.

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US embassy reaffirms that Malaysia is still safe to travel

Friday, 26 Apr 2024

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PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is still safe to travel, affirms the US embassy to Malaysia, negating US academic Bruce Gilley’s claim that it is not.

“There is no change to the US travel advisory, which remains at Level 1, the lowest level out of four,” it said in a statement.

According to the United States Bureau of Consular Affairs, Level 1 is the lowest advisory level for safety and security, between Levels 1 to 4, and 4 being “do not travel”.

At Level 1, travellers are to exercise normal precautions in the country, it said.

Checks by The Star on the US State Department’s website showed that Malaysia has been on Level 1 since its last update on July 24, 2023. Additionally, its country information on Malaysia says that the countries have healthy bilateral ties.

“Economic ties are robust, and there is a long history of people-to-people exchanges. Malaysia has a diverse democracy and is an important partner in US engagement with South-East Asia,” it said.

Earlier this week, US academician Bruce Gilley claimed in a post on X that Malaysia is not safe to travel to.

He said on the social media platform that he had left Malaysia due to safety concerns caused by an “Islamo-fascist mob whipped up by the government there”.

Recently, Universiti Malaya (UM) had invited Gilley to speak, which caused controversy.

Gilley purportedly claimed that Malaysia had pushed for a “second holocaust against the Jewish people” during his talk, and downplayed Malaysia’s ties with the United States.

After the cancellation of all events involving Gilley by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, the academician has since returned to America.

Further sparking outrage, he posted that he will not accept reimbursement for his travels from UM, choosing instead to ask the public to fund his costs via an online platform.

“(Gilley’s) social media post on the safety of travelling in Malaysia is too much. It is irresponsible and can cause anger among all Malaysians,” UM said in a statement.

Tags / Keywords: US embassy , Bruce Gilley , Israel , UM , University Malaya , travel advisory

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