must visit malaysia

Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

Scams to Avoid

Visiting Kuala Lumpur

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation Guide

Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

simonlong / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

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

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

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

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

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

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Malaysia

25 Best Things to Do in Malaysia

Malaysia is located in the Malay Peninsula and stretches to parts of Borneo where it shares a border with neighboring Indonesia , and as such visitors should not be confused by the terms Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which comprises Sarawak and Sabah (also known as Malaysian Borneo).

With a total landmass of over 300,000 square kilometers, Malaysia is known for its capital city of Kuala Lumpur , a powerhouse financial and business hub in South East Asia, as well as its beautiful beaches, secluded islands, elevated hill stations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There is also a strong commitment to diversity here, and as well as Malays and indigenous groups, there is also a sizeable Chinese and Indian population in Malaysia which is reflected in the architecture and cultural relics found in country. Visitors here can choose from a wide variety of activities from hiking, to diving, to shopping or sampling the local food. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Malaysia .

1. Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur

One of the most iconic sights in the world, the PETRONAS Towers, also known as the PETRONAS Twin Towers due to the fact that they come in a pair, are located in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur and are the tallest twin towers in the world. The architecture is postmodern in style and also features motifs found in Islamic art to represent the Muslim majority in Malaysia. The main attraction is the sky walk over the sky bridge that joins them together and visitors can admire the views that stretch across Kuala Lumpur and KLCC Park at the base of the towers.

Fast entry tickets : Petronas Towers: Skip-the-Line Ticket with Hotel Delivery

2. Sunbathe on Langkawi

If you fancy getting out of the city then head to Langkawi Island, actually an archipelago of over a hundred islands in the Andaman Sea, only two of which are inhabited and of which Langkawi is the largest with a population of over 60,000 inhabitants. Langkawi Island is popular with both backpackers and honeymooners alike and has something to suit all budgets. The island is also has duty-free status so visitors can stock up on souvenir items cheaply.

Book online : Langkawi: Mangrove Kilim UNESCO Geopark & Cave Tour

3. Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar is a staple food in Malaysia and actually means ‘mixed rice’, as customers are given a plate with rice over which they can choose a variety of toppings and sauces. Nasi Kandar is based on Tamil dishes due to the high number of South Indian immigrants and the flavors reflect this with an emphasis on curry powder and chili. Common Nasi Kandar dishes include chicken, fish, or seafood such as prawns or squid in curry sauce as well as vegetables like okra and cabbage cooked in mustard seeds.

4. Get out of town at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is actually a collection of five islands that are found off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. The park is accessible by ferry and some of the islands such as Sulug Island are almost untouched, while others such as Gaya Island are busier and more crowded. Common pursuits on the islands include hiking and trekking, as well as swimming and scuba diving opportunities.

5. Enjoy the culture in Malacca

Malacca or Melaka is also known as ‘The Historic State’ and lies next to the Malacca Strait from which it gets its name. The state is said to have the most interesting architecture in all of Malaysia as it was formerly colonized by the Portuguese and features a number of red lacquer buildings from the period such as Christ Church. Malacca also has a high concentration of museums, galleries, and places of historic interest for visitors to explore.

6. Meander around Penang

Penang is an island off the west coast of Malaysia that has Georgetown as its capital, named after British king, King George. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Penang has a focus on conservation and preservation and visitors can experience this at one of the many famous hotels in Penang, such as the E&O established by Stamford Raffles who also founded the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Penang is also famous for its Tropical Spice Garden that showcases the best of the region’s local flora and fauna such as the Torch Ginger, a plant used in many traditional Malay dishes.

7. Go trekking in Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park is located in the state of Pahang as has several claims to fame that attract a steady stream of visitors. One of these is that this is the largest national park in peninsular Malaysia, as well as the fact that the park features the longest rope walkway in the world. The park also has some serious treks, as long as 100km round trip, as well as more gentle hikes for beginners. There is a wide array of wildlife and plant life in the park for nature lovers and the area is even home to an indigenous tribe named the Orang Asli or Original People, said to be the first inhabitants of Malaysia.

Available tour: Full-Day Group Tour to Taman Negara

8. Explore the culture in Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu is to be found on the west coast of Malaysia in the state of Kelantan and is an interesting change of pace and atmosphere to the east coast and many visitors to Malaysia fail to visit this city, perhaps due to its reputation as a more conservative region than much of the rest of the country. Standards of dress and comportment are stricter in Kota Bharu, however, there are a wide variety of mosques and other religious sites to visit such as the old royal palaces which are still the home of the current Sultan of Kelantan.

• 9.  Get away to the Genting Highlands

The Genting Highlands, also dubbed Resorts World Genting is a resort located in the Titiwangsa Mountains and sits at an elevation of over 5,000 feet. The resort is a popular destination with local visitors and has a wide range of attractions to enjoy. These include several different theme parks, bars, restaurants and nightclubs, as well as a cable car attraction known as the Genting Skyway which previously held the title of the world’s fastest and South East Asia’s longest gondola lift. Due to its location, they are also several fruit and vegetable farms for visitors to explore and pick fresh produce.

Suggested tour : Genting Highlands and Batu Caves Day Trip

10. Observe the orang utans in Sepilok

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah, East Malaysia, is found outside of the city of Sandakan and was the first orang utan rehabilitation centre of its kind in the world when it opened in the 1960s. The aim of the centre is to rescue orphaned orang utans who have been left to fend for themselves due to illegal poaching and logging, or who have been found being kept as pets (which is illegal in Malaysia), and administer healthcare and training to the mammals so that they are able to reintegrate and survive in the wild. Once they are able to do so they are released. Visitors can observe the orang utans in the centre and tours are aimed to coincide with feeding times when the animals are usually present on the feeding platforms.

11. Relax in Kuching

The city of Kuching in Sarawak in East Malaysia was actually named after a miscommunication between James Brooke who discovered the region, and the local indigenous population, who, when asked the name of the ground that the city stood on thought he was pointing to a stray cat. The name stuck, and the area is located on the island of Borneo that shares a border with Indonesia. Kuching is set alongside the Sarawak River and is often said to have a calm and relaxed feel to it and tours along the river are a common pursuit for visitors. There are also many examples of colonial architecture such as Fort Magherita and an abundance of cat statues that celebrate the city’s namesake.

12. Dive in at the Perhentian Islands

Actually a group of islands in the state of Terengganu, the Perhentians lie close to the coast of Thailand. 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. Key attractions in the Perhentians are the pristine beaches and water and scuba diving is considered a favorite activity in these parts. At night dine on freshly caught fish cooked over coconut husks on the beach.

13. Climb Mount Kinabalu

The highest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu sits in the Crocker mountain range and lies within Kinabalu Park which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Kinabalu has a host of biodiversity including many types of flora, fauna, and fungi. The trek to the top of Mount Kinabalu is strenuous and not recommended to inexperienced hikers and due to the advanced elevation there is a risk of altitude sickness. All hikers must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times and there are two different routes to choose from although these intersect towards the summit. The hike can be undertaken by experienced climber in one day although many choose to stay overnight as there is accommodation available en route.

14. Take to the skies at the Langkawi Cable Car

Take off from the ‘oriental village’ at Teluk Burau and rise to the majestic heights of Mount Machingchang where you will also find the Langkawi Sky Bridge. The journey by cable car takes around fifteen minutes and offers visitors panoramic views of the island and on a clear day you can every see all the way to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.

15. Ascend Maxwell Hill in Taiping

A less well known spot that has the double claim to fame of having the only Chinese name in Malaysia and being the wettest city in the country, Taiping is located outside of Penang in Perak State. This second statistic is the more important one as it means that the local fauna is lush and fertile and some of the trees found in the Taiping Lake Gardens are over a hundred years old. There is also a hill station located at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet named Maxwell Hill that provides visitors with trekking and camping opportunities, and jeep rides to the station are a much loved attraction with locals and tourists.

16. Venture to the Lost World of Tambun

The ‘Lost World of Tambun’ in Ipoh is actually not an archeological wonder but rather a theme park and resort and is said to be one of the city’s premier attractions. The park features several ‘lost world’ rides and discovery adventures and also has a range of hotels and a large spa offering a variety of treatments for tired would-be archeologists. There is also a water park, a zoo, and an aquarium on site.

17. Wander through China Town in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia, in addition to Malay and Indian nationals, has a large Chinese population and as such China Town has developed as a predominantly ethnically Chinese area of the city. Essentially located in and around Petaling Street, the area features a market, Chinese food options, and Chinese cultural attractions such as temples.

18. Shop and eat at Gurney Drive

Gurney Drive in Penang is a seafront promenade that overlooks a series of beaches including North Beach. The area is well known at night when dozens of local food sellers set up in the area and visitors can buy local delicacies and snacks. If you prefer to do some shopping then head to Gurney Plaza. This large shopping mall has a mix of high end shops, restaurants, and smaller Malaysian outlets for visitors to stock up on souvenirs.

19. Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque

Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s National Mosque is a sight to behold and can accommodate 15,000 worshippers at any given time. Built in 1965, the mosque follows principles of Islamic architecture and has as a roof in the shape of a sixteen point star. There is also a strong emphasis on water features such as fountains and reflective pools throughout the mosque complex and visitors can tour the mosque but must wear appropriate dress which is provided to do so.

Available tour : Private Batu Cave, National Mosque & Religious Tour w/ Lunch

20. Seek out cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands actually refers to a hill station located in Pahang state, and was discovered in the 19th century by Sir William Cameron who lent his name to the area. Many local visitors flock to the area as the elevation of the hill station provides cool weather in which to enjoy outdoor activities such as tea and coffee plantation tours and fruit picking at one of the many different fruit farms. The highlands are also famous for their traditional English cream teas with fresh strawberries picked locally.

Book online: Cameron Highlands Private Day Tour

21. Go climbing in the Batu Caves

To explore the Batu Caves head outside of Kuala Lumpur to the region of Selangor and marvel at these limestone cliffs that are studded with caves and carved cave temples. The caves and temples are Hindu shrines and as such are a site of pilgrimage for the many Tamil residents of Malaysia. Aside from visiting the caves to worship, travelers can also experience the local flora and fauna including wild monkeys that inhabit the area as well as bats that dwell in the caves. For the more adventurous visitors, there are also rock climbing opportunities with over 160 climbing routes in the area.

Recommended tour : Batu Caves Half-Day Tour

22. Get back to nature at Gunung Mulu National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gunung Mulu National Park is located near the town of Miri in Sarawak, East Malaysia, and is famous primarily for its caves and karsts formations (made from dissolved rocks such as limestone). The park takes its name from Mount Mulu which is the second largest mountain in Sarawak and visitors can explore the caves, the rainforest, and enjoy hiking and trekking opportunities.

23. Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Located in the town of Johor Bahru, on the border between Malaysia and Singapore, Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple is set in an area of rapid development and can be found nestled between several skyscrapers. The temple is thought to be around 130 years old although no clear records exist, and features several important historical relics such as plaques and a large bronze bell. The temple is also famous for hosting five important Chinese deities and visitors can explore the area and these important Chinese figures.

24. Head to Tioman Island

If you want to get out of the city then head to Tioman Island located in Pahang state. There are eight villages on the island and much of it is still covered with lush rainforest and visitors can go trekking from one side of the island to the other in a day. There are also pristine coral reefs for those who like diving to enjoy and several resorts and hotels on the island. Like Langkawi, Tioman also has duty-free status.

25. Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is an area of Kuala Lumpur known for its nightlife, bar, clubs, restaurants, and hotels. The area extends over several streets but the central hub is said to be Jalan P. Ramlee where visitors can choose from a wide variety of venues to drink and party into the wee small hours. The area also includes a large shaping center for those looking for some retail therapy before a night on the town.

25 Best Things to Do in Malaysia:

• Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur
• Sunbathe on Langkawi
• Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar
• Get out of town at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
• Enjoy the culture in Malacca
• Meander around Penang
• Go trekking in Taman Negara National Park
• Explore the culture in Kota Bharu
• Observe the orang utans in Sepilok
• Relax in Kuching
• Dive in at the Perhentian Islands
• Climb Mount Kinabalu
• Take to the skies at the Langkawi Cable Car
• Ascend Maxwell Hill in Taiping
• Venture to the Lost World of Tambun
• Wander through China Town in Kuala Lumpur
• Shop and eat at Gurney Drive
• Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque
• Seek out cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands
• Go climbing in the Batu Caves
• Get back to nature at Gunung Mulu National Park
• Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple
• Head to Tioman Island
• Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

Dive Into Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 20 Best Things To Do In Malaysia

Enjoy petronas towers views from traders hotel.

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

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

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

Contributed by Allan from Live Less Ordinary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Paula

Read all our Kuala Lumpur guides here.

Splash Around At The Beaches Of Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Karolina from Lazy Travel Blog

Find all our Port Dickson guides here.

Enjoy A Melaka Boat Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to buy a discounted tour from Kuala Lumpur.

Contributed by Julie from A Not So Young Woman Abroad

Click here to find our full guide to Melaka.

Get Back To Nature At Taman Negara National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to buy discounted tour tickets now.

Contributed by Kirsi from Happy Go KL

Have The Most Fun Day Ever At Legoland Malaysia

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

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

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

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

Click here to buy discounted tickets now.

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

Help Sea Turtles On Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Emma from Small footprints, big adventures

Click here to read our full guide to Tioman Island.

Snorkel At Gem Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Alana from Family Bites Travel

Snorkel The Perhentians

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Sarah from A Social Nomad

Find all our guides to the Perhentian Islands here.

Visit The SkyBridge And SkyCab in Langkawi

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Melissa from Thrifty Family Travels

Read our full guides to Langkawi here.

Look For Street Art In Penang

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Ania from The Travelling Twins

Read our full Penang Travel Guide here.

Go On A Habitat Walk On Penang Hill

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to buy tickets now.

Contributed by Kylie from Visiting Dordogne

Read our full guides to Penang here.

Explore The Ipoh Cave Temples

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

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

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

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

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

Learn History With The Archaeological Heritage Of The Lenggong Valley

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Marco from Penang Insider

Take A Boat Ride From Kuala Sepetang

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Chris from More Life In Your Days

Go Diving At Sipadan Island

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Lora from Explore with Lora

See Orangutans At The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Julia from Dive Into Philippines

Visit The City Mosque In Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Corinne from Reflections Enroute

Take A River Tour In Kuching

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

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

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

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

Adults were RM150 and kids were half price at RM75.

Contributed by Bron from Smiths Holiday Road

Try The Local Coffee At A Traditional Kopitiam

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Rachel from Creators of Coffee

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

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

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

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

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

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Must-see attractions in Malaysia

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Around 25km north of Sandakan, and covering 40 sq km of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, this inspiring, world-famous centre welcomes orphaned and…

Blue Mansion

George Town

The most photographed building in George Town, this magnificent 38-room, 220-window mansion was built in the 1880s and rescued from ruin in the 1990s…

Penang National Park

At 23 sq km, this is Malaysia's smallest national park, but it's beach-fringed forests are home to silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, leopard cats and…

Tawau Hills Park

This small reserve has forested hills rising dramatically from the surrounding plain. If getting into the Maliau Basin or Danum Valley feels like too much…

Agop Batu Tulug

This hill, 2km north of the Batuh Putih bridge, features three caves housing the ancestors of local Orang Sungai (People of the River). Because the…

Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas

Although the Petronas Towers are taller, the 421m Menara KL, rising from the crest of Bukit Nanas, offers the best city views. The bulb at the top…

Melaka City

This former town hall and governor's residence dates to the 1650s and is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. It functioned as State…

Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad

This graceful, onion-domed mosque, designed by British architect AB Hubback, borrows Mogul and Moorish styles with its brick-and-plaster banded minarets…

Thean Hou Temple

Lake Gardens, Brickfields & Bangsar

Sitting atop leafy Robson Heights, this vividly decorated multistorey Chinese temple, dedicated to Thean Hou, the heavenly queen, affords wonderful views…

Telaga Tujuh

Pulau Langkawi

The series of freshwater rock pools at Telaga Tujuh, located at the top of a waterfall inland from Pantai Kok, makes a refreshing alternative to splashing…

Tropical Spice Garden

Facing a beautiful white-sand beach on the 101 bus route, this beautifully landscaped oasis preserves 500 species of tropical flora, spread across 200…

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Inhabiting a building that's nearly as impressive as its collection, this museum showcases Islamic decorative arts from around the globe. Scale models of…

Chinese History Museum

Housed in the century-old Chinese Court building, this museum provides an excellent introduction to the nine major Chinese communities – each with its own…

Kellie’s Castle

Steeped in tragic legend, this monument to British eccentricity stands marooned by the highway, 5km east of Batu Gajah. Known as Kellie’s Folly, the…

Just 13km north of Kuala Lumpur rise the iconic Batu Caves, a Malaysian national treasure, Hindu pilgrimage site and wildlife-conservation zone. Behind a…

Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate

Cameron Highlands

If there's time for only one tea-themed experience in the highlands, make it this spectacularly situated plantation, with its own tea interpretation…

Lake Gardens – Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Park

This 70-hectare lush, beautifully landscaped park is most commonly known by its colonial-era moniker: the Lake Gardens (Tasik Perdana in Malay). This is…

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Lovingly restored, this ostentatious, mint-green structure was one of the most stunning private residences in George Town. Every door, wall and archway is…

Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery

This former royal palace, also known as Istana Kota and Istana Hulu, is a showy mash-up of Renaissance, neoclassical and Moorish styles. Completed in 1903…

Kek Lok Si Temple

Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple is a colourful explosion of statues, pagodas and pavilions, cascading down a hillside in Air Itam, around 8km from the…

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

The jetty near Tanjung Rhu is the main departure point for boat trips into the extensive mangrove forests with stunning limestone formations that edge…

Fort Margherita

Built by Charles Brooke in 1879 and named after his wife, Ranee Margaret, this hilltop fortress long protected Kuching against surprise attack by pirates…

Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve

Wooden boardwalks weave among the protruding, twisted tree roots of the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve. The reserve is best known for its fireflies, which…

Sarawak Museum

Closed at the time of writing and scheduled to reopen in mid-2020 after extensive conservation work, the Sarawak Museum was established in 1891 by Charles…

Khoo Kongsi

The most spectacular clanhouse in George Town, Khoo Kongsi is an explosion of colour. Intricate ceramic mosaics of immortals, carp and dragons dance…

Sansheng Gong

One of Malaysia's most intriguing temples, ornate Sansheng Gong was the first in the country dedicated to Guan Gong, sometimes referred to as the god of…

Ramayana Cave

No cave at Batu is more spectacularly embellished than Ramayana Cave, which boasts psychedelic dioramas of the Indian epic 'Ramayana'. Pass the green, 15m…

Old Court House Complex

The Old Court House was built in the late 19th century to serve as the city’s administrative centre. It now houses a cafe and bar, the excellent Ranee…

Sam Poh Tong

First discovered by a monk in 1890, this cavern, 5km south of Ipoh, is now a riot of religious statuary and pagoda tiles. The entrance pavilion is grand…

Panorama Langkawi

The highlight of this family-friendly amusement park is SkyCab, a cable car that whisks visitors to the top of Gunung Machinchang (713m). For an extra RM6…

Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

Kuala Lumpur's oldest Chinese temple (1864) was built on the instructions of Kapitan Yap Ah Loy and is dedicated to Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya, two Chinese…

Chin Swee Caves Temple

Between the golf course and Resorts World, on a forested cliff, stands a temple that's both awe-inspiring and blood-curdling. Chin Swee was completed in…

Darul Hana Bridge

Linking the northern and southern parts of Kuching, the city's spectacular pedestrian bridge (335m) is constructed to resemble the letter 'S' (for Sarawak…

Putra Mosque

An apparition in rosy-pink granite, Masjid Putra has a captivating delicacy of design. Capped by an ornate pink-and-white dome and starring a 116m minaret…

Sibu Heritage Centre

Housed in an airy, circular municipal complex built in 1960, this excellent museum explores the captivating history of Sarawak and Sibu. Panels, rich in…

Kuan Yin Teng

Dedicated to Kuan Yin, goddess of mercy, this temple is the liveliest place of worship in George Town. The current temple was built in the early 19th…

Closed at the time of writing and scheduled to reopen in mid-2020. This museum featured an exhibit called Urang Sarawak, which deftly and succinctly…

Dutch Square

The focal point of the Unesco Heritage zone, this attractive and elegant square is surrounded by Dutch-era buildings that have been painted crimson, shady…

National Visual Arts Gallery

Kuala Lumpur

The artworks on display at the NVAG are worth a trip out of central KL for their inventiveness and sheer scale. In rotating exhibitions by regional…

Pantai Tempurung

Borneo's loveliest beach is a long, almost-pristine stretch of white sand, lapped at by clear waters. The waves are gentle and great for swimming. You…

More destinations you need to see

Best things to do in Malaysia

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-things-to-do-in-malaysia

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 14.03.2023

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

1. The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

12 days  / from 2350 USD

Uniquely Rustic Malaysia

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

7 days  / from 1200 USD

Hidden UNESCO Sites of Malaysia

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

3 days  / from 450 USD

The Cameron Highlands in a Nutshell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Batik painting, Malaysia © Prarinya/Shutterstock

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

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

Find accommodation options to stay in Taman Negara

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

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

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

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

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

Monkeys jumping through the jungle, Malaysia © MicheleB/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

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

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

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

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in George Town:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in George Town

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

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

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

The Rough Guides to Malaysia and related travel guides

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

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

Proboscis monkey, Malaysia © Yusnizam Yusof/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Music instrument, Gamelan, Malaysia © Amirul Syaidi/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Find accommodation options to stay in Melaka

Melaka, Malaysia © COO7/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Find accommodation options to stay in Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

Kinabalu Mountain, Malaysia © Shutterstock

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

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

Limestone Gunung Mulu, Malaysia© Juhku/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Kelabit highlands © Jon Duncan/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Where to stay in Langkawi:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Langkawi

Beach on the Langkawi island, Malaysia © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur © kudla/Shutterstock

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

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

Malaysian curry laksa © Shutterstock

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

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

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

Sipadan island, Malaysia © Marc Witte/Shutterstock

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

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

Longhouse in Sarawak, Malaysia © gualtiero boffi/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Batu Caves entrance © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cable car Langkawi © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

• Nature & Wildlife
• Authentic Experiences
• History Culture Heritage
• Kuala Lumpur
• Inspiration
• See & Do
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Malaysia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Malaysia

• Sports and Outdoor activities in Malaysia
• Culture and Etiquette in Malaysia
• Eating and drinking in Malaysia
• How to get to Malaysia
• Getting around Malaysia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Malaysia
• Shopping tips for Malaysia
• Travel Tips Malaysia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Malaysia

Find even more inspiration for 16 here

Ready to travel and discover malaysia, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Itineraries
• Travel advice

Asia , Malaysia , Travel Guides · July 6, 2019

25 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Malaysia

Planning a Malaysia itinerary and wondering where to go? Fuel your wanderlust with these 25 most beautiful places to visit in Malaysia!

Malaysia is one country that simply has to be on your destination hit-list! Diverse in all senses imaginable, it is a beautiful country full of gorgeous scenery, history, delicious food, and some of the most incredible landmarks in Asia .

But with all the culture to experience, history to uncover, fascinating cities to visit, and gorgeous beaches to kick-back on, choosing where to go in Malaysia can be a tricky task. That’s where this guide comes in! We cover everything from must-go places, like Kuala Lumpur , Georgetown, Ipoh, Melaka, and Sipadan Island to lesser-known gems like Kapas Island, Port Dickson, the gorgeous Perhentian Islands, Danum Valley, and more!

Ready to spend less time planning and more time discovering all of Malaysia’s best bits? Read along to find the very best places to visit in Malaysia!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Before you visit these places in Malaysia

If this is your first visit to Malaysia, it’s important to know that the “Land of Mountains” is huge! The country is divided into two main islands – West and East Malaysia. West Malaysia, also known as Peninsular Malaysia, is probably the most popular side for mainstream tourism. In contrast, East Malaysia is famous for Borneo’s lush jungles full of diverse wildlife, fantastic hikes, and off-the-beaten-path islands.

So, how to decide where to go and what to see in Malaysia? Well, that will ultimately depend on your interests and what you’d like to get out of your Malaysia itinerary. 

However, since we’ve included ALL the best places to visit and different trip suggestions, this Malaysia travel guide can easily be tailored to match your needs, interests, and budget – whether you have 1 week in Malaysia or more!

Before choosing which where to go and what to do, these handy  Malaysian travel tips will also come in handy.

In a rush? Pin The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia for later.

The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia Quick Overview

Malaysia packs the perfect mix of lush jungles, jaw-dropping islands, bustling cities, and charming little towns! All in all, there’s something for everyone in Malaysia!

However, since there is so much to do and see, I reached out to fellow blogging friends to compile this epic list of Best Places to Visit in Malaysia ! Here’s a quick look at which places are covered in this guide:

Peninsular Malaysia :

Kuala Lumpur

Port dickson, johor bahru, tioman island, kapas island, taman negara national park, cameron highlands, perhentian islands, sungai lembing.

West Malaysia :

Sipadan Island

Danum valley, kinabatangan river valley, kota kinabalu.

• Kampung Meritam’s Mud Volcanoes

Mulu National Park

Niah national park.

Without further ado, here are the 25 best places to visit in Malaysia plus all our PRO tips on where to go and what to do to help you plan the perfect Malaysia itinerary.

Places to Visit in Malaysia Peninsular / East Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital hub, Kuala Lumpur, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and colorful architecture. 

The  perfect KL travel itinerary  starts with a visit to the most iconic landmark –  Petronas Twin Towers  –  towering above the city at 451.9m. After getting a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape, drop by the Thean Hou Temple, the National Mosque of Malaysia, and the famed  Batu Caves . 

Central Market is another must-visit spot full of traditional handmade arts and crafts. Nearby, Petaling Street Market’s bustling alleyways also offer the chance to bargain for cheap knockoffs and local souvenirs.

Another great draw to Kuala Lumpur, apart from its scenic streets and loads of places to explore, is that  nature is within easy reach . Some of the best green spaces to explore include the Botanic Gardens and the KL Forest Eco Park, where you can wander through a rainforest on a forest canopy walkway.  Right in the heart of the city!

If it’s delicious food you’re after, KL has a booming street food scene, and one of the easiest ways to sample the city’s eclectic local fare is on a  street food tour .   Alternatively, head straight to one of the bustling street markets, where you’ll find everything from Malay to Chinese and Indian to Western cuisines!

Pro Tips: Since there are so many things to do in KL , spend at least 3-4 days here to get a real feel of what the city has on offer. It’s also good to know that KL has a comprehensive subway system. However, we found taking the Hop On Hop Off bus and Grab Taxi cheap and quick modes of transport. More adventurous travelers looking to explore the area in an entirely unique way, could also consider cycling in Malaysia .

ALSO READ: The Best Layover Cities in Asia

Recommended by Karolina | Lazy Travel Blog

Port Dickson is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. This haven for nature lovers lies just south of  Kuala Lumpur . 

The town has a long coastline dotted with beaches that lead to Tanjung Tuan, one of the country’s biggest wildlife reserves. You will also find a 16th-century lighthouse, a 14th-century Islamic tomb, and megaliths in this beautiful area for a dash of history. To add a bit contemporary flare, there’s also a 3D art gallery that will literally take you to another world.

Port Dickson can be reached from Mainland Malaysia or Singapore . The best way to get there is by car, as it allows the flexibility to explore the area. By taking the Seremban-Port Dickinson Highway (E29), which connects to the North-South Expressway (E2) from Kuala Lumpur, it will take around 1h30 to reach the destination. A drive from the Lion City through the Causeway will take 3 hours and 45 minutes.

The cheaper option is to take the bus to Port Dickson. Hop on a bus to Seremban and there, change buses to Port Dickson. The trip will take around an hour and will set you back RM4, which is less than a US Dollar.

Recommended by Campbell & Alya|Stingy Nomads

The small and cozy town of Malaka is a great place to come for a weekend from bustling Kuala Lumpur. Located just 150km from the Malaysian capital Malaka is easily accessed by bus. It takes about 2 hours, and the ticket costs US$3. The town looks very different from other places in Malaysia with its canals, boats, bridges, colorful houses, and many cafés.

There are many things to do in Malacca like visiting the city’s attractions, wandering around the Malay Village, going on a boat along the canals, enjoying the city view from the Menara Taming tower, and of course, tasting and trying local delicacies at the Night Market on Jonker Street. The main tourist attractions in Malaka are the Dutch square, Kampung Kling mosque, St.Paul’s Church, Maritime Museum of Melaka, Stadhuys, and the Botanical Garden.

You can easily move around on foot, or if you get tired, hire one of the famous trishaws. It’s a local version of a rickshaw with three wheels. Carts are richly decorated with flowers and lights, and riding these at night is an exciting activity. Another option to move around the town is by bike. There are several cycling routes and tours in the city.

The best area to stay in Malaka is at the Malacca River. Here you will find many hostels, hotels, and guesthouses. Some of them are located close to Jonker Street, which guarantees a stay right in the town’s busiest nightlife area. For a quiet holiday, rather choose one of the places on the other side of the river.

Recommended by Noel Cabacungan | Ten Thousand Strangers

Johor Bahru doesn’t really have many unique points of interest that are not in other places in Malaysia. However, the presence of Legoland Malaysia and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town turned Johor Bahru into a popular tourist destination among families, especially those traveling from Singapore.

Johor Bahru is easily accessible from Singapore by private vehicle or public bus.  Crossing the border from Singapore to Malaysia will take less than an hour, including border controls. Because of its proximity, people usually do Johor Bahru as a quick day trip from Singapore. However, I would recommend families to stay in Johor Bahru for at least 3D2N. This will allow you one day for Legoland Resort, another for Legoland Water Park, and a few hours in Puteri Harbor and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town.

Airbnb also has several listings of top quality condominium units, which a family can book for less than US$20 per night. 

How to get to Johor Bahru

To reach Johor Bahru from Singapore, catch a bus right outside the MRT Kranji Station. You can even use your Ezlink card with at least SGD1.39 credit (or pay SGD2 cash to the driver). This way, you won’t need to reserve a ticket online.

If coming from elsewhere in Malaysia, take a local bus to Larkin Bus Terminal. And from there, take Grab Taxi to your chosen accommodation in Johor Bahru.

ALSO READ: Jaw-dropping Instagram Spots in Singapore

Recommended by Emma | Small Footprints, Big Adventures

Tioman Island is a beautiful place to visit in Malaysia. It is relatively unspoiled, with the jungle within it still pristine, and several coral reefs sought for diving and snorkeling. There are also waterfalls and great hiking options within the island. Not to mention, some mangroves that you can kayak through and spot wildlife like monkeys and snakes.

The beachfront of Juara Bay is stunning and not crowded like most other beaches of its quality. The water is calm, and it’s safe for swimming all year round, and there are several dive shops to hire equipment from. Also, there are many excellent local cafes on the beach serving fresh Malay and Western food.

There is accommodation to suit every budget on Pulau Tioman, some even with their own private beach.  Juara Turtle Project  – a sea turtle conservation program is well worth a visit. You can also opt to volunteer with them for a week or more and help with many tasks while meeting other travelers from around the world.

To get to Pulau Tioman, catch one of the daily ferries from Mersing on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It takes two hours to reach Tioman Island and arrives at the main port, Tekek. Plan to stay at least a week to really enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer! By the time you’ve relaxed sufficiently in your hammock, explored the amazing natural wonders, and feasted on heaps of great food, you’ll be struggling to leave Pulau Tioman!

Recommended by Dave | Jones Around the World

Malaysia is home to some truly spectacular islands and beaches, but one of the best hidden gems is Pulau Kapas , more commonly known to tourists as Kapas Island!

Located just a few kilometers off the west coast of Malaysia, nearby to Kuala Terengganu, it’s become a popular destination for weekend trips. While there isn’t actually that much to do there besides go snorkeling right off the beach, enjoy delicious beachside restaurants, and watch beautiful sunsets every night – you will definitely be amazed at the relaxing atmosphere found here. The island is simply stunning, and the color of the water will leave you speechless!

While it could be easy to stay there for a week or longer, most people find that a 3-4 day stay is more than enough to experience the Kapas magic. Accommodation options range from beach camping (for the budget travelers), beach chalets, or the more expensive resort on Gem Island, just a 5-minute boat ride away from Kapas. It’s a truly remarkable place in Malaysia, and shouldn’t be skipped while planning your itinerary through the country!

Recommended by Erika | Erika’s Travelventures

In the heart of Malaysia lies Taman Negara National Park, an ideal introduction to what the Malaysian jungle has to offer visitors. The best way to reach Taman Negara National Park is by a 3-hour scenic boat ride, which departs from Kuala Tembeling and costs 35 Ringgit (USD 8.40). Buses or minivans depart from Kuala Lumpur or the Cameron Highlands heading to Kuala Tembeling each day. Alternatively, you can bus to Jerantut, then bus to Kuala Tahan, the village next to the national park.

You have to take a boat across the river from Kuala Tahan to reach Taman Negara’s main visitor center. Entry to the park costs 1 Ringgit (USD 0.25). You can depart on many treks from the visitor’s center – some are only a few kilometers, and others are overnight treks. Whichever hike you embark on, you are sure to see some interesting insects, plants and flowers, and views over the jungle! If you’re lucky, you may see some jungle animals too.

There are a few tours that you can do in Taman Negara National Park, such as a guided trek at night, to try and see nocturnal animals. Inside the park are some elevated animal viewing huts and a fun canopy walkway where you can walk from platform to platform far up in the trees! Overall, Taman Negara is a great place to experience walking in the dense Malaysian jungles and spend time in nature. Unless you’re an avid jungle trekker, I recommend staying 1-2 nights in Kuala Tahan for visiting Taman Negara National Park.

Recommend by Renata Green | Bye Myself

A visit to the Cameron Highlands is not to be missed when traveling Malaysia, especially since it is one of the most famous landmarks in Malaysia . The wide tea plantations, lush jungles, and mysterious mossy forests at the significantly cooler highlands will amaze you. 

This region, named after British explorer and geologist William Cameron, ranges from 2,600 to 5,259 ft above sea level and is a Malaysian Garden Eden. There are over 700 species of plants growing here, and the vegetation changes according to the ascent of the mountains.  Around April , a guided hike to the jungle is a must since the famous Rafflesia Arnoldii, a stemless blossom looking like some weird red cabbage, being the largest single flower of any flowering plant, is in full bloom. If it’s not the season, you do not need a guided tour to explore the jungle trails around.

But the highlands are especially known for tea farms – BOH being the most popular one. Therefore, the views of the breathtaking landscape are obstructed by ugly, plastic-covered hothouses. But no worries, it gets better. Once you get into the woodlands, you’ll be amazed by the perfect and undisturbed ecosystems. Besides the sumptuous flora, this area is also a shelter for various animals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

There are two main places to stay in the Highlands, namely Brinchang and Tanah Rata. Brinchang is a rather touristy place frequented by groups, while Tanah Rata is more popular with the laid back backpacker crowd. To get to the highlands is easy since there are frequent buses going from Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang. Also, accommodations can arrange direct trips being a little more expensive but much faster and more comfortable.

Recommended by Chris | More Life in Your Days

Ipoh has to be one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. Despite being the largest city in Perak state, it has a great small-town feel to it and a cool, retro vibe. You will find street art, hawker markets, cute architecture, and trendy cafes all in the relatively small historic center of the town in Ipoh.

If you are a foodie, you will love Ipoh, which many people consider Malaysia’s culinary capital. At night, hawker food markets spill out into the streets and alleyways. And, you will be spoiled for choice when deciding how to fill your tum! Ipoh is also the birthplace of Malaysia’s famous white coffee. This you can enjoy at one of the many retro cafés around the town center.

Stay in the town for at least a couple of days to give you a chance to soak up the vibe and visit some of the other attractions nearby. Be sure not to miss the many cave temples or Sunway Lost World (ideal if you have kids) on your visit here.

Ipoh is easy to get to from Kuala Lumpur and is around a 3-hour journey from the capital. We prefer the train for this journey, but you could also take the bus. Other tourist destinations like the Cameron Highlands and Penang can also be reached from Ipoh by bus.

Penang Island

Recommended by Nate | Travel Lemming 

Perhaps no place in Malaysia better encapsulates the country than the island of Penang. The UNESCO World Heritage town of Georgetown is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in its own right. Still, the entire island is also worth inclusion on your Malaysian itinerary.

From soaring skyscrapers and lush jungle to white sand beaches and bustling street stalls – you can find nearly everything that Malaysia is known for packed into this small island, which can be traveled from end to end just over an hour.

There are so many great activities in Penang to keep you busy during your stay. So, I recommend at least three to four days to truly do the island justice. 

Try hiking to the aptly-named Monkey Beach for a rewarding jungle trek that ends with a picturesque beach filled with the critters who gave it its name. Or you can ascend the longest and steepest funicular track in Asia to the top of Penang Hill, where you’ll be treated to heavenly views of the island and surrounding water. And of course be sure to check out one of the many hawker food stalls that dot the island for a taste of the cultural vibrancy that makes this place so special. 

Whatever you do, Penang is sure to be an island that will capture your heart! 

No Malaysia itinerary would be complete without visiting Georgetown – Penang’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So it comes as no surprise that this little town is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia! 

Georgetown packs the perfect mix of culture, history, and Instagrammable places. One of the most popular things to do in the city is to hunt for street art. The town is chock-full with cute and quirky street art dotted along colorful streets lined with broken down shophouses, colonial-style buildings and age-old temples. The best way to find these gems though, is to grab a Street Art Map as soon as possible. Many of the murals are hidden, which means finding them on your own can be tricky.

Getting an  iconic view of the cityscape at Komtar  is another must while visiting here. Go at sunset for magnificent views and, more importantly, cooler temperatures! The Clan Jetties is another popular point of interest. Here you can get a closer look at Chinese settlers’ local life and snap up some great pics of the colorfully decorated stilt houses. Of course, ioining a fun food tour  is yet another great pastime here. Head to one of the hawker stalls where it’s easy to mingle with locals and get a real taste of authentic Malay cuisine.

Whatever you do, try to spend at least 2-3 days in Georgetown before exploring the rest of the island in-depth.

Recommended by Aurelia | Daily Travel Pill

This beautiful island, situated in the north of Malaysia, is one of the most incredible places to visit in Malaysia. Endless beaches with white sand and tall palm trees are waiting for you here! Every corner of this island is simply postcard-perfect.

Langkawi is well known for snorkeling and island hopping, but there are many other things to do too. You can visit the Langkawi Sky Bridge, which offers the most beautiful views of the island. Alternatively, visit the amazing Seven Wells Waterfall . The waterfall is a popular attraction among both locals and tourists. You can explore the falls or swim in the small pools formed at the base of the waterfall. It’s the perfect place to cool down on a hot summer day.

To get to Langkawi, you can take the fast boat for a few hours from Penang. I recommend spending at least two days in Langkawi . You will be amazed by the beautiful beaches and the island’s incredible natural beauty. While you’re in Langkawi, don’t hesitate to try the seafood. Simply delicious!

Recommended by Ann | The Road Is Life

When considering an island getaway in Malaysia, Langkawi is the first thing that comes to mind for most people. But, just off Malaysia’s northeast coast lies the ultimate tropical paradise: the stunning Perhentian Islands. Upon arrival, you will be met with lush jungle, calm turquoise water, and pristine white sand beaches that aren’t packed with tourists.

The Perhentian Islands are made up of two main islands: Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar. The island you choose to stay at comes down to the type of traveler you are. Besar, the larger of the two, is known for its luxurious villas and resorts. Whereas, Kecil caters to backpackers and budget travelers.

No matter which one you choose, the laid back island vibes make this place truly unique. With no roads or cars and limited Wi-Fi, time just seems to slow right down. Besides spending your time relaxing on the beach, you might wonder what people fill their days with.

The main attraction of the Perhentian Islands is what lies beneath the surface of those crystal clear waters. For a surprisingly affordable price, you can enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving here. Fancy swimming with turtles and snorkeling with reef sharks? Look no further! Depending on how much diving/snorkeling you’re planning to do, 5 nights is the perfect amount of time to spend on the Perhentians.

The reason you don’t see tourists lining these perfect beaches is that getting to the Perhentians is no simple task. Depending on where you are coming from, it can take up to a full day of travel. The quickest way to get there from Kuala Lumpur is to fly into the city of Kota Bharu. From there, take a taxi (1hr) or a bus (1.5hrs) to Kuala Besut.

Fast boats to the Perhentian Islands depart regularly daily from the jetty at Kuala Besut . It’s not necessary to book your boat ticket in advance. However, if you wish to do so for peace of mind, find more information here .

ALSO READ: What are the Best Islands to visit in Asia?

Recommended by Aaron from  Aaron Teoh  

Once a bustling tin mining town that was home to the deepest and largest tin mine in the world, Sungai Lembing was fading into oblivion with the collapse of tin ore prices in the 80s. It is experiencing a revival as a tourism spot in recent years, mostly among locals but with a growing reach.

The biggest draws at Sungai Lembing are its mining history, the surrounding nature, and the local food. At the mining museum, it is possible to explore parts of the old mine and learn about its history and miners’ lives.

For more nature, the two popular morning hikes from town are to Panorama Hill and Rainbow Waterfalls. Both start pre-dawn and are done on separate days.

Finally, the ingredients and food made in Sungai Lembing, from noodles to beancurd to broths, draw visitors from all over Malaysia. Mainly because the mountain spring water used to make them, give the food a unique flavor not found in similar dishes elsewhere.

Given the two morning hikes that are often part of the itinerary, a weekend trip of 3 days would be ideal for covering the main attractions and exploring the old town a little. Most people travel to Sungai Lembing by car or with tour coaches. To experience some of that old-time vibes, with accessible hikes and fabulous food without the crowds, Sungai Lembing would be the perfect candidate, at  least until everyone else hears about it.

Like what you’re reading? Maybe your friends will too. Pin The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia here.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Best Places to Visit in Vietnam  

Places to visit in East Malaysia / Borneo

Recommended by Marco | Monkey Rock World

Most people come to Tawau flying from Kota Kinabalu as a pit-stop on their way to Semporna and its famous islands. Besides a good coastline and some incredible food, it doesn’t have many attractions for travelers to linger longer. But that’s a pity because Tawau’s outskirts have some interesting things to do for nature lovers.

Tawau Hills Park

First of all, 20km north of town is  Tawau Hills Park , a treasure for nature lovers and people interested in spotting tropical snakes. Guests can stay in the charming wooden accommodation at park headquarters. It’s possible to see hornbills fly overhead, spot colugos, many frogs species, and hundreds of local insects. 

But with at least three days on your hands, you should hike to Mount Lucia, one of the three peaks in the park. This 10-km trek brings you through pristine forest and a mountain ridge inhabited by clouded leopards – feel extremely lucky to spot one. You need a ranger and a guide for this trek, and you will stay in a dorm on top of the ridge, with plenty of great jungle walks around you, and the chance of seeing gibbons and wild Malay civets.

SABAH SOFT WOODS

Not far away from Tawau is the Sabah Soft Woods plantation and their Plant4Borneo Elephants project. Guests come to join jeep safaris to see the herds of wild elephants who have taken up residence in this huge plantation. As part of the trip, they also help plant trees that serve to reforest a wildlife corridor the animals will later use to move between this area and the nearby Danum Valley Conservation Area. A 4 days/3 Nights tour of both Tawau Hills Park and the elephants cost RM1700 per person and is organized by the NGO 1StopBorneo Wildlife. 

You can otherwise go to the park yourself, but it takes a bit of time and effort to organize guides if you wanted to trek further – getting on a tour is the most time and cost-effective way to go. 

Recommended by Lora | Explore with Lora

In Borneo, Malaysia, Sipadan Island is regularly ranked as one of the best dive destinations in the world. And it’s not hard to see why. This small island, formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct undersea volcano, is one of the world’s richest marine habitats.

When  diving Sipadan Island ,   you can expect to see giant green sea turtles and hawksbills all over the place, tornadoes of barracudas, parrotfish, sharks, and morays, all in one dive. More than 3000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in the waters surrounding Sipadan.

There are twelve dive sites, and each has its own distinctive views of coral and aquatic life. But the Barracuda point is definitely the highlight of the trip. This dive site has a great barracuda shoal where you can see thousands in a tornado-like formation. During interval stops, divers get the chance to relax and recharge on Sipadan island’s beautiful beaches.

The island is located in the state of Sabah, in the northern part of Borneo. It is not possible to stay on the island overnight. You can either stay in the town of Semporna or on the nearby islands of Mabul and Kapalai. The closest airport to Sipadan is Tawau, about an hour’s drive from Semporna. From Semporna, you can arrange dive trips to the island through any dive shop. Be sure to book in advance, though. Dive permits are limited to 120 a day, and space can fill up quickly.

Recommended by Wendy | The Nomadic Vegan

Most foreign visitors pass through Semporna rather quickly to go diving or snorkeling on one of the nearby islands like Sipadan or Mabul. But if you can spare a day, it’s really worth stopping to experience something beyond the typical tourist attractions and see what life is like for the locals in Borneo, particularly the Bajau people who live in Semporna.

The most prominent building in town is the main mosque, which stands proudly painted in green and white and is topped with golden onion domes. A great way to while away a morning is by strolling through the local markets. As you might expect in a coastal town, there is a busy fish market, where you will see fish and other sea creatures that have been caught in the nearby waters.

Vegetarian and vegan visitors to Malaysia will probably prefer the produce market, which is quite colorful and much less smelly. Around the mosque and the jetty, you will see many ramshackle houses built on stilts.

Recommended by James | Travel Collecting

One of the best places to visit in Malaysia Borneo is the Danum Valley in the Sabah area. This is one of the few parts of Borneo that has never been logged by humans. The primeval rainforest is magical. There are towering trees with enormous buttresses that are draped in thick vines and shrouded in the early morning mist.

The only place to stay in the Danum Valley Conservation Area is Borneo Rainforest Lodge, an upscale lodge that provides guided hikes and night walks and drives. A typical stay is three days/ two nights. 

The lodge has an office near the airport in Lahad Datu, where a jeep or minivan picks you up for the two-hour drive to the resort. There are hikes up the escarpment where you can look out over the lodge and rainforest. Alternatively, hike to waterfalls deep in the jungle, shallow creeks, or along the canopy walkway. 

There is also a guided night walk and a night drive in the back of an open truck, with a powerful spotlight and an expert guide to help spot wildlife. Possible sightings include orangutans, pygmy elephants, red leaf monkeys, giant flying squirrels, flying frogs, and even rare clouded leopards. 

After the hikes, you can relax in the open-air restaurant and bar or have a spa massage. This is a truly incredible experience rightly deserving a spot on your best places to visit in Malaysia list!

Recommended by Sarah | A Social Nomad

The Kinabatangan River  in Malaysian Borneo is the second-longest river in Malaysia and is located not far from Sandakan’s town. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife, some of which can’t be seen elsewhere globally. The river and the rainforest banks are home to the probosci’s monkey, orangutans, monitor lizards, macaques, and many different birds.

The river’s area is also home to the Borneo pygmy elephants – the smallest elephants in Asia, and there are only 1,500 of them left. They’re distinctly different from mainland elephants, having evolved when Borneo’s island separated more than 300,000 years ago. Even when these elephants are fully grown, they look like babies. And they are seriously cute when viewed from a distance.

Visit the Kinabatangan River from Sandakan by taking a bus and boat transfer. Most visitors will pre-book a stay in one of the lodges located on the river banks. There are both basic and luxury options available. The Kinabatangan River is not a protected area, so there’s no National Park fee to pay, but you are likely to see wildlife directly from your lodge. Otherwise, boat trips are available, and wildlife spotting is best early morning or early evening. Don’t miss out on nighttime walks to see another side of the rainforest. 

You should spend at least two days and one night here, although two nights will give you a better sense of the area.

Recommended by Chad | Adventure Filled Life

Sandakan is a quiet city in the Sabah region of Malaysian Borneo that has maintained it’s local feel quite well. It is only a 1-hour flight from Kota Kinabalu, making it an easy choice for those wondering ‘where to go next.’

You won’t find much in the way of resorts and high-end restaurants here. However, you will find a connection to nature and a city known as a haven for foodies. Food is definitely a major draw, and visitors should prepare to feast on a wide range of spectacular Cantonese and Malaysian food. Things like Bak Kut Teh (pork soup with a rich broth) and Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles) are dishes that visitors must try.

If you only have a day in the city, it’s a good idea to check out the Sim Sim Fisherman’s Village, the Sandakan Central Market, and the War Memorial at Sandakan Park. 

Sandakan lends itself to nature lovers and active travelers, as many of the highlights are located outside of the city. If you have a bit more time, there are a great number of exciting day-trips in the area. Some highly recommended excursions include visiting the Gomantong Bat Cave, taking a cruise on the Kinabatangan River, or seeing one of the many nearby sanctuaries. For a truly bucket-list experience, consider spending the night on Turtle Island!

Situated in Sabah, Kota Kinabalu is a fairly newish city with plenty of development still underway. Despite mainly serving as a pit-stop to those wanting to climb Mount Kinabalu, explore the nearby islands, or trek through the lush jungles here, the city itself is a great add-on to your list of places to visit in Malaysia. 

There’s a lovely promenade at the KK Waterfront where you can stroll along and enjoy a sundowner or fresh seafood dinner. Those wanting to immerse themselves in the local life, head to one of the daily markets where fresh produce and seafood are on display. The “Floating Mosque” is another great attraction in the area, and so are the white sandy beaches nearby. 

When you’re ready to explore the outdoors, hop on a speedboat to the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. Taking a day trip to  Sapi and Manukan Islands   is the perfect way to soak up some island vibes. Spend the day relaxing on the beach and swimming in the turquoise waters. Adrenaline junkies can also get their fix by doing an array of water sports. Or better yet, zip line through the lush jungles! 

Be sure to also head to Mount Kinabalu – even if you aren’t into hiking. There’s a great trail through the botanical garden where you can familiarize yourself with the unique plant life. Alternatively, book a  Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring   tour for a hassle-free experience. 

With three to four days, you’ll have ample time to get to know the city and explore its surroundings. 

Kampung Meritam’s Mud Volcanoes

Recommended by Penny | Globe Trove

Not many people have heard of  Kampung Meritam’s mud volcanoes . Fewer people have visited the spot. Located in the Sarawak district of Malaysian Borneo, the mud volcanoes are rather hard to reach. Especially seeing that you have to drive through the Brunei borders. However, they are worth the effort and still ranks as one of my favorite things to do in Borneo.

Caused due to tectonic activity, these volcanoes are a curious sight to see. If you have seen a real volcano, these look like little pimples in the ground. The grey clayey mud that spills out of them is warm to the touch and quickly dries as it is exposed to the hot surroundings.

It is much fun to smear it on your face, and you will find that it is rather cooling. You can also immerse yourself in one of the larger mud pools formed by some of the volcanoes if you want. Just make sure to see if the tanks are filled with water for a bath post your soak.

Recommended by Fiona | Passport and Piano

Mulu National Park is a Unesco World Heritage site in the Miri Division of Sarawak.   In the heart of the tropical rainforest, Mulu’s main attraction is the show caves.

The show caves are unique and can only be visited on day tours with a national park guide.   Inside the caves are some of the world’s most exceptional examples of stalactites and stalagmites.

There are four caves to visit; the Deer Cave has the largest cave passage globally and is home to millions of bats. You can watch the bats leave the cave at dusk. It’s a spectacular sight as they form waves of black swirls in the sky. At the end of the passage is the Garden of Eden. Here a hole in the cave allows light to filter through, and a plethora of flora and fauna grow below.

Another spectacular cave is Clearwater, which is the longest cave in Asia. There’s a river through the center, with stunning scenery to admire from the well designed wooden walkways inside the cave.

To experience the rainforest from a different angle, you can participate in a sky canopy walk. The 480km rope bridge swings high in the sky, and you can see all the trees and vegetation from above. You can also get a little closer to the monkeys that swing amongst the treetops.

Another spectacular cave is Clearwater, which is the longest cave in Asia.   Through the centre, there’s a river, with stunning scenery to admire from the well designed wooden walkways inside the cave.

Pro Tips: The only way to get to Mulu is by air. Flights go from either Miri or Kuching and can be booked through Malaysian airways. The best hotel in the area is the  Mulu Marriott Resort and Spa . To experience the caves and explore a couple of trails around the park, you need at least 3 days. Although, staying longer is recommended, especially if you want to do some of the overnight treks.

Located on the Malaysian part of Borneo’s island,  Niah National Park  is often overlooked by tourists. The closest town to this gorgeous place is Miri. The National Park is located around 80 kilometers from Miri, and you can reach the park in 1h30.

One of the interesting things about the park is that it encompasses a part of Borneo’s tropical forest. This makes it an interesting experience to walk through. The boardwalks and well-marked trails make it easy to explore the park, and you do not need a guide.

The highlight of the park, however, is the Niah Caves, which are enormous. The interconnected network of caves will leave you spellbound. Make sure you carry a torch, though, as one of the caves is explored in pitch darkness. If that wasn’t enough, at the end of the cave, you could marvel at wall paintings that date back to the Iron age.

The walk itself is long, so set out early and carry water. It isn’t strenuous and can be done easily but watch your step as it can get slippery in parts. If you are in the Sarawak area of Borneo, make sure to put it on your list places to visit in Malaysia! 

Recommended by Ania | The Travelling Twins

Fancy visiting the Cat City of Borneo? Kuching is a fascinating place. Both within the city and on day trips. There’s everything from jungle hikes (Orangutans, insect-eating plants, mud-skipping fish), street-art trails and a Cat Museum.

Firstly about those cats. The word Kuching means “cat.” The place is full of cat statues, and you can even listen to Cats FM radio. Visit the museum in North City Hall containing thousands of moggie images, and even a cat mummy (the Egyptian kind.)

The lovely character of Kuching city follows through with more street art, including our favorite: a wheelbarrow full of orangutans.

If this is your first trip to Borneo, visit the Sarawak Cultural Village early. It gives an enjoyable and painless introduction to ethnic diversity and is a great place to explore in its own right. Staff demonstrates the timeless pursuits of the jungle economy in a village of reconstructed folk-houses.

Then go on into the real jungles and parks. Bako is close to Kuching and is one of Borneo’s richest wildlife areas (and the world.) Explore diverse habitats and see those mud-skipping fish, snakes, lizards, and endangered probosci’s monkeys. On other day trips from Kuching, we saw orangutans and the ghastly Rafflesia plant with its one-meter diameter flowers smelling rotten meat.

We loved our five-day stay in  Kuching with kids  as it combined fascinating learning with the fun of spotting rare and exciting living things. All in a vibrant, friendly place.

Where to go in Malaysia Conclusion

As you can see, there are heaps of amazing places to visit in Malaysia! I hope this guide has helped you decide where to go and what to do!

That’s all I’ve got on Malaysia for now. Have you visited Malaysia yet? If so, what tips do you have for fellow travelers planning a Malaysia itinerary? Feel free to share your tips on best places to visit, best things to do and see, and anything in between below!

Liked these Best Places to Visit in Malaysia ? Maybe your friends will too. Share it with them here.

join the club

You’ll also love.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

21 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Vietnam

Trending now.

Follow @ Hoponworld

Travel guides

• Travel Guides
• Itineraries
• City Guides
• Beach Guides
• Outdoor Guides
• Tips & Inspo

Get exclusive access to detailed travel guides & tips!

Work with me

• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Hoponworld · Theme by 17th Avenue

updated on December 7, 2022

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Bizarre Travel Stories
• Budget Friendly Travel
• Eco-Friendly Travel
• Packing Tips
• Points + Miles
• Travel Advisory + Alerts
• Travel Trends
• Cocktails + Spirits
• Dishes + Entertainment
• Restaurants
• Best Accessories
• Style + Fashion
• Travel Bags
• Travel Tech
• Animals Travel + Updates
• Celebrity Travel Alerts
• Meditation + Health
• Traveler Job Ideas
• Best Travel Guide
• Saving Tips
• Top Festivals
• Travel + Manners
• Travel Advisors
• Travel Tips + Tricks
• Trip Attractions
• Weather Updates + Places
• Bali Vacation
• Czech Republic
• Denmark Vacation
• UK Vacation
• Ecuador&Galapagos
• Montego Bay
• Turkey Vacation
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Spain&Morocco
• Kenya Tours
• Madagascar Tours
• Mauritius Tours
• Morocco Tours
• Namibia Tours
• Seychelles Tours
• South Africa Tours
• Tanzania Tours
• Zimbabwe Tours
• Antarctica Tours
• Bhutan Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• China Tours
• India Tours
• Japan Tours
• Malaysia Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Singapore Tours
• SriLanka Tours
• Thailand Tours
• Vietnam Tours
• Albania Tours
• Armenia Tours
• Austria Tours
• Bosnia Tours
• Bulgaria Tours
• Croatia Tours
• CzechRepublic Tours
• Denmark Tours
• England Tours
• France Tours
• Germany Tours
• Greece Tours
• Hungary Tours
• Iceland Tours
• Ireland Tours
• Italy Tours
• Latvia Tours
• Montenegro Tours
• Norway Tours
• Poland Tours
• Portugal Tours
• Romania Tours
• Scotland Tours
• Slovenia Tours
• Spain Tours
• Ukraine Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Belize Tours
• Brazil Tours
• Cancun Tours
• Chile Tours
• Colombia Tours
• CostaRica Tours
• Ecuador&Galapagos Tours
• Hawaii Tours
• Los Cabos Tours
• Mexico Tours
• Montego Bay Tours
• Patagonia Tours
• Punta Cana Tours
• Egypt Tours
• Israel Tours
• Jordan Tours
• Turkey Tours
• New York Tours
• Florida Tours
• Australia Tours
• BoraBora Tours
• New Zealand Tours
• Tahiti Tours
• Arizona Tours
• New Mexico Tours
• California Tours
• Nevada Tours
• Washington Tours
• Family Vacation
• Private Tour
• Special Interest
• Adventure Travel
• Cultural Travel
• Last Minutes Hotels
• Last Minutes Vacations
• Last Minutes Cruises
• Last Minutes Flights
• Last Minutes Car Rentals
• Botswana Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking
• Kenya Safaris
• Namibia Safaris
• Rwanda Safaris
• SouthAfrica Safaris
• Tanzania Safaris
• Uganda Safaris
• Zambia Safaris
• Zimbabwe Safaris
• Book flight
• Leisure Jets
• Alaska Cruises Travel
• Best All-Inclusive
• Caribbean Cruises
• Cruises for Family
• Disney Cruises + Destinations
• European Cruises
• River Cruises
• Amusement Park
• Beach Vacation
• Best National Parks
• Culture + Activities
• Fall Vacation + Ideas
• Holiday Tour
• Luxury Travel
• Plan Road Trip
• Romantic Places
• Solo Travel + Tips
• Spring Vacation + Tips
• Summer Vacation + Tips
• Trip Suggestion
• Weekend Getaway
• Winter Vacation + Tips
• Travel Books
• Travel sized Toiletries
• Shoes/Clothing
• Travel Apps
• Music Travel Playlist
• Personal Stylist
• Packing Lists
• Language Learning
• Travel related - Movies/TV shows
• International Airlines
• US Airlines
• Visit Island
• Latest Trends
• Destination Of The Year
• Write Review
• Start Planning

Discover 20 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 2023

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

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

Top 20 places To Visit In Malaysia In 2023

1. kuala lumpur.

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

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

2. George Town

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

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

3. Langkawi

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

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

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

5. Cameron Highlands

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

6. Kota Kinabalu

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

7. Taman Negara

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

8. Tioman Island

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

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

10. Gunung Mulu National Park

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

11. Kinabalu Park

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

12. Perhentian Islands

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

13. Johor Bahru

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

14. Putrajaya

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

15. Genting Highlands

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

16. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

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

17. Batu Ferringhi

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

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

18. Redang Island

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

19. Kuala Terengganu

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

20. Sipadan Island

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

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

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

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

Which is the most visited place in Malaysia?

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

Is Malaysia an excellent place to travel?

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

How many days are enough for Malaysia?

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

What is the best month to visit Malaysia?

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

Our private tours typically range from $500 - $1000 per person/per night depending on chosen hotels and room categories, vehicles used, types of tours, flight cost, time of year and other factors. Make an inquiry for a customized trip quote.

Learn more about leisure plans

1888-509-1184.

Signup for Exclusive Deals

Exclusive access to private sales, customized specials & more

20 Things to do in Malaysia + Tourist Spots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Kuala Lumpur

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

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

How to go :

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

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

Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)

Malaysia Travel Essentials:

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

Malaysia Fares & Transport

Malaysia Tours & Discounts

Malaysia  WIFI/SIM Card

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

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

Follow me on Instagram

2. Penang & Georgetown

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

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

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

Penang Travel Essentials

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

THE TOP Komtar Penang

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

Location : Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

Melaka Travel Essentials

4. Langkawi

Location : Kedah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

Langkawi Travel Essentials

Shared Ferry Transfers Between Langkawi and Koh Lipe

Ferry Ticket between Koh Lipe and Langkawi by Hi Lipe

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

5. Putrajaya

Location : Putrajaya, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

Putrajaya Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

6. Legoland & Johor Bahru

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

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

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

Johor Bahru Travel Essentials

Legoland Malaysia Admission Ticket

Legoland Malaysia – SG Transfers

7. Kota Kinabalu

Location : Sabah, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu Travel Essentials

Kota Kinabalu City Half Day Tour

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring

Tunku Abdul Rahman Island Visit & Boat Snorkeling Experience

On My Bucketlist

8. Mount Kinabalu

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

9. Cameron Highlands

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

10. Perhentian Islands

Location : Terengganu, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Redang Island

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

12. Sipadan Island

13. Tioman Island

Location : Pahang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Genting Highlands

15. Mulu Caves

Location : Sarawak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Ipoh Travel Essentials

17. Kuching & Sarawak

18. Sandakan

19. Pahang Taman Negara

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

Pahang Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

20. Bukit Tinggi

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

Beyond Malaysia

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

Singapore Travel Essentials

Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket

Singapore 4G Data SIM Card (SG Airport Pickup)

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

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

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

Places to visit in Malaysia

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

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Malaysia

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

Where to Stay in Malaysia

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

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

Malaysia Essentials & Top Discounts

Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

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

Japan SIM card Pocket WIFI See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Kuala Lumpur Airport Train Ticket (KLIA Ekspres)

KL Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass

Kota Kinabalu Sunset and City Night Dinner Cruise with Complimentary Drinks

Click below to see more on:

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

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

Find more posts about:

• Best Travel
• Best Places
• Best Things To Do

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

December 11, 2015 at 4:09 am

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

December 11, 2015 at 1:48 pm

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

November 20, 2018 at 1:30 pm

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

January 28, 2019 at 4:03 pm

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

December 5, 2019 at 2:15 pm

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

May 5, 2020 at 8:35 pm

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

October 4, 2021 at 11:59 pm

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

20 Fantastic Things to do in Malaysia You Shouldn’t Miss

Ready to discover the best things to do in Malaysia? Explore one of South East Asia’s most alluring countries with this guide. 

Beautiful, exotic Malaysia. Malaysia offers a unique travelling experience incomparable to its neighbours. 

From visiting its prehistoric rainforests to spending a day relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Perhentian Islands, you’ll never be stuck with a dull moment in this stunning country. 

My first visit to Malaysia was something of an afterthought – an addendum to a long trip through Thailand , Vietnam and Laos . 

Don’t make the same mistake – Malaysia is a vibrant destination that deserves as much of your time as you can afford. 

Not sure where to start? These unmissable things to do in Malaysia will blow you away. 

Brilliant Things to do in Malaysia: Top 5 

Observe the orangutans in malaysian borneo.

It’s not everyday you can get up and close with an orangutan or see these creatures in their natural habitat, so when the opportunity does come along, you should take full advantage of it. 

Yet in Sabah’s Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Malaysian Borneo, you can do just that. 

Head there to see rescued and orphaned orangutans who are now protected from poachers. The rehabilitation centre provides a safe and healthy environment for this endangered species. 

Visit the Historic City of Georgetown

Home to some of the country’s best street food, historic buildings, and a thriving art scene – Georgetown , located in the heart of Penang, has plenty to offer visitors looking for things to do in Malaysia. 

In fact, it’s no understatement to say that Georgetown is the place to be if you’re looking to understand how the various cultures and religions of citizens come together in Malaysia. 

Even the local cuisine boasts a diverse range of influences that range from Chinese, Indian, Malay and Nyonya. It’s completely unique and freaking delicious. 

Most people who know anything about Georgetown know that it’s a street art haven! 

Walking the city’s streets it won’t take long to understand why. It’s colourful, vibrant and bursting with works by talented artists from around the world. 

Book a Tour of Georgetown Here

Explore Langkawi

Langkawi is one of the most magical places to visit when in Malaysia. 

This area, made up of 99 islets in the Andaman Sea, received the title of Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO World Geopark in 2007. 

Embark on an adventure to explore Langkawi’s limestone caves, wetlands, and secluded coves by boat. 

If you’re itching to see the Mat Cincang mountain range, one of the oldest rock formations in the area, take a 1.4 mile ride on the cable cars that soar over the forest canopy. Island hopping is a popular activity for visitors of Langkawi as well. 

When the day is coming to an end, jump on a boat and sail the seas during sunset to get the ultimate picture for your instagram. 

Book A Guided Tour of Langkawi Here

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Bet that climbing mountains wasn’t the first thing you thought of when you thought about a trip to Malaysia right? 

Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and can be found in the Kinabalu National Park. 

The mountain’s summit reaches 4,095 metres and from the summit you’ll have the best view you can get in all of Malaysia of the rising sun. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular site to see when visiting Malaysia. 

The trek of Mount Kinabalu can be strenuous and not recommended for inexperienced hikers.

Hike One of the Cameron Highlands Trails

A lush patchwork of rolling hills, the Cameron Highlands is one of the better-known places to visit in Malaysia. Dotted with tea plantations and with jaw-dropping scenery, the hill station area offers a pleasant respite from the hot and humid lowlands. 

Little wonder then that the Cameron Highlands have become one of Malaysia’s prime hiking spots. The highlands are home to 13 hiking trails, ranging from a beginners level to trails for expert hikers. 

One of the best trails to trek is the half-day Trail 10, which leads to the top of Gunung Jasar mountain for stunning views of Tanah Rata and more of the Cameron Highlands. 

More Amazing Things to do in Malaysia

Look in awe at the petronas twin towers.

Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers stand out, or really above, the rest of Malaysia. From 1999 to 2004, until Taipei 101 in Taiwan was built, the Petronas Twin Towers were the tallest buildings in the world standing at about 450 metres. 

The iconic towers were designed by the American architect, César Pelli, whose creations bring a more urban touch to the city. 

Kuala Lumpur is a cool city – much more than people give it credit for – and there’s no better way to see it in its full sprawling glory than to whizz to the sky bridge and soak up the views. 

Trek Through Taman Negara National Park

Malaysia has plenty of rainforests for you to explore and Taman Negara, the world’s oldest rainforest, which is located in Panang, is at the top of the list. 

Simply meaning “national park” in Malay, Taman Negara is a must see. 

Over 4,000 square kilometres of dense jungle and thriving rainforest that’s perfect for river cruises and jungle trekking. Keep an eye out for some of the park’s endangered species (including the Sumatran rhinos and tigers) that call Taman Negara their home. 

Even if you don’t see these rare creatures (and most don’t), wildlife-spotting opportunities abound. 

During your visit be sure to take time to experience the world’s longest canopy walkway that crosses the jungle.

Relax at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, one of the best things to do in Malaysia (well, Malaysian Borneo to be precise) is to take a journey to Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. 

This marine park is made up of five islands: Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Sulug and Mamutik and each island is located just a short boat ride from each other. 

Out of the five islands, Manukan and Sapi are the more developed islands while the remaining three islands have little to no facilities on the island. 

Each island has trails you can follow into the jungle or pick up some snorkelling supplies by the beach and explore the views of the glistening turquoise water. 

Visit Porta De Santiago (A Famosa)

A popular attraction to visit in Malaysia is Porta De Santiago, also known as A Famosa. 

This historical fortress is located in Malacca, the capital city of the Malaysian Malacca state. Built in the early 1500’s this monument is one of the few remaining European historic pieces of architecture left in all of Asia. 

What attracts so many visitors is the gate of the fortress, which is the last of the remains of the ancient artefact. 

Roam Kota Bharu’s Pasar Siti Khadijah Market

If you’re looking for the perfect place to explore the culture of Malaysia and interact with locals – head to Pasar Siti Khadijah in the town of Kota Bharu. 

This market is located in the Kota Bharu and offers a variety of local cuisines, fruit and other products. 

The friendly traders will shout over each other to promote their product and get you to come to their stall. 

Of course, it isn’t a market visit without a bit of bartering – never bartered before? My advice is to have fun, don’t get aggressive and try and come to a fair price. 

Visit Kampung Kraftangan – Kota Bharu’s Handicraft Village 

While in Kota Bharu you also have the opportunity of visiting another one of Malaysia’s attractions – Kampung Kraftangan, also known as the Handicraft Village. 

Hard to miss is the brown coloured wooden village, also home to the Craft Museum, is the hub of local arts and crafts. 

You’ll find beautifully wooden handcrafted objects such as wind chimes and small statues in the courtyard of the village. 

Take time to venture into the one room museum to see more traditional carvings and the fabrics of Malaysia’s traditional fashion.

Dharmikarama Burmese Temple

A breathtaking temple, Dharmikarama Burmese Temple, is the only one of its kind in Penang. 

The Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple is one of two major Buddhist temples located within the Theravada Buddhist co-op on Burma Lane. 

One of the most famous features found in the temple are two Panca Rupa (guardian protectors of the world) images that stand over a globe. 

The temple was designated in 1988 as one of Malaysia’s historical sites to be preserved as a tourist attraction. 

Visitors from around the world come to this temple to take in its history and the beautiful artwork that is found throughout the buildings.

Nab the Views of Georgetown from Penang Hill

Towering 735m above sea level, it’s no surprise that Penang Hill offers visitor’s one heck of a view.  In fact, a visit to Georgetown isn’t complete without at least one trip to Penang Hill to see the breathtaking views of the city below. 

Don’t just schlepp up and down though. Take a guided tour through the nature trail to learn about the rainforest before reaching the top of the hill. If your feet need a rest, no worries, you can also take the cable car to the highest point of the location looking out over the landscape. 

At the top of the hill you’ll find several restaurants along with a carnivorous garden, a mosque, a Hindu temple and a museum. 

Head To Genting Highlands

The fun never stops at Genting Highlands, Malaysia’s biggest holiday destination. Some love it, some hate it – but most people agree that if you get beyond the casino-packed city, the acres of untouched rainforests make it worth the trip. 

In the city itself, Genting Highlands also offers a wide range of Malaysian attractions from bars, theme parks, nightclubs, and of course, the Genting Skyway cable cars. 

This Tour Combines the Genting Highlands and Batu Caves

Ignite Your Senses at The Kuching Spice Market

If you find yourself in Kuching, the capital of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo, searching for things to do. I’m here to tell you that the spice market in Kuching is a must see in Malaysia. 

The local cuisine in Malaysia is a highlight on its own, but visiting the spice market is an experience any foodie should take advantage of.  

Here you’ll be surrounded by all the spices used in local cuisines and might just be inspired to use some of these in your own cooking along your travels or when you return home. 

Take a Peek at the Perhentian Islands 

You’re probably thinking, ‘How many islands do you expect me to visit?’. 

My answer? Visit them all or just one, whatever your heart desires! 

One group of islands that I really do recommend exploring while in Malaysia are the Perhentian Islands. 

These islands provide the best of both worlds: a hidden tropical paradise which is still relatively close to the mainland and transportation links. Go for some of Malaysia’s best scuba diving or snorkelling or spend all night partying around a beachside fire. 

Visit A Tea Plantation in the Cameron Highlands 

I know that I referenced the Cameron Highlands more broadly earlier in this guide, but visiting a tea plantation is special enough to warrant its own entry. 

These tea plantations at first glance look like just rolling emerald green land, but if you journey closer you’ll come to find out that this is one of Malaysia’s many tea plantations. 

The Cameron Valley Tea House sits over a luscious plantation with several dirt paths leading from the cafe down to the tea plantations. 

Relax and enjoy a cup of locally grown tea while looking out over the plantations and taking in the beauty of the highlands.

Take A Cooking Class in Tanah Rata

Journey into the town of Tanah Rata to learn all there is to know about Malaysian cuisine and just how to make it. 

As one of the best things to do in Malaysia, there are plenty of cooking classes offered throughout the town, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. 

Orchid Lodge offers a cooking class where participants will be given various ingredients and told what to do with them as the classes can be less structured than most you’ll find in other Asian countries. 

You’ll find yourself cooking traditional delicious Malaysian and Indian dishes- recipes that you’ll just be dying to show off to your friends back home. 

Head Into The Mossy Forest

The Mossy Forest, which is located in the highest elevations of Cameron Highlands is another thing to do while visiting Malaysia. 

The trails of the mossy forest tend to be engulfed in a thick fog and the cold temperatures will have travellers feeling as if they were transported somewhere other than warm Malaysia. 

This forest is home to a wide array of interesting flora, including the pitcher plant, a brightly colored carnivorous plant. 

Explore Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown

Believe it or not, one of the most visited places in Malaysia happens to be Chinatown, located in Kuala Lumpur. 

The Chinese population in Malaysia is very large which is why their Chinatown area, also known as Petaling Street, is popular with tourists and locals alike. 

One thing to see when in KL’s Chinatown is the Sri Mahamariamman Temple –  one of the oldest Hindu temples in Kuala Lumpur. 

The temple is open to the public, just be sure to remove your shoes before entering. 

Best Things to do in Malaysia: Map 

Discover More Southeast Asia Travel Guides

• Pangkor Laut: Staying in Malaysia’s Private Island Escape
• Ready to Travel to Southeast Asia? Start with These Travel Routes 
• Cool Things to do in Thailand

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Pangkor Laut Resort Review: A Luxury Escape in Malaysia

The Best Things to do in Sabah, Borneo: 14 Treasures in The Land Below the Wind

The Best Things to do in Borneo: 14 Incredible Activities

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Malaysia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021

Malaysia is a multicultural country with much to offer visitors-regardless of their budget or what their idea of fun might be. Kuala Lumpur, the country's capital, is a cosmopolitan city with amazing shopping and stunning architecture-within blocks, you'll find both the ultramodern Petronas Towers and a number of colonial palaces and buildings.

Just a short drive away from the capital, there are plenty of things to do-from islands, mountains, and record-breaking caves, to countless temples and a unique chance to explore the fauna-rich jungle of Borneo .

Malaysia is also a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving , with beautiful coral reefs and soft sandy beaches that regularly make top destinations lists.

For more ideas on how to spend your time, see our list of top tourist attractions in Malaysia.

1. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur

2. batu caves, selangor, 3. mount kinabalu, sabah, 4. perhentian islands, 5. sipadan island, 6. gunung mulu national park, sarawak, 7. penang hill, 8. sepilok orangutan rehabilitation centre, sandakan, 9. kek lok si temple, george town, 10. langkawi skycab, kedah, 11. bako national park, borneo, 12. cameron highlands, pahang, 13. ipoh caverns, map of tourist attractions in malaysia.

The tallest twin towers in the world , the Petronas reach an impressive 452 meters high up into the clouds. The towers are 88 floors tall and have an impressive total of 76 elevators.

Built using reinforced concrete, steel, and glass, the two towers are connected to each other by a double skybridge on the 41st and 42nd floors. Visitors can make their way up here for stunning views of KL and the 6.9-hectare KLCC Park below-the views are particularly impressive at night.

While most of the floors on the towers are rented to companies-IBM, Microsoft, and Huawei Technologies all have offices here-the bottom floors of the towers are reserved for Suria KLCC, one of the largest shopping centers in Malaysia . With over 300 stores, an art gallery, and even space for a Philharmonic Hall, this retail and entertainment space will keep visitors occupied for hours.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur

Located less than an hour outside Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves complex consists of three main caves plus a series of smaller ones, most of them containing statues and 100-year-old shrines dedicated to Hindu gods.

The main cave, known as Cathedral Cave , is at the top of a massive colorful staircase-make it all the way up the 272 steps, and you'll find a space decorated with statues, altars, and lights. At the bottom of the stairs, a 43-meter-tall gold statue of Lord Murugan welcomes visitors.

Visitors are allowed to explore the caves on their own or can join a guided tour to learn more about the caves. During the Hindu festival of Thaipusam in January, thousands of people flock to the cave for the celebrations.

At just over 4,000 meters high, Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in Malaysia. The mountain is part of Kinabalu Park, one of the oldest national parks in Malaysia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Because of its unique ecosystem mixing alpine meadows, grasslands, and shrublands, Kinabalu is home to an impressive range of both plant and animal species, including the threatened orangutans.

Mount Kinabalu is a major destination for climbers-but summiting here can be tricky. Only 185 climb permits are issued daily by the park, and visitors must make accommodation reservations and hire a mountain guide in advance in order to be allowed to hit the trails. Although people under 16 are allowed to join climbing groups, there are restrictions in place.

Climbers should plan a stay at the Kinabalu National Park before attempting the climb-since the park itself is already at an altitude of over 1,800 meters, this will allow for acclimatization before attempting to reach the peak.

Official site: https://www.mountkinabalu.com/

Once a stopping point used by traders traveling around Southeast Asia, this group of small islands is part of a marine park and has become a major tourist destination in northeastern Malaysia. Most of the islands can be accessed by either ferry or small motorized boats, although only the two larger islands offer accommodations, shops, and amenities-of these two, Pulau Perhentian Besar has more of a backpacking scene, while Pulau Perhentian Kecil is a little more upscale and family-oriented.

While you can hop on a water taxi to move from one beach to the next here, it's also possible to follow the island's walking trails instead-a much-recommended option as you get to trek through jungle paths and get open stunning views of the water along the way.

Scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular activities here, but visitors can also volunteer in turtle conservation programs and get unique access to the areas where turtles come to lay eggs.

Sipadan Island and its surrounding ocean waters are part of the world's richest marine habitat , home to endangered hawksbill turtles, whale sharks, monitor lizards, and hundreds of coral species. The island is also considered one of the best diving destinations in the world and is fiercely protected-visiting requires a permit in advance and only 120 permits are given out per day.

Reaching the island requires an hour-long ride on a speed boat. Once here, the island can be easily explored on foot, with different beaches and reef sites within minutes of each other.

Since it's no longer possible to stay on the island because of environmental protection laws (the nearby Mabul Island offers accommodations), visitors usually come here early in the morning as part of snorkeling and diving tours. All visitors must leave the island by 3pm.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site might be more famous for its impressive karst limestone pinnacles that resemble people standing in large formations, but the park's massive caves are just as stunning.

Thick rain forest covers most of the park and makes some areas difficult to access-one of the reasons some of the caves here weren't really explored until the 1970s. Another reason is how massive the cave systems are: both the largest passage and the largest underground chamber in the world are located in caves here.

Deer Cave is particularly beautiful, with ceilings over 122 meters tall, waterfalls cascading through the rocks, and an opening over a sinkhole that's over one kilometer wide. Visitors to the park can also trek up to the Sarawak Chamber and Paku Waterfall or try a climb up on The Pinnacles Summit Trek, which takes three days and involves ropes, ladders, and an arduous walk through the jungle.

The top of Penang Hill can be reached via the Penang Hill Railway, an air-conditioned funicular that makes the 2,007-meter-long climb up in five to 10 minutes. Although there are mid-stops between the base station and the highest point, these are done only on request and mostly used by residents who live at those stops.

The top of Penang Hill offers beautiful green views over the city and is home to the Habitat Penang Hill, with a 1.6-kilometer nature trail cutting through the rain forest and a number of tropical gardens; a canopy walk 40 meters up in the sky; ziplines ; and the Skyway, which offers three viewing decks and a 360-degree view of the bay and islands.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Penang

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center was founded in 1964 to help orphaned orangutan babies rescued from the pet trade or saved from illegal hunting. The center's main goal is to help these orangutans learn how to survive in the wild (in fact, replacing what they would usually learn from their mothers), so they can be eventually released into the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, which is covered in virgin forest and extends for 4,300 hectares around the rescue center. Over 80 orangutans currently live free in the reserve.

While visitors cannot interact with the animals or approach them, they can come to the center to learn more about orangutans and the challenges they face today, see the nursery and the climbing area through a glass window, and attend feeding times (seen from a platform) twice a day.

The boardwalk that cuts through the center offers plenty of opportunities to explore and see the orangutans playing and jumping around on the trees nearby.

Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple sits on a hill, at the bottom of Air Itam mountain. As Asian temples go, Kek Lok Si is relatively new, as construction began in 1890-but the massive seven-story Pagoda surrounded by 10,000 Buddha statues make this a striking destination that can't be missed.

Surrounded by gardens, fish ponds, prayer halls, and a number of stalls selling both religious and secular souvenirs, the pagoda is also home to a 36-meter-tall statue of Kwan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.

The temple attracts many visitors from all around Southeast Asia who come here to "make merits" but also to see one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the area. Chinese New Year celebrations are particularly beautiful at the temple, as the entire space is decorated with thousands of lanterns.

Official site: https://kekloksitemple.com

The Langkawi cable car makes a 2.2-kilometer trip between the Base Station and the top of Gunung Machinchang mountain, where a number of attractions-including a pedestrian skybridge-are located. There's also a middle station, where travelers can get off to access a viewing platform.

The journey to the top, in glass-bottom gondolas, takes about 15 minutes and offers sweeping views of the bay , the Telaga Tujuh waterfall, and the turquoise waters surrounding Langkawi Island .

In addition to the skybridge, the top station also offers a number of amenities, two additional viewing platforms, and a trail that descends all the way to the middle station through the evergreen jungle.

Bako National Park sits right against the water, sandy beaches, and steep sandstone cliffs surrounding the beautiful mangroves and peat swamp forests. Reaching the park requires taking a bus followed by a 20-minute ride on a small motorboat that's not for the faint of heart.

Once at the shore, you can follow any of the 16 marked trails on the island to help you explore (there's no transportation within the park) and hopefully catch sight of the unusual local flora and fauna , which includes carnivorous plants, the endangered proboscis monkeys, and the rare and friendly bearded pig. Two of the best trails include the Lintang Loop for great sightseeing on relatively easy terrain, and the Tajor trail, which takes you to a waterfall and pools you can swim in.

To better appreciate the beauty of the park, consider staying overnight, as most animals only come out once the sun sets. There are bungalows for rent as well as a designated campsite at the park headquarters.

Official site: https://www.bakonationalpark.com/

A stunningly emerald green hill station, the Cameron Highlands cover an area of over 712 square kilometers. The main attraction here is the tea estates, a legacy from British colonial times. The area, however, also offers orchards; lavender farms; and plenty of opportunities to hike through the local mossy forest to reach aboriginal villages, waterfalls, and lakes.

Both locals and visitors head here to enjoy the cooler climate and experience a true high-tea experience in places like the Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate , where you can not only tour the plantation but also see the tea-making process, sit at the café, and stock up on goodies at the gift shop.

The Cameron Highlands area is also the native domain of the Rafflesia, the largest individual flower on Earth , which grows directly on the ground and can reach a diameter of over 100 centimeters.

There are two big reasons to visit vibrant, bustling Ipoh - the city is known as the gateway to the Cameron Highlands and the home of many limestone caves.

Massive Gua Tempurung is one of the longest caves in Malaysia, filled with viewing platforms to help visitors get closer to the stunning crystal formations covering the walls, the giant chambers, and the underground river. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple is filled with Buddhist statues and home to a garden and turtle pond, while Panjang Cave is famous for its 5,000-year-old Neolithic paintings.

Ipoh's colonial past is another important attraction, with plenty of beautiful architecture in buildings like the Birch Clock Tower and the Railway Station, as well as a 6.5-kilometer-long Heritage Trail that stretches around the city.

Ipoh is also considered one of Malaysia's food capitals (along with Penang). There are plenty of restaurants and cafés around the city, but Ipoh's street food stalls offer an equally amazing culinary experience where you can try taugeh chicken rice or curry mee. For an afternoon break, it's hard to beat a serving of caramel egg custard with the famous Ipoh white coffee.

Other things to do in Ipoh include visiting the Lost World of Tambun theme park, shopping the flea market at Memory Lane, and checking out the beautiful street art in Oldtown Ipoh.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More of Malaysia : Malaysia is a stunning mix of jungle, beaches, and cities that offer examples of both colonial and futuristic architecture. Most visitors coming to Malaysia arrive in Kuala Lumpur first, a city full of interesting sights you can learn more about on our Top Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur article. If you're going to Penang or George Town instead, check out the top tourist attractions in Penang . Still in the early stages of planning your trip? Take a look at everything Malaysia has to offer in our article about the best places to visit in Malaysia .

Wander-Lush

Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get around Malaysia

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

→ Check timetables and book tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to go in Malaysia: Cities & culture

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

George Town (Penang)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu

Recommended by Khushboo, Munni of All Trades

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Sharon, Dive into Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

Bukit Mertajam

By Marco Ferrarese, Penang Insider

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

Recommended by Sonakshi and Mainak, Places In Pixel

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

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

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

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

Johor Bahru

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kek Lok Si Temple

Recommended by Rose, Where Goes Rose

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Nature, adventure & wildlife

Cameron highlands.

Recommended by Luke, The Coastal Campaign

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

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

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

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

Teman Negara

Recommended by Stephen, Asia-Hikes

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

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

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

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

Gunung Mulu National Park

Recommended by Oksana and Max, Drink Tea & Travel

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Rachita, Nomllers

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

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

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

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

Danum Valley

Recommended by James Ian, Travel Collecting

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

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

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

Gua Tempurung

Recommended by Iuliya, Vidadeliya

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Marya, The BeauTraveler

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

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

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

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

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Islands & beaches

Recommended by Cathy, Mummy Travels

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

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson

Recommended by Allison, Urbanite Diary

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

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

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

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

Sipadan Island

Recommended by Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perhentian Islands

Recommended by Lotte, Phenomenal Globe

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

Recommended by Kirsten, Sand in My Curls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tioman Island

By Vivien and Aaron, The Dharma Trails

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Resorts

Avani sepang goldcoast resort, sepang.

Recommended by Stephanie, History Fangirl

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

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

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

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

Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands

Recommended by Sandy and Vyjay, Voyager

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

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

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

Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi

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

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

Malaysia essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this excellent post!

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

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

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

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

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Malaysia

Malaysia is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia providing diverse experiences for visitors and locals alike. Its combination of cultures have enabled a unique amalgam of designs and cuisines, making Malaysia truly a one-of-a-kind place. We’ve discovered some of the best, most interesting must-visit attractions in Malaysia that reflect what a melting pot this country can be.

This northern state is located at the tip of Peninsular Malaysia, bordering Thailand. It is home to some of the most interesting food in Malaysia as it combines flavors from both Malay and Thai cuisines. Perlis is also home to Gua Kelam , one of the oldest caves in Peninsular Malaysia, naturally linking the foot of a hill to a valley 370 meters away. While not as urban developed as the more popular states of Penang and Selangor, Perlis prides itself on its ancient and traditional roots, almost seeming like a fixed point in time of older Malaysia.

Gua Kelam, Kaki Bukit, Perlis, +60 12-455 2121

Batu Ferringhi, Penang

Langkawi, kedah.

A cluster of islands off the coast of Kedah, Langkawi is a haven for duty-free shopping and island hopping. With pristine waters and peaceful scenery, Langkawi is also popular for water sports, and many flock here for weekends by the sea. Stick around to witness the amazing sea eagles convene for a feeding or take a tour to visit the mangroves they reside in.

Kuala Selangor, Selangor

This nature reserve borders an old Dutch colonial fort and the paddy fields of the old town of Sekinchan. Loved by history and nature lovers, many flock to this mangrove swamp to watch huge colonies of fireflies during the mating season, or to spot the elusive leopard and playful river otters.

1. Blue Mansion, Penang

2. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur

Bridge, Park, Building, Shop

3. Bukit Tinggi, Pahang

8. cameron highlands, pahang.

Another high-terrain attraction that must be visited, Cameron Highlands is known for the Boh Tea Plantation . Feast on sweet strawberries and sip on hot milk tea as you swap the hot, stuffy atmosphere of Malaysia’s cities for the cool hill breezes, where beautiful flowers bloom.

4. Genting Highlands, Pahang

Amusement Park, Casino

Redang, Terengganu

This east-coast island is an absolute dream come true for marine wildlife lovers, as it is a known nesting ground and sanctuary for sea turtles. This beautifully preserved island getaway is also popular for snorkeling and scuba diving, and a perfect spot for a romantic honeymoon.

Malacca is one of the best states to visit for heritage sites and antique stores, and is immensely popular with history lovers and artists. By day it is a town-sized museum, filled with relics from Dutch settlers and Malaysia’s unique Baba Nyonya Peranakan culture; by night it turns into a giant night market, lining the length of Jonker Street.

Sabah is arguably one of the greatest places on Earth for nature lovers. A part of Borneo island, this part of East Malaysia is full of reserves dedicated to the preservation of unique animals, such as the sun bear and the orangutan. Sabah is also where the immensely popular Mount Kinabalu is found, on many mountain climbers’ bucket lists.

Mount Kinabalu, Ranau, Sabah

Sipadan Island, Sabah

One of the most amazing diving spots in the world, Sipadan Island is the ultimate destination for scuba divers and marine biologists from all over the world. Unlike Langkawi or Redang, Sipadan is less of a luxury retreat, and caters best to people wanting to explore the underwater world off the coast. The crystal clear waters and abundance of sea life are worth trading the luxury of a fancy hotel room for, however.

5. Mulu Caves, Sarawak

Park, Natural Feature

Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia, and is aptly nicknamed Land of the Hornbills. Visiting the state could be a whole trip in itself, as there is simply so much to explore. From the developed and multicultural capital city of Kuching to the isolated but friendly Orang Asli settlements all over the jungle and the nature reserves just waiting to be trekked, Sarawak is the perfect place to rethink how well you know Mother Nature and be awed by its creations.

6. Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur

Hindu Temple, Shrine

One of the largest Hindu pilgrimage sites outside of India, the Batu Caves are home to Lord Murugan’s shrine. A giant golden effigy of him stands proudly at the foot of the steps leading up to the sacred caverns. Soak in the serenity of the tranquil temple during the off season, or join in the festivities of the Thaipusam festival early in the year.

7. Sam Poh Tong Temple, Perak

Buddhist Temple

If the Hindu cave temple amazed you, drop by the Sam Poh Tong Temple further up north. One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Ipoh, Perak, this Chinese Buddhist place of worship is built directly into a cave and leads to a green enclosure within. In it, a beautiful garden full of lake turtles contributes to the gorgeous scenery. You can also dine at a simple vegetarian restaurant adjacent to the temples.

8. Kenyir Lake, Terengganu

Natural Feature

9. Sungai Klah Hot Springs, Perak

10. sunway lagoon, selangor.

Amusement Park, Park

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in petaling jaya, malaysia, for every traveller.

What Are the Best Resorts in Malaysia?

The Best Hotels to Book in Sandakan, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels to Book in Sabah, Malaysia

Guides & Tips

The borneo sun bear: where to find the world's smallest bear.

The Best Hotels in Miri, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

See & Do

Visiting the borneo rainforest: all you need to know.

The Best Hotels in Sarawak, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels to Book in Ipoh, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

Food & Drink

Borneo food: top dishes to try when you visit.

The Best Hotels in Batu Ferringhi, Malaysia, for Every Traveller

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1275019
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

15 Best Cities to Visit in Malaysia

With a long and fascinating history, Malaysia is home to an intoxicating mix of different cultures and people – this is what makes its cities so fascinating to explore. Buddhist temples, skyscrapers and bustling markets can be found alongside colonial architecture and Malay buildings, while a mesmerizing array of beautiful landscapes border the cities themselves.

With its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine and welcoming, friendly people, the best cities in Malaysia are unlike any place you´ve been before.

15. Alor Setar

Known as ‘the rice bowl of Malaysia,’ Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah State, which is full of padi fields and delightful curving hills. The city itself is a bastion of Malay culture and has some interesting galleries to visit, as well as some lovely architecture on show.

Nearby is the stunning Pulau Langkawi, a tropical island with idyllic beaches. This is where most visitors stop by when exploring the state. Part of an archipelago with around hundred islands, it is this contrast of padi fields and beautiful beaches that makes Kedah such a delight to discover.

14. Semporna

A hectic place without any historic or cultural attractions of note, tourists stop by Semporna for one reason only – to get to the nearby Semporna Archipelago. Full of traffic, if visitors do stay in the city for any period of time, they invariably head to a check out the mosque and the distinctive hotels on stilts lining the waterfront.

Although some people do stay in the city´s cheap hotels to save money for a couple more dives, in general, you are much better off simply using Semporna to reach the nearby islands with their divine diving sites.

13. Putrajaya

Lying around thirty kilometers from Kuala Lumpur , Putrajaya is a planned city that hosts the government´s administrative body. Impressive to behold, there are some great monuments and architecture on show here, as well as some fantastic green spaces and parks.

Beautifully illuminated at night, the city is well below its intended population, which makes it a bizarre and slightly unsettling place to visit. Well worth a visit, Putrajaya testifies to Malaysia´s ambition and vision for the future.

12. Sandakan

Looking out over the bay of the same name, Sandakan´s strategic location meant that it was heavily bombed during the Second World War. Despite this, there is a nice waterfront and some quaint colonial buildings and war memorials on offer – though in truth, Sandakan is seldom frequented by tourists. From here you can take a scenic boat ride down the Kinabatangan River, where there is a plethora of wildlife on show, or visit the orangutan sanctuary at Sepilok.

11. Kuantan

The capital of Pahang state, Kuantan´s unattractive sprawl of concrete buildings and lack of cultural or historic attractions means that it often gets overlooked by tourists. However, the second largest port in the country does have a couple of nice points that make it worth exploring, with the oldest part of Kuantan, the Padang, being the highlight.

There are some nice beaches nearby, and people often use Kuantan as a base from which to explore the nearby Gua Charas cave temple, or the royal town at Pekan with its fantastic palace.

10. Johor Bahru

The most southern city in Malaysia lies on the border with Singapore. As such, most people only stop by on their way to the neighboring country. A chaotic, traffic-filled place with poor air quality, in recent years, Johor Bahru has tried to reinvent itself – things are slowly getting better, with more large developments still to come.

A bustling city, it has more than enough museums and cultural attractions to make it worth visiting. It also has some great shopping malls and lively nightlife.

9. Kuala Terengganu

Formerly a tiny fishing village, the discovery of oil transformed the face of the city – skyscrapers now rub shoulders with quaint old buildings. Despite the proliferation of modern developments, Kuala Terengganu is still a charming place, with a particularly lovely Chinatown and some delightful beaches along the coast.

Mostly used as a base to explore the surrounding region’s mesmerizing jungles and beautiful islands, the city has enough to keep visitors entertained for a couple of days.

8. Kota Bharu

Located in the far northeast of the Malaysian peninsula, Kota Bharu is mainly visited by people looking to head on to nearby Thailand or the Perhentian Islands. The city itself, however, is the perfect place to gain an insight into Malay culture, with the interesting and educational Culture Centre being particularly captivating.

With some lovely old architecture on offer, as well as some fantastic Buddhist temples and lively markets, Kota Bharu is a good location from which to explore the delights of Kelantan state.

Fueled by oil money from the petroleum industry, Miri has modernized and expanded into the large city we know today. A modern place full of life, the city has numerous fine restaurants, hotels and bars for visitors to choose from, as well as some shopping malls and bustling markets.

Due to its diverse population, it is possible to try dishes from all around Malaysia and further afield. As it is a major transport hub, many people stop by Miri on their way to other cities in Malaysia.

Despite being the the largest city in Borneo , Kuching is a laid-back, relaxing place to visit, with a lot to see and do. Lying on the banks of the Sarawak River, the city has a charming waterfront promenade and many interesting museums. There are also numerous restaurants, bars and cafes that highlight the multicultural side of Kuching.

Skyscrapers rise as if from amidst the jungle, and it is this, along with its colonial architecture, that makes for such a picturesque setting. A great base for exploring the rest of the island and the nearby national parks, in Kuching you can organize treks into the jungle as well as trips along the coast.

5. Kota Kinabalu

Although Kota Kinabalu may not initially appear very enticing due to its sprawling concrete buildings, once you get to know it, you´ll soon become enamored with all that it has to offer. Located in Borneo, the city looks out over the South China Sea and has a vibrant waterfront and some incredible sunsets.

With malls, markets, fantastic cuisine, and a vibrant arts and music scene, Kota Kinabalu has everything that you could want in a city. With so many sights lying nearby, it´s definitely worth checking out. From here you can hike Mount Kinabalu, go scuba diving off the coast, or visit the spectacular islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park.

The capital of Perak state, Ipoh lies between Kuala Lumpur and the Thai border, and is a lovely place to stop by. Its old town is pleasant to stroll around, with lots of little shops and cafes dotting its tiny streets. The new part of town has many great restaurants serving up traditional local dishes.

A plethora of impressive temples catering to all religions lie within the city, with the Perak Tong cave temple being the highlight. A nice place to get away from the bustle of larger cities, Ipoh is also a gateway to the nearby Cameron Highlands.

Lying on the west coast of the Malaysian peninsula, Malacca (Melaka in Malay) is a unique place to visit due to the British, Dutch and Portuguese all having ruled here at one point. As such, there is a wealth of lovely colonial architecture to explore, with each nation having left its mark in terms of the buildings left behind and the cultural impact that they had.

With a lively night market and a wide range of different cuisines on offer, this charming city is understandably a popular tourist destination in Malaysia.

2. George Town

An eclectic mix of cultures greet you as you wander around George Town´s chaotic streets – this is what makes it so captivating to visit. An attractive place, beautiful mosques and temples can be found scattered about, while skyscrapers and shopping malls compete for space alongside the old colonial architecture and local Malay buildings.

Its narrow streets that take you past little old shrines, bustling cafes and lively bars are fun to get lost in, and there are plenty of great street art murals. With delicious cuisine that is a blend of the various cultural influences readily available, the second largest city in the country is well worth a visit.

1. Kuala Lumpur

With so much to see and do, Malaysia´s massive multicultural metropolitan capital really does have something for everyone. Appearing to be almost endless, the city stretches away to the horizon, with domineering skyscrapers and the Petronas Towers reaching towards the heavens. With its infectious energy and plethora of attractions , wandering around its temples, mosques, shopping malls and busy markets is intoxicating.

Because it is home to a diverse population, Kuala Lumpur´s unique cultural heritage really does shine through. Colonial architecture is on show around Merdeka Square, while fantastic restaurants and cafes are spread throughout other neighborhoods such as Little India and Chinatown.

See also: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Old mixes with new, as this rapidly expanding city continues to grow. While modern developments spring up along the riverbanks, traditional Malay villages in the heart of the city – such as Kampong Bharu – still survive.

Map of cities in Malaysia

Share this post:

10 Best Beaches in Malaysia

10 Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia

10 Best Malaysia Beach Resorts

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Malaysia: DIY Itinerary

12 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

23 Top Tourist Attractions in Malaysia

12 Most Beautiful National Parks in Malaysia

10 Best Malaysian Islands You Should Visit

6 Most Beautiful Regions in Malaysia

15 Top Tourist Attractions in Langkawi, Malaysia

Reader interactions.

October 27, 2019 at 8:52 pm

HI thanks for featuring my home country. Semporna is not a city, it is a small town actually. You can promote Tawau as a city and it is also the main gateway to Semporna and surrounding islands. There are many thing to explore in Tawau too.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 55 Places To Visit In Malaysia

Places to See in Malaysia

Quick navigation, must places to visit in malaysia, petronas twin towers.

The twin skyscraper in Malaysia held the rank of the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004 and is currently known as the tallest twin tower in the world. The twin tower KL features diamond – faceted façade containing 83,500 stainless steel extrusions. The towers' interior highlights Malaysia's culture and inspires people through traditional aspects like carvings and fabric.

Top Experiences To Do in Petronas Twin Towers

Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable car is also known as the Sky Cab claims to be the steepest cable car ride in the world; that takes visitors at a height of 708 meters up in the sky, above the sea level. The cable car carries passengers to Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest peak and thus is considered as one of the must-visit Langkawi attractions. On a visit here, tourists are advised to carry a jacket as the elevation in height invites chilled winds. The views from the top of this peak make getting onto this ride absolutely worth it and memorable. Location: Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Kedah Timings: 9:30 am to 7 pm on all days Must Experience:  Snorkeling Tours in Langkawi Click Here to Book:  Langkawi Cable Car Tickets

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Situated at a staggering height of 2,170 feet and hanging in between the two mountains, the Langkawi sky bridge, as the name suggests, makes you witness Malaysian beauty from heavenly heights. You can reach this bridge after ending your sky cab ride, only to witness more enchanting views of the forests and mountains. Stretching up to 410 feet with transparent sections, this bridge gives you a rush of adrenaline with a feeling of almost standing in the sky!

Top Experiences To Do in Langkawi Sky Bridge

Discover Menara Kuala Lumpur, the iconic tower soaring above Kuala Lumpur's skyline. Admire the breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes from its observation deck. Uncover the architectural marvel and cultural significance of this landmark, a symbol of Malaysia's progress and modernity. A must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience the panoramic vistas and immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of Kuala Lumpur from the heights of Menara Kuala Lumpur.

Top Experiences To Do in Menara

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Beat the heat of Kuala Lumpur and hop in for an extraordinary experience at the magical theme park of Sunway Lagoon. With six different zones featuring thrilling bungee jumping rides to classic turbulence water slides, you are in for a treat. Experience the best of 5D cinematic movies at the waterpark and tune in for a gripping slingshot ride at x park lagoon. 

Top Experiences To Do in Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Aquaria KLCC

The Aquaria KLCC is said to be the world’s largest aquarium, holding over 5000 freshwater and marine creatures, which include massive arapaimas, giant groupers, garfishes and many more. Some of the major attractions of the aquarium are the scary tiger sharks, bright coral fishes, lethal sea snakes, seahorses, and blue rays.

The Aquaria KLCC is one of the foremost tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur involving the real depth and complexity. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia.

Location : The Aquaria KLCC is located on the concourse of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center.

Price : The entry fee approximately starts from 64 MYR for an adult and 53 MYR for a child. Check out Now:   Aquaria KLCC Ticket Price  

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Langkawi  

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a group of five different islands, which include Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug. There are various beach activities that the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park organizes. However, all these beach activities require a prior booking and it is one of the best places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

You can also indulge in various water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the beautiful coral and marine life of the island. The island tours can be booked on the spot from where you will take your ferries.

Location: The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is just 20 minutes boat ride from the Kota Kinabalu.

How To Reach: The Jesselton Jetty ferry terminal consistently operates the boats to the Island, which takes around 20 minutes to reach there.

Price: The approximate cost for the complete tour starts from 53 MYR per adult.

Timings: 8.30 AM to 5 PM Here is the List of  Best  Things to Do in Langkawi Suggested Read: Things to Do in Malaysia

Bako National Park, Kuching

Best of Thailand

Lost World of Tambun

Melaka Historic City

Cameron Highlands

Top Experiences To Do in Cameron Highlands

Langkawi Island

Batu Caves, Selangor

The Batu Caves is located in the Selangor region of Malaysia. It has one of the famous Hindu shrines. The shine is of Lord Murugan resides in these caves. A lot of tourists visit this place as it is a religious site. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerizing. 

This area has innumerable caves that are that are home to many species of animals and insects. This area has many monkeys that often snatch away things from the tourist. The caves are said to be of the 10th century that has slowly developed. The caves are protected by the Malaysian Nature Society. 

There are many transportation facilities available to these caves like trains buses etc from Kuala Lumpur.  The most famous festival of the Batu caves is Thaipusam festival. This is one of the ideal Hindu religious places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur. Click Here to Book:  Kuala Lumpur Suburbs and Batu Caves Day Tour  or  Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur Also Check: Best Beaches in Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi

Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak

Best of Bangkok

Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Pulau Perhentian Besar

Taman Negara, Pahang

Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak

The Perhentian Islands

Sungai Kinabatangan, Borneo Island

Penang Hill, Penang

Tioman Island

Sipadan Island

Best of Vietnam

Shangri-La's Orangutan Care Project, Kota Kinabalu

If you are a wildlife enthusiast and love exploring new places, which promote wildlife and its conservation, Shangri-La’s Orangutan Care Project is one that you cannot miss. The project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of Orangutans and it is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kota Kinabalu.

It allows the common people to get the deeper insights into the lives of these amazing creatures. You can spend quality time with the Orangutans, get very close to them and even take memorable snapshots.

During your tour, you will be acquainted about the lives of Orangutan through the short videos, both before and after the tour. After the video, you are escorted to the feeding platform, where you are allowed to feed these lovely Orangutans.

The complete duration of the tour is around 1-2 hours. The excitement of the tour burgeons especially when your children accompany with you. Apart from the Orangutans, you also get to see a few more varieties of monkeys inside the care project.

Location: The Orangutan Care Project is located at Pantai Dalit Tuaran in Kota Kinabalu.  You May Also Like:  Activities in Langkawi Click Here to Checkout & Book:  Hop on Hop off KL Price

Pangkor Island

Dataran Merdeka

Legoland Malaysia

Boh Plantation

Must Visit Places in Kuala Lumpur

National Mosque of Malaysia

Best of Singapore

Perdana Botanical Gardens

Islamic Arts Museum

Minnature Malaysia

KL Butterfly Park

Must Visit Places in Langkawi

Dataran lang.

Gunung Raya

Pulau Payar Marine Park

Langkawi Arts in Paradise 3D Museum

Best of Hong Kong

Pantai Kok Beach

Must Visit Places in Kota Kinabalu

Manukan island.

Masjid Bandaraya

Sabah State Museum

Atkinson Clock Tower

Satay Legend Lok Kawi

Must Visit Places in Penang

Arulmigu karumariamman temple.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Best of Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Panchor Forest Park

Clan Jetties

Must Visit Places in Ipoh

Bukit mertajam recreational forest.

KeK Lok Tong Cave Temple

Perak Cave Temples

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Ling Sen Tong Temple

People Also Ask About Malaysia

Which are the best tourist attractions in malaysia to visit at night, what are the best things to do in malaysia, what are the best places to visit in malaysia on honeymoon, which are the best camping places in malaysia, what is malaysia famous for, what are the best beaches in malaysia, what are the best areas to stay in malaysia, where should i go for 3 days in malaysia, is malaysia worth visiting, what are the famous things to buy in malaysia, how to reach malaysia, what is the most popular food in malaysia, what is the best time to visit malaysia.

Trending in Malaysia

Adventure in malaysia.

• Kota Kinabalu

• Kuala Lumpur

Water Sports in Malaysia

Malaysia Top Attractions

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

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

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

More Malaysia Attractions

Malaysia travel guides.

Malaysia Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Malaysia

More things to do in malaysia, more on malaysia tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!