Dive Into Malaysia

Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

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

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

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

Top 20 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia [2021]

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

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

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

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

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

malaysia holiday visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

visit Malaysia 2021 Langkawi island

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

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

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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malaysia holiday visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

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

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

malaysia holiday visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

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

Kuala Kangsar

malaysia holiday visit

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

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

Streets of Ipoh

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

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

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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

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

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

Click here for prices and online booking.

Cameron Highlands

Boh Tea Estate, Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

malaysia holiday visit

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

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

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

malaysia holiday visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

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

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

Legoland Malaysia The Great Lego Race VR Coaster

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

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

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

Juara Beach Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara Canopy Walk

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

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

Malaysia holiday destination 2021

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu, a city on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the best places Malaysia if you love good food, friendly locals and an interesting range of low key attractions, and you’re looking for places to visit in East Malaysia.

It’s also the jumping off point for beautiful Redang Island (coming up next as it’s also a best place to visit Malaysia).

There is an interesting Chinatown to visit complete with street art, some great museums and some magnificent mosques. What really stood out to me when I visited this best destination in Malaysia, however, is the friendly locals. I have never felt so welcome anywhere in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuala Terengganu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur but it’s also a major bus hub.

Top Attraction to visit : Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque (or Floating Mosque)

Top place to stay:  Grand Puteri Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices.

Click here to see our full guide to Kuala Terengganu..

Redang Island

Long Beach, Redang Island from Laguna Redang Malaysia visit places

A list of the most beautiful places in Malaysia often includes Redang Island, and it’s easy to see why. This is most simply, the most beautiful place I have ever visited, and unsurprisingly Redang was my best trip in Malaysia of recent years. 

Redang Island is a mix of pleasant resorts and pristine, white sand beaches. It makes for the perfect relaxing getaway and best tourist place in Malaysia. Several of my memories of the best travel in Malaysia are from here.

The main beach is Pasir Panjang (or Long Beach) and, located on the east side of the island, it is one of the popular holiday places in Malaysia for those visiting the east of the country.

While there’s not a whole lot to see if you aren’t a nature lover nor is there a big nightlife scene like some other islands in Malaysia, this is a best place to travel in Malaysia for a calm stay and for cheap, beautiful and easy snorkeling. If you love islands and beaches, then Redang is definitely one of the best place to travel in Malaysia!

Getting to Redang Island: You can get there by plane or boat. Several flights leave daily from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

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

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

malaysia holiday visit

An artificial lake located in Terengganu, Kenyir lake is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. This lesser known attraction in Malaysia has been developed as an ecotourism destination and the lake provides hydroelectric power to the region.

It’s also one of the top inland fishing destinations in Malaysia and a gateway to Taman Negara.

This interesting place in Malaysia has several attractions around the like the caves of Bewah and Taat as well as Anglers Heaven, jungle walks and waterfalls. Lake Kenyir Resort is also a pleasant place to stay.

To access the actual lake you’ll need to have a boat to access the lake which you can organise with a tour operator easily. A visit to this Malaysia travel place is the perfect way to see a different slice of Malaysia while enjoying nature.

Getting to Kenyir Lake: A 50 minute drive from Kuala Terengganu Airport. You can fly there from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

Top place to stay:  Lake Kenyir Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Perhentian Islands

resort long beach Perhentian

Less explored than Langkawi, but rated by many as the best holiday destination in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands offer serene beaches with crystal clear water.

These islands are a travel place in Malaysia that you won’t want to leave, and although there are no museums or culturally significant monuments, there are pristine beaches, crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs at the appropriately named Coral Bay with sunsets that’ll linger in your memories for a while after you do have to go home.

This is the ultimate place to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Malaysia. You can also go jungle trekking and do activities like kayaking.

Although there’s not much else to do on the island, its natural environment shows the best of Malaysia and it’s one of my personal best places to travel in Malaysia.

Getting to Perhentian Islands : You will need to take a boat there. The main ferry terminal is in Kuala Besut. Instructions are here.

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

Top place to stay:  Perhentian Island Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

Kampung Kraftangan, Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan, a conservative city on the east coast of the mainland.

This one of the Malaysia cities to visit is relatively laid back with some interesting places to visit like Istana Jahar, a 19th century royal residence, Istana Balai Besar or Grand Palace, as well as other museums and mosques.

There’s also a vibrant night market and street art scene. While Kota Bharu may not make it to top of the list for the top place to visit in Malaysia, spending a few hours or a couple of days in Kota Bharu allows you to see laid back Malaysian life – without the tourists – and it’s a useful stop over if you’re heading to Kuala Besut for the Perhentian islands as well.

The one of the best cities to visit in Malaysia offers visitors a chance to experience a different pace of life and to see the cultural heart of Malaysia. As such, it’s one of the interesting places to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kota Bharu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there, but you can also get there by train, bus and car.

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

Top place to stay:  Hotel Perdana – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

malaysia holiday visit

Kuching, also known as Cat City, is a port city located on the island of Borneo. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarawak, Borneo. The city is interesting yet still one of the more relaxing places to visit in Malaysia, so if you want to head to Borneo, why not give Kuching a try?

This charming city is abound with museums like the Sarawak Museum and Cat Museum (a must visit in Cat City!) and places of worship like Tua Pek Kong Temple.

It’s also located near some beautiful national parks like Bako National Park as well as Kubah National Park.

The range of activities to visit in the surrounds and the lovely riverfront area makes Kucking my pick for the best city to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuching: The best way to get to Kuching is to fly. Several budget airlines fly here.

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

Top place to stay:  Hilton Kuching – Click here to see the latest prices

Kota Kinabalu

Sunset in Kota Kinabalu

A quiet destination in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a pretty city on our Malaysia tourist places list offering visitors several attractions and activities.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the top places to visit in Malaysia to go island hopping – but think relaxation, not partying. Gaya Island is one of the most popular, as well as Manukan which is one of the islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands great for jungle trekking and diving.

In town, you can climb to Signal Hill Observatory to soak in the city sites and do some shopping at the local markets.

The access to beautiful beaches as well as nature treks make Kota Kinabalu a top destination in Malaysia Borneo. If you’re looking for the best place Malaysia to stop over en route to trekking and jungle exploration, consider stopping off in Kota Kinabalu.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu: The easiest way to get to Kota Kinabalu is by flying.

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

Top place to stay:  Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Borneo Orangutan in Sandakan, Sepilok, Sabah

Sandakan is a small option of where to go Malaysia with few attractions inside the town itself. However, it has huge historical significance from World War II. The Sandakan Memorial Park pays homage to this dark part of history.

The small museum and accompanying walk is dedicated to the prisoners of war from the Borneo Death Marches and commemorates those who lost their lives. This makes for a confronting memorial. While it’s not the most obvious of vacation places in Malaysia, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in history or are visiting to see the graves and memorials here.

The city itself has plenty of cheap markets and places to eat, and is a gateway to other significant attractions like the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, one of Malaysia famous places. Here, you can get up close to rescued orangutans who are being rehabilitated. There’s also the Turtle Islands Park.

Getting to Sandakan: Located on Borneo, the quickest way to get there is to fly.

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

Top place to stay:  Sabah Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices

Looking for the easiest way to get around Malaysia to these great places? Find our long-distance taxi service here . It can take you door-to-door anywhere in peninsular Malaysia.

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

We hope you found somewhere just right for you in this Malaysia tourism place list. Read more about other destinations in Malaysia or find the best time to visit Malaysia here or the best things to do here. Looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 2 – 4 days? Read our itineraries here  and find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here.

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By Sharon Gourlay

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

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

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The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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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

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Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary

Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary

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

A 2-week Malaysia itinerary

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

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

malaysia holiday visit

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

Malaysia route map travel guide

Day 1 – 2: Kuala Lumpur

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

Read: 15 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

malaysia travel guide kuala lumpur

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

See availability and tickets for a tour of Batu Caves

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

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

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur 😴

Tian Jing Hotel

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

malaysia travel route guide batu caves

Day 3 – 4: Malacca

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

Read: Two days in Malacca, things to do

things to do malacca murals kiehl melaka

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

Purchase your bus tickets here

Where to Stay in Malacca

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

Hotels in Malacca 😴

1825 Gallery Hotel

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

malacca jonker street

Day 5 – 6: Cameron Highlands

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

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

cameron highlands Jungle Trail Jim Thompson

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

Or purchase your bus tickets

cameron highlands resort tea plantations picnic

The Genting Highlands

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

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

Chin Swee Temple

How to get to Chin Swee Cave Temple 

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

Where to Stay in the Cameron Highlands

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

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

Hotels in Cameron Highlands 😴

Cameron Highlands Resort

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

genting highlands skyway

Day 7: Ipoh – An undiscovered Malaysia travel spot

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

Read more: Ipoh – Things to do

ipoh malaysia umbrella street

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

Get your bus tickets in advance

Where to Stay in Ipoh

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

Hotels in Ipoh 😴

M Boutique Ipoh

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

ipoh malaysia Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Day 8 – 10: Georgetown, Penang

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

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

Everything about Georgetown, Penang

things to do penang georgetown street art

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

Get your bus tickets

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

Where to Stay in Georgetown

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

Hotels in Georgetown 😴

Hotel Cheong Fatt Tze

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

things to do penang malaysia Kek Lok Si Temple

Day 11 – 14: Langkawi

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

Find out about all the things to do in Langkawi

things to do langkawi sunset cruise

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

Where to Stay in Langkawi

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

Hotels in Langkawi 😴

Cloud 9 Hotel

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

langkawi seven wells pools

Alternative Malaysia route options

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

Costs of traveling in Malaysia

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

Costs of Traveling in Malaysia

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

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

things to do malacca trishaw transport

How to get around in Malaysia

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

By public transport

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

Book your buses and trains here

langkawi ferry malaysia

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

train kuala lumpur penang

Best time to visit Malaysia

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

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

things to do penang Kek Lok Si Temple buddha

Do I need a Visa to travel to Malaysia?

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

Check here if you need a visa for Malaysia

Safety in Malaysia

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

Here’s how to:   find the right travel insurance

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

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

9 Best Things To Do in Langkawi (3-Day Travel Guide)

Best things to do in cameron highlands, malaysia, 11 best things to do in penang, malaysia (georgetown).

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

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

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

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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.

Skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city.

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)

A street art mural in Penang depicts two children reaching for baskets on a bicycle.

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.

Where to go in Malaysia: A temple set against a backdrop of limestone caves in Ipoh.

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 .

A distinctive golden building in Kuching, Malaysia.

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

A beautiful mosque in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

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.

Colonial architecture and colourful street vendors in Melaka, Malaysia.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: A tree set along the river in the city of Taiping.

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

Motorbikes parked outside a heritage building in Bukit Mertajam, Malaysia.

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

A beautiful mosque in Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia - a day trip from Ipoh.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: The beautiful Putra Mosque in Putrajaya set over the water.

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.

A huge golden statue of a Hindu deity at the Batu Caves in Malaysia.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Colourful lanterns and architecture at Kek Lok Si Temple on Penang island.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Tea fields in Malaysia's Cameron Highlands.

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

A rainforest boardwalk in Taman Negara, Malaysia.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Rocky peaks inside Gunung Mulu National Park.

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

A small town set at the foot of a dramatic mountain peak.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: An orang-utan in the treetops in Danum Valley.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: A lake surrounded by forest in Gua Tempurung.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: the skywalk through the forest on Langkawi island.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Sunset on the beach at Port Dickson.

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

A long jetty reaches into the ocean on Malaysia's Sipadan Island.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: A beachside cafe in Malaysia's Perhentian Islands.

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Clear water and towering palm trees on Tioman Island in Malaysia.

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

People eating and drinking at a poolside bar in Sepang, Malaysia.

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

Bavarian-style architecture in Berjaya Hills, an interesting place to visit in Malaysia.

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!

30 of the best places to visit in Malaysia for culture, history, nature and beaches. Decide where to go in Malaysia and start planning your dream trip!

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this excellent post!

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

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

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

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

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

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The best Malaysia holiday destinations: Where to stay and when to travel

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Southeast Asian country Malaysia is a travel destination offering turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, rainforests, mountains, historical landmarks and cultural diversity. It’s spread across the island of Borneo and the Malay Peninsula, and the population is made up of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures.

From snorkelling off Redang Island and exploring the Cameron Highlands to visiting cosmopolitan capital city Kuala Lumpur, there’s a long list of things to see and do during a holiday to Malaysia. Plus, both George Town and Malacca are Unesco World Heritage Cities.

Whether you’d like a relaxing break, are looking to partake in some water sports or fancy immersing yourself in the local cuisine at one of the country’s night markets, we’ve rounded up a list of must-visit holiday destinations.

Keep scrolling to find out when to travel and where to stay to inspire your next trip to Malaysia.

Read more on Asia travel :

  • Best Thailand holiday destinations
  • Asia’s most cycling-friendly cities
  • Best hotels in the Maldives

Penang Island

Penang Island is located just off the Malay Peninsula and is home to state capital city and Unesco World Heritage City George Town. Originally a British trading port, today there’s street art to spot among colourful colonial houses and historical buildings, including Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower and the Town Hall. The city’s cuisine combines Chinese, Indian and Malay options, as well as European influences. Penang in home to multiple mosques and temples, such as the beautifully adorned Buddhist place of worship Kek Lok Si Temple in Air Itam. Also on the island is a tropcial butterfly farm, Penang National Park and resort beaches Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah.

When to visit Penang Island

November to January is an ideal time to visit Penang Island, as it’s after the monsoon season. While you can still expect daily rainfall, the island has a tropical climate and average daily temperatures during this time are around 31C.

Where to stay

Muntri Grove  offers understated luxury in tastefully decorated rooms with four-poster beds, local artwork and cosy seating areas. A small rooftop pool and central location complete guests’ experience at the hotel situated just 800m from Prangin Mall in the heart of George Town.

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Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, kuala lumpur.

Cosmopolitan Malaysian capital city Kuala Lumpur has a skyline packed with a whopping 455 high-rise buildings, including the tallest twin towers in the world. The Petronas Twin Towers are 451 metres tall and join another impressive skyscraper, Merdeka 118, which is named after its 118 storeys and has a height of 678 metres. Both can be accessed by the public for a panoramic view of the city. Meanwhile, the KLCC Park is an open space to explore, with a light and fountain show each evening. Also at night is the Jalan Alor Food Street market, for local cuisine and a buzzing atmosphere.

When to visit Kuala Lumpur

Head to Kuala Lumpur during December-January for average daily temperatures of 23-27C, or from June-August for 24-30C. You’ll avoid the monsoon season at these times of year, and several popular festivals including Good Vibes, Muse and the Kuala Lumpur Photography Festival take place in the summer months too.

City-view apartments at  Ascott Star KLCC  boast a rooftop pool, lush gardens and spacious rooms just minutes from the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC shopping mall.

Redang Island

Known locally as Pulau Redang, the island boasts turquoise sea and white sand and hosts several beach resorts on its eastern stretch. It’s famous for having a rich marine life and there are 3,000 kinds of fish and 500 coral reef varieties to snorkel amongst at spots such as Long Beach. From here, you can explore a walking trail to Teluk Dalam, which goes through a jungle where macaques, monkeys and lizards live. The popular tropical spot is one of the largest off the Malay Peninsula’s east coast, and Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary is on the island’s north side too.

When to visit Redang Island

The best time to visit Redang Island is between April and August because resorts are generally closed during the winter months when the monsoon season occurs. The daily temperatures are around 25-32C during these months, and there’s less rain past May.

Off the coast of Terengganu, The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort offers luxury suites, four dining options and ocean views from private balconies. A 1.5-hour ferry ride from Shahbandar Jetty awaits guests staying at the spacious resort.

Malacca, which is also known as Melaka, is on Unesco’s World Heritage List and has unique red buildings made from iron-rich rock laterite. The city’s centre is known as Dutch Square, because of the inspiration for these 17th-18th century buildings, including Christ Church and the Stadthuys structure. The Melaka Art Gallery and the Malaysia Youth Museum are found in this part of the city too. Malacca is also home to Malaysia’s oldest temple, Cheng Hoon Teng. For shopping, there’s Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall, and the night market on Jonker Street serves up local street food.

When to visit Malacca

April, May and October are the driest months to visit Malacca, with daily temperatures reaching up to 32C during each month.

The clean and comfortable Pines Melaka hotel overlooking the Malacca skyline is stylish and has varied dining options and leisure facilities including a saltwater pool. A stay includes a rainshower, premium toiletries and, in some rooms, direct pool access.

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is a lush expanse of greenery in Pahang. The hills include a tea plantation, valley, forest and mountains Irau and Batu Brinchang. The area’s wildlife includes frogs, toads, snakes and birds, and you can see an array of flowers at Cameron Flora Park. Several restaurants in the area offer afternoon tea with a spectacular view. Base town Tanah Rata is popular for exploring the district from, with Cameron Highlands’ highest point being an incredible 2,000 metres above sea level.

When to visit Cameron Highlands

Monsoon season lands between November and February, although there is rainfall all year round. The year-round daily temperature is 23-25C, with March being the hottest month.

If world-class service, an outdoor pool and large private rooms are what you long for in a hotel,  Zenith Cameron  should fit the bill.

Langkawi Island

If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday, Langkawi is a scenic island with clear waters and stretches of white sandy beach. Just 15km long and 20km wide, you can survey the island’s scenery by walking across the dramatic Sky Bridge. Resort town Pantai Cenang is a popular place to enjoy water sports like jet skiing, and there’s also a duty-free shopping centre there. Massive aquarium Underwater World is nearby too.

When to visit Langkawi Island

It’s dry season from November to April, which is a good time to go. The hottest month to visit Langkawi Island is February, where you’ll enjoy average daily temperatures of 29C compared to the only slightly lower 27C seen in the coldest month, July.

Bargain bed and breakfast stays at  Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang  offer guests a comfortable night’s sleep just five minutes’ walk from Cenang Beach. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, gardens and buffet breakfasts wrapped up with friendly staff and great local amenities.

Malaysian city Kuching is the capital of Sarawak state, and it has a vast waterfront esplanade, stretching for 900 metres across the Sarawak River. Dive into Kuching’s history at the Sarawak Museum and tuck into local delicacies on Food Street. Both Semenggoh Nature Reserve and Kubah National Park are a 30-minute drive from the city in opposite directions, while Damai Beach is 45-minutes away. Plus, there’s an international airport just outside Kuching too.

When to visit Kuching

A good time to visit Kuching is from April to October, as these are the months with the least rainfall. Average daily temperatures are around 32C during this time.

Pullman Kuching is the ultimate elegant stay in the Sarawak state. Modern rooms are fitted with spacious en-suites, minibars and air conditioning, with a buffet breakfast and area shuttles complimentary to a stay.

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Travel Blog

42 Places To Visit In Malaysia For The Most Exotic Vacation

With this list of best places to visit in Malaysia , get ready to experience an exceptional vacation. Adorned by the fascinating wonders of nature, there are turquoise beaches under the clear vast sky, the architecture defined by the skyscrapers and vintage art. The bustling cities here exhibit the vibrant lifestyle, and there are offbeat destinations which are wild and house diverse biodiversity. It is the romantic streets and the tranquility of the country that lures the vacationers to discover this tropical destination. The honeymoon resorts, lodges, luxury accommodation of Malaysia offers leisure while you admire the new attractions of Malaysia.    

Top 42 Tourist Attractions In Malaysia

Discover the attraction and hotspots that make Malaysia one of the most visited vacation destinations. From cities like Kuala Lumpur to islands like Perhentian Islands, one can experience a great diversity of culture here. So, before you plan your holiday in Malaysia, “Truly Asia”, here are the best-picked places that you can add to your itinerary.

1. Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur

Adorned with the massive skyline of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is one destination that defines the multicultural beauty of this country. Housing a diverse population in its modern rustic city, the tourist attractions in Malaysia are vast, endless and magnificent. There are temples, mosques, busy market places and other attractions that make this city one of the most visited and popular cities in Malaysia.

The colonial-era influenced the art and heritage of the city that one can observe in the structure of Merdeka Square. While the town managed to develop as one of the metropolitans of Malaysia, the villages like Kampong Bharu here still beholds the tradition and ethnicity. The cafes and restaurants in the modernized streets lure the tourist with their vibrant and enthralling aura, making it the best place to stay during vacation in Malaysia .

Being a popular holiday destination, Kuala Lumpur houses some magnificent attractions where you can spend the most enthralling break . These hotspots of the city are not just scenic, but you can find shopping centers, heritage sites and historical amusements that attract people from all walks of life.

When to Visit: May to July and December to February

How to Reach:

  • By Air: Flights are available from almost every corner of the world to reach Kuala Lumpur. The Kuala Lumpur International Airport lies towards the south of 50 km from the city center.
  • By Road: Kuala Lumpur is connected via road with cities like Singapore and Penang. Pudu Sentral and Pekeliling Bus Terminal are main bus terminals here while transportation like cab and taxi are easily available for travel in Malaysia , Kuala Lumpur. With the East Coast Expressway and the North-South Expressway, the road connectivity here is smooth and well-maintained.
  • By Railway: With an active railway system, connectivity to many international cities and the domestic city is there at KL Sentral Railway Station of Kuala Lumpur. The KTM Komuter trains, Kuala Lumpur monorail, Rapid KL Light Rail Transit and Light rail transit system offers easy traveling facilities.

Ideal duration: 3 nights 4 days

Nearest Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport

Popular attractions: Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang, Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), Petronas Twin Tower, KL Tower (Menara KL), KL Bird Park, Islamic Arts Museum, Sultan Abdul Samad Building

Things to do: Bird watching at Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, Scuba diving in Aquaria KLCC, Shopping in Central Market, a food tour of Alor Street, learning the history at Istana Negara

Adventures to try: Go-karting and G-Force X in Sunway Lagoons, Hiking in Bukit Tabur, Shark diving at Aquaria KLCC, White water rafting in Kuala Kubu Bahru.

Best places to stay: Capri By Fraser, Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside Hotel, PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur, Fraser Place Kuala Lumpur, Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur City Center, Pacific Regency Hotel Suites

Best shopping markets: Petaling Street, Central Market, Kampung Baru Market, Kasturi Walk, Chow Kit Market, Batik Boutique, Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC Mall, myBatik

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In February In The World To Enjoy Your Vacation

2. Malacca (Melak)

Malacca (Melak)

One of the significant Malaysia attractions, the Malacca or locally called Melak is an illustrative look of Malaysia and its history. The rich heritage of the Colonial era and the architecture defining the past narrates the folklore of invasion by the British, Dutch and Portuguese who also influenced the food, language and art. Today, the city has all the ruins of the periods that left a significant impact on the culture and art of Malaysia. Since centuries, nothing has changed much about the architecture of the city. There are some of the best hotels in Malaysia that features the finest architecture and elegant deign. Those cherry-red façades over the forts are presents here from the time they were introduced to the art of this city.

Experience a great diversity here with the communities and the traditions they follow here. The fascinating landscape is dominated by the rivers and forts, overlooking the Malaysian Skyline. Once, it was one of the port cities that connects the traders of South Asia and Europe to the then kingdom of Malay. Today, this has become one of the major historical places to go in Malaysia that draws people to discover its widespread culture and diverse architecture. With the unique buildings and vibrant heritage, this is listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When to Visit: November to January

How to reach:

  • By air: The only flight connecting Malacca to the rest of the world is Malacca International Airport. The Kuala Lumpur International Airport is 144 km from the city center and will take one to two hours to reach.
  • By Road: The North-South Expressway connects Malacca to other domestic and international destinations. Buses are available from Kuala Lumpur and countries like Singapore that will drop you off at Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal.
  • By Railways: The Pulau Sebang, located on the KL-Johor Bahru line is the nearest railway station, at 45 km. Taxis and buses are easily available in the city, to reach the major terminals and other Malaysia attractions .

Ideal duration: 2 nights 3 days

Nearest Airport: Malacca International Airport

Popular attractions: Christ Church Malacca, Jonker Walk, Duck Tours, Stadthuys and Clock Tower, Klebang Beach, St Paul’s Church, Swiss Garden Rooftop, A Famosa Fort, Malacca River, Menara Taming Sari, Maritime Museum

Things to do: City tour of Stadthuys, Visit Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple, Shopping at Jonker walk night market, Explore the Saint Paul’s Church, Malacca River cruise, visit Prison Museum, Dining at Jalan Kee Ann.

Best places to stay: Rucksack Caratel, 1825 Gallery Hotel, Modern Cave Boutique Stay, Rosa Malacca, The Majestic Malacca, The Settlement Hotel, Courtyard @ Heeren Boutique Hotel, The Settlement Hotel

Best Shopping Market: Dataran Pahlawan shopping mall, Freeport A’Famosa Outlet, Jonker Street, Mahkota Parade, Medan Samudera Craft Centre, Hatten Square Suites and Shoppes

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Nepal That Should Be In Your Itinerary

Borneo

It is the wilderness that makes Borneo one of the best tourist attractions in Malaysia. The green rainforests and the extensive coastline makes it one of the third-largest islands of the world where one can discover an abundance of flora and fauna. The rare and native species of plant and animal life makes Borneo an attraction that is unique and distinct from other concrete cities.

Embrace the diversity with the magnificent wildlife that includes the Orangutan, Irrawaddy dolphin, leopard, elephant and the crocodiles dwelling in saltwater lakes. From the birdlife to marine and reptiles, Borneo is a habitat for the largest wilderness of Malaysia. Talking about the cultural attractions, an array of native culture, distinguished on the bases of their lifestyle and language can be discovered here. There are heritage sites and off-beat places that make the city one of the bets Malaysia holiday destinations . One can experience the hospitality of the locals by visiting their house and staying overnight with them. Boren is one of the best places to stay in Malaysia if you are a nature lover and willing to embrace the culture and ethnic beauty.

This fusion of diverse ethnic group has made Borneo a paradise for food lovers. The authentic culinary delights of Malaysia here present the real zest. You can taste the seafood freshly made at Chinese restaurants and the smoky cuisines made at the eateries inspired by Indonesia.

Best time to visit: March to October

  • By air: The main airports at Borneo are Kuching (Sarawak) and Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) Airports where flights from Kuala Lumpur and other destination arrive. There are airstrips in other regions like Sibu, Miri, Bintulu, Lahad and Labuan Datu for the natives living there.
  • By Road: The Trans-Borneo highway is connecting the city to other best places to go in Malaysia. Further development of road and highway is being carried out continuously for better connectivity.
  • By waterways: Land transport is limited with no railway network in Borneo while rivers are used as the major commuting source by the locals and tourists. Boats and ferry rides are used by all to transportation or export of goods.

Ideal duration: 5 to 10 days

Nearest Airport: Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Popular attractions: Kota Kinabalu, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Ranau, Mount Kinabalu, Danum Valley Conservation Area, Sandakan, Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Mantanani Islands, Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Things to do: Explore the rain forest, encounter with Orangutan, beach leisure in Tiny Mamutik Island, wildlife watching in Kinabatangan River, cultural experience in Iban longhouse

Adventures to try: Scuba diving at Perhentian Islands, Hiking in Mount Kinabalu, Trekking in Sarawak, Wildlife safari in Sandakan, Cruise in the Kinabatangan River.

Best places to stay: The Loft Imago, ibis Balikpapan, Swiss-Belinn Singkawang, Mercure Banjarmasin, Midtown Hotel Samarinda, Swiss-Belhotel Balikpapan, Nanga Sumpa Stylish, Ulu Ulu Resort

Best shopping markets: Pasar Gadong, Sarawak Plaza, ARTrageously Ramsay Ong, Kota Kinabalu’s Central Market, Jalan Gaya

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In March In The World To Experience Balmy Weather

4. George Town

George Town

With the chaotic streets and the vibrant marketplace, George Town is one of the famous Malaysia tourist places where there is a huge diversity of culture and architecture. The city presents a fusion of distinct art and heritage with its urban zest making it a mystical attraction for every traveler. Every corner of the city is adorned by the fancy eateries, handicrafts, spices and more that even makes it one of the best honeymoon places in the world .

It is a popular attraction, known to be the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia. The George Town overlooks the mosques and the ancient temples that are inspired by the architecture of the Colonial period. The galleries here exhibit the murals and art of the bygone era while the cafes offer an enthralling taste of Malaysian cuisines along with the dishes picked from the Chinese and Indonesian menus.

What makes George Town one of the best places to visit in Malaysia is the unique skyscrapers and the unusual buildings where you can discover a lot about history. With the botanical gardens housing the rare plant life and the museum housing artefacts since centuries, this town of Malaysia is a blend of contemporary city life.

Best time to visit: February, June and July

  • By air: To reach George Town via flights, one need to deboard at Kuala Lumpur international airport or the Penang International Airport and travel via a ferry. Local road transfers life buses and taxis are available for reaching George from other domestic destinations.
  • By waterways: Ferry rides are the most commonly used alternative for reaching the island of Penang. One can board a ferry from Raja Tun Uda terminal on Weld Quay and from there, cabs can heir abs and taxis for exploring this island while you travel in Malaysia.

Nearest Airport: Penang International Airport at 16km.

Popular attractions: Penang Hill, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Khoo Kongsi, Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Penang Botanic Gardens, Chulia Street, Kek Lok Si, Kuan Yin Temple, Gurney Plaza, Clan Jetties, Kapitan Keling Mosque

Things to do: Visit the Limestone Caves, Explore the temples, Visit the art galleries, Attend the cultural fests, Get some photos at Penang Interactive Museum, Discover the Clan Jetties.

Best places to stay: Areca Hotel Penang, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, SAVV HOTEL, The Prestige Hotel Penang, Macalister Hotel by PHC, Victoria Garden Hotel, Magazine Vista Hotel by PHC

Best shopping markets: Lorong Kulit Flea Market, Komtar, Prangin mall, Cecil Street Market, Pulau Tikus Market

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In April In The World: To Feel The Bliss Of Vacation & Festivities

5. The Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands

Talking about the best places to go to in Malaysia, Perhentian Island is famous for its beaches and water adventures. The island jungles here are home to a plethora of wilderness while the clear sea houses the diverse marine life.

Perhentian Island lies towards the northern side of Malaysia made from two islands groups called Kecil and Besar. Island hopping is the best way to explore both the attractions of Perhentian. There are speed boats and ferries available for day trips and round trip. Offering activities like snorkeling, diving, swilling and other beach games, the island is an adventure hub to engage you on your holidays. While attraction here is limited but the natural vistas of the land space is blessed with the breathtaking sights and viewpoints.

One can find a large number of backpacker accommodation while some beach resorts here offer a luxurious vacation. The Perhentian Besar is usually sparsely crowded and is known as one of the best tourist places in Malaysia for families. For nightlife, entertainment and thrill, the small Perhentian Kecil is perfect where you can find the best accommodation, café and other facilities.

Best time to visit: April to September

  • By air: The Kota Bharu airport is the nearest international airport to the Perhentian island. The best way to reach the destination by air is to board a flight for Kota Bharu or the Kuala Lumpur international airport and later board a bus or ferry to reach the island.
  • By road: Buses for Perhentian island is available from the Kuala Lumpur city in Malaysia. Taxis are available from Kota Bharu to Kuala Besut Jetty from where one can get a ferry to cover the remaining distance.
  • By waterways: Ferry and speed boat is one of the convenient ways to reach this Malaysia tourist spots . The ferries and speed boats are available from Kuala Besut Jetty, that will drop you at the Perhentian island of Malaysia.

Ideal duration: 3 to 5 days

Nearest Airport: Kota Bharu airport at 64 km.

Popular attractions: Long Beach, Coral Bay, Redang Island, Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Kecil, Laguna Redang Island Resort, Mosque A R Rahman Pulau, Teluk Keke Beach, Kampung Pasir Hantu

Things to do: Observe the Turtles in Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Volunteer in The Perhentian Turtle Project, leisure at the Perhentian Island Resort, Day tour of Redang Island, Explore the Fishing Village.

Adventures to try: Scuba Diving in Pulau Lang Tengah, Snorkelling in Perhentian Kecil, Sea Kayaking at Besar, Camping at Teluk KK, Hike to Coral Bay

Best places to stay: Perhentian Island Resort Beach, Permata Guesthouse, Bubu Villa, Perhentian Tuna Bay Island Resort, Bubbles Dive Centre and Resort, Coral View Island Resort, Eco Marine Perhentian Island Resort

Best shopping markets: Chill Out Cafe & Craft

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Philippines For A Breathtaking Experience

malaysia holiday visit

One of the most popular tourist places in Malaysia is worth visiting during your Holidays. Penang Island is located on the northwestern coast and houses a vast history of George Town. While there are attractions like colonial architecture and the shrines, the Chinese temples and markets, the culinary experience can never be missed. Try out the best cuisines served at the food outlets like dim sum and more. The attraction flaunts a vibrant array of traditions, culture and art in its lively streets.

Best time to visit: November to January

  • By air: The Penang International Airport is served by various international and domestic flights, making it easy to travel in Malaysia . There are direct and interconnecting flights available from countries like India and other Asian countries.
  • By road: Penang is connected with the significant Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur by an active road network. There are buses and cabs available for an easy commute. The Sungai Nibong is the central bus station in Penang.
  • By waterways: The boats and ferries serve the best way to reach Penang from Langkawi. The ships will be departing from the Jetty Point and will arrive at Swettenham Harbor in Penang Island.

Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days

Nearest Airport: Penang International Airport

Popular attractions: The Habitat Penang Hill, TeddyVille Museum, The Habitat Penang Hill, Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Batu Ferringhi Beach, Batu Ferringhi Beach, The Floating Mosque, City Hall

Things to do: Food Tour in Penang, Explore the Street Murals Of Penang, Discover the History of Fort Cornwallis, Wander around the temples, Observe the Craftmanship at Goddess Of Mercy Temple.

Adventures to try: Hike Up the Penang Hill, Trek to Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple, Experience the Highest Rope Course in the World

Best places to stay: By the sea Beach BABY, RumahKu Georgetown, Landmark Seaview Gurney, Tony’s Guesthouse at Teluk Bahang, By the Sea- Pool and Sea View

Best shopping markets: 1st Avenue Mall, Queensbay Mall, Gurney Paragon, Gurney Plaza, Prangin Mall

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7. Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu in Sabah might not be a popular destination but is definitely one of the best places to visit in Malaysia . Sabah's capital city is dominated by the malls and the high building offering you a leisurely holiday to experience in Malaysia. What the destination prowls the long serene sealine, hidden behind the luxury and grandeur of skyscrapers. As you discover the wonders of Kora Kinabalu, admire the most scenic sunset from the Tanjung Aru Beach or stroll around the five magnificent islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

How to reach:  

  • By air: Kota Kinabalu International Airport is the city's primary airport that connects Kota Kinabalu with other domestic and international destinations. The airport is at a distance of 7km from the city center.
  • By road: The South Bus Terminal and North Bus Terminal are the two main terminals making it easy to reach Kota Kinabalu from other Malaysia attractions .
  • By waterways: There are ferries available from Labuan dock, Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal that offers an easy channel to reach Kota Kinabalu.

Popular attractions: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Mount Kinabalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village, Sabah State Museum, Atkinson Clock Tower, Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu Waterfront

Things to do: River Safari at Klias River, Stroll around Chinatown, Enjoy Borneo Railway Ride, Admire the City's Charm from Signal Hills Observatory Platform, Discover the Wildlife at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.

Adventures to try: Hike Mount Kinabalu, White Water Rafting at Kiulu River in Tamparuli, Water Adventure at Tanjung Aru Beach, Swimming or Diving at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Best places to stay: Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu, The Pacific Sutera, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, The Magellan Sutera Resort

Best shopping markets: Imago Shopping Mall, Night Market, Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market, Kota Kinabalu City Waterfront

Suggested Read: Striking Places To Travel in Bahrain For An Enriching Travel Experience

8. Pangkor Island

Pangkor Island

Pangkor Island is one of the most popular and scenic places to visit in Malaysia for an exciting holiday. The island houses a group of three small picturesque islands, Pangkor Laut, Pulau Mentagor en Pulau Giam, where the best resorts for your ideal stay in Malaysia. Adding to its beauty and magnificence, the landscape here is dramatic with the long coats and mountains rising to a height of 1216 meters. The beaches here are best for all your adventure and thrill while the luxury properties set along the seashores offer utmost leisure and comfort to the guests arriving here.

Best time to visit : All Year Round Destination

  • By air: Ipoh Airport is the nearest airport to Pangkor Island that is served by flights from Singapore twice a week. One can board a flight to Penang or Kuala Lumpur and commute through bus, train, or car.
  • By road: One can board a bus operated by Transnasional Coach Services from major cities and get down at Lumut connected by the island through ferry or jetty.
  • By waterways:  Jetty's and ferries are available from Lumut. The first jetty service stars from 7:30 am, and the last service is available at 08:30 pm. The ride takes 45 min to reach.

Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport: Pangkor Airport

Popular attractions: Foo Lin Kong Temple, Kali Amman Temple, Dutch Fort, Tiger Rock, Sungai Pinang Besar, Sungai Pinang Kecil, Kampong Teluk Kecil, Turtle Beach

Adventures to try: Trek to Bukit Pangkor, Beach Adventures and fun like Snorkeling, Diving, Swimming, Motor Bikes, Canoeing, Fishing

Best places to stay: AVI Pangkor Beach Resort, Pangkor Sandy Beach Resort, Coral Bay Resort, Joe Fisherman Inn, Pangkor Holiday Resort, Vikri Beach Resort

Suggested Read: Beautiful Islands In Oman To Kiss The Natural Beauty Of Nature

9. Tioman Island

Tioman Island

The Pulau Tioman or known popularly as Tioman Island is another Malaysia holiday destinations where you could enjoy a scenic escape to tranquility. Lying towards the southeastern Coast of Malaysia Peninsula, the island is home to an abundance of marine life, untouched beaches and wilderness. The island is dominated by dense forests, villages and coral reefs that add to its panorama lure tourists worldwide. Planning your vacation in Malaysia , the island has listed the finest resorts and lodges boasting of some captivating serenity and heartwarming hospitality, making it one of the best honeymoon destination in Asia .

Best time to visit : June and July

  • By air: There is no international airport in Pulau Tioman, but travelers can fly to Kuala Lumpur or Singapore and commute the remaining distance through buses or ferries.
  • By road: Tioman Island is connected with Singapore or other places to go in Malaysia via a good road network. There are buses available to Mersing from cities like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru.
  • By waterways:  Mersing serves as the gateway to the Tioman island offering ferries and jetty rides for reaching the island.

Ideal duration:  3 to 4 days

Nearest Airport: N/A

Popular attractions: Paya Beach, Renggis Inland, Juara Turtle Beach, Panuba Beach, Genting Village, Mukut Village, Marine Park Information Centre, Monkey Beach

Things to do: Surfing at Juara Beach, Hiking the Mukut Waterfall, Fishing in Tioman Island, Snorkelling in Salang, diving on Tioman Island, Climb Up Mount Kajang, Kayaking at Salang, Trek from Trek Village

Best places to stay: Tioman Dive Resort, Bushman Tioman, Marina Bay Resort & Restaurant, Paya Beach Spa & Dive Resort, Juara Mutiara Resort

Suggested Read: Beaches in Bahrain For Your Holiday Needs And Comfort

10.  Selangor

Selangor

Selangor, listed as the best popular tourist attractions in Malaysia , is among the most populated and developed region. With the flourishing streets, the market places, shopping malls and other attractions, Selangor offers tourist the most exciting holiday mood. Not just the urbanized sectors, Selangor hold popularity for the amusement and theme parks, the Zoo and wildlife, and diverse natural habitat. The destination is well connected by airways and road transport, making it an ideal place to discover Malaysia's beauty and specter.

Best time to visit: June and July

  • By air: The Kuala Lumpur International Airport the primary international airport serving connectivity to Selangor Malaysia.
  • By road: Buses are operating from other Malaysia attractions like Kuala Lumpur to the Integrated Bus Terminal at Bandar Tasik Selatan in Selangor.
  • By Train :  The Express Rail Link, KLIA Transit Station, the Stesen Komuter KTM Bandar Tasik Selatan and the Bandar Tasik Selatan LRT Station are served Komuter train for reaching the destination.

Popular attractions: Sasaran Beach, Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Paya Indah wetlands, Sri Shakti Temple, Chiling Waterfall, Altingsburg Lighthouse, Melawati Fort

Things to do: Bukit Melawati Tram Ride, Explore the Batu Caves, Spend a day in Kampung Kuantan Firefly Park, Discover wildlife at Zoo Negara,

Adventures to try: Adventure rides in Sunway Lagoon, Explore Dark Cave Malaysia, Trek the trails of FRIM -Forest Research Institute of Malaysia

Best places to stay: Hilton Petaling Jaya, Dorsett Grand Subang Hotel, Sheraton Petaling Jaya Hotel, Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences, Genting Highlands, One World Hotel

Best shopping markets: Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall, Utama Shopping Centre, Paradigm Mall, Center-I City

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11. Langkawi Island

Langkawi Island

One of those places to visit in Malaysia in 5 days , the Langkawi island is a paradise for travelers and ensures that one gets the most out of a vacation in Malaysia . With a vast stretch of sandy beaches, blue waters, and top of the line views, the Langkawi island is perfect as far as attractions are concerned. One can even find the famous Langkawi Geopark here which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every year, thousands of visitors come to the Geopark to catch a glimpse of the geological heritage of the place.

Best Time To Visit - Between November and April

How To Reach -

  • By Air: Travelers can take a flight to the international airport nestled in Langkawi which is about 20 kilometers away from the nearby town of Kuah and 8 kilometers from Pantai Cenang
  • By Road: Travelers can take an on-road journey from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi without any hassle.

Ideal Duration - 7 to 10 days

Nearest Airport - Langkawi International Airport about 25 minutes away

Popular Attractions - Dataran Lang, Langkawi Sky Bridge, Langkawi Cable Car, Gunung Raya, Underwater World, Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise, Paradise 3D Museum

Best Places To Stay - Sunset Valley Holiday Houses, The Ocean Residence Langkawi, Seabreeze Seaview Villa, Villa Paddy, Bambu Getaway, Langkawi, The Villa - Private Pool WOW Holiday Homes

Best Shopping Markets - Teow Soon Huat, Zon Shopping Paradise, Jetty Point Complex, Cenang Mall, Atma Alam Batik Village, Coco Valley

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12. Perhentian Island

Perhentian Island

Nestled just 19 KM away from northwest Malaysia and one of those places to visit in Malaysia with family, the Perhentian Island is another heavenly hamlet that promises a wide range of activities that range from fun activities to leisure and much more. Featuring its colorful corals and shallow crystal-clear water near the coast, the place is regarded as perfect when it comes to planning a vacation with your friends. One can head over to the beach to have a relaxing time or catch a glimpse of the marine park here which is one of the main highlights of the place. It is an island where visitors come with an intention to have fun and spend some relaxing time.

Best Time To Visit - March to November

  • By Road: Travelers planning to go to Perhentian Island can take a bus to Kuala Besut from any popular location in Malaysia and cover the rest of the journey by ferry.
  • By Air: Travelers can fly to Kuala Lumpur and cover the rest of the journey to Perhentian Island by road and then ferry.

Ideal Duration - 5 days

Nearest Airport - Kota Bharu Airport

Popular Attractions - Petani Beach, Teluk Dalam, Turtle Sanctuary Beach, Kincir Angin, Coral Bay

Best Places To Stay - Tuna Bay Island Resort, Suhaila Palace, Bubu Resort, Perhentian Chomel Chalet, Alunan Resort, The Barat Perhentian

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13. Manukan Island

Manukan Island

The second-largest island in Malaysia, Manukan Inland is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Malaysia . It is the marine national park that makes it an ideal attraction for every family trip. The island, with its breathtaking beauty, attracts travelers while the adventures and extreme water sport is all you need to add more thrill to your vacations. With its unusual boomerang shape, the Manukan Inland also houses the white shady beaches along the crystal-clear waters.

It is the colonies of colorful corals that make it one popular spot for scuba diving. The rocks and the diverse marine life, the natural habitat, everything about Manukan Island makes it just the right place for your holiday. There is a rich diversity around where you can see various bird species and vegetation. The island offers facilities like chalets and resorts, restaurants, a clubhouse, and a diving center. There are restaurants where you can even eat some of the most tempting seafood at this famous Malaysia attraction .

How to reach: From Kuala Lumpur airport, board a flight to Kota Kinabalu and head towards the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. As you reach Jesselton Point at the park, there are boat tickets to Manukan Island Sabah available for your journey.

Ideal duration: 1 day

Popular attractions: N/A

Things to do: Snorkeling and Diving, Beach games, swimming, Volleyball, boat rides

Best places to stay: Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Manukan Island, The Pacific Sutera Hotel - Sutera Harbor Resort

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14. Bako National Park

Bako National Park

Looking for a relaxing place to visit in Malaysia , well, Bako National Park is one of the most serene destinations that is blessed with the captivating beauty of nature. The rainforest in Malaysia is home to an abundant wilderness, where you can find exotic species of flora and fauna.

Housing 150 rare monkeys and other exotic animals that include proboscis, lizards, and other reptiles. Tours are organized for the visitors to explore and witness the wilderness of Bako National Park.

Bako is the oldest national reserve in Sarawak that was marked as a protected area in 1957. While it is the smallest national park in the region, it is the beauty and diversity that still make it a most scenic place to visit. There are waterfalls, beaches, trekking trails, and every fascinating beauty of nature that makes it perfect to be on the list of best places to visit in Malaysia. You can plan a day trek if you are looking for some adventure or just admire the scenery by booking your stay at the nearby hotels.

How to reach: Kuching Airport is 29 km from the Bako National Park and there are buses available for reaching the destination easily. It will take 45 min to one to reach the Bako national park from the airport.

Ideal duration: 1 to 2 days

Nearest Airport: Kuching Airport

Popular attractions:  Pulau Lakei Island, Tanjung Sapi, Ulu Serait, Telok Pandan Besar, Telok Paku

Things to do: Trekking, Boat trip, visit the beaches, spot the wildlife

Best places to stay: Cove 55, The Culvert Hotel Resort Kuching, The Village House, Hilton Kuching

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15. Semporna

Semporna

Lying towards the eastern coast of Sabah, Semporna is one of the best holiday destinations in Malaysia . This coastal district is the gateway to the serene islands of Sabah where you can get the best diving experience in the world. Now as the island is home to many islands and beaches, you can possibly try some of the best water activities.

Semporna Archipelago is not just about islands and beaches as the district is home to an abundance of natural beauty and fascinating attractions. From Bukit Tengkorak Archeological Heritage Site to Bod Gaya Mountain Peak and some famous restaurants, Semporna is a one-stop destination for a splendid vacation in Malaysia. Activities like boat rides and ferries, cruise dinners are organized for travelers. Try island hopping for discovering every nook and corner.

Best time to visit: November-December

How to reach: To reach Semporna, you can either fly to Kota Kinabalu or Tawau. From the airport, public buses and private transport are easily available making it accessible for any destination.  Semporna is also connected with other places to visit in Malaysia via waterways.

Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Nearest Airport: Tawau international Airport

Popular attractions: Bohey Dulang Island, Masjid Pekan, Bukit Bakong Mountain Peak, Larapan Island

Things to do: Marvel Bay Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Hiking, Trekking, Boat Ride, Island Cruise, Deep Sea Diving, Water Sport

Best places to stay: AE Semporna Guesthouse, Wave View Hotel, Sipadan Inn 2, Seafest Hotel Lepa Wing

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16. Putrajaya

Putrajaya

Located at a distance of 25 km from the city of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya is one of the most relaxing Malaysia attractions you can visit. Spreading to an area of 5,000 hectares, this is the third Federal Territory in the country that is designed with a complete European touch. The modern architecture, the well-maintained roads, the blend of modern and contemporary art, and the lively vibes of the city make it a destination that can never be missed.

Making it a tourist hub, there are number of attractions, hotels, and restaurants in Putrajaya. This is the best place to experience the nightlife and enjoy city sightseeing. From shopping in the mall to wandering around, tasting the local cuisines, or discovering the wetlands, you got everything that can make your holiday a memorable time during your travel in Malaysia.

Best time to visit: April and August

How to reach: The nearest airport to Putrajaya is Kuala Lumpur International that is approximately 25 km away. You can board the city buses or get a cab to reach the city.

Ideal duration: 2 days

Nearest Airport:  Kuala Lumpur International Airport

Popular attractions: Putrajaya Lake, Perdana Putra, Natural History Museum, Putrajaya Wetlands Park

Things to do: Water Sport at Putrajaya lake, visit the museums, Shop from Alamanda Mall

Best places to stay: The Everly Putrajaya, Le Meridien Putrajaya, Zenith Putrajaya, Putrajaya Marriott Hotel

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17. Islamic Arts Museum

Islamic Arts Museum

The best or ideal way to express a thought, idea, or solution is through any form of art. Opened to the public in 1998, the Islamic arts museum is situated in the heart of the city in Perdana Botanical Garden. The museum is the largest in South East Asia and over 7000 artifacts throw light on the world of Islam. Several galleries are divided into groups based on their levels. Level 3 includes the Quran and Manuscripts gallery with the Chinese and Indian gallery; and Islamic architecture. Level 4 has jewelry, textile, ceramic work, and armor; along with Islamic glassware. It is one of the most unique places to visit in Malaysia which is open all day long. It is one of the most ideal ways to spend a holiday.

When To Visit: May to July

How to Reach: The best way to reach the museum from the airport is by taxi which takes about 42 mins.

Ideal duration: 5-6 days

Nearest Airport: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport

Popular attractions: 1964 Kiswa, Chinese and Indian gallery; and Islamic architecture

Things to do: Explore the artifacts and architecture

Best places to stay: St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur

Best shopping markets: Central markets, Petaling street market, Kasturi Walk Market

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18. Menara KL Tower  

Menara KL Tower

The 421m high broadcasting and telecommunication tower, Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower is situated in the middle of the city. It is said to one of the ideal holiday destinations in Malaysia for sightseeing as it offers the ideal bird's eye view of Kuala Lumpur. The best part of the tower is that it has a McDonald's outlet, which is said to be the highest. It is the 4th highest telecommunication tower in the world and one of the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur . So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and have the best time of your life as it only happens once in a lifetime.

Timings: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM or 7 PM to 11 PM

How to Reach: One can take the train from the airport to the tower, which takes about an hour. The other form of transportation is by bus from the airport, every 20 minutes.

Ideal duration: 2-3 hours

Nearest Airport: Abdul Aziz Shah Airport

Popular attractions: Mcdonalds, View of the Kuala Lumpur city

Things to do: Visit the mini zoo and upside-down house

Best places to stay: Pacific Regency hotel

Best shopping markets: The Weld, Suria KLCC

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19. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu

Have you ever heard of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu? It is a fascinating place to visit and explore. Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug are the five group of islands that come under the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. The Park organizes several activities on the beach which need a prior booking. It is the ideal Kuala Lumpur vacation anyone can have as they can indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the amazing coral and marine life of the island. One can book a tour of the islands and be taken by ferries. What more can anyone ask for? It is the best way to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It should be on the bucket list of places to visit. You have no idea what you are missing out on. Apart from visiting the park, one can always go shopping in Malaysia to explore the market places; and buy all kinds of goodies. What better way to spend a vacation with family and friends? Go ahead and have the best time of your life.

Best time to visit: March to September

How to Reach: One can take a boat from the Jesselton Jetty ferry terminal, which takes about 20 minutes to reach. Apart from a boat, to get to Malaysia by air as well. The nearest airport is Malaysia International Airport where most of the airline's land.

Nearest Airport: Malaysia International airport

Popular attractions: Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug

Things to do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and witness the amazing coral and marine life

Best places to stay: Manukan island resort and Skypod hostel

Best shopping markets: Central Market and Campbell Street market

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20. Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Do you want a peaceful holiday in the hill stations in Malaysia? You are in luck as Cameron Highlands is one of the best places to visit in Kuala Lumpur . The place is filled with diverse people from various cultures. It is one of the oldest places to be have been established in the 1930s. Some of the ideal attractions of this place are sprawling tea estates, natural vegetation, pleasant climate, orchards, waterfalls, dense forests, pilgrimage and heritage centers, strawberry farms, lavender gardens, mossy forests, time tunnel gallery, museums, and green farmlands. What more can one ask for? People can visit the hill station to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance; people should not miss out on as who knows when the opportunity can arise again.

Best time to visit: November

How to Reach: The best way to get to the Cameron highlands is by bus which is about a 3 and half hour journey. The nearest airport is the klia2 airport and so, people can easily travel to Malaysia by air.

Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Nearest Airport: klia2 airport

Popular attractions: Sprawling tea estates, natural vegetation, pleasant climate, orchards, waterfalls, dense forests, pilgrimage and heritage centers, strawberry farms, lavender gardens, mossy forests, time tunnel gallery, museums, and green farmlands.

Things to do: Visit the Sprawling tea estates, natural vegetation, pleasant climate, orchards, waterfalls, dense forests, pilgrimage and heritage centers, strawberry farms, lavender gardens, mossy forests, time tunnel gallery, museums, and green farmlands.

Best places to stay: Cameron Highland Resort, Kea Garden Guest House

Best shopping markets: Golden Hills Weekend Night Market and Kea Farm Market

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21. Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island

For a great vacation in Malaysia head to Sipadan Island which is one of the top diving sites in the world and hence was given a status of protected reserve in the year 2002 since then only a few tourists are allowed to visit the island at a time. Boasting of one of the richest ecosystems in the world, the island is home to more than 3000 species of fishes and over hundreds of specie of corals. In order to dive this site, one needs to take prior permission from the divine resorts and only 176 permits are allowed in a day with three diving sessions per diver. You will be mesmerized to see the crystal-clear waters of the island and some unusual marine life like turtle tomb, eagle rays, bump head parrotfish, manta rays, whale sharks, scalloped hammerhead sharks and many others.

How to reach: It is easiest to fly to Tawau Airport from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu and then take a 45-minutes' drive to reach Sipadan Island.

Ideal duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Tawau Airport

Popular attractions: Marine life and scenic beaches

Things to do: Scuba diving, explore stunning beaches, enjoy Sipadan Liveaboard, birdwatching and snorkeling

Best places to stay: Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort, Sipadan-Mabul Resort, Semporna, Sabah., Sipadan Water Village, Mabul Water Bungalows

Best shopping markets: N/A

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22. Mantanani

Mantanani

Located off the north-west coast of Sabah, Mantanani forms a group of three scenic islands which are Mantanani Besar, Mantanani Kecil and Lungisan out of which Mantanani Besar is the largest of them all. One of the best activities to enjoy here is birdwatching and you can spot different species of birds at various beaches and trails here. It is a great holiday destination in Malaysia for people who admire nature, marine life and pleasant weather. There are over 20 scenic locations in this part of Malaysia where diving can be enjoyed in the clear waters to admire exotic species of fishes and corals. Not just diving, it is also a great place to enjoy island trekking, sunset cruise and fishing.

How to reach: The best way to reach the island is to take a car drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud which will take around 2 hours and then a boat ride that will finally take you to Mantanani Island.

Ideal duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Kudat Airport

Popular attractions: Tanjung Aru Beach, Pu Toh Tze Temple, Mount Kinabalu Botanical Garden, Sapi Island

Things to do: Sunset tour, snorkeling, sea-kayaking, island trekking and scuba diving

Best places to stay: Sutera at Mantanani Island Resort & Spa, Nido Mantanani Lodge, GreenHouse EcoLodge, Dolphin Bay Resort

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23. Redang Island

Redang Island

Redang Island is an archipelago of 9 islands out of which Pulau Redang is the biggest of all. It is a one of the most relaxing places to visit in Malaysia where people can enjoy a luxurious holiday experience and can find peace on the scenic white sandy beaches of the island overlooking the crystal-clear waters. You will find here some of the best resorts and hotels in Malaysia and most of the high-end resorts are located Pasir Panjang which is the largest beach of that area. It is also a nesting site for turtles that makes it one of the most famous attractions. Myriad of adventures like snorkeling, diving and beach activities can also be enjoyed at this quaint and serene island in Malaysia.

Best time to visit: April to October as it is closed from November to March

How to reach: The best way to reach the island is to book a flight to Sultan Mahmud Airport and then take a boat ride to reach the island which will take around 40 minutes.

Nearest Airport: Sultan Mahmud Airport

Popular attractions:

Things to do: Island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, birdwatching

Best places to stay: The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, Berjaya Redang Resort, Recreation center Laguna Redang Island Resort, Summer Bay Lang Tengah Island Resort

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24. Kinabatangan

Kinabatangan

One of the best places to visit in Malaysia for wildlife and nature lovers is definitely Kinabatangan as it is known for its wildlife sanctuary housing several exotic species of animals. The place is also famous for housing Malaysia’s longest river called Sungai Kinabatangan that stretches to up to 560 km. The area around the river is very rich in flora and fauna, home to around 10 unique species of primates like slow loris, short-tailed macaque and others which you will not find at any other place in Malaysia.

Best time to visit: March-end to beginning of October

How to reach: The best way to reach Kinabatangan is by taking a flight to Sandakan Airport and then take a ride of around 1 hour 15 minutes as the total distance of approx. 69 km.

Nearest Airport: Sandakan Airport

Popular Attractions: Gomantong Caves, Bukit Belanda, Agop Batu Tulug

Things to do: Explore nearby areas and meet wildlife, visit the nearby sanctuary, go for caving

Best places to stay: Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort, Kinabatangan Sunshine Lodge, Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge, Tambisan Island Lodge

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25. Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu

Standing at a height of 4096 m above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is regarded as one of the tallest peaks in South East Asia. This one is the best holiday destination in Malaysia if you are someone who is looking for adventures. Boasting of a rich biodiversity, Mount Kinabalu houses around 600 fern species, 100 species of mammals, 800 orchard species and 300 species of birds making this place a wonderland for someone who loves flora and fauna.

How to reach: Take a flight to Kota Kinabalu International Airport and then take a taxi to reach the hiking point.

Popular Attractions Near Mount Kinabalu: Kinabalu Park, Kundasang War Memorial , Sosodikon Hill, Poring Treetop Canopy Walk, Mount Kinabalu Golf Club

Things to do: Go for hiking, explore the nearby gardens, enjoy hot water bath in hot springs

Best Places to Stay: H Benjamin Residence, Spring Garden Kundasang, Bayu Senja Lodge, The Hill Kinabalu

Best Shopping Markets: The Nabalu Market, Kundasang Market

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26. Kokol Hill

Kokol Hill

Kokol Hill is one of the most amazing offbeat places to visit in Malaysia that offers incredible views of the landscape. One of the best activities to enjoy here is paragliding as you can capture enthralling views from the top. It is also a great spot for couples where they can unwind themselves amidst serenity of nature. This rustic hill is also home to a large species of birds, so birdwatching is also amongst many activities that can be enjoyed here. Book a stay at the beautiful villas and resorts located here and get mesmerized by the natural beauty of this place.

Best Time to Visit:

How to reach: You can take a domestic flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu International Airport and then a 1-hour drive will take you to Kokol Hill

Ideal duration: 1 Day

Popular Attractions Near Kokol Hill: Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kiansom Waterfall, Poring Hot Springs

Things to do: Paragliding and hiking

Best Places to Stay Near Kokol Hill: Kokol Hill Villa, Kokol Haven Resort, Ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu Inanam, Kasih Sayang Health Resort

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27. Langkawi Sky Bridge

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Though Langkawi Sky Bridge is located in the Langkawi Islands but deserves a special mention as this is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia especially for lovers of nature and adventurous souls alike. The place offers breathtaking views of the rainforest around and also of the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls. The whole sight is visually so appealing to the eyes that you wouldn’t want to come back from here so easily. Walk along the bridge and admire the enchanting beauty of nature. Since, the bridge is one of the top attractions in Malaysia , there are several souvenir shops found outside it where a great shopping in Malaysia experience can be enjoyed.

Best Time to Visit: Evening around 4:00 pm

How to reach: The only and the best way to reach the Langkawi Sky Bridge is by taking a cable car from Oriental Village that is located in Pantai Kok area which will drop you to the point near the stairway from where the bridge can be accessed.

Ideal duration: 3-4 hours

Nearest Airport: Langkawi International Airport

Popular Attractions Near Langkawi Sky Bridge: Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, Langkawi Geopark, Oriental Village, Pasir Tengkorak Beach, Temurun Waterfall

Things to Do: Cable car ride

Best Places to Stay: Berjaya Langkawi Resort, The Danna Langkawi, The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, The Datai Langkawi

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28. Legoland Malaysia

Legoland Malaysia

One of the best places to visit in Malaysia with kids is Legoland Malaysia which is an international theme park that was opened in the 2012 for fun, leisure and entertainment of families with kids. Soon, the park became famous amongst tourists as well and became a major tourist attraction in the country. The Park features a learning programme for kids that is of around 40 minutes that enriches their knowledge on different topics. Featuring myriad of restaurants and thrilling rides like roller coasters and others, this theme park is a great option for outings with family and friends.

Timings: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm

How to reach: The park is located at an approximate distance of 31 km from Senai International Airport. A taxi can be hired to reach the park in around 30 minutes.

Ideal duration: 3 to 4 hours

Nearest Airport: Senai International Airport

Popular Attractions: Driving school, Ninjago, Boating school, Wave Pool, Joker Soaker, Restaurants, Legoland Hotel

Things to do: Enjoy various rides, attend learning programme for kids, have snacks at various restaurants located within the park

Best Places to Stay: Legoland Hotel

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29. Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands

One of the best things to do in Malaysia is definitely going to some offbeat place and spend some tranquil time. One such place where you can avoid the hustle-bustle of city life is Genting Highlands that is located just outside Kuala Lumpur that is a great tourist place. It houses some of the best resorts, theme parks, temples and other places of interest which are just perfect to spend some time and know about better about Malaysia. Chin Swee Caves Temple, Awana SkyWay, Awana Horse Ranch, 20th Century Fox World Malaysia, and Butterfly Wonderland Genting are some of the best places to visit here.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

How to reach: Genting Highlands is located approximately 114 km from the KLIA and it takes around 1 hour 40 minutes to cover this distance via a taxi if you take the ELITE/AH2/E6 route.

Popular Attractions: Chin Swee Caves Temple, Awana SkyWay, Awana Horse Ranch, 20th Century Fox World Malaysia, and Butterfly Wonderland Genting

Things to Do: Have fun at various casinos, visit the theme parks with kids, enjoy street food at Penang Food Village, enjoy a scenic walk to Genting Highlands mountains

Best Places to Stay: Grand Ion Delemen Hotel, Genting Grand, Resorts World Genting, The Chateau Spa & Organic Wellness Resort

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Ipoh

If you are looking for relaxing places to visit in Malaysia then consider visiting Ipoh which is located by the Kinta River and serves as the capital city of Perak. The place is a hidden gem and not many tourists know about this place hence, you get a serene ambience with no or less tourist activity. It is a great place to get an insight into the local culture of Malaysia, relish authentic food and also visit some rich heritage sites and ruins that are found near the city. If you are a traveler by heart, then we are sure you will fall in love with this city.

Best Time to Visit: January to February and May to September

How to reach: Take a taxi from Sultan Azlan Shah Airport and then reach your desired destination.

Nearest Airport: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport

Popular Attractions: KeK Lok Tong Cave Temple, Perak Cave Temples, Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, Kellie’s Castle, Geological Museum

Things to Do: Enjoy some peaceful time at Kinta Riverfront, relish authentic food, visit rooftop bars, shop from the night markets

Best Places to Stay: Ipoh Bali Hotel, WEIL Hotel, Sunway Lost World Of Tambun, The Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat

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31. Petronas Twin Towers

Petronas Twin Towers

One of the most iconic structures in Malaysia, Petronas Twin Towers which are one of the tallest buildings in the world and have a double-decker sort of a thing that connects these two towers. The area around the tower is a KLCC Park which is an attraction in itself where people come to relax and unwind while enjoying the electric ambience of this place. The towers have a whopping height of 452 meters and have 88 Storeys which have headquarters of Cesar Pelli & Associates and other companies. These towers are visible from many locations in Malaysia and forms an important part of Malaysia’s tourism. The architecture of these buildings has been inspired by Islamic architecture and are a treat for eyes to watch.

Timings: 09:00 am to 09:00 pm

Ideal Duration: 2 Hours

Things to Do: Visit KLCC Park, Aquaria KLCC, Menara Kuala Lumpur and several other places

Best Places to Stay Nearby: Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

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32. Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi Cable Car

Langkawi is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Malaysia that is known for its stunning landscapes and lush greenery. Taking a Langkawi Cable Car ride is one of the best things to do in Malaysia since you get to take a ride at a height of around 708 meters high and you will be blessed with enchanting scenery from the top. Through this cable car ride, you will reach Mount Mat Cincang which is the second highest mountain in Langkawi. It is advisable to carry a light jacket along with you as once you reach the top, the winds become chilly and the weather is quite cool. The ride was officially opened in 2003 and since then it has been quite popular among tourists.  The total length of the cable car is approximately 2.2 km and it takes around 15 minutes to reach the top.

Ideal Duration: 15 minutes; spend another 1 hour at the top of the peak

Nearest Airport: Langkawi International Airport, Kedah.

Things to Do: Capture stunning views from the top

Best Places to Stay Nearby: Berjaya Langkawi Resort, Casa del Mar Langkawi, The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, The Danna Langkawi

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33. Aquaria KLCC

Aquaria KLCC

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city center beneath Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Aquaria KLCC is supposed to be the world’s largest aquarium with over 5000 marine creatures that include shark, giant groupers, green sea turtles, lethal sea snakes and many more. Living Ocean, the Coast, Shipwreck, Deep Forest, the Stream, Evolution Zone, Station Aquarius, Weid and Wonderful are some of the exhibits found at Aquaria KLCC. You get to enjoy some unusual experiences here like diving and sleeping with shark, cage rage, discovery hunt and marriage proposal wherein you can propose your partner for marriage with a bouquet of fresh flowers and chocolates amidst thousands of sea creatures.

Timings: 10:00 am to 07:00 pm

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Hours

Things to Do: Enjoy discovery hunt, diving and sleeping with sharks and several other activities

Best Places to Stay Nearby: The Westin Kuala Lumpur, Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur

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34. Melaka Historic City

Melaka Historic City

If you want to get an insight about the rich history and culture of Malaysia, then you need to come to Melaka Historic City which is dotted with several museums, temples, architectural sites, cathedrals, rivers and other historical monuments where you can dig into the past and know about the facts and stories about primitive Malaysia. Melaka Historic City is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflects several places which are almost 500 years old and also reflect the trade between West and East. Red Square, Jonker Street, Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, Malacca River and Cheng Hoong Teng Temple are some of the best attractions to visit here.

Best Time to Visit: April, May and October

Ideal Duration: 4 to 5 Hours

Things to Do: Explore historical attractions

Best Places to Stay Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Melaka, Imperial Cottage Malacca, Hatten Hotel Melaka

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35. Batu Caves, Selangor

Batu Caves, Selangor

What makes Malaysia one of the best places to visit in Asia is Batu Caves which is one of the most prominent religious sites in the country that has deep importance in Hindu religion. Batu Caves is basically a limestone hill that has a series of cave temples. The cave in Selangor is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is one of the most important Hindu shrines in the world. Not just the religious aspects but from natural aspects as well, the natural beauty of this place is astonishing and will leave you awestruck with mesmerizing beauty. Thaipusam festival is one of the most popular festivals that is celebrated here when the whole place becomes lively and there is celebration all around. Rock climbing is the best way to get to the Batu Caves and it is something that a novice can also do with the help of trainers and guidance.

Best Time to Visit: June to August

Nearest Airport: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (SZB)

Things to Do: Enjoy rock climbing, sightseeing and

Best Places to Stay Nearby: Hotel Richbaliz, AMI Suites, A&R Urban Hotel, Mercure Selangor Selayang

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36. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

If you are looking for a peaceful ambience adorned by nature then, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is the perfect place for you which is known for its natural mangrove plantations. Taking a boat tour to explore this park in Langkawi Island, one of the best islands in Asia is the best way which will let you enjoy its beauty to the fullest. Different time-based packages are available like 2-hours mangrove tour, 3-hours mangrove tour and 4-hours mangrove tour that can be booked wherein you will get to enjoy river cruise, eagle watching, floating fish farm and bats cave. This geoforest boasts of a rich biodiversity and diverse forms of nature like different forms of rocks, caves, fossils and diverse flora and fauna. Langgun Lake, Cherita Cave, Kelawar Cave, Tanjung Rhu, and Crocodile Cave are some of the main attractions of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.

Timings: 08:30 am to 05:00 pm

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 Hours

Nearest Airport: Kuching International Airport

Things to Do: Explore the park via boating tour, enjoy kayaking, meet different species of flora and fauna

Best Places to Stay Nearby: Adya Hotel Langkawi, Tanjung Rhu Resort, Goldsands Hotel Langkawi

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37. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh Nature Reserve is a haven for all the wildlife that have been abandoned or endangered. The reserve was established in the year 1975 to protect and conserve Orangutans who were prisoned, injured or mistreated. Today, the reserve works towards conservation of several other species and also educates visitors about the importance of rare endangered species and its conservation through several shows and guides.

Semenggoh Nature Reserve also houses some rare species of flora and fauna like gibbon, giant squirrel and several exotic species of birds. There is also a Botanical Research Center that boasts of a fruit orchard, a bamboo garden, orchid nursery and a pond with floating pavilion. Besides this, the visitors can also feed Orangutans during the feeding time which is 09:00 am to 10:00 am in the morning and in evening from 03:00 pm to 04:00 pm.

Timings: Morning: 08:00 am to 10:00 am and evening: 02:00 pm to 04:00 pm

Ideal Duration: 2 to 4 hours

Things to do: Feed Orangutans, explore orchid gardens, take part in educational programs

Best Places to Stay Nearby: Raia Hotel & Convention Centre Kuching, Boyan Heights, One Point Hotel - RH Plaza

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38. Turtle Sanctuary Beach

Turtle Sanctuary Beach

One of the best beaches in Malaysia is Turtle Sanctuary Beach which is an ultimate destination for couples who want to relax in utmost privacy and enjoy enthralling views of nature. The exotic corals, white sandy shores, and rich marine life is what makes this beach an ideal place to enjoy treasures of nature and calm ambience. The whole landscape is covered with dense jungle with absolutely nothing in close vicinity. If you get lucky, you might spot some baby turtles hatching from the eggs, but it’s a rare sight to witness so consider yourself lucky if you witness it. Bask in the sun as you lay down on a beach chair or indulge in water sports like snorkeling to witness the exotic species of marine life.

Best Time to Visit: July to October

Nearest Airport: Kota Bharu Airport

Things to Do: Snorkeling, photography

Best Places to Stay: There are no hotels or resorts available near Turtle Sanctuary Beach

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39. Taman Negara

Taman Negara

Experience tropical life away from the humdrum of city at Taman Negara which is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia for relaxation and peace. Taman Negara offers all the nature inspired activities like jungle trekking, night jungle walk, canopy walk, boat cruise, rapid shooting, fish feeding, cave exploration, bird watching, waterfall exploration are some of the activities to enjoy here. You can also enjoy trekking to Gunung Tahan which is at a height of 2187 meters and offers spectacular views from the top. This hiking trail is only for experienced people as it is considered to be the most challenging treks in Malaysia as it includes river crossing, high mountains, camping for a few nights in jungle.

Best Time to Visit: February to October

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Kuantan Airport

Things to Do: Jungle trekking, night jungle walk, canopy walk, boat cruise, rapid shooting, fish feeding, cave exploration, bird watching, waterfall exploration

Best Places to Stay: Balai Serama Guesthouse, Naura Roomstay, AsiaCamp & Resort

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40. Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses karst formations and caves in a tropical rainforest setting. This place has a rich collection of limestone formations and also exotic flora and fauna, you can join in for the educational tour to Gunung Mulu National Park to know about these natural formations in detail. It also a well-protected area for endangered or threatened species of animals who are well taken care of at this national park. Inside the national park, you will see Mount Mulu which is the second highest mountain in Sarawak. Waterfall hiking, cave exploration, canopy walks, trekking and boating are some of the popular adventurous activities to enjoy at Gunung Mulu National Park.

Best Time to Visit: July to September

Things to Do: Waterfall hiking, cave exploration, canopy walks, trekking and boating

Best Places to Stay:   Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Mulu Backers Homestay, Mulu Diana Homestay, Mulu Village

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41. Dataran Merdeka

Dataran Merdeka/Merdeka Square

You can't miss out on this attraction, which is considered one of the most popular places to visit in Malaysia because of its historical significance. This is the square where Malaysia announced its independence in 1957. It's a paradise for history buffs with several monuments and historical sites located here. From museums to cathedrals, you'll find several different tourist spots here. As the sun sets, this place becomes even more lively with the buildings illuminating with lights, looking even more mesmerizing.  

Best Time to Visit: December to February and May to July

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Things to Do: Explore the Merdeka square, visit the city theatre

Best Places to Stay: MiCasa All Suite Hotel, Big M Hotel, Cosmo Hotel, Travelodge Chinatown

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42. Boh Tea Plantation

Boh Tea Plantation

Who doesn't love walking amidst nature with lush greenery surrounding them? This plantation in Cameron Highlands serves major beauty goals with its picturesque views and breathtaking landscape. Boh Tea Plantation is the largest tea plantations in Southeast Asia that you must visit for a memorable holiday. Driving to this location is a whole other feeling as you pass the mesmerizing beauty and soak in the fresh air. It's the perfect place for couples as well, and it's attractions like these that make honeymoon in Malaysia a romantic affair.

Best Time to Visit: February to March or August to December

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Things to Do: Go for a nature walk, visit the Butterfly Garden, explore the Mossy Forest

Best Places to Stay: The Lakehouse, Century Pines Resort, Zenith, Avillion

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With an array of fascinating sights and thrilling adventures, there are many other best places to visit in Malaysia where you can plan a memorable vacation. With its sublime beauty and the mystical vista, the country draws travelers across the globe, making it one of the best holiday destinations for all. There are flights available from major countries that make travelling to Malaysia easy. Discover the rainforests and beaches, the wildlife and vibrant culture while you enjoy your best vacation. Book your flights to Malaysia and plan your holiday during the best season to enjoy the best weather and explore every panorama.

The best places to visit in Malaysia are:

  • Kuala Lumpur
  • George Town, Penang
  • The Perhentians, Terengganu
  • Pangkor Island, Perak

There are some amazing places and activities you can try in Malaysia for your vacations like:

  • Enjoy the nightlife of Kuala Lumpur
  • Discover the wildlife of rainforests and national park
  • Spend a day in beaches
  • Go for shopping and dining
  • Try on adventures like kayaking and scuba diving

Malaysia can be an enthralling vacation destination to experience the adrenaline rush. The best thrilling actions to try here are hiking, wildlife safari, sea surfing, Tandem Skydiving, white water rafting and more.

Malaysia is a safe country for travelers as the people here are very kind and polite. It is always advisable to be cautious and alert while going offbeat. Avoid traveling alone in the night and less crowded places.

The best tourists' places in Malaysia are:

  • Cameron Highlands
  • Penang National Park
  • Penang Hill

Buses and trains are operating between Singapore and Malaysia that makes it one of the best road trip destination. The trains depart and arrive in KL Sentral.

Malaysia is a diverse country where there are cities, islands, the hills to explore. Tourist here can enjoy the adventures like hiking and trekking or spend their vacation amidst the serene beaches. Offering the most exotic hotels and food, Malaysia has been one of the best destinations for every tourist.

The best time to visit Malaysia is from December to February. Being geographically diverse, one can even plan a holiday at any time of year as the season differs around the peninsula.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Kuala Lumpur is the major terminal where most of the International flights arrives.

Regardless of how long of a trip you plan to Malaysia, it'll never be enough. However, 5 to 6 days are ideal for tourists to explore the major attractions in this country.

Anjali Bisht

Anjali Bisht

Anjali is a passionate travel blogger and an enthusiast photographer travelling around the mountains to capture the best moments, discover and learn more about every nook and corner of the world.

malaysia holiday visit

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Everything you need to know before visiting Malaysia

Marco Ferrarese

Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read

malaysia holiday visit

Malaysia is a beautifully diverse country with tons to see and do – here's what you should know before you go © ibnjaafar / Getty Images

Dynamic, multi-cultural, and hugely underrated, Malaysia is Southeast Asia's unsung tropical hero. Marrying tradition, nature and modernity, it's a country of space-age cityscapes, Islamic minarets and gilded Chinese shrines. It's a world where South Indian temples back onto million-year-old rainforests, and this mish-mash can confuse first-timers.

From what to pack to navigating the nation's ethnic and religious tapestry, these are the top things to know before you embark on a trip to Malaysia – an experience that can often feel like being in several countries at once.

1. Malaysia is a dazzlingly diverse country

Be prepared for many types of culture shock. In multi-ethnic yet predominantly Islamic Peninsular Malaysia, a 69.8% majority of Malay Muslims share the land with ethnic Chinese, Tamil Indians and a dozen aboriginal groups categorized as orang asli (original peoples). This means that red lantern-studded Chinese temples sit next to Hindu gopurams (temple gates) and the onion-shaped domes of intricate, modern mosques. Prayers go up to the sky in three main languages – Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Tamil – and to three main religions: Islam, Chinese Taoism and Hinduism.

A short flight away across the South China Sea, the East Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah in Borneo feel like another world. The former has some 26 different ethnic groups, most of whom are Christian or Protestant, while Sabah is home to another 33 who communicate in over 50 languages and 80 dialects .

2. Pack for an eternal summer – but carry a light jacket

Tropical Malaysia enjoys steamy temperatures hovering around 86°F (30°C) year-round. All you really need to pack are light, loose-fitting cotton clothes to best cope with heat and humidity, and a pair of sneakers and flip-flops. If you forget anything, you can pick it up here. Also pack a hoodie or light jacket to prepare for the Malaysian habit of keeping air conditioning to frosty levels, especially inside shopping malls, buses and trains.

3. Technology is widely available… 

Kuala Lumpur must be one of the world's most futuristic cities, with ever-expanding highways, towers and skyscrapers eternally contending for space. Beyond the capital, there's excellent 4G mobile network coverage and fast wifi at most hotels and guest houses across the nation. Celcom is the best operator when traveling the Peninsula's jungly interior and Borneo. 

4. …but carry cash in the interior

ATMS (cashpoints) are widely available but thin out in the countryside, and they are often hard to find outside of Borneo's main cities. Stock up on the local currency, the Malaysian ringgit, if planning to go off the grid. 

Malaysia Hawker clay pot of Chicken Rice with flames under it

5. The food is something to write home about

The delightfully spicy intricacies of Malaysian food (a concoction of curries, southern Chinese cuisines and pan-Indian dishes that never stop intermarrying) are best consumed fresh off the street, served without embellishments by local "uncles" – slang for older person – on plastic plates. 

The alternative is to sit and rub elbows with locals at a food court, or "hawker center" – large open areas, usually covered by a rooftop, packed with simple food stalls squeezed one against the other.

6. Partying is a bit more expensive

Compared to its backpacker-centric Southeast Asian neighbors Thailand , Cambodia and Vietnam , Malaysia is a more expensive party destination because of heavy taxes on alcohol, which is forbidden to Muslims. The rest of the population is free to drink but forced to pay a higher price.

Alcohol is widely available in major tourist cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Ipoh , Melaka and Johor Bahru,  while in smaller towns, beer is most often available at Chinese-run businesses. The best antidote to steep drinks and cigarette prices is a visit to the tax-free islands of Langkawi and Tioman .

7. Dress casual but modest

Due to the constant heat, Malaysia's dress code is very casual. Wearing short pants, sandals, flip-flops and t-shirts is the accepted norm everywhere but is considered rude when visiting public offices, where long slacks, close-toed shoes and collared shirts are expected. In Malaysia's many kampung (villages), avoid revealing outfits to comply with local religious sensibilities. 

Modesty is also essential when choosing your beachwear. Bikinis and speedos are fine at big hotels, resorts and the tourist islands off the East Coast, such as Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang. But it's best to wear one-piece bathing suits and knee-length swimming trunks on any other beach, where the locals dip fully clothed.

Six floors inside the Suria KLCC shopping mall.

8. It's OK to speak in English if you don't know Malay

Picking up some survival Bahasa Malaysia (Malay language), the national lingo, is pretty straightforward – with its Roman alphabet and absence of tones, it's one of the easiest Asian languages to learn. But it's fine to speak English, especially with Malaysian Chinese and Indians, whose mother tongues are not Malay. Blame it on the British colonization, but practically everyone can communicate in English, and most prefer to do so when talking to foreigners.

9. You might be unknowingly rude

When pointing at someone or something, use the thumb and not the index finger, which is considered rude in Malaysia. Always keep your voice down, for raising the tone is an absolute no-no – like asking direct questions, which many Malaysians may take as "losing face" or an invasion of their personal space.

When shaking hands, always remember to use your right hand, for the left is considered "toilet hand" in any Islamic culture. The only dining etiquette that matters in Malaysia is to never use the left hand when trying to eat with fingers like many locals do.

10. Respect nature, and its spirits 

When a bunch of foreign tourists bared their bottoms on top of Mount Kinabalu in 2015, enraged Kadazan-Dusun locals blamed their act for the consequent magnitude 5.9 earthquake that killed at least 16 and snapped one of the sacred mountain top's two iconic "Donkey Ear" outcrops. 

The animist beliefs that predate the arrival of Islam to the Malay Peninsula have helped foster a highly regarded supernatural world in which nature plays a crucial role. For example, it's common to "ask for permission" before urinating in the jungle, from where locals never bring anything back for fear of piggybacking a curse into their own homes. 

Whenever a group enters a forest, it's best to give out nicknames or not call out each other at all – spirits are always listening. The orang bunian (invisible forest-dwelling creatures comparable to elves) can trick hikers and campers into following them deep into the jungle to never be seen again.

Two tourists with backpacks crossing a suspension bridge.

11. Call 999 for any emergency

A single three-digit number, 999, connects to the police, the fire department, the ministry of health, the maritime enforcement agency and the Department of Civil Defence. Dial 999 112 if calling from a mobile phone. 

12. Boil the tap water

Because of increasing pollution of water sources and aging buildings fitted with rusted pipes, it's always best to boil tap water before drinking, or buy mineral water. Most hotels allow guests to refill their water containers. Carrying a water filtration system or purifying tablets can come in handy when striking out on multi-day hikes. 

13. Vaccines are recommended

It is advisable to travel to Malaysia after being inoculated against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid. Malaria is generally not an issue in cities and most forested areas, so a prophylaxis is not strictly necessary. Dengue fever occurs sporadically in cities, but as there are no vaccines for it, the best strategy is to not get bitten by mosquitoes – use heavy-duty insect repellent.

Malaysia is one of Asia's top medical tourism destinations and boasts private hospitals equipped with excellent facilities. Make sure to have proper health insurance coverage, or be ready to pay for the premium.

Colourful cartoon tri-shaws to take tourists around Melaka old town

14. Beware of snatch thieves

Traveling in Malaysia is generally a pretty safe experience for travelers of both sexes, but whether they travel solo or in groups, female travelers should pay attention when walking along the busiest roads of capital Kuala Lumpur – keep your bags away from the roadside, for motorbike snatch thieves are well-known to target women, and some attacks have resulted in a victim's death. 

15. How to travel safely for LGBTQI+ travelers 

While a 2021 court ruling suggests change may be afoot, same-sex relationships are not only taboo in Malaysia, they're banned by federal law. For the LGBTQI+ communities here, the golden rule is to avoid publicizing relationships. In fact, public displays of affection are frowned upon in Malaysia in general, no matter your sexual orientation.  

16. Drug offenses can get you to the gallows

Stay away from drugs in Malaysia, where 200g of cannabis, 15g of morphine or heroin, and 40g of cocaine mean a death sentence. Offenders are shaken down extremely hard or jailed even for carrying much less.

This article was first published Feb 27, 2022 and updated Feb 3, 2024.

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Malaysia Tour Packages

Compare malaysia tours & packages from top travel agents.

malaysia holiday visit

Among Asia's most developed countries, the island-peninsula of Malaysia is a multicultural land of urbane skyscrapers, historical landmarks, temples rubbing shoulders with pagodas, churches and mosques and legendary gastronomy. Welcoming over 4.3 million tourists annually, Malaysia is one of the ten most visited countries worldwide. Take an immeasurably rewarding trip with Holidify's Malaysia tour packages.

The best time to visit Malaysia is between December to April. It takes 5-6 days to explore Malaysia's sightseeing spots and diverse culture, an amalgam of Malay, Peranakan, European, Chinese, Arabic and Indian influences. The capital of Kuala Lumpur is home to colonial-era mansions, shopping districts like Bukit Bintang and the iconic 451m-tall Petronas Twin Towers.

When you travel to Malaysia, catch world-famous charms of this Southeast Asian starlet - dive into the turquoise waters of Pulau Redang's East Coast, celebrate Thaipusam festival at the Batu Caves, admire rich biodiversity at Borneo's beaches, steep sandstone cliffs, mangroves and peat swamp forests and visit a cool hill station, the Cameron Highlands.

Penang is Malaysia's most popular tourist destination known for its soft sandy beaches, temples and monuments. Take a sightseeing tour of Kek Lok Si Temple, Tropical Spice Garden, Fort Cornwallis and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah are scenic beaches with opportunities for parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, snorkelling and windsurfing.

Accorded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Georgetown Historic City is Penang's capital. Georgetown is flanked by swanky shopping centres, Chinese manors, pubs, shophouses, mosques, cafes and artsy boutiques. With hiking trails and funicular railways, Verdant Penang Hill overlooks it all.

Make a beeline for the top of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia's highest mountain, with its summit at 4,095 metres. The mountain is located within Kinabalu Park, Malaysia's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through Fraser's Hill and Ipoh Caverns, the country's longest caves displaying 5,000-year-old Neolithic paintings.

In Northeastern Malaysia, Perhentian Islands lies clustered within a marine park accessible by ferries. The two largest islands here are Pulau Perhentian Besar, with a lively backpacking scene, and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, with its rainforest beaches, upscale and family-oriented destinations. In addition, you can explore less touristy beaches at Redang and Sipadan Islands.

For thrilling adventures, go to Gunung Mulu National Park, Sunway Lagoon Amusement and Water Park, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Zoo Negara. Ride the SkyCab cable car and walk Machinchang Mountain's Glass Bridge at Langkawi Islands.

Streamline your trip with Holidify's best Malaysia tour packages, including visits to fascinating attractions and accommodations for tourists, families and solo adventurers.

Places to Visit in Malaysia

1. Kuala Lumpur:  Kuala Lumpur, popularly referred to as KL, is the capital city of Malaysia. Officially the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, it is also the largest city of the country, spreading over almost 245 sq km. Steel-clad skyscrapers, mega shopping malls, renowned monuments, bustling markets and burgeoning nightlife - that is Kuala Lumpur for you!

2. Langkawi:  Spread out with clean beaches, sparkling blue waters and forests, Langkawi is a tourist's paradise. Also known as Langkawi Permata Kedah or Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah, the 99 islands that make up this place are an ideal spot for some rest and relaxation. The choicest seafood, tons of spas and other fun activities will make your stay in Langkawi real fun.

3. Genting Highlands:  Located in Pahang, Genting Highlands is a beautiful hill station in Malaysia which is only an hour’s drive away from Kuala Lumpur. Dubbed as the "City of Entertainment" is renowned for its spirited nightlife, luxury hotels, huge shopping complexes and world-class casinos.

4. Cameron Highlands:  Cameron Highlands is a gorgeous hill station nestled in the hills of Pahang in Malaysia. Bordered by the Malaysian states of Perak and Kelantan, this hilly district is home to eight different settlements that boast of stunning views, expansive plantations, nurseries, colonial bungalows, and hidden waterfalls.

5. Ipoh:  Explore the Hipster Capital of Malaysia in style at Ipoh, Malaysia’s third largest city that has recently shot to fame as an offbeat destination for lovers of adventure, art, heritage, and architecture. From exploring breathtaking limestone caves and kayaking along the Kinta River to trying out the famous Ipoh white coffee and strolling through the city to find gorgeous street art, this city has much to offer!

6. Kuchang:  The state capital of Sarawak and the largest city on the island of Borneo, Kuching is a bustling, diverse city which has old colonial buildings and modern towers and houses. With the Sarawak River on one side, the city has street food vendors and locals selling handicrafts and paintings

7. Batu Caves:  Batu Caves is a series of limestone caves and one of the most popular Hindu shrines located outside India. It is situated about 13 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur in the district of Gombak, making it an unmissable day trip from the city. 

8. Tioman Island:  Tioman Island is located in Rompin District of Pahang, Malaysia. The 20km long and 11km wide island has cascading waterfalls, rigoruous jungles, laid-back fishing villages and idyllic beaches. Major area of the island is forest cover and is a habitat to a variety of flora and fauna. Coral Reefs are the prime attraction of Tioman making it a hotspot for water activities like snorkelling, surfing and scuba diving.

Things to Do in Malaysia

1. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers: Once renowned as the tallest buildings in the world and now as the tallest twin structures, the Petronas twin towers are inspired by Islamic architecture and are a must-visit. The visitors can climb up to Level 86 for a close-up view of the tower's spire or stand on the double-decked Skybridge to enjoy exhilarating views of the city. If you are a fan of classical music, Filharmonik Petronas concert hall, South East Asia's leading venue, is located between the towers. Petronas Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur Convention Center and the Petrosains Science Center are some other major attractions.

2. Explore Batu Caves: The Batu Caves are a major tourist attraction, inviting thousands of visitors and devotees as it is considered an important religious landmark. The limestone hill has three major caves, many smaller ones and a 100-year-old temple featuring several Hindu shrines, statues and paintings. Visitors often come to participate in the annual Hindu festival of Thaipusam, usually celebrated at the end of January.

3. Splash About at Sunway Lagoon Theme Park: For an adventure-packed day, visit the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park featuring over 90 attractions in 6 different adventure zones, including Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park & Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon– Asia's 1st Nickelodeon Themed Land. Get your adrenaline pumping on a range of watery rides with dry land activities and end an ultimate day of fun and thrill by taking a relaxing spa and dining in fine restaurants.

4. Go Island Hopping in Langkawi: Enter a tropical paradise on the western coast of Malaysia in Langkawi, the jewel of Kedah and cruise along this archipelago, consisting of 99 beautiful islands. You can take a boat or a jet ski and explore the mesmerizing crystal blue waters, gasp at the exhilarating views from the Beras Basah Island, or swim across the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden surrounded by mangroves and limestone rock in Pulau Dayang Bunting.

5.Trek in Negara National Park: Escape to the idyllic rainforests of Taman Negara, one of the top nature destinations in Malaysia and experience the mesmerizing effect of this 130 million years old heritage. You can unwind and enjoy an array of outdoor activities, including walking on the world's longest canopy walkway, trekking under the rainforest canopy to the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia, caving, fishing, camping, observing wildlife and admire the serene beauty of the forests.

6. Ride the cable car in Langkawi: Fly across the Langkawi lush rainforests on Mt. Mat Cincang in a cable car, renowned as the Langkawi SkyCab. Enjoy a bird's eye view of the crystal clear waters, the amazing flora and fauna, and 550 million-year-old rock. The cable car is one of the steepest on the planet and the longest free span mono-cable in Malaysia. You can take the cab from the base station at the foothills and cover over 1700 meters to reach the top station with exhilarating views of Langkawi islands from the rock tower peaks.

7. Enjoy a staycation in Genting Highlands: Retreat to Malaysia's premier hillside station, enjoying an aesthetic backdrop of the mountains and an experience of Las Vegas, Asian style with its casino, nightlife and luxury hotels. The resort town is dotted with a few tourist attractions like indoor and outdoor theme parks, an 18-hole golf course, a casino, Malaysia's biggest strawberry farm, and cave temples visited in honour of significant figures. The 100 million-year-old rainforest also features adventure activities such as abseiling, indoor rock climbing and flying fox activities.

8. Beat the heat in the Cameron highlands:  Home to orchards, tea plantations, gardens, hiking trails with various stages of difficulty in mossy forests or jungles, museums and mesmerizing beauty of the misty landscape, this breezy and cool hill station is a perfect destination for a getaway from the noisy crowds. If you are a nature lover, visit the Boh Plantation, Lavender Gardens, Thompson Falls, Big Red Strawberry Farm, Time Tunnel Museum, Mount Batu Brinchang and many more for a memorable time.

Why to Buy Malaysia Tour Package? 

Purchasing Malaysia tour packages offers a range of benefits and advantages that enhance your travel experience to this diverse and vibrant country. Here are some compelling reasons to consider buying Malaysia tour packages: Expert Itinerary Planning: Malaysia tour packages are thoughtfully curated by travel experts who have extensive knowledge of the country. They design well-structured itineraries that cover the best attractions and experiences, ensuring you make the most of your time in Malaysia. Local Knowledge: Tour packages often include local guides who are well-versed in Malaysia's history, culture, and traditions. They provide valuable insights and enrich your understanding of the places you visit. Time-Saving and Convenience: Booking a tour package saves you the time and effort of planning the entire trip from scratch. All the logistics, including accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing, are taken care of, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation. Well-Organized Transportation: Tour packages provide organized transportation, making it easy to move between cities and attractions without worrying about navigating unfamiliar routes or transportation options. Insider Access and Skip-the-Line Privileges: Some tour packages offer exclusive access to popular attractions, allowing you to skip long queues and enjoy a more seamless and efficient sightseeing experience. Safety and Security: When you book a tour package, you travel with a reputable tour operator that prioritizes your safety and security throughout the trip. Local Experiences and Cultural Immersion: Tour packages often include visits to local markets, cultural performances, and traditional dining experiences, providing you with opportunities to immerse yourself in Malaysia's diverse culture and heritage. Cost-Effectiveness: Tour packages can offer competitive rates due to bulk bookings and established partnerships with hotels and service providers. They may also include added value inclusions such as meals or special activities, making it a cost-effective option. Stress-Free Travel: With a tour package, you don't have to worry about the logistics of planning, which can be especially beneficial if you're visiting Malaysia for the first time or prefer a more relaxed and stress-free vacation. Group Activities and Social Interaction: Joining a tour group allows you to meet fellow travelers from different parts of the world, fostering social interaction and creating memorable experiences together. In conclusion, buying Holidify's Malaysia tour packages provides convenience, local expertise, enriching experiences, and a well-structured itinerary, ensuring you have a memorable and fulfilling trip to this captivating Southeast Asian destination.

Shopping in Malaysia

Famed as THE place for stocking up on electronic products ranging from state-of-the-art cameras to the tiniest MP3 player, Malaysia attracts millions of people across the world to buy some of the best and authentic souvenirs, including unique fabrics like Batik, Sarong and Songket, Hand-woven gifts, Bamboo crafts, paintings, White Coffee and Tea, Tropical fruit chocolate, Rice wine, Sabah Pearls and much more.

Revel in an authentic Asian street shopping experience in the country's open markets offering great deals and huge discounts, also boasting famous western malls with enthralling amusement parks.

  • Pavilion KL for high-end shopping with seven glistening floors of international and local designer brand, in-house spas, fancy decors and electronics stores,
  • Berjaya Times Square ,the world’s ninth-largest building,
  • Sungei Wang Plaza , a Japanese complex,
  • Petaling Street for best bargains at the flea markets and street stalls,
  • Central Market for Indian and Chinese art pieces and accessories,
  • Utama Shopping Center , the largest shopping mall in Malaysia,
  • Lorong Kulit Flea Market for Vintage artifacts, pewter vessels, rare books, and clothes,
  • Cecil Street Market for the best deals on spices, white coffee, artisanal teas, nutmeg oil, and durian delicacies,
  • Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall and Zon Shopping Paradise.

Food in Malaysia

With an authentic combination of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavours, the cuisines served in Malaysia attracts many people from different parts of the world to come and savour the inevitably delicious taste from the trio blend of rich ingredients, often served on a banana leaf for the South Indian touch.

  • Nasi Lemak - rice cooked in coconut milk, topped with spicy sambal chili sauce.
  • Ikan Bakar - marinated fish grilled over charcoal on top of a banana leaf.
  • Nasi Tumpang - rice dish that comes wrapped in a cone-shaped banana leaf, perfect for an on-the-go snack.
  • Asam Laksa - noodles in murky brown fish soup.
  • Curry Laksa - noodles in a thick and delicious coconut milk curry.
  • Char Kway Teow - rice noodles, stir fried on high heat with shrimp, bean sprouts, chives, and often an egg.
  • Hokkien Mee, Nasi Campur, Bak Kut Teh, Beef Rendang and Ayam Goreng are also some of the many dishes to perfectly tantalize your taste buds!

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

The best time to visit Malaysia is between March to early October. When one can avoid the worst of the rains, and there is comparatively less humidity during this period. The weather in Malaysia is said to be hot and humid throughout the year with short spells of rain. The temperature in Malaysia usually varies from 21-degree centigrade to 32 degrees Celsius at the sea level. At the higher peak levels, you can expect lower temperatures and much colder weather.

When you are planning to visit Malaysia, the first thing that you need to decide is which part of Malaysia you’re planning on visiting, i.e. the west coast or the east coast. The best travelling months will depend on the choice of your region and also the kind of activities that you are planning on enjoying. Malaysia barely has any seasonal changes because of the constant temperature but the coldest months are said to be from November to January.

How to Reach Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur International Airport is Malaysia's main international airport and one of the major airports in South East Asia. The distance between India to Malaysia is approximately 3000kms. Kuala Lumpur is very well connected to the rest of the world by Air. There are frequent flights from India to Kuala Lumpur. You can take flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkatta and Banglore, four major international airports of India.

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Malaysia 4 Nights 5 Day Tour Package - Genting Highland and Kuala Lumpur

4 Nights / 5 Days

Kuala Lumpur(0N) → Genting Highlands(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(2N)

₹ 22,198* per person

₽ 22,198*

per adult on twin sharing

Malaysia Itinerary 5 Days including Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi

Kuala Lumpur(2) → Langkawi(2N)

₹ 26,082* per person

₽ 26,082*

The Best All Inclusive Malaysia Package for 6 Nights

6 Nights / 7 Days

Kuala Lumpur(2N) → Penang(2N) → Langkawi(2N)

₹ 32,742* per person

₽ 32,742*

Pocket Friendly Cruise to Malaysia and Singapore

5 Nights / 6 Days

Kuala Lampur (2N) → Cruise (1N) → Singapore (2N)

₹ 45,497* per person

₽ 45,497*

Not sure which package to pick for Malaysia?

Talk to our trip experts now to get the best deal

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Malaysia Itinerary 7 Days - Kuala Lumpur, Genting and Langkawi

Kuala Lumpur(2N) → Genting Highlands(2N) → Langkawi(2N)

₹ 33,851* per person

₽ 33,851*

Singapore Malaysia and Bali Tour Package: Idyllic Honeymoon

8 Nights / 9 Days

Kuala Lampur (3N) → Singapore(2N) → Bali (3N)

₹ 71,708* per person

₽ 71,708*

Fascinating Kuala Lumpur, Sandakan, Koa Kinabalu Package

7 Nights / 8 Days

Kuala Lumpur(1N) → Kota Kinabalu(3N) → Sandakan(2N)

₹ 88,780* per person

₽ 88,780*

Best of Malaysia & Singapore Tour Package for 6 Nights

Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore(3N)

₹ 46,615* per person

₽ 46,615*

Thailand Malaysia Tour Package- 7 Nights 8 Days

Bangkok(0N) → Pattaya(2N) → Bangkok(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 38,846* per person

₽ 38,846*

Family Special Malaysia with Kuala Lumpur and Genting Highlands

Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Genting Highlands(1N)

₹ 31,077* per person

₽ 31,077*

Langkawi Tour Package - 3 Nights 4 Days

3 Nights / 4 Days

Langkawi (3N)

₹ 15,538* per person

₽ 15,538*

Kuala Lumpur & Cameron Highlands Tour Package - 5 Nights/6 Days

Kuala Lumpur(2N) → Cameron Highlands(1N) → Kuala Lumpur(1N)

Singapore Malaysia Tour Package With Cruise: Superstar Libra

Penang(1N) → Langkawi(1N) → Phuket/Krabi(1N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore(2N)

₹ 87,680* per person

₽ 87,680*

Malaysia Highlights: Kuala Lumpur & Petaling Jaya

Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Petaling Jaya(1N) → Kuala Lumpur(1N)

₹ 19,978* per person

₽ 19,978*

South-East Asia with Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand - Cruise Group Tour

Singapore(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(2N) → Cruise(1N) → Kuala Lumpur(1N)

₹ 73,169* per person

₽ 73,169*

Amazing Kuala Lumpur for 3 Nights

Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 23,307* per person

₽ 23,307*

Grand South Asia Tour Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Bali

11 Nights / 12 Days

Bangkok (3N) → Kuala Lampur (3N) → Singapore (3N) → Bali (2N)

₹ 61,856* per person

₽ 61,856*

Singapore & Malaysia Summer Tour Package

Singapore(3N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 45,505* per person

₽ 45,505*

Malaysia 4 Days Itinerary - All Inclusive Private Tour

Kuala Lumpur(2N) → Genting Highlands(1N)

₹ 23,862* per person

₽ 23,862*

Fun-Filled Malaysia Family Tour Package for 6 Nights

Langkawi(2N) → Penang(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(2N)

₹ 33,297* per person

₽ 33,297*

A Relaxing Malaysia Vacation with Kuala Lumpur and Genting Highlands

Malaysia summer package with kuala lumpur.

₹ 21,088* per person

₽ 21,088*

5 Star Malaysia & Singapore Holiday Package

Kuala Lumpur(2N) → Genting Highlands(2N) → Singapore(3N)

₹ 57,714* per person

₽ 57,714*

4 Star Malaysia & Singapore Holiday Package

₹ 53,275* per person

₽ 53,275*

Kuala Lumpur Singapore: Combo Tour Package for 5 Nights

Singapore(3N) → Kuala Lumpur(2N)

₹ 41,066* per person

₽ 41,066*

Mesmerising Singapore & Malaysia Trip for 5 Nights

Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore(2N)

Oriental Magic Group Tour in Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore

Bangkok(0N) → Pattaya(1N) → Bangkok(2N) → Phuket(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore(3N)

₹ 127,083* per person

₽ 127,083*

Experience The Best of Malaysia & Cameron Highlands in 14 Nights

14 Nights / 15 Days

Kuala Lumpur(6N) → Penang(3N) → Langkawi(3N) → Cameron Highlands(2N)

₹ 95,451* per person

₽ 95,451*

Marvelous Holiday Group Tour Package : Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand

Singapore City(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Penang(1N) → Phuket(1N) → Krabi(1N)

₹ 108,053* per person

₽ 108,053*

5 Nights 6 Days Singapore Malaysia Package

Singapore(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 39,956* per person

₽ 39,956*

Fascinating Far East including Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore - Group Tour

10 Nights / 11 Days

Bangkok(2N) → Pattaya(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore(3N)

₹ 103,330* per person

₽ 103,330*

Thailand Singapore and Malaysia Tour Package for 10 Nights

Bangkok(2N) → Pattaya(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore City(3N)

₹ 120,789* per person

₽ 120,789*

Oriental Kuala Lumpur & Singapore Group Tour

Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Singapore City(3N)

₹ 94,341* per person

₽ 94,341*

Off Beat Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi Package

Penang (2N) → Langkawi (2N) → Kuala Lumpur (2N)

₹ 26,815* per person

₽ 26,815*

Fun Package Malaysia

Langkawi (3N) → Kuala Lumpur (3N)

Island Hopping Package: Malaysia, Singapore and Bintan Island

Kuala Lampur(2N) → Singapore 2N) → Bintan Island(2N)

₹ 73,040* per person

₽ 73,040*

Enchanting 4 Nights Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh Package

Ipoh(1N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 27,747* per person

₽ 27,747*

Singapore Malaysia Tour Packages for Family - 7 Nights 8 Days

Kuala Lumpur (2N) → Genting Highlands(2N) → Penang(1N) → Langkawi(2N)

5 Nights 6 Days Malaysia Package: Exciting Family Vacation

Kuala Lumpur (2N) → Genting Highlands(1N) → Langkawi(2N)

In the Lap of Luxury - Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh Package

Ipoh(1N) → Kuala Lumpur (2N)

₹ 39,050* per person

₽ 39,050*

Unforgettable Kuala Lumpur with Singapore Tour

Singapore (4N) → Kuala Lumpur (3N)

₹ 42,202* per person

₽ 42,202*

Serene Kulala Lumpur and Kuching Trip

Kuching(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 41,169* per person

₽ 41,169*

West Malaysia Delights Package

Kuala Lumpur(3N) → Port Dickson(2N) → Cameron Highlands(2N) → Penang(2N) → Langkawi(2N)

₹ 62,709* per person

₽ 62,709*

Fantastic Kuala Lampur and Johor Bahru Package

Johor Bahru(2N) → Kuala Lumpur(3N)

₹ 45,054* per person

₽ 45,054*

Shimmering Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur(4N)

₹ 30,292* per person

₽ 30,292*

Latest Reviews for Malaysia

Dr. Shaik's Trip to Malaysia, Singapore, Bali

(Written on 05 Oct, 2023)

I had a good experience with Avidfly vacations tour package for Singapor and Malaysia

Jiju's Trip to Malaysia, Singapore

(Written on 18 Dec, 2019)

Trip to malaysia

Hemant's Trip to Malaysia

(Written on 04 Feb, 2019)

Well organized except for a few hiccups

Aravinda Krishna V's Trip to Malaysia

(Written on 12 Jan, 2018)

My family trip to Singapore-Malaysia from 10th April to 17th April-2017

Pranav's Trip to Malaysia, Singapore

(Written on 27 Apr, 2017)

Amazing experience

Nisha's Trip to Malaysia

(Written on 29 Dec, 2016)

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FAQs on Malaysia Tour Packages

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  • Tourist Visa (Social Visit Pass/Tourist): This visa is suitable for individuals visiting Malaysia for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, leisure, or visiting friends and family. It is typically issued for stays of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on your nationality.
  • Business Visa (Social Visit Pass/Business): If you are traveling to Malaysia for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring potential business opportunities, you will need a business visa. This visa is also usually valid for stays of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on your nationality.
  • Transit Visa: If you have a layover in Malaysia and will be staying in the country for a short period while waiting for your onward flight, you may need a transit visa. However, citizens of certain countries are exempted from transit visas for certain durations.

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  • 21 Malaysia Islands You Must Visit In 2024 For Having The Best Vacation Ever

28 Mar 2023

The Malaysia islands look no less than shining gemstones, and the experiences they offer only make them a desirable destination for any type of holiday. Be it romancing with your loved one, spending time with your family, or chilling with your friends, these islands are ideal hotspots to have the best vacation of your lifetime. If you are planning a vacation to get some time off of your daily monotonous schedule, choose these islands in Malaysia for a short getaway from your urban lifestyle. Scroll through these best islands in Malaysia, and take note of the top things to do and how to reach there before you head out for your trip. We have considered the nearest airport and the best mode of transport to reach the islands in Malaysia mentioned below.

Top 21 Malaysia Islands

Looking for islands to visit in Malaysia? These Malaysia islands along the coast of Borneo should be on your list because of the breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, and exciting adventure activities they have to offer. Make sure to stop by on your trip to Malaysia and make the most of your trip:

  • Lankayan Island: A Snorkeling Paradise
  • Layang Layang Island: Spot Some Whales
  • Selingan Turtle Island: Take A Look At The Little Creatures
  • Sipadan Island: Enjoy Scuba Diving
  • Mabul Island: Go Try Kayaking
  • Mataking Island: Get Pampered
  • Rawa Island: Try Beach Volleyball
  • Kapas Island: Go For Jungle Trekking
  • Tenggol Island: Relax On The Tranquil Beaches
  • Redang Island: Witness Coral Reefs
  • Tioman Island: Click Pictures At The Waterfalls
  • Perhentian Islands: Have Fun At The Bars
  • Penang Island: Savour Some Local Food
  • Pangkor Island: Relish Scrumptious Seafood
  • Langkawi: Enjoy Beach Hopping
  • Payar Island: For Adventure Seekers
  • Lang Tengah Island: Embrace Heaven
  • Sibu Island: Exclusivity Redefined
  • Pom Pom Island: For A Variety Of Coral Species
  • Pulau Tiga: Explore Mud Volcanoes
  • Mantanani Island: For The Best Wreck Diving

1. Lankayan Island: A Snorkeling Paradise

A gorgeous view of Lankayan Island which is one of the amazing Malaysia Islands

Image Source

Situated in the Sulu Sea, this is one of the best Malaysian islands, which is a haven for refreshing oneself amidst the beauty of nature. Apart from offering elegant wooden chalets to spend your holiday, it is also becoming one of the hottest diving spots in the world. This is amongst the most famous islands in Malaysia.

Best For: This tiny jewel-like island is an ideal holiday spot for families with kids, and also for divers. Things To Do:

  • Stay at the luxurious Lankayan Island Dive Resort
  • Indulge in snorkelling or diving
  • Savour the gorgeous views around
  • Explore Gomantong Caves
  • Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation centre

Best Time To Visit: March – October and June – September (For watching turtles) How To Reach: Upon reaching the Sandakan Airport from Kuala Lumpur, wait to get transferred to the jetty from where you can take the boat and reach the island in 75 to 90 minutes.

Must Read:  A Bedazzling Trip To Cameron Highlands

2. Layang Layang Island: Spot Some Whales

A mesmerising view of Layang Layang in Malaysia

Also known as Swallow Reef, Layang Layang is just the perfect place to be if ‘eat, sleep, and dive’ is all you are looking for. While this island is not too cheap, it is definitely a beauty worth witnessing. Make sure to stop by one of the most peaceful Malaysia islands.

Best For: Located in the middle of deep waters, this island is home to rich marine life and a refreshing breeze, which makes it a must-visit for nature lovers. Things To Do:

  • Enjoy the underwater world
  • Spot whale sharks
  • Indulge in sunbathing or bird-watching

Best Time To Visit: March-August How To Reach: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to the Kota Kinabalu Airport, and then a chartered flight from there to reach the island in around two hours.

Malaysia Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

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Malaysia & Singapore Honeymoon 6D/5N Package @ Rs 29,999

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Remarkable Singapore Malaysia Honeymoon 7D/6N @ Rs 33,999

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Singapore & Malaysia Tour 7D/6N Packages @ Rs 39,000

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Idyllic Singapore & Malaysia Honeymoon 8D/7N @ Rs 42,000

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malaysia holiday visit

Singapore Malaysia Honeymoon 8D/7N Package @ Rs 49,999

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

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See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

3. Selingan Turtle Island: Take A Look At The Little Creatures

A spectacular view of Turtle Island which is one of the amazing Malaysia Islands

Located some 40 kilometres away from Sandakan, the Selingan Island offers unique experiences and extraordinary sights that no other Malaysia islands do. With turtles swimming around on the beaches, it is nearly impossible to take both your eyes and camera away from them. It is touted as one of the best Malaysia islands.

Best For: Of all the Malaysia islands, this place is worth visiting with your family, partner, and even friends. Things To Do:

  • Witness the turtles laying their eggs
  • Indulge in scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Spend time at the beaches

Best Time To Visit: March – July and July – October (Turtle breeding period) How To Reach: Take a direct flight from either Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu to reach the Sandakan city, and then get on board the 60-minute boat ride to reach the island.

Suggested Read: 13 Glittering Gems Of Nightlife In Malaysia 

4. Sipadan Island: Enjoy Scuba Diving

Sipadan Island is one of the famous Malaysia Islands

One of the top islands in Malaysia, Sipadan is home to exotic species like sea turtles, reef fish, and hammerhead sharks. While the island doesn’t offer any accommodation, it is still the best place to escape for a quick getaway. This is one of the most astounding places to visit near Malaysia .

Best For: Being one of the best diving spots in the world, this gorgeous island near Malaysia is a paradise for divers. Things To Do:

  • Indulge in scuba diving
  • Experience the thrill of snorkelling
  • Take a tour of the island via Sipadan Liveaboard

Best Time To Visit: April – December How To Reach: Fly to Tawau from either Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu, take a taxi to the town of Semporna from there, and upon reaching Semporna, take a fast boat to reach the island.

5. Mabul Island: Go Try Kayaking

A splendid view of Mabul Island

A hidden island in Malaysia and counted among the Malaysia islands near Kuala Lumpur , Mabul is one of the best Malaysian beach holiday destinations. The island boasts pristine beaches with coconut trees, soft white sand, and emerald water. Thanks to its seclusion, it is still an untouched bit of beauty, which makes a visit here absolutely worthwhile. It is counted among the best Malaysia islands.

Best For: This island is one of the world’s best destinations for muck diving, which makes it a great place for adventure seekers. Things To Do:

  • Explore the island in a transparent kayak
  • Visit the Bajau Laut Village
  • Witness the gorgeous golden hues of the sunrise

Best Time To Visit: May – October How To Reach: After reaching the town of Semporna from Tawau, take a speedboat to reach the island in 30 minutes.

Suggested Read: Malaysia Honeymoon Guide 

6. Mataking Island: Get Pampered

Mataking Island is one of the wonderful Malaysia Islands to explore

Located in the Celebes Sea, this gorgeous one among the Malaysia islands is the perfect reflection of sheer beauty, luxury, and serenity. The top-notch resorts here surrounded by sparkling blue waters make it an enchanting place for having a one-of-its-kind experience. It is one of the best Malaysia islands all over the world.

Best For: Home to first ‘Underwater Post Office’ and connecting two islands via a sandbar, this island is best for both honeymooners and families. Things To Do:

  • Indulge in diving, and explore the famous gardens and viewpoints
  • Pamper yourself at Jamu Spa
  • Take a leisurely walk to the Mataking Kecil Island

Best Time To Visit: February – November How To Reach: Fly to the city of Tawau and then take a taxi or minivan to Semporna. After reaching Semporna, take a speedboat to reach the island in 45 minutes.

7. Rawa Island: Try Beach Volleyball

A breathtaking view of Rawa Island in Malaysia

Rawa Island is a beautiful coral island located on the east coast of Malaysia. For experiencing royalty or having a secluded vacation, this island owned by the Sultanate of Johor is the best place to be. Also, one of the top Malaysian islands near Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Rava is an absolute delight for a weekend getaway.

Best For: This idyllic tropical island is a haven for those in pursuit of peace and wishing to spend some good time with their family. Things To Do:

  • Indulge in snorkeling
  • Enjoy the fun of water slides with your loved ones
  • Try your hands on fishing, or at a game of beach volleyball

Best Time To Visit: March – September How To Reach: Take a taxi from either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore to Mersing. After reaching Mersing, take a speedboat or a ferry to reach the island in 30 to 60 minutes.

Suggested Read: Singapore Vs Malaysia Honeymoon

8. Kapas Island: Go For Jungle Trekking

A majestic view of Kapas Island which is one of the amazing Malaysia Islands

With soft white sandy beaches, palm trees, and colourful flora and fauna, Kapas is a marvel worth witnessing. Out of all the islands of Malaysia, Kapas has the most laid-back and rustic ambience, which makes it an ideal retreat for a relaxing holiday. This is among the most beautiful destinations for honeymoon in Malaysia .

Best For: Also known as Cotton Island, this is a perfect holiday spot for beach lovers. Things To Do:

  • Indulge in Turtle spotting
  • Enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving

Best Time To Visit: March – September  How To Reach: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu, and from there hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Marang. Upon reaching the Marang Jetty, take a boat till this one of the most beautiful Malaysia Island. It would take only 15 minutes the destination.

9. Tenggol Island: Relax On The Tranquil Beaches

A gorgeous view of Tenggol Island

Tenggol Island is one of the best islands in Malaysia for a tropical beach vacation. Loved by both locals and tourists, Tenggol Island is like a home away from home. It not only lets you enjoy privacy, but also comfort, making your holiday a beautiful memory you would cherish for a long time. If you are seeking tranquility then this is one of the best Malaysian islands.

Best For: Offering the vibes of a private tropical island, this is the best island in Malaysia for those looking to escape the crowds. Things To Do:

  • Enjoy diving at this hidden island in Malaysia
  • Spot the whale sharks
  • Soak in the panoramic views of the island from the hilltop

Best Time To Visit: April- September How To Reach: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu, and from there hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the small town of Kuala Dungun. After reaching the Kuala Dungun Jetty, take the 50-minute boat ride to reach the island.

Suggested Read: 15 Best Beaches In Singapore 

10. Redang Island: Witness Coral Reefs

A mesmerising view of Redang Island in Malaysia

Malaysia in July would the best time if you are planning a vacation there and If white sand beaches is not something that pleases your eyes, rest assured because this island offers a lot more than that. With plenty of wildlife and luxury resorts around, Redang island is the best island to spend your money and invest your time. This coral island in Malaysiais known for offering memorable experiences!

Best For: Lying amidst the crystal clear marine waters, this island is ideal for those who love every bit of luxury during their summer holiday. Things To Do:

  • Witness the pristine coral reefs while diving
  • Take a nature walk
  • Stay at a luxurious resort

Best Time To Visit: April – early October How To Reach: Head for Shahbandar jetty or Marang jetty from Kuala Terengganu, and take a ferry from there to reach the island directly.

11. Tioman Island: Click Pictures At The Waterfalls

A majestic view of Tioman Island

Named as one of the most beautiful islands in the world in 1970 by Time Magazine, Tioman island has more to offer than what just comes across. Its natural beauty and wildlife diversity still retains the magic of leaving one in awe.

Best For: One of the most famous Malaysia islands, Tioman is an ideal holiday place for those who love travelling without worrying about their budget. Things To Do:

  • Indulge in diving and snorkelling
  • Visit a turtle farm
  • Swim under the waterfalls

Best Time To Visit: March – October How To Reach: The only way to reach Tioman Island is by taking a direct ferry from either Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty, after getting to either of the jetties from Kuala Lumpur by air.

Suggested Read: A Vegetarian’s Guide To Malaysia

12. Perhentian Islands: Have Fun At The Bars

A breathtaking view of Perhentian Islands

One of the best islands in Malaysia for backpackers, this island is a hideaway waiting to be explored. The beaches are utterly gorgeous, and the accommodation is too cheap. Apart from diving, there’s also a tropical jungle for you to see.

Best For: The Perhentian Islands Malaysia is a shining gem amongst all the islands, and is perfect for budget travelers. Things To Do:

  • Try scuba walking
  • Chill at Tupai Beach Bar
  • Spot whale sharks and octopuses while diving with Turtle Bay

Best Time To Visit: March – November How To Reach: The only way to get to these islands is by taking a boat from Kuala Besut, which can be reached from either Kuala Terengganu or the Kota Bharu Airport. Both of these airports have direct connectivity with Kuala Lumpur.

13. Penang Island: Savour Some Local Food

An awe-inspiring view of Penang Island

If you’re looking for popular islands in Malaysia to visit in December, there’s nothing better than Penang island . Known for its cultural diversity, heritage, and cuisine, this large and colorful island offers all kinds of unique experiences.

Best For: Known for offering more than just beaches, Penang is one of the best islands in West Malaysia for those who are a foodie at heart or have an interest in heritage. Things To Do:

  • Explore the Penang National Park
  • Shop at Komtar
  • Indulge in Penang’s street food

Best Time To Visit: Mid November – mid-February How To Reach: While you can reach Penang Island by train, air, and even road. The best way is to either take a flight from any major city to the Penang International Airport located in Bayan Lepas, and then a direct taxi to the island. Or travel to Butterworth from the North-South Highway for four to five hours via road, and then take a ferry or the bridge to cross over to the island.

Suggested Read: 12 Malaysian Street Food Dishes 

14. Pangkor Island: Relish Scrumptious Seafood

A eye-catching view of Pangkor Island which is one of the amazing Malaysia Islands

This is not another beautiful island in Malaysia. The people here are friendly and the cuisine is lip-smacking, with resorts that offer the best of luxury. With its stunning beauty, a holiday on this island would definitely leave you spoilt. The breathtaking natural beauty makes Pangkor Island one of the must-visit islands in Malaysia.

Best For: If your heart beats for local culture and lifestyle, Pangkor Island is the best place to be. Things To Do:

  • Take a stroll on the beaches
  • Relish the scrumptious seafood
  • Stay at the Pangkor Laut Resort

Best Time To Visit: January and February and June – September How To Reach: Pangkor Island can be reached by taking a direct bus from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to Lumut, and then a ferry to the main island. However, you can also drive or rent a taxi from the city till Lumut if you’re willing to spend a bit more on fuel.

15. Langkawi: Enjoy Beach Hopping

A delightful view of Langkawi which is one of the popular Malaysia Islands

Langkawi island in Malaysia is the most popular island and Malaysia’s best known holiday destination, Langkawi flaunts the best beaches, mountains, rainforest, and mangrove wetlands. With so much to do and see here, every moment spent here would turn into a memory. And to make the best of your holiday experience here are some travel-tips for Langkawi .

Best For: An epitome of luxury, the best island in Malaysia is a hotspot for both honeymooners and families. Things To Do:

  • Enjoy the breathtaking views from the cable car ride
  • Visit Gunung Raya, the highest peak on the island
  • Go beach hopping

Best Time To Visit: January – March How To Reach: You can reach Langkawi by taking a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur if you wish to save your time. Though an adventurous way to get to the island is by taking a train from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore till Alor Setar, and then take a boat ride from there.

Suggested Read:  Scuba Diving In Malaysia

16. Payar Island: For Adventure Seekers

Pulau Payara Island

Another stunning island in Malaysia is Payar Island which is a hidden oasis located in the Straits of Melaka. The marine park in Payar Island is home to a handful of uninhabited islands that are located between Langkawi and mainland Kedah. This is one of the best islands to visit in Malaysia on an island vacation.

Best For: Watersports activities Things To Do:

  • Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
  • Grab scrumptious seafood

Best Time To Visit: March – June How To Reach: Can be easily reached via public transport from Langkawi and Kedah

17. Lang Tengah Island: Embrace Heaven

A jaw-dropping view of Lang Tengah Island which is one of the amazing Malaysia Islands

Lang Tengah Island is one of the many Terengganu’s privately owned Malaysian islands where only a few travellers find their way. The island is appreciated due its remoteness, unfiltered beauty, and seclusion. The water around the island plays host to a thriving marine ecosystem which can be witnessed once you make an underwater dive. Island is a host to only a handful of hotels and they get filled up within weeks.

Best For: A host to a thriving marine ecosystem, this place is perfect for nature lovers, and those who love indulging underwater activities. Things To Do:

  • Walking at the beach
  • Jungle trekking

Best Time To Visit: March – October How To Reach: You will have to take a speedboat to cover the distance of 40kms between Kuala Terengganu and Lang Tengah Island.

Suggested Read:  10 Islands Near Kuala Lumpur That Are A Must-Visit On Your Malaysia Trip

18. Sibu Island: Exclusivity Redefined

Turquoise waters of the Sibu Islands, Johor

Sibu island, the best island to visit in Malaysia, consist of four islands in the South China sea. Nothing boasts of seclusion as these four islands of Malaysia, not just because of the remoteness, but also because they house  two resorts only. This promotes exclusivity. This island will help you relax in all its earnesty, and it will ensure that you return to your lifestyle with happy memories. Here you can indulge in various activities that revolve around relaxation.

Best For: This place is a treat for people who are looking to unwind. You will feel yourself right in the lap of nature. Things To Do:

  • Long walks on the beach
  • Indulging in snorkeling
  • Indulge in fishing activities

Best Time To Visit: April – September How To Reach: You can take a taxi or avail public transport to reach Tanjung Leman. From Tanjung Leman, you can take a ferry to reach the island of Sibu.

19. Pom Pom Island: For A Variety Of Coral Species

Pom Pom Island is one of the majestic Malaysia Islands

Pom Pom Island is located about 30 Km Northeast of Semporna town, in the Celebes Sea. This is a perfect island in Malaysia for a short getaway from the busy city. Pom Pom is a part of a coral triangle and is surrounded with over 500 coral species. It is also a prominant feeding and nesting space for hawkbill and green turtles. This white sand beach is known as one of the best diving locations in the region.

Best For: This is a tiny island with beautiful views and rich marine life. It is best for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Things To Do:

  • Island hopping
  • Snorkelling

Best Time To Visit: May-August How To Reach: Fly to Semporna from Tawau Airport. Take a resort speed boat from Semporna to Pom Pom Island. It will take about 45 minutes to reach the destination on a boat.

Suggested Read: Malaysia In May

20. Pulau Tiga: Explore Mud Volcanoes

Tiga Island, Malaysia

When looking for the amazing M alaysia resort islands, Pulau  Tiga or Tiga Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia . It is located off the western coast of Sabah. It is one among the many small uninhabited islands in Kimanis Bay. Tiga island was formed by an earthquake that had hit Mindanao due to a volcanic eruption near the coast of Borneo Island. Pulau Tiga has some active mud volcanoes in its highest parts. The island is a part of the Tiga Island National Park, one of the best national parks in Malaysia . 

Best For: The island offers a variety of experiences both for adventure seekers and for those who are simply looking forward to a resort vacation. Things To Do:

  • Beaching on the tranquil shores
  • Hike the mud volcanoes
  • Luxury resort stay

Best Time To Visit: December – March How To Reach: Fly to Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Then drive to Kuala Penyu town and take a boat from here to reach the island. It will take you around 20 minutes to the destination.

21. Mantanani Islands: For The Wreck Diving

A gorgeous view of Mantanani Island, Malayasia

Mantanani Islands is a group of three islands – Mantanani Besar, Mantanani Kecil and Lungisan. It is located off the coast of Sabah towards its northwest. The island is known to for offering the best experiences of diving in Malaysia because of the three wrecks from the World War II period, located near it. Another aspect that makes diving near Mantanani interesting is that you get to see Dudongs. This is one of the best Malaysian islands to visit for exploring marine life.

Best For: The island is home to a variety of rare and migratory bird species. Exploring its various nature trails is one of the best experiences. Things To Do:

  • Birdwatching
  • Wreck diving
  • Nature trails

Best Time To Visit: February – April and June – October How To Reach: Take a flight to Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Board a bus or taxi from Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud. Reach the Kuala Abai jetty in Kota Belud and take a speedboat to the island. It will take an hour to reach the destination.

Further Read: Things To Do On A Family Trip To Singapore And Malaysia

So, which of these Malaysia islands are you planning to visit on your next trip to Malaysia ? Let us know in the comments below. We promise that you’ll have a blast and will not be disappointed by the bevy of activities that Malaysia has to offer you. Make sure to ask your family members and friends to tag along with you for a fun-filled memorable experience. It will be worth it!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Malaysia Islands

How many days do you need in Malaysia?

In order to make the most of your trip to the Southeast Asian country of Malaysia, you need around 7 days. On a 7-day trip, you can cover most of the happening spots in the country, taking back various memories.

Which is the best month to visit Malaysia?

To make your travel experience convenient and memorable, you should consider planning your Malaysia trip for the months of November, February and March, as this way you’ll be able to avoid heavy rainfalls.

What is the biggest island in Malaysia?

Banggi Island is considered to be the biggest island in the country of Malaysia. The island is spread over an area of 440 square kilometers. After this island comes Bruit Island, Langkawi Island, and Penang Island when the size is considered.

Which is the best beach in Malaysia?

There are various beaches in Malaysia that are a must-visit for a memorable trip. A few of them are: 1. Coral Beach 2. Long Beach 3. Gem Island Beach 4. Juara Beach 5. Monkey Bay Beach

How many islands are in Malaysia?

Being home to a lot of archipelagos, Malaysia has around 878 islands, most of which are still not inhabited. Some of the popular ones you can visit are Langkawi, Perhentian Islands, Redang Island, Pangkor, and more.

Which is the most beautiful island in Malaysia?

Perhentian Islands are the most beautiful island of Pulau in Malaysia. However, Langkawi, Sipadan, and Redang islands are also gorgeous when it comes to natural beauty.

Which is the best island in Malaysia for a honeymoon?

Both Langkawi and Mataking Island are perfect hotspots for honeymooners.

Which are the best island resorts in Malaysia?

Here are some of the best island resorts in Malaysia: 1. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa – Langkawi Island 2. Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa – Gaya Island 3. Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa – Sabah 4. Pangkor Laut Resort – Jalan Utama Marina Island 5. Casa del Mar Langkawi – Langkawi Island

Which are the best wreck diving spots in Malaysia?

Some of the best wreck diving spots in Malaysia are: 1. Labuan, Miri Borneo 2. Kapas Island 3. Tenggol Island 4. Mantanani Islands

Which are top national parks in Malaysia?

The national parks in Malaysia include: 1. Gunung Mulu National Park 2. Bako National Park 3. Tiga Island National Park 4. Penang National Park 5. Lambir Hills National Park

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Check out some of the exciting and interactive attractions at this Johor theme park

Wednesday, 08 May 2024

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Digital banks will not affect traditional banks in malaysia, foreign leaders praise malaysia for organising int'l conference of religious leaders, the charming pint-sized festive greetings found throughout the local mosques in miniland amazing malaysia offer a delightful touch, enhancing the aidilfitri atmosphere. – photos: daryl goh/the star.

In the heart of Legoland, amid a Lego “ketupat” hunt, the tunes of the season echo (with an irreverent dose of Alamak Raya Lagi, mind you), ensuring this Hari Raya Aidilfitri season is a memorable one for those visiting the theme park.

It’s almost like visiting an open house celebration, but with the added dopamine rush of exploring a sprawling theme park.

As you step through Legoland’s gates in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, the “Nostalgia Raya” festivities greet you, extending until May 12.

So you still have time to make a dash to the brick paradise for this Raya swing, which has friendly staff ready to guide visitors through a series of Raya pop-ups, featuring activities like Lego “ketupat-weaving”, batik-painting and Lego lantern-making.

Watch out for the life-sized Lego figures when you finish taking photos with the beca (trishaw) to avoid knocking them over. The festive welcome from the staff was just the start, setting the stage for the high-energy adventures that awaited within the theme park.

For both newcomers and seasoned annual pass holders alike, Legoland remains a theme park full of surprises.

A young boy taking part in a Lego ketupat-making activity, which is part of the 'Nostalgia Raya' festive season programme at Legoland.

Staying at the Legoland Hotel nearby is an excellent way to ensure that families and kids get into full bricking mode, with brick pits in the hotel lobby, oversized foam blocks in the swimming pool, and themed rooms featuring favourites like Ninjago and Friends.

Since its launch in September 2012, Legoland has expanded significantly, adding numerous park attractions over the years. The park has introduced new franchise attractions and integrated local content, offering visitors something refreshing every time they visit.

Like any trip to a theme park, the secret is to pace yourself and create the perfect experience through careful planning. Or, if you prefer, you could simply embrace spontaneity and let the kids decide on whatever sparks their fancy (it’s their day out, after all).

A must-see among the new attractions is Miniland Amazing Malaysia (introduced last year), celebrating the nation’s iconic landmarks and cultural sites while showcasing its remarkable architecture.

Numerous attractions, locally developed at the Legoland Model Shop in Johor Baru, showcase the theme park’s evolution through a diverse array of homegrown highlights.

The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly, the largest Lego model in Miniland Amazing Malaysia, is a breathtaking build.

The Lego version of Masjid Jamek, among Kuala Lumpur’s oldest mosques, is a miniature marvel, accentuated by the delightful touch of a Hari Raya banner adorning it for the season.

Red bricks, you say? Well, behold Melaka’s Dutch-era buildings, including The Stadthuys, featured bright and bold in Miniland. And don’t miss the meticulously mapped downtown Johor Baru, offering a glimpse into the local area.

For a “yabba-dabba-doo” treat, try to spot the cute Lego tribute to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim King of Malaysia’s Fred Flintstone mobile, while the trophy-laden JDT team bus parade is Lego gold for football fans in Johor.

While the real Sarawak State Legislative Assembly offers amazing night-time lights for your holiday photo album, the Legoland version, the largest model in Miniland Amazing Malaysia, is also a sight to behold.

A team of eight builders used an astounding 200,000 bricks to construct it.

Miniland, an attraction for all ages, now also features added canopies and shade structures, encouraging visitors to admire other highlights in Asia, like the intricate Angkor Wat and majestic Taj Mahal, at leisure.

Relax and enjoy the journey; brick travel has a way of transporting you to exotic destinations.

The cinematic adventure at Legoland also extends beyond mere viewing – it’s an immersive experience with 4D technology. Don’t miss the newest attraction: the Lego Friends 4D movie.

Settle into the cinema hall among excited children, and brace yourself for a “splash” of a 15-minute film that bursts from the screen, providing you with a full sensory experience.

With more than 40 interactive attractions, it’s wise to plan your Legoland adventure carefully.

What’s a theme park without a trek?

There is no denying the heat and weather conditions in Malaysia can significantly impact your visit to Legoland, especially if you’re accompanied by toddlers and young children (and grandparents too!).

However, the park is strategically designed with numerous shady areas and rest stops, and there are plenty of options to seamlessly switch between indoor and outdoor activities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

As you gear up for your walkabout, make sure to strap on your fitness watch to keep tabs on your steps, track your distance, and watch those calories melt away (even if you indulge in a burger, a large tub of fries, or two ice creams, no worries) as you wander through the themed areas (all eight of them).

At Legoland, with over 40 interactive attractions – rides and shows – for thrill-seekers, curious learners, and families seeking adventure-packed day trips or quick getaways, every moment counts.

If you encounter queues, remember to have an ample supply of water to stay hydrated before embarking on outdoor activities with the family.

At Lego City Driving School, budding drivers can navigate their way through realistic streets and traffic signals, honing their skills behind the wheel (while overly anxious parents call out to their kids from the curb to “stay in your lane!”). The Lego Mindstorms Workshop provides an interactive experience where enthusiasts can explore (basic) robotics and engineering through hands-on activities.

Adventure awaits at Lego Ninjago, where visitors can test their agility on the rock-climbing wall or embark on an exhilarating 4D ride and unleash their Spinjitzu skills to defeat The Great Devourer (even bewildered grandparents, dragged along by their grandkids, will be getting into this one).

When you’re wilting from the heat and overloaded from the rides, take a break in areas like “Build and Test” in Imagination, or Rebuild The World in Planet Legoland. The latter sparks creativity with building challenges, encouraging children to unleash their imagination by constructing everything from innovative modes of transportation to enchanting deep-sea creatures and musical instruments, showcasing the limitless possibilities of the Lego universe.

Like all great adventures, the fun must eventually come to an end, even if you’ve been enjoying yourself since the doors opened at 10am until they close at 6pm.

If you find yourself wanting more Legoland at the end of the day, swing by the main merchandise store (appropriately named The Big Store, complete with child-sized shopping trolleys) and snag a Legoland replica, or an in-store exclusive or three, to keep the adventure alive at home.

More info: legoland.com.my.

Legoland's festive treats

The sarawak state legislative assembly, the largest lego model in miniland amazing malaysia, is a breathtaking build., for a ‘splash’ of a cinema experience, don’t miss the new lego friends 4d movie., the rebuild the world area sparks creativity with building challenges, encouraging children to unleash their imagination., a young boy taking part in a lego ketupat-making activity, which is part of the 'nostalgia raya' festive season programme at legoland., with more than 40 interactive attractions, it’s wise to plan your legoland adventure carefully., after a day packed with fun at legoland, you'll feel as exhausted as the knight in the 'kingdoms' themed area., the dragon rollercoaster sweeps visitors on an exhilarating journey back to the middle ages. - filepic.

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Tags / Keywords: Legoland , Sarawak State Legislative Assembly , Hari Raya Aidilfitri , Ninjago and Friends , Masjid Jamek , Miniland Amazing Malaysia , tourism , domestic tourism , school holidays

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    Kuala Lumpur. Lake Gardens, Brickfields & Bangsar. Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas. Sabah. Sarawak. Penang. Pahang & Tioman Island. Perak. Explore Malaysia holidays and discover the best time and places to visit.

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    Penang is the top destination for food, drink and sensory pleasures. Penang's foodie status is uncontested. Travelers flock from across Malaysia (and beyond) to experience Gurney Drive's seafood restaurants, slurp Penang laksa at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls, and follow their noses to barbecued seafood at the Chew Jetties.But even beyond the sizzle of char kway teow (rice noodles with prawns ...

  6. THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Malaysia (UPDATED 2024)

    8. Bavilinon. 4,177. Shopping Malls. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is an award-winning shopping mall located in the heart of Bukit Bintang, Malaysia's shopping paradise. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur brings the best of retail with a nett lettable area of over 1.7 million square feet, 700 stores and 8 themed precincts.

  7. 15 of the best things to do in Malaysia

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

  8. Malaysia Travel Guide 2024 · Itineraries, Top Places, Beaches

    A Travel Guide to Malaysia with ️ Travel Itineraries, ️ Top places to visit in 2024, ️ Beautiful coastlines and beaches, and more! ... One of the most important things you need to do before your Malaysia holiday is purchase travel insurance. This gives you assurance for unexpected accidents - for example, an injury, canceled flight, or ...

  9. Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary in 2024

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

  10. Malaysia: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)

    Malaysia is a beautifully complex vacation destination, a land where ancient rainforests give way to multicultural city life. Capital city Kuala Lumpur is visually defined by the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, while in charming Melaka the vibe is more quaint and historical. Many of the country's national parks offer opportunities for fantastic ...

  11. 25 Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 2024

    3. Taman Negara National Park. Taman Negara is the largest national park on the Malay Peninsula. In fact, the name Taman Negara literally translates from Malay to English as 'National Park'. It's an area of rainforest and wildlife, one of the last surviving areas in the country outside of Malaysian Borneo.

  12. 10 Days in Malaysia: The Perfect Malaysia Itinerary

    Our 10-day Malaysia itinerary will take you from Malaysia's multicultural capital, along the western coast to the diverse city of Malacca, into the cool mountains of the Cameron Highlands and then north to the islands of Penang and Langkawi. If you have more than 10 days in Malaysia, then once you get back to Kuala Lumpur, you can even fly ...

  13. Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Destinations You Can't Miss

    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 ...

  14. The best Malaysia holiday destinations: Where to stay and when to travel

    The best time to visit Redang Island is between April and August because resorts are generally closed during the winter months when the monsoon season occurs. The daily temperatures are around 25 ...

  15. 10 best Malaysia islands to visit

    Sipadan: The only oceanic island in Malaysia, Sipadan rises 600 metres (2,000 ft) from the seabed. It is located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. Tourism Malaysia. Penang ...

  16. Top 42 Places To Visit In Malaysia That You Must See During Holidays

    16. Putrajaya. Located at a distance of 25 km from the city of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya is one of the most relaxing Malaysia attractions you can visit. Spreading to an area of 5,000 hectares, this is the third Federal Territory in the country that is designed with a complete European touch.

  17. 15 things to know before going to Malaysia

    6. Partying is a bit more expensive. Compared to its backpacker-centric Southeast Asian neighbors Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, Malaysia is a more expensive party destination because of heavy taxes on alcohol, which is forbidden to Muslims. The rest of the population is free to drink but forced to pay a higher price.

  18. 45 Malaysia Tour Packages (2024): Best Deals on Trips & Holidays

    8. Tioman Island: Tioman Island is located in Rompin District of Pahang, Malaysia. The 20km long and 11km wide island has cascading waterfalls, rigoruous jungles, laid-back fishing villages and idyllic beaches. Major area of the island is forest cover and is a habitat to a variety of flora and fauna.

  19. Malaysia Holidays 2024/2025

    Guide Price: £1,599pp. Experience the ultimate twin centre by combining a luxury beach break and a visit to one of Asia's great cities. Explore Kuala Lumpur from the perfectly located Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, with its blend of contemporary décor, urban chic and a superb rooftop pool and bar.

  20. Top 35 Places To Visit In Malaysia (Read This Before Travel ...

    29. Redang Island. Another elegant island located 45km off the coast of Terengganu is Redang Island. It is famous places to visit in Malaysia for its dazzling blue water; snow white beach and it boasts many tropical fishes inhabiting the coral reefs too.

  21. 21 Malaysia Islands To Visit In 2024: Top Attractions & Things To Do!

    5. Mabul Island: Go Try Kayaking. Image Source. A hidden island in Malaysia and counted among the Malaysia islands near Kuala Lumpur, Mabul is one of the best Malaysian beach holiday destinations. The island boasts pristine beaches with coconut trees, soft white sand, and emerald water.

  22. Holiday Tours & Travel

    At Holiday Tours, we believe that you should travel the world, your way. As one of Malaysia's largest travel agencies, we co-create personalised, tailor-made experiences for discerning travellers who seek unique holidays and business trips. Explore our unique content, and start making your travel plans into a reality.

  23. Check out some of the exciting and interactive attractions at this

    While the real Sarawak State Legislative Assembly offers amazing night-time lights for your holiday photo album, the Legoland version, the largest model in Miniland Amazing Malaysia, is also a ...

  24. For Labour Day break, Chinese tourists journey to Japan, visa-free

    Wang Xin, a travel agent with Beijing Tianping International Travel, who specialises in visa services, said the number of people seeking South Korean travel visa services had dropped by at least a ...