Malaysia is one of the most vibrant and diverse countries in Southeast Asia. Here’s a guide on what to see and do in Malaysia, including the best places to visit and must-do activities.
Surprisingly, not many people are familiar with Malaysia. Most tourists who come tend to stay only in Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital, which houses one of Southeast Asia’s busiest airports, KLIA. In 2017 alone, this airport handled over 58 million passengers. Malaysia, often overlooked as a tourist destination, deserves a spot on your travel list.
Why should you visit Malaysia? The country is brimming with attractions. From beaches and islands to jungles and rare animals, there’s also modern architecture, amusement parks, and, perhaps most importantly, extraordinarily friendly people!
Malaysia is incredibly diverse, with a rich multicultural fabric. You’ll notice Chinese and Indian influences everywhere. As one of the most diverse countries in Asia, Malaysia features Buddhist temples, mosques, and Hindu temples all in close proximity. The food stalls showcase an array of culinary delights, and you’ll see signs in multiple languages: English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. These different cultures blend together, making Malaysia truly unique.
Intrigued? Here are eight fantastic places to visit in Malaysia:
1. Kuala Lumpur: Kick off your exploration in the capital, which is teeming with sights and landmarks. Beyond its iconic skyscrapers and the world’s tallest twin towers, Kuala Lumpur offers parks, lush nature, impressive temples, museums, mosques, and traditional neighborhoods just steps away from the Petronas Towers. While Penang is the country’s food capital, Kuala Lumpur is a great starting point to sample Indian, Chinese, and Malaysian cuisines, especially in bustling food markets like Bukit Bintang and Chinatown.
2. Langkawi: This archipelago of 99 islands off the west coast is a popular beach destination for both tourists and locals. Despite the influx of new hotels and increasing tourist numbers, Langkawi remains a tranquil retreat. Although it may not have the finest beaches or the bluest waters, its natural beauty is unparalleled. Trek to the summit of Gunung Mat Cincang, the island’s second-highest peak, drive up Gunung Raya to watch the sunset, swim in the natural pools at the Seven Wells Waterfall, or relax in the hot springs of Ayer Hangat Village.
3. Penang: Known as Malaysia’s food capital, Penang is renowned for its street food, with some claiming it to be one of the best foodie cities in Asia. Don’t miss local favorites like Curry Mee, Penang Asam Laksa, Penang Teochew Chendul, and Ais Kacang. In addition to its culinary delights, visit Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and a key pilgrimage site in Southeast Asia.
4. Perhentian Islands: These stunning islands off the eastern coast are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The two main islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, cater to tourists looking for relaxation and water activities. Unlike Langkawi, there’s not much else to do here, making it an ideal spot for a serene beach holiday.
5. Kuala Sepetang: This small fishing village in Perak, near Taiping, is a hidden gem worth visiting. The village is characterized by stilt houses on water, each with its own traditional fishing boat docked at a pier. This setting provides a nostalgic glimpse into the past. Be sure to visit the nearby Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve.
6. Malacca: If you’re short on time, Malacca is a fantastic option, just a two-and-a-half hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur. A former Portuguese colony, Malacca beautifully showcases Malaysia’s diversity, reflecting European influence alongside Chinese and Indian cultural elements.
7. Mount Kinabalu: Standing at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and is located on Borneo Island (East Malaysia), requiring a flight from Kuala Lumpur in West Malaysia. Join a group tour to climb the mountain; no specialized equipment or skills are necessary, though good physical fitness is required.
8. Kuching: This city on Borneo Island might have derived its name from the Malay word for cat. It’s a feline enthusiast’s haven with cat statues, souvenirs, a cat museum, and the Meow Meow Cat Café. Enjoying a snack and a cuppa with some furry companions makes for a delightful experience in this unique city.
With these diverse and remarkable destinations, Malaysia offers a rich and memorable travel experience.