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15 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the Capital of Malaysia and one of the largest cities in Asia, is a bustling city which offers plenty to do for everyone.

You could visit the iconic Petronas Towers, get lost in Chinatown, or take in some nature by exploring the Botanical Gardens and Bird Park.

Kuala Lumpur — or KL, as the locals call it — is so big and has so much to offer that you could probably spend a lifetime exploring it and still find daily surprises within the city.

However, if you find yourself in this modern city, it would be a shame if you didn’t take the time to check out some of the other amazing places that mainland Malaysia has to offer.

Here, you will find the best neighboring places to take a day trip to while getting out of the big city and exploring beautiful Malaysia.

1. Batu Caves

Batu Caves is the easiest destination to get to on our list and can be reached in a short time, either by car or train since it is only about 13 kilometers outside of the city.

The caves are free to enter but be prepared for a little exercise; the entrance is located at the top of 272 stairs. The limestone caves consist of three large caverns as well as several smaller caves off the main rooms.

Inside the caves, there are several Hindu shrines and Swamis to view, and outside of the caves, there is a giant statue of Lord Murgan.

If you are lucky enough to go on a clear day, you will get a great view of the KL skyline from atop the stairs.

Recommended tour :  Kuala Lumpur: Private Tour to the Batu Caves

2. Kuala Selangor

Heading west out of Kuala Lumpur, you will reach the small coastal town of Kuala Selangor. It is home to the largest firefly colony in the world, which creates an amazing scene every night.

The best way to view the fireflies is on a relaxing boat tour up the Selangor river with a local guide, who will give you lots of information about the area.

If the fireflies aren’t enough for you, Kuala Selangor is also home to the Melawati Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot countless rare birds and monkeys. If you find yourself hungry, make sure to try some of the local seafood that is caught fresh daily.

Suggested tour :  Kuala Selangor: Fireflies Tour with Batu Caves & Dinner

3. Genting Highlands

If you are feeling lucky, make sure to take a trip out to Genting Highlands, Malaysia’s only casino resort located in the beautiful mountains just north of Kuala Lumpur.

If gambling isn’t your thing that’s fine, you can enjoy the huge indoor/outdoor theme park. With roller coasters, the only skydiving simulator in Asia, and many more rides, it is sure to get adrenaline pumping through your veins.

Lastly, don’t forget the chance to go on the longest and fastest cable car in Asia that will provide you with stunning views of the rainforest beneath.

Available tour : From Kuala Lumpur: Genting Highlands and Batu Caves Day Trip

4. Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands are 200 kilometers outside of Kuala Lumpur and the journey takes about three hours each way.

The drive alone is worth it, as it takes you through beautiful green forests before arriving at Malaysia’s largest highlands resort.

The temperatures are cooler and the air is noticeably fresher in the Cameron Highlands which makes it a great place to escape to during the warm summer months.

Visiting the tea plantations and sipping on a nice warm cup of tea is a must. You can also pick strawberries on strawberry farms, wander through rose gardens, and visit butterfly and honeybee farms.

If you are feeling extra brave, take a dip in the freezing cold waters of Lata Iskandar waterfall.

Recommended tour :  From Kuala Lumpur: Cameron Highlands Private Full Day Tour

Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a charming little town — much different than the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur.

Malacca was once home to both Portuguese and Dutch settlers, and you can still see many signs of both cultures in the small town. If you want to learn more about the early settlers, visit the Malacca Museum, located in bright pink buildings which used to be home to Dutch administrative offices.

Walking down Jonker Street is a must; if you are lucky enough to be in Malacca on the weekend, Jonker Street is home to the biggest market in the town, where you can try all different kinds of local food.

Available tour :  Full-Day Trip to Historical Malacca from Kuala Lumpur

Bentong is a quaint little town that was originally built by tin miners after they found tin in the Perting and Repas rivers.

Bentong is the perfect place to escape to if you are tired of the rush in Kuala Lumpur and looking for some peace and quiet. It is off the beaten path of tourists and home to both delicious food and nature.

If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try some of the local homemade ice cream or the pineapple puffs.

If you are feeling adventurous, go try some of the infamous smelly durian fruit at Jimmy’s Durian Orchard.

7. Taman Negara

If you are a nature enthusiast and love spending time in the great outdoors, then Taman Negara is an absolute must. People literally travel from all over the world to get the chance to explore one of the most biodiverse places on our planet.

Taman Negara is home to some of the rarest animals alive today and is one of the oldest rainforests on earth.

Day treks with local guides are available or you can do multi-day treks if you are up for sleeping out with the wildlife. Boat rides and a canopy walk are also possible while in Taman Negara.

Recommended tour :  From Kuala Lumpur: Private Full Day Tour to Taman Negara

Klang is not the most common day trip from Kuala Lumpur but it has more than enough attractions to create a fun day.

Klang has a large Indian population and a lot of Indian influence and this is transparent in some of the most interesting places in the city.

Little India is a great place to start your trip to Klang and some of the mosques, like Masjid India Klang, are also beautiful to visit.

If you are looking to do any shopping on your day trip from KL, Klang also has great malls.

Klang Parade and the Big Mall are just two of the many large shopping complexes that you can end up finding yourself spending money in for hours.

9. Bukit Tinggi

In Bukit Tinggi, the most popular activity is exploring the Colmar Tropical Resort, which feels like you are walking through a 16th-century French village. The buildings are all constructed in old European architecture, there are delicious French bakeries, and there are even cobblestone streets.

If you are up for more walking, you can hike up to the Japanese Gardens and enjoy an authentic cup of tea and a spa.

There are no public buses that go to Bukit Tinggi, so plan accordingly; you can either take a private shuttle bus from Kuala Lumpur or hire a taxi, but that would most likely be quite an expensive trip.

Ipoh is well-regarded as a culinary hot spot within Malaysia. In the local markets of Ipoh, you will find all different kinds of exotic food to taste. When it’s time for a proper meal, make sure to try either the Ipoh chicken rice or the shredded chicken noodle’s.

Once your stomach is full of food, head over to Nam Heong, home of the world-famous Ipoh White Coffee.

Walking around Ipoh, you will also find many small, hidden temples and some fascinating street art.

The perfect place to end the day is soaking in the hot springs of The Lost World of Tambun.

11. Fraser’s Hill

Fraser’s Hill is full of popular hiking trails and a great place to escape from the city. Even though it is one of the most popular places to go outside of Kuala Lumpur — since there are lots of different trails and activities — you can easily avoid the people.

Along the trails, there are countless small waterfalls and hundreds of different species of birds. If bird watching is really your thing, you can hire a private guide to take you out.

If you are more of a golfer, tee off at the Royal Fraser’s Hill Golf Club.

12. Pulau Ketam

Pulau Ketam — or Crab Island — is a small fishing village to the west of Kuala Lumpur that has been completely built upon stilts over mangrove swamps.

Even though it is not located far from KL, you could not envision a place that is more different.

The people here are almost all fisherman and seeing them hard at work during the day or night is an impressive sight.

It is famous for its fresh seafood, so make sure to indulge and try as many of the different local foods as you can.

13. Putrajaya

Putrajaya is not normally on the tourist map but it has many things to offer. Putrajaya is the federal administrative capital of Malaysia and home to some of the most famous landmarks in Malaysia.

On a walking tour of the city, you can see the pink-domed Putra Mosque, the Prime Minister’s office, Seri Perdana, and a handful of famous bridges.

The Natural History Museum houses many Malaysian national treasures and is also a great place to learn about local plants, animals, and geological rock formations.

If you want to escape the urban landscapes, check out the botanical gardens, home to over 700 plant species.

14. Port Dickson

For anyone looking to relax at the beach and soak up some rays, this is the ideal day trip getaway. There are over 11 miles of beaches to choose from, so you will be able to find a calm and quiet place for yourself.

The Blue Lagoon is the most popular swimming spot along the coast and is a great place to take a dip if you are so inclined.

If you want to work up a sweat before going in the water, hike up to the Cape Rachado lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

15. Sekinchan

Malaysia is not as well known for their rice fields as some other Asian countries, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have any.

Sekinchan has field after field of rice paddies that you can wander around and has scenic views year-round.

The local fishing village catches fresh seafood daily, so after you have worked up an appetite, go and dine on some local seafood and rice that grew right where you were just walking.

If you want to learn more about the rice and how it is grown and produced, visit the Paddy Processing Gallery.

Lastly, don’t forget to make all your wishes come true by visiting Sekinchan’s Wishing Tree.

15 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur:

• Kuala Selangor
• Genting Highlands
• Cameron Highlands
• Taman Negara
• Bukit Tinggi
• Fraser’s Hill
• Pulau Ketam
• Port Dickson

Travel & Expat Blog

18 relaxing short getaways from kuala lumpur, what's on this page.

Looking for a list of relaxing weekend getaways from Kuala Lumpur? As a local with a passion for travel, I’ve rounded up my favourite stays to help you plan your trip.

O ne of the biggest perks as a teacher expat in KL are all the knockout holidays. With bags of beach retreats, tropical islands, zen-busting jungle escapes and culture trips, Malaysia doesn’t fall short on epic vacations. And what’s equally awesome, is that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy them.

For those lazy weekends or week-long staycations where you don’t fancy travelling that far or want the option to just jump in the car and head somewhere green or blue, I thought I’d round up all my favourite trips on the Malay Peninsula, aka West Malaysia.

In this post you’ll find a carefully curated, 2-years-in-the-making list of getaways from Kuala Lumpur that I recommend to my friends. And just for you guys I’ve added some inspiring bonus breaks still on my bucket list (in case you get there before I do), plus a handful that come highly-rated by fellow expats.

Ready for some quality Malaysia juice for your holiday planning? Grab a cuppa because this one’s pretty meaty! 🤙🏻

What to expect

Whilst it may not be as cheap to holiday in Malaysia compared to other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Cambodia, you still get a lot of bang for your buck. Generally, a 5* resort here will cost about half that of the UK, with a decent array of no frills budget stays.

Compared to other countries in the region, I also find travelling in Malaysia a lot easier. Communicating and getting around is simple as most Malaysians speak good English, the infrastructure is more developed and car travel is relatively easy-breezy ( tips below ). I’ve always found Malaysians to be very fair and honest too so I’ve never had to worry about being overcharged for services, unlike quite a few experiences elsewhere.

Travel Hack!

If you’re booking hotels in Malaysia but you’re based outside of the country, then change your VPN to a Malaysian network for cheaper rates on hotel sites like Booking.com. I noticed this when I was in Australia booking stays in Malaysia and couldn’t figure out why it was more expensive!

List Of My Favourite Short Getaways From Kuala Lumpur

1. Country Retreat : Mangala Resort & Spa

Location: Gambang, near Kuantan on the east coast Getting there: 2h30 drive from KL

This is one of the nicest, most relaxing stays I’ve had in Malaysia. After an easy drive from KL, you’re transported to a nature haven, filled with 60 acres of gorgeous wetlands, lakes and fruit farms.

As well as the lush environment, fresh air and ace hospitality, we were also won over by the incredible luxury villas. Our suite was spacious and beautifully kitted out with a private pool – it was such as bonus.

I thought I’d miss being by the beach staying here, but I didn’t at all. It’s just as chilled, if not more, and you’re surrounded by water all the time anyway.

Days can be spent lazing around your private pool, or the communal infinity pool and jacuzzi which overlooks the lake. Or grab a free bicycle and leisurely peddle through the palm trees before heading to the spa and indulging in a heavenly massage (highly recommend!).

Read more about Mangala Resort in my recent article .

Cost: Starting at around RM 635 per night (approx. $220 AUD or £123 GBP). For the best rates and Genius discounts, I booked my room via  Booking.com .

2. Private Island Escape: Pangkor Laut

Location: West peninsular in Perak, off Pangkor island Getting there: 3-hour drive north of KL, followed by a 15 15-minute speedboat ride

This is, by far, the most luxurious resort I’ve ever stayed at. I don’t do them often! But when a 5* resort on a private island is on your doorstep, it’d be rude to turn it down. Especially when it costs less to stay here than a bog-standard hotel in London’s Notting Hill.

Pavarotti once described this island as a paradise, and I’d say he was bang on. Pangkor Laut island is made up of 300 acres of lush virgin rainforest, which has been virtually untouched by the resort. Wild hornbills roam freely, the jungle hums loudly and eco tourism is encouraged here. That’s my perfect kind of cocktail.

Our room was insane. So much so, that the Sailor and I were taking pictures for about half an hour when we arrived! It was well kitted out with his and her sinks, an outdoor bathtub and incredible jaw-dropping views from our hilltop verandah.

Morning coffees with that scenery were made extra special with hornbills perched above us in the trees and the gentle buzzing of the ancient rainforest.

Mostly you come here to relax, but there’s a few things to do on the island like taking a hike through the rainforest to Emerald Bay Beach, which I’d highly recommend.

Pangkor Laut Resort is ideal for that special occasion and definitely one of those getaways from Kuala Lumpur you should experience [at least] once. Check out my latest article  to find out more details.

Cost: Not cheap, but worth it for a treat. Rooms start at around RM 1’100 per night (approx. $390 AUD or £213 GBP). For genius discounts, free cancellation & a pay later option, book via Booking.com . Or if you live in Malaysia then you can book a resident’s package directly with the resort which includes all food and boat transfers.

3. Quick Beach Getaway: Langkawi

Location:  Off the northwestern peninsular, in Kedah Getting there: 1-hour flight from KL, or a 6-hour drive to Kuala Perlis + a 1.25hr ferry

To be truthful, I wasn’t a big fan of Langkawi when I first visited. Compared to other large holiday islands in Thailand like Koh Phangan and Koh Chang, I thought it was a bit plain Jane. This was probably because I stayed in a really crappy apartment (which wasn’t at all as described in the reviews!) in an area of the island that was a bit run down. And that was the last time I let the Sailor book a holiday!

But the second time was a completely different experience. I booked a much nicer stay on a better part of the island and got to experience those chillaxed island feels that KLites eat up for breakfast. I guess, you’ve just got to know where to go.

If you want an island escape a mere hour’s flight from KL and land [almost] on the beach, then Langkawi is probably the only place you’re going to get it. I had many teacher friends who regularly visited the island and one who went 12 times in three years! Needless to say, it’s a convenient beach getaway.

Cenang Beach is the main tourist spot and can get a little commercial (although it’s still relatively quiet by Thai standards), but it has the goods to back it up with powder-soft white sand and turquoise water. It’s a pukka sundowner spot or place to beach-bum for the day.

There’s quite a bit to explore either on the beach or in the jungle, which I unfortunately didn’t have much time for. You should check out Langkawi blogger Vanessa Workman at This Island Drum for some good recommendations.

Langkawi is also a great one for families due to the easy transfer, more family friendly hotels and developed infrastructure. If you’re a luxury resort seeker, then the island houses many high-end stays.

Accommodation:  I stayed just south of Cenang at Aloft Hotel , which was a 5 minute walk from Tengah Beach. It’s more peaceful down this way and there’s an awesome beach bar you should check out called Dash Beach Club . Prices starting at around RM 430 per night (approx. $150 AUD or £83 GBP).

4. Small Island Vibes: Koh Lipe

Location:  Near the Thai/Malaysian border on the west coast (in the Adang-Rawi Archipelago) Getting there: Head to Langkawi (see above) then take a 1h30 boat ride ~ NOTE: This option is only available in the dry season folks (October to late June) as the boat route ceases for monsoon. Otherwise you’ve got to take the long speedboat ride from Phuket.

This little gem oozes those small island vibes that Langkawi misses. Often described as the Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe offers affordable luxury. With extra-fine powdery white sand that crunches between your toes and show-stopping crystalline water. Once you’ve experienced Koh Lipe’s coastline you might, just might run the risk of becoming a bit of a beach snob! 😳

Idle days can spent catching up on beach time, or kayaking to secluded ones on neighbouring Koh Adang. This equally beautiful island is also a good spot for some jungle hiking, offering a waterfall in the wet season and a top-to-toe lookout of Koh Lipe.

However, it’s worth noting that Koh Lipe it’s still continuing to grow in popularity and can get relatively busy during peak seasons. I was quite surprised at how much busier it was the second time I visited.

Whilst it’s still not as bad as many Thai islands in the northern Andaman (as it’s the farthest south), we can still do our little bit to help ensure our stay doesn’t put unnecessary strain on this little island.

Accommodation: Although I didn’t manage to stay at Castaway Resort because each time I tried to book they were full, the accommodation looks like great value for money and the restaurant was always my go-to for lip-smacking Thai food. Prices start at around RM 127  per night (approx. $45 AUD or £24 GBP).

5. Rainforest Haven: The Dusun

Location: Seremban, opposite the Berembun Forest Reserve Getting there:  1h30 drive, just south of KL

I love this little place. There are plenty of jungle stays near KL but The Dusun ticks all the boxes for me- complete with comfy accommodation, remoteness and undisturbed views of virgin rainforest.

At every glance was a majestic sea of green which came alive with the gentle buzzing of well-chorused cicadas. Honestly, I came here feeling under the weather and was miraculously well again after 10 minutes of checking in … this place has healing powers!

There’s not much to do here apart from pool hang, wind down and let the scenery do the talking – which is why its such a chilled getaway. You’re willingly encouraged to slow down and be at one with nature, and yourself.

It was also really great that the resort is self-catering with a kitchen in each bungalow (including a BBQ), making it feel like a home away from home. But if you can’t be bothered, they have a restaurant on site too. Read more about The Dusun Resort in my post .

Cost:  Starting at around RM480 per night (approx. $170 AUD) via Booking.com . I booked the Lanai House which was nicely secluded and not overlooked. It was slightly more expensive, but totally worth it.

6. Awesome Value For Money Islands: Perhentians

Location:  On the northwest coast, in state of Terengganu Getting there:  Take a 1hr flight to Kota Bharu, then a 1h taxi ride to the jetty, followed by a 40min boat ride to the islands. See more details in my article .

Note: The Perhentians is only available outside of the Monsoon season (late Jan/beginning of Feb – late October) as the boat ride ceases and most resorts close.

In Peninsular Malaysia, you have to head to the east coast islands for Maldivian-style beaches. Thankfully the Perhentians not only has heaps to explore- with awesome snorkelling- but the islands are great value for money compared to many other touristy ones along this coastline.

Both coral-fringed islands (Besar ‘big’ and Kecil ‘small’) offer serene turquoise seas and powdery white sand. Nowhere is too far, and nothing runs too fast.

They were the first inhabited islands I’ve visited that don’t have roads, and it was awesome being forced into barefoot luxury. Forget Uber guys, you can sink your toes in the sand and leisurely stroll from bed to beach, or take a cheap boat taxi to explore the islands.

Other than beach lounging, snorkelling, and eating your weight in fresh seafood BBQ’s (head to Tuna Bay Resort for that goodness) it was fun to leave the sun bathers behind and take a peaceful jungle hike (check out my hiking route for Kecil and Besar ) – earning your beach time is always more satisfying.

Accommodation: 5-star resorts don’t exist here and rooms are generally quite pricey for what you get, but there’s some good value-for-money stays to consider which you can check out my article .

7. Culture Trip: Penang

Location:  This ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is located on the northwest peninsular Getting there:  Drive in about 4hrs, or take a 1 hr flight

Penang is like Melaka’s bigger and better brother and by far Malaysia’s food and culture capital.

And nope, it’s not where the Penang curry originates and it’s nothing like Phuket (just me that had those assumptions? 🤷🏻‍♀️ ..the cheese stands alone!). In fact, if you haven’t been, it’s probably quite different to anywhere you’ve visited before.

This UNESCO World Heritage city often stops tourists in their tracks. If you’re not marvelling at the street art and impressive architecture (think Chinese clan houses and grand colonial builds) then you’re being sucked down pretty lantern-lit lanes.

George Town is Penang’s relaxed, semi-sleepy hipster capital. It’s one of the only places you can stroll around in half an hour and experience multi-faith and multicultural Malaysia ~ from Chinatown, to Little India and an array of mosques, shrines and temples.

While most visitors head to Penang for the culture, for Malaysians it’s more about the food.

The locals I’ve spoken to say the food is different and better in Penang. Whilst fancier restaurants are available, most of the best food is undoubtedly on the street at hawker stalls, so don’t be afraid to explore them. My Lonely Planet book  came in handy in recommending some to try, as did my guesthouse. Otherwise, a safe bet is just to pull up a chair anywhere that’s busy.

Penang isn’t Malaysia’s best beach destination (there’s not many of them and they’re not all great), but you can still find a few decent spots to chill in Batu Ferringhi or Monkey Beach.

If you’re looking for more to do, I’d recommend hiking through the National Park which has a well-maintained track that leads to a quiet beach. Or you should check out the charming Tropical Spice Garden and make a stop at their pukka Thai restaurant. 😋

The Sailor and I booked our hotel for a few days, but ended up extending our stay for a week. George Town is a must see if you’re living in KL.

Accommodation:

• George Town: I had a great stay at Magpie Heritage Hideaway , a cute family run guesthouse. The room was well-styled and spacious, located in a quiet part of George Town but close enough to all the best bits, although I’m not sure they’re operating anymore as dates seem to be booked out on Agoda. However there’s this stay on the same road called Tien Hotel Georgetown that also looks like a great option and for the same price, rooms start at around RM 260   per night (approx. $87 AUD or £48 GBP). Otherwise, You Le Yuen on Love Lane (such romantic real estate!) is highly rated budget-friendly stay, or Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion is a characterful heritage hotel with a few more frills.
• If you’re after beachside accommodation in the Batu Ferringhi area, there are quite a few to choose from. I’m quite a fan of DoubleTree by Hilton , but the Hard Rock Hotel and Shangri-La have also been recommended by other expats, and it’s a particularly good choice for families.

Travelling with kiddos? Check out HappyGoKL’s blog post to find out more about what to do in Penang with Kids.

Short Getaway From Kuala Lumpur: The Bucket List

8. where the locals & expats go: kapas island.

Location: On the northeast coast (about 95k south of the Perhentians) Getting there:  Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 30 min taxi ride to Marang jetty (not to be mistaken for Merang in the north which shows up on Google…see the map below!), followed by a 15 min boat ride (your guesthouse will let you know the departure times and which boat to get).

Note: Kapas is only available outside of the Monsoon season (Feb – late October).

Kapas is a small, less-touristy island where the locals and expats go for a quiet escape. Being an east coast isle, the beaches hit the spot (although they’re perhaps not as striking as the Perhentians and Redang) and the marine life offers an abundance of fish species, turtles and even reef sharks.

Accommodation: I’m super bummed that I didn’t make it here before I migrated from KL, but the accommodation I was after was booked out. Kapas only has a handful of guesthouses and not all are reviewed favourably. If you’re looking for luxury accommodation then you won’t find it here, but there are a couple of places offering a comfortable stay at a reasonable price.

• Kapas Beach Resort (KBC): My teacher friends highly recommend this place and have stayed on a number of occasions (it might appear a bit confusing online as there’s two KBC’s- one is good and one isn’t- this is the good one!). It’s run by a Dutch man called Hans and the rooms are a really good rate (around RM 200). Bookings can be made by contacting Hans via Whatsapp (+60 19-343-5606) where he’ll send you pictures and all info via text. Prices start at RM 145 for a Garden View Room (fan only) to RM 209 for a Seabird room with Air-Con (approx. $51 – $74 AUD or £28-£40 GBP). There’s a 2 nights minimum stay.
• Kapas Turtle Valley Resort : This place is also owned by a Dutch couple and the reviews are good. Rates vary from RM 270 for a beach Bungalow (2-3 pax) to RM 560 for the Hornbill Beach Family Bungalow (6-7 pax). Check them out online .

Or for a little more indulgence, next to Kapas is a smaller, private island owned by Gem Island Resort & Spa , which a friend stayed at and enjoyed. A Water Villa cost RM450 per night (approx. $160 AUD or £80).

9. Cave Hideaway: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Location:  Ipoh, 200k north of KL Getting there: 2h30 drive

This place has been on my radar for ages, but I’m only allowed one luxury resort a year! 😔 (First world problems eh).

The Banjaran sits pretty on a 23-acre valley, around ancient limestone hills bordering the rainforest. Similarly to Pangkor Laut Resort and Mangala, this is the place you come to indulge and completely relax. Except when you’re chilling here, you’ve got geothermal hot springs as dipping pools and rock formations to gawp at around them.

Jeff’s Cellar (one of their three restaurants) is even set inside a cave and looks like a one-to-one date set-up on The Bachelor, if it was sucked into a Harry Potter film – dreamy and mystical.

Plus, each villa (choose from the garden, water or lake) has its own private pool and hot tub. I had a friend who visited and was of course, in the zen den the whole time.

As The Banjaran is located in Ipoh , it’s a good opportunity to explore this George Town-esque, quaint old mining town, popular for its street art, food and cave temples (check out Kek Lok Tong and Perak Tong ). It’s also right next to the Ulu Kinta Forest Reserve, which is meant to have heaps of rainforest hiking trails.

Cost:  It’s steep, but perhaps you’ve got a b-day coming up? 😉 Starting at around RM 1’300 per night (approx. $460 AUD or £250 GBP). For the best rates and Genius discounts, check out Booking.com .

A bit out of your budget? Check out eco-friendly resort The Haven  for another a peaceful stay close to Ipoh.

10. Rafting, Caving & Hiking: Adventure in Gopeng

Location: In Perak (20k south of Ipoh & 180k north of KL) Getting there: 2 hour drive from KL

Situated just outside of the old tin-mining town centre are local kampungs (villages) and rainforest lined with eco-guesthouses. As well as relaxing amidst the rural setting, people come to Gopeng for white water rafting and caving adventures. It’s also just 20k south of Ipoh, so it could be a part of a longer road trip.

There are multiple companies to take adrenaline junkies out on the rapids, which is even suitable for kids when the water level is low. Check out recommended operator Riverbug.Asia or NomadAdventure , who also offer a range of other fun adventures in the area like waterfall abseiling at Geruntum Falls.

For added thrills and stoke, taking a ‘wet’ tour at Tempurung Cave is highly rated. It will get you down and dirty, crawling through dark tunnels in the largest cave system in Malaysia; not for the faint-hearted! Scaredy cats (and families) can do the easier ‘dry’ tour which is a relatively easy 45 minute walk.

Hikers can also take a relatively easy, self-guided trek through Bukit Batu Putih  which boasts panoramic views of the hilly terrain.

For more adventurous hikes you’ll probably need a guide to take you deeper into the jungle. Popular 5km+ treks are through the thick and hilly forests of Ulu Geroh to spot the carnivorous Rafflesia flower. Many tour operators offer this trip (including Riverbug & NomadAdventure).

Accommodation: I would personally choose to stay at Sementra Hot Spring Nature Resort which looks super idyllic. It’s built around a lake and immersed in nature with a rainforest backdrop, has a swimming pool with water sourced from the mountains and a hot spring on site. Prices start at RM 530 per night (approx. $176 AUD or £90 GBP).

Otherwise eco-guesthouse Hijau @ Gopeng offer spacious rooms and are committed to sustainability. Prices start at RM 430 per night for a villa with a private plunge pool (approx. $145 AUD or £75 GBP).

11. Sustainable Jungle Farmstay: Permaculture Perak

Location: In Perak, 77k north of Ipoh Getting there: A 3hr drive to Lenggong, where you’ll be picked up by your hosts in their 4WD (needed for the rough terrain)

Permaculture Perak won’t be everybody’s cup of tea. But if you’re up for a completely off-the-grid experience, as far away from city life that you can imagine (but not quite a weekend on Survivor), then this jungle farm stay could be for you.

Perched atop a mountain, 500m above sea level, the farm is said to have utterly enchanting views. Waking up to a setting blanket of cloud in the nearby valley, listening to distant gibbons and hornbills is definitely otherworldly. Sometimes they even get wild elephants wandering by at the wee hours.

Owners Czech-born Kuta, an ex-structural engineer who left corporate KL and his wife Tan, a pilates instructor, have created a completely self-sufficient retreat.

Apart from growing all their own food on-site, they also source drinking water from the mountain (and shower with sourced water from the river), use minimal electricity from their homemade solar power system and recycle or reuse all waste for composting. I’ve read also that Kuta makes his own beer…well, he is from Pilsen.

There are 5 simplistic rooms available, and a natural wading pool. You can pre-book a tour of their sustainable farm to find out more about their practices and there are a number of other nature/eco-based activities on offer (see their website for details). Or you can just hike to the nearby waterfall for solitude and remoteness.

You can find out more about Permaculture Perak by reading this Malay Mail article , or by watching this National Geographic doco . 

Cost: Adults : RM 225 pp /per night (approx. $79 AUD or £43) and kids : RM 165. Booking: e-mail them to book ~ Permaculture.Perak(at)gmail.com

12. Blissful Beaches: Redang Island

Location: On the northwest coast (in between the Perhentians and Kapas) Getting there: Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 15 min taxi ride to Shahbandar Jetty, followed by a 40 min boat ride.

Note: Most resorts close during the Monsoon season (late October – Feb/March).

I was always keen to visit Redang but wan’t a fan of the price tag, considering I could book a decent beachfront cabana for as low as RM 200 in the Perhentians. But if you have a slightly bigger budget, then the island is meant to house some of the best beaches in Peninsular Malaysia.

Redang doesn’t really have the backpacker crowd that’s visible on Perhentian Kecil, which is probably a reflection of the resort costs. But it does have multiple beaches to frolic around in, with the most popular being Long Beach where most resorts are located. Otherwise, grab a kayak and find some others, like Teluk Dalam Besar or Teluk Kalong .

Another popular pastime on Redang is snorkelling and scuba diving. You might even be lucky enough to spot turtles as the island is home to the most amount of nesting green turtles in Peninsula Malaysia. Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary is located on the northwest end of the island, and whilst the beach is off-limits to tourists, it’s open for volunteers on a weekly basis from April to September (see their website for further details.)

Accommodation: Out of the 9 resorts listed on Booking.com, only 2 have a rating 8.0 or above. (There’s even one with a 5.4 score, which charges over RM 400 per night 😳). Here are the nicer two:

• Laguna Redang Island Resort:  This place looks comfortable with spacious rooms and a great beachfront location. Although some negative review comments say that resort is really big and can get pretty busy as it caters for large groups. Average price per night is RM 670 (approx. $235AUD or £130 GBP). via Booking.com
• The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort: This is the fanciest resort on the island and I’ve had friends stay here who really enjoyed it. It has it’s own secluded beach so it’s quieter than Long Beach, although the snorkelling is perhaps not quite as good in this spot. The rooms are spacious and modern, with a private balcony. The resort also has 4 dining options and guests here can take a 1.5hr speedboat ride directly from the airport. Average price per night is RM 800 (approx. $280AUD or £154 GBP). via Booking.com

13. East Coast Traditional Luxury: Tanjong Jara Resort

Location: Northwest coast, in Dungun (Terengganu) Getting there: 4 hr drive, 370k from KL

Tajong Jara is another YTL hotel on the Peninsular (the same owners as Pangkor Laut Resort) so you can expect the same luxuriousness. It’s also about 1/3 less in price and if you go for the residents package, then you’ll have brekkie, lunch and dinner included. Life’s little wins.

This 5* luxury resort sits at the end of a long, crescent beach. It won’t boast crystal clear water (you’ll have to go on a snorkelling trip to Tenggol island for that) but looks ideal for a daily stroll, or gazing out on whilst contemplating life.

Also on offer are: two pools (both with bars), three restaurants, plus a range of experiences on offer like jungle trekking to Chemerung Waterfall, diving or bike touring.

For a bit of fauna, there’s a turtle hatchery next to their Nelayan restaurant in collaboration with Lang Tengah Turtle Watch. Between May and October, guests are welcome to view the daily nest inspections and, if you’re lucky, you may be able to witness baby turtles being released into the ocean.

Otherwise, it’s said that there’s plenty of monkeys around the resort (don’t forget to shut your terrace doors!) as well as the odd peacock and monitor lizard.

Cost:  Starting at around RM 686 per night (approx. $220AUD or £135 GBP). For genius discounts, free cancellation & a pay later option, book via Booking.com . Or if you live in Malaysia and want the resident’s package, you can book directly with the resort .

Extra Getaways from Kuala Lumpur 🤙🏼

14. east coast beach break : club med cherating resort.

Location: East coast, in Pahang Getting there: 3h30 drive, 280k from KL

This is a great choice for families as it’s all-inclusive with a kids club. It might look a bit steep in price all up, but you won’t need to pay for anything when you’re there. The package includes all food, drinks (with a full bar… cocktails too 😉) and a range of activities like tree-top adventures and fly trapeze.

The beach won’t rival the Perhentians or Redang but will offer endless bucket-and-spade fun for the kids, or you can hang by either of their two pools.

Cost:  Not cheap, but everything is included. Starting at around RM 2640 for a 2-night stay (the minimum) (approx. $928AUD or £510 GBP). To find out more or to book, head to the resort website .

Accommodation out of your budget? You could stay at The Kasturi Resort in Cherating instead (approx. RM 530 per night) and just pop over to Club Med for the day!

15. Island Staycation: Tioman Islands

Location: Off the southeast coast, in Pahang Getting there:  A bit of a pain as the nearest airport in Johor is a 2-hour taxi ride away! (Although that should mean fewer tourists). The easiest way is a 4hr drive to Mersing Jetty (or get a bus , but this will take even longer), followed by a 1.5-2hr ferry ride. Do take note of ferry times as most seem to leave before midday, and are subject to delays due to tides and storms.

If you’ve already ventured to the Perhentians, Kapas and Redang, then you might be ready for a different east coast island.

Due to its generous size and low-scale development, Tioman is said to be even more laid-back than those ☝🏼 mentioned. It also sounds a bit more basic and rustic, but the highlights are the relaxed beach vibes, snorkelling and rigorous jungle hikes.

Accommodation: There are quite a few decent-looking stays on Booking.com, with good reviews. Generally, the accommodation comprises of more simplistic chalets (with poor wifi), but there are a couple of fancier stays with their own bit of beach, if you’ve got the budget for it.

• Bushman Tioman : I’d go for this one if I was visiting Tioman as it looks like good value for money. Basic rooms, all with a balcony and it’s right on the beach. Priced at RM 300 per night (approx. $105 AUD or £58 GBP). via Booking.com

Bushman not your cup of tea? Check out other Tioman hotels on Booking.com

16. Cooler Climes: Cameron Highlands

Location: Pahang highlands Getting there:  3 hr drive, 205k north of KL

I was really excited to visit Cameron Highlands before coming to Malaysia, but unfortunately, our visit didn’t really do it justice. Our hotel ended up being a 2-hour drive away (that was the second to last time the Sailor booked our holiday 🤦🏻‍♀️), and we went on a bank holiday weekend so the traffic was a nightmare. Plus, we had a car accident on the way back from our hotel, which wasn’t our the Sailor’s fault.

But don’t let my sorry tale put you off! Book a decent hotel actually ‘in’ the highlands, outside of a public holiday, and you should be okay. Although avoiding weekends altogether would be ideal as it’s said to get busy regardless.

Cameron Highlands is characterful with intriguing colonial buildings rooted with history, and fields of rolling tea plantations. You can find English style pubs, get outdoors on hiking trails and experience cooler climes in the high altitude. Read more about how to plan a trip here on Lonely Planet .

Accommodation: There are quite a few cute colonial hotels with great reviews, although I’d be mindful of those that cater for big groups so as to avoid them!

If I was booking to stay here again, I’d check out The Smokehouse . It’s set inside an extremely quaint, traditional Tudor-style building with views of its award-winning gardens. I stopped by the restaurant before which is a well-preserved, old English country pub. Even if you don’t stay here, you should definitely stop by. Prices start at  RM 396 per night and come with breakfast (approx. $140AUD or £77 GBP).

Fancy other highlands? Why not check out Genting Highland’s ‘ Good Vibes ‘ music fest in July, or take a day trip to Fraser Hill.

17. Escape the Crowds: Sibu Island

Location: Off the southeast coast (63k south of Tioman) Getting there: 5-hour drive to Tanjung Leman Jetty, then a 30-40 minute boat ride.

What, you haven’t had enough of the east coast islands yet? Okay, here’s one more. 🤙🏼

I realise travelling this far down the coast is a bit more of a sacrifice, but sometimes the rewards are greater when you go those extra miles. It should mean that Sibu offers a more authentic island experience and won’t be heaving with big groups from KL, although it’s quite popular with Singaporeans due to its close proximity.

The island itself is teeny with a population of fewer than 100 in the main kampung (village). The coastline is rugged and the beaches are golden, with lush green vegetation engulfing the middle of this 6km by 1km isle.

As with most other east coast islands, snorkelling and diving is a popular pastime, as well as hiking through the jungle.

Accommodation: There’s only a handful of resorts located on the north end of the island. I’d personally go for these ones:

• Rimba Resort: Simplistic chalets with a fan and balcony, situated on it’s own bit of beach. Around RM 420 per night with breakfast (approx. $147AUD or £81 GBP). via Booking.com
• Sea Gypsy Resort: Rustic and clean chalets with a balcony, in an eco-friendly and family friendly resort. Starts at RM 220 per night, per person (approx. $77AUD or £42 GBP) , but includes all food. Book via their website .

18. Low-Key Hideout: Lang Tengah Island

Location: Off the northeast coast Getting there: Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 30 min taxi ride to Merang jetty, followed by a 45 min boat ride ( check here for boat times ).

Note: Resorts close during the Monsoon season (mid-late October to Feb).

Here’s another alternative island on the East Coast (the last one I promise!)

Lang Tengah is situated between the Perhentians and Redang (its name means ‘eagle in the middle’) so boasts white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and a rich marine life that’s synonymous with the region.

Unlike its two neighbours, Lang Tengah is said to be more low-key, but slightly more upmarket than Kapas because of the accommodation offerings. There are only three resorts spread over four beaches, and each is easily accessible on foot or via boat taxi.

Marine life includes rays, reef sharks and turtles. Or for more impressive views, there’s a 25-minute hiking trail through the jungle to Batu Kuching.

Lang Tengah Turtle Watch operate on the island too (the guys who have teamed up with Tanjoong Jara Resort) and offer a volunteer programme between May and October, with a minimum stay of 1-week. Turtles also occasionally go to nest near D’Coconut Lagoon.

Accommodation: Here are the three resorts available on the island, from the cheapest to the most pricey.

• D’Coconut Lagoon: Spacious, simple rooms with A/C, a balcony and breakfast. This resort is divided into the ‘West Wing’ and ‘East Wing’, which sit on separate beaches and have a restaurant & swimming pool. They can both be accessed via a short jungle path. Prices start at RM 190 per night with breakfast (approx. $66AUD or £36 GBP). Book via their website (they’re not on Booking.com)…I’d go for this place if visiting the island.
• Sari Pacifica Resort: A mid range option, but perhaps not as value for money if you go for the most expensive rooms (I’d probably go fo the Garden Villa). Rooms have A/C and brekkie is included, although the food reviews are a mixed bag. Starts at RM 260 per night (approx. $91AUD or £50 GBP). via Booking.com .
• Summer Bay Resort: Simple rooms all with A/C and brekkie. The beach out front is said to be stunning, although the resort seems to frequently cater for large groups of tourists and has recently expanded to meet the demand. Starts at RM 488 per night (approx. $171AUD or £94 GBP). via Booking.com .

Looking for even more lesser-known East Coast isles? Why not check out Pulau Babi Besar , Rawa Island, Pulau Tinggi or for a special occasion, Batu Batu Resort on the private island of Pulau Tengah .

Wow, that was epic! Well done if you read till the end.

You may have noticed my penchant for tropical islands, but I think a lot of the lesser-known East Coast isles get overlooked so I wanted to show them some love.

However, there are plenty of short getaways from Kuala Lumpur for every kind of traveller, whether you’re seeking beach time, jungle time, adventure or culture.

Whatever you choose, I hope you have a blast.

Getting Around & Travel Tips

As Uber was bought by Grab in Malaysia over a year ago, Grab is the platform I use daily. You can book via the app and the exact price is given upon booking (except for tolls), unlike Uber which only estimates.

It’s a good option for travelling to/from KL airport to KL (approx. RM 65 as a base price, or around RM 85 with tolls included) or getting to a jetty.

As Grab has the monopoly, they’ve been getting a bit cheekier recently and can hike prices steeply during peak times. If a rate seems a bit too much, try using MyCar app instead. (Although this shouldn’t be the case getting to KL airport which is fixed).

We don’t have our own car but always rent one in Malaysia using GoCar . There are multiple GoCars dotted around KL, and we’ve found them more convenient and quicker to pick up/drop off than a regular car rental. They’re also better value.

If you’re a new GoCar user, you can register via their website and then book via the app. They have a newer fleet of Renault Capturs at RM 109 per day, as well as their older Nissan Almeras at RM 90 per day. All you need is an internet connection to get going, which unlocks the door and gives you a code for the key in the glove compartment (apart from the new Capturs which work solely on internet connection…which gets a bit fiddly).

As GoCar (and most other rentals) only offer basic insurance coverage, we always purchase additional protection through RentalCover.com . Their policy insures you against all the things that car rentals do not, including zero excess. For two days cover, we paid £19.60 GBP which insured us up to £60’000 and additional drivers are free.

We used to use Google Maps on our phone to navigate on the road, but the Waze app works much better in Malaysia! It’s great at giving you live updates (Malaysians are fab at reporting hazards) including traffic delays, and the app is easy to follow. Plus, the lady’s voice has an English accent that’s entertaining when she pronounces Malaysian places 😄

Don’t forget your Touch ‘n Go card!

You need this for toll roads in Malaysia, which are everywhere. The card costs RM10.60 and you’ll need to top it up. Most petrol stations sell them or 7-Eleven convenience stores. If topping up on the highway, be sure to have cash handy as they don’t accept cards.

For a full list of available flights to a particular destination, I always start my search using Skyscanner . Although to most destinations within Peninsula Malaysia, AirAsia is your best bet for cost efficiency and availability of flights.

Accommodation

Unless a hotel is not on the platform, I’m fiercely loyal to Booking.com when booking stays.

If you’re a frequent user too then you’ll get the benefit of Genius discounts (10-15% off) and their rates are virtually always the cheapest on offer. Plus, all taxes are included in the quoted price within the initial search, unlike what I’ve experienced with Agoda.

Another bonus is that if you have issues with your hotel (like I did in the Perhentians) then their customer support is awesome. They helped me resolve a problem I was having and the American lady I spoke to was very understanding.

Looking for a stay? Search for hotels on Booking.com

**Tip** Don’t forget to change your VPN to a Malaysian network for cheaper rates.

Travel Tips

For tourists visiting Malaysia, I’d reserve only 2-3 nights in Kuala Lumpur if you’re planning on spending some time in the city. Check out my article on 10 things to do in the city  for when you’re here.

Also, expats will know what a nightmare the traffic can be on bank holiday weekends as everyone practically leaves the city. I’d avoid a long drive during public holidays (👈🏼 get aquatinted with them, there’s many) and go somewhere a flight away instead. Or you could try leaving extra early and cross your fingers!

Top 18 gateways on my list

Like & share.

Glad to know you enjoy your stay. As a Malaysian I would like to recommend you few more nice places (if you haven’t been there yet) here. Check out Malacca (one of the most historic city) or Kundasang in Sabah where you can hike Kinabalu mountain, the via feratta is the highest in the world. There are also few awesome islands in Sabah such as Sipadan, Mabul etc. You can get plenty of info from Mr. G. Love what you are doing here, cheers!

Travel Mermaid

Hey! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your suggestions.

There are so many wonderful places to visit in Malaysia! In this post I wanted to keep suggestions to areas on the Peninsula so that it’s closer to KL for a short getaway.

However Borneo is a place I’d love to visit and write about in the future. ⭐️

That explain the areas selection. I am residing in KL for work but born and raised in east coast part of the peninsula. Still prefer my quiet hometown than crazy traffic in KL. Well, you have contributed to Malaysia’s tourism industry way more than I ever did. Hopefully Sailor will keep on doing his terrible judgements – we are are kind of mirror image where my girl always the one screwing up our vacations lol.

I can imagine! I grew up in the city but prefer smaller towns these days too. I bet it was lovely growing up on the east coast.

And lol, I guess we’re all the yin to our partners yang! Although I must say that the Sailor’s getting better 😉

Nandhini Manohar

Great article 😃

Thank you Nandhini 😃 I hope it helped you find a staycation! x

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39 Cool Places to Take a Short Getaway in Malaysia (2024)

Looking for a short getaway in Malaysia that your entire group will enjoy? Here are some unique and fun places to visit!

We lived in Malaysia for almost 18 months and spent a lot of that time exploring the country. I wrote this article to help others based on my own experience researching all the places we wanted to see while we lived there.

I include everything from peninsular Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo, and a variety of Islands you may never have heard of before!

Since we’re already planning a return trip, I’ve been keeping all this updated so I’m ready to see it all when we go back.

Since sharing is caring, I wrote this article to help you plan your own short getaway in Malaysia!

Each of these destinations offers something different and exciting for visitors on a quick trip to Malaysia, so you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy. Let’s jump in!

What is a Short Getaway in Malaysia?

A short getaway in Malaysia is a quick trip that only lasts two to three nights. It can even be a quick staycation Malaysia style.

Depending on your budget and how much time you have, it could be a two-hour or less drive from where you live or it can be a plane flight to another part of the country.

Some short getaways in Malaysia are more adventurous while others offer a more relaxed atmosphere. It all depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation.

No matter what, there’s sure to be a short getaway in Malaysia for families, couples, or any kind of travel group!

If you already know where you want to go and just need some recommendations for the best family resorts in Malaysia , I’ve got you covered on that as well.

Short Getaway in Malaysia Summary

Don’t want to read the whole article? Check out our summary video below that gives you just some of the amazing spots to visit on a quick trip to Malaysia.

Short Getaways Near Kuala Lumpur

All of these places to go on a short getaway in Malaysia are two hours or less driving from Kuala Lumpur . They’re great for travelers on a budget or who have a shorter period of time to get away in Malaysia .

1. Kuala Lumpur City Stay

If you’re really pressed for time or don’t live in KL, Malaysia’s capital city offers some really great options for a short getaway in Malaysia. It’s really fun at Christmastime and New Years , too!

Either spend a couple of nights in KLCC for a KL getaway to enjoy all the tourist opportunities that the city center has to offer or plan time at a local waterpark. There are also some excellent hotels with rooftop pools in KL, too!

If you stay in KLCC, then KLCC park, with its enormous playground and fabulous splash pad, is a quick stroll away during your KL short getaway.

Aquaria KLCC and Petrosains Science Center are also excellent activities to consider. Don’t forget to visit the Twin Tower Skydeck, too!

KLCC Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in KLCC are: ✔️ Mandarin Oriental KL 💰💰💰 ✔️ Grand Hyatt KL 💰💰 ✔️ Corus Hotel 💰

KLCC Activities to Try:

• Aquaria KLCC
• Petronas Twin Towers Skydeck
• Le Petit Chef Interactive Dinner Night
• Ride the Hop On, Hop Off Bus

Southern Kuala Lumpur Hotels and Activities

South of KLCC, we love to spend a couple of days at Sunway Lagoon . This theme park offers water activities, a small zoo, amusement park rides, and a year-round haunted house.

Sunway Lagoon is also adjacent to Sunway Pyramid Mall, which offers its own variety of activities from bowling and archery to ice skating and escape rooms! There’s even a TGV movie theater with IMAX.

Little Man told me the area around Sunway Lagoon is the best staycation Malaysia offers!

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying at Sunway Lagoon are: ✔️ Sunway Pyramid Hotel 💰💰💰 ✔️ Raintree Resort Suites 💰💰 ✔️ GG Hotel Bandar Sunway 💰

Restaurants to Try during your short getaway in KL:

• Hungry Tapir
• Bluebird Cafe
• Slappy Cakes Sunway Pyramid
• Bife Charcoal Steakhouse
• Eat in a River at BBQ Lamb KL Kemensah

2. Fraser’s Hill

Also known as Fraser’s Hill, Bukit Fraser is a colonial hill town with excellent bird-watching and good hiking. Located in Pahang, it’s a great place to spend a short getaway.

There are plenty of things to do, including hiking and picnicking at Fraser’s Hill Lighthouse. The Pine Tree Trail and Hemmant trail are fairly easy hiking paths.

Plus, you can also visit Deer Park to see different types of deer or go to the Jeriau Waterfall.

Fraser’s Hill Hotels & Activities

👉 For staying in Fraser’s Hill, I recommend Shahzan Inn .

Fraser’s Hill Activities to Try:

• Take a Birdwatching Tour
• Go on a Photo Tour
• Visit Deerland Park

Try these restaurants in Fraser’s Hill:

• Green Roses (in the Fraser’s Hill Food Court)
• Tea House Restaurant & Cafe
• Ye Old Smokehouse

3. Genting Highlands

Located just over the state border in Pahang, Genting Highlands is less than an hour’s drive from KL. We loved it as a short trip from KL option!

Despite its proximity to the capital city, the mountains and clouds make it feel like your 2 days 1 night trip in Malaysia is a lifetime away. Because of this, some people consider Genting Highlands the best getaway near KL.

Although Genting Highlands is known for its casinos, there are a lot of kid-friendly activities here as well. You can visit a local strawberry farm to pick your own strawberries and taste assorted strawberry products in the cafe.

In addition, it’s a lot of fun to ride a mountainside cable car and visit the ancient Chin Swee Caves temple. It’s worth paying extra for the glass-bottom gondola so you can see the ground fly past you underneath!

Genting Highlands Hotels & Activities:

👉 Some Genting Highlands hotels I recommend are: ✔️ Grand Ion Deleman Hotel 💰💰💰 ✔️ Swiss Garden Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Resorts World Genting – First World Hotel 💰

At the top of the cable car ride is Resorts World, which has a huge indoor amusement park. Plan to spend an hour or so exploring the complex even if you don’t stay to enjoy the theme park.

Genting Highlands Activities:

• Resorts World Skytropolis Theme Park
• Ride the Skyway Gondola

Restaurants to try in Genting Highlands:

• Cloud View Cafe (our favorite spot!)
• Brew House Genting Permai Avenue
• Sugu Restaurant Claypot Rice

4. Kuala Selangor

Considering its proximity to KL, this is a great short weekend in Malaysia’s Selangor! This is one of the more memorable short trips in Malaysia that we’ve taken. It’s great for a family trip or an adventure with friends.

Kuala Selangor is best known for the Sky Mirror, a natural phenomenon that occurs at low tides. It allows for trick photography so that the water reflects a mirror of your actions. We loved it! In addition, you can take a sunset boat tour to see fireflies at Kuantan Firefly Park as well as scores of eagles along the Selangor River. Plus, you can explore the Sri Shakti Temple and the lighthouse atop Malawati Hill.

Kuala Selangor Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Kuala Selangor for a short trip to Malaysia are: Firefly Villa 💰💰💰 Kuala Selangor Boutique Hotel 💰💰 Hotel Le Shore 💰

Kuala Selangor Activities to Try:

• Sky Mirror photo tour
• Fireflies Night Cruise with seafood dinner
• Eagle-watching boat tour

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Selangor:

• Thyme Taste & Grill
• River View Seafood Restaurant
• Aroma Ikan Bakar

You’ll often find this historic city spelled “Malacca,” which is the English-imposed spelling from colonial times. The correct, Malay spelling is Melaka.

Located in the state of the same name, the coastal city on the Straits of Melaka has a lot to offer.

We actually stayed here for four nights but could have easily enjoyed many of the sights after only staying two or three. Some people even just come for a day trip.

One of the best things to do in Melaka is a river cruise! From seeing the beautiful street art to the water monitors sunning themselves, this one is enjoyable for all ages.

For a short getaway in Malaysia to Melaka, you should visit the submarine museum and the prison museum as well as some of the historic ruins and the Shore Skytower. The Shore Aquarium is pretty great, too!

Melaka Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Melaka are: ✔️ Doubletree by Hilton 💰💰💰 ✔️ Rosa Melacca 💰💰 ✔️ Shore Hotel & Residences 💰

Melaka Activites to Try:

• Tour Historic Melaka
• Visit the Shore Sky Tower
• Explore the Upside Down House

Pro Tip : Make time to ride a trishaw ! Their LED lights glow like beacons after dark so you can’t miss seeing them near the A’Famosa fort.

Restaurants to Try in Melaka:

• Baboon House
• Pak Putra Restaurant
• Munchkins Cafe Melaka

6. Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a waterfront town located in Negeri Sembilan. It’s best known for its overwater bungalows at Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson. However, there are also some great things to do there with kids during a quick getaway.

Families will enjoy the PD Ostrich Show Farm as well as the Port Dickson lighthouse, which offers a stunning panorama of the jungle and the ocean.

The town also has the Army Museum, which has a variety of retired military vehicles, as well as the historic Kota Lukut fort.

Just south of town are the Blue Lagoon and Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, which offer excellent swimming opportunities during your short weekend getaway.

Port Dickson Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Port Dickson are: ✔️ Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson 💰💰💰 ✔️ Grand Lexis Port Dickson 💰💰 ✔️ Corus Paradise Resort 💰

Port Dickson Activities to Try:

• Go on a Sunset Cruise
• Visit the Ostrich Farm
• Ride a Banana Boat & Go on a Picnic !

Restaurants to Try in Port Dickson:

• Mutiara Seafood Village
• Lucky King Bun
• Gim Men Teppanyaki

7. Bukit Tinggi + Bentong/Raub

Bukit Tinggi is located in Pahang and is a great place to go on a short getaway. There are plenty of things to do, including visiting the Bukit Tinggi Botanical Gardens and going on a jungle trek.

You can visit the Japanese Village, where they can learn about Japanese culture and try traditional food. Plus, Colmar Tropicale is a French-themed village that’s ideal for people who want to experience something different.

You can also, visit the Lembah Anai waterfall, go to Bentong to enjoy one of the hot springs resorts, or Raub to go gold panning.

Bukit Tinggi Hotels & Activities

👉 When staying in Bukit Tinggi, I recommend the New York Studio at Selesa Hill Homes .

Bukit Tinggi Activities:

• French Town Tour
• Colmar Tropicale Castle

Restaurants to Try in Bukit Tinggi, Bentong, and Raub:

• Fantasy Valley Restaurant
• Kitchen & La Boulangerie Cafe
• Bee’s Food and Coffee

8. Kuala Kubu Bharu

Kuala Kubu Bharu (KKB) is located in Selangor and is a great place to spend a short getaway.

There are plenty of things to do including hiking to the Sungai Selangor Dam for a lovely scenic overlook and visiting the Sungai Chiling Waterfalls.

You can also visit the massive playground at Taman Tasik Millenium or take a dip in the Taman Arif hot springs.

Just sitting outside at night to watch the stars is also a lot of fun. You may find that two nights here isn’t quite enough.

Kuala Kubu Baru Hotels & Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in KKB are: ✔️ Hillside Batu Retreat 💰💰💰 ✔️ Greenland Boutique Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Hilltop Hotel 💰

Kubu Bharu Activities to Try:

• Go White Water Rafting (Ages 10+ only)
• Check out the Sungai Selangor Dam

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Kubu Bharu:

• Teng Wun Bakery (eat some Kaya puffs!)
• Dataran Kuala Kubu Bharu
• Sun Sun Nam Cheong

9. Sekinchan

Sitting on the coast of Northern Selangor, Sekinchan is reminiscent of Balinese rice paddy fields. You can even visit a working rice farm as well as the Paddy Gallery museum about the history of rice farming in Malaysia.

The Sekinchan Wishing Tree is located right on a great beach for swimming, so you can take a dip after tying your wish to the tree.

Families will also enjoy the huge playground at MSekin Wonderland, as well as the colorful structures the campus has to offer.

Sekinchan Hotels & Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Sekinchan are: ✔️ Villa Chee 💰💰 ✔️ A+ Plus Boutique Hotel 💰

Sekinchan Activities to Try:

• Tour a Rice Paddy
• Make a wish at the wishing tree

Restaurants to Try in Sekinchan:

• Ah Ma House Seafood Restaurant
• Ninja Private Kitchen (Eat a sunset dinner overlooking a rice paddy!)
• Daiyum Daisek

10. Hulu Langat

Hulu Langat is located in Selangor and is a great place to spend a short getaway. There are plenty of things to do, including hiking, picnicking, and visiting the Hulu Langat Falls.

You can also visit the Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest or take a dip in the Sungai Gabai Waterfall. The Kem Herba recreational camp is also a lot of fun.

Hulu Langat Hotels & Activities

👉 When staying in Hulu Langat, I recommend Homestay Cikgu Zedi although you can also go camping at Hammocks by the River .

Hulu Langat Activities:

• Go fishing!
• Visit the Sungai Gabai Waterfall
• Walk through the Sungai Congkak Recreational Forest

Restaurants to Try in Hulu Langat:

• Zest Restaurant
• Elda’s Farmhouse
• Latest Recipe

11. Janda Baik

Janda Baik is located in Pahang and is a great place for taking a short getaway in Malaysia. From the unique accommodation options to the expansive coffee farms that offer tours , there are plenty of things to do during a short getaway.

You can also visit the BOH Tea Garden, go on a nature walk along the Janda Baik River, or visit the Tampit Waterfall. Pack sturdy shoes for hiking!

Janda Baik Hotels & Activities:

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying in Janda Baik are: ✔️ Le Maneh Retreat (private villa) ✔️ Canopy Villa Tampik Valley (glamping resort with breakfast) ✔️ eRYA by Suria (traditional hotel)

Janda Baik Activities to Try:

• BOH Tea Garden
• Tampit Waterfall
• Janda Baik River walk

Restaurants to Try in Janda Baik:

• The Cafe at Ebum Villa
• Farm on a Hill (an excellent farm-to-table dining experience!)

12. Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib

Bukit Jugra is located in Selangor and is a great spot to spend a Malaysian short getaway.

There are plenty of things to do in this nostalgic old town, including hiking and picnicking during a visit to the Bukit Jugra Lighthouse.

Pantai Morib is a nearby beach that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. You can also visit the Kampung Cempaka Putih to see traditional Malaysian houses.

Pantai Morib Hotels & Activities

👉 For staying in Bukit Jugra or Pantai Morib, I recommend Gold Coast Morib International Resort .

Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib Activities:

• Go Tandem Paragliding
• Relax on Morib Beach

Restaurants to Try in Bukit Jugra and Pantai Morib:

• She Ba Judgra
• Restoran Wan Ikan Bakar

13. Batang Kali

Located in Selangor, a short getaway to Batang Kali is a perfect short vacation in Selangor for those who want to spend time outdoors in beautiful landscapes.

Teratak Tok Alang river rafting is great for kids and those who don’t love the water because the river isn’t too deep or too rough. It’s a perfect place to spend two or three nights.

The beautiful Sakyak monastery and Siamese Temple is located there, as well, and is a fun place to tour. You can also visit Hoho Farm, a local farming cooperative, for a day of picking fruits and vegetables.

Batang Kali Hotels & Activities

👉 I suggest One Home Hotel for staying in Batang Kali.

Restaurants to try in Batang Kali Selangor:

• CCK Restaurant
• WK Restaurant
• Ken Kee Restaurant

Short Getaways Around Peninsular Malaysia

You’ll have to drive further than two hours from Kuala Lumpur to get to these towns and cities, but they’re well worthwhile. You can even take a bus or the train to some of them if you don’t have a car.

14. Belum Rainforest

This rainforest in northern Perak offers a variety of activities, from guided nature hikes on Banding Island or Royal Belum State Park to exploring Temenggor Lake.

It’s a great short getaway in Malaysia for anyone who enjoys the outdoors!

I recommend you stay at one of the eco-resorts in the area for the best up-close nature experience. The Belum Rainforest resort even has a star trail for night hiking!

Belum Rainforest Hotels and Activities

👉 Belum Rainforest Resort has been called one of the best nature retreats in Malaysia. However, Belum Adventure Camp and Belum Eco Resort are also excellent!

There aren’t really any restaurants in this area, so all or most of your meals will likely be at your resort’s on-site restaurants.

👉 This Belum rainforest package includes your hotel stay, meals at the hotel, and round trip airport transfers!

15. Cameron Highlands

Located on the Perak border of Pahang, the Cameron Highlands are known for nature hiking and strawberries!

Most strawberries grown in Malaysia come from this area, and you can tour one of the many farms and even pick your own to take home!

Note : Our strawberries never made it past the hotel room the next day!

You can take also nature hikes in the Mossy Forest as well as visit the Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm. Cactus Valley is an expansive plant nursery that grows and sells both cacti as well as assorted fruits.

If you visit on a weekend, make sure to check out the Golden Hills Weekend Market. This outdoor shopping extravaganza also has some great street food!

In addition, the Time Tunnel Museum is very popular as are the Robinson Waterfalls and Taman Eko Rimba Parit Falls.

Cameron Highlands Hotels and Activities:

👉 Some Cameron Highlands hotels I recommend are: ✔️ The Lakehouse 💰💰💰 ✔️ Century Pines Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Zetter Suites 💰

Cameron Highlands Activities to Try:

• Search for the famous and rare Rafflesia flower
• Tour local farms and pick your own strawberries
• Hike the Mossy Forest

Restaurants to Try in Cameron Highlands:

• Highland Steamboat Cheese & Grill (the local farm tour above stops here for dinner!)

16. Johor Bahru

We lived in JB for six months in 2020, so we go to explore it pretty fully during that time!

Families would be remiss if they didn’t spend a short getaway in Malaysia at Legoland ! From rides and STEM classes to a waterpark and aquarium, there’s enough to fill several days here.

👉 Buy your Legoland Malaysia tickets in advance, to avoid lines at the gate!

Plus, if you stay at the Legoland Hotel you also get access to a Lego-themed pool reserved only for hotel guests.

In addition to Legoland, the surrounding area also has a great board game cafe at Eco Botanic as well as EnerG X Trampoline Park at Sunway Big Box mall.

For outdoor nature activities, the Heritage Forest and the Edible Park are in nearby Medini Iskandar.

Johor Bahru Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend staying near Legoland are: ✔️ Legoland Malaysia Resort (on-site midrange resort) ✔️ Ramada Meridin Johor (walkable midrange hotel) ✔️ Meridin Medini Apartments (walkable vacation rental)

Restaurants to Try near Legoland:

• Bricks Family Restaurant
• Secret Recipe
• Warung @ Edible Park

Ipoh is known for its street culture, specifically street art and street food, as well as white coffee. You should definitely go there to explore all those things. However, there’s so much more to do!

Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat offers a variety of relaxing thermal pools for adults and kids alike to enjoy. It’s a luxurious way to wind down after a busy work week.

Sam Poh Tong Temple and Perak Cave Temple are both located nearby. They’re fun for sightseeing!

Families also love Sunway Lost World of Tambun theme park. It’s great for a single-day visit, or even a couple of days if you have more time.

Ipoh Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in Ipoh: ✔️ The Haven All Suite Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Sunway Lost World Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Xcape Tambun 💰💰

Ipoh Activities to Try:

• Take a Heritage Tour of Ipoh
• Visit an Orangutan Sanctuary
• Relax with a Banjaran Hot Springs Day Pass

Restaurants to Try in Ipoh:

• Plan B (Ipoh)
• Sun Marpoh Restaurant
• Fish and Chips by Bareeseta

18. Taiping

Not to be confused with Taipei in Taiwan, this city in Perak offers a lot of unique things to do for a short getaway in Malaysia. The Perak Museum and the Taiping Zoo Night Safari are incredibly popular activities.

However, the Taiping Lake Gardens are also a lot of fun and offer beautiful views to relax and enjoy.

One of the more unique things to do in Taiping is touring the Spritzer bottling plant, then enjoying their on-site eco-park and playing mini-golf.

Taiping Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in Taiping: ✔️ Sentosa Villa 💰💰 ✔️ Knight Alley Hotel 💰

Taiping Activities to Try:

• Go on a Firefly Night Tour
• Support the Orangutan Island Foundation
• Brave the Taiping Suspension Bridge

Restaurants to Try in Taiping:

• Restoran Mr BBQ
• Ansari Famous Cendol
• Yut Sun Restaurant

19. Cherating Beach

Cherating is located on the Northeast coast of Terengganu state and has excellent surfing. Kids and adults alike can take lessons here if you’ve never done it. If surfing isn’t your thing, don’t worry!

You can also visit the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary, relax on Cherating beach, or explore the Kemaman Recreation Park. Plus, you can even go firefly-watching by boat on the Cherating Mangrove River!

Cherating Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for visiting Cherating Beach: ✔️ Royal Chulan Cherating Villa 💰💰💰 ✔️ Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa 💰💰 ✔️ Residence Inn Cherating 💰

Cherating Activities to Try:

• Go on a Night Cruise to See Fireflies
• Watch for Sea Turtles (late May to late August only)
• Enjoy a Mangrove Eco-Tour

Restaurants to Try in Cherating:

• Don’t Tell Mama Beach Cafe
• Ombok Cherating
• Cherating Beach Bar

20. Desaru Beach

Also located on the eastern coast, but on the southern tip of Johor state near Singapore, Desaru is a great place to spend a short getaway in Malaysia.

While the beach is (of course) one of the more popular things to do here, there is so much more!

From the Desaru Ostrich Farm to the Desaru Fruit Farm , there are many agricultural activities to enjoy here. We spent an entire day just at the fruit farm, including an amazing farm-to-table lunch and an ATV ride.

If you aren’t a beach or farm person, check out Adventure Waterpark Desaru. They offer pools and waterslides for everyone to enjoy!

Desaru Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend at Desaru Beach are: ✔️ Anantara Desaru Coast Private Villas 💰💰💰 ✔️ Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast 💰💰 ✔️ Amansari Hotel Desaru 💰

Activities in Desaru to Try:

• Explore Tide Pools on the beach
• Cruise the Sedili Kecil R
• Adventure Waterpark Desaru

Restaurants to Try in Desaru:

• Nelayan Seafood by the Coast
• Sea.Fire.Salt

Enjoy a 100-Year-Old Kampung House as well as some amazing waterfalls in this small town in central Perak. There are several museums here talking about the history of the area.

There is also a massive tree plantation here, called Tea Valley. You can tour the facilities to learn not only about the area’s agriculture but also to see some amazing viewpoints.

Just south of Gopeng is Tempurung Cave, one of the longest caves in Malaysia. You can explore several kilometers inside, which has some amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Gopeng Hotels and Activities

👉 Some accommodations I recommend for staying in Gopeng are: ✔️ Dhotel (traditional hotel) ✔️ Tokmat Glamping Resort (high-end camping) ✔️ Rocky Farm Ipoh (farm stay experience)

Gopeng Activities to Try:

• Go waterfall trekking
• Enjoy River Tubing
• Orang Asli Heritage & Cultural Experience

Restaurants to Try in Gopeng:

• Kristal Jade Seafood Restaurant
• Idamsa Cafe
• Miera Kitchen

22. Taman Negara

Taman Negara is a national park in northern Pahan. It was established in 1938 and means “national park” in Malay. Taman Negara is one of the world’s oldest deciduous rainforests. It’s estimated to be over 130 million years old.

When visiting Taman Negara, you can explore the canopy walkway among the treetops as well as the Gua Telinga cave system. You can also take adventure excursions on the Lata Berkoh rapids.

Or experience the tropical rainforest by going birdwatching or jungle trekking as well as enjoying a river cruise along the Tahan River. 

Taman Negara Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Taman Negara hotels: ✔️ Multiara Taman Negara Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Taman Negara River View Lodge 💰💰 ✔️ Danz Eco Resort 💰

Taman Negara Activities to Try:

• Enjoy a Taman Negara tour
• Relax along the river and watch wildlife

Restaurants to Try in Taman Negara:

• Taman Negara Floating Restaurant
• Family Restaurant Taman Negara
• Seri Multiara Restaurant

23. Kuala Sepetang

This small city in Perak is known for eco-tourism. The most popular activity here is tours of the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, where you can also enjoy seeing eagles and other wildlife.

Tours can be done by boat or on one of the walking paths.

Some wildlife guides also offer dolphin spotting tours, which are very popular, too. And you may also enjoy touring the local charcoal factory to see how it’s made.

Kuala Sepetang Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend the Happy 8 Retreat for staying in Kuala Sepetang.

Restaurants to Try in Kuala Sepetang:

• Xin Seafood Restaurant
• Lian Thong Restaurant
• Restoran Tepi Sungai

24. Jungle Railway of the East Coast

The Jungle Railway of the East Coast is a great activity for all ages. It starts in Tumpat and ends in Gemas. Fly into and stay overnight in Kota Bahru, next to Tumpat, and watch the sunset Pantai Cahaya Bulan.

The journey takes about seven hours. You can enjoy the scenery and learn about the history of Malaysia.

When arriving at Gemas, stay overnight at Awanmulan so you can hike Brogas Hill before heading home the next day.

This is a great activity because it is relatively affordable and it is a unique experience. In addition, there are several stops along the way where you can get off the train and explore different towns.

👉 Stay at PCB Beach Resort in Kota Bahru and The View Hotel in Sengamat, nearby Gemas. Or you can have a taxi take you 90 minutes to Melaka.

If you don’t want to get off the train for lunch, because you do have to wait for the next one to come by and pick you up again, bring some snacks or a picnic to eat as you enjoy the window views.

Short Getaways in Malaysian Borneo

Whether you’ve seen it all on the peninsula or just want a unique adventure, Malaysian Borneo delivers!

25. Kota Kinabalu

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu (KK), is a gateway to climbing Mount Kinabalu. It’s also home to rainforests, wildlife, beaches, and coral reefs. You may find that 2-3 nights here isn’t enough.

From the Mari Mari Cultural Village and handicraft market to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar and Manukan Island Marine Reserve, there are many activities to do on a short getaway here.

Pro Tip : Stop by the I Love KK sign at the waterfront for a fun pic!

Little Man really enjoyed the musical fountain at Tanjung Aru Perdana Park as well as the Aquarium and Marine Life Museum. If you have time left, make a trip to the Poring Hot Spring complex.

Kota Kinabalu Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels when staying in Kota Kinabalu: ✔️ Le Meridien KK 💰💰💰 ✔️ Shangri-La Rasa Ria 💰💰 ✔️ Hotel Grandis 💰

Kota Kinabalu Activities to Try:

• Visit Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, AND Sun Bear Sanctuaries
• Klias River Cruise with Fireflies
• Explore Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Springs !

Restaurants to Try in Kota Kinabalu:

• Brass Monkey Cafe
• Yee Fung Laksa
• Pete’s Corner

26. Kuching

Kuching is next to Bako National Park, the oldest national park in Sarawak. It’s an easy day trip from Kuching, although the only way to access the park is a 20-minute boat ride from the village of Kampung Bako.

Millions of years of erosion of the sandstone have created a coastline of steep cliffs and stretches of white, sandy beaches.

Wave erosion at the base of the cliffs has carved many of the rocks into fantastically shaped arches and columns.

In addition, animal lovers will enjoy a visit to Kuching’s cat museum and to the Semenggoh Nature Preserve, where you can book a tour to see wild orangutans!

Kuching Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Kuching hotels: ✔️ Cove 55 Damai Beach 💰💰💰 (outside Kuching city) ✔️ The Waterfront Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ Imperial Hotel 💰

Kuching Activities to Try:

• Bako National Park Day Trip
• Sarawak Cultural Village Tour
• Satang Island Day Trip

Restaurants to Try in Kuching:

• Kids Cafe Metrocity
• Chilled Out!
• Sunny Hill Ice Cream

27. Sandakan

This city on the northern coast of Sabah offers unique opportunities to see a variety of wildlife including orangutans, turtles, monkeys, and sun bears.

There’s also a Rainforest Discovery Center that teaches you about fragile rainforest ecosystems.

You can either go on a jungle trek or a river cruise into the jungle to see them in the wild or you can visit a few sanctuaries for rescued animals that can’t be released back into the wild.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, and Turtle Islands National Park are all located in or very near Sandakan.

Sandakan Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in Sandakan: ✔️ Sabah Hotel 💰💰 ✔️ D North Star Hotel & Spa 💰

Sandakan Activities to Try:

• Private Full-Day Tour of Animal Sanctuary Visits
• Sandakan Heritage Walking Tour
• Overnight on Selingan Island to watch sea turtles

👉 Want to see all the best wildlife Sandakan has to offer? Book this two-night jungle getaway !

Restaurants to Try in Sandakan:

• English Tea House & Restaurant
• Harbour Bistro Lodge
• Balin Roof Garden Bistro

28. Gunung Mulu National Park

Located next to the country of Brunei, in Northern Sarawak, Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s famous for its caves and karst formations in a mountainous equatorial rainforest setting.

You can even visit Deer Cave, the largest cave on earth. Families who spend a short getaway in Malaysia at this national park will certainly not be disappointed!

In addition to cave expeditions, you can explore multiple waterfall formations including Latak Waterfall and Eastern Julan Waterfall. Make sure to include a trip to the top of the Mulu Tree Top Tower, for exquisite views of the rainforest.

Gunung Mulu Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Gunung Mulu hotels: ✔️ Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa 💰💰 ✔️ Benarat Lodge 💰

Restaurants to Try in Gunung Mulu National Park:

• Good Luck Cave’fe Mulu

Short Island Getaways in Malaysia

Many Malaysian islands are overlooked in favor of Thailand or Indonesia, but they shouldn’t be! Here are my top picks if you want a fabulous island experience in Malaysia.

29. Langkawi Island

Langkawi is off the coast of Perlis, at the northern edge of Malaysia along the Thailand border. It sports the same sort of beautiful jungles and pristine beaches for which the southern Thai islands are well known.

Your biggest challenge in Langkawi will be choosing what activities to exclude during your short getaway in Malaysia. This large island is also well-suited for a longer trip.

I recommend staying at one of the resorts with private pool villas but there are also some amazing family-friendly resorts there as well.

You’ll find many things to do here, including the Langkawi Sky Bridge and Langkawi Skyway Cable Car. These options both offer excellent views of both the island and the ocean.

You can also visit Langkawi Underwater World or Langkawi Wildlife Park and go snorkeling or scuba diving in Pulau Payor Marine Park when you aren’t relaxing on Cenang Beach or Tanjung Rhu Beach.

Telaga Tujuh Waterfall is also a lot of fun!

Langkawi Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Langkawi hotels : ✔️ Ritz-Carlton Langkawi or St. Regis Langkawi 💰💰💰 ✔️ Berjaya Langkawi or Pelangi Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Adya Hotel Langkawi or Sri Embun Resort 💰

Langkawi Activities to Try:

• Kayak through Mangroves
• Go island hopping through the archipelago
• Explore the Langkawi Geopark

Restaurants to Try in Langkawi:

• The Fat Frog
• Pia’s the Padi
• Kaka Western Food

30. Penang Island

Penang Island is off the coast of Penang state, on the western coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Penang Island is a great place for a short getaway in Malaysia.

Many people have a hard time deciding on Penang vs Langkawi .

The island has plenty of things to do, especially George Town, including visiting the Penang National Park, going on a jungle trek, and visiting the Batu Ferringhi Night Market.

You can also visit the Penang Butterfly Farm or take a dip in the ocean at Monkey Beach. In addition, visit Kek Lok Si Temple and Fort Cornwallis for some interactive history adventures.

Penang Hotels and Activities

👉 In addition to splurging on a Penang hotel a with private pool , I recommend these hotels in Penang: ✔️ Macalister Mansion 💰💰💰 ✔️ Hard Rock Hotel Penang 💰💰 ✔️ Shangri La Golden Sands Resort 💰

Penang Activities to Try:

• Go on a Food Tour
• Cool Off at Escape Penang Waterpark
• Find all the best Penang Street Art

Restaurants to Try on Penang Island:

• Nasi Kandar Line Clear
• New Lane Hawker Centre
• Sungai Pinang food court (for some delicious street food!)

31. Tioman Island

Last but certainly not least, Tioman Island is a wonderful short getaway in Malaysia.

There are a lot of fun things to do on the island. Our friends got scuba certified there and claim it’s the best scuba diving they’ve done.

People who aren’t into scuba can go snorkeling to also explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Tioman Island. You can also visit the Turtle Hatchery and learn about these amazing creatures.

For land activities, take a hike through the jungle and discover hidden waterfalls. You can also relax on one of the many pristine beaches.

The best part of Tioman Island is that there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. And, at the end of the day, you can all relax in your comfortable hotel room or villa.

Tioman Hotels and Activities

👉 Some hotels I recommend for staying on Tioman Island are: ✔️ Berjaya Tioman Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Juara Mutiara Resort 💰

Tioman Activities to Try:

• Get SCUBA certified
• Visit the Turtle Hatchery

There are also many great restaurants on Tioman Island that you’ll love on a short getaway in Malaysia. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Tom’s Place (seafood)
• Fong Lye (Chinese)
• Ali’s Roti Canai (Indian)

32. Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are islands off the eastern coast of Terengganu. They’re a quick flight for a short getaway from KL in Malaysia.

The two main islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, but there are a few uninhabited smaller islands as well.

Scuba diving here is reputed to be some of the best in Malaysia. However, there are seemingly endless beaches to explore for those who aren’t certified.

The Alunan Coral Project is run by Alunan resort on the southern end of Perhentian Kecil. It focuses on preventing and reversing coral bleaching in the island’s reefs. You can volunteer there if you contact them in advance.

Perhentian Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for your stay in the Perhentian Islands: ✔️ Bubu Perhentian Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Mimpi Perhentian Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Berhat Perhention Resort 💰

Perhentian Activities to Try:

• Kayak the Terengganu
• Volunteer at Alunan Coral Project
• Learn to scuba dive

Restaurants to Try in the Perhentian Islands:

• Crocodile Rock Bistro
• Ewan’s Restaurant
• Keranji Beach Cafe

33. Pangkor Laut Island

👉 Pangkor Laut Island is a privately owned island by Pangkor Laut Resort off the eastern coast of Perak.

The accommodations here are a five-star, luxury resort that guarantees you’ll have a very enjoyable short getaway in Malaysia.

Most people come here to relax and enjoy the beautiful private beaches. However, don’t skip visiting the 17th-century ruins of a Dutch fort on the south end of the island.

The Fu Lin Kong and Lin Je Kong temples are also located on Pangkor Laut and are worth visiting, too.

Restaurants to Try on Pangkor Laut Island:

• Feast Village
• Street Stall Burger (Western & Thai Food)
• Uncle Lim’s Kitchen

34. Lang Tengah Island

Lang Tengah Island is another island in Terengganu that is also connected to the mainland by ferries from Merang.

It has clear blue water and white sand beaches that offer excellent opportunities for families to go both snorkeling and scuba diving.

You can also visit Lang Tengah Turtle Watch, which is a non-profit organization focused on saving Malaysian Sea Turtles.

Plus, you can even volunteer there for a couple of nights. However, do note they offer basic jungle living not a resort experience.

Lang Tengah Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these Lang Tengah hotels for your trip: ✔️ Summer Bay Resort 💰💰 ✔️ Sari Pacifica Resort Lang Tengah 💰💰

Restaurants to Try on Lang Tengah:

• Koko Restaurant

35. Redang Island

Located off the coast of Terengganu, Redang Island is the perfect short getaway for families. In addition to relaxing on the beach and playing in the ocean, there are a few other fun things to do on Redang Island.

The Turtle Sanctuary is a great place to learn about the different types of turtles that call Redang Island home. Depending on the season, you can even help release baby turtles into the ocean!

In addition, the Terengganu Marine Park is a beautiful place to explore since there are many different types of fish and coral to see.

You can also go snorkeling or diving in the park. It’s easiest to go with a guided tour.

Redang Island Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for a short vacation on Redang Island: ✔️ Taaras Beach & Spa Resort 💰💰💰 ✔️ Sari Pacifica Resort Redang 💰💰 ✔️ Redang de Rimba Resort 💰

The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort has all the amenities one would expect from a high-end resort: a fabulous beach, a kids club, two swimming pools, and a spa.

There are also assorted on site activities and you can also enjoy the many restaurants and bars at the resort.

Restaurants to Try on Redang Island:

• Redang Moon
• Pelangi Bistro
• Kayu Manis Restaurant & Bar

36. Rawa Island

Rawa is a relatively small, private island off the eastern coast of Johor which means it’ll be a very quiet short getaway in Malaysia. There are no proper roads, only a few walkways.

One side of the island is a beach covered with white sand, while the other side has a rocky vertical cliff.

There are many sea and land creatures such as fish, squid, octopus, Malayan sea eagles, and reptiles.

Also blacktip reef sharks can be found feeding in the sea off Rawa. Rawa’s waters are clear and you can see an abundance of corals when snorkeling.

Pro Tip : Ask your resort about Jellyfish season before booking, so you don’t try to swim when it’s unsafe.

Because there isn’t much infrastructure here, you’ll only be able to eat meals at one of the two resorts on the island: Rawa Island Resort or Alang’s Rawa. Bring your own snacks if you’re worried about liking the resort food.

37. Kapas Island

Kapas Island is located just north of Marang in Terengganu. It has a tropical jungle, crystal clear water, white sand beaches, and coral reefs in the surrounding waters.

Reachable by ferry from Marang, the island is promoted as a “diving and snorkeling paradise”.

You can spend your short vacay in Malaysia on Kapas Island for a rustic beach escape or stay in Marang while taking day trips to Kapas.

When you need a break from the beach and snorkeling, take a hike to Bukit Singa on the northern tip of the island. It’s not very steep so most anyone can do this pretty easily. Wear sturdy shoes, not flip-flops!

Kapas Island Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for a Kapas Island short vacation in Malaysia: ✔️ Turtle Valley Resort (on Kapas) ✔️ OYO Hotel Pelangi (in Marang)

Restaurants to Try in Marang:

• D’Rhu Bayu Seafood Restaurant
• T’Kafe Cosmopal Family Restaurant
• Rhu Muda Chicken Chop Corner

If you stay on Kapas island, there isn’t much infrastructure there besides the hotels so you’ll be eating your meals at one of them.

38. Carey Island

Located in Selangor, just outside of KL, Carey Island is actually accessible by car from peninsular Malaysia. Kelanang and Tanjung Piai beaches are excellent for a weekend of relaxation and sun.

However, you will also enjoy visiting the Mah Meri Cultural Village and exploring Isana Bandar Palace. They’re great interactive learning opportunities for all ages.

In addition, you can climb to the top of the Bukit Junga lighthouse for lovely views of the Straits of Melaka as well as visit the Jugra Intitu Museum, which is in a converted colonial police station.

Carey Island Hotels and Activities

👉 I recommend these hotels for staying in or near Carey Island on a Malaysia short trip: ✔️ Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort 💰💰 (the only hotel on Carey Island) ✔️ The Canvas Hotel 💰 (across the river from Carey Island)

Restaurants to Try on Carey Island:

• Daifuku Japanese Restaurant
• I Suka Restaurant
• Burger Warisan D’Gazebo

39. Sibu Island

Located off of the eastern coast of Johor, not far from the Singapore border, Sibu Island is an excellent short trip in Malaysia. There is very little infrastructure there. However, there are a couple of resorts with meal-inclusive options.

Sea Gypsy Resort is wonderful a short getaway in Malaysia because it offers daily activities from hiking and boogie boarding to tree climbing and a home-made waterslide into the ocean.

There’s even a kids club with a separate kids dinner from 5-10 pm so adults can enjoy a proper meal and social time in the bar.

The bar offers a wide variety of board games and books so you can entertain yourself, too. It’s a lovely short trip to Malaysia from Singapore!

Note : We spent Christmas 2020 here on a 3 days 2 night trip in Malaysia, and it was magical.

In addition to the resort activities, you can hike to the southern tip of the island, go snorkeling, and even go scuba diving.

David and I did a Discover Scuba Dive but Little Man was too young, so one of the other scuba instructors took him snorkeling 1:1.

Pro Tip : The hotel will pick you up at your address in Malaysia (even in KL) and drive you to the Johor jetty and then by boat to Sibu Island.

👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!

Final Thoughts on a Short Getaway in Malaysia

Whether you want a short vacay city escape, a beach break, a short escape jungle adventure, or something else entirely there are a bunch of opportunities for a unique short getaway in Malaysia.

A Malaysia getaway offers diverse experiences, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage.

With this list, there’s definitely no more wondering where to go in Malaysia for short trip! They’re also great spots for your best staycation in Malaysia.

Fun Fact : If you took one of these short getaways in Malaysia per month, it would take over three years to do them all!

For just one country, there are countless ecosystems to explore in Malaysia. That’s probably one of the reasons the country has stolen our hearts!

Did we miss including a short getaway in Malaysia on this list? Contact us to tell us about it!

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Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad who travels the world with her family. She made the switch to blogging and content writing after spending more than a decade and a half working as a Human Resources Manager and Director.

Since transitioning her family to a digital nomad lifestyle, they've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years!

In addition to traveling extensively through Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean, she's also visited Asia, Europe, and South America.

She spent most of the pandemic living in Malaysia before living in Mexico for over a year and then driving the Pan-American Highway from the USA to the southernmost tip of Argentina.

Brodi is also a freelance SEO writer and editor, sharing her expertise with other companies and bloggers. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management.

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15 COOLEST Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur [2023!]

Best day trips from kuala lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur offers visitors a gateway into the very heart of Malaysia. From the amazing view offered by the Petronas Towers to simply strolling through its streets, the entire city is steeped in the rich and ancient history of the region.

Not all that Malaysia has to offer is kept within the city’s limits, and you may be tempted to steal away from the big city to explore even more.

But where exactly are the best spots to visit outside of the city? Should you head to the famous Batu Caves? Or perhaps go visit an elephant sanctuary? Or any of the other hundred options in the area? Well, that’s exactly why we’ve put this list together! To give you the very best day trips from Kuala Lumpur to choose from.

So read on to discover the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur with kids, as a couple, or if you’re on a budget, and get the very most out of your trip!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

• Romantic Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur for Couples – From Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Selangor Fireflies & Wildlife Tour
• Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur With Kids – Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary and Aboriginal Settlement
• Best Cheap Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur – From Kuala Lumpur: Genting Highlands and Batu Caves Day Trip

Best Places to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a big and busy place to visit. The city has a selection of good value accommodation on offer, from trendy flashpacker digs, to swanky towering hotels. The city centre can get pretty clogged up with traffic, so no matter what your budget is you should book a room near to a metro stop.

• Best Hostel in Kuala Lumpur •

Backhome kuala lumpur.

• Highly reviewed hostel

Trendy backpacker hostels are hot news in Kuala Lumpur at the moment, and this place is leading the pack. With its stream of glowing reviews, helpful staff, and a top location close to a central metro stop, there’s not much more to say apart from go ahead and book it!

• Best Budget Hotel in Kuala Lumpur •

City comfort hotel bukit bintang.

• Amazing location for food, transport and culture

Offering rooms at very low prices, this is totally one of the top budget hotels in Kuala Lumpur. Rooms here are modern and clean and those higher up boast great city views. Location-wise, it’s right in the heart of Chinatown and well connected by two metro lines.

• Best Luxury Hotel in Kuala Lumpur •

The ritz-carlton, kuala lumpur.

• Affordable luxury

If you’ve ever dreamed at staying at the Ritz, this one is a releavity affordable way to try out that undeniable luxury. There’s a selection of swish rooms complete with all of the high-end trimmings that you’d expect: it’s the Ritz! The location is close to shopping malls and public transport stops.

Staying Safe in Kuala Lumpur

While Kuala Lumpur is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Malaysia!

#1 Best Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur – Kuala Selangor Firefly and Wildlife Tour

Romantic day trips from kuala lumpur for couples.

• View tens of thousands of fireflies from the river
• Visit the historical Kota Melawati Fort
• Visit the bird sanctuary near Bukit Melawati

Fireflies have always had a romantic effect on most of us, but the sights to behold at Kuala Selangor take it to the next level for you and your significant other. Your trip will begin with a visit to the old fort Kota Melawati for a taste of the region’s history.

You’ll then move on to a local bird sanctuary, but don’t worry if birds don’t appeal to you, Silvered Leaf Monkeys live there too!

Your trip with culminates as a local oarsman propels you upstream to observe the thousands and thousands of fireflies that flock to the trees at night and illuminate each and every one like tropical Christmas trees.

The magic of Kuala Selangor is absolutely spellbinding and makes for one of the best romantic day trips from Kuala Lumpur.

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#2 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh

• Dive into the food at Ipoh Market
• Observe British colonial architecture
• View the stunning Rail Station and Perak Tong Temples

If your significant other and you share an affinity for tasty food, then a food tour of Ipoh is one of the best romantic day trips from Kuala Lumpur for couples that you could ask for.

You’ll first visit the architecturally striking Ipoh Rail Station before heading to the Perak Tong cave temples to marvel at their collection of Buddha Statues.

After the cave temples, you’ll then head to the famous Ipoh Market, observing British colonial buildings along the way. Once at the market, you can wade through the endless food options to get a taste of traditional Malaysian culinary creations before heading back to Kuala Lumpur.

You’ll end this trip comfortably full from delicious market food and visually striking architecture and culture, the perfect conclusion to a romantic trip with your partner.

#3 – Cameron Highlands Tour

• Visit a local tea plantation
• Pick your own fruit at a countryside farm
• Stroll through a fruit and vegetable market

If you and your significant other agree that you need a break from the crowds of busy Kuala Lumpur, then head out to the Cameron Highlands for a day in the country .

Together, you’ll explore the romantic hills as you learn about the tea growing process at a local plantation and pick your own strawberries at a nearby farm.

You can also meander through a local fruit and vegetable market as you admire the local produce, and perhaps buy a little to take back to Kuala Lumpur.

You’ll then have the opportunity to enjoy a locally prepared meal together and sample some of the local dishes. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Lata Iskandar waterfall before heading back to the city in the evening.

#4 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Crab Island

• Enjoy colorful murals and houses
• Sample fresh seafood
• Stroll through the streets of a traditional fishing village

Pulau Ketam, or Crab Island, is a small island just off the coast from the town of Port Klang and offers a full day’s worth of exploring and culinary indulgences for everyone that visits.

You will find a colorful collection of murals throughout the Port Klang village as you walk or cycle your way around, and equally numerous colorful buildings that make the perfect photo backdrop.

Be sure to sample the large array of seafood at any of the village’s many stalls and restaurants where you can find anything from squid, to crab, to fish and everything in between!

While there are no beautiful swimming beaches in Pulau, we still believe it is well worth a visit to explore and dive into the Malaysian fishing culture. Just remember to check ferry schedules before you go!

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#5 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Port Dickson

• Relax on beautiful beaches
• Visit the Blue Lagoon
• Grab tasty coastal food

This lovely coastal town is the perfect choice if you’re on the hunt for day trips from Kuala Lumpur by car and a beach to cool off at.

A 90 minute or so drive south from the big city will bring you to these sandy and picturesque beaches and you’ll hopefully have your pick of spots to stop at and relax.

The beaches extend for miles along the coast, and the road conveniently follows suit, so simply pick the stopping point that suits you most.

Be sure to swing by the Blue Lagoon a little further south to sample its crystal clear waters and coral reef. When you’re finished at the beach, head into the town for some delicious food or to visit one of the museums/galleries in town.

#6 – Elephant Sanctuary

Best day trips from kuala lumpur with kids.

• See Asian Elephants
• Learn about elephant protection
• Experience the local indigenous culture

An exciting trip full of frolicking elephants and fascinating history is a sure win for families looking to take a break from the city sights.

This day trip from Kuala Lumpur will take you to a historic aboriginal settlement where you can see the local culture in its day-to-day routine, and learn about the indigenous peoples of Malaysia.

After the aboriginal settlement, you’ll head to the Asian Elephant Sanctuary that was specially constructed to save elephants put at risk to habitat loss. You’ll learn of the destructive effects of deforestation, and the uplifting stories of these elephants being nurtured back to full health.

Enjoy watching the Asian Elephant Sanctuary staff work with these gentle giants and enjoy an included lunch before heading back to the city.

This is without a doubt one of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur with kids, they will love being so close to these fascinating creatures, and learning about what is being done to help them.

#7 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca

• View the oldest European architectural remains on the Asian continent
• Visit the Dutch and Portuguese Squares
• Stroll through the Jonker Walk Bazaar

The fascinating history and architecture of Malacca make it the perfect day trip from Kuala Lumpur with kids for those historically inclined families.

Your trip will take you from St. Peter’s Church in Dutch Square off to the oldest surviving European architectural remains on the entire continent at A Famosa, a famous fort dating back hundreds of years.

You’ll then pay a visit to the Portuguese Square, or mini Lisbon, for yet another architectural shift in the city before heading off to the iconic Jonker Walk Bazaar where you can wander at will and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.

While perusing through the bazaar, don’t forget to try some of the many tasty treats and local delicacies on offer!

Check this out! – Our complete guide to the most underrated and coolest neighborhoods in Kuching!

#8 – Putrajaya Visit and Segway Tour

• Visit the Putra and Iron Mosques
• See the iconic Seri Wawasan Bridge
• View the Prime Minister’s Office

A Segway tour of the enchanting city of Putrajaya is the perfect day trip from Kuala Lumpur with kids.

Your trip includes a brief instructional lesson, and then your crew heads out, or rolls out rather, to find the sights. See the striking Putra Mosque as well as the most iconic bridge in the city, the Seri Wawasan.

You’ll then head to the Iron Mosque and catch a glimpse of the Malaysian Prime Minister’s office to round off your trip. Be sure to visit one of Putrajaya’s delicious eateries after, or even during, your trip!

#9 – Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

• Visit 1 of 6 Different Theme Parks
• Exciting Water Park
• Spend time with the characters in Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon

If the kids need a serious break from history and sightseeing, then consider a well-deserved day off at the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park .

The park actually contains 6 different parks in one, and you can take your pick between the water park, or one of the different themed amusement parks, or head on over to Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon to visit some of the kid’s favorite characters.

This relaxing family day trip from Kuala Lumpur is sure to recharge your batteries and make you ready to keep exploring the country!

#10 – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara

• Enjoy a canopy walk
• Explore the area with a jungle trek
• Lunch in a floating restaurant

You’re sure to find something for everyone in the family with a day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Taman Negara National Park . The Park protects the largest tract of ancient rainforest in the entire country while also hosting the tallest mountain in the region.

The striking rivers have a lush canopy full of animals and adventure, and you have the perfect combination for a phenomenal family trip!

You’ll have the chance to try jungle trekking, boating, and a canopy walk as you explore this majestic landscape and learn about the flora and fauna from a naturalist guide.

You’ll also enjoy lunch in a scenic floating restaurant before heading back to Kuala Lumpur that afternoon.

#11 – Genting Highlands and Batu Caves

Best cheap day trips from kuala lumpur.

• Relax at the country’s only casino resort
• Ride the scenic Genting Skyway cable car
• Visit the famous Batu Caves

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur and feel like experiencing a mix of history and luxury while not breaking the bank, then consider a day trip up to Genting Highlands and Batu Caves .

Take a cable car up into the cool climates and breath in the exhilarating mountain air as you escape the stifling confines of the city. Try unwinding with some cards or slots at the country’s only casino resort, or blow off some steam at the theme park that comes complete with its very own simulated skydiving center.

You’ll then return to Kuala Lumpur via the historic Batu Caves, where you’ll see the incredible and vivid murals that adorn this cave shrine to the Hindu faith and one of the tallest statues of a Hindu deity in all of Asia.

#12 – Batu Cave Cultural Tour

• Climb the 272 steps to the famous Hindu shrine
• View the famous statue of Lord Murugan
• Visit the Royal Selangor Pewter factory

If you’re fascinated by the ancient history of this region, but prefer to explore on the frugal side, then take an easy day trip to the Batu Cave complex . This ancient temple is housed in a series of limestone caves that feature beautiful murals from the Hindu religion as well as several gilded alters.

The entrance to the cave is protected by a massive statue of Lord Murugan, the 2 nd tallest statue of a Hindu deity in the world, as well as the iconic 272 steps to the first shrine.

Your tour will also include a visit to the world-renowned Royal Selangor Pewter factory where you’ll learn the ins and outs of fine pewter craftsmanship before embarking on the return journey back to Kuala Lumpur.

Recommended Article –  If you are going to stay in Penang, you should check out our article about Where to stay in Penang.

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#13 – Elephants, Fireflies, and Caves Tour

• Visit the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary
• Take in the sights at the Batu Caves
• See the enchanting fireflies of Bukit Melawati

If many of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur that we’ve mentioned so far interest you, but you’re on a tight schedule and prefer a quick whirlwind of all the best sights outside the city, then this is the trip for you!

You’ll start with a visit to the famous Batu caves to marvel at the limestone cave shrines to the Hindu faith and famous statue guarding its entrance.

You’ll then head to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary where you’ll learn of these gentle giants from the trained professionals and their lucky escape from habitat loss.

You may even be lucky enough to lend a hand in bathing the elephants in a shallow river! Your day trip will conclude at Bukit Melawati as you climb aboard a boat for a scenic trip down the river.

As the sun sets, your jaw will drop as the stunning fireflies of the region swarm along the river’s bank and up into the trees, illuminating the night sky.

#14 – Day Trip From Kuala Lumpur to Bentong

• Visit the Chamang Waterfall
• Hike through forest preserves
• Enjoy local food

For an example of small-town Malaysia away from city life, head north to the village of Bentong for an easy day trip from Kuala Lumpur by car.

The town is full of places to grab a tasty bite to eat and sample some authentic Malaysian food, and the surrounding area is bristling with nature to explore.

Visit the Chamang Waterfall in the neighboring forest reserves, and go for a hike through the endless forests to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country.

If you’re in the mood for a more resort-like feel, head out of town to the Colmar Tropical Resort for French-themed buildings and food.

#15 – Day Trip From Kuala Lumpur to Fraser’s Hill

• Visit the resort town of Fraser’s hill
• Enjoy some of the many walks in the area
• Visit Jeriau Waterfall

Perhaps one of the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur with kids or significant others is Fraser’s Hill. Originally founded as a tin-ore trading post, the location now features a resort town that boasts some of the best bird watching and jungle hiking in the entire country.

The lower temperatures of Fraser’s Hill provide a welcome break from the heat at lower altitudes, and the lush rainforest canopy provides the gateway to a world of romantic exploration through the ancient forests.

There are a few different food options to choose from, but the main attraction is the outdoor life. Be sure to pay a visit to Jeriau Waterfall for a refreshing midday swim during your hikes! You can also check more COOLEST places to visit in Malaysia .

Bonus Trip! – Day Trip from Kuala Lumpur to Sekinchan

• Learn about the rice growing industry and culture
• Visit the Paddy Processing Factory and Museum
• Enjoy delicious food on Seafood Street

Sekinchan is the perfect day-trip location for viewing the work and culture that surrounds Malaysia’s rice paddy industry.

The fields produce huge quantities of rice for the local food market, and the Paddy Processing Factory and Museum will give you all the information you need to understand the history and current importance of this process.

The nearby fishing village adds its contribution to this food market with an abundance of fresh-caught seafood. We highly recommend you give this delicious food a taste at one of the many eateries lining ‘seafood street’.

You should also plan to visit Sekinchan’s beautiful wishing tree at Pantai Redang Beach and throw your own lucky red ribbon up into its branches.

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

There you go everyone! We’ve covered the best day trips from Kuala Lumpur for nearly every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a romantic get away with your significant other or trying to find something that will keep both yourself and your kids interested, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect trip on this list.

We’ve also included a few low-cost options for those budget travelers out there. Plus, here’s a guide to the best hostels in Kuala Lumpur to save you time and money while in the beautiful area.

Enjoy your trip to Kuala Lumpur and don’t forget, the surrounding area is bursting with day trip opportunities!

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Wander-Lush

Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get around Malaysia

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

→ Check timetables and book tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to go in Malaysia: Cities & culture

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

George Town (Penang)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kota Kinabalu

Recommended by Khushboo, Munni of All Trades

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Sharon, Dive into Malaysia

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

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

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

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

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

Bukit Mertajam

By Marco Ferrarese, Penang Insider

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

Recommended by Sonakshi and Mainak, Places In Pixel

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

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

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

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

Johor Bahru

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kek Lok Si Temple

Recommended by Rose, Where Goes Rose

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Nature, adventure & wildlife

Cameron highlands.

Recommended by Luke, The Coastal Campaign

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

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

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

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

Teman Negara

Recommended by Stephen, Asia-Hikes

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

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

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

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

Gunung Mulu National Park

Recommended by Oksana and Max, Drink Tea & Travel

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Rachita, Nomllers

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

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

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

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

Danum Valley

Recommended by James Ian, Travel Collecting

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

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

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

Gua Tempurung

Recommended by Iuliya, Vidadeliya

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Marya, The BeauTraveler

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

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

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

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

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

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

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

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

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

Where to go in Malaysia: Islands & beaches

Recommended by Cathy, Mummy Travels

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

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

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

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

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

Port Dickson

Recommended by Allison, Urbanite Diary

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

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

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

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

Sipadan Island

Recommended by Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perhentian Islands

Recommended by Lotte, Phenomenal Globe

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

Recommended by Kirsten, Sand in My Curls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tioman Island

By Vivien and Aaron, The Dharma Trails

Tioman Island is located off Malaysia’s east coast and is accessible by ferry. It’s a perfect getaway for anyone interested in eco travel due to its natural beauty and abundant wildlife .

Apart from the stunning beaches and amazing coral reefs, there are jungle walking trails and waterfall hikes that offer unique insight into the tropical flora and fauna.

Alternatively, you can relax on the beach with an ice-cold beer and enjoy some of the great local restaurants. Be sure to check out Golden Dish Cafe , who grow their own organic vegetables, use locally caught fish, and can also whip up some traditional, herbal drinks with medicinal properties.

The Juarta Turtle Project at Mentawak Beach works with the local community to educate and protect marine life. They offer volunteering experiences for those willing to stay a while.

Where to go in Malaysia: Resorts

Avani sepang goldcoast resort, sepang.

Recommended by Stephanie, History Fangirl

The gorgeous town of Sepang is home to the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort , which has the distinction of being one of the least expensive overwater bungalow resorts anywhere in the world.

Located on the coast roughly halfway between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, it’s the perfect place for couples and solo travellers looking to relax and rejuvenate. If you are a spa lover, check into the resort and soak up all the amenities. Schedule yourself a few treatments so you can take full advantage of your surroundings.

If you want to explore Sepang itself, visit the beautiful nearby mosque, or enjoy a mangrove river cruise . Make sure you set aside some time to see the absolutely stunning sunsets over the water. They are some of the most vibrant anywhere in the world.

You can get to Sepang from Kuala Lumpur by bus, train, or by hiring a private driver.

Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands

Recommended by Sandy and Vyjay, Voyager

Resorts World Genting is an integrated leisure centre on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali, about 55 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. It’s a favourite holiday getaway popular among locals as well as tourists.

Resorts World Genting is a collection of premium hotels, resorts, shopping arcades, theme parks, and restaurants. It is a complete leisure and entertainment destination that also has the advantage of enjoying pleasant temperatures throughout the year. One of the largest hotels in the world, the First World Hotel , is located inside.

Some of the top things to do in Genting include a visit to the Chin Swee Temple , a virtual reality experience at The Void , and the Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park. Whether you’re looking for local cuisine, Mexican, Italian or Pan Asian vegetarian fare , there are a plethora of cafes and fine dining restaurants to cater to every palate. The famous local desserts like ice kacang and cendol are not to be missed, either.

Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi

Berjaya Hills is a resort theme park set in the cool hills above KL, adjacent to the Genting Highlands. Similar to Vietnam’s Ba Na Hills in Danang , it was created in the picture of a European village (in this case, France’s Colmar Tropicale). It’s definitely one of the more touristy places to visit in Malaysia, but if you’re travelling with kids, it’s a fun way to break from the city.

The centre of the small town is dominated by Bavarian-style houses , each containing a restaurant or cafe (most of them dishing up European cuisine). Botanical Gardens and Japanese Gardens , a golf course and a number of shrines are embedded in the forest beyond the town.

Malaysia essentials

Here are some of the resources I use when planning a trip to Malaysia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Malaysia on Kiwi.com , a booking site that mixes and matches airlines to find the best route (if you miss your connection, you get your money back).

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Malaysia and apply for an expedited visa online.

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer from Kuala Lumpur Airport to your hotel or pre-purchase your KLIA Airport Train tickets online and skip the queue.

SHORT ON TIME? Try this KL layover city tour to see the best of the city in a short period of time.

SIM CARD: Purchase an Airalo eSIM for Malaysia and get instant access to the net when you arrive.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Malaysia on Agoda or book a Malaysia hostel .

BUS & TRAIN TICKETS: Buy your bus or train tickets online in advance using Bookaway .

MARKET TOURS & COOKING CLASSES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Malaysia here on Cookly .

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Malaysia here on Get Your Guide.

MALAYSIA GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Malaysia .

Which of these beautiful places in Malaysia do you want to visit? Do you have any extra recommendations for travellers wondering where to go in Malaysia? Share your best tips in the comments below!

Where to go in Malaysia: Share it on Pinterest

17 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this excellent post!

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

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

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

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

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

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• 11 Best Places To Visit Near Kuala Lumpur On Your Next Malay-Vacay

09 May 2024

The capital of Malaysia, decorated by transcending skyscrapers, Islamic style arches, and monuments are a treat to your eyes. Kuala Lumpur, is a city that is isolated into a few areas and incorporates Bukit Bintang, Chinatown and KLCC. With Malay, Chinese and Indian people group living respectively amicably, Kuala Lumpur is rambling with old culture as mosques and temples. This is also added with a lot of places to visit near Kuala Lumpur and we are going to tell you about some of the best tourist attractions that you must visit.

11 Places To Visit Near Kuala Lumpur

Blessed with a few tourist spots to see near Kuala Lumpur like the world’s biggest secured KL Bird Park or the verdant coverings of banyan trees, here are some places to visit near Kuala Lumpur.

1. Sekeping Serendah

If you’re a nature lover and enjoy doing extraordinary things, here’s what you should do! Away from the coarse urban scene of kuala Lumpur, Sekeping Serendah is an enchanting cottage set among five sections of land of tropical rainforest, an hour from Kuala Lumpur. It is one of the best tourist places near Kuala Lumpur. Trekking and trip climbing are among the numerous things on offer for the adventure junkies.  You may also relax in the open-style rooms and just value the harmony and calm of this unplugged spot.

Distance from KL: 39.6 km

Must Read: Restaurants Near Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower

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2. Penang (Pulau Pinang)

Named the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is a top destination island in the north of Malaysia. Celebrated for its sandy sea shores, authentic destinations and different temples, this weekend getaway could be a whole staycation in its own right. Furthermore, the comfort here is likewise a significant draw to guests. You’ll see how different varieties of local cuisines in Kuala Lumpur change the further you trek north.

Distance from KL: 293 km

3. Batu Caves

A 272-advance long trek drives you to this extremely old cave in limestone which is likely one of the most well-known places of interest in Malaysia. There are three major caverns with symbols and statues raised inside. Among them, the Cathedral Cave is most visited for its age-old 100m high curved roof and a few Hindu holy places inside. Batu Caves comes in the best places to visit near Kuala Lumpur.

Distance from KL: 19.2 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur For Adventure

4. Kuala Selangor

Traveling to the west side of Kuala Lumpur, you will come to a small town in front of a beach – Kuala Selangor. It is home to the biggest firefly colony which makes it amongst the most anticipated tourist attractions near Kuala Lumpur. The most ideal approach to see the fireflies is on the boat on Selangor waterfall with neighborhood fishermen who will give you data about the territory.

On the off chance that the fireflies aren’t sufficient for you, Kuala Selangor is additionally home to the Melawati Bird Sanctuary. Here wildlife enthusiasts can spot endless animals and monkeys.

Distance from KL: 68.1 km

5. Genting Highlands

Whenever you are visiting Kuala Lumpur, make a point to travel to Genting Highlands, Malaysia’s only gambling club resort nestled in the mountains in the north of Kuala Lumpur. If betting isn’t your thing, you can enjoy yourself in the indoor/open-air amusement park. To enjoy the best experiences in Genting Highlands , don’t forget to go on the longest and quickest cable-car ride in Asia that will give you an amazing view from the amusement park. 

Distance from KL: 55.2 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days

6. Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands are 200 kilometers outside of Kuala Lumpur and the traveling takes around three hours both ways. The driveway takes you through wonderful green woodlands before landing at Malaysia’s biggest good countries resort. Moreover, the temperatures are cooler and the air is discernibly fresher in the Cameron Highlands which makes it an extraordinary spot to escape to during the warm summer months. Visiting the tea ranches and sipping on a decent warm cup of tea is indeed one of the the best things to do in Cameron Highlands . You can pick strawberries on strawberry plantations, roam through rose gardens, and visit butterfly and bumblebee plantations.

Distance from KL: 200 km

Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a small town — different than the rushing about of Kuala Lumpur. Malacca was once home to both Portuguese and Dutch pilgrims, and you can observe the two societies in the community. If you need to become familiar with the early pioneers, visit the Malacca Museum, structured in splendid pink structures that used to be home to Dutch authoritative workplaces. It is one of the scenic cities near Kuala Lumpur. Jonker Street is home to the greatest market in the town, where you can shop till you drop.

Distance from KL: 145.7 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Parliament House In Kuala Lumpur

Bentong is an interesting town that was initially crafted by excavators after they discovered tin in the Perting and Repas valleys. It is the ideal spot to escape the hustle of the city life and enjoy best day trips from Kuala Kumpur. If you have a sweet tooth, make a point to taste some portion of the neighborhood custom made frozen yogurt or the pineapple puffs in the locals.

Distance from KL: 68.3 km

9. Taman Negara

If you are a nature aficionado then Taman Negara is a must-visit. Taman Negara is home to the absolute rarest creatures and is probably the most seasoned rainforest on earth. Day treks with nearby aides are accessible or you can do multi-day treks if you are in the mood for dozing out with the natural life. Boat rides are also something that you can try in while in Taman Negara.

Distance from KL: 240 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur For Kids

9. Batu Ferringhi, Penang Island

Image Credit: pasja1000 for Pixabay

Batu Ferringhi Beach, one of Penang’s most popular attractions. It is one of the best beaches near Kuala Lumpur. The beach is unsafe for swimming due to a large jellyfish population, but there are plenty of other things to do here to make up for it. There are many different water activities available for outdoor enthusiasts, such as banana boating, jet skiing, and parasailing. At dusk, a number of horseback riders can also be seen charging over the beach. It might be entertaining to explore the various food stands and beach shacks that are arranged along the sand here.

Distance from KL: 271 km

Klang is one of the best places to visit near Kuala Lumpur Malaysia . This place has a huge Indian population which probably makes it the most intriguing spot. Klang additionally has extraordinary shopping centers. Klang Parade and the Big Mall are only two of the numerous huge shopping buildings that you can wind up ending up spending a lot on the shopping their.

Distance from KL: 35 km

Further Read: Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a great cosmopolitan city with people from all walks of life residing here. Even though it is slightly more expensive than its neighboring Southeast Asian countries, one can afford it for a short layover or a city break. Make sure to plan a trip to Kuala Lumpur once for tasting good food, finding the best visiting spots and basking in the glory of its cosmopolitan vibe.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit near Kuala Lumpur

Are 2 days enough in Kuala Lumpur?

Yes, 2 days are enough to visit Kuala Lumpur. This gives you a chance to explore the sights of tourist attractions and capture an introduction to the best things to do and other experiences.

What are the most popular things to do in Kuala Lumpur with children?

You can enjoy having fun at Sunway Lagoon, visit Kidzania, indulge in the adventure at Skytrex, explore Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, and go sightseeing while holidaying with kids in Kuala Lumpur.

What is the currency in Malaysia?

The Malaysian Ringgit is the currency of Malaysia. You can also carry US$ and get it exchanged at the authorised shops.

What is the best time to visit Kuala Lumpur?

Your best time depends upon your preferences and purpose of visit. However, May to July or December to February is the best time to travel to Kuala Lumpur.

What is the coldest month in Malaysia?

January is the coldest month in Malaysia.

What are the most beautiful beaches near Kuala Lumpur?

Batu Ferringhi and Port Dickson are some of the best beaches near Kuala Lumpur.

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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

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

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

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

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

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

Kuala Kangsar

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

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

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

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Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

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

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

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

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

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

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

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

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

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redang Island

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

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

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

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

Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

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

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

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

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

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

Kota Kinabalu

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

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

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

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

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

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

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

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

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

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

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

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

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

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

It’s worth it!

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15 of the best things to do in Malaysia

Jan 22, 2024 • 11 min read

Experience the best of Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Can't decide between visiting dive sites and tropical beaches, hiking through mountains  or exploring swish city centers? Deliberate no more – Malaysia has you covered with its amazing array of things to do. 

This Southeast Asian nation has an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultures and cuisines. In the cities, minarets, mandirs and Chinese temples share the skyline with space-age high-rises. Beyond the urban bustle are rainforests, mountains and radiant beaches .

From Peninsular Malaysia to the island of Borneo , traditional arts, crafts and recipes endure – even as cities hurtle towards the latest architectural and gastronomic trends. Here are Malaysia's unmissable experiences.

1. Sip tea at the source in the Cameron Highlands

Once upon a time, Malaysia's sweaty British colonialists fled to higher ground, founding hill stations where they could retreat from the heat and jump-start a tea industry. The most famous are in the Cameron Highlands , and today it's mostly tourists (local and foreign) who come to seek respite from Malaysia's muggy lowlands.

These 1300m to 1829m heights (4265ft to 6000ft) offer plenty of hikes , as well as strawberry plantations and souvenir stalls where you can burn a few ringgit. But the quintessential Cameron experience is sipping a bronze-hued cuppa while looking out at the rippling carpet of tea plantations. 

Planning tip:  Boh Sungei Palas not only has emerald hillsides to gaze upon, it also has the most informative displays on tea-making. Alternatively, there's a splendid tea house overlooking the estate at Cameron Valley Tea House  and a further-flung option at  Boh Tea Garden , which offers guided tours. You're sure to find an experience that suits you (...to a T).

2. Climb up into the magical Batu Caves

Sheer limestone cliffs rise above you. Ahead stretches a staircase of 272 steps. And looking you smack in the eye is an imperious gilded statue, the Hindu god Lord Murugan.

Newcomers to Malaysia won't soon forget their first heady ascent to Batu Caves , nor the cheeky macaques that beset them on all sides. But this popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur (just 13km/8 miles, and easily done by train) also draws repeat visitors galore. Tourists, pilgrims and locals all clamor to experience this natural wonder and spiritual spectacle. 

This complex of limestone caverns has entrancing temples, each with dioramas showing mythical scenes. The central Temple Cave has been a Hindu shrine since 1890. After touring inside its two yawning chambers, take a side quest across a short bridge to the quieter Ramayana Cave , where dioramas illustrate the eponymous Sanskrit epic poem of duty and virtue.

Planning tip:  If the regular crowds don't daunt you, time your visit for the Thaipusam festival (late January or early February) when crowds of devotees descend upon the caves, some partaking in ritual piercings – it's an immersive and unforgettable event.

3. Eat at the best food markets in George Town, Penang

The capital of Penang island is awash in street art, festooned with British Raj–era buildings, and crammed with boutiques selling arts and crafts. But before hitting these George Town attractions, heed your grumbling stomach… The best things to do in Penang revolve around eating and drinking – and state capital George Town has the biggest banquet.

In a city rife with food markets, elegant cafes, and everything in between, the only dilemma is where to begin. Our dream menu features chicken curry at venerable Indian spot Hameediyah , slurping Hokkien mee (noodles) at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and following our nose to grilled satay skewers and spicy-sweet rojak salad at Anjung Gurney Night Market . Other must-try dishes are spicy, fishy Penang laksa, and char kway teow , rice noodles sizzled with huge prawns (some of the best are served at Kafe Heng Huat ).

Planning tip:  You'll want to save room for dessert (or two!). Gateaux are worth lingering over at China House , while glistening displays of kuih nyonya (colorful rice and coconut cakes) beg to be snapped up from the markets.

4. Snorkel or dive in the pristine Perhentian Islands

Culture, check. Food, check. Malaysia is also one of Asia's best honeymoon destinations, especially the Perhentian Islands , where gin-clear waters lap golden sand. 

But don't doze off in your sun lounger just yet. Pulau Perhentian is even more magical beneath the water. Snorkelers can spy on coral reefs within reach of the beach (try Teluk Pauh and Shark Point, both on the big island). Better yet, wriggle into a wetsuit and dive among green sea turtles, barracuda and colorful reef-dwellers like yellow boxfish. 

The Perhentians are a wonderfully calm (and comparatively cheap) place to take a PADI course before testing your skills among the local nurse sharks (they're harmless). More experienced divers can join excursions down to the MV Union Star . This sunken freighter is known as the "Sugar Wreck" for the cargo it transported before meeting its rusty end; today, the wreck swirls with stingrays and scorpionfish.

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. But experienced from the summit, Mt Kinabalu is even more heavenly. 

Your penance for this heavenly vantage point? A thigh-burning ascent, some 8.7km (5.4 miles) each way. But every phase of the journey (split across two days) opens up a new natural wonder. The rough steps and stony pathways propel you ever higher above the treeline, past lunar rockfaces, high-alpine grasslands, and tangled carpets of ferns, rhododendrons and bamboo. At Panalaban (3272m/10,735ft), you'll bed down in a hostel for the night… or at least for a few fitful hours because you'll be out of bed early to reach the spiky granite summit at sunrise. 

Planning tip:  March to August is dry season for climbing. Limited permits to climb are issued each day, and you have to climb with a guide.

6. Ride a trishaw around historic Melaka

Trishaws: bone-rattling, traffic-dodging, three-wheeled form of transport. To some, they're a joyride; to others, a menace. But in Melaka , trishaws are out of this world. 

This historic port city is home to the blingiest trishaws around, adorned with Hello Kitty neons, the Frozen logo, and lighting rigs that could almost guide lost ships to shore. Lavished in flowers, tinsel and knock-off logos, more than 300 ostentatious trishaws ply their trade in Melaka, some offering history tours.

Aboard a trishaw, you might trundle past the Sultanate Palace and the spiky silhouette of the replica Flor de la Mar . You can spin through Dutch Square , which is lined with pinkish buildings like Christ Church . And as the sun dips below the horizon, your trishaw will begin to twinkle with fairy lights, lanterns and neon signs – it's hard to resist snapping a selfie.

7. Take a hike through Taman Negara

Reality check: for all Malaysia's natural splendor, the country faces serious environmental challenges, like encroachment of palm plantations on forested land. These threats make pockets of unspoiled nature like Taman Negara even more precious.

Literally " National Park ," Taman Negara is 4343 sq km (1676 sq miles) of primeval, protected land crossing Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu states. Its 130 million-year-old rainforest is among the oldest in the world (pipped to the title by Australia's Daintree), and along its trails, you're enclosed by the deafening soundtrack of jungle life. Fairy-sized katydids whirr through the forest, macaques chatter in the branches, and hornbills clack their beaks from above. If you're lucky, a gaur, an Asian bison with a distinctive bowl cut, will lumber into view. If you're incredibly lucky, you'll see a glimpse of a tiger, elephant or ultra-rare Malayan peacock-pheasant. 

Planning tip:  Whatever your fortunes spotting wildlife, don't miss walking the 45m-high (148ft-high) canopy walkway, taking a firefly boat ride or joining an after-dark hike to see things that go bump (or squeak, or scuttle) in the night.

8. Witness a flight of bats at eerie Mulu Caves

The island of Borneo is an every day Eden, where rainforests and reefs teem with wildlife. Amid this natural abundance, it's challenging to zoom in on one particular spectacle, but Gunung Mulu still rises to the top. 

At this national park, toothy limestone pinnacles add drama to a landscape of 60 million-year-old rainforests, twisting streams and deep grottoes. The most momentous experience is seeing the skies blacken with bats pouring out of the mouth of Deer Cave . Up to three million bats hang around in these dank chambers, and their mid-air acrobatics are to flummox hawks waiting for a mammalian mouthful.

Planning tip:  Tours take you inside Deer Cave and amid the spiraling stalactites of nearby Lang Cave, before you step outside to watch the aerial spectacle from around 5pm.

9. Go off-grid on a private jungle island in Royal Belum State Park

What does solitude even mean in the era of smartphones? Find out by going cold turkey on a private island in Royal Belum State Park , way up north in Peninsular Malaysia's Belum-Temenggor Rainforest.

Taking the longboat to the resort, your vibrating phone will fall into a slumber. To replace the constant overstimulus, dive off the island jetty for a swim, sleep in an A-frame tent, and awake to watch for all 10 species of hornbills swooping overhead. You can take guided hikes through the jungle in search of whopping great rafflesia blooms, and watch out for tell-tale elephant footprints in the mud. 

10. Join a cooking class in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is a confluence of cuisines. There are thriving scenes for Malay, Peranakan, Indian and Chinese food, always with distinctly local and regional twists; try Penang laksa , Ipoh chicken beansprouts, and every variety of cendol (an icy, coconut milk refresher) you can find. Fading colonial influences, like Dutch, British and Portuguese, also lend their recipes to this steaming smorgasbord.

Some flavors will forever be a twinkle in the chef's eye, but you can take a few recipes home by joining a cooking class. Kuala Lumpur is an excellent place to go, offering myriad options where skilled chefs will guide you through recipes like prawn fritters, nasi lemak (coconut rice with all the trimmings) and famous beef rendang .

Planning tip:  LaZat Malaysian Home Cooking has been around since 2007, and offers a changing menu that spans classic rice noodle dish char kway teow , fragrant kapitan chicken and sago pudding. 

11. Dive with turtles at Sipadan Island

Malaysia boasts a few marine paradises, but Sipadan is uncommonly remote and wild. The island is an extinct volcanic cone where coral reefs flourish, and palm trees provide scant shade on bone-white beaches. These waters are a catwalk of superstars: head out on a dive and spot big-eye trevallies, hammerhead sharks and two species of turtle – green and hawksbill. They're so abundant that it's not unusual to see a dozen turtles on a single dive!

Planning tip:  The journey to Sipadan takes effort: after landing on Malaysian Borneo, you'll either connect to Tawau or bus onwards to Semporna , from where you can day trip to the island (or stay elsewhere on the archipelago; Sipadan itself doesn't allow overnight stays).

12. Look for bearded pigs in Bako National Park

Sarawak's teeming Bako National Park checks off much of the Bornean wildlife ticklist: dense jungle, mischievous monkeys, slinky water monitors and orchids peeping from the ground. More than 190 bird species flit, soar and chatter through Bako, the oldest national park in Sarawak.

So, what makes it distinctive? Firstly, the sea stacks that lend it a dramatic silhouette, sculpted by the action of water (admire them from Pandan Kecil beach). And secondly, the prospect of spotting bearded pigs, whose fuzzy bodies and shaggy snouts make for a gruff and adorable encounter. 

Planning tip:  Staying overnight is the best way to maximize chances of a sighting. Take a night walk with an experienced guide who will point the way. 

13. Meet magnificent apes in Sepilok, Borneo 

We share approximately 97% of our DNA with orangutans, so why not pay these long-lost relatives a visit? Make Sepilok your base: at the 43 sq km (17 sq mile)  Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre , you can watch shaggy apes swing into view. The center pairs young primates with older partners to school them in the ways of the jungle before release. Next, head to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary , less than half an hour's drive away. Listen for the thundering sound as they race across the wooden boardwalk at feeding time. Their squishy noses and pot bellies have a strange dignity… so like us humans! 

Add a third mammalian encounter by visiting Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre , which rescues members of Southeast Asia's smallest bear family. There are 45 of these honey-guzzling cuties on site.

14. Get a bird's eye view on Langkawi Island

Langkawi is a true holiday island, with blonde beaches and rugged jungles. The best way to experience its splendor? Get up high.

Ride the SkyCab up to Gunung Machinchang (713m/2339ft), where engineering marvel Langkawi Sky Bridge stands; or drive up to admire views from 881m (2890ft) Gunung Raya. Alternatively, zip-lining helps you feel the wind in your hair and gives you a shot of adrenaline as you fly above the geopark's canopy, startling a few hornbills along the way.

15. Marvel at a spectacular mosque in Kuala Kangsar

Malaysia is studded with magnificent mosques, from Mogul-era marvels to functional modern constructions, but one masjid steals the show for its sheer grandeur: Masjid Ubudiah in the rocky region of Perak. Designed by famed architect AB Hubback, the mosque's whopping gold domes and Italian marble are a visual feast. It's not the only showpiece in town, either: take a spin around Muzium Diraja Kuala Kangsar and the Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah for an extra dose of architectural opulence.  

This article was first published Feb 4, 2022 and updated Jan 22, 2024.

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Things to Do in Malaysia

Common Greetings

Currency in Malaysia

Scams to Avoid

Visiting Kuala Lumpur

Neighborhoods to Know

Best Hotels

Public Transportation Guide

Top Things to Do

Guide to Malaysian Street Food

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Eating at Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Malaysia

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

The Most Popular Places to Visit in Malaysia

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

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

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

Kuala Lumpur

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

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

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

The Perhentian Islands

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

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

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

Malaysian Borneo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taman Negara

Westend61 / Getty Images

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

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

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

Cameron Highlands

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

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

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

Tioman Island

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

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

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

simonlong / Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Islands in Southeast Asia

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

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

Your Trip to Malaysia: The Complete Guide

Taman Negara in Malaysia: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Where Is Kuala Lumpur?

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

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

Malaysia's Perhentian Islands: Pocket Paradise

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Langkawi, Malaysia Travel Guide

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

The Banana Pancake Trail

Important Tips for Malaysia's Perhentian Islands

12 Must-Visit Places In Klang Valley You Can Head To Besides The Shopping Mall

More adventure awaits you.

With the Christmas holidays inching closer, we know all too well that shopping malls will be super crowded with people. But neither do we feel like staying home. Don’t feel like doing the same activities of karaoke and shopping? We’ve compiled a list of 12 places in the Klang Valley that you could go during holiday seasons, or even just any ordinary weekends.

12 Attractions You Can Visit In The Klang Valley During The Holiday Season:

1. perdana botanical garden.

Better known by the public as Lake Gardens, this vast park is filled with luscious greenery and gorgeous flowers. Intricately built infrastructures like the grand pavilion, bamboo house and sunken garden spread out over the 220 acres land smack right in the heart of the city. Besides having free admissions to this place, this is your chance to escape the bustling metropolis and busy crowd without stepping foot out of the city.

Address:  Jalan Kebun Bunga,   Tasik Perdana ,  Kuala Lumpur 55100,  Malaysia

Operating hours: 7am – 8pm (Daily)

Nearest station: Muzium Negara MRT Station (15 mins walk)

2. Kwai Chai Hong 鬼仔巷

This hidden gem nestled within century-old shops and crowded streets was recently opened this year. As you step into the quaint little street, you’re immediately transported back into the 1960s. Be mesmerised by enchanting murals filled with hidden stories and highly hung Chinese lanterns, while you walk on the red wooden bridge. This glorious insta-worthy street is definitely worth visiting for a short trip down memory lane!

Address: Lorong Panggung, 50000 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.

Nearest station: Pasar Seni Lrt/Mrt

Operating hours: 9am – 12am (Daily)

Link(s): Website | Facebook

3. Farm In The City

Next off the list, is this super adorable petting zoo that’s merely a distance away from the city centre. This is your one chance to get up close and personal with tame and exotic animals by interacting with them. There’re 18 different stations in total, set foot on an adventure to uncover all of them. From big-eyed llamas to the world’s smallest species of horse – Falabella horse, it’s cuteness overload everywhere you go.

Photo: @nuraqilahisa._ (Instagram)

Tickets are priced at RM39 for adults and RM32 for children.

Address: Lot 40187-40188, Jalan Prima Tropika Barat, Bandar Putra Permai, Seri Kembangan, 43300 Malaysia.

Operating hours: 10am – 6pm (Weekdays), 9:30am – 6pm (Weekends & Public Holidays), Closed on Tuesdays

Contact: 03-8941 3099

Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram

4. Planetarium Negara

Other than that, many of you may not know that there’s actually a planetarium right in KL city itself! Yes, you got that right. This is a place where you can explore the infinite space and stars on land. Enjoy “out of this world” space shows at their huge space theater or ancient replicas at the space theme park. Best of all, it’s free admissions for all!

Address: 53, Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur.

Operating hours: 9am – 4:30pm (Tues – Sun), Closed on Mondays.

5. KL Forest Eco Park

What better way to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature than to visit one of Malaysia’s oldest permanent forest reserve. Located right beside KL Tower, KL Forest Eco Park offers all types of facilities at your disposal. Apart from being with nature, look out for a wooden gazebo overlooking the KL Tower, you’ll be taken away by the breathtaking view in front of you. Likewise, you can brave yourself by taking a stroll on the 200-metre high Canopy Walk!

Address: Lot 240, Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur.

Operating hours: 7am – 6pm (Daily)

6. Aquaria KLCC

Next off the list, is this top tourist attraction that most of us pass by everyday whenever we’re walking over to Pavilion from KLCC or vice versa. But many of us have yet to witness the magical underwater kingdom ourselves. Boasting over 5,000 freshwater and marine creatures, it’s a blue oceanic wonderland worth shedding a couple hours to explore. You never know, you might even see a couple friendly faces here from your favourite Disney movie.

Address: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Operating hours: 10am – 8pm (Daily)

Link(s): Website  | Facebook

7. District 21

Ever imagine yourself in a post-apocalyptic movie where you have to fend off enemies or even ZOMBIES? If your answer’s yes, then this is your turf! An indoor adventure theme park with 11 attractions of varying difficulties for you to conquer, you can’t help but to feel a little accomplished after all that. Rest assured, there’re plenty of child-friendly attractions here for active kids as well. So this is place is not only for the families but also for an adventurous group activity.

Address: AT6, IOI City Mall, IOI Resort City, 62502 Putrajaya.

Operating hours: 12pm – 8pm (Mon-Fri), 10am – 8pm (Sat & Sun)

Contact: 03-83288888

Link(s): Facebook  | Instagram

8. Batu Caves

These iconic steps at Batu Caves has been grazed by almost every Instagram accounts of international and local tourists. Ever since it got refurbished with new paint, Batu Caves has been deemed the top instagram spot to be at. But there’s beauty way beyond those multi-coloured 272 steps. Marvel at the remarkable limestone caves and pay your respects at Hindu temples with beautiful statues. However, a little reminder to beware of those cheeky little monkeys on your way up!

Address: Gombak, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor.

Nearest station: Batu Caves KTM station

9. Nasional Museum Tekstil (National Museum Of Textiles)

Besides the luscious greeneries that can surprisingly be found in the city centre, let’s not forget the rich cultural heritage that Malaysia has to offer as well. Residing in an old heritage building, the National Textile Museum offers visitors an in depth showcase of local textiles. Learn a thing or two about batik dying and weaving of traditional garments like Songket, Batik and Pua.

Address: 26, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur.

Operating hours: 9am – 6pm (Daily)

Link(s): Website  | Instagram

An iconic cinema, karaoke and backpackers’ lodge were all housed in one single building that unfortunately faced a blazing fire twice in its lifespan. However, new life was breathed into it and subsequently transformed into what is now known as RexKL – a creative space for everyone. Cafes, bars and indie shops has once again filled the space with opportunities to have a good time. Meanwhile, keep a lookout for events and exhibition that are regularly held here.

Address: 80, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur.

Operating hours: 10am – 11pm (Tue – Sun)

Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram 

11. ZhongShan Building

Next up, is another repurposed old building that has been converted into an arts and research space for the community – ZhongShan Building offers more than just that. You can enjoy a cuppa with friends or window shop a bit at the eccentric stores that carries art supplies, whimsical stationery and beautifully-made cards. Or be inspired by reading a book or two at their indie bookstores that has hidden “treasures” waiting for you to uncover.

Address: Jalan Kampung Attap, 80 – 84, Jalan Rotan, 50460 Kuala Lumpur.

Contact: 016-660 2585

Operating hours: Check out their FB page for operating hours of individual shops.

Link(s): Facebook | Instagram

12 . Hauntu

Lastly, as spooky as it may sound, this place is nothing like you’ve ever been to. The immersive horror experience is first of its kind in Malaysia, giving you thrills tingling down your back as you wander through the intricate maze and interact with actors. Bring your friends along and go through a chilling adventure together. However, if you’re brave enough, enter at your own risk…you never know there might be an additional “player” going along with you.

Entrance price is fixed at RM58 per person. Booking is required.

Address: 2-9, Level 2, The LINC KL, 360 Jalan Tun Razak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.

Operating hours: 3pm – 11pm (Weekdays), 11am – 11pm (Weekends)

Which attraction are you most excited to visit next?

So, that rounds up the top recommended places you have to visit next. We know we can never really get rid of the idea of heading to malls for a good time. But why not give a chance and explore these beautiful (and adventurous) places that we can be proud of. Either it’s a repurposed old building or a gigantic park in the city, you’re never too late to discover them all.

Also check out:  Baiwago Plus Cafe In Plaza Arkadia, Desa Park City Rolls Out New Lemon Desserts & Beverages

We would like to invite you to join our  New Private Community Group ! Here you are free to ask questions, share your love for food, and explore the Penang community! We will also regularly post about casual promos and latest findings.

Click on the button below and hunt good food with us today!

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3 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia Outside Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia has the harmony between three ancient civilizations in Asia. Every year, Malaysia attracts a large number of tourists thanks to the diverse culture. Visiting Malaysia, tourists not only visit and shop in the busy cities of Malaysia, visit the Independence Square, the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the National Mosque but also are fascinated by the unique cuisine of most countries (because Malaysian is likened to "Asia's culinary paradise"). So, if you are bored of visiting Kuala Lumpur over and over again, why not try these 3 best places outside of Kuala Lumpur. Let’s check it out!!!

1. Tioman - Malaysia's most beautiful and smallest island

Pulau Tioman - off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia - is one of Malaysia's most famous small islands. Acclaimed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world in the 1970s by TIME magazine, Tioman Island is famous for its sandy beaches, jungle, and ancient villages. It is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

About Tioman island

Tioman is the largest island on the east coast of Malaysia and known as the home of diving activities in Malaysia . About 56 km from Pahang Beach, Tioman is famous for many water sports activities. Coming here, visitors also have the opportunity to explore and see other mammals and birds in the wilderness of Tioman.

Guests can choose to stay on Tioman Island on the West Coast easily. Most Western tourists choose to stay at the popular Berjaya Tioman Golf & Spa. Tekek is the commercial and transportation center of Tioman. The town has two wharves and several duty-free shops.

Nightlife at Tioman Island

Some places to enjoy the nightlife at Tioman Island:

• Ari's Café, located in Tekek, is a reggae bar under the mountainside
• Meanwhile, Air Batang is a popular tourist destination for Tioman backpackers - where visitors experience the wild nature.
• Sunset Corner is located near Nazri's Place on the southern edge of this beach. It is a great place to enjoy the sunset, suitable for guests to sip wine and relax.
• Alternatively, you can visit the Hallo Café in the north of the pier which is located in front of the Nazri II.
• The small bay of Salang is full of accommodation, restaurants, tourists, and sellers.
•  The Four S Coffee Shop is the only coffee shop in the area that sells cheap beer.
• Santai Bistro is right next to the pier and this bar/restaurant is popular with rock music.

Shopping in Tioman Island

Shopping in the island is not a problem for tourists because the people are very friendly. The shopping options at Tioman are quite limited, mainly at Tekek, which sells cigarettes, chocolates, and alcohol, as well as a limited number of fashion boutiques, swimwear, and souvenirs. The traditional village of Kampung Paya has a small shop selling duty free goods but they are imported from the mainland to the island so the prices are high. So, it is a small tip that visitors should prepare as much food as possible from the mainland.

2. Cameron Plateau – an attractively natural destination for nature lovers

The farms and plantations create interesting sights for Cameron. It is the best places to visit in Malaysia for visitors who want to experience the holiday close to the wonderful nature.

About the Cameron Plateau

At an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, the Cameron Plateau - just 4 hours from the center of Kuala Lumpur - sits along a high mountain above the river valley. The hillside temperatures range from 22 ° C to 25 ° C during the day, and from 15 ° to 22 ° C at night, making it an ideal spot for hiking, camping and picnicking. The highland is named after William Cameron, a British government surveyor who discovered the area in 1885. The plateau has many agricultural farms and we guarantee that there is no better place in Malaysia so that visitors can enjoy the fresh and healthy products like that.

Highlights in Cameron Plateau

Boh Sungai Palas Heritage

Situated on the north hills of Brinchang, this tea plantation is a vast landscape with tea plantations, cafés, and visitor centers. When you're here, you can watch the educational videos about the real estate history as well as buy tea products from the on-site souvenir shops. Besides, do not miss the chance to enjoy some of the teas and admire the cool landscape when you look out to the tea plantation.

Opening hours: 9:00 a.m - 4:30 p.m, Tuesday to Sunday

Cactus Valley

Cameron Highlands is home to several cactus gardens found in the Tanah Rata and Tringkap areas. Cactus Valley with stairs planted with flowers, fruits, vegetables as well as cactus. In addition, to take a walk through the green space and see the world of cacti many species, you can also buy potted plants as souvenirs.

• Opening hours: 8 a.m – 6 p.m
• Address: Pekan Lama, Brinchang
• Phone: +605 491 5640

Cameron Butterfly Farm

There are two butterfly farms - Butterfly Garden and Butterfly Farm on the plateau. Both are home to a collection of tropical butterflies, including the famous Raja Brooke as well as many other famous insects.

• Opening hours: 8am - 6pm daily
• Address: Kea Farm, Brinchang
• Phone: +605 496 1364

Rose Garden of Mrs. Robertson

There are some flower nurseries along the main road from Ringlet to Kampung Raja. The Robertson Rose Garden is specialized in flower bouquets and it has a big tourism value because it covers a big area of the hilltop.

Orang Asli Village

Some of the unique and interesting asli villages are also the interesting features of Cameron Highlands. Here, visitors can experience and explore the everyday life of the native Malaysian. The villages are located along the road to the Highlands but there are also some villages hidden deep in the forest.

Time Tunnel Museum

As one of the most prominent attractions in the Cameron Highlands, this fun and educational local museum is the first museum in Malaysia. Describing the milestones of the plateau history, it displays over 1,000 artifacts, from photographs to traditional motorcycles.

• Address: Jalan Sungai Burung, 39100 Brinchang
• Phone: +6016 328 8438/+6013 524 7120

3. Genting Highlands - Las Vegas of Malaysia

Named Las Vegas of Malaysia, Genting Highlands is also known as the Entertainment City of this country.

About Genting Highlands

The Main Range - also known as the Banjaran Titiwangsa in Malaysia - is a granite mountain range forming the north-south spine of the Malaysian peninsula. The mountains of the range are over 6,000 feet and are home to the cool hill stations of the Cameron Plateau, the Fraser Plateau, and the Genting Plateau. Genting is recognized as the hillside station of Malaysia. This top resort of Kuala Lumpur is dubbed as Las Vegas of Malaysia with luxurious casinos, nightlife and hotels (for example, First World Hotel - listed as the world's largest hotel in 2006 by the Guinness Book of World Records). Known as the Entertainment City, this luxury resort town is especially popular with locals and weekend warriors from Singapore.

Highlights of the Genting Highlands

Temple in Chin Swee Cave

Situated on 28-acre forested land, Chin Swee Cave is located in the most beautiful spot in the Genting Highlands. This pagoda was built to worship Chin Swee, a famous religious character with the ability to call rain and dispelling evils. The central attraction of this temple is the black statue of Chin Swee located at the entrance.

Strawberry Farm

Known as the largest strawberry farm in Malaysia and the first resort in Genting Highlands, the Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm is a perfect way to spend the afternoon relaxing. The strawberry farm is located on the edge of the hill with a strawberry garden, a flower park as well as a strawberry-themed café on the farm.

• Opening hours: 8: 00-18: 15
• Address: No. 1, Lot 3707, Jalan Jati 2, Gohtong Jaya
• Phone: + 603 6100 1121

The Arena of Stars

A young & wild Asian wanderer who love traveling, writing and sharing his travel experience to audiences who are planning to Asia. To him, life is about traveling and his journey has just started."

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Best Time to Travel to Bangkok and Interesting Things to Discover

Cheapest Time to Travel To Thailand – The Country of Smiles!

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• Country and City

13 Ultimate Outdoor Adventures To Conquer In Malaysia

Cheng Sim  •  Feb 05, 2020

[Updated 29 June 2021]

Malaysia is more than just a country with super affordable weekend getaways , incredible nature retreats , and amazing exotic islands . If you want a rush of adrenaline, there are many adventurous things to do in Malaysia.

Paragliding, tandem skydiving, white water rafting - your name it and this country has it! While Malaysians are staying home during MCO (Movement Control Order), don't let it stop you from dreaming about crossing off these bucket-list adventures in Malaysia once it's safe to do so!

Disclaimer: As of June 2021, do note that all outdoor attractions and tour operators are temporarily closed during MCO. We recommend saving this article for your future adventures and support them once it's safe to travel again. 

1. Tandem skydive in Langkawi

Update : As of January 2021, Skydive Langkawi is temporarily closed until further notice

If there's one travel resolution to tick off from your bucket list, that would be tandem skydive in Langkawi . You can do so with Skydive Langkawi that's situated near Langkawi International Airport. Perfect for any adrenaline seeker, you can tandem skydive with an experienced instructor (rated by Australian Parachute Federation) from as high as 14,000 feet - and that's 9 times the height of KLCC, one of the tallest buildings in Malaysia! And they also have a female skydive instructor on board.

The entire duration takes around 3 hours - from the moment you arrive until you depart from the skydive centre. Skydive Langkawi offers two packages and it starts from RM1,650 per person. Since tandem skydive is a weather-oriented activity, it's best to allow half a day to complete your jump as it can be delayed by weather. For more details, check out our article on Skydive Langkawi !

Where to book this experience

• Skydive Langkawi ( Website | Facebook )

2. Stargazing in Kota Belud

For those who lived in the city long enough, a sky full of stars is hard to spot in Malaysia. That's because you've yet to visit Kota Belud and enjoy a stargazing experience in Lasau Podi . About 30 minutes drive from Kota Belud, your driving journey to Lasau Podi will be smooth one thanks to the good road condition, so rent a car if you wish!

Most local stargazers would drive to Lasau Podi when it's close to midnight where the area is in complete darkness. Some would also camp underneath the starry night. Do note that restrooms and accommodations are not available around this area, and you may need to rough it in nature.

For accommodation with facilities, head over to another stargazing spot named Tegudon Tourism Village, Kadamaian , a 30-minute drive from Kota Belud (or a 40-minute drive from Lasau Podi). Besides giving you another spot to witness the Milky Way, this tourism village provides facilities such as toilets, changing room and camping sites.

Where to book this experience: 

• Currently, there are no available stargazing tours in Lasau Podi. We recommend renting a car and driving to Lasau Podi ( refer to this Google Map ) for this experience.

3. White water rafting in Gopeng

Beyond the delicious Muslim-friendly food and stunning Insta-worthy spots , Perak is also one of the best places for white water rafting in Malaysia! Narrow your search to Gopeng, and you'll discover many local tours that'll bring adrenaline seekers closer to this exhilarating experience. White water rafting usually takes place along the Kampar River famous for its wild rapids and refreshing water.

You need to be physically fit to do white water rafting, but you don't need rafting experience to join this activity. The rapids at Kampar River are classified from Class I-III, which means the journey begins with small and pleasant waves before it escalates into gushing water and wave splashes along narrow river passages.

• River Bug Asia ( Website )
• MyRainforest Adventure ( Website )
• Wildcat Adventures Gopeng ( Facebook )

4. Food adventure in Penang

Mention Penang and the few things that come to mind are nasi kandar, char kuay teow, and cendol. Known as the street food capital of Malaysia, it comes to no surprise why locals would plan a food adventure in Penang. Start with our breakfast of champions, nasi lemak at Ali Nasi Lemak before moving on to something hearty like nasi kandar at Hameediyah Restaurant, Malay-style prawn noodles at Ayu Mee Udang or cow's tongue soup with roti benggali at Sup Hameed. For the full experience, eat your way through Penang with our list of halal eateries !

If you're on a cafe-hopping adventure instead, head over to these Muslim-friendly cafes in Penang . You can savour herbal lemuni rice at Jawi House Cafe Gallery, pandan creme caramel at Areca Cafe or caramelised Banana Bakar at Lagenda Cafe. Each visit promises different surprises for your palate and that's definitely an adventure for a true Malaysian foodie.

5. Hike Mulu Pinnacles

You would need 3 days 2 nights to hike Mulu Pinnacles , but challenging yourself through the strenuous climb and challenging trails will pay off for those who endured it all. Situated in Mulu National Park, one of Malaysia's protected virgin rainforests, Mulu Pinnacles should be your next bucket list after you've conquered Mount Kinabalu.

When you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a view of razor-sharp limestones that overlooks the lush greenery. It requires a great level of fitness, and we recommend first-time hikers to do some training before taking on this tough climb. To make the most of your trip to Mulu National Park, you can explore the show caves, do adventure caving and venture on some guided forest walks in one of Sarawak's famous natural attraction.

• Mulu National Park ( Website )
• Amazing Borneo Tours ( Website )

6. Scuba diving in Mabul Island

Besides the islands of Perhentian and Sipadan, your bucket list would be incomplete without scuba diving in Mabul Island . Just off Semporna in Sabah, Mabul Island is known for its rich diversity of marine life, and scuba divers and underwater photographers have been to known to visit this paradise often. While this island is a popular diving spot all year round, the best months for scuba diving are April to December and July to August.

Be in awe by the vortexes of barracudas, herds of bump head parrotfish, turtles feeding all around and thousands of jackfish when you scuba dive. When you're here, don't miss a chance to meet the Sea Gypsies, also known as the Bajau Laut community, who lives on boathouses or huts built on stilts. Many of them spend their days in the water or selling their catch such as live seafood (crabs, lobsters, mussels or fish) on wooden boats to tourists visiting.

7. Paragliding at Bukit Jugra

Paragliding at Bukit Jugra is one of many outdoor adventures you should do in Malaysia. Here's a fun fact: Jugra was the royal capital of Selangor in the late 1800s before the baton is passed to Klang, the Malaysian state's current royal capital.

Besides hiking, the best way to appreciate the Jugra landscape is by paragliding across the sky. Just make your way to the base of Bukit Jugra lighthouse and you'll find the Malaysia Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association. Come between March and September when the wind conditions are at its best and the 15-minute paragliding experience costs approximately RM200 per person.

• Malaysia Paragliding Hang-Gliding Association - MPHA ( Facebook )

8. Canopy walk at Taman Negara

Walk on the canopy skywalk at Taman Negara to explore with one of the world's oldest rainforests. Situated in Pahang, this 130-million-year-old virgin rainforest is one of Malaysia's ecotourism gems and it'll be a miss not to experience it up close. Anyone departing from Kuala Lumpur will arrive at this rainforest within 2-3 hours and from there, your real adventure begins!

The canopy skywalk also happens to be the world's longest canopy walkway, so you'll get an amazing view of the surrounding tropical rainforest. Hanging at 40 meters above the ground, this suspension bridge is over 500 meters long, and you can only walk on the bridge four people at a time. This canopy skywalk is supervised by the national park's wildlife department, so you'll be in good hands!

#HHWT Tip : Inspired to plan a trip? Check out this amazing 3D2N Muslim-friendly itinerary to Taman Negara !

• Taman Negara Asia ( Website )
• Mutiara Taman Negara ( Website )

9. Rock climbing at Batu Caves

While many worshippers frequent Batu Caves during the Hindu festival of Thaipusam, the locals and tourists would come here to admire the towering golden statue of Lord Murugan and the rainbow-hued steps (there are 272 steps to climb!). Behind Batu Caves, however, lies an adventure spot that's perfect for rock climbing, abseiling, zip-lining and more!

Since rock climbing at Batu Caves is a must-try, Gua Damai Extreme Park offers a chance for adventure seekers to explore the different possible routes to reach the top. Their rock climbing package is good for beginners and families with children. You'll be given the necessary climbing gears, from safety harness to climbing shoes, before you start. Once you're ready to go, you have 3 hours to venture several climbing routes such as Damai Wall for beginners, Nyamuk Wall for the longest route, and more!

• Gua Damai Extreme Park ( Website )

10. Bungee jump at Sunway Lagoon

If you want to scream your lungs out, consider a thrilling Bungy Jump at Sunway Lagoon Extreme Park . Situated in the theme park itself, you will need to buy a Sunway Lagoon Pass before heading over to the Extreme Park counter to pay for your jump. Then, make your way to the top of the bridge where your jumping site will be.

Jumping off from as high as 22 meters, you'll be given a safety briefing and harness before you make your five-second jump. At the end of your experience, you'll get a certificate of completion. Since Extreme Park is a paradise for thrillseekers, there are also other ways to get your dose of adrenaline including racing through the Go Kart circuit, strap on Asia's highest slingshot ride at G-Force X and practice your aim in a round of paintball. You can read more about Bungy Jump at Sunway Lagoon here !

• Sunway Lagoon Extreme Park ( Website )

11. Ziplining at Gaya Island

Update : Starting January 2021, Coral Flyer zipline will only be open on weekends

Ziplining from Gaya Island to Sapi Island is one of the best ways to experience the scenic sight of these paradises in Sabah. Fuelled with an adrenaline rush, this 235-meter-long attraction is the world's longest island zipline and will take you on a journey of intense height and speed. Some say that you will zipline at the speed of 55KM per hour!

Similar to most outdoor activities, you'll be given a safety briefing and harness before you're set to go. While there's no age limit, you need to weigh between a minimum weight of 40kg and a maximum weight of 120kg. Small kids can also do a tandem zipline with their parents, so don't worry!

As you zipline 45 meters above the ground, don't close your eyes or you'll miss the beautiful waters down below. Once completed, you can head back to your starting point at Gaya Island via a free transfer. For tickets, you can buy them at Sapi Island Jetty or book in advance by contacting Coral Flyer at [email protected] .

• Coral Flyer ( Website | Facebook | Instagram )

12. ATV ride in Selangor

Situated in Kampung Kemensah, Selangor, prepare yourself for a thrilling ride at ATV Adventure Park ! Known as one of the largest ATV adventure parks in Malaysia, get ready to blaze through various jungle trails and terrains on a roaring ATV. Before your adventure begins, there are various packages you can choose from, which leads to different destinations ranging from Sofea Jane waterfall to Bukit Tabur.

After you've completed the safety briefing, you can explore different jungle trails with your helmets on! No matter which trails you choose, you can expect rough terrains, bumpy hills, and unexpected slopes between the shady tall trees. Since excessive speeding is not allowed, just take your time and enjoy your ride. You can read more about ATV Adventure Park here !

• ATV Adventure Park ( Website | Facebook )

13. Climb Mount Kinabalu

Update : As of January 2021, all climbing tours at Mount Kinabalu are temporarily suspended due to the recent landslide and road collapses due to heavy rain.

Ask any Malaysian and they'll say that our bucket list would be incomplete without climbing Mount Kinabalu . Situated within Kinabalu Park, which is also a World Heritage Site, journeying to the top of Malaysia's highest mountain is a challenge that's worth saying yes to.

Every day, the Park only issues 185 climb permits to Sabahans, Malaysians, and international tourists - and that's why hikers would book their slots as early as six months to one year before their trip. Standing tall at 4,095 meters, the trails are built with wooden staircases and rock steps but along the way, hikers would need to their limits when coming across large boulders and slippery routes.

#HHWT Tip : Due to safety reasons, it's best to book your climb through licensed tour operators. Many websites recommended Amazing Borneo Tours as this agency is supported by Sabah Tourism Board.

• Mount Kinabalu ( Website )

If you're ready to experience the best adventures in Malaysia, there's no better time to plan a trip than now! Whether you're going tandem skydiving in Langkawi or bungee jumping at Sunway Lagoon Extreme Park, many outdoor adventures await in Malaysia.

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The Best Places to Retire Overseas Where English Is Spoken

Text Callout : Key Takeaways – The Best Places to Retire Overseas Where English Is Spoken

Warm weather, beautiful beaches and cosmopolitan culture lure many retirees overseas for their golden years. While some enjoy exploring far-off locations and don’t mind navigating language barriers, others may feel more comfortable knowing they can easily communicate with those around them.

“It's natural for people to be intimidated by the prospect of learning another language – particularly later in life,” says Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of International Living, a source for guidance on the ways to live, work, retire, travel and invest overseas. She adds that it’s usually not necessary to be 100% fluent in another language.

That’s been the experience of retiree Norm Bour who travels the world with his wife and documents their adventures on the website Travel Younger. “We’ve visited 43 countries since we began our travel in 2019, and truly, except for an occasional language barrier at restaurants or getting directions, we get by with no other language skills,” Bour said in an email.

Still, if you want to live in a country where English is widely spoken, you have plenty of choices. Obvious destinations such as the U.K., Australia and Canada can be expensive or make it difficult to obtain residency. Instead, consider retiring to one of these places, listed in alphabetical order, where English is spoken.

Adequacy decisions

How the EU determines if a non-EU country has an adequate level of data protection.

The European Commission has the power to determine, on the basis of article 45 of Regulation (EU) 2016/679  whether a country outside the EU offers an adequate level of data protection.

The adoption of an adequacy decision involves:

• a proposal from the European Commission;
• an opinion of the European Data Protection Board;
• an approval from representatives of EU countries;
• the adoption of the decision by the European Commission.

At any time, the European Parliament and the Council may request the European Commission to maintain, amend or withdraw the adequacy decision on the grounds that its act exceeds the implementing powers provided for in the regulation.

The effect of such a decision is that personal data can flow from the EU (and Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland) to that third country without any further safeguard being necessary. In others words, transfers to the country in question will be assimilated to intra-EU transmissions of data.

The European Commission has so far recognised Andorra , Argentina , Canada (commercial organisations), Faroe Islands , Guernsey , Israel , Isle of Man , Japan , Jersey , New Zealand ,  Republic of Korea ,  Switzerland  , the United Kingdom under the GDPR  and the LED , the United States (commercial organisations participating in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework)  and  Uruguay  as providing adequate protection.

With the exception of the United Kingdom, these adequacy decisions do not cover data exchanges in the law enforcement sector which are governed by the Law Enforcement Directive (Article 36 of  Directive (EU) 2016/680 ).

The Commission is required to periodically review the adequacy decisions adopted under the GDPR and its predecessor, Directive 95/46/EC, and to report its findings to the European Parliament and the Council. In line with this obligation, the Commission published its Report on the first periodic review of the adequacy decision for Japan on 4 April 2023. On 15 January 2024 the Commission published its Report on the first review of the functioning of the eleven adequacy decisions adopted pursuant to Directive 95/46/EC .

High-level meeting on International Data Flows

On 4 March 2024, the Commission hosted the first ever high-level meeting on safe data flows, gathering responsible Ministers and heads of the data protection authorities of 15 countries and territories for which the EU has adopted an adequacy decision as well as the Chair of the European Data Protection Board. Participants discussed ways to leverage this network of like-minded partners to maximise the benefits of safe and free data flows and explored avenues for closer cooperation on enforcement of data protection rules.

Adequacy decisions latest

• 21 June 2024
• 4 March 2024
• 15 January 2024
• 11 April 2023
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• français (238.84 KB - PDF) Download

Related links

Press release - 19 February 2021

Press release - 5 September 2018

Press Statement - 20 November 2017

Joint Declaration - 6 July 2017

Joint Statement - 4 July 2017

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