Malaysia is most famous for its natural attractions, but there are also many wonderful places waiting for those seeking relaxation. Let’s look at 11 of these locations!
On the peninsula, it borders Thailand in the north and Singapore in the south. On Borneo island, it borders Indonesian provinces in the south and encircles the independent state of Brunei in the northwest.
Table of Contents
Best places in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s capital has developed into one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic metropolises.
The city’s population consists of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other minorities, resulting in a vibrant cultural mix. This is reflected in the city’s festivals, religious sites, and gastronomy. The Jamek Mosque and Sri Mahamariamman Temple are symbols of religious diversity.
Its most famous attraction is the Petronas Twin Towers. The 452-meter-tall towers are the city’s symbols, providing an impressive sight when illuminated. The Batu Caves are one of the most well-known Hindu sanctuaries. Here stands the massive golden statue of Murugan, the god of war.
I have been here twice and it is one of my favourite cities. I will definitely return here in the future!
Langkawi
One of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations is located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai border.
The archipelago consists of 99 islands, with Pulau Langkawi being the largest and main island. It’s famous for its rich natural treasures, beautiful beaches, and UNESCO-recognized geopark.
One of its most famous attractions is the Langkawi Sky Bridge. This 125-meter-long curved pedestrian bridge offers stunning views of the mountains and the Andaman Sea. The Kilim Geoforest Park is made special by its mangrove forests, limestone formations, and rich wildlife.
Gunung Mulu National Park
This conservation area in Borneo is famous for its limestone caves, impressive underground systems, and biodiversity.
The Sarawak Chamber is one of the world’s largest underground chambers, distinguished by its size (600m long, 415m wide, 80m high). The Deer Cave is a huge cave, famous for its bat colony and spectacular in the evenings. Also notable is the Clearwater Cave, one of the longest explored cave systems, where crystal-clear water flows.
The park has one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, home to more than 3,500 plant species and numerous mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Penang
The country’s gastronomic center offers a fascinating combination of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
The island’s capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is full of historic buildings like the Pinang Peranakan Mansion and the Cheong Fatt Tze Blue House, as well as world-famous street art.
Famous dishes include Char Kway Teow (stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp and spices), Penang Laksa (a sour and spicy fish soup), and Hokkien Mee (rich meat broth-based noodle soup with shrimp and pork).
Taman Negara National Park
One of Malaysia’s most famous and oldest conservation areas preserves a pristine rainforest more than 130 million years old.
Here you’ll find one of the world’s longest canopy walkways, the Canopy Walkway. The park’s highest mountain, Gunung Tahan, is considered the country’s greatest hiking challenge. The Kenyir River is ideal for boating, fishing, and jungle exploration.
The park’s vast ecosystem is home to rare and endangered animals such as Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, sun bears, gibbons, and various bird species like the hornbill.
Kuching
The capital of Sarawak state on Borneo island is one of the most charming cities in Southeast Asia.
The name means „cat” in Malay, and the city is famous for its cat theme, which appears in statues and souvenirs. A museum was also created for this: the Kuching Cat Museum reflects the city’s dedication to cats.
Kuching’s rich cultural heritage is the result of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities living together. Local festivals, such as Gawai Dayak, represent this tradition.
Cameron Highlands
One of Malaysia’s most popular mountain destinations, known for its fresh air, beautiful landscapes, and cool climate.
It’s about 3-4 hours by car from Kuala Lumpur. The journey is made enjoyable by scenic mountains and jungle-covered landscapes. The region is an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and fresh air.
It’s famous for its extensive tea plantations, such as BOH Tea Garden, where visitors can learn about the tea-growing process and enjoy scenic views while having a cup of fresh tea. Besides the plantations, the region features beautiful flower gardens like Rose Valley and Lavender Garden.
Melaka
One of Malaysia’s most important historical cities is located in the southwest of the country, on the shores of the Malacca Strait.
In the 15th century, it was the center of a powerful Malay sultanate that served as a trading hub between different regions of Asia. Subsequently, it was under Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial rule, all of which left their mark on the city’s architecture and cultural heritage.
The architectural diversity is best shown by these: A Famosa fortress remains of the fort built by the Portuguese; the Stadthuys, the town hall built during Dutch colonial times, which is now a historical museum; Jonker Street is the heart of the city’s Chinese quarter, famous for its night market, antiques, and local food.
Tioman Island
One of the most beautiful Malaysian islands is famous for its lush jungle and crystal-clear waters.
It boasts numerous wonderful beaches, such as Salang Beach, Juara Beach, and ABC Beach, which are perfect locations for relaxation and water sports. The coral reefs around the island are also popular spots for snorkeling and diving.
Most of the island is a nature reserve where you can encounter special animals like monkeys, giant lizards, and exotic birds.
Mount Kinabalu
Malaysia’s highest peak and one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic natural attractions.
The 4,095-meter-high mountain is located in Sabah state on Borneo island and is the central element of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kinabalu National Park. The indigenous Kadazan-Dusun people revere it as a sacred place, believed to be the dwelling place of ancestral spirits.
Most hikers choose the Timpohon trail for the summit attempt, which features well-built stairs, rest areas, and shelters. The trek usually takes two days.
The park boasts one of the world’s richest ecosystems. It contains more than 5,000 plant species, including rare orchids and the giant Rafflesia flower. The animals living here include the Bornean pygmy elephant, orangutan, and numerous endemic bird species.
LEGOLAND Malaysia
The country’s first international theme park and the first LEGOLAND park in Asia. Located in Johor Bahru, close to the Singapore border.
More than 70 interactive attractions, roller coasters and LEGO-themed games await visitors. MINILAND features miniature replicas of famous Asian landmarks made from Lego building blocks, such as the Petronas Towers, Angkor Wat and the Taj Mahal. The park also includes a water park.
