Travelling to Malaysia is indeed like travelling true Asia. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit this ethereal country then this is probably the right to do so. Since summers are already knocking our doors, you’d want to spend your summer vacation at a place that gives you adventure, action, fun and relaxation all at the same time. Malaysia is a place where the adventure never ceases to stop. There are ample of attractions waiting to be explored. Do you want to know where you should kick-start your Malaysia journey from? Here are the best places to visit in Malaysia that are bound to stop your heart with its raw natural beauty.
Places to Visit in East Malaysia
If your love for adventure and action knows no bound, then east Malaysia is the region you should be exploring first when stepping onto the soil of Malaysia. Loaded with the vast expanses of rainforests, mist-capped mountains, and UNESCO world heritage sites, the eastern part of Malaysia gives you a panoramic view of untouched wilderness and introduces you to the age-old customs and rituals practiced by the local ethnic groups.
Sabah Island
Home to pristine white sand beaches and green palm trees, Sabah is the ideal destination for eco-adventures. This stunning tropical island is popular for its iconic Mt. Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia and Sipadan which is the ultimate paradise for divers. If you seek a place where you get to indulge in thrilling adventures involving diving, cruising, mountain climbing, white-water rafting, snorkeling, caving etc, Sabah is the place to be. Here are places worth considering when exploring the crevices of Sabah:
- Poring Hot Spring: After visiting Mt. Kinabalu, make sure to take a trip to the poring hot springs to relax and soothe away your aching muscles. Don’t forget to visit the butterfly farm, tropical garden and rafflesia site when done bathing in the hot spring.
- Crocker Range Park: If you’re into jungle-hikes and excursions, Crocker Range Park is where you should be heading next. Spend a day camping and enjoying with friends amidst the greenery.
- Sepilok Forest Reserve: Do you want to catch mischievous yet adorable orangutans play in their natural habitat? Visit Sepilok forest reserve and learn the importance of conserving wildlife.
- Turtle Island Park: Get a glimpse of rare and endangered turtles from the Green and Hawksbill species in Turtle Island Park, a must-visit place in Malaysia.
- Other places worth touring: Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Danum Valley Conservation Area, Tea Garden, Mari Mari Cultural Village, Teck Guan Cocoa Village and Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.
Sarawak
Occupying the southwestern ridge of Borneo jungles, Sarawak is a mystical place with natural cave formations, exotic flora and fauna and numerous protected wildlife park. Home to the vast number of hornbills, the place is also known as ‘the land of the hornbills’. From exploring the vivid beauty of Mulu National Park to walking through Niah’s great cave, Sarawak will amaze you at every step you take. Remember to tour these places when visiting Sarawak in Malaysia:
- Bako National Park: Capture the exotic fauna in the dense rainforests of Bako on your camera.
- Kuching Waterfront: Walk the trails of Kuching and shop some souvenirs from this fascinating Malayasian trip.
- Semenggoh Nature Reserve: A popular rehabilitation centre for injured, orphaned and illegally-kept orangutans that shouldn’t be missed no matter what. Observing them alone soothes your mind.
- Sarawak Cultural Village (Damai): Understand the lifestyle and traditional dwellings of major ethnic groups and watch beguiling cultural performance.
Labuan
The island of Labuan faces the controversial South China Sea is Malaysia’s only deep water anchorage. Popularly known as the ‘pearl of Borneo’, Labuan is an ideal place to spend summer vacations in Malaysia. Here are places that must be visited while exploring the land:
- World War II Memorial: Pay a tribute to the heroes of the Great War who gave their lives for a better future.
- Marine Park: Go wreck dive at American, Australian, Blue Water and Cement Wrecks, snorkel your way to colorful reefs and swim in the crystal clear waters.
Places to Visit in Southern Malaysia
Southern Malaysia is brimmed with vibrant culture, historical relics, pristine islands, beaches, and rainforests. The glory of city of Melaka with 600 years of long history can be reflected in its buildings, cuisines and diverse cultural heritage. Here are the colorful places to see in this region:
Negeri Sembilan
Renowned for its unique Minangkabau culture, Negeri Sembilan is a cradle of ancient traditions and a perfect place to spend laid-back vacations in Malaysia. Find time to explore these places and you’ll never regret visiting it:
- Port Dickson: Soak vitamin D in the sun-kissed beach of Port Dickson. There are plenty of adventure sports to spend a memorable time such as- parasailing, canoeing, yachting and speed boat rides.
- The Royal Museum of Seri Menati: Witness the creativity of ancient craftsmen in this architectural wonder.
- Wet World Pedas Hot Springs: Float around in the man-made canal and wading pools, enjoy private bathtubs, the experiences you’ll get at this place will leave a footprint in your heart.
Melaka
Melaka is a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site with old world charm of century-old buildings. It is an ideal place for you if you wish to experience country-side vibe with fruit farms, nature parks and cultural parks. Don’t miss a chance to explore Jonker Street, Melaka Sultanate Palace, Minim Malaysia and ASEAN Cultural Park, Maritime Museum and River Cruise for unbelievable travel experiences.
Places to Visit in Northern Malaysia
Northern Malaysia is indeed the most beautiful region to enjoy summer vacations. The region has got rainforests, caves, temples, museums, theme parks, historic sites, islands and beaches that will simply cast its spell on you and leave you enchanted. Here are places worth travelling on a Malaysia tour:
Perak
Thriving virgin rainforests, ancient cave temples and mount-watering cuisine are what this place is reckoned with. Given below are some places you’d be interested in visiting:
- Pulau Pangkor: A tropical island with turquoise water ideal for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, diving and fishing. Don’t miss savoring delicious seafood and snacks when on the beach.
- Royal Belum: A virgin rainforest with abundant flora and fauna that will simply take your breath away.
- Felda Residence Hot Springs: Known to cure bodily ailments, Felda Hot Springs is a place you must visit to cure yourself of skin-related problems.
- Gaharu Tea Valley: Buy yourself some time to visit Gaharu Tea Valley whose tea is known to possess healing properties.
Penang
Penang is a place where east meets west. From elegant colonial buildings to modern skyscrapers, the city boasts of amalgamated culture, traditions and beliefs. Here are some tourist worthy places you’d not want to miss when travelling to Malaysia:
- George Town: UNESCO world heritage site, this town is famous for its unique historical marvels and stunning architecture that cannot be found elsewhere.
- Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion: A traditional Chinese courtyard house with exquisite view of gardens and courtyard.
- Penang National Park: Go jungle trekking, birdwatching, fishing and camping in the park and unleash the nature lover inside you.
- Other places to visit: War Museum, Tropical Fruit Farm, Penang Hill and Khoo Konsi.
Places to Visit in Central Malaysia
Central Malaysia is bustling with vibrant towns, cities and towering buildings that enhance the landscape of Malaysia’s central region. This region is equipped with the state-of-the-art infrastructure and top-notch facilities that make tourists go ga-ga over it. Given below are some places you must visit when in the heart of Malaysia:
Kuala Lumpur
The dynamic city of Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of culture and races where millions of people live in harmony with each other. The home of ‘Petronas Twin Towers’, Kuala Lumpur is a city that won’t let you get bored not even for a minute. Here are the places you mustn’t miss when travelling to Malaysia:
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building: This Neo-Saracenic styled architecture marvel is a welcoming change amidst the high-rise city skyline.
- Istana Negara: Visit the majestic edifice and don’t miss snapping a picture or two.
- Perdana Botanical Garden: Walk down the trail to hibiscus and orchid gardens and view the collection of award-winning sculptures at ASEAN Sculpture Garden.
- Pasar Seni: Shop fine crafts, ornaments and accessories in one of the city’s prominent heritage buildings.
- China Town: Also known as ‘Petaling Street’, china town is the most-happening area in the city with stretch of shops, restaurants and hawker stalls.
Selangor
For a holiday packed with unlimited fun, entertainment and adventure, Selangor is the only place you should be travelling when in Malaysia. From watching fireflies to have a terrific time at the theme parks, there is nothing that will make you want to leave the place anytime soon. Exploring these places in Selangor is a sure thing to do:
- Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque: Visit the most stunning structures in the country. The blue mosque with its captivating architecture and intricate decorations pulls tourists from across the globe.
- Frim: Step into a natural enclave with tropical fauna and flora, go on hiking with friends, there’s so much to do at Frim.
- Batu Caves: Experience mystical vibe of Batu Caves where Lord Muruga is worshipped with full zest.
- Zoo Negara: Spend a day with animals in Zoo Negara and enjoy the animal shows and tram rides.