Malaysian city at night illuminated by lights

Malaysia

Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Malaysia

Malaysia, a country of cultural diversity and natural beauty, captivates with its bustling cities, pristine islands, and vibrant cuisine. From the modern skyline of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a blend of tradition and modernity. Explore ancient temples, savour delicious street food, and experience the warmth of Malaysian hospitality. The country’s lush rainforests, stunning highlands, and multicultural heritage make it a top destination for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Malaysia’s unique charm ensures an unforgettable travel experience.

When to visit

Temp Range

Currency

Min Budget

Apr – Feb

25 – 32°C
77 – 90°F

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

$25 – 35/day

  1. Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Malaysia
    1. Top Attractions
    2. Map
    3. Transport
    4. Budget
    5. Seasonality and Weather
    6. Must Try Dishes
    7. Language
    8. Top Cities in Malaysia
    9. Nearby Destinations
    10. Useful Pages

Top Attractions

See below for a selection of the top attractions in Malaysia, review the map to see where these are located to help plan your trip.

Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers are an iconic symbol of Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia, standing at 452 meters tall. Visitors can explore the Skybridge on the 41st floor and the observation deck on the 86th floor for stunning city views. The towers house the Suria KLCC shopping mall, a concert hall, and various restaurants, offering a comprehensive experience of modern Malaysia.

Access from – Kuala Lumpur

Batu Caves

Batu Caves, located just outside Kuala Lumpur, is a series of limestone caves and temples, with the main attraction being the Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. Visitors climb 272 colourful steps to reach the Temple Cave, adorned with statues and murals. The site is also famous for the annual Thaipusam festival, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.

Access from – Kuala Lumpur

Georgetown

Georgetown, the capital of Penang, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Visitors can explore historic buildings, such as the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Khoo Kongsi clan house, enjoy diverse street food, and wander through markets and museums. Georgetown offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions.

Langkawi Sky Bridge

The Langkawi Sky Bridge is a remarkable curved pedestrian bridge located at the peak of Gunung Mat Cincang on Langkawi Island. Suspended 700 meters above sea level, it offers breath-taking views of the surrounding rainforest and the Andaman Sea. Visitors reach the bridge via a cable car ride, adding an adventurous element to this unique experience.

Access from – Langkawi

Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park, one of the world’s oldest rainforests, offers an unparalleled nature experience in Malaysia. Spanning across Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu, the park is home to diverse wildlife, lush jungles, and unique ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy canopy walks, jungle trekking, river cruises, and night safaris, providing a deep immersion into the tropical rainforest’s natural beauty.

Access from – Kuala Tahan

Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is a picturesque hill station known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and lush greenery. Visitors can tour the expansive tea estates, like the Boh Tea Plantation, explore strawberry farms, and visit vibrant flower nurseries. The area also offers scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and a glimpse into the region’s colonial heritage, making it a refreshing retreat from the tropical heat.

Access from – Tanah Rata

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is one of the world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviaries, home to over 3,000 birds from more than 200 species. Located in the serene Lake Gardens, visitors can walk through various aviary zones, witness bird feeding sessions, and enjoy educational shows. The park’s naturalistic habitats offer a unique opportunity to observe birds in an environment that closely resembles their natural surroundings.

Access from – Kuala Lumpur

Sepang International Circuit

Sepang International Circuit is Malaysia’s premier motorsport venue, famous for hosting the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix and MotoGP. Located near Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the circuit features state-of-the-art facilities and challenging tracks. Visitors can attend thrilling races, participate in guided tours, and experience high-speed driving experiences, making it a must-visit destination for motorsport enthusiasts.

Access from – Sepang

Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands, located off the coast of Terengganu, are renowned for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Ideal for snorkelling, diving, and beach relaxation, the islands offer a laid-back atmosphere with lush jungles, coral reefs, and rustic accommodations. Visitors can explore Long Beach, Turtle Bay, and enjoy various water sports amidst a tropical paradise.

Access from – Kuala Besut

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a bustling coastal city known for its vibrant markets, cultural heritage, and proximity to natural attractions. Visitors can climb Mount Kinabalu, explore Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village. The city also offers beautiful sunsets at Tanjung Aru Beach and a lively food scene with local delicacies.

Tioman Island

Pulau Tioman, an island off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is famed for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. Ideal for diving, snorkelling, and jungle trekking, the island offers attractions like Juara Beach, Mukut Waterfall, and the Dragon Horns. Tioman’s relaxed atmosphere, coral reefs, and vibrant underwater world make it a sought-after destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Access from – Mersing

Sarawak Cultural Village

The Sarawak Cultural Village, located near Kuching, is a living museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak’s indigenous tribes. Visitors can explore traditional longhouses, watch cultural performances, and participate in craft-making workshops. The village provides an immersive experience of Borneo’s diverse ethnic cultures, featuring authentic architecture, music, and dance, offering a comprehensive insight into the region’s traditions.

Access from – Kuching

Map

See map of Malaysia to review top attractions. For the best experience save locally to open with google maps/share with your friends to help plan your next adventure! Some locations are hidden behind others, click map to reveal full details:

Transport

The extensive bus network connects major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, offering affordable and reliable intercity travel. Domestic flights, connect Peninsular Malaysia with East Malaysia and islands like Langkawi and Borneo. Ferries are essential for reaching islands like Langkawi, Penang, and the Perhentian Islands, with regular services from main ports ensuring easy access to these popular destinations. Taxis are prevalent in cities and tourist areas; using Grab, a popular ride-hailing app, offers convenient alternatives with upfront pricing. Overall, Malaysia’s transport infrastructure supports seamless travel between urban centres, coastal resorts, and island destinations.

Budget

Traveling in Malaysia varies; budget travellers spend $25-$35 per day on hostels and local food; mid-range travellers budget $50-$70 for hotels and dining out; luxury travellers may spend $180+ daily on upscale accommodations, fine dining, and private tours. Costs are generally lower compared to many Western destinations.

Seasonality and Weather

Malaysia has a tropical climate with consistent temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25–35°C (77–95°F). The west coast, including Kuala Lumpur and Penang, experiences more rainfall from April to October. The east coast, such as the Perhentian Islands and Tioman, is wetter from November to February and sees more monsoonal rain. Borneo, including Sabah and Sarawak, also has significant rainfall. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons: November to February for the west coast and highlands, and April to October for the east coast and Borneo, providing optimal weather for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

Must Try Dishes

Nasi Lemak
Roti Canai
Laksa

Language

The main language spoken is Malay. Below are some key phrases (phonetic translation) to get you started. A big smile and a few words can get you a long way!

Top Cities in Malaysia

Nearby Destinations

Useful Pages

Image Attributions
ImageAuthorLink
Tioman IslandJorge CancelaJorge CancelaCC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sarawak PagodaThomas QuineThomas QuineCC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Thank you to the authors for allowing their works to be used
↑ Top