The national slogan for tourism in Malaysia is ‘Malaysia truly Asia’, and it is the most accurate slogan for it. You can find a million things to do in Malaysia, but the most important thing is that you get to experience true Asia.
Malaysia offers an immersive experience in Asian culture, traditions, and cuisines, in addition to some of the most stunning scenery on the continent.
No matter what your preferences on vacation may be, you will absolutely love Malaysia. If you like getting to know local cultures, heritages, and arts you will find numerous things to do in Malaysia. And if you want to stay in fabulous resorts surrounded by stunning scenery you will also find several things to do in Malaysia.
Here is our list of the top things to do in Malaysia:
Start with the capital: Kuala Lumpur
KL is home to several landmarks, including the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers: Petronas Twin Towers, The 400 million years old Batu Caves, and the all-night street restaurant Jalan Alor.
The multicultural capital of Malaysia offers a unique mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese cultures, which is very apparent in its neighborhoods, shops, and cuisine. You will never lack for things to do in Malaysia if you start your trip by visiting Kuala Lumpur.
If you happen to be in Kuala Lumpur there is a list of must-visits and on top of this list is Batu Caves. Located approximately 11 kilometers to the north of Kuala Lumpur, this limestone hill comprises three major caves, a number of smaller ones and a 100-year-old temple.
You should also check Chinatown while you are in KL, and Sunway Lagoon theme park. Also, a must-do there is visiting the firefly colony in Kuala Selangor, watching the glittering fireflies sparkle in the trees is a must-have experience!
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Penang
In 2008, this stunning island off the west coast of Malaysia was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most beautiful and lively tourist destinations in Malaysia, Penang has a focus on conservation and preservation, this marvelous city is renowned for both history and lush greenery.
If you travel to Penang make sure to visit its Tropical Spice Garden that showcases the best of the region’s flora and fauna. It is the only spice garden in South East Asia.
Moreover, this cosmopolitan island’s rich multicultural history, which goes back to the beginnings of British colonization in the 18th century, is full of Chinese, Indian and European influences.
Penang is also renowned for being the “food paradise” of Malaysia. That may be due to the abundance of exotic spices and the mixture of cultures!
Tour the historic town of Malacca
Famous for being the unofficial historic capital of Malaysia, this picturesque city features incredible sights and rich heritage.
You can explore the magnificent historic sites that Malacca has to offer on foot, the city is small and the historic streets are easy to navigate.
If you happen to be in Malacca though, you have to visit the Butterfly & Reptile Sanctuary. This one of a kind tourist attraction 15km northeast of Malacca town, also known as Taman Rama Rama, is home to a various collection of animals ranging from striking butterflies to snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and koi fish.
Relax and Sunbathe in Langkawi
Powder-fine sand, swaying coconut trees, spectacular seafood restaurants, and luxurious resorts!
Langkawi offers something for every traveler; this Asian paradise is rich with amazing scenery, lively tourist attractions, simple local life, and world-class resorts.
If you happen to be in Langkawi you have to hike to Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls (Seven Wells Waterfalls). Located in Mount Mat Cincang, this breathtaking natural formation encompasses a series of seven connected natural pools fed by seven separate waterfalls.
Or, if you want to admire the amazing sceneries which the island has to offer without hiking, check Langkawi Sky Bridge, this thrilling tourist attraction is a 125-meter-long curved pedestrian bridge that overlooks Gunung Mat Cincang, Telaja Tujuh waterfalls, and several islets surrounding Langkawi.
To Access the Sky Bridge, ride the Langkawi Cable Car, the ride provides a world of fun all by itself.
Get away to the Genting Highlands
The city of entertainment, Genting Highlands make the most amazing getaway to people residing or vacating in Kuala Lumpur.
The highlands are at about 1760 meters above sea level, you can get a glimpse of the valley in which Kuala Lumpur is situated from the top.
Genting Highlands is home to the biggest theme park in Malaysia, which consists of an outdoor amusement park and an indoor amusement park, as well as an amazing water park.
Genting is also home to a couple of magnificent hotels. Due to its altitude, the temperature in Genting Highlands is much cooler than in Kuala Lumpur. This makes it the perfect getaway to the capital.
Have some amazing adventures in Sabah
Sabah is the second-biggest state of Malaysia. Located in the extreme north of Malaysia, Sabah neighbours the Philippines on the north, and the Indonesian island Sulawesi (Celebes) on the east, both separated by sea.
There are tons of exciting things you can experience in this beautiful area. For diving enthusiasts, Sabah has the best diving spots in Malaysia like Sipadan and Mabul.
Also, one of the best things you can do here is to climb Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and it is called Malaysia’s granite beast, enjoy your time reaching the summit at a height of 4,095 meters!
Other great things to do on Sabah are exploring the countryside with a 4×4, or doing a river cruise on the Kinabatangan River. Talking about rivers, there are several rivers to raft on Padas or Kiulu.
Don’t forget to visit Kota Kinabalu which is the biggest city in Sabah. It is a great city that is rapidly becoming more and more modern. In addition to its beaches, snorkelling and hiking adventures, Kinabalu National Park is a Heritage Site that absolutely worth a visit and among the best things you can do in Sabah.
Experience tourism in Putrajaya
Putrajaya is one of the most important tourist destinations in Malaysia, despite its small size, which does not exceed 49 kilometres, but it is an important destination as it is an extension to the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.
From its tourist attractions is Putra Mosque, which is also called the Blue Mosque, despite its pink colour, as it is characterized by its picturesque view of the lake, its high minaret, which reaches a height of 116 m, and its face is decorated with luxurious granite stones that were formed to attract attention to it.
When you talk about shopping, IOI City Mall is your next step, as it is the largest full-service shopping centre in Kuala Lumpur, you have to put it in your plan when travelling to Malaysia, as its total area is about one and a half million square meters that includes a chain of stores that offer the most famous local and international brands, in addition to a chain of the finest international hotels such as Palm Garden and Al Mardan. Away from shopping and lodging, you can spend a great time in the theme parks, movie theatres, and ice skating rinks.
As for nature, Putrajaya Lake is famous for the lake that has been placed on the UNESCO Heritage List, for its multiple bridges decorated with lighthouses and colourful night lights that pass across the summit, perhaps the most famous of which is Putrajaya Bridge in addition to the regional and international competitions it sponsors.
