Malaysia is a lush, green gem of a country located in the Malay Peninsula. That’s an amazing total landmass of more than 300,000 square kilometers of sheer fun. It’s a country of incredible, truly incredible beaches, rainforests, resorts, secluded islands, elevated hill stations and so much more. Malaysia has its share of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well, something that our culture vultures will love. Malaysia’s population is made of Indians, Chinese, Malays, and various indigenous groups. Their influences are reflected in the country’s cultural relics and architecture. And of course the food – did we mention the finger-licking food you can enjoy in Malaysia. Here is a roundup of the best things to do in Malaysia during your holiday, so that you do not miss out on anything.
Best Things to Do in Malaysia
1. Visit the Petronas Towers
The famous Petronas Twin Towers at Kuala Lumpur stands proud at 451.9 meters. The two towers are connected to each other by a 170-meter high sky bridge, which incidentally is the tallest two-story bridge in the world. Visit the observation deck on the 86th floor for the magnificently panoramic views. The towers have been constructed using postmodern architecture, featuring Islamic motifs that represent Malaysia’s majority, the Muslims.
2. Shop Duty-free At Langkawi
Langkawi Island is an archipelago of more than a hundred islands in the Andaman Sea. Langkawi offers some excellent dive spots, apart from pristine beaches with turquoise waters. And there’s more. 100% duty-free shopping! So don’t shop for your souvenirs from anywhere else in Malaysia. Wait till you get to Langkawi and do some duty-free splurging, one of the top things to do in Malaysia.
Suggested Read: Top Free Things to Do in Langkawi
3. Explore The Historic State Of Malacca
Malacca, lying next to the Malacca Strait has some of Malaysia’s most interesting architecture. Malacca was once a Portuguese colony; you can tell that from the number of buildings painted with red lacquer. Christ Church is a good example of the Portuguese architecture you’ll find in Malacca. This city has a number of art galleries, museums and many places of historic interest that’ll have great appeal to culture vultures.
4. Explore Taman Negara National Park
Located in the state of Pahang, Taman Negara National Park is the largest national park in Peninsular Malaysia. That apart, this park has the world’s longest rope walkway. Enjoy the many lovely treks the park offers including the 100km trip around the park. The Taman Negara National Park offers a great array of plant-life and wildlife. The indigenous peoples Orang Asli (Original People) who live in this park are said to be Malaysia’s first inhabitants.
5. Escape to the Genting Highlands
Located at a height of 5000 plus feet, the Genting Highlands is located in the Titiwangsa Mountains. At Genting Highlands, you can enjoy a number of theme parks, nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. There’s also the Genting Skyway, once considered South Asia’s longest and fastest gondola lift in the world.
6. Make Friends with the Orangutans at Sepilok
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If you love wildlife, don’t miss a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah. This center rescues orangutans orphaned due to illegal poaching and logging. It is illegal to keep orangutans as pets, so if any are found, they are taken up at Sepilok. The center releases the orangutans into the wild after they are restored to wellness.
7. Enjoy Many Activities at Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu in Sabah is a rich region comprising Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, many beaches, markets and more. Once there you can go kayaking, snorkeling, diving, and trekking on Mount Kinabalu, wildlife watching and more. Enjoy the sunsets from the mountain, and try the handicrafts sold at the local markets.
8. Visit the Perhentian Islands
Pulau Besar and Pulau Kecil are the two islands that make up the Perhentian islands. People head out here to experience the exquisite beaches, beach bars, and laidback culture. If you’re a party animal, head to Kecil Island for late-night beach parties. This island offers plenty of budget stays. If you want quiet beach time and stay at upscale resorts, head to Besar. You can go scuba diving on both islands at some of the world’s cheapest prices.
9. Try Sea Walking at Borneo
Not much good at scuba diving or swimming? At Borneo, you can try your hand at Sea Walking. You’ll be wearing a helmet that keeps you dry above the neck, and provides oxygen. You can walk on the seafloor, while the rich marine life swim and the brilliant corals’ fan around you.
10. Go On A Foodie Adventure in Penang
Penang is the foodie capital of Malaysia. Here you’ll find various world cuisines and a cuisine that is a fusion of Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. Be sure to explore the eateries and food stalls at Chulia Street, where you can enjoy traditional Malay and Chinese street foods. Also, visit Penang’s Red Garden Food Court nearby where you can grab a lot of food for cheap.
11. Greet The Coolness Of Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands offers a cool respite from the heat of Malaysia. Think of endless rolling hills and the lush greenery of tea estates – you certainly want to visit! The Cameron Highlands was developed for tea plantation by the British explorers in the early 1900s. The British culture is ever-present here – you can enjoy high tea with hot scones with fresh cream at any café.
12. Explore Malaysia’s China Town
Visit Petaling Street (Jalan Petaling) in Kuala Lumpur, where the Chinese-Malay culture thrives. Shop for Chinese souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, and imitation designer stuff. You can feel free to haggle as much as you like. Sample some hot street food when you break from shopping – it’s the best place in Kuala Lumpur to get some authentic Chinese-Malay style food.
13. Explore Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
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It’s called a national park but in actuality, it’s a collection of five islands in Sabah, off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. You can access Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park by ferry. Explore the five islands and the verdant forests, flowering plants, and wildlife and plant-life on them. Here’s what to do in Malaysian national parks – you go trekking, hiking, bird-watching, swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
14. Explore Redang Island
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Pulau Redang is a lovely island where the Bugis people from Celebes, Indonesia settled a long time ago. You’ll find many descendants of the original settlers working the tourist trade. Redang is a pristine island with lovely beaches and fantastic diving spots that throb with a rich marine life.
15. Explore the Batu Caves
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The Batu Caves are one of the top Malaysian tourist places, located within an enormous limestone cliff. You’ll find plenty of lovely deep caves and Hindu shrines here. Right at the foot of the limestone cliff, acting as a sort of doorkeeper, is a 140-foot tall statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu God of war. Cathedral Cave is the most famous of the Batu Caves, with intricately decorated interiors and several Hindu shrines.
Conclusion
With so many interesting things to do in Malaysia, you will never stay bored or monotonous. You can always find something in its bowl of activities that will promise an unforgettable stay. Also, the natural wonders are so many and so varied that you can rig up separate tour itineraries for each visit with great ease.
