Explore the Beauty of Malaysia: Top 10 Places To Visit

Travel

14 Jan

As the locals say, "Selamat Datang" or Welcome! Malaysia is a Southeast Asian paradise that is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food. From the historical landmarks of Melaka to the beautiful island of Langkawi, there are so many unique and interesting places to visit in Malaysia. In this article, we will take a look some of the beautiful Malaysian states that are perfect for your next holiday.

10 must-see destinations in Malaysia

1. Johor

Johor is a state located on the southern tip of Malaysia. It is a popular destination for tourists, especially for those living or coming from Singapore, which is just a short drive away. It is also very accessible by public transport such as buses or trains, or private one way transfers. There are also tons of shopping malls and night markets in the heart of Johor Bahru but the Johor Premium Outlets tops my list as the shopping destination that offers a wide variety of high-end brands at discounted prices.

*The view of the Straits of Johor Clock Tower from* *Thistle Hotel Johor Bahru*

If you're looking for a beach holiday near Singapore, Desaru Coast would be perfect. This is a beautiful beach destination located on the east coast of Johor, known for its many five star resorts including Hard Rock Hotel, The Westin or Anantara Desaru Coast Resort. If you are travelling with kids, consider going on the day tour that includes a visit to the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark and Desaru Fruit Farm!

Desaru Coast is the go-to beach destination for weekend trips due to its close proximity to Singapore.

2. Melaka

Melaka, also known as Malacca, is a historic city located on the west coast of Malaysia, known for its rich culture, beautiful architecture, colourful streets, and delicious food. The city has a long and interesting history, with influences from various cultures including Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese.

*Famosa — The only remaining part of the ancient fortress of Malacca, built by Alfonso D Alboquerque.*

One of the unique locations to visit in Melaka is the Melaka River Cruise, which takes you on a leisurely boat ride along the Melaka River and allows you to see the city from a different perspective. You can also choose to go on a Historical Malacca Day Tour (with lunch provided) or visit the Melaka Sultanate Palace, a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Melaka Sultanate, which ruled the region in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Other unique locations to visit in Melaka include Jonker Street where you can find cuisines from all around the world, the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Peranakan community, and the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia.

p.s. Melaka will always have a special place in my heart because that's where I was born!

Plantation in Kedah, Malaysia

3. Kedah

Kedah is a state located in the northwest region of Malaysia, known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and delicious food. The Gunung Jerai National Park is another interesting place to visit in Kedah, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna and is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching. The Kedah River Cruise is a unique way to see the state, taking you on a leisurely boat ride along the Kedah River and allowing you to see the surrounding area from a different perspective.

Beautiful suspended bridge in Langkawi Island.

The state is home to several unique locations that are worth visiting, including the Langkawi Island, a popular holiday destination known for its crystal clear waters and sandy beaches. Langkawi is a popular holiday destination for tourists from all over the world, and there are many things to do and see on the island. The Langkawi Cable Car and the Langkawi Sky Bridge offers stunning views of the island, definitely a must-try when you're there!

Tip: We highly recommend getting the Langkawi Attraction Pass if you wish to visit more than one attraction. It's definitely cheaper and more convenient than purchasing multiple tickets!

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4. Penang

A bustling street scene in the historic city of Penang, Malaysia

Located on the northwest coast of Malaysia, Penang is known for its diverse culture and delicious food. While you're there, you have to try the delicious street food, which reflects the blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures, with popular dishes including Char Kway Teow, Laksa, and Nasi Kandar. There's even a Wonderfood Museum in Penang that showcases these!

A view from the top of Penang Hill, Penang, Malaysia

View from the top of Penang Hill, Malaysia

Penang Hill, also known as Bukit Bendera, is a hill resort located in Penang, Malaysia, offering scenic views of the city and surrounding areas, as well as popular hiking trails, temples, and a funicular train ride to the summit.

Another interesting place to visit in Penang is the Penang Butterfly Farm, which is home to a wide variety of butterfly species and is a popular spot for nature lovers, and the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, a historic Chinese mansion that has been turned into a museum.

5. Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is commonly known, is the capital city of Malaysia. Located in the heart of the country, it is known for its modern skyline and bustling streets. We do visit quite often due to relatives living in the country, but you can expect to see expats and lots of tourists here, as compared to other states of Malaysia.

Taking photos at KLCC Park while enjoying the view of the famous KLCC Petronas Towers

Enjoying the view of KLCC Petronas Towers

One of the most iconic landmarks in KL is the Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of skyscrapers that are connected by a skybridge and are among the tallest buildings in the world. This building is so big that there is also Aquaria hidden in there, one of the top five aquariums in Asia.

View of Sunway Lagoon from above (Photo by billywong)

Just a few minutes away, you can find the Kuala Lumpur Tower, a communications tower that offers panoramic views of the city, and the KLCC Park, a beautiful park located near the Petronas Twin Towers. If you're travelling with kids, consider heading to Sunway Lagoon and spend your day with up to 90 rides and attractions in one place.

The famous rainbow steps of Batu Caves

Another popular attraction in KL is the Batu Caves, a series of limestone caves that are home to several Hindu temples. These caves are located just outside of the city center and we highly recommend going on a private day tour to explore these caves. Alternatively, if you're considering spending a few days here, it would be more convenient to rent a car or get the Kuala Lumpur travel pass.

6. Terengganu

Beautiful sunset off the coast of Pulau Redang, Terengganu

Terengganu is a state located on the east coast of Malaysia, known for its beautiful beaches and unique culture. The state is home to several unique locations that are worth visiting, including the Terengganu State Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the state. The Terengganu Craft Cultural Complex is another interesting place to visit, where you can learn about traditional crafts and see demonstrations of traditional techniques.

A shot off the coast of Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu

Some of the most popular islands in Terengganu include Pulau Redang, Pulau Perhentian, and Pulau Lang Tengah. These islands offer white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. You can also enjoy the tropical climate and lush vegetation while exploring the islands.

Many of these islands are also marine parks, where you can learn about the marine life, coral reefs or even witness turtle hatching during its season!

7. Sabah

Sabah is at the top of my list for places in Malaysia that I want to visit this year. Located on the island of Borneo, known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and diverse culture.

Mount Kinabalu

It is home to several unique locations that are worth visiting, including the Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the famous Mount Kinabalu. If you're not looking to climb Mount K, consider going on the Mount Kinabalu Farm Day Tour for a more family-friendly activity.

Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu

The Poring Hot Springs is another popular attraction in Sabah, where you can soak in natural hot springs and enjoy the soothing effects of the minerals in the water. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a popular spot for nature lovers, where you can see rescued orangutans being rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Cultural Tour at Mari Mari Cultural Village

Cultural Village Tour (Photo from Borneo Travel)

Other unique locations to visit in Sabah include the Mari Mari Cultural Village, where you can learn about the traditions and culture of the local indigenous communities, and the Sabah Tea Garden, where you can learn about the history and production of tea in the region. The state is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Pulau Sipadan, which is known for its crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs.

8. Putrajaya

Known as the administrative capital of Malaysia, Putrajaya is home to many government buildings, including the prime minister's office. The city is known for its modern architecture and is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in learning about the government and history of Malaysia.

A beautiful mosque that is known for its distinctive pink dome

A unique location to visit in Putrajaya is the Putra Mosque, a beautiful mosque that is known for its distinctive pink dome and is a popular spot for religious pilgrimages. The Putra Bridge is another interesting place to visit, which is a unique cable-stayed bridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Afternoon view of Putrajaya

You can easily do a private day tour of Putrajaya from Kuala Lumpur that includes a traditional boat ride through Putrajaya lake where you get to enjoy the scenery and modern architecture all at once.

9. Pahang

Tea Plantations in Cameron Highlands

Pahang is a state located in the central region of Malaysia, home to several unique locations that are worth visiting, including the Cameron Highlands, a hill resort that is known for its tea plantations and beautiful views. We highly recommend going on the Cameron Highlands day tour, where you get to visit one of their many tea plantations, including the strawberry, butterfly and bee farms!

The Taman Negara National Park is another popular attraction in Pahang, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest and best kept tropical rainforests in the world. I have been there once in 2009 and I remember staying up by the river next to our campsite, watching the beautiful stars that canvased the sky. It was a core memory for me, and the start to my outdoor adventure career back then.

Traditional boat ride along Trenggan River

The Taman Negara National Park Tour is a unique way to see the state, taking you on a leisurely boat ride along the Trenggan River and allowing you to see the surrounding area from a different perspective. Other unique locations to visit in Pahang include the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, a conservation center formed by the government to help protect and preserve the Malaysian elephants.

10. Perak

Relax with meditation at the crystal caves (Photo by Klook)

Another beautiful state for outdoor adventure lovers. Perak is home to several unique locations that are worth visiting, starting with its capital city, Ipoh. Go on a day tour of the historical city of Ipoh to explore a colorful cityscape and age-old colonial attractions or go on a retreat to The Banjaran Hotsprings for a relaxing day while soaking in nature's breathtaking view.

Hidden Oasis in the Limestone Valley of Perak

For adventure lovers, visit Gopeng, a town located in the central region of Perak that is known for its beautiful caves and outdoor adventures. I have been there three times and enjoyed every single visit. I thoroughly enjoyed going white water rafting, learning about the limestones of Tempurung Cave, waterfall abseiling and exploring the beautiful wildlife that Gopeng has to offer.

And there you have it, folks, the crème de la crème of Malaysia's states to visit. These 10 destinations are a true representation of the country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Malaysia has so much to offer and these are just a few of the many unique places to visit, there are many more waiting to be discovered! So pack your bags, grab your passport and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in this captivating country.

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Nurul Mimsy

Nurul was born in Malaysia, raised in Singapore and graduated from Western Australia. Her dream is to migrate there one day. With over 8 years of marketing and blogging experience, Nurul now specialises in SEO and content, serving the Muslim community through tech.

She loves cameras, quiet mornings, bubble tea, roller coasters, iced coffee, bungee jumping and brunches over any other meal of the day. Just don’t let her eat any durian or anything spicy.

http://www.exploretomakan.com