Are you looking for places to visit in Malaysia? It’s an amazing country with lots of wildlife, paradise islands, diverse cultures, yummy food, and many historical sites as well.
To make your travel planning a bit easier, I’ve made a list of 25 Amazing places to visit in Malaysia. This will make sure that you get a memorable itinerary and see more what the country has to offer.
A lot of tourists visit Kuala Lumpur, which is the Malaysian capital, and while that city is definitely worth a visit, the country itself has so much more to offer.
Kinabatangan River
Want to see wild elephants in their natural environment? Plan a trip to Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Borneo.
Not only will you see elephants, but the river area is home to a vast amount of wildlife and ecosystems. It’s a marvel for animal lovers like me, and nothing is better than seeing the animals in their own habitat, in an eco-friendly way.
Photo: Shutterstock
Perhentian Islands
Dreaming of that holiday with picture-perfect beaches and crystal clear water? Then the Perhentian Islands is a destination for you.
The islands are located at the Eastern side of the country up in the North. You can fly to Kuala Terengganu or Kota Bharu, and from there take a taxi or bus to the Kuala Besut jetty, where you hop on a boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Photo: Shutterstock
Georgetown
Do you enjoy street art? Georgetown has become something of a mecca when it comes to street art in Southeast Asia. There are some really creative art pieces around the city, such as the street art pictured below.
However, Georgetown is not only about street art, but it’s also a fantastic place to indulge in some street food. In fact, Georgetown and Penang in general has seen such a mix of cultures throughout history that it has become a melting pot of cultures.
And whenever there’s a melting pot of cultures, you can be sure that you’ll end up in a haven for foodies.
Bako National Park
Bako National Park is home to these distant relatives of ours, also known as the Proboscis monkey or long-nosed monkey. They are endemic to Borneo and are characterized by their unusually big nose.
The national park is also home to many other species such as silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, bearded pigs, and as many as 190 different bird species.
Photo: Shutterstock
Malacca
Malacca is actually the name of the state, known as “the historic state”, but there is also a city with the same name, Malacca City. The historical city center of Malacca has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The colonial heritage is very interesting and dates back to the 16th century. Some of the most famous tourist attractions include A Famosa, Stadthuys, St Paul’s Church, Melaka Sultanate palace, and the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum.
Photo: Shutterstock
Chemerung Falls
With stunning nature often comes spectacular waterfalls, and this Malaysian waterfall is not an exception. Chemerung Falls is located in the Northeastern part of the country, in a forest with the same name.
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Sarawak Cultural Village
If you’re looking for a cultural experience, then you should write down the Sarawak Cultural village on your list of places to visit in Malaysia.
The small village that is referred to as a living museum is tucked away on the foothills of Mount Santubong and offers a glimpse back in history and the life of the people of Sarawak.
Photo: Shutterstock
Borneo
Perhaps most famous for being home to Orangutans, one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. Borneo is a true heaven for nature lovers, and as long as your trip is eco-friendly, you will also make sure to help the conservation and protection of this diverse island.
The orangutans and many other animals are facing extinction due to deforestation. By visiting Borneo, you’ll show the Malaysian government and local companies that there is a huge value in preserving Borneo and stop the deforestation.
Photo: Shutterstock
Batu Caves
Just a short train ride from Kuala Lumpur lies the Batu Caves, which has become one of the most famous places to visit in Malaysia.
So what’s it all about? The Batu Caves are a series of caves and Hindu temples, and it features a massive statue of Lord Murugan.
Mount Kinabalu
If you’re looking for scenic views and want to climb the highest mountain in Malaysia, this is the place to go. With a height of 4 095 meters above the sea, Mount Kinabalu is one of the tallest mountains in Southeast Asia.
The Kinabalu National Park has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s incredibly biodiverse with many endemic plants.
Photo: Shutterstock
Pangkor Laut Resort
If you’re traveling around Southeast Asia on your honeymoon or just want a romantic getaway with your loved one, then Pangkor Laut Resort offers a luxurious, yet affordable experience that can compare to the Maldives.
The Overwater villas are truly stunning, and this resort has everything you could wish for from a romantic getaway.
See more photos and prices here
Sipadan Island
Scuba-divers and snorkelers will love Sipadan Island, which has some of the richest marine life in the region. It’s actually regarded as one of the best dive sites in the entire world.
However, in order to dive here, you need a permit since only a handful of people are allowed per day, which is a good thing to protect the area from over-tourism and pollution.
Photo: Shutterstock
Legoland
You don’t have to travel to Denmark in order to experience Legoland, you can just go to Johur in Malaysia.
This Legoland theme park is the first international park of its kind, and it has something for all ages. I believe we are many who’ve played with lego as kids, and it will give you that same nostalgic feeling as Disneyland.
Photo: Rasdi Abdul Rahman / Shutterstock.com
Cameron Highlands
Fancy a cup of tea? The Cameron Highlands have several stunning tea plantations that not only offers delicious tea, but also a memorable experience and breathtaking views.
It’s a great place to travel during the hotter months as the temperature rarely reach over 30 degrees Celsius. The Brits came here during the colonial period to cool down and enjoy the tranquil environment.
These days, it’s a popular weekend destination, so the further away you get into the highlands, the fewer people you’ll share the scenic views with.
Photo: Shutterstock
Manukan Island
Another paradise island and a great day trip destination if you plan to visit Kota Kinabalu. The Manukan Island is just 15 minutes away by boat, and offers some stunning beaches and snorkeling.
Photo: Shutterstock
Danum Valley
A conservation area that is teeming with wildlife. If you haven’t realized yet, Malaysia is a very biodiverse country, and the rainforests and national parks are home to a large number of species.
Danum Valley is located in Sabah and covers an area of 438 square kilometers.
Photo: Shutterstock
Ipoh
Ipoh is the capital of Perak but is often overlooked by international tourists.
In my opinion, Ipoh is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, at least if you want to get an authentic experience, watch street art and colonial architecture at its finest.
It’s a charming city and should be included in your itinerary if time allows.
Photo: NavinTar / Shutterstock.com
Mulu Caves
Malaysia is full of caves, but the Mulu caves are some of the most impressive. They are a part of the Gunung Mulu National Park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Photo: Shutterstock
Tioman Island
Lush mountains, paradise beaches, and turquoise water awaits visitors who travel to this paradise island.
Photo: Shutterstock
Kenyir Lake
This is the biggest lake in Malaysia at 260 km², and although it’s man-made it’s very beautiful.
Photo: Shutterstock
Kota Kinabalu
The Capital of Sabah is worth a visit as well, and here you will find impressive architecture, local markets and a great base for exploring the region.
Photo: Shutterstock
Kuala Lumpur
The Malaysian capital has certainly become a popular stop along the typical Southeast Asian itinerary. Many tourists use this city as a layover or stay for a couple of days to admire the Petronas twin towers or shopping.
I’ve been there several times, and the city has grown on me. Kuala Lumpur has some really good restaurants and street food, and there is also an abundance of skyscraper hotels and apartment buildings with infinity pools, offering breathtaking views of the skyline.
Just a quick example, Christine and I stayed in an Airbnb apartment called Regalia Suites and had access to a really cool infinity pool overlooking the KL tower. The cost? A mere 18 USD per night and the standard was very good as well with fast internet.
Sungai Klah Hot Springs
Hot springs might not be the first thing you think of since Malaysia is a tropical country, but Sungai Klah Hot Springs is quite amazing since it’s also surrounded by lush nature.
Many believe that these natural hot springs have healing properties that will help to heal and detox your body. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or getaway in Malaysia, and it’s just 70 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur.
Photo: Shutterstock
Taman Negara
The world’s oldest tropical rainforest, 130 million years old and still standing. Taman Negara is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia if you like to spend time outdoors.
The rainforest is filled with activities such as canopy walking, camping and observing wildlife. In Taman Negara, you can also visit the Aborigines Village and learn more about their traditions and way of life.
Photo: Shutterstock
Langkawi
Last but not least, Langkawi, a popular holiday destination for the last 10 years. This paradise island has some stunning beaches with white sand, and it is certainly a nice beach destination in Southeast Asia.
However, due to its popularity, you should expect it to be somewhat touristy in order to avoid disappointment. Nevertheless, Langkawi is still one of the best places to visit in Malaysia for beautiful beaches.
Photo: Shutterstock
Top 10 Best Places to visit in Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur
- Penang/Georgetown
- Mount Kinabalu
- Perhentian Islands
- Bako National Park
- Kinabatangan River
- Batu Caves
- Sipadan Island
- Borneo
- Malacca
Book Your Trip
So, now that you know about all these beautiful places to visit in Malaysia, it’s time to book your trip!
Malaysia is an incredible destination where you can spend weeks or even months. If you know some more beautiful places to visit in Malaysia, feel free to share in the comment section!