Malaysia has plenty to explore, and the list can be endless! But when time is limited, you want to make the most of your trip by including the best destinations and activities. Choose from these top things to do in Malaysia to plan your dream adventure. From sunbathing on Langkawi’s pristine beaches, marvelling at the world’s tallest twin towers, to tea-tasting in Cameron Highlands — Malaysia has something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer, shopper, or foodie!
Don’t forget to explore Malaysia’s best hot spring retreats.
Best things to do in Malaysia
Explore the world’s largest cave chamber at Gunung Mulu National Park
Located on Malaysia’s Borneo island, in the state of Sarawak, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gunung Mulu National Park. It is famous for some of the most stunning karst features like the largest cave chamber in the world, the Sarawak Chamber. Another top national park attraction is Gunung Mulu, the eponymous sandstone pinnacle that stands 7,798 ft tall. The many caves are also home to millions of bats and cave swiftlets, rare in the national park.
How to reach: Kuching International Airport is the closest major airport, approximately 796 km away.
Witness the unique biodiversity of Kinabalu Park
Also resting on Borneo Island, Sabah’s Kinabalu Park is known for its rich global biodiversity with flora from the Himalayas, China, Australia, the Malay Peninsula and the pan-tropical region. The UNESCO World Heritage site beckons nature lovers and adventurers with Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain between New Guinea and the Himalayas. Climbing the mountain is a top thing to do in Malaysia for many aspiring hikers, offering the best way to experience its incredible flora and fauna, along with botanical gardens and hot springs.
Peruse this guide to must-visit places in Kota Kinabalu.
How to reach: Kota Kinabalu International Airport is approximately 106 km away.
Book your stay at Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel via Agoda
Discover the trade-influenced heritage of Malacca
Malacca and George Town have been the epicentre of cultural exchange, celebrated as UNESCO World Heritage sites for being the historic cities of the Strait of Malacca. The strait is the shortest sea route between India and China and has experienced 500 years of culture, history and trade.
Also spelt Melaka, the oldest Malaysian city, has traces of the 15th-century Malay sultanate and 16th-century Portuguese and Dutch colonial rule. The best way to experience the city is through the iconic Chinatown Jonker Street, Melaka Straits Mosque, Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Stadthuys, and the Malacca River.
How to reach: Malacca International Airport, previously known as Batu Berendam Airport, is within the city.
Relish the delicacies of George Town
The capital of Penang is famous for its exciting food markets, which are credited to the city’s exposure to different cultures. Relish Malaysian delicacies like Char Koay Teow, Penang Assam Laksa, Hokkien Hae Mee and Curry Mee as you navigate George Town’s Chulia Street Hawker Food, Kimberley Street Food, Macallum Street Night Market and Chowrasta Market.
Remember to explore the city’s top tourist attractions, such as Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, Chew Jetty, Dhammikarama Burmese Temple, Chaiya Mangalaram Thai Buddhist Temple, Armenian Street, Kek Lok Si Temple, and the marvellous Street Art Penang.
How to reach: Penang International Airport is about 17 km from the city.
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Visit the tallest twin towers in the world
The Petronas Twin Towers, standing 451.9 metres tall, are the heart of commercial Kuala Lumpur. The 88-storied building offers one of the best views of the city’s skyline from the double-decked Skybridge and Observation Deck. Within the complex are the Suria KLCC Mall, the top luxury and high-fashion avenue, and KLCC Park, a 50-acre lush urban sanctuary.
Don’t forget to check the best tourist places and top things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
Entry fee: RM 98 (HKD 167)
How to reach: Kuala Lumpur International Airport is approximately 60 kilometres away.
Experience the spirituality of the Batu Caves
Religion meets nature at the iconic Batu Caves, where ancient temples are hidden away in the crevices and caves of a mountain. After climbing 272 steps, tourists are welcomed with the grand statue of the Hindu god, Lord Murugan. The main attractions of the mighty cavern are the central Temple Cave and Ramayana Cave, each etched with traditional art.
Entry fee: Free
How to reach: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 25 kilometres away.
Book your stay at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur via Booking.com
Book your stay at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur via Agoda
Taste tea from the plantations of Cameron Highlands
The British-era hill station is now a beloved resort town, lined with heritage resorts and hotels that offer the idyllic escape to the lush tea plantations. The mountains range from 1,300 to 1,892 metres, and the maximum temperatures rarely reach 30 degrees Celsius. The breathtaking natural beauty of Cameron Highlands can be experienced at Mossy Forest, Boh Tea Plantation, Cameron Highlands Flora Park, Sheep Sanctuary, Big Red Strawberry Farm and Cactus Valley. Don’t forget to try tea at one of the many tea plantations.
How to reach: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport is approximately 113 kilometres away.
Escape to the duty-free archipelago of Langkawi
Situated off the coast of northwestern Malaysia, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea. The ‘Jewel of Kedah’ promises breathtaking natural beauty and cultural charms through its stunning landmarks. Explore the Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah, Pulau Dayang Bunting, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Langkawi Cable Car, and the Sky Bridge. Besides the beaches, rainforests, waterfalls and mountains, shopping is the top thing to do in Langkawi, thanks to the island’s duty-free status.
How to reach: Langkawi International Airport is the main airport on the archipelago.
Best time to visit Malaysia
Malaysia has a tropical climate, with the year split between dry and wet seasons. While the Northern Hemisphere experiences winter, the months from December to March are marked by sunny and pleasant days. This period is ideal for exploring the country.
To know more, peruse our guide on the best time to visit Malaysia.
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(Feature image credit: Esmonde Yong/Unsplash)
Related | 15 Guinness World Records You Probably Didn’t Know Malaysia Held
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Tea tasting in Cameron Highlands, Langkawi's Sky Bridge and Cable Car, touring the Petronas Twin Towers are some of the family-friendly activities.
Malaysia's best known for its multicultural community, diverse landscapes and breathtaking beauty.
Written By
Priyaja Bakshi
Digital Writer - Growth, TravelPriyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism ..Read More
