The island nation of Malaysia has so much to offer that you will have a hard time deciding what to include in your Malaysia tour. Malaysia is partly located on the Malay Peninsula and part on the island of Borneo, separated by the South China Sea. While you have bustling modern cities, skyscrapers, and relaxing islands on the peninsula, you can also find jungles filled with exotic wild animals like the orangutan, remote tribes and diving opportunities on the island of Borneo. Borneo’s rainforests are one of the oldest on earth, over 140 million years in the making. The country is full of natural and man-made attractions and is an amalgamation of varied cultural influences like Malay, Chinese, European and Indian.
Here is a guide to some of the many attractions of Malaysia, which you can consider while booking your Malaysia tour packages.
Nature and wildlife in Malaysia
Malaysia is globally known for its abundant and spectacular natural beauty such as lush tropical rainforests which boasts some of the most exotic wildlife on earth, beautiful azure seas, mysterious caves and mountain peaks, and gorgeous waterfalls.
Cameron Highlands : Just three and a half hours drive away (about 205 km) from Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highland is the most scenic hill station in Malaysia. The highlands is blessed with lush greenery and stunning landscape and has rejuvenating tea plantations, picturesque orchards, and blissful gardens. The island offers a range of activities, from walking in tea gardens to hiking and trekking in dense forests, and visiting strawberry farms. Travellers who want to be with nature away from the noise of the big cities or want to escape the heat of the low lands should head to this paradise.
Taman Negara National Park : Nothing could be more enjoyable than a nature walk through one of the oldest deciduous rainforests in the world. It would be best if you considered getting Malaysia tour packages from India, which includes the Taman Negara national park. It is home to rare plants, and exotic birds like the rare Malayan peacock-pheasant, and animals like Malaysian tiger, Malaysian gaur and Asian elephants. Check the world’s longest canopy walkway, experience fishing, caving, observing wildlife and much more. So, if nature interests you then don’t miss this place.
Mount Kinabalu in Sabah : The highest mountain in Malaysia standing 4095 metres (13,435 feet), Gunung Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu) Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site is a major attraction for thousands of climbers every year. Whether you choose to climb the high summit or explore the various flora species, Mount Kinabalu is a great nature’s retreat.
Pulao Payar Marine Park : This marine park is all about undersea actions like snorkelling and scuba diving. Just 30 km south of Langkawi main island, you can reach there on a catamaran or a speedboat in about an hour. Spread over two nautical miles, this marine park is famed for the varied and colourful marine life surrounding a coral reef.
Gunung Mulu National Park : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park in the island of Borneo is home to some of the largest and longest cave passage (the Deer Cave) and underground chamber (the Sarawak Chamber) in the world and karst formations. The caves are home to millions of bats and cave swiftlets that swarm out into the jungle every evening at dusk. Visitors will be pleasantly surprised by the gigantic razor-sharp grey pinnacles, and deep-cut canyons, which are aptly named The Pinnacles Trail.
Cultural Heritage of Malaysia -
Being a part of the ancient international spice route many hundreds of years ago, Malaysia has turned into a land of intriguing cultural diversity. Everything from its people to its architecture, food to art, dance to attire reflect a colourful heritage and a mosaic of cultures.
George Town in Penang : A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, the virgin paradise of Penang is brimming with cultural sights. Visit George Town, the quaint and old capital of Penang state. The town is endowed with Asian and European influence that lends a unique cultural heritage evident in every nook and corner of the town. There are thousands of old buildings comprising Chinese shops, residential jetties, mosques, churches, temples, and British colonial edifices. Walking through the streets of George Town is like walking down the paths of history.
Go food hunting at Penang : Penang is fondly regarded as the food capital of Malaysia and is one of the world's best gastronomic destinations. The street food scene of Penang has the best elements from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thai and Indonesian cuisine that have been fused together to create unique and flavourful cuisine. Street and hawker food practically line the streets, and there are also large open-air food courts to sample different dishes under one roof. Some of the most popular food to try here are signature Penang Assam Laksa (a Chinese-Malay infused a sour and spicy noodle soup), Nasi Lemak (a coconut-based rice preparation), Otak-Otak (fishcake dish), Cendol (a sticky-sweet dessert) and Roti Chanai among a plethora of other delicacies.
Sarawak Cultural Village : The Sarawak Cultural Village is a unique living museum aimed at preserving the cultural heritage of Sarawak state. It offers a perfect introduction to local cultures and lifestyles. Here visitors can find replicas of buildings that represent the Bidayuh, Iban, Orang Ulu, Penan, Melanau, Malay and Chinese ethnic groups. The local people demonstrate traditional activities of Sarawak’s diverse tribes like making of handicrafts and the processing of sago. There is a theatre where you can enjoy multicultural dance performances. The cultural village also hosts theme dinners, nightly ceremonies and traditional weddings.
Take a tour of the mosques : Islam is one of the main religions in Malaysia, and no wonder several mosques also serve as places of worship for the majority Muslim community. Some of the prominent mosques here are National Mosque of Malaysia (aka Masjid Negara), Masjid Jamek (aka Friday Mosque), Putra Mosque, Friday Territory Mosque, and many more. If you are a visitor and curious about Islamic culture in Malaysia, then these mosques are the best place to find your answers.
Melaka (Malacca) : This historical city centre of Malaysia, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was the location of the earliest Malay Sultanates, which was later abolished by the Portuguese. The laid back, the old town of Malacca has a richly diverse history discovered through the Portuguese forts, colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, mosques, churches and temples. You can also browse through the antique curios shops and independent art galleries.
Watersports in Malaysia
Whether you are looking for family-friendly activities or some serious adrenaline-pumping activities, Malaysia has got you covered with all water adventures. With its pristine beaches and rushing rivers, Malaysia is an ideal holiday destination to indulge in water sports. Snorkelling, windsurfing, jet skiing and kayaking are some of the famous highlights here. Some of the best coral reefs in the South China Sea can be seen in Malaysia’s east coast, great for snorkelling.
Scuba Diving : Scuba diving is one of the most popular water activities to do while holidaying in Malaysia. Perhentian Island, Sipadan Island, Mataking Island, Mabul Island are some of the best places for scuba diving here. Sharks and turtles are a common sight along with a variety of fish and coral species on these islands.
Snorkelling : Malaysia’s tropical islands are popular snorkelling sites with beautiful reefs. The best locations for snorkelling in Malaysia are Langkawi Island, Tioman Island and Perhentian Island.
Sea Walking : If you lack diving or swimming abilities but still want to experience life underwater, sea walking is your best bet. It is perfect for the whole family and the kids. TARP (Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park) in Sabah is your best place to go for this underwater adventure.
White-water rafting : An excellent rafting destination in Malaysia is the Kampak River in Perak. It boasts 14 rapids of Class I and II. For a more family-friendly destination, Sungkai River is excellent for amateurs and beginners.
Kayaking : For a thrilling kayaking experience in Malaysia, head for mangrove kayaking in Langkawi. Kayaking can be a great arm workout, but it doesn’t have to be just that especially in Langkawi where you won’t even feel the arms at work because you’ll be busy admiring the scenery and looking out for wildlife. Other places to try kayaking in Malaysia are Merapuh, Kuching, and Seribuat Archipelago.
Popular attractions in Malaysia
Some of the attractions in Malaysia are often included in almost all tour itineraries of Malaysia tour packages. From man-made marvels to natural wonders and wildlife, one cannot miss the sights and activities below.
Petronas Towers : No Malaysia tour is complete without visiting the iconic Petronas towers. Located in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, these twin towers are the true modern architectural marvels. One of the most breathtaking experiences at Petronas Towers is to walk over the world’s highest two-storey bridge that joins the two towers.
Langkawi Sky Bridge : Another engineering marvel in Malaysia, which every Malaysia holiday packages include as a major tour highlight is the Sky Bridge in Langkawi. It is a 125 m long curved pedestrian suspension bridge at an altitude of 700 m that offers exhilarating views of the mountains, forests, seas and, and several islets around Langkawi. Located at the peak of Mt. Mat Cincang, one need to take the cable car ride to reach the bridge.
Batu Caves : A Malaysian national treasure, Hindu pilgrimage site and wildlife conservation zone, Batu caves is a limestone hill. Its main highlight is the massive statue of Tamil Hindu deity Murugan. Behind the figure, 272 steps lead to these limestone hill caves that house the temples.
Underwater World : Malaysia’s largest aquarium, the Underwater World in Langkawi houses more a wide variety of marine mammals and fish. At its 15 metre long underwater glass tunnel walkway visitors can enjoy an up-close view of sharks, harbour seals, giant stingrays, green turtles, rockhopper penguins and the massive Amazonian Arapaima (world’s biggest freshwater fish). Other highlights inside include a cafe, a 3D theatre, a souvenir shop and an educational resource centre. The complex is divided into themed sections on Tropical Rainforest, Temperate, Sub-Antarctic, Ponds, Corals and so on.
Spend time with elephants at the Kuala Gandah Elephant
Orphanage Sanctuary : A rare and fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with the endemic Malaysian elephants. Here, you are allowed to feed, to touch elephant trunks and take a photograph with these gentle giants. There are also opportunities to take the elephants down to the river and bath them. It is a safe sanctuary for the displaced elephants, which have been rescued from all over Peninsula Malaysia.
When to visit Malaysia
Malaysia is an equatorial tropical destination, and the variations in weather don’t differ much, and you can expect a consistently hot and humid climate throughout the year. The temperature here ranges between 26 degree Celsius to 28 degree Celsius. Malaysia’s western coast experiences its wet season from April to October, and the usually brief thundershowers bring relief from the humidity. The eastern coast experiences rainy season from October to March and has more torrential downpours than the west. And, the best time to visit Malaysia for sightseeing is between November to March when it has the least amount of rain. If you want to explore the beaches on the east coast of Malaysia, then plan your holiday anytime between March to September. While to visit the beaches on the west coast, travel from November to May.
How to reach Malaysia
If you are travelling to Malaysia, it is best if you book a flight from India. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is Malaysia’s busiest airport and one of the leading international airports in South East Asia. There are frequent flights from India to Kuala Lumpur. You can take flights from Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Kolkata, Jaipur, Amritsar to reach Kuala Lumpur operated by airlines such as AirAsia, AirAsia X, IndiGo, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air.
Also get more information and exclusive deals on popular Malaysia Theme Packages like Malaysia Honeymoon Packages, Malaysia Family Packages, Malaysia Beach Packages, etc.
Nature and wildlife in Malaysia
Malaysia is globally known for its abundant and spectacular natural beauty such as lush tropical rainforests which boasts some of the most exotic wildlife on earth, beautiful azure seas, mysterious caves and mountain peaks, and gorgeous waterfalls.
Cameron Highlands : Just three and a half hours drive away (about 205 km) from Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highland is the most scenic hill station in Malaysia. The highlands is blessed with lush greenery and stunning landscape and has rejuvenating tea plantations, picturesque orchards, and blissful gardens. The island offers a range of activities, from walking in tea gardens to hiking and trekking in dense forests, and visiting strawberry farms. Travellers who want to be with nature away from the noise of the big cities or want to escape the heat of the low lands should head to this paradise.
Taman Negara National Park : Nothing could be more enjoyable than a nature walk through one of the oldest deciduous rainforests in the world. It would be best if you considered getting Malaysia tour packages from India, which includes the Taman Negara national park. It is home to rare plants, and exotic birds like the rare Malayan peacock-pheasant, and animals like Malaysian tiger, Malaysian gaur and Asian elephants. Check the world’s longest canopy walkway, experience fishing, caving, observing wildlife and much more. So, if nature interests you then don’t miss this place.
Mount Kinabalu in Sabah : The highest mountain in Malaysia standing 4095 metres (13,435 feet), Gunung Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu) Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site is a major attraction for thousands of climbers every year. Whether you choose to climb the high summit or explore the various flora species, Mount Kinabalu is a great nature’s retreat.
Pulao Payar Marine Park : This marine park is all about undersea actions like snorkelling and scuba diving. Just 30 km south of Langkawi main island, you can reach there on a catamaran or a speedboat in about an hour. Spread over two nautical miles, this marine park is famed for the varied and colourful marine life surrounding a coral reef.
Gunung Mulu National Park : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park in the island of Borneo is home to some of the largest and longest cave passage (the Deer Cave) and underground chamber (the Sarawak Chamber) in the world and karst formations. The caves are home to millions of bats and cave swiftlets that swarm out into the jungle every evening at dusk. Visitors will be pleasantly surprised by the gigantic razor-sharp grey pinnacles, and deep-cut canyons, which are aptly named The Pinnacles Trail.
Cultural Heritage of Malaysia -
Being a part of the ancient international spice route many hundreds of years ago, Malaysia has turned into a land of intriguing cultural diversity. Everything from its people to its architecture, food to art, dance to attire reflect a colourful heritage and a mosaic of cultures.
George Town in Penang : A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, the virgin paradise of Penang is brimming with cultural sights. Visit George Town, the quaint and old capital of Penang state. The town is endowed with Asian and European influence that lends a unique cultural heritage evident in every nook and corner of the town. There are thousands of old buildings comprising Chinese shops, residential jetties, mosques, churches, temples, and British colonial edifices. Walking through the streets of George Town is like walking down the paths of history.
Go food hunting at Penang : Penang is fondly regarded as the food capital of Malaysia and is one of the world's best gastronomic destinations. The street food scene of Penang has the best elements from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thai and Indonesian cuisine that have been fused together to create unique and flavourful cuisine. Street and hawker food practically line the streets, and there are also large open-air food courts to sample different dishes under one roof. Some of the most popular food to try here are signature Penang Assam Laksa (a Chinese-Malay infused a sour and spicy noodle soup), Nasi Lemak (a coconut-based rice preparation), Otak-Otak (fishcake dish), Cendol (a sticky-sweet dessert) and Roti Chanai among a plethora of other delicacies.
Sarawak Cultural Village : The Sarawak Cultural Village is a unique living museum aimed at preserving the cultural heritage of Sarawak state. It offers a perfect introduction to local cultures and lifestyles. Here visitors can find replicas of buildings that represent the Bidayuh, Iban, Orang Ulu, Penan, Melanau, Malay and Chinese ethnic groups. The local people demonstrate traditional activities of Sarawak’s diverse tribes like making of handicrafts and the processing of sago. There is a theatre where you can enjoy multicultural dance performances. The cultural village also hosts theme dinners, nightly ceremonies and traditional weddings.
Take a tour of the mosques : Islam is one of the main religions in Malaysia, and no wonder several mosques also serve as places of worship for the majority Muslim community. Some of the prominent mosques here are National Mosque of Malaysia (aka Masjid Negara), Masjid Jamek (aka Friday Mosque), Putra Mosque, Friday Territory Mosque, and many more. If you are a visitor and curious about Islamic culture in Malaysia, then these mosques are the best place to find your answers.
Melaka (Malacca) : This historical city centre of Malaysia, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was the location of the earliest Malay Sultanates, which was later abolished by the Portuguese. The laid back, the old town of Malacca has a richly diverse history discovered through the Portuguese forts, colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, mosques, churches and temples. You can also browse through the antique curios shops and independent art galleries.
Watersports in Malaysia
Whether you are looking for family-friendly activities or some serious adrenaline-pumping activities, Malaysia has got you covered with all water adventures. With its pristine beaches and rushing rivers, Malaysia is an ideal holiday destination to indulge in water sports. Snorkelling, windsurfing, jet skiing and kayaking are some of the famous highlights here. Some of the best coral reefs in the South China Sea can be seen in Malaysia’s east coast, great for snorkelling.
Scuba Diving : Scuba diving is one of the most popular water activities to do while holidaying in Malaysia. Perhentian Island, Sipadan Island, Mataking Island, Mabul Island are some of the best places for scuba diving here. Sharks and turtles are a common sight along with a variety of fish and coral species on these islands.
Snorkelling : Malaysia’s tropical islands are popular snorkelling sites with beautiful reefs. The best locations for snorkelling in Malaysia are Langkawi Island, Tioman Island and Perhentian Island.
Sea Walking : If you lack diving or swimming abilities but still want to experience life underwater, sea walking is your best bet. It is perfect for the whole family and the kids. TARP (Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park) in Sabah is your best place to go for this underwater adventure.
White-water rafting : An excellent rafting destination in Malaysia is the Kampak River in Perak. It boasts 14 rapids of Class I and II. For a more family-friendly destination, Sungkai River is excellent for amateurs and beginners.
Kayaking : For a thrilling kayaking experience in Malaysia, head for mangrove kayaking in Langkawi. Kayaking can be a great arm workout, but it doesn’t have to be just that especially in Langkawi where you won’t even feel the arms at work because you’ll be busy admiring the scenery and looking out for wildlife. Other places to try kayaking in Malaysia are Merapuh, Kuching, and Seribuat Archipelago.
Popular attractions in Malaysia
Some of the attractions in Malaysia are often included in almost all tour itineraries of Malaysia tour packages. From man-made marvels to natural wonders and wildlife, one cannot miss the sights and activities below.
Petronas Towers : No Malaysia tour is complete without visiting the iconic Petronas towers. Located in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, these twin towers are the true modern architectural marvels. One of the most breathtaking experiences at Petronas Towers is to walk over the world’s highest two-storey bridge that joins the two towers.
Langkawi Sky Bridge : Another engineering marvel in Malaysia, which every Malaysia holiday packages include as a major tour highlight is the Sky Bridge in Langkawi. It is a 125 m long curved pedestrian suspension bridge at an altitude of 700 m that offers exhilarating views of the mountains, forests, seas and, and several islets around Langkawi. Located at the peak of Mt. Mat Cincang, one need to take the cable car ride to reach the bridge.
Batu Caves : A Malaysian national treasure, Hindu pilgrimage site and wildlife conservation zone, Batu caves is a limestone hill. Its main highlight is the massive statue of Tamil Hindu deity Murugan. Behind the figure, 272 steps lead to these limestone hill caves that house the temples.
Underwater World : Malaysia’s largest aquarium, the Underwater World in Langkawi houses more a wide variety of marine mammals and fish. At its 15 metre long underwater glass tunnel walkway visitors can enjoy an up-close view of sharks, harbour seals, giant stingrays, green turtles, rockhopper penguins and the massive Amazonian Arapaima (world’s biggest freshwater fish). Other highlights inside include a cafe, a 3D theatre, a souvenir shop and an educational resource centre. The complex is divided into themed sections on Tropical Rainforest, Temperate, Sub-Antarctic, Ponds, Corals and so on.
Spend time with elephants at the Kuala Gandah Elephant
Orphanage Sanctuary : A rare and fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with the endemic Malaysian elephants. Here, you are allowed to feed, to touch elephant trunks and take a photograph with these gentle giants. There are also opportunities to take the elephants down to the river and bath them. It is a safe sanctuary for the displaced elephants, which have been rescued from all over Peninsula Malaysia.
When to visit Malaysia
Malaysia is an equatorial tropical destination, and the variations in weather don’t differ much, and you can expect a consistently hot and humid climate throughout the year. The temperature here ranges between 26 degree Celsius to 28 degree Celsius. Malaysia’s western coast experiences its wet season from April to October, and the usually brief thundershowers bring relief from the humidity. The eastern coast experiences rainy season from October to March and has more torrential downpours than the west. And, the best time to visit Malaysia for sightseeing is between November to March when it has the least amount of rain. If you want to explore the beaches on the east coast of Malaysia, then plan your holiday anytime between March to September. While to visit the beaches on the west coast, travel from November to May.
How to reach Malaysia
If you are travelling to Malaysia, it is best if you book a flight from India. Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is Malaysia’s busiest airport and one of the leading international airports in South East Asia. There are frequent flights from India to Kuala Lumpur. You can take flights from Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Kolkata, Jaipur, Amritsar to reach Kuala Lumpur operated by airlines such as AirAsia, AirAsia X, IndiGo, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air.
Also get more information and exclusive deals on popular Malaysia Theme Packages like Malaysia Honeymoon Packages, Malaysia Family Packages, Malaysia Beach Packages, etc.
