Malaysia is a beautiful country, full of diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty. From beaches to islands, mountains to rainforests, there are plenty of places to explore in this country. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous holiday, or a cultural experience, Malaysia has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the 16 beautiful places to visit in Malaysia, discussing what to do and see, how to get there, and the best time to go. So, let’s dive in and take a look at what this wonderful country has to offer!
1) Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, or KL as the locals call it, is the capital of Malaysia and a must-see destination. This vibrant city offers an exciting mix of culture, entertainment, shopping, and history. There are plenty of things to do in KL; from visiting iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers to discovering street food in the numerous hawker centers. Shopping malls are found all around the city, and for a taste of traditional Malay culture, take a tour around the Batu Caves.
- The best time to visit KL: in the dry season, which runs from April to October, for the best experience.
2) Genting Highlands
Located in the Titiwangsa Mountains, Genting Highlands is one of the most popular destinations in Malaysia. With its natural beauty, exciting rides, and casinos, it has something for everyone. There are plenty of things to do here, like visit the Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, Snow World, and shop in the First World Plaza.
- How to go: Visitors can also take the cable car up to the peak of the mountains.
- The best time to visit Genting Highlands: is during the cooler months from April to August.
3) Penang
Penang is a beautiful island off the west coast of Malaysia, famed for its delicious street food, eclectic architecture, and vibrant nightlife. The capital, Georgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers plenty of attractions, including historical temples, museums, and galleries. There are beaches, caves, and mangroves to explore, as well as a large selection of seafood restaurants and food stalls.
- Things to do in Penang: include taking a tour of the Peranakan culture, trekking around Penang Hill, visiting the local markets, and, exploring George Town’s street art.
- How do get there? Penang can be easily accessed by air from most cities in Malaysia and beyond.
- The best time to visit: is during the months of March to September when the weather is dry, and temperatures are milder.
4) Langkawi
Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands situated off the northwest coast of mainland Malaysia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rain, rest, and cultural attractions. There are plenty of things to do here such as swimming, snorkeling, jungle trekking, and exploring ancient caves. There are also cultural attractions like the Mahsuri Mausoleum and the Eagle Square.
- The best way to reach Langkawi: is by ferry from Kuala Kedah or Penang.
- The best time to visit Langkawi: is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family holiday, Langkawi has something for everyone.
5) Malacca
Situated on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Malacca is a historical city renowned for its rich heritage and culture. It is home to several attractions, such as the Malacca Sultanate Palace, the Famosa Fort, and Bthe aba Nyonya Museum. Visitors can explore these attractions to get an insight into the city’s unique past. Additionally, there are plenty of shopping opportunities in Malacca’s many malls and markets. Other activities in the city include biking tours, river cruises, and sightseeing.
- The best time to visit Malacca: is during the dry season from April to August when temperatures are milder.
- To get here: visitors can take a train or bus from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
6) Pahang
Pahang is a state located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is known for its stunning rainforest-covered mountains, world-famous beaches, and unique wildlife. There are many places to explore in Pahang, such as the beautiful Cameron Highlands, Tioman Island, Cherating Beach, and Genting Highlands.
- Things to do in Pahang: include hiking, fishing, scuba diving, beach activities, and exploring the local culture and cuisine.
- The best time to visit Pahang: is during the dry season from April to October.
- To get to Pahang: travelers can take a bus or train from Kuala Lumpur or other major cities in Malaysia.
7) Perak
Perak is a Malaysian state located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is a popular tourist destination due to its many attractions, including picturesque beaches, mountains, and nature parks. It is also renowned for its historical sites, such as cave temples and palaces.
- Things to do: Adventure seekers can explore the Royal Belum State Park, go whitewater rafting in the Kampar River, and trek through the Kinta Valley.
There are also plenty of cultural activities to enjoy, such as visiting ancient cave temples like Gua Tempurung and Gua Telinga. - How to go: Perak is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The closest airport is Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, which connects it to most major cities in Malaysia.
- The best time to visit: The best time to visit Perak is between April and October when temperatures are cooler. This is also when you can see the various flora and fauna that make up this beautiful region.
8) Selangor
Selangor is a Malaysian state located along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and offers a wealth of attractions and activities. With its modern capital of Kuala Lumpur, there’s something for everyone. There are exciting night markets, grand shopping malls, jungle trekking, and many historical sites.
- Things to do: In Selangor, you can visit iconic locations such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Bukit Tabur, I-City, and Sepang International Circuit. Other attractions include hiking trails in Royal Belum State Park, visiting Batu Caves, and relaxing on the beaches of Bagan Lalang.
- How to go: Selangor can be reached easily by car, bus, or train from other cities in Malaysia. You can also take a domestic flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
- The best time to visit: The best time to visit Selangor is from April to October, when the weather is dry and sunny. The monsoon season, from November to March, can be quite wet and humid.
9) Terengganu
Terengganu is a coastal state located in Malaysia’s east coast. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and offers a great range of outdoor activities. Some of the popular attractions include Perhentian Islands, Endau-Rompin National Park, Tasik Kenyir, Kuala Terengganu, and Pulau Redang.
- Things to do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, trekking, sailing, fishing, jungle exploring, island hopping, and birdwatching.
- How to go: The best way to reach Terengganu is by air or road.
The Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu serves domestic and international flights. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from the capital city, Kuala Lumpur. - The best time to visit: The best time to visit Terengganu is during the dry season from February to April when temperatures are cooler. The monsoon season from October to December should be avoided due to the risk of floods.
10) Johor
Johor is the southernmost state of Peninsular Malaysia, located close to Singapore. It’s the perfect place for a vacation, with beautiful beaches, historical sites, and great shopping. Visitors can explore the fascinating Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque or take a stroll along the attractive town center of Muar.
The Kota Tinggi Waterfalls are especially spectacular, and you can also visit Gunung Ledang National Park. For beach lovers, there are plenty of stunning spots around Pulau Rawa and Tanjung Piai.
- The best time to visit: April to October is the best time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny. There are several ways to get to Johor from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, such as flying, taking the bus or train, or even by boat.
- How to go: No matter how you get there, it will be an unforgettable experience.
11) Kedah
Kedah, located in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia, is one of the most popular destinations among tourists. It is a great place to visit due to its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy exploring the bustling cities such as Alor Setar and Kulim, marveling at the picturesque Gunung Jerai mountain range, and visiting the ancient archaeological site at Bujang Valley.
- Things to do in Kedah: include visiting the spectacular Langkawi islands, exploring the captivating rice fields of Padang Terap, admiring the waterfalls of Kota Baharu, and swimming in the secluded beaches of Tanjung Dawai.
- How to go: Getting to Kedah is easy with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur and other parts of the country.
- The best time to visit Kedah: is during the dry season (from April to October). During this period, temperatures are more pleasant and there is less rainfall.
12) Kelantan
Located in northeastern Malaysia, Kelantan is a charming destination with tropical beaches, ancient mosques, and scenic waterfalls. It is known as the “Land of Lightning” and for its distinctive cuisine and culture.
- Things to do: Visit the Istana Jahar Museum, take a boat ride along the Kelantan River, explore the War Museum, and relax on the beach at Pantai Cahaya Bulan.
- How to go: The best way to get to Kelantan is by car, as there are many highways that go through the state. Alternatively, you can fly to Kota Bharu Airport or take a bus from other Malaysian cities.
- The best time to go: The best time to visit Kelantan is between March and April when the temperature is cooler, and the humidity is lower.
13) Negeri Sembilan
This small state in the southwest of Peninsular Malaysia is known for its majestic beauty, lush greenery, and picturesque beaches. There are several attractions to explore, including the Sri Menanti Royal Museum, the Rantau Abang Turtle Sanctuary, and the Gunung Datuk National Park. Tourists can also experience local culture and visit the unique wooden Minangkabau villages.
- Things to do: sightseeing, trekking, birdwatching, swimming, shopping, visiting cultural sites.
- How to go: By car or bus from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
- The best time to go: is from April to October when the weather is generally dry, and temperatures are mild.
14) Sarawak
Sarawak is a state in Malaysia known for its lush jungles and unique wildlife. Sarawak is also home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world and is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
- Things to do: The many attractions in Sarawak include visiting the local longhouses, exploring Gunung Mulu National Park, visiting the magnificent Semenggoh Nature Reserve, or going river rafting on the Batang Rejang. You can also visit the beautiful Batang Ai National Park, go caving at Niah National Park, explore the Similajau National Park, and admire the Bako National Park.
- How to go: You can easily get to Sarawak by plane or boat. The main airports are in Kuching, Miri, and Sibu, and you can reach these cities from Kuala Lumpur by direct flights. You can also take ferries from Singapore, Brunei, or Indonesia to Sarawak’s coastal cities such as Kuching, Miri, and Sibu.
- The best time to go: The best time to visit Sarawak is during the dry season (May-August) when it is usually sunny and warm. During this period, the humidity is low and there are fewer chances of rain. This is also a great time to go trekking and explore the many national parks in Sarawak.
15) Sabah
Sabah is a stunning state located in the north of Borneo. It boasts untouched rainforests, beautiful beaches, and incredible wildlife. Things to do in Sabah include trekking through the rainforest, scuba diving in Sipadan Island, exploring the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, and sampling local delicacies.
- How to go to Sabah: You can get to Sabah by plane, train, or ferry.
- The best time to visit: is from April to October when the weather is mild and dry.
16) Sipadan Island
Located off the coast of Borneo in Malaysia, Sipadan Island is one of the top diving spots in the world. With its crystal clear waters and incredible marine life, this beautiful island is perfect for diving enthusiasts. The coral gardens offer an unforgettable experience with its multitude of tropical fish, turtles, sharks, and rays. There are also several walking trails around the island that lead to some of the most stunning beaches in the region.
- The best time to visit Sipadan Island: is from April to October, when the water is warmest and visibility is at its highest.
16 Beautiful Places to Visit in Malaysia and Best Times to Visit Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur
- Genting Highlands
- Penang
- Langkawi
- Malacca
- Pahang
- Perak
- Selangor
- Terengganu
- Johor
- Kedah
- Kelantan
- Negeri Sembilan
- Sarawak
- Sabah
- Sipadan Island
Conclusion
Malaysia is a beautiful country with plenty of wonderful places to visit. From the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur to the tropical island of Langkawi, Malaysia offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a beach vacation, an adventure in the rainforest, or a cultural exploration, you can find it here. With its friendly locals and stunning landscape, Malaysia is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
