Highlights of Peninsular Malaysia

Itinerary

• Day 1: Kuala Lumpur, Arrival

  Fly into Malaysia's metropolitan capital of Kuala Lumpur, and transfer to your comfortable hotel to check in. The remainder of today is yours to relax and recover from jet lag.

  • Kuala Lumpur

• Day 2: Kuala Lumpur City Tour

  Your half-day discovery of the capital city includes Masjid Negara, which features a striking 16-pointed star roof, symbolizing Malaysian unity. Capture the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of 88-story skyscrapers, before passing the Federal Court's Moorish-style architecture, the elegant Old Railway Station, the Tudor-style Cricket Club, and the stunning King's Palace with its gold-domed roofs and minarets. Continue to explore Thean Hou Temple, a breathtaking six-tiered Buddhist sanctuary dedicated to the sea goddess. Set in a tranquil environment, the temple offers panoramic city views and showcases Malaysia's rich heritage.

  Enjoy a free afternoon to discover the city at your own pace. You might wish to visit the nearby Kuala Lumpur Tower for a stunning view of the city, or take a leisurely walk through the lush KLCC Park. If you're in the mood for shopping, Bukit Bintang offers a wealth of malls and boutiques.

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  • Kuala Lumpur

• Day 3: Historical Malacca Day Trip From Kuala Lumpur

  In the morning, set off to explore the vibrant multicultural heritage of UNESCO-listed Malacca, about 150 km from Kuala Lumpur. Start at Dutch Square, you'll admire the Stadthuys, one of the oldest surviving Dutch buildings in the East, and the iconic Christ Church, known for its striking red facade. Don't miss the Victoria Memorial Fountain and the historic Malacca Clock Tower.

  Next, visit Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Malaysia's oldest functioning Chinese temple established in 1645, and Porta de Santiago, the gateway to the Portuguese fortress built in 1511. From there, head to the ruins of St. Paul's Church, where the missionary St. Francis Xavier was once buried.

  After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, stroll through Jonker Street, captivated by various delicious street food, traditional snacks, and unique handicrafts. End your day with a return to Kuala Lumpur for an overnight stay.

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  • Kuala Lumpur

• Day 4: Kuala Lumpur - Taman Negara

  After breakfast, continue your journey to Taman Negara National Park, overland past the pristine landscapes at Jerantut. Once there, take a leisurely cruise along the meandering river deep into the enclosed area, only accessible by boat. Disembark and head over to your hotel. You are then free to relax for a few hours before venturing on a night jungle walk around 8:30 pm to spot nocturnal wildlife.

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  • Taman Negara

• Day 5: Taman Negara

  Today, start by exploring the park's pristine natural beauty with a morning jungle trek to Bukit Teresek. Walk along scenic trails through a canopy of trees and colorful flora, and you will then expect to see an array of indigenous wildlife on your next 45-minute hike to the Canopy Walkway (closed on Friday). Then, challenge yourself with a walk through a series of rope bridges over 400 meters long, while enjoying a panoramic view of the surroundings. Return to your hotel for lunch, and embark on an exciting afternoon excursion to Lata Berkoh. Hop aboard a boat to reach the cascading rapids on Sungai Tahan, which invites you to take a refreshing dip in the clear pools or relax by the riverbank to recuperate after one day's adventure.

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  • Taman Negara

• Day 6: Taman Negara - Cameron Highlands

  We recommend waking up early to witness a serene sunrise from the observation deck before enjoying breakfast. After bidding farewell to the jungle, embark on a scenic drive to Cameron Highlands, often called Malaysia's Giant Green Carpet. At an altitude of 1,542 meters, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of sprawling tea plantations among lush hills. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the way. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take the time to explore the picturesque surroundings at your own pace.

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  • Cameron Highlands

• Day 7: Cameron Highlands

  Today, explore Cameron Highlands with an excursion to the Mossy Forest at Gunung Brinchang. Ride a Land Rover through rolling tea plantations up to 2,030 meters, taking in impressive views. On clear days, the panoramic vistas from the highest road-accessible mountain are spectacular. Take a guided walk through the Mossy Forest to reveal some exotic floras, including pitcher plants, orchids, and medicinal plants. If timing allows, enjoy a tour of the Sungai Palas 'BOH' Tea Factory to sample local teas. Spend the rest of the day exploring the highlands at your leisure.

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  • Cameron Highlands

• Day 8: Cameron Highlands - Penang

  Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and some free time to soak in the beautiful surroundings. Later, depart from Cameron Highlands for Penang.

  The journey includes Ipoh, a historic town that has grown from a quiet village to Malaysia's fourth-largest city. Wander through the old town, stopping by landmarks such as the old Railway Station, Town Hall, Birch Memorial, and St. Michael's Institution. Pause for lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Kuala Kangsar, where you'll have photo stops at the striking Ubudiah Mosque, Iskandariah Palace, and Istana Kenangan Museum.

  Arrive in Penang by late afternoon and settle into your hotel in Georgetown, ready to discover the "Pearl of the Orient".

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  • Penang

• Day 9: Penang

  Discover the captivating architectural styles of Penang that reflect the island's rich history on this half-day tour. Begin at Dharmikarama Burmese Temple and Wat Chayamangklaram, home to an impressive reclining Buddha statue. Later, delve into the colonial past at the Colonial Penang Museum, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of wealthy merchants.

  Enjoy some retail therapy at Cocoa Boutique, then explore the heritage zone featuring charming colonial buildings and the historic Fort Cornwallis, built by the British East India Company. Stroll past the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower and along the Clan Jetty, with stilt houses lining the waterfront. The tour wraps up with a scenic drive through the "Street of Harmony," showcasing a church, a Chinese temple, a mosque, and a Hindu temple in nearness.

  This afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your own leisure.

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  • Penang

• Day 10: Penang, Tropical Spice Garden With Cooking Class

  Another wonderful day unfolds as you head out to the Tropical Spice Garden, which boasts over 500 species of herb, spice, and tropical plants tucked within a jungle valley. Wander around the garden and get to know some of the ingredients to be used in the cooking class, before trying your hands at authentic local dishes under the guidance of professional chefs. After cooking, enjoy your creations for lunch.

  The rest of the day is yours to explore. Consider spending the evening strolling along Gurney Drive or Queen Street, where you can savor a diverse array of Malaysian street food.

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  • Penang

• Day 11: Penang, Departure

  Spend your final morning at leisure, and transfer to the airport in time for the next leg of your journey, either home or to your next destination.

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