Top 12 Things to Do in Malaysia

When it comes to Malaysia, it is a holiday paradise that most people long for. So, what's the charm of Malaysia? The answer is there are beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, unique culture, and even a bustling downtown.

If you are new here and want to experience the most authentic Malaysia, here are the top 12 things you must do to immerse yourself in this fantastic nation.

Appreciate Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital, is considered the most vibrant city in the area, and many visitors are familiar with it because of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. As a result, if you visit Kuala Lumpur, you must view this magnificent structure.

The Petronas Twin Towers stand 451.9 meters tall and feature 88 stories. It has been regarded as the world's highest skyscraper for the past ten years.

The magnificent Suria KLCC shopping center here may captivate you and make you want to shop nonstop. Furthermore, if you want to take in the panoramic view, it is advised that you visit the observation platform at the top of the tower, especially at night, when the lights will make you sigh.

Head over to the aerial bridge between the 41st and 42nd floors if you're looking for a thrilling experience, and push yourself with the night light show that will add to this impressive skyscraper.

The Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur

Explore the Mysterious Batu Caves

Batu Caves, located in Kuala Lumpur, is another renowned tourist site. The most popular attraction here is the natural scenery, which includes a series of natural caverns constructed of limestone, with 272 stairs to reach the main cave. A 140-meter-high gold-plated statue of Lord Murugan, the great Indian Buddha and deity of war, stands next to the lengthy stairs.

Many Hindu devotees visit this pilgrimage site, which features tall Hindu monuments and a network of cave temples at the foot of the mountain with Hindu statues and murals. A large number of Hindu followers flock here to pray, especially around the Thaipusam holiday, and the scene is frightening. You should take in the sights if you're going to Kuala Lumpur.

Lord Murugan, Batu Caves

Enjoy Beach Time in Langkawi

Langkawi is the largest island in Malaysia, located on the Thai border. The island has many beautiful beaches, the most popular of which is Tengah Beach, the longest beach. You can lie on the beach to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, sea fishing, and doing other activities.

In addition, the island has various attractions to visit as a group, such as the Mahsuri Mausoleum, a boat tour of the Kilim National Park to see the mangrove forest, and so on. The most popular pastime, of course, is island hopping. Traveling across the islands by cruise exposes what makes each island unique and what various vistas it offers. If a cruise tour doesn't satisfy you, the jet-ski is the most excellent way to explore the entire islands of Langkawi, with views that appear like they're from a brilliant watercolor painting.

Beach of Langkawi

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Climb the Mount Kinabalu

Mountain Kinabalu, Malaysia's tallest mountain, is also on the World Heritage List, having a total elevation of 4095m. The route to the top is quite safe. Though the mountain is high, the climb will not be very hard.

Reaching the peak usually takes two days, but you may camp midway and enjoy the night sky. Wait till the following day, practically with the dawn peak; the gorgeous panorama is unimpeded, accompanied by fresh air, and offers a stunning view of the entire state of Sabah. Beautiful natural sights, such as Carson Waterfalls, may be found during the ascent.

Taste the Delicacies at Penang Street Markets

Many Malaysian cities have many different types of food, but the most famous place is Penang. Here you will experience a lively night market atmosphere, and, of course, the main thing is a variety of food. The streets are filled with the shouts of sellers selling, giving you a sense of Malaysia's unique culinary culture.

Chulia Street Hawker Center and Kimberley Street Food Night Market are Penang's most well-known night marketplaces. The most authentic Malaysian cuisines, such as Laksa, Satay Chicken, Curry, Nasi Lemak, and Hainanese Chicken Rice etc., can all be found. They'll be a fantastic delight for you.

Malay Laksa

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Explore the Street Art of George Town

George Town in Penang is also worth a visit. This former British colony is unlike any other Malaysian town. Here, you can see the modern arts and old buildings combine harmoniously. Walking along the street in George Town, you may observe numerous lifelike street art and take photographs.

Because of the mixing of many cultures, George Town also has many exotic features. For example, you may walk to Little India, the Indian community, and arriving here feels like coming to a genuine India, with street sales of everything linked to India, from apparel to spices. You may also climb the Komtar Tower at night and enjoy a stunning night view of George Town.

George Town, Penang

Get to Know Malacca's Culture

In southern Malaysia, Malacca was once Southeast Asia's most significant commercial port. It is also a former Portuguese, British, and Dutch colony with a rich history and numerous examples of European architecture.

When you visit Malacca, you will find many tourist attractions that are inextricably linked to Western culture, such as St. Peter's Church, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, and Stadthuys (Christ Church), which you can choose to visit on foot or by trishaw, and appreciate the architecture and local customs. The trishaw in Malacca is different from other countries for its colorful decorations.

Apart from the culture, Malacca's nightlife is best experienced on Jonker Street. Jonker Street, popularly known as the local Chinatown, is bustling at night, where you can sample food and buy unique handicrafts.

Night View in Malacca

Unwind in Perhentian Islands: Wonderful Water Activities

Perhentian Islands are located off the northeast coast of Malaysia, comprising mainly the Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecillaing Islands, attracting an increasing number of tourists due to their attractive surroundings, coral clusters, and abundant marine life.

Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular activities on the island, featuring azure seas, white sand beaches, and pleasant temperatures and sunshine. You can rent diving equipment on the island, and a specialized person will accompany you snorkeling, where you can observe colorful corals, tropical fish, and other species on the sea bottom. The stunning undersea scenery transports you to another dimension.

Watch Orangutans Play at Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center

The Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center in Sandakan, Borneo, is the greatest site to watch orangutans if you want to get up close and personal with them. It has been the world's largest orangutan rehabilitation center since its inception in 1964, and many wounded or homeless orangutans are treated and cared for until they are released back into the wild.

Every day at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., there is a platform for feeding, and the adorable orangutans will even copy your motions or watch them play. In addition to orangutans, the reserve has numerous birds and other species, and the natural reserve is ideal for trekking and enjoying nature.

Learn About the Unique Culture at Mari-Mari Cultural Village

Mari-Mari Cultural Village in Sabah is the greatest site to learn about the culture and history of Borneo, especially suitable for families. It is made up of five ethnic groups: the Kadazan-Dusun, who are rice farmers; the Rungus, who live in longhouses; the Lundayeh, who are hunters and fishermen; the cowboys and Bajau, who are sea gypsies; and the Murut, who are ferocious headhunters.

There is a lot of traditional home building here, and you may learn about the local way of life through colorful traditional activities, such as watching the process of producing a blowpipe, learning about the distinctive local tattoo art, and cooking with bamboo. Here, you may live in isolation and enjoy the most traditional way of living. Moreover, you can enjoy a relaxing time in the nearby Kiansom Waterfall after visiting the village.

Trek through the Pristine Jungle at Danum Valley

If you are up for an adventure in the rainforest, Danum Valley is just for you. It is one of the few existing pristine forests in the world. There are numerous colorful activities to enjoy here, including the flora, animals, and natural environment. You may travel through the canopy walkways, winding through the canopy and enjoying the vistas of the forest while walking on rope bridges. Or go on a night jungle excursion in a 4x4 off-road vehicle filled with exciting nocturnal animal activity.

Also, Danum Valley has some luxury lodges with distinctive cabin designs, such as open-air bathtubs for you to spend a unique night under the stars.

Borneo Forest in Danum Valley

Enjoy the Breathtaking Views in Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands, located in the northern state of Pahang, is one of Malaysia's most popular tourist destinations. There is an amazing view here, with the entire mountain being green. Because of the unique geographical setting, the temperature remains cool all year, making it a popular summer destination for many visitors.

It is Malaysia's most prominent tea-producing location, so you can learn about the tea-growing process and buy some souvenirs to take home. Also, if you enjoy eating fruit, you can visit the strawberry garden, where you can pick fresh strawberries and sample a variety of strawberry-related items such as strawberry jam, strawberry ice cream, and so on.

Tea Plantation, Cameron Highland

Start Planning Your Malaysia Tour with Odynovo

From the stunning beach landscape to the adventurous jungles and even the exciting night markets, all kinds of activities can be accomplished in Malaysia. With the assistance of Odynovo, your travel will not become monotonous but rather enjoyable. If you are ready to go, then contact us to start planning your perfect Malaysia tour!