The 15 top experiences to enjoy in Malaysia

Unsure whether to explore dive sites, relax on tropical beaches, hike through mountains, or discover trendy cityscapes? Worry no more – Malaysia offers a fantastic variety of activities to choose from. 

This Southeast Asian country boasts a remarkable diversity of landscapes, cultures, and cuisines. In urban areas, minarets, temples, and Chinese pagodas coexist with futuristic skyscrapers. Outside the cities lie lush rainforests, towering mountains, and stunning beaches.

From Peninsular Malaysia to the island of Borneo, traditional arts, crafts, and culinary delights thrive – even as cities rush to embrace modern architectural and culinary trends. Here are 15 of the most essential experiences in Malaysia.

1. Enjoy tea at its origin in the Cameron Highlands

Long ago, British colonists in Malaysia sought cooler retreats from the sweltering heat, establishing hill stations that gave rise to a tea industry. The most renowned are in the Cameron Highlands, where today mostly tourists (both local and international) come to escape the humidity of the lowlands.

At elevations ranging from 1300m to 1829m (4265ft to 6000ft), you'll find plenty of hiking trails, along with strawberry farms and souvenir shops to spend a few ringgit. However, the true essence of the Cameron Highlands lies in enjoying a bronze-hued cup of tea while gazing at the sprawling tea plantations below. 

Travel tip: Boh Sungei Palas not only offers stunning emerald vistas but also has informative exhibits on the tea-making process. Alternatively, you can visit the picturesque tea house at Cameron Valley Tea House or the more remote Boh Tea Garden, which provides guided tours. You're bound to discover an experience that suits you (...to a T).

2. Ascend to the enchanting Batu Caves

Towering limestone cliffs loom above, leading to a daunting staircase of 272 steps. At the top, you are greeted by the imposing golden figure of the Hindu deity, Lord Murugan.

First-time visitors to Malaysia will vividly remember their exhilarating climb to Batu Caves, along with the mischievous macaques that surround them. This popular day trip from Kuala Lumpur (just 13km/8 miles away, easily accessible by train) attracts numerous repeat visitors as well. Tourists, devotees, and locals alike flock to this natural marvel and spiritual site. 

This stunning limestone cave complex features captivating temples, each adorned with dioramas depicting mythical tales. The central Temple Cave has served as a Hindu shrine since 1890. After exploring its expansive chambers, venture across a small bridge to the serene Ramayana Cave, where dioramas bring to life the celebrated Sanskrit epic of duty and virtue.

Travel tip: If you aren't deterred by the usual crowds, consider visiting during the Thaipusam Festival (late January or early February) when throngs of devotees gather at the caves, some engaging in ritual piercings – an immersive and unforgettable experience awaits.

3. Dine at the top food markets in George Town, Penang

The capital of Penang island is a canvas of street art, filled with British colonial architecture and brimming with shops offering arts and crafts. But before exploring these George Town highlights, pay attention to your rumbling stomach. The best experiences in Penang revolve around indulging in food and drinks – and the state capital boasts the most extravagant feast.

In a city bursting with food markets, chic cafes, and everything in between, the only challenge is deciding where to start. Our ideal menu includes chicken curry at the historic Indian eatery Hameediyah, slurping Hokkien mee (noodles) at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls, and following the aroma of grilled satay skewers and zesty rojak salad at Anjung Gurney Night Market. Other must-try dishes include the spicy, fishy Penang laksa and char kway teow, rice noodles stir-fried with large prawns (some of the finest can be found at Kafe Heng Huat).

Travel tip: Make sure to leave space for dessert (or two!). Savor delicious gateaux at China House while the vibrant displays of kuih nyonya (colorful rice and coconut cakes) from the markets will tempt you to indulge.

4. Dive or snorkel in the pristine Perhentian Islands

Culture, check. Cuisine, check. Malaysia ranks among Asia's top honeymoon destinations, particularly the Perhentian Islands, where crystal-clear waters kiss golden beaches. 

But hold off on dozing in your sun chair just yet. Pulau Perhentian reveals even greater wonders beneath the waves. Snorkelers can explore coral reefs just off the beach (try Teluk Pauh and Shark Point on the main island). For a deeper adventure, don a wetsuit and dive alongside green sea turtles, barracuda, and vibrant reef inhabitants like yellow boxfish. 

The Perhentians offer a tranquil (and relatively affordable) setting to take a PADI course before practicing your skills with local nurse sharks (which are harmless). More seasoned divers can embark on trips to the MV Union Star. This sunken freighter, known as the 'Sugar Wreck' due to its cargo, now attracts stingrays and scorpionfish amid its rusting remains.

5. Conquer the breathtaking peak of Mt Kinabalu

As the tallest mountain on Borneo, Gunung Kinabalu holds the title of Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. From below, this towering summit (4095m/13,435ft) is awe-inspiring, standing far above its neighbors in the Crocker mountain range. However, the experience from the peak of Mt Kinabalu is truly celestial. 

What do you have to endure for this heavenly view? A challenging climb of approximately 8.7km (5.4 miles) each way. Yet, each segment of the trek (spanning two days) reveals new natural wonders. The rugged steps and rocky trails take you higher above the tree line, past lunar-like rock formations, alpine grasslands, and lush carpets of ferns, rhododendrons, and bamboo. At Panalaban (3272m/10,735ft), you’ll rest in a hostel for the night… or at least for a few restless hours, as you’ll be up early to catch the sunrise from the jagged granite summit. 

Travel tip: The best time for climbing is from March to August, which is the dry season. Daily climbing permits are limited, and you must ascend with a guide.

6. Take a trishaw ride through the historic streets of Malacca

Trishaws: a thrilling, traffic-navigating, three-wheeled mode of transport. For some, they’re a fun ride; for others, a chaotic experience. But in Malacca City (also known as Melaka), trishaws are truly extraordinary. 

This historic port city boasts the most extravagant trishaws, decked out with neon Hello Kitty designs, the Frozen logo, and lighting systems that could guide lost vessels. Adorned with flowers, tinsel, and imitation logos, over 300 flamboyant trishaws operate in Malacca, with some providing historical tours.

While riding a trishaw, you may glide past the Sultanate Palace and the striking silhouette of the replica Flor de la Mar. You’ll cruise through Dutch Square, flanked by charming pink buildings like Christ Church. As the sun sets, your trishaw will sparkle with fairy lights, lanterns, and neon signs – making it impossible to resist capturing a selfie.

7. Embark on a hike through Taman Negara

Reality check: despite Malaysia's stunning natural beauty, the country grapples with significant environmental issues, including the encroachment of palm plantations into forested areas. This makes the remaining pristine landscapes like Taman Negara even more invaluable.

Taman Negara, literally meaning 'National Park', spans 4,343 sq km (1,676 sq miles) of ancient, protected wilderness across Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu. Its rainforest, dating back 130 million years, ranks among the oldest globally (only surpassed by Australia's Daintree), and its trails immerse you in the vibrant sounds of the jungle.

Tiny katydids buzz through the underbrush, macaques chatter overhead, and hornbills snap their beaks above. With a bit of luck, you might spot a gaur—an Asian bison with a distinctive hairstyle. If you’re exceptionally fortunate, a tiger, elephant, or the elusive Malayan peacock-pheasant may cross your path. 

Planning tip: No matter your luck in wildlife spotting, be sure to walk the 45m-high (148ft) canopy walkway, enjoy a firefly boat ride, or join a nighttime hike to discover the creatures that come alive after dark.

8. Experience the mesmerizing bat flight at the mysterious Mulu Caves

Borneo is a paradise where rainforests and coral reefs burst with life. Among its many wonders, Gunung Mulu stands out as a must-see destination. 

In this national park, jagged limestone peaks create a dramatic backdrop for ancient rainforests, winding streams, and vast caverns. The highlight of your visit will be witnessing the sky darken as bats swarm out of Deer Cave. Up to three million bats inhabit these damp chambers, performing aerial maneuvers that confound hawks waiting for a meal.

Planning tip: Join tours that lead you through Deer Cave and the twisting stalactites of nearby Lang Cave, then find a spot outside to witness this incredible aerial display around 5pm.

9. Escape to a secluded jungle island in Royal Belum State Park

What does it mean to truly disconnect in our smartphone era? Experience it firsthand on a private island in Royal Belum State Park, nestled in the northern reaches of Peninsular Malaysia's Belum-Temenggor Rainforest.

As you glide to the resort by longboat, your buzzing phone will drift into silence. Instead of distractions, enjoy refreshing swims from the island's jetty, sleep in a cozy A-frame tent, and rise to catch sight of ten hornbill species soaring above. Guided jungle hikes will lead you to the impressive rafflesia flowers, while you keep an eye out for elephant tracks in the mud. 

10. Participate in a cooking class in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is a melting pot of flavors, showcasing vibrant cuisines from Malay, Peranakan, Indian, and Chinese traditions, each with unique local variations. Don't miss trying Penang's laksa, Ipoh's chicken with beansprouts, and a wide range of cendol (a refreshing dessert made with coconut milk). Colonial influences from the Dutch, British, and Portuguese have also enriched this culinary tapestry.

While some flavors may remain a chef's secret, you can bring a taste of Malaysia home by participating in a cooking class. Kuala Lumpur is an ideal destination, offering a variety of classes where expert chefs will teach you to prepare dishes like prawn fritters, nasi lemak (coconut rice with various accompaniments), and renowned beef rendang.

Planning tip: LaZat Malaysian Home Cooking, established in 2007, features a rotating menu that includes classic dishes such as char kway teow, aromatic kapitan chicken, and sago pudding. 

11. Experience diving with turtles at Sipadan Island

Malaysia is home to several marine wonders, but Sipadan stands out for its remoteness and natural beauty. This former volcanic island is surrounded by thriving coral reefs, while its white-sand beaches offer minimal shade from palm trees. Underwater, you'll encounter a parade of marine life, including big-eye trevallies, hammerhead sharks, and two types of turtles—green and hawksbill. It's common to spot a dozen turtles during a single dive!

Planning tip: Reaching Sipadan requires some dedication: after arriving in Malaysian Borneo, you'll need to transfer to Tawau or take a bus to Semporna. From there, you can take a day trip to the island, but keep in mind that overnight stays are not permitted on Sipadan itself.

12. Search for bearded pigs in Bako National Park

In Sarawak, Bako National Park offers a glimpse of much of Borneo's diverse wildlife: thick jungles, playful monkeys, stealthy water monitors, and vibrant orchids sprouting from the forest floor. With over 190 species of birds flitting through the air, Bako is also the oldest national park in Sarawak.

What sets this place apart? First, the striking sea stacks that create a stunning profile, shaped by the relentless forces of water (view them from Pandan Kecil beach). Secondly, the chance to encounter bearded pigs, with their fuzzy bodies and scruffy snouts, offering a delightful and rugged sight. 

Planning tip: For the best opportunity to spot wildlife, consider staying overnight. Join a night walk led by a knowledgeable guide who can help you find them. 

13. Encounter incredible apes in Sepilok, Borneo 

Since we share about 97% of our DNA with orangutans, why not visit these distant relatives? Use Sepilok as your base: at the 43 sq km (17 sq mile) Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, you can witness these furry creatures swing into sight. The center pairs young orangutans with older ones to teach them survival skills before their release into the wild.

Afterward, visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, just a short drive away. You'll hear their loud thumps as they hurry along the wooden boardwalk during feeding time. Their large noses and round bellies give them a quirky charm that is reminiscent of us humans! 

Enhance your wildlife adventures by visiting the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, where you can meet Southeast Asia's smallest bears. There are 43 adorable honey-loving bears being cared for here.

14. Enjoy a bird's eye view on Langkawi Island

Langkawi is the ultimate vacation paradise, featuring golden beaches and lush jungles. The best way to take in its beauty? Ascend to new heights.

Take the SkyCab to Gunung Machinchang (713m/2339ft), where the stunning Langkawi Sky Bridge awaits; or drive up to Gunung Raya at 881m (2890ft) for breathtaking views. For a more thrilling experience, try zip-lining through the geopark's canopy, feeling the breeze as you soar and perhaps surprising a few hornbills along the way.

15. Admire a magnificent mosque in Kuala Kangsar

Malaysia is adorned with stunning mosques, ranging from Mughal-era masterpieces to contemporary designs, but one mosque truly stands out for its breathtaking splendor: Masjid Ubudiah in the rugged Perak region. Created by renowned architect AB Hubback, the mosque features magnificent gold domes and Italian marble, offering a feast for the eyes. It’s not the only architectural gem in the area; explore Muzium Diraja Kuala Kangsar and the Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah for more grandeur.