Malaysia is truly Asia! You must have heard this line before in Malaysia. The reason is because Malaysia prides itself in cultural diversity. We have our three big ethnic groups. This is while being coupled with other minor ethnic groups. Now, isn’t that a country that just screams tourist spot. Wait a minutes! Today’s topic will discuss the top 10 famous tourist attractions in Malaysia.
This is country has a wide variety of everything. From the food industry to the travel industry. It has been heavily influenced by our major cultural diversity. This is definitely most evidently seen in our tourist attractions. Our tourist attractions cater for a wide variety of tourism purposes. If you are looking for heritage, we have it. If you are looking for modern aesthetic, we got it. We have it all, so without further due, here are our top 10 famous tourist attractions in Malaysia.
Petronas Twin Towers
Let’s first take a look at one of Malaysia’s most iconic tourist spots. This is the Petronas Twin Towers. The two identical towers stand at 451.9 metres. Currently, it is the tallest twin towers in the world. This great innovative idea stems from the brilliance of three distinguished architects. In the end, the twin towers were born in 1996. Let’s take a look at some of its traits.
- A 7-year project in totality
- Internally lined up with gift shops, shopping stores
- Islamic patters; Rub El Hizb
These all may be well and good. However, the main attraction that this attraction brings is its view. Yes, this attraction brings forth new meaning to the word breath-taking. On the 86th floor, it hosts an observation deck. This deck brings a full 360-degree view of KL city centre. You will get to bathe yourself in the rich history and legacy of Malaysia through digital displays.
However, the downside that comes with such a remarkable attraction is its slots and timing. This marvellous spot only has limited slots of entries. It is only available for visits from 10am to 6pm from Tuesday to Sundays. So, if you were thinking of beating the weekend crowd and coming on Monday. We recommend you try Tuesday instead.
All in all, it is a astonishing structure that leaves many who visits it in awe. In fact, if you were to ask any Malaysian to bring you around. This is probably the one place that they would first think of. I mean, let’s face it. This is debatably the icon towards our Malaysian heritage. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Breath-taking view
- Islamic patterns
- Top of the range internal facilities
Cons
- Limited time slots
Batu Caves
Now, we take a look at Batu Caves. This is another one of most frequented tourist attractions in Malaysia. Unlike the Petronas Twin Towers, this location takes a more traditional and religious view. It is located approximately 11 kilometres north of Kuala Lumpur. Its interior is made of limestone formations. These formations were said to be around 400 years old. We can’t say we will be around that long. So, here are some of its traits.
- 100-year-old temple
- 100-metre-high arch ceiling
- Houses several Hindu shrines
The astonishing part about this temple comes from its flights of stairs and timely ritual. Let’s some cardio exercises. This temple has a total of 272 steps of stairs. All tourist who wishes to see its beauty will have to be subjected to this trial. Nonetheless, many still flocks to this area regardless the trial. This is because during the Thaipusam period, many followers of Hindu come to this temple. They will then bring offerings such as milk to Lord Muruga. So, definitely keep an eye out for the Thaipusam period if you would like to visit this area.
The downside of this heritage is that its rather run-down. The area is not exactly maintained properly due to large spacious area. It is also due to its nature of being a cave, so none of that fancy stuff. One must also beware of the wildlife surrounding the area. There are monkeys that live in the area. Sometimes, they tend to eye our tasty treats. So, don’t leave your food idle for too long. Albeit, this does sometimes make for a good laugh.
In essence, this is a historical and traditional piece of heritage. There is little to none that can compare it. This especially goes for the size of land that it covers. The 272 steps are also definitely one of the main highlights as you would sometimes see joggers there as well. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- 100-year-old temple
- Large festive attraction
- Hindu shrines
Cons
- Wildlife
- Un-hygienic surrounding
Perhentian Islands
This is a spot that many tourists would love to visit. It simply takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. It is sometimes considered as Malaysia’s perfect beach destination. There is also a meaning behind its name. As it was once considered as the stopping point between the drive from Bangkok to Malaysia. “Perhentian” meaning “stopping point” Here are some of its traits.
- Split into islands (Big and Small)
- Crystal clear water
- Bars and restaurants
The best part about this island is its adventure. This island is littered with activities for adventure seeking enthusiast. They have activities such as snorkelling. This is where you can properly enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Perhentian Island and its marine life. If you don’t fancy the aqua life, then how about the wild life. They also have jungle trekking activities where you can pass through jungle trails crossing the islands.
With all this adventure and excitement, there are some notable things to be aware of on Perhentian Island. Unfortunately, this island is also known for petty theft. The island main source of revenue stems from the travel industry. Since the travel industry has practically been closed for a year, these cases may spring up again. So, we recommend to all tourist to keep your belongings safe.
The joys that Perhentian Island brings forth is unparallel to thrill seeking fanatics. This stems from the jungle trekking or snorkelling activities. We also like to mention that if you are a newly wed or romantic couple, the “Big Island” is perfect for a romantic getaway. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Numerous adventure activities
- Luxurious hotels
- Beach side view
Cons
- Petty theft
Kek Lok Si Temple
Now, that we have taken you on a tour to an island. We would like to bring you back to a temple. This is another famous temple in Penang. The main difference between this temple and the other is the religion that it worships. This temple practices the Buddha’s teachings and built in the year 1891. Here are some of its traits.
- Jewel of Penang
- Presence of the grand status of lord Buddha
- Act as a school of Buddhist education
You may be wondering, is this not just a normal Buddhist temple? Well, you are wrong! This temple is so much more. The best part about this temple is its heritage and legacy. For years, it has been touted as a centre of excellence of Chinese culture. Those who wish to understand more about the Chinese ancestral legacy, then this is the place to be.
The downside about this temple is its route. Currently, the route to the temple is temporarily blocked. It is unclear as to what is the reason. However, we are sure this is a temporary procedure. This is probably due to either the pandemic or constructional work.
In essence, if you are one that wants to study or practice the way of the Buddha. The Kek Lok Si temple should be the place to be. This heritage treasure is one that should be preserved and taken care for as long as possible. In fact, there is one tree near the Kek Lok Si temple. This is where our greatest wishes are hung on a red note in hope that one day it becomes reality. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Jewel of Penang
- School for Buddha learning
- Chinese ancestral legacy and reputation
Cons
- Route to temple
Langkawi SkyCab
The Langkawi SkyCab is the perfect place for anyone who wants to seek a panoramic view. It currently hovers over jungles and rocks that have been over 500 million years. In fact, it is also located in one of the oldest parts of South East Asia. If you feel the goosebumps, then you catch our drift. Here are some of its traits.
- Elevated 650m above sea level
- Each Gondola can accommodate 480kg
- 53 units of Gondola
The best part about this SkyCab is its view. The most spectacular view comes from the top of Machincang Mountain. The guests can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Langkawi islands and Southern Thailand. There is absolutely no where else on earth where you can find such a view. It is only here that this view exists.
The downside of this place is that it is time sensitive. This means that you can only enjoy this view for about 15 minutes. Well, it is said that the best things don’t really last. This is especially true when a view comes around as spectacular as this. It will only last so long and one should definitely treasure it.
All in all, this place definitely is worth that 15-minute view. There are also other activities that can be enjoyed there. There is also the SkyGlide where you can ride with your child across the land. If not, you can enjoy a delicious meal at the SkyBistro. So, there is so much than meets the eye at this attraction. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Various activities
- Variety of Gondolas
- Panoramic views
Cons
- Time sensitive view
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is a place that is neither a temple or a popular spot. It is a hotel and tourist spots in itself. It is a destination that spoils the individuals with a variety of activities to choose from. This goes all the away from Spas, Dinings, and even a Highlands Bar. This destination was named after William Cameron who discovered it in 1885. Here are some of its traits
- Variety of activites
- Huge architectural heritage
- 18-hole golf course
The best part about this tourist spot is its hotel and accommodation. It is a considered a 5-star hotel due to all of its remarkable standards. Each room host a colonial design that brings out the ancient scenes. In fact, some of has a spectacular view facing the golf course. To top it off, it even boasts a bunch of bespoke furniture that fits with the theme.
The downside is definitely its price. Let’s be real, the price of 5-star hotel rooms is anything but cheap. So, if you do not mind spending a bomb shell to enjoy the finer things in life. Here is the place for you.
In short, this is a true place of serenity. If you want to get away from the world and enjoy the finer things in life. This is the place for you. We can speak from personal experience that this place treats their guests just like royalty. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Variety of activities
- 5-star hotel
- 18-hole golf course
Cons
- Price
Genting Highlands
This is a place that everyone knows about. Well, everyone in Malaysia at least. This place is notorious for all of its fancy places and activities to partake in. In fact, this place is very much known to showcase both sides of the coin. It has both good and bad sides of the story. Here are some of its traits.
- Variety of attractions
- Huge and newly innovated theme park
- Different types and varieties of condos
The main attraction of this is place is the casino. This casino is one of the biggest in Malaysia. In fact, it might even be the biggest in Malaysia. It allows the player to play many games. These games include BlackJack, Big and Small, Roulette and so on. So, if you want to have some fun with some spare cash. This is the place to be. We must still urge to play responsibly.
The downside is that this place is notorious for a large variety of un-appetizing activities. These could include hookers lurking around and passing numbers to you. It could also include scammers that attempt to get extra cash from you.
All in all, it is a beautiful tourist spot but not for its rather uglier side as well. Nonetheless, we would recommend for you to visit this place and perhaps even have a good time at the gambling hall. You never know, you may even walk out with more than what you entered with. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Great tourist attractions
- One of the largest casinos
- Huge and newly innovated theme park
Cons
- Scammers
Bukit Bintang
Let’s walk away from all the glamour and lights. We are going to take a trip back down to earth. We are now going to look at a street near Kuala Lumpur. This is “Bukit Bintang”. This is also known as Star Street. It boasts a large variety of malls, food and entertainments. Here are some of its traits.
- Large food courts and local delicacies
- Reachable by efficient network of public transport
- Variety of entertainment options
The best part about this mall is that centred around 9 signature malls. This mall includes even the renowned Pavilion. This is mall consist of variety of top tier products and food choices. Besides that, it is littered with some swanky bars which always provide some sprinkle of excitement.
The downside of this part is its petty theft rate. The area is known for this activity. There are also activities of hookers and street prostitutes that try to lure you into their trap. This is definitely one should be on the look out for at all times.
All in all, we recommend you give this place a visit when you are here. The natural heritage in terms of food and entertainment spots is beyond belief. There are food and products that can never be found anywhere else. Just be aware of your belongings during your trip. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Centred around 9 signature malls
- Large food courts and local delicacies
- Reachable by efficient network of public transport
Cons
- Petty theft
Aquaria KLCC
Let’s venture away from the land life and to the marine life. Aside from our National Zoo, Aquaria KLCC is the closest thing we have thing to being one with the ocean. This is a state-of-the-art aquarium that showcases marine life in all of its beauty. Here are some of its traits.
- 5,000 land bound square feet
- Conservation and educational experience
- Feeding experience
The best part about this aquarium is the diving experience that it provides. They call it the cage rage. This is where you get the opportunity to dive into water with the aqua marine life. This is a rare opportunity that no more many places would dare to offer.
The downside about this area is that not many of its attractions are available on a daily basis. In fact, most of them are only available on alternate days. This means crowds would be packed on each of these days to view the aquarium. So, book your slots people.
All in all, this area is one of the must go areas in Malaysia. In fact, it is debatably one of the best aquariums in the entire country. If you have a hunger for adventure and danger, we would certainly recommend diving with the sharks. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Large aquarium
- Unforgettable shark diving experience
- Feeding experience
Cons
- Wayward opening days
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
Royal Selangor is a brand that is known by the masses. It has been a given since the early 1885. They create beautiful pieces of art from one of the most malleable metal on earth. This would be in the form of pewter. Here are some of its traits.
- Global presence
- Diverse expertise
- 2016 Winner’s of Traveller’s Choice Award
The best part about this visitor centre is its exquisite tour. This is where they have dedicated tour guides to bring you through the entire museum. This is where it explains the entire history of Royal Selangor. In fact, it also allows you to actually try making your own unique piece of pewter art.
The downside is that visitor centre also shows part of the factory. If you are those individuals that are slightly sensitive to dust. We recommend you wear a face mask at all time when entering the vicinity.
In essence, this is an area that brings back centuries of history and legacy to the modern day. It showcases all the hard work done from centuries which are still appreciated even till this very day. We highly recommend you visiting the museum and if possible, getting a souvenir home for yourself. Here are some things to consider before your next visit.
Pros
- Global presence
- Winner of Traveller’s Choice Award
- Exquisite tour
Cons
- Dust particles
Buying Guide
With so many choices of famous tourist attractions in Malaysia, you must be sweating in terms of where to go. So, don’t worry about that anymore. We are here to give you some tips.
The Occasion
We recommend understand what is the specific condition of you going to these famous tourist attractions in Malaysia. If you are going for a romantic getaway, we suggest Perhentian Islands.
The Budget
Let’s look at one’s budget. If your budget is on the low and yet you want a romantic or breath-taking views. We suggest Genting Highlands Resort World Hotel for a budget hotel spend. Perhaps even a Langkawi SkyCab for a beautiful panoramic view
The accessibility
When selecting a destination, we always recommend looking for a place that can easily be travelled. If you don’t mind just bag packing, we recommend either Bukit Bintang or Petronas Twin Towers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Although, we have given a decently clear buying guide. We do understand that you may still have a few questions to answer. So, we are here to clear some of those doubts.
Can I go for full tour of the Malaysia city encompassing all these attractions?
We don’t think there is one tour agency that provides exactly all 10 of these locations. However, we are sure there are certain agencies that do have a few.
How can I best book these relevant time slots?
Most of these famous tourist attractions in Malaysia can be booked on their online platforms. Unless, there are no relevant time slots to book.
How do I know if the place is family friendly?
Most tourist attractions are family friendly. This is especially so for those on this list aside from the Genting Highlands casino. Nonetheless, usually resorts or areas with a view is family friendly.
Conclusion
In essence, each of tourist attractions in Malaysia listed above is subjective to every individual and their respective needs. There is no place that fits all the needs of an individual. The closest bet would be Bukit Bintang. This is because there is filled with eateries, entertainment areas and signature malls.
So, since the pandemic is lessening up. We should take the opportunity to see the outside world a bit. Even so, we should maintain social distancing and wear our face masks at all time.