The Best Places To Go In Malaysia

6/7/2023

Some islands and a coral reef in Malaysia

Often overlooked for its nearby neighbour of Thailand, Malaysia has lots to offer those who make the trip. From the bustling metropolis of Kuala Lumpur overlooked by the Petronas Towers to the relaxing island of Langkawi or the historic island of Penang, there is so much variety here for you to discover. Come with us to explore what this beautiful country has to offer.

Kuala Lumpur

No matter where you are in Kuala Lumpur, your eyes are drawn to the spectacle that is the Petronas Towers, which were the tallest buildings in the world for a while. Going up to the 86th floor and watching the city move around like ants at the bottom is definitely not for the faint hearted.

Looking at the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur

There is more to Kuala Lumpur (or KL as its better known) than the Petronas Towers. For example, the city is excellent for shopping with numerous malls, there is history with the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, excellent street food such as Nasi Kandar (a mixed rice dish normally served with meat or seafood and a vegetable component such as Okra or cabbage), theme parks or if you want to relax then slow down at the KL Butterfly Park.

Although not as popular as its northern neighbour, Bangkok or southern neighbour, Singapore, KL certainly has plenty to keep everyone entertained for a few days

Langkawi

Looking down from the hills of Langkawi

Langkawi could quite possibly be the jewel in the crown where holidays to Malaysia are concerned. Situated off the northwest coast of the mainland, the island is known for its stunning beaches (including one which has regularly featured in the top 10 beaches of the world), clear waters and luxury resorts. You can also get up here by cable car.

An iconic landmark of Langkawi is the Sky Bridge, a 125 metre long curved pedestrian bridge and 700 metres above sea level which offers exhilarating views of the stunning scenery that is typical of Langkawi. The main town of Kuah is dominated by a 12 metre tall sculpture of an eagle.

There are 4 golf courses in Langkawi including the amazing Els Club Teluk Datai, designed by Ernie Els.

This is definitely an island for full relaxation.

Penang

Penang is a province in northern Malaysia made up of Penang island and a part of the nearby mainland. This island is brimming with things to do from the capital George Town to Penang National Park in the north and beautiful beaches in the south.

Looking down on George Town, Penang

George Town is a cultural mixing pot of Chinese, Malay and Indian residents which creates an amazing atmosphere and food scene to begin with, mix this with the history of the island and its many religious sites and you've got somewhere truly special. Wander around the UNESCO World Heritage site of Colonial George Town or bustling streets of Little India, or perhaps you want to just want to see where things take you. You'll probably end up walking past the street art which is plastered across the walls of the town. For the best views of the town visit the Top at Komtar or travel up the funicular on Penang Hill.

As with many places in South East Asia, nature here is truly beautiful. Whether you're hiking around Penang National Park or relaxing on the beaches around the island. Some of the best beaches are Batu Ferrenghi, on the northern coast, or Pantai Pasir Panjang in the south west.

Cameron Highlands

A lesser explored and beautiful area of Malaysia - Cameron Highlands. Located just east of the city of Ipoh, this area is full of rolling hills high up in central Malaysia. It works perfectly as a twin centre with Kuala Lumpur as you get away from the bustling streets and out into wide expansive vistas filled with farmland, mossy forests and tea plantations.

Experience traditional afternoon tea in the charming secret garden of the Smokehouse Hotel all with stunning far reaching views. Then hop into a Land Rover and head up to the Cameron Highlands’ second highest mountain. Gunung Brinchang sits 2032 metres above sea level and it comes with stunning panoramic views. As you drive through rolling tea plantations and drink in the views. A highlight of the area is a short hike on Coral Hill which looks like it’s been plucked straight from a fairy-tale.

Pangkor Laut

The infinity pool and water villas of Pangkor Laut Resort

Nestled off the western coast of Malaysia and hidden behind its larger neighbour is the private island of Pangkor Laut. With an interior of ancient rainforest and with stunning beaches around its coast, Pangkor Laut is a wonderful beach escape.

Discover the beautiful and luxurious Pangkor Laut Resort which is nestled in the north of the island.

A jetty in Langkawi

We hope that we have opened your eyes to what Malaysia has to offer and where is best to go if you visit. To find out more about holidays to Malaysia, visit our pages or call us on 01156547795. If you’re wanting to book, call us, email [email protected] or fill in our contact form with what you’re looking for and we’ll be more than happy to help you out. Don't forget to follow us on social media to find out the next Destination of the Week and find out about our other destinations here at Wintasun. If you've been to Malaysia, where was your favourite place? What was the best thing you did, or do you think we missed anything? Let us know in the comments or on social media, just click the buttons below which take you to our social pages.

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