12 Best Places In Malaysia That Offer An Experience That Shouldn't Be Missed

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If you're planning a budget-friendly international trip, the one common option that will take you by surprise is Malaysia. Malaysia is home to some of the most advanced concrete jungles, a history that goes way back, and topical diversity that forces you to stop and admire. The country has serene beaches, prestigious religious places, and technology and attractions that make it one of the most competitive economies in the world. And do not even get us started on the food, as you will find some of the most earth-shattering seafood there. If you are planning your first trip abroad and are confused about where to head, we can't recommend Malaysia enough. The trip will fall within a reasonable budget, can be clubbed with a packaged visit to other countries as well, like Singapore, will provide a balanced mix of experiences (spectacular skyscrapers and serene beaches and mountains), and will definitely prove to be an experience full of core memories. Plus, if you are planning to visit with family, the country has many religious shrines and institutions as well. So, if we have convinced you about your trip to Malaysia, here are the top 12 tourist places that you can't miss to add to your itinerary.

Tioman Island

Part of the East coast of Malaysia, Tioman Island is renowned for its ecotourism. With lush flora and fauna, magical forest trails, serene beaches, waterfalls, and exquisite corals, this place is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. It is also regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and the islanders there will welcome you with such warmth that it will be tough to say goodbye.

Must-Visit: Lubuk Teja Waterfall, Monkey Bay, Scuba Diving

Kuala Lumpur

An inevitable addition to any Malaysia itinerary, the capital city of Kuala Lumpur is an experience that keeps on giving. With scrumptious street food, one-of-a-kind attractions like the Twin Towers, sky-scrapers like the KL Tower with a sky deck you must witness, and museums, this city is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the advanced city life of Malaysia. Make sure that you take the street food seriously there, as you'll find multiple Asian cuisines that are a true delight for taste buds.

Must-Visit For Street Food: Taman Connaught, Tapak Urban Street Dining

Must-Visit For Shopping: Petaling Market, Central Market, Pavilion Mall, Berjaya Times Square

Must-Visit For Sight Seeing: Menara Kuala Lumpur, KLCC Park, Thean Hou Temple

Perhentian Island

This island group lies in northern Malaysia and houses many islands but there are two islands that are revered as the main ones, called Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. If you are into water sports and want to spend your vacation days observing sea life under water, then this place simply becomes a must. There are many hidden islands as well, making it perfect for those of us who are natural explorers.

Must-Visit: Adam & Eve Beach, Teluk Keke, Snorkeling & Trekking, Turtle Beach

Georgetown Penang

Penang is another state that is a given in any Malaysia itinerary, and though it's beautiful overall, one specific city that has become a popular attraction is Georgetown. Georgetown is a UNESCO heritage site, famous for its street market, food stalls, artsy lanes, and architecture that denotes powerful tales of history. We'd suggest exploring it by wandering around, and you will find unique rides, sweets, and cool graffiti in every corner.

Must-Visit: Penang Hill, Penang Botanic Gardens, Clan Jetties of Penang, Penang Peranakan Mansion

Redang Island

Known to be located in the heart of coral islands, this place is famous for its white sand beaches and clean, blue sea waters. Redang Beach is a major tourist attraction spot in Malaysia, visited by thousands of tourists every year, and ranked as one of the best beaches in the whole world. You can trail off into the luscious hikes in the forest, enjoy the may waterfalls, or just relax near the shore and have the best seafood experience.

Must-Visit: Mengabang, chegar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary

Ipoh

A city in Northwestern Malaysia, Ipoh is truly one of a kind. It's said to be the gateway of Cameron Highlands, and you can find a little bit of everything in the place, (beaches, high skylines, dense forests, coasts, and more). Take the Ipoh Heritage route which is a mapped route covering 27 heritage sites of the city, including the railways that were made by the British. Just soak in the city's food and drinking culture, and don't forget to taste the famous white coffee of Malaysia, made with coffee beans and margarine.

Must-Visit: Opt for a full-day city tour

Langkawi

With its name derived from two languages, Malay and Sanskrit, Langkawi harbours three protected geo-forest parks and many small beaches. Though Malaysia has multiple places that represent the beauty of nature in the most ethereal sense, this place is something that will move you with its natural and ecological richness. They also have the world's steepest cable car ride, and you can explore some hidden mangrove forest, perfect for someone who has an affinity towards the science of trees and different plants.

Must-Visit: Langkawi Sky Bridge & Cable Car, Langkawi Mangrove Tour

Malacca City

Also, the trade center of the East, Malacca City drips with rich history, Malaysian delicacies, and night markets that are the ultimate attraction for international tourists. In 2008 it was featured as a UNESCO cultural site and connotes colonial history and its aftermath. Jonker Street night market is a must visit, and you will find some restored religious sites that are a place to experience peace and history, along with some spectacular architecture.

Must-Visit: Melaka River Cruise, Jonker Street Night Market, Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum

Cameron Highlands

Another place that attracts visitors for its natural beauty, and ecological prowess, Cameron Highlands is the producer of some of the best teas in the world. The place advertises simple living in the truest way of the term and is packed with lush-green forests, orchards, nurseries, waterfalls, trails and hikes, and exceptional wildlife. This place is a definite visit for anyone who seeks to experience simple life, and with great natural terrains, and exquisite views.

Kota Kinabalu

Pacing its way to the list of best tourist places in Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu, or KK (as it is fondly referred to) is the capital city of Sabah. Jesseton Point Waterfront and Mount Kinabalu are your spots to catch some scenic views and mouth-watering food, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and one of the most sought-after trekking experiences because of the gorgeous trails it allows one to embark on. If you want to keep a healthy mix of nature, and city life in your vacation, then this one is definitely worth a visit.

Batu Caves

Located in the city of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is a hill that features many small and big caves, encapsulating many religious shrines and temples. They have many Hindu sculptures and scriptures, and the caves make the whole experience even more rich and wholesome. This place is great for someone who wants delve deep and understand the rich, conflicting religious history of Malaysia while also looking at some magnificent statues. 

Putrajaya

Developed as the Garden City, Putrajaya is the home of the Prime Minister's home office and the three-tiered Putra Bridge. This city is the perfect balance of nature and technology, with more man-made parks and lakes anywhere in the world. All the building represent 20th-century architecture, and you can visit Taman Botani Putraja, Seri Wawasan Bride, and Putra Mosque, that are the main tourist attractions, and a must-visit.

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A literature post-graduate, who loves writing about all things fashion, pop-culture, and academia.