Things To Do
in Malaysia
Malaysia is a Southeast Asian nation that blends Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous cultures into a vibrant tapestry. From gleaming modern skylines in Kuala Lumpur to lush rainforests, pristine islands, and colonial towns, its landscapes are incredibly diverse. Food is a cornerstone here, with street stalls and markets offering an extraordinary range of flavors.
Travelers are drawn to its warm hospitality, multicultural heritage, and dramatic biodiversity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and transfer to your hotel in the city center. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a local café overlooking the iconic Petronas Towers. After settling in, explore the nearby KLCC Park for a morning stroll.
Visit the Batu Caves, a stunning limestone hill featuring a series of caves and cave temples. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling street food at nearby stalls. Spend your afternoon shopping at the Central Market for local crafts and souvenirs.
Return to the city and experience the vibrant night market at Jalan Alor, where mouth-watering street food awaits. Enjoy the lights of the city as you dine outdoors and mingle with locals. Wrap up your evening with a visit to the rooftop bar for breathtaking views of the KL skyline.
Depart Kuala Lumpur early in the morning for the lush Cameron Highlands, known for its tea plantations and cool weather. Stop by a local tea plantation to learn about the tea-making process while sipping freshly brewed tea. Take a leisurely walk through the scenic landscape filled with rolling hills and vibrant flowers.
Explore the Mossy Forest on a guided trek, where you can encounter unique flora and fauna along the misty trails. Make a visit to the strawberry farms and indulge in picking your own strawberries. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a café offering strawberry-themed treats.
Return to your accommodation as the sun sets over the highlands, and rejuvenate with a relaxing dinner featuring local dishes. Spend your evening stargazing in the clear mountain air or enjoy a quiet cup of tea on your balcony. Retreat to your cozy room for a restful night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Mid-range dinner for two | $20-40 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚆Public transit (one-way) | $0.60-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant multicultural cuisine and friendly locals
- Excellent value and modern infrastructure
- Hot and humid climate with heavy rain seasons
- Traffic congestion in major cities and crowded tourist sites
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak faham" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Malaysia
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic twin towers framed by the park, especially photogenic at sunset and after dark when illuminated.
A mosaic of murals and 3D art along the UNESCO-listed streets, perfect for wandering and photography.
A dramatic limestone cave complex with a towering golden statue and a long flight of steps.
Massive temple complex perched on a hillside with pagodas and lantern-filled views.
Suspension bridge offering sweeping panorama over rainforest and islands.
Food in Malaysia
Malaysia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coconut rice served with spicy sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and cucumber; often enjoyed with fried chicken or sambal fish.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried flat rice noodles with shrimp, egg, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and a savory-soy seasoning.
Grilled skewers of marinated meat served with peanut sauce, onions, cucumbers, and rice cakes.
A tangy, spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, shrimp, and herbs; varies by region.
Slow-cooked beef (or chicken) in a rich, spiced coconut gravy; deeply flavorful and often served with rice.
Flaky flatbread served with a luscious lentil curry; a beloved breakfast and snack option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant night market with bites, fabrics, and souvenirs—all within easy walking distance of central KL.
Iconic hawker street offering a wide range of Malaysian favorites under bright lights.
A long seaside row of stalls serving Penang specialties from stingray to soups and noodle dishes.
Historic street market with snacks, crafts, and a charming riverside ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; use the right hand for giving/receiving; avoid touching people's heads and do not pass items with the left hand.
Greet with a smile and a simple 'Selamat pagi' in the morning; show respect to elders; avoid public confrontations and be patient in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Malaysia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. Some restaurants include a service charge (check the bill); otherwise, small tips for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and porters are common.
Cash (MYR) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and e-wallets (e.g., Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with opportunities for beach visits on the west coast; brief showers still possible in the late day.
East coast beaches (Kelantan, Terengganu) can experience rough seas and heavy rainfall; some island trips may be limited.
Brief but intense downpours, typically in the late afternoon or evening; plan flexible outdoor schedules.
Malaysia at Night
Hiking in Malaysia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge hike with dramatic valley views near Kuala Lumpur; not for first-timers due to exposure.
Cool-climate hikes amid mossy forests and tea plantations, suitable for a range of levels.
Malaysia's highest peak with multi-day treks and biodiversity-rich trails.
Airports
How to reach Malaysia by plane.
Main international gateway near Sepang; fast rail links to central KL and the city via KLIA Ekspres.
Gateway to Penang; modern facilities with easy taxi or ride-hailing access to George Town.
Island gateway to Langkawi; handles domestic and some international flights; convenient to resort areas.
Johor Bahru airport serving southern Malaysia; access via highway and rail connections for visiting southern attractions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group; Islam is the predominant religion and plays a central role in many customs and festivals.
A significant minority with vibrant neighborhoods, business networks, and a rich culinary scene.
A prominent community contributing to cuisine, culture, and festivals.
Various groups in Sabah and Sarawak with distinct languages and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; abundant courts and local clubs across cities.
A popular sport with local leagues, street games, and enthusiastic supporters.
Traditional krossover sport using a rattan ball; showcased at festivals and local events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Malaysia offers many vegetarian-friendly options; look for vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and rice-based meals. When ordering, ask for 'tanpa daging' (without meat) or note 'vegetarian' on the order.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malaysia.