Things To Do
in Malaysia

Malaysia is a vibrant Southeast Asian nation known for its stunning diversity, encompassing a rich blend of cultures, languages, and traditions. With lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and bustling cities, it offers travelers a unique experience of both natural beauty and urban life. The country's strategic location has made it a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences, reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and architecture.

From the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia is a destination that caters to all types of travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kuala Lumpur
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Petronas Twin Towers for breathtaking views of the city from the skybridge. Afterward, head to the nearby KLCC Park for a leisurely stroll and some morning photos.

afternoon
:

Visit the bustling Central Market for lunch and shop for local handicrafts. Then, explore Chinatown and the vibrant streets of Petaling Street for a taste of local culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a street food dinner at Jalan Alor, famous for its vibrant food stalls. Cap off the night with a visit to the Menara Kuala Lumpur for night views of the city.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Depart early for a day trip to Batu Caves, a limestone hill with stunning caves and temples. Climb the 272 colorful steps to reach the main cave.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby FRIM (Forest Research Institute Malaysia) for a canopy walk and explore its beautiful trails before heading back to the city.

evening
:

Indulge in a traditional Malaysian dinner at a restaurant in Bangsar. Afterwards, experience the nightlife at one of the rooftop bars overlooking the city skyline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$3-$5
🚌Public transport fare$0.50-$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-$30
🍺Local beer$2-$4
🌍SIM card for data$10-$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Stunning natural landscapes
  • Delicious and varied cuisine
  • High humidity can be uncomfortable
  • Traffic congestion in major cities
  • Language barriers in rural areas
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Saya tidak faham" - I don’t understand
  • "Boleh saya minta bill?" - Can I have the bill?

Places to Visit in Malaysia

Visit one of these nice places.

Petronas Twin Towers

Iconic skyscrapers that are best photographed at sunset when they are beautifully lit.

Batu Caves

A stunning limestone cave complex with colorful Hindu temples, providing dramatic backdrops.

Langkawi Sky Bridge

A curved pedestrian bridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea.

Culinary Guide

Food in Malaysia

Malaysia's culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, featuring a delicious mix of flavors from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cuisines.

Malaysia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Lemak

Considered the national dish, it consists of coconut rice served with sambal, fried crispy anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and cucumber.

Must-Try!

Roti Canai

A flaky flatbread often served with dhal or curry, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Char Kway Teow

A stir-fried noodle dish with prawns, Chinese sausage, eggs, and bean sprouts.

Laksa

A spicy noodle soup that comes in various regional styles, often featuring coconut milk or sour asam.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jalan Alor

A famous street food haven in Kuala Lumpur, lined with stalls offering a variety of local delicacies.

Penang Street Market

A vibrant market in Penang known for its diverse street food options and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malaysia experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and temperatures averaging between 77°F (25°C) and 95°F (35°C) year-round. The country has two monsoon seasons: the Southwest Monsoon from May to September and the Northeast Monsoon from November to March, affecting different regions. Expect heavy rainfall during monsoon months and dry, sunny days during the dry season. Coastal regions are generally cooler due to sea breezes, while inland areas can be hotter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them politely and using both hands when giving or receiving.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites; women should cover shoulders and legs.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malaysia is generally a safe country for travelers. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. Ensure you have travel insurance and familiarize yourself with emergency contacts. In rural areas, be cautious of wildlife and follow local guidelines.

Tipping in Malaysia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for street food and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Monsoon Season (May to September)

Expect heavy rainfall, especially on the east coast. It’s a good time for indoor activities.

Dry Season (October to March)

This is the best time to visit with pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

Festive Season (June to August)

Experience vibrant festivals like Hari Raya and Merdeka with cultural events and celebrations.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

A major celebration with colorful decorations and festive food, especially in Chinese-majority areas.

Nightlife Guide

Malaysia at Night

Malaysia's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, ranging from rooftop bars in Kuala Lumpur to beach parties in Langkawi. Major cities feature a mix of clubs, lounges, and live music venues catering to various tastes. In Kuala Lumpur, areas like Bukit Bintang are known for their bustling nightlife, while Penang offers a more laid-back bar scene. For a unique experience, explore night markets where you can enjoy street food and local entertainment.

Hiking in Malaysia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Tabur

A popular hiking trail near Kuala Lumpur offering stunning views of the city and surrounding nature, suitable for various skill levels.

Mount Kinabalu

Located in Borneo, this iconic mountain is a challenging hike with breathtaking views, attracting serious trekkers.

Airports

How to reach Malaysia by plane.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)

The main international gateway to Malaysia, located about 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur city center, offering flights to and from major cities worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Malaysia offers walkable cities, particularly in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur and Georgetown in Penang, where most attractions are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally available, though conditions may vary. In rural areas, walking may be less feasible due to lack of infrastructure. Public transport is a convenient alternative for covering longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay

The largest ethnic group, comprising about 50% of the population, primarily Muslim and known for their rich cultural heritage.

Chinese

The second-largest demographic group, known for their contributions to commerce and culture, with many practicing Buddhism or Taoism.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A hugely popular sport in Malaysia, known for producing world-class players and hosting international tournaments.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local leagues and international matches drawing large crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in major cities can be quite congested, especially during peak hours. Kuala Lumpur experiences heavy traffic jams, making it wise to plan travel times accordingly. Public transportation options include buses, light rail, and taxis, with ride-sharing services like Grab being extremely popular. Traffic rules are generally followed, but be cautious of motorcyclists and cyclists on the roads.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to clarify if they contain fish sauce.

Halal Food

Most food in Malaysia is halal, but always look for halal certification if this is a concern.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Malaysia provides quality healthcare services, with both public and private hospitals available. Major cities have well-equipped medical facilities, and English is commonly spoken among healthcare professionals. Travel insurance is recommended, especially for expatriates and tourists. For minor ailments, pharmacies are widely available, and over-the-counter medications are easily accessible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Malaysia.