Things To Do
in Kulai
Kulai is a growing town in Johor, Malaysia, known for its palm oil heritage and friendly market atmosphere. It sits near the Johor-Singapore border, making it a convenient base for exploring southern Peninsular Malaysia. Visitors can explore bustling markets, sample diverse local cuisines, and access nearby nature reserves.
The town blends rural charm with modern conveniences, offering a relaxed vibe and easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kulai Railway Station, a beautiful heritage site that showcases the town's history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the local market, where you can sample traditional Malaysian breakfast dishes such as Nasi Lemak. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly vendors will give you a taste of local life.
Visit the nearby Kulai Heritage House, a museum filled with artifacts that reflect the culture and history of the region. Spend some time exploring the quaint streets lined with colonial buildings, stopping at local cafes for a refreshing drink. Before the afternoon ends, take a moment to appreciate the local art scene by visiting small galleries showcasing works from local artists.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor some authentic Malaysian cuisine, such as Satay and Rendang. After dinner, stroll through the bustling night market where you can shop for handicrafts and sample local street food. The lively atmosphere and colorful stalls create a perfect ending to your day.
Begin your day with a trip to the nearby Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, where you can enjoy the fresh morning air while hiking along scenic trails. The lush greenery and the sound of birds chirping will immerse you in nature's beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species that inhabit the area.
After your hike, relax at one of the designated picnic spots within the forest, enjoying a packed lunch surrounded by nature. Later, visit the nearby waterfalls, where you can cool off and take stunning photographs of the cascading water. The tranquil ambiance of the waterfalls makes it a perfect place for reflection and relaxation.
As evening approaches, return to Kulai and unwind at a local café, sipping on a traditional Teh Tarik. Consider visiting a nearby park to enjoy a peaceful walk while watching the sunset over the horizon. The calming environment will help you recharge after a day filled with adventure in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
| 🛍️Local groceries and supplies | $10-20 |
| 🚕Taxi or ride-hail within town | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to nature (Gunung Pulai) and shopping (JPO)
- Friendly locals and affordable travel in Johor
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Hot and humid climate can feel intense in peak season
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Boleh saya mendapat menu dalam bahasa Inggeris?" - Can I have the menu in English?
Places to Visit in Kulai
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over Kulai plain from forest trails; best light at early morning or late afternoon.
Colorful traditional shopfronts along Jalan Kulai with morning activity and evening lighting.
Calm river scenes and local fishermen with boats at soft golden hour.
Food in Kulai
Kulai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant coconut rice served with sambal, peanuts, fried anchovies, boiled egg and often chicken or fish.
Must-Try!
Herbal pork or mushroom soup served with rice or yau char kway. Commonly found in local eateries and coffee shops.
Skewered marinated meat grilled and served with peanut sauce, cucumber, onion and ketupat.
Noodles in a fragrant spiced gravy, often with boiled egg, potatoes and lime—popular at local stalls.
Assorted Malay bite-sized snacks and desserts, perfect with a hot cup of local coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy morning market offering fresh produce, nasi lemak stalls, and traditional snacks.
Weekly night market with street food, drinks, and bargain finds.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; in Malay and Muslim settings, a slight nod or 'Assalamualaikum' is appropriate.
Dress modestly in religious sites and when visiting villages; shoulders and knees covered in temples and mosques.
Avoid loud behavior near mosques and during prayer times; remove hats and keep voices low in sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Kulai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Malaysia, but small tips for exceptional service are appreciated in tourist areas; many restaurants do not include service charge.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards common in larger outlets and restaurants; digital wallets (Touch 'n Go eWallet, GrabPay) are popular for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent short showers. Bring sun protection, water, and comfortable breathable clothing.
Northeast monsoon brings heavier rainfall and occasional floods in low-lying areas; plan outdoor activities in the morning.
Generally drier with hot afternoons; plan outdoor hikes for cooler mornings.
Kulai at Night
Hiking in Kulai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day-hike with forest trails and views over the landscape; accessible from Kulai.
Airports
How to reach Kulai by plane.
The nearest airport, about 25–40 minutes by car from Kulai, with domestic and limited international flights.
A major international hub about 1.5–2.5 hours away by road and rail, commonly used by travelers visiting southern Johor.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group in Kulai; many residents are Malay Muslims with local cultural practices.
Significant Chinese community with temples and family-owned businesses.
Smaller communities contributing to a diverse cultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular casual and club sport in community centers and schools.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport commonly played in local parks and school grounds.
Common pastime among youths and adults; local fields and clubs exist in Kulai and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kulai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-based; look for vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and ask for no meat stock. In Malay eateries, say 'tanpa daging' (no meat) and 'sayur sahaja' (vegetables only).