Tourist Places in Malaysia | Top 10 Places to Visit in Malaysia

Malaysia is a country of vibrant contrasts, futuristic skyscrapers rising beside ancient temples, lush rainforests hiding tribal traditions, and islands that feel like untouched paradise. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a detailed Malaysia adventure tour, this guide will help you explore the top tourist places in Malaysia, including hidden gems, family attractions, and offbeat escapes.

1. Kuala Lumpur

(Top Tourist Places in Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur)  

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is the heart of Malaysia and a mix of modern vibes and cultural heritage. From glittering skyscrapers to bustling street markets and sacred temples, KL is one of the best tourist attractions in Malaysia.

🏛️ What to Do in Kuala Lumpur

• Petronas Twin Towers – Iconic landmark, Skybridge entry ~RM 80

• Batu Caves – Free entry, open 6 AM – 9 PM

• Merdeka Square – Historical walk, free entry

• KL Tower – Observation deck (RM 49), open 9 AM – 10 PM

• Street food tour in Jalan Alor – Must-try Satay & Nasi Lemak

🎢 Outdoor & Fun Activities in KL and Selangor

• KL Bird Park – RM 63, perfect for families

• Skytrex Adventure Park (Shah Alam) – RM 55–RM 120

• ATV Adventure Park KL – RM 150 per ride

• Bukit Gasing hike – Free, great for nature lovers

🛍️ Best Places to Shop

• Pavilion Mall (luxury brands)

• Central Market (souvenirs & crafts)

• Petaling Street (Chinatown bargains)

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Visit Thean Hou Temple during sunset for a quiet, photogenic view over KL.

2. Langkawi

Langkawi, known as the “Jewel of Kedah,” is one of the top 10 places to visit in Malaysia with family. The island offers beaches, duty-free shopping, and waterfalls.

🎯 Top Attractions

• Langkawi Sky Bridge – RM 6, open 10 AM – 6 PM

• Cable Car Ride – RM 55 per adult

• Pantai Cenang Beach – Free, water sports available

• Underwater World Langkawi – RM 46, kids love it!

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Trek to Temurun Waterfall in the early morning to beat the crowd.

3. Penang

Known for its historic streets and unbeatable food, George Town (Penang) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to visit in Malaysia.

🍜 Must-Do

• Street art walk in George Town

• Kek Lok Si Temple – Free, open 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

• Penang Hill & Railway – RM 12, panoramic views

• Try Char Kway Teow and Penang Laksa!

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Escape to Balik Pulau for a quiet countryside vibe and durian farms.

4. Cameron Highlands

Located in Pahang, this cool-climate hill station is ideal for families and couples. Perfect for strawberry picking, tea plantation tours, and jungle treks.

🚶‍♂️ Things to Do

• BOH Tea Estate Tour – Free

• Mossy Forest Walk – Entry RM 30

• Strawberry Farms – Pick-your-own options available

• Butterfly Garden – RM 7 entry

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Stay overnight in Tanah Rata for peaceful evenings and great food!

5. Perhentian Islands

This tropical haven is one of the best adventure places in Malaysia for snorkeling and scuba diving.

🐠 Activities

• Scuba diving – RM 100 to RM 300 per dive

• Kayaking & snorkeling tours – RM 50–100

• Beach camping – RM 40 per night

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Snorkel around Shark Point for a thrilling but safe underwater experience.

6. Malacca

A blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture, Malacca is one of the most unique places to visit in Malaysia for culture buffs.

🏰 Must-Visit

• A Famosa Fort – Free

• St. Paul’s Hill & Church – Free, panoramic city views

• Jonker Street Night Market – Food & souvenirs galore

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Take the Melaka River Cruise after sunset (RM 25) for lit-up cityscapes.

7. Genting Highlands

Famous for its casinos, indoor theme parks, and luxury resorts, Genting is a family favorite and great for a Malaysia adventure tour.

🎢 Attractions

• SkyWorlds Theme Park – RM 151 per adult

• Casino de Genting – Adults only

• Chin Swee Temple – Free, via cable car

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Stay at Resort World Awana for lush views and golf.

8. Taman Negara

Malaysia’s oldest national park, and a top pick among Malaysia offbeat places to visit, great for wildlife, canopy walks, and jungle treks.

🐾 Activities

• Canopy Walkway – RM 5 entry

• Night Jungle Trek – RM 30 with guide

• Boat ride to Lata Berkoh Falls – RM 80 per boat

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Join a local Orang Asli tribe tour to learn about their lifestyle.

9. Johor Bahru

Perfect for those seeking tourist places in Malaysia near Singapore. It’s a fun stopover city with amusement parks and cultural sites.

🏰 What to See

• LEGOLAND Malaysia – RM 189 per adult

• Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque – Free, beautiful Victorian-style mosque

• Johor Premium Outlets – Shopping galore!

🏞️ Hidden Tip

Check weekday ticket offers on LEGOLAND for big discounts.

10. Ipoh

Malaysia Tourist Places Map

Hidden Places in Malaysia – Offbeat & Underrated Gems

These are the unique places to visit in Malaysia that most tourists overlook, perfect for photography, nature lovers, and quiet getaways.

🌾 Sekinchan, Selangor

A peaceful coastal village famous for its endless green paddy fields, fresh seafood, and bird-watching. It’s one of the most offbeat places in Malaysia and a top pick for eco-tourism.

• ✅ Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November (rice planting or harvesting)

• 🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (paddy fields)

• 🕙 Timings: Open all day

• 📍 Nearby: Sekinchan Wishing Tree, Ah Ma House (traditional snacks museum)

• 🧺 Hidden Tip: Dine at Jiann Chyi Seafood Restaurant for fresh and affordable catches of the day.

Kapas Island, Terengganu

A lesser-known island known for white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. No cars, no noise — only nature and waves.

• ✅ Best Time to Visit: March to October (island closes in monsoon)

• 🚤 How to Reach: 15-minute boat ride from Marang Jetty (RM 30 round trip)

• 🏖️ Activities: Snorkeling (RM 25–50), kayaking, beach camping (from RM 30/night)

• 🕙 Entry: Free (beaches are public)

• 🧺 Hidden Tip: Stay overnight in a chalet and stargaze on the beach, no light pollution!

Kuala Selangor

Located 1.5 hours from KL, it’s famous for its glowing fireflies and natural mangroves, a top unique place to visit in Malaysia with family.

• ✅ Top Activities:

  • Fireflies Cruise (Kampung Kuantan): RM 20/person, 7:30 PM–10:30 PM

  • Bukit Melawati Hill: Free, Monkey feeding, lighthouse, open 9 AM–6 PM

  • Sky Mirror Tour (Sasaran Beach): RM 80–100/person, boat departs based on tides

• 🧺 Hidden Tip: Book the fireflies tour on a new moon night for maximum glow.

Hidden Places in KL

KL isn’t just malls and towers, it hides eco-parks and historic villages right in the city!

1. Taman Tugu Eco Forest Park

• 🌳 Entry: Free

• 🕙 Open: 7 AM – 6:30 PM

• 🚶 Trails: 2–3 km jungle treks, birdwatching spots

• 🧺 Hidden Tip: Great for early morning walks and weekend family picnics

2. Bukit Tabur (Taman Melawati)

• 🚶 Famous for sunrise treks with skyline views

• Entry: Free, but restricted after accidents — check safety updates

• Difficulty: Moderate to hard, local guide recommended

• 🧺 Hidden Tip: Hike only with proper shoes and early morning (before 9 AM)

3. Kampung Baru

• 🕌 Traditional Malay village with 100+ years of history

• Best for: Evening food trail (Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa, Satay stalls)

• Entry: Free, open access

Places to Visit in Malaysia in 3 Days (Short Trip Plan)

Pressed for time? This Malaysia 3-day itinerary gives you the best highlights while balancing food, culture, and nature.

🗓️ Day 1 – Kuala Lumpur: City Icons & Street Food

🏙️ Morning

• Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck

  • 🎟️ Entry: RM 80 (adults), RM 33 (children)

  • ⏰ 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (closed Mondays)

🕌 Midday

• Batu Caves – Iconic Hindu temple in a limestone hill

  • Entry: Free

  • ⏰ Open: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

  • Tip: Avoid afternoons — climb 272 steps early morning

🍜 Evening

• Jalan Alor Night Food Street

  • Free Entry

  • ⏰ Best from 6:00 PM to midnight

  • Must Try: Satay, Char Kway Teow, Durian ice cream

🧺 Hidden Tip: Watch the KL skyline from Heli Lounge Bar (no cover charge before 9 PM).

🗓️ Day 2 – Genting Highlands or Putrajaya Day Trip

Option A: Genting Highlands – Cool Escape & Theme Parks

• 🎡 SkyWorlds Theme Park – RM 151 adult, RM 128 child

• 🚠 Awana Skyway Cable Car – RM 10 one-way

• 🕙 Open: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Option B: Putrajaya – Architecture & Calmness

• 🕌 Visit Putra Mosque (Free entry, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

• 🚤 Take a Lake Cruise – RM 30/person

• 📸 Best for Islamic architecture, bridges & lakeside photos

🧺 Hidden Tip: Visit Genting’s Chin Swee Temple via cable car — it’s free and photogenic.

🗓️ Day 3 – KL Nature & Selangor Adventure

🌲 Morning

• Skytrex Adventure (Shah Alam)

  • Obstacle climbing & ziplining

  • 🎟️ Entry: RM 55–RM 120

  • ⏰ 9 AM – 6 PM

  • Pre-booking required

🐦 Noon

• KL Bird Park (Lake Gardens)

  • 🎟️ Entry: RM 63 (adults), RM 42 (kids)

  • ⏰ 9 AM – 6 PM

  • Over 3,000 birds in open aviary

🌇 Evening

• Sunset at Thean Hou Temple

  • Entry: Free

  • ⏰ Open: 8 AM – 10 PM

  • View the skyline and glowing lanterns at dusk

🧺 Hidden Tip: Combine this day with a visit to Taman Tugu for a morning forest walk if skipping Skytrex.

✈️ Malaysia Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to Malaysia? Whether you’re exploring the modern charm of Kuala Lumpur or diving into island life in Langkawi, these essential Malaysia travel tips for first-time visitors will help you have a smooth, enjoyable, and budget-friendly journey.

1. Malaysia Visa & Entry Requirements

Malaysia offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access for many countries including India, Singapore, the US, UK, and Australia (for up to 30 or 90 days depending on your passport).

• ✅ Always carry a valid passport with at least 6 months validity

• ✅ Keep a copy of your return flight & accommodation booking ready for immigration

• ✅ Apply online if you’re eligible for the eVisa (for Indian & Chinese passport holders)

🧳 Hidden Tip: KLIA2 airport has free Wi-Fi and luggage storage if you arrive early and want to explore before check-in.

2. Malaysia Currency & Money Tips

The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is essential for food stalls, rural areas, and taxis.

• 💱 1 USD ≈ 4.6 MYR | 1 INR ≈ 0.055 MYR

• 🏧 ATMs are available widely, but use ones inside malls or banks to avoid skimming

• 💵 Money changers offer better rates than airports (try Mid Valley Mall or Bukit Bintang)

🧺 Hidden Tip: Use apps like Wise or BigPay card to avoid high foreign exchange fees.

3. Getting Around Malaysia

Public transport is efficient and affordable.

• 🚇 Use MRT, LRT, and Monorail in Kuala Lumpur (RM 1–3 per ride)

• 🚕 Grab app is the local Uber — cheap, safe, and cashless

• 🚐 Long-distance buses (like to Penang, Melaka) are reliable and comfy (use BusOnlineTicket)

🧺 Hidden Tip: Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM) in KL to skip traffic congestion and packed trains.

4. Malaysia Food Safety & Eating Tips

Malaysia is a food paradise! But be cautious:

• ✅ Drink only bottled water

• ✅ Street food is usually safe — pick stalls with long lines

• ✅ Try Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, Laksa, and Teh Tarik

🧺 Hidden Tip: Most food courts let you order at different stalls but pay only once — convenient for groups!

5. Malaysian Culture & Local Etiquette

Malaysia is multi-ethnic: predominantly Malay Muslims, with large Chinese and Indian communities.

• 👗 Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or temples

• 👟 Remove shoes before entering religious places

• 🤝 It’s polite to greet with a soft handshake or a slight bow

🧺 Hidden Tip: Fridays (especially noon–2 PM) are prayer times; avoid mosque visits during this period.

6. Connectivity & SIM Cards

Stay connected with local 4G SIMs — cheap and fast!

• 📱 Best providers: Hotlink (Maxis), Digi, and Celcom

• 💵 Cost: RM 20–30 for 7–10 days with 10–20 GB

• 📍 Buy SIM at airport kiosks or 7-Eleven stores

🧺 Hidden Tip: Use AirAsia’s roaming eSIM if you’re visiting other Southeast Asian countries on the same trip.

7. Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is a year-round destination, but climate varies:

• ✅ West coast (KL, Penang, Langkawi): Best from November to April

• ✅ East coast (Perhentian Islands): March to September (closed in monsoon)

• ✅ Highlands (Cameron): Cool and refreshing all year round

🧺 Hidden Tip: June and September are shoulder seasons — fewer crowds and better deals.