Malaysia is a gorgeous Asian country in the Southeast of the Malay Peninsula and Borneo island, with over 30 million people. It is also globally known for its beaches, rain forests, and a rich mix of cultural influences that make it one of the most diverse countries in the world. There is no shortage of cool sights or things to do in Malaysia. However, to make your life easier, we have gone through the most significant spots and compiled this Malaysia wonders mini-guide you should read if this country is on your list. These places include islands, natural wonders in Malaysia, and cities that will make your Malaysian adventure not only one of the most fun you have ever had but complete. You may never want to leave.
The Malaysia Islands You Need To Visit
You will find these 6 amazing islands and archipelagos the absolute highlight of your Malaysia adventures. Get ready to enjoy the sights and the unique atmosphere that they provide.
1. Langkawi
Langkawi archipelago, comprised of 104 islands in the Andaman sea, is known as the Jewel of Kedah because of its natural peace and beauty. Here you will find beautiful beaches and wonderful restaurants filled with live music, the perfect setting to watch the sunset. You may also enjoy exploring the interior of the main island by cable car and walk along the sky bridge at the end of it. Check out why this archipelago could be the best of Malaysia here.
2. Perhentian Islands
These beautiful coral-fringed islands are just half an hour away from the East coast of Malaysia by boat. If you wish to experience nature or simply want to go snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming, then the Perhentian Islands are the place to be.
The best time to visit is from March to late October due to the eastern monsoon that makes the sea rough and water currents unsafe for swimming.
3. Pulau Redang
Located not far from the Perhentian Islands, this resort filled island will not only provide you with a relaxing place to stay, but the crystal-clear waters will allow you to see the fish just a short distance from the beach.
Pulau Redang covers 9 Malaysia islands and lies 45km off the coast of Malaysia. Again, the best times to visit are between November and February since the island is also affected by the monsoon from the northern side. Redang is famous for a great view of crystal clear waters with plenty of tropical fish in them and white sandy beaches that stretch far and wide.
4. Tioman
Named the most beautiful island in the world by Time magazine, its white coral reefs are dense and make the place a perfect and exciting spot for scuba diving.
Now, this tiny island is not only a beautiful place to visit but offers you a fun legend that you may hear from the locals. The story says that a beautiful dragon princess created the island when she chose to stop and enjoy the beautiful waters. She decided to stay and provide travelers with comfort and shelter by becoming this beautiful island.
5. Sipadan
Due to environmental protection, visitors and tourists cannot stay on the island overnight, so make sure you plan your visit well before heading there.
Formed by living coral atop of the cone of an extinct volcano, Sipadan is a beautiful place. You can scuba dive here to see the gorgeous turtles and other living creatures along the coast. If you get lucky, you could get to see the schools of barracuda that swim around in large tornado-like formations through its clear waters.
6. Tunku Abudul Rahman (TAR) Marine Park
Named after Malaysia’s very first prime minister, Tunku Abudul Rahman Marine Park is made up of 5 smaller islands: Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug.
Natural Wonders in Malaysia
There are many natural wonders to be discovered in Malaysia, however, we have picked our top 5 Malaysia nature favorites to share with you. Not only are these sights beautiful but you won’t want to miss them during your adventures.
7. Cameron Highlands
The highest point in Malaysia above the sea offers a magnificent view as you can imagine.
Lush green Cameron Highlands, one of the best natural sights in the world, is home to many different animals and several species of flowers. Take into account that travel from place to place is best suited for a car or by train as the area is huge.
8. Taman Negara Rainforest
What could be more enjoyable than a nature walk through one of the oldest rainforests in the world? Located in the Taman Negara national park, you should consider getting a tourist package to access and travel to this awe-inspiring place where it is also possible to spot wildlife as sun bears and Malayan Gaurs.
9. Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Whether you choose to climb Borneo’s tallest mountain or simply explore the various flora species that can be found here, Mount Kinabalu is a great place. There are many different plants that you won’t find anywhere else in the world and will leave you mystified when you reach the highest peak.
The best time to go is summer when temperatures are high as during the cold season, fog and rain can ruin the experience.
10. Lake Kenyir, Terengganu
It is highly recommended that you stay at a resort near Lake Kenyir as the sunrises and sunsets are beautiful. You will also be able to enjoy many different outdoor sports such as kayaking and swimming in these brilliantly blue waters.
11. Mulu Gunung National Park, Sarawak
A Unesco world heritage site, one of the most common activities in Mulu Gunung National Park is exploring its limestone caves. You can even take unguided tours here if you wish to explore on your own. The spot is stunning!
Best Cities to Visit In Malaysia
The cities in Malaysia will provide you with the ability to enjoy various creature habits such as shopping and a wide variety of restaurants. Each city that we have listed will make an amazing addition to your trip.
12. Kuala Lumpur
Popularly known as ‘KL’, this dynamic city has something for everyone, along with some of the world’s cheapest five-star hotels!
Take a city tour in Kuala Lumpur to see the various historical and beautiful sights that are scattered throughout the city. Or, alternatively, explore with your stomach and try the variety of different foods that are available for you to try.
And fear not, Kuala Lumpur is a great metropolis for every Asia lover out there and you won’t be far from paradise either as there are some really cool spots to check out nearby.
13. George Town
The second-largest city in Malaysia and the capital of Penang is a great city full of history, architecture, and art for you to enjoy through simply exploring the streets. Due to its more modern nature, Georgetown is a major tourist spot as there is a great deal of shopping offered as well as more modern and historical features that won’t allow you to get bored while visiting it.
George town was also listed by Unesco as a world heritage site and it is popularly known as the food hub of Malaysia. For those who want to enjoy different types of food from street food, Chinese, Indian and other delicacies, this is the city to be!
14. Malacca
On the Southwest coast, it is the capital city of Malacca state. There, British, Portuguese, and Duch influences help shape Malacca’s rich cultural background.
15. Kuching
Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak in Borneo island, is filled with a mixture of old colonial buildings and modern towers.
16. Sandakan
Sandakan is an excellent spot for anyone into eco-tourism locations as the city is filled with them. Some of those may even allow you to volunteer at one of them so you can experience the rather amazing things they do first hand.
In conclusion, Malaysia is a destination rich in natural features and with a mild climate almost throughout the year that makes it simply perfect for outdoor activities. The sandy beaches and cool waters offer great marine experiences and busy cities, modern life commodities, shopping, and nightlife worth checking out.
Whether you choose to go by yourself or with some company, we urge you to take the leap and head to Malaysia soon! You won’t regret it.
Find out more about the country watching this Malaysia wonders video guide our friends Audrey and Samuel put together:
It is a perfect place to get lost in. I hope to make it to all of them someday.