Best Travel Destinations in Malaysia: Selected by Local and Updated 2023

lacamisa.my | November 4, 2023

Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country located on the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo, is a wonderful blend of cultures, cuisines, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to serene beaches, lush rainforests to charming heritage towns, Malaysia offers a myriad of experiences to its visitors. Let’s explore the best travel destinations in Malaysia, covering all 13 states!

Kuala Lumpur Travel Destinations

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, is a cosmopolitan hub known for its iconic skyline dominated by the Petronas Twin Towers. The city is a melting pot of cultures with numerous attractions such as the Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, and the bustling street markets of Jalan Alor.

Petronas Twin TowersMerdeka SquareSuria KLCC
Batu CavesIslamic Arts Museum Malaysia Chinatown
Aquaria KLCCKuala Lumpur Bird Park Thean Hou Temple
Saloma Link BridgeJalan AlorKL Tower

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Penang Travel Destinations

Penang, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, is famous for its rich history, vibrant street art, and delicious street food. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgetown is a must-visit with its colonial buildings and unique Peranakan culture.

Dark Mansion MuseumThe Top KOMTARChew Jetty
Little IndiaChinatownPadang Brown
Penang Street ArtAquarium Batu MaungPenang House of Music
Entopia by Penang Butterfly FarmPenang National ParkKhoo Kongsi
Batu Ferringhi BeachTropical Spice GardenBatu Ferringhi Night Market
Fort CornwallisKopi HutanLittle Village
Wonderfood MuseumUpside Down MuseumPenang Botanic Gardens
The Habitat Penang HillKek Lok SiBali Hai Penang
Clan Jetties, GeorgetownGlass Museum PenangOlive Tree Hotel
Pinang Peranakan Mansion

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Johor Travel Destinations

Johor, located at the southern tip of the peninsula, is known for its beautiful national parks and exciting theme parks, including Legoland Malaysia and the Angry Birds Activity Park. Johor Bahru, the state capital, offers a mix of modern shopping malls and heritage attractions.

Legoland Malaysia ResortJohor Bahru Old Chinese TempleJohor Bahru City Square
Desaru CoastSultan Abu Bakar State MosqueTanjung Piai National Park
Kota Tinggi WaterfallKukup IslandPulau Rawa
Endau-Rompin National ParkDonhu Jurassic Garden

Selangor Travel Destinations

Selangor surrounds the capital city and is a state of contrasts. From the modern cityscape of Petaling Jaya to the traditional charms of Kuala Selangor, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss a visit to the Batu Caves and the Firefly Park.

Hussin Fauzi FarmFarm in the Cityi-City Shah Alam
Sunway LagoonSepang International CircuitRoyal Selangor Visitor Centre
Sky Mirror Kuala SelangorMorib BeachSekinchan
Batu CavesForest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM)

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Sabah Travel Destinations

Sabah, on the island of Borneo, is a paradise for nature lovers. Home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia, and the stunning coral reefs of Sipadan Island, Sabah offers a range of outdoor adventures.

Kinabalu National ParkSipadan IslandSepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine ParkDanum Valley Conservation AreaLabuan Island
Mabul IslandTawau Hills ParkGomantong Caves
Mari Mari Cultural Village

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Sarawak Travel Destinations

Sarawak is another gem on Borneo, known for its diverse ecosystems and fascinating tribal cultures. Explore the vast caves of Gunung Mulu National Park and visit the longhouses of the Iban tribe.

Bako National ParkSemenggoh Wildlife CentreSantubong Peninsula
KuchingSarawak Cultural VillageSarawak River Cruise
Gunung Mulu National ParkNiah National ParkSarawak Museum
Matang Wildlife Centre

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Pahang Travel Destinations

Pahang is home to the famous hill stations of Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands. Enjoy the cool climate, tea plantations, and strawberry farms of Cameron Highlands, or try your luck at the casinos in Genting.

Cameron HighlandsCherating BeachTasik Chini
Genting HighlandsSungai LembingLata Berkoh
Taman Negara National ParkPulau TenggolKuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary
Tioman IslandJapanese VillageButterfly Wonderland
Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences

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Perak Travel Destinations

Perak offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visit the royal town of Kuala Kangsar, explore the limestone caves of Ipoh, or relax at the tranquil Pangkor Island.

IpohGua TempurungMatang Mangrove Forest Reserve
Pangkor IslandKellie’s CastleOrangutan Island
Kuala KangsarBelum RainforestKuala Sepetang
Taiping

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Putrajaya Travel Destinations

Putrajaya, recognized as the ‘Administrative Capital of Malaysia,’ is renowned for its modern administrative infrastructure and beautifully landscaped city planning. The city is also home to the scenic Putrajaya Lake, offering recreational activities and a serene environment for residents and visitors alike.

Wetland Studios Putrajaya Seri Gemilang BridgeAyer 8
Cruise Tasik PutrajayaSeri Saujana Bridge Putrajaya Night Market
IOI City FarmSeri Wawasan Bridge  Tangga Putrajaya Steps
District 21  Millennium MonumentPutrajaya Challenge Park
Anjung Floria Garden Maharaja KaraokeSecret Garden
China-Malaysia Friendship GardenGlamping @ Wetland Putrajaya (GLOW)Putra Square
Bubbles & BeansIOI City Mall PutrajayaPutra Mosque
Putrajaya LakeAlamanda Shopping CentrePerdana Putra
Taman Saujana HijauPutrajaya Botanical GardenFloria Beach
Taman Putra PerdanaMoroccan Pavilion (Astaka Morocco)Masjid Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin (Masjid Besi)
Putrajaya Equestrian ParkPutrajaya Food TruckSevenseas International Karaoke

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Kedah Travel Destinations

Kedah, known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Malaysia’, is famous for its paddy fields. The state is also home to Langkawi, a popular beach destination with stunning landscapes and duty-free shopping.

Langkawi IslandUlu Muda Eco ParkPaddy Museum
Alor SetarPedu LakePantai Merdeka
Gunung JeraiKuala Kedah FortBujang Valley Archaeological Museum

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Negeri Sembilan Travel Destinations

Negeri Sembilan is known for its unique Minangkabau architecture and the serene beach town of Port Dickson. Visit the state museum to learn about the local culture and history.

SerembanJeram ToiTampin
Port Dickson BeachJelita Ostrich FarmPedas Hot Springs
Kuala PilahUlu Bendul Recreational ParkPantai Hills Orchard Resort
Seri MenantiLexis Port Dickson

Kelantan Travel Destinations

Kelantan, located in the northeast, is a cradle of Malay culture. Visit the traditional markets of Kota Bharu, or explore the lush rainforests of Taman Negara National Park.

Kota BharuWat PhotivihanSiti Khadijah Market
Islamic Museum of MalaysiaKampung Laut MosqueMuseum of Royal Traditions and Customs
Kampung KraftanganGunung Stong State ParkKuala Koh National Park
Pantai Cahaya Bulan (PCB)

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Terengganu Travel Destinations

Terengganu boasts some of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia, including Redang and Perhentian. The state is also known for its turtle conservation efforts and traditional boat-making industry.

Redang IslandKenyir LakeKapas Island
Perhentian IslandsIslamic Heritage ParkBatu Buruk Beach
Kuala TerengganuTerengganu State Museum
Taman Negara National ParkSekayu Waterfall

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Melaka Travel Destinations

Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic city known for its colonial-era landmarks, Peranakan culture, and the famous Jonker Street Night Market.

A FamosaMelaka River CruiseBaba-Nyonya Heritage Museum
Jonker StreetCheng Hoon Teng TempleMelaka Sultanate Palace Museum
StadthuysMaritime MuseumStraits Chinese Jewelry Museum
Melaka Zoo

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About the Author

Misa @Lacamisa.my

As a local living in Malaysia, my passion lies in traversing this wonderful country, uncovering one destination after another. Traveling is more than a hobby for me; it's a journey into new cultures, traditions, and undiscovered corners. Another key part of my travels includes enjoying the culinary delights, ranging from simple street food to delicious dishes in upscale restaurants. My ultimate goal is to share these experiences with you by providing a comprehensive guide, complete resources and exclusive discounts for traveling in Malaysia. Stay tuned for more insights and stories as I continue to explore and share the wonders of Malaysia.

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