Malaysia - a country of multi-culture, dramatic landscapes, and colonial architecture is one of the most prominent tourist places to visit in South Asia.
The tropical ambience and colonial past fuses with contemporary essence in its stunning cities and each has a different vibe and experience to present. While you are planning a trip to Malaysia, don’t just focus on Kuala Lumpur for a city experience. Along with Kuala Lumpur, there are several exquisite townships and cities to visit that showcase a different version of Malaysia. Check out these five amazing cities in Malaysia that you ought to visit at least once on your Malaysia trip.
Kuala Lumpur
Let’s start with the capital city of Malaysia -
Kuala Lumpur. The city is featured in almost all Malaysian tours. The largest
cosmopolitan in the country, Kuala Lumpur is home to the tallest twin towers in
the world - The Petronas Towers. Located in Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
is a potpourri of Asian and International culture and cuisine, and the essence
is reflected in its ambience. The modern structures are interspersed with
ancient temples, serene parks, colonial ruins, and ancient Malay wonders. When
it comes to getting an overview of Malaysia in a short time, Kuala Lumpur is
the most convenient.
Not-to-miss Kuala Lumpur attractions and experiences
- Visit the iconic landmark- Petronas Twin Towers.
- Discover Batu Caves located a few distances away from Kuala Lumpur
- Delve into local flavours such as Nasi Kandar and satay at Alor Street.
- Shop till you drop at Central Markel and Suria KLCC.
- For those looking for Malaysia activities and adventures, visit the National Zoo of Malaysia, Bird Parks, and Butterfly park to encounter wildlife, and head to Genting Highlands and Sunway Lagoon Park for amazing fun times!
Malacca
A
historical destination, Malacca has a unique blend of Portuguese, British,
Chinese, and Dutch influences. Tagged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the
destination is a potpourri of various cultural heritage. Being a coastal city,
located in the Southwest Malaysian Peninsula, Malacca also allures visitors
with sprawling beach shores. The adventure quotient is also quite high as this
Malaysian city offers a variety of them.
Activities to explore in Malacca
- Explore the coastal city and its historic sights on a bike tour.
- Hop on a sunset cruise and sail down Melaka River taking in breathtaking sceneries.
- Take in 360-degree panoramas of Melacca city from Menara Taming Sari.
- Spend fun times at A’Famosa Resort.
- Explore Jonker Street.
- Go horse-riding at Klebang beach.
- Sign up for ceramic classes and fashion your own signature piece of pottery.
- Try out Nyonya dishes - a unique cuisine of the land.
George Town
The
ethnically rich, colourful city of George town is nestled in Penang in the Malay
Peninsula. This is the second-largest and most populous city in Malaysia and is
another UNESCO World Heritage site to visit in the country. The city is
engulfed in a colonial vibe that is different from that of Kuala Lumpur. When
you visit, you will see a culturally and artistically rich township. Although
George Town may seem like a very small township, it has quite a few
extraordinary experiences and attractions that are different from other
Malaysian cities.
Absolute must-do in George Town
- Step back in time and explore the historical buildings of colonial times.
- Explore the street art at Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Acheh streets.
- Visit Penang Hill.
- Stroll on pristine Batu Ferringhi beach.
- Go Al-fresco dining or take a foot tour.
Kuching
Deviate
from the Malay Peninsula and step into eastern Malaysia where Kuching awaits to
show its splendour. Located on Borneo island, Kuching is the most popular city
in Eastern Malaysia where you can explore untouched wilderness sceneries and
nature adventures. This township has picturesque tropical settings and is an
idyllic place to escape the modern world and refresh in nature’s lap. The
surroundings have some amazing nature reserves that offer you a chance to have
a tropical wilderness expedition and watch some exotic Malaysian wildlife. This
is one city that will tempt you to never go back to your real world.
Discover amazing experiences
- Re-connect with nature at Bako National Park and Gunung Gading National Park.
- Watch Orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
- Take an excursion to Lakei Island to view stunning sunsets.
- Experience turtle hatching at Satang Island.
- Stroll on the tranquil, uncrowded beaches of Damai or enjoy a serene evening at the Kuching waterfront.
Ipoh
If you are
interested in exploring Malaysia's Cameron Highlands, this is where you should
go. Located in the northwest of the Malay Peninsula, in the province of Perak,
Ipoh is known for its rustic charm. The place is scattered with remnants of
colonial pasts and the natural scenery will entice you with beaches, and limestone
caves. The whole city has a blend of modern and time-worn structures that look
absolutely captivating for onlookers.
Ipoh’s highlights
- Wander and explore unique temples such as the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple and Perak Tong Cave Temple.
- Explore Chinese shops, vibrant Buddhist temples, and food and art lanes.
- Take a trip to Cameron Highlands.
- Enjoy a Heritage Trail where you get to know all the splendours of Ipoh in a nutshell.
- Shop around in Flea Markets.
- Take a hike in Ulu Geroh. If you are lucky, you will get a chance to see the world’s largest flower bloom - Rafflesia.
Tips for travellers visiting Malaysia
- Make sure you have medical and travel insurance for your Malaysian vacation.
- It is vital to know the type of visa required for your trip to Malaysia before you depart. Be sure to follow all the guidelines and specifications in the visa application form to keep your visa from getting rejected.
- Find out when is the best time to visit Malaysia. Considering the country's tropical climate, the heat, humidity, and rain can end up spoiling your vacation if you do not select the right time to travel. You should pack clothes that you wear in layers and an umbrella just in case there is a sudden downpour.
- For the best deals and to avoid disappointments, book your flights and other travel services in advance.
- Malaysia is a relatively budget-friendly destination if you know where to stay and what to do. Malaysia provides excellent public transportation at a very low price, and there are plenty of restaurants and food markets at a mid-range price that will tantalize your taste buds without burning a hole in your wallet.
- In Malaysia, English is widely spoken, but it is never a bad idea to get to know the local language. This can be very useful when you are travelling to interior townships in Malaysia. You can learn a few phrases in the local language that can help you on your travels.
Conclusion
Malaysia is a tropical South Asian destination consisting of two landmasses - the Malay Peninsular and Borneo Islands. While planning a Malaysian vacation, most visitors consider Kuala Lumpur to be the sole highlight as a township in Malaysia. Nevertheless, this is a misconception. Beyond Kuala Lumpur are several cities that offer a unique perspective on Malaysia's cultural diversity. Aside from these five cities, there are numerous other enthralling towns in Malaysia such as Kota Kinabalu, Putrajaya, and Johor Bahru which represent a wide range of perspectives about Malaysia and are incredibly unique experiences. Combining the cities during your Malaysian vacation provides you with a comprehensive and unforgettable experience
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