Personal Recommendations for Must-Visit Spots in Malaysia
I've compiled a selection of both the classic tourist attractions and my personal favorite spots in Malaysia. I hope this guide helps you in planning your trip.
Around Kuala Lumpur
Petronas Twin Towers
Location: KLCC
The Petronas Twin Towers are the symbol of Kuala Lumpur. Popular viewing spots include the Traders Hotel Skybar, KLCC Park, the front of the Twin Towers (at the intersection), and Saloma Bridge. It’s efficient to visit these spots in the listed order or reverse. Since the opening of W Hotel, many celebrities have been taking photos at the hotel’s WET Deck bar.
Tickets are required to visit the upper floors of the Twin Towers. It's best to purchase tickets well in advance, as they often sell out days before. While the view might not be exceptional, the experience of going up the Twin Towers is irreplaceable.
Traders Hotel Skybar
KLCC Park
Putra Mosque
Location: Putrajaya
Putrajaya, the administrative capital, is home to the iconic Putra Mosque, known as the Pink Mosque. It is a must-see, located next to the Prime Minister's Office. Additionally, a cruise on Putrajaya Lake is a good optional activity. Within walking distance, the Silver Mosque and the Supreme Court make for a great combination of sights.
While there are not many tourist spots, the route options are endless. A recommended route is to take a Grab to the Silver Mosque/Supreme Court and then walk to the Putra Mosque. This allows you to fully experience the atmosphere of Putrajaya.
For photography enthusiasts, KELAB TASIK on the opposite shore is also a great spot for capturing stunning shots.
Batu Caves
Location: Selangor
Batu Caves, a Hindu holy site in Malaysia, is a classic KL attraction. Many visitors are Indian-Malaysians, giving a unique Indian atmosphere. The colorful stairs make it an Instagram favorite. The Hindu festival Thaipusam is celebrated with great fervor, attracting many visitors from both within and outside Malaysia.
Merdeka Square
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Merdeka Square is where Malaysia declared independence from Britain. Many tourist spots are within walking distance, making it an efficient sightseeing area. Nearby attractions include the confluence of the rivers that gave KL its name, the I LOVE KL monument at KL City Gallery, Masjid Jamek, the National Mosque, the Islamic Arts Museum, the old KL Railway Station, Central Market, and Chinatown.
Vertigo@Banyan Tree Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Location: Kuala Lumpur
The rooftop bar at Banyan Tree Hotel offers panoramic views of KL, including the Petronas Twin Towers, KL Tower, the new Merdeka Tower, and The Exchange 106. It’s a must-visit spot for guests visiting KL.
Chow Kit Market
Location: Kuala Lumpur
KL's fresh food market is worth a visit for its unique sights, including cow heads. It’s best to visit in the morning. The Petronas Twin Towers are also visible from the market, making it a great photo spot.
Thean Hou Temple
Location: Kuala Lumpur
The largest Chinese temple in KL, Thean Hou Temple, is a must-see in multicultural Malaysia, along with the Pink Mosque and Batu Caves. It’s popular during Chinese New Year and is also a favorite portrait photography spot.
Zoo Negara
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia's national zoo offers a unique perspective on animal management and environments compared to other countries. It’s a more engaging alternative to typical sightseeing and is easily accessible.
KL Tower
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Alongside the Petronas Twin Towers, KL Tower has been a landmark since the 90s. While it previously offered a limited view, the recent development of the surrounding area and the completion of Merdeka Tower have enhanced its appeal.
Bukit Bintang
Location: Kuala Lumpur
KL's premier shopping and entertainment district. Key attractions include Pavilion, Jalan Alor street food, and Lot10's ISETAN, which has gained popularity with the opening of Don Quijote and its excellent Japanese food floor.
Pavilion KL
Jalan Alor
Blue Mosque
Location: Selangor
Extremely popular with Japanese tourists. Visits require participation in the mosque’s free guided tour, which allows for undisturbed photos. Japanese-speaking guides are available and often sing Japanese songs.
Central Market
Location: Kuala Lumpur
A classic souvenir spot for Malaysian snacks, crafts, and goods. Originally a fresh market during British rule, it’s near Chinatown and accessible from Independence Square. Also known as Pasar Seni, it’s named after the nearest station.
Chinatown
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, known as Petaling Street, is a vibrant and bustling area famous for its lively street markets, diverse food stalls, and traditional shops. It's a great place to experience local culture, enjoy delicious street food, and shop for souvenirs. In my opinion, BookXcess@REXKL is one of the top photo spot inKL.
Taman Connaught Night Market
Location: Kuala Lumpur (Wednesdays Only)
Held every Wednesday in Cheras, this night market features an impressive array of stalls stretching 2 km. It's crowded and hot but offers a fun experience for everyone. Visit if timing allows.
Royal Selangor Visitor Center
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Explore the history and production of Malaysia’s renowned pewter brand, Royal Selangor, for free. Japanese audio guides are available. Understanding the process enhances appreciation of the products, which can be purchased at the exit. Paid workshops offer the chance to create and take home a handmade piece.
Malacca
Location: Malacca
Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is Malaysia's historic city with remnants from European colonial times. It’s easily accessible from KL by a 2-3 hour bus ride. Most attractions, like the famous St. Paul’s Church, are within walking distance from Dutch Square. Jonker Street is also a highlight, bustling with shops and a night market.
Dutch Square
St.Paul's Church
Genting Highlands
Location: Genting Highlands
Known for its casino and amusement park, Genting Highlands is a highland resort about an hour by bus from KL. The Chin Swee Cave Temple, accessible by cable car, is an interesting visit with a large Buddha visible from the Starbucks inside.
Chin Swee Caves Temple
Masjid Sri Sendayan
Location: Seremban
A newly built mosque in Seremban, often referred to as Malaysia's Taj Mahal. Its stunning architecture makes it one of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques. Despite being in an isolated location, it's worth a visit.
Sam Poh Tong Temple
Location: Ipoh
Ipoh is known for its Chinese temples, and Sam Poh Tong Temple stands out as a spiritual and photogenic spot. Ipoh’s Grab availability makes it easy to explore the city and its various temples.
Teluk Cempedak
Location: Kuantan
A beach admired by "Jujutsu Kaisen" character Nanamin. While not the most beautiful, its convenience with nearby cafes and facilities like Starbucks, McDonald's, and KFC, along with a scenic walk and monkeys, makes it a great spot.
Tea Gardens in Cameron Highlands
Location: Cameron Highlands
Famous for tea plantations like BOH Tea and Cameron Valley Tea, this highland area is about a 4-5 hour bus ride from KL. Enjoy tea and sweets surrounded by lush tea gardens. It’s advisable to hire a taxi for easier access, as Grab is not recommended.
BOH Tea Plantation
Cameron Valley Tea Plantation
Dayang Bunting Lake
Location: Langkawi
Langkawi's boat tours offer a chance to see eagles, particularly at Dayang Bunting Lake. This spot provides a more personal experience compared to the famous Kilim Geoforest Park.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Location: Penang
The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si Temple is a must-visit in Penang, featuring grand architecture and significant landmarks like the large Kuan Yin statue.
Penang Hill
Location: Penang
A scenic spot in Penang accessible by cable car. The view from the hilltop is best enjoyed during the day. It’s a pleasant escape from the city.
Blue Mansion
Location: Penang
A heritage hotel in Penang that offers a luxurious stay with historical ambiance. Even non-guests can visit, but staying overnight offers an exceptional experience.
Sarawak Culture Village
Location: Kuching
Experience Borneo's indigenous cultures and traditions at this village in Sarawak. It offers a glimpse into the lives of Borneo's native people, with engaging shows and activities.
Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
Location: Kuching
A sanctuary for wild orangutans, offering visitors a chance to see these endangered animals up close. The orangutans, though wild, are familiar with humans due to regular feeding and care from the center.
Bako National Park
Location: Kuching
Home to the endangered proboscis monkeys, Bako National Park offers basic facilities for a rugged nature experience. It’s advisable to hire a guide for a safer and more informative visit.
Gunung Gading National Park / Poring Hot Spring
Location: Kuching / Kota Kinabalu
These parks are among the few places where the rare Rafflesia flower can be seen. Though sightings are not guaranteed, both parks offer other attractions and natural beauty, making the visit worthwhile regardless.
